Kevin Lestradeholds a doctorate Arts et Métiers biomechanics and robotics Arts et Métiers . He founded the companyBYTHEWAVEand approached AMValor in Cluny to manufacture a prototype surfboard for gyms. To meet the start-up's requirements, AMValor called on its teams as well as technical staff and teachers from the Forge team at the Arts et Métiers campus Arts et Métiers Cluny.
The objective of the project
The BYTHEWAVE project involves designing and building a wave-shaped frame to support a suspended surfboard and the weight of a person standing on the board. The initial idea is to enable people to learn to surf outside the summer months, in a gym. The aim of this setup is to experience the sensation of gliding without being on the water, in order to learn the correct positions and work on the surfer's balance.
Why did AMValor Cluny call on the FORGE team?
The FORGE team has all the skills and experience required to produce large-scale mechanically welded assemblies (several meters in length and height) in the person of Christophe Priolet-Lefebvre, technician. He is proficient in coated electrode, MIG/MAG, and TIG welding processes and has extensive experience in producing this type of assembly. In addition to the necessary welding skills, large assemblies are very sensitive to deformation caused by any welding process, and this must be anticipated in order to achieve the desired final dimensions.
What were the design processes?
The conceptual idea led to the design of an initial structure. This was tested using digital simulation by Serge Borecki, an engineer at AMValor. This led to improvements in the frame, resulting in a more rigid structure that could withstand static and dynamic conditions (taking into account the weight and movement of a surfer). Another constraint of the project was to ensure that the structure could be dismantled and transported in a van.
After approval by the client, the plans were sent to the Forge workshop for the frame to be built. Once completed, the frame was tested and approved by BYTHEWAVE in real-life conditions at the Forge workshop, using a surfboard and local apprentice surfers!
