Engineering a Better Surfboard

The Surfboard Industry faces significant challenges in terms of sustainability. Traditional surfboards are typically made from materials that are not environmentally friendly, have a relatively short lifespan, and are difficult to recycle. Additionally, outdated materials and the manufacturing process can be inconsistent and wasteful, resulting in an excessively large carbon footprint. There is also a growing awareness among surfers about the impact of their equipment on the environment, and many are actively seeking out more sustainable options. As this demand for more responsible surfboards increases, there may be more incentive for manufacturers to invest in sustainable materials and production techniques.

The choice of materials and construction techniques greatly affect a surfboard's performance levels and longevity. To capture and analyze the raw data of a surfboard's mechanical performance by using digital sensors and advanced software to measure the board's flex, torsion and vibration under load. This data was used to digitally optimize and reverse engineer a better system to create a lighter, stronger, and more responsive cores. By leveraging advanced technologies and circular design principles, we can create surfboards that are more tunable and optimized for the user's needs, leading to better performances and a more sustainable future for the sport.

Lamina's purpose is minimize environmental impact while maximizing performance value for users. Below are some of the ways we design for impact: 1. Dematerialization: use of digital tools to reduce the use of physical materials, minimize waste, and costs. 2. Design for longevity: design products to last longer, thereby reducing the need for replacement and associated resource consumption and waste generation. 3. Reduce CO2e: reducing the carbon footprint of board and industry by applying circular design principles - less materials, used longer. 4. Optimized performance and value: Lamina products are designed to deliver greater user performance and value to the community.

Advanced Technologies play a significant role in engineering a better, more circular surfboard. This is what we did to create a more sustainable and high-performing surfboard: 1. Digital design and simulation: By using advanced 3D modeling and simulation software, surfboard designers can create more accurate and efficient designs that optimize performance while minimizing material waste. This can help reduce the overall carbon footprint of the surfboard by reducing the amount of material used in the manufacturing process. 2. Advanced materials: Advanced materials like bio-based resins, recycled foam, pre-cured carbon and natural fibers can replace traditional petroleum-based materials, reducing the environmental impact of surfboard production. These materials can also enhance the durability and performance of the surfboard, making it a more sustainable choice in the long run. 3. Smart manufacturing: Advanced manufacturing technologies help reduce waste and increase efficiency in the production process that produces higher-quality surfboards with less environmental impact. Overall, by leveraging advanced technologies, it is possible to create a better, more circular surfboard that delivers superior performance while also reducing its environmental impact. By combining digital design, advanced materials, smart manufacturing, we can make significant strides towards a more sustainable and high-performing future for surfing.