TIAKI

 

 

This is Tiaki, a diagnostic piece of wearable tech designed to improve the detection of concussion. A 3-axis accelerometer and gyroscope are embedded into the cap these measure the linear and rotational acceleration that a player will experience during a collision. This information is then relayed to a physio on a smart device. When these forces exceed a pre-set threshold a warning message will be sent to the physio, and LED’s at the back of the scrumcap will be illuminated to inform officials and players alike that the player needs attention. The detection system also takes into account the effect of secondary impact syndrome or SIS. This is when a player experiences several high level collisions in a short space of time, which could worsen the effects of concussion. Any collisions over 95g will immediately set off the warning system, but once several between 65-95g are experienced the physio will get another warning message recommending the player should be tested for concussion symptoms at the next available moment. Aswell as the increased player safety aspect of Tiaki it has revolutionised the design of the scrumcap. Listening to players who complained about the constrictive and uncomfortable nature of existing headwear, a knitted cotton/polymide/elastane blend material was used. The material supplies a precision fit for performance, whilst integrating exceptional breathability, surprising levels of support, and adapting to the shape of the head. Tiaki is tackling the issue of concussion head on, whilst supplying an unrivalled level of comfort for the player.  

 

The cotton, polymide, elastane blend material will form the scrum-cap base. A knitting process will be used to form a 2D net of the scrumcaps shape, the process is relatively simple. It involves passing strands, or strips of material over and under each other to form an intertwined structure. Fibre strength and alignment can be adjusted specifically for each application, reducing weight and material consumption. The fibre strength will be improved around the hem by increasing the concentration of the weave. This will consequently improve the tightness around the edge of the scrumcap, much like the cuff of a sock. To manufacture the 2D net a high productivity computerised flat knitting machine will be used. The machine has a working width of 50"/127 cm being able to knit complex patterns of differing densities extremely quickly, thus reducing the time taken to manufacture the net. This allows for high volume production of the scrumcaps, and is the most simple and low cost way of manufacturing the complex 2D shape with differing levels of thickness throughout the design of the net. The machine works much like a 3D printer with the yarn blend is loaded onto the looms above the machine. The thread is then put through a feed wheel, which keeps the individual stands under tension, and then is put through the combined knitting transfer system. The pattern is then knitted at high speed, and the final 2D net is fed out of the machine via rollers. This high powered machine allows for a low labour intensive knitting process, and produces the whole scrumcap base in one swift process. An additional environmentally sustainable benefit is that it reduces waste because the one-piece upper does not use the multiple materials and material cuts used in traditional manufacture, this leaves no wastage material. It is truly a minimalist design with maximum return, and the by far the most suitable way of manufacturing this complex part.