Development of a methodology to predict and control dynamic properties of backcountry skis

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Genuine Guide Gear (G3) is an independently owned and operated manufacturer of industry-leading gear for backcountry skiing and snowboarding. For 18 years, G3 has been committed to produce innovative equipment and has recently introduced significant amounts of carbon fiber composite to their product lines. The use of carbon allows for weight savings and increased stiffness, thereby improving the performance-to-weight ratio. However, materials with high stiffness values generally have low damping ability, and carbon-based skis are prone to be less forgiving in firmer snow conditions. Soft snow tends to dampen ski vibrations but icy surfaces and hard snow induce severe oscillations that affect the skier's control and balance. G3 is actively researching a methodology to predict the mechanical properties of carbon-based skis and strategies to control dynamic properties and improve damping performance at high frequencies. Ski weight is a significant issue, therefore the damping solution must not increase weight and must be cost feasible to take to production. Genuine Guide Gear has extensive expertise in the design of composite skis but has limited resources to develop its expertise on damping in carbon-reinforced composite materials. The company has requested the assistance of the Composites Research Network (CRN), at the University of British Columbia, to offer guidance in this field.