Snap-On x SCADPro Collaboration
For this collaboration, Snap-on came to SCAD with a project to design a line of cycling tools for Bahco, one of their European brand divisions. In ten weeks, our team of 17 students researched, designed, and presented to Snap-on 13 new tool concepts focused on improving the experience of cyclists and bike mechanics alike.
Group Project
Completed for Snap-On | 2020
Defining the Opportunity
As innovations within the cycling world have made bikes faster and lighter, the tools used to work on these bikes have remained largely untouched. Our team of 17 students worked to research and develop unique tool solutions to improve the experience of mechanics and cyclists.
My Role
As part of the industrial design team, my role in this project included conducting secondary research, sketching and concept development, and CAD modeling and rendering.
Research
Interviewing
The team visited a few local bike shops and spoke to mechanics and cyclists to understand the pain points experienced while using cycling tools.
"I appreciate that you guys are coming to talk to us. We really need this - cycling tools have been overlooked and improving our tools will make our job so much better!
- Ben, Shop Mechanic
Ideation
Sketching
With interview data to reference, the industrial design team went through multiple rounds of sketch ideation with feedback from Snap-On along the way.
Prototyping
Iterating
Once we determined final design directions, we did multiple rounds of 3D printing to test out different concepts and form explorations for each tool.
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Testing
After each round of 3D prints, we held usability testing sessions with cyclists and mechanics to get our prototypes directly into the hands of the users and collect feedback to continue iterating on solutions.
Final Designs
2 in 1 Tire Lever
Cyclists typically carry two tire levers to help remove the tire from the rim and in case one breaks. This 2 in 1 option saves space without compromising functionality.
2 in 1 design takes up half the space
Raised logo provides extra grip
Friction lock
Plastic tip prevents the lever from damaging bike rims
Rubber overmold grip
Spoke hook
Mechanic Tire Lever
Mechanics typically use the same tire levers as cyclists, which prioritize saving space on a ride over comfort and ergonomics. This tire lever is designed specifically for mechanics to be more comfortable during prolonged use.
Spoke Wrench
This new take on a traditional-style spoke wrench features a brace on the back of the wrench to cradle the spoke and a diamond-oriented cutout to allow four points of contact with the spoke nipple.
4 points of contact
Brace wraps around spoke for added security
Rubberized grip
Ergo grips
Canister viewport
Threaded neck
Press & release nozzle
CO2 Inflator
Designed to be as compact as possible, this CO2 inflator fits perfectly into any saddle bag.
Switchblade Multitool
This new take on a multi-tool is tailored to mechanics and experienced tool users with a retractable working arm and a set of interchangeable bits.
Button release for working arm
Bit storage
Button release for bit storage
Working arm locks at 90° and 180°
Three-hinge construction
Reinforced metal plates for durability
Fits 11 bits total
Three Hinge Multitool
This multi-tool is similar to traditional flip-out options, but it features an extra hinge to include more tools within the same compact footprint.
Mechanic Spoke Wrench
Designed with mechanics in mind, this ratcheting spoke wrench reduces the number of wrist turns required to true a wheel and prevents repetitive use injuries.
Interchangeable disks for different spoke sizes
Comfortable rubber handle
Ratcheting head
Torque readout on front of the tool for ambidextrous adjustment
Pop-up torque indicator
Rubber handle
Torque Screwdriver
Made for mechanics, this torque screwdriver features a pop-up button to indicate when the desired torque is reached to prevent damage to the bike.
Thru Axle
Designed for speed, this thru axle features a new quick release mechanism to quickly secure to or remove the axle from the hub of the bike in one motion.
Adjustable dial
Quick-release teeth
Force sensors
Mounted to the bottom of the cleat
Power Meter
This power meter attaches to the bottom of the cyclists' cleat to give an accurate power readout. If the cyclist does not want to buy two, it can be swapped between cleats to program it to read both sides simultaneously.
Tool Backpack
This tool backpack was designed specifically for race-day mechanics for quick and easy access to all their essential tools.
Side pockets for quick tool access
Hooks attach to the seats of the chase car to give mechanics room to work
Pull-out drawer and work area
Modular tool inserts
Travel Case
The larger or our two tool bag options, this travel case combines a pull-out workstation with dedicated and customizable storage for a wide range of tools.
