ACIDO Rocket Finalist
Kestrel: Safety in the Canopy
Kestrel is a harness system for Arborists, designed for safety in the canopy. A key danger for harnesses is Suspension Trauma, which can be lethal in as little as 10 minutes. This danger becomes greater when combined with arboriculture being relatively unregulated, along with nearly half of all companies being 1-5 employees, limiting on-site emergency response capacity.
Kestrel uses a Fall Detection Emergency Positioning system to put the wearer into a safer sitting position in the case of a fall, while IPC devices in the leg pads assist with blood circulation. These features help to reduce the affects of suspension trauma and prolong survival until emergency services take over.
Kestrel also includes ergonomic improvements, including a Variable Position sit/stand mechanism that lets the wearer adjust between working/climbing and sitting/resting positions. By allowing variable body positioning, Kestrel aims to make demanding arborists tasks easier.
About the Designer
Kirk Bowlby, Carleton
Kirk Bowlby is an Industrial Design graduate from Carleton University. He approaches design as a constantly evolving practice and has a strong affinity for learning new tools, techniques, and design thinking strategies. He has constantly pursued growth in his creative skills and is always looking to challenge himself. Kirk’s work is grounded, with a focus on research and impactful design.