My client was an independent inventor with an idea for a new oar design for competitive rowing. This miniature model was part of his prior patent application, and the starting point for our work together. Based on a parallel motion linkage, the new design aimed to improve the efficiency with which the rower transfers power to the water.

I began with a series of 2D diagrams to compare the new geometry with existing oars. These "worksheets" defined the goals, and were an invaluable communication tool with the client.

As my client was engaged and imaginative, I was able to share rough sketches and ideas in a very efficient and collaborative process. The solutions were primarily aimed at the next prototype, but with future productization in mind.

As we solidified the concept, I began building a prototype design in ProEngineer. 

A series of prototyping rounds followed, testing and refining the design and gradually moving toward a commercial solution. Sourcing inexpensive machined parts was a challenge, but we built several successful prototypes.

The highlight of the project was testing the prototypes on the Harlem River with the help of the Columbia University men's rowing team.

As this phase of the project wrapped, I provided many pages of illustrations to support a new patent application. Eventually my client was awarded patent number US 7,708,610 for the invention, on which I was named an inventor.