Polaris and Sheffield Hallam University unite for product development

Polaris has redesigned its Bike Pod Pro utilising the latest 3D design and print technology in partnership with Sheffield Hallam University and the Sheffield Institute of Arts.

With the help of student Sam Baker, Polaris has incorporated 3D modelling and printing into its design process and streamlining the cumbersome, traditional prototyping process. The redesign will see improvements to the product’s security and mobility as a result of these precision processes.

This partnership with Sheffield Hallam University and the Sheffield Institute of Arts is part of Polaris’ ongoing policy of investing in homegrown, British design talent.

“We were always confident that a Sheffield Hallam student was going to come to us with high skill levels, given the institute’s reputation," commented Polaris brand manager Andy Beach. "The new methods we have been able to implement thanks to the partnership have allowed us to take significant steps forward in both the Pod’s design and our design process as a whole.”

Baker is the second member of the Sheffield Institute of Arts that Polaris has taken on in the past 12 months.

Conor Moss, director of education and employer partnerships at Sheffield Hallam, said: "The university is focused on ensuring students graduate with the best possible experience ready to develop their careers and match our talented students with employers. I think Sam’s experience really highlights that interns can have a positive impact on a business and help them innovate by putting their learning into practice.”

Following a design advisory process, including consultation from British triathletes including Lucy Hall and Mark Buckingham, the Polaris Pod Pro EVO will be launched at the Bike Place Show in January 2017 alongside additional developments to the existing luggage range.

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