In flow, at altitude.
YEAR
Fall 2025
DURATION
12 Weeks
SOFTWARE
Solidworks, Keyshot
SKILLSETS
Trend Analysis, User Research, Design Iteration, Branding, Advanced Surface Modeling, Prototype, Visualization
FOCUS
Systematic Solution, Branding
ALPEX is a smart communication system for snow riders, enabling phone-free group connection, navigation cues, and effortless moment capture in outdoor environments.
A Mismatch
Most snow riders need simplicity, not more tech.
Winter sports remain largely old-school.
Most gear still prioritizes protection and performance over experience.
Shifting
User Demographics.
As winter sports become more accessible, snow sports are attracting a broader audience, with younger and recreational skiers growing fastest.
Experiential
Spending.
Spending shifts from ownership to memorable, social experiences, including rentals, short trips, and group activities.
Between basic and over complex
There’s a gap between fragmented basic tools and overly complex smart systems — riders need easy, intuitive tech.
Placeholder
Different skill levels.
Shared needs.
What shapes the experience isn’t skill level — it’s how well core needs are supported.
3 needs remain consistent: communication, navigation, and capturing moments.
Streamlined
Performance
Safety-first | Phone-free | Glove-friendly control
Community
Stay connected | Locate and share | Move as a group
Expressive
Playful identity | Customizable fit | Style without compromise
How might we reimagine connection in snow sports,
moving from isolated gear to a seamless, social, and expressive experience?
Assuring | Calm | Expressive
ALPEX is built on a simple belief: Connection should stay clear, intuitive, and effortless.
It is a cross-gear smart module system designed for mountain motion — keeping riders aware, safe, and in sync on every run.
Alpine
Nexus
Product Mounting Position
I evaluated and scored different mounting positions before selecting the optimal position for further form development. Comfort level, safety level and tech feasibility is considered in this process.
Form development focused on technical feasibility, ergonomics, and physical interaction.
Iterative Validation Through Prototype
I developed a modular assembly system for prototypes to explore different form and size combinations. Through iterative CAD modeling, I tested scale, mounting angles, and projection geometry to ensure compatibility with existing gear systems.
A device that blends
into your gear.
Alpex is aligned with current helmet system with great adaptability.
Stable & Secure Mounting
ALPEX is secured to the ear pads through magnetic alignment and Velcro attachment.
Bone Conduction
Micro Phone
Pairing/Switch
Interface
built for gloves.
Seamless control with gloves on.
Volume Adjustment
Emergency Call
One-touch access to group communication.
Stay oriented.
Stay present.
Contextual navigation data is delivered without disrupting focus.
Automatic Moment Capture
Automatically captures photos and short video clips, enabling hands-free documentation during active riding.
Glanceable Projection
Group location, time and route direction are projected directly into the goggles.
Flip-to-project Mode
The same system can flip and project onto nearby surfaces — keeping critical information visible without reaching for a phone.
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Connected.
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Preparation.
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Support.
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Memory.
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Community.
The APP
Keep you connected, guided and provide seamless auto-capture experience for you.
Add a Title
Connected
Group-based skiing
Live member status
Preparation
Simple route planning with resorts’ map
Free-ride friendly
Support
Context-aware states
Rest / Emergency / Long-tap rescue
Memory
Hands-free capture
AI-curated moments
Community
Shared experiences and tips
Core electronics volume: ~45 × 45 × 15 mm
Electronics weight target: < 80 g
Active use: ~6–8 hours
Mixed use (idle + active): full ski day
Designed for cold-weather operation
Packaging &
Technical Overview
Micro-Projection Module
Micro projector + lens assembly
Flip / rotatable optical path
Adaptive focus & angle correction
Communication Module
Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE)
Long-range radio (sub-GHz or similar)
Group comms & emergency signaling
Sensor System
IMU (accelerometer + gyroscope)
Speed & motion sensing
Context detection (ride / rest / stop)
Power System
Rechargeable Li-ion battery
Capacity: ~400–600 mAh
Magnetic charging contacts
Main Processing Unit
Low-power microcontroller (MCU)
Handles sensor data, comms, and projection logic
Frozen Ice Cracks
Aurora
Tundra Flora
