Ethan Zimmerman

User Need Statement:

Ethan needs a means to securely install bolts and t-nuts without the assistance of another person to improve the efficiency and safety of route-setting. 

User Background:

• Works on the route setting team at the rec center climbing wall and is a top rope belay instructor 

• Started out working as a tester for American Ninja Warrior

• Transitioned to climbing and eventually got into route setting 

• Explained the process of route setting

  • Work in groups

  • Decide on the grades, set the route, climb each others route, give input 

  • Route setting is subjective — may vary from gym to gym 

• Mostly does bouldering 

User Pain Points:

• A rip in skin may end a session if doesn’t have tape 

• When a t-nut gets unclamped during route setting

  • A t-nut has spikes or mounts to screw into the wall 

  • Bolt goes through a ring with threading 

  • If there is rust or corrosion, the bolt pushes the t-nut out and the bolt and nut rotate together instead of securing to the wall 

  • Then need someone to hold the nut from the back of the wall

  • Someone has to climb a metal truss structure inside the wall and knock on the wall 

  • t-nuts that can be screwed in are more secure 

  • Can use a tap to thread out any rust or corrosion 

• Rental shoes are not that good 

• Explained that a crash pad can be difficult to use

  • Need someone to move the crash pad around to be positioned correctly for the climber

  • Can be difficult to place on rough terrain 

Insights:

• Route setting is an aspect of climbing that involves pain points that have not been thoroughly addressed. There may be opportunities to address unmet needs here.

Requirements for a Product:

• Cost effective

• Easy to use for one person

• Ensures safety