With KICKSTART, Hof University of Applied Sciences has launched a funding program that starts at a very early stage of a potential start-up – with the development of ideas and prototypes. The KICKSTART teams have six months to develop their idea into an MVP (Minimum Viable Product) or prototype.
The mission
“We have been working for some time on motion analysis using machine learning-based 3D pose estimation and its validation using sensor hardware – in our case Arduino microcontrollers with Bosch smart sensors. We combine these two analysis methods to make training for riding hydroifoil and skateboards more understandable and comprehensible. Athletes can compare their progress and different runs in detail and understand them better.
To enable us to attach the sensors quickly and securely to different sports equipment, we are developing a modular system for housings and fastenings using 3D printing and CNC with the support of the Kickstart program. These housings are quick to attach, shock and water resistant and can be adapted to different microcontrollers and sensors thanks to generative design.”
How did you come up with this idea?
“We have been working with inertial sensors in a wide variety of situations for a very long time and have already developed our own hardware in the okinesio project. We attach the sensors to skateboards on uneven ground, surfboards in the water and even expensive musical instruments in the orchestra. Each new application scenario and each new generation of microcontrollers required new designs and production of housings and mountings.
As there were no solutions to this problem on the market, we developed a workflow ourselves that allows us to adapt the existing designs to the new situations in a modular and generative way. This resulted in the modular sensing mounts.”
Studying or working alone is already very time-consuming and exhausting. Nevertheless, you are still working on developing your own start-up idea at the same time. Where do you get your motivation from?
“These aspects of integrating hardware into new application scenarios are always part of the projects in our Interaction Design research area. Whether it’s small housings for sensors, larger holders for iPads, rail systems for VR glasses or similar – our aim is always to hide the technology used in such a way that in the end you no longer think about the technology behind it and focus more on the actual experience. The principle is called Shytech.”
The Kickstart program is designed to promote the further development of ideas that are at a very early stage. You have up to 7,500 euros of financial support available for this. How do you use the funding specifically?
“We have purchased new machines, such as an SLA 3D printer, to produce our housings. This has enabled us to produce watertight, precise components. The short time between idea, design and prototype is important here. We were also able to invest in the materials we need to manufacture and test the prototypes.”
At the end of the six months, do you already know what the future holds for you? What are your long-term goals? Are you aiming to set up a company?
“We are already in contact with the start-up center regarding further considerations. We are currently looking for further funding opportunities to further deepen our research into motion analysis. Founding a combination of our hardware and analysis software would be very interesting for us, but you have to react very quickly here, as the international competition is very agile and well funded.”
What have you learned from the project so far? What would you like to pass on to other people interested in founding a company?
“In our case, the new 3D printer has improved our responsiveness and the quality of our data. Fast production times promote a creative, agile development process. An idea for an optimization up to a functional prototype can be done on the same day.”
In the next episode of #kickstart2024 you will learn how a potential analysis of recycled, biodegradable polyester yarns can be used in agriculture. Further information on the KICKSTART project can be found on the university website under “Research & Transfer, Start-up”.
