The idea
an avalanche beacon that is as easy to learn as it is to use
Arva Evo 3, 2005 model year
Arva Evo 4, 2025 model year
The problem
Beacons are outdated, and it shows in their lackluster features and clunky usability
This means beacons still have many of the same issues they had 20 years ago
Issues like:
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These devices are highly technical and unforgiving, making troubleshooting under pressure nearly impossible. Without years of experience, the margin for error remains dangerously high.
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Real training requires time, space, and gear—and the reality is that most people don’t do it. Practice is rare, yet rescue depends on it.
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Beacons have hardly evolved in decades: outdated screens, clunky buttons, and in life-or-death moments, every second counts.
That makes me ask
Why haven’t we designed a beacon that’s intuitive + accessible
and teaches you how to use itself?
Deep, thorough research
I studied how people use, misuse, and at times fail to use avalanche beacons. Through user research, expert interviews, and system mapping, I identified critical gaps in training and interface design. These insights formed the foundation for everything that followed.
Duration
4 months
Methods
Market analysis, affinity diagramming, literature search, product testing and deconstruction, expert appraisal, interviews
Research has shown me some some key facts to keep in mind
Setting up training scenarios takes time, experience, and extra equipment. It’s a hassle and that’s why most people don’t do it.
Many amateurs struggle with the heavy visual burden of these devices and often find it difficult to get oriented.
With that in mind, lets get brain storming and sketching
Concept 1
VR trainer
This concept immerses the user in a fully virtual reality training experience, enabling them to practice avalanche rescue skills in a safe digital environment.
Concept 2
Ultra Haptic
This concept centers on making the beacon as intuitive as possible, reducing visual burden through the use of haptic feedback, including audio cues, directional vibrations, and a 3D touch-based interface.
Prototyping
From Lo-Fi to Hi_Fi to ergonomic and electronic mock ups, I’ve covered it all
Meet Aspect
The worlds first beacon with AI driven training functionality
Beautifully technical
The Demo
Thoughtfully innovative,
technically superior
Componentry
Balancing reliability, compactness, and technological sophistication was challenging, but ultimately it resulted in a design with minimal compromise across the board.
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On the backend, LoRa was used alongside traditional 457Hz radio waves to detect buried persons. LoRa improves accuracy and speed in shallower burials where its broad-spectrum 'chirp' can penetrate, while the 457Hz frequency remains reliable in all situations.
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This system combines a lithium-ion battery with a standard AA battery for power. The rechargeable lithium-ion cell supports training simulations and LoRa active tether features, while in emergency situations the AA battery can be relied upon.
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The haptic motors allow the device to communicate directionality without placing any visual burden on the user.
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The device also includes a voice navigation feature that reduces visual burden, allowing the user to stay aware of their surroundings.
