If so, BoatUS wants to hear from you. Its Innovation in Life Jacket Design Competition is calling for out-of-the-box life-jacket design entries. But there's not a lot of time – Feb. 1 is the deadline to submit ideas.
The BoatUS Foundation, along with Underwriters Laboratories and the Personal Floatation Device Manufacturers Association, have teamed up to seek out the newest technologies and design innovations that could rethink a 100-year-old design. "The interest in new, more comfortable designs are always important to waterway users," said BoatUS VP of boating safety Chris Edmonston. "While current models of life jackets save lives every day, many are still bulky and uncomfortable, leaving boaters reluctant to wear them. This competition hopes to challenge that mindset."
The entries will be judged based on four criteria: wearability, reliability, cost and innovation. Wearability relates to the level of comfort. Reliability will take into account the chances for potential failure, while cost will look at the affordability of the design. Innovation will take into account originality or the employment of new technologies.
In early February, video of all entries will be posted online at the BoatUS Foundation's channel at YouTube.com, and the public will be asked to select a group of finalists. The finalist entries will then be reviewed by a special panel of judges convened at the International Boating and Water Safety Summit in Savannah, Ga. on March 6-9, 2011, and the winner announced. A $5,000 cash award goes to the winning designer.
For more information on how to enter and for contest rules, click here. BassFans may also contact Chris Edmonston at (703) 823-9550 x8356.
