FROM ONE INTO THREE
From the 2015 bluefin drive, we developed three entirely new drives packed with innovation. I lead the MDGT and MD180 development programs.
Kickup fins 
We patented a design allows you to hit underwater objects without breaking the drive. This feature led to a 98% reduction in warranty failure and a substantial competitive advantage. We developed all new kickup fins that gave more power for the same amount of pedaling. 
Maximized Compatibility
The kick-up feature needed to be compatible with all three new drives, fit into the pre-existing opening in the boat, and accommodate mechanisms that allow the drive to rotate 180° and 360°.
Adjustable Crank
The pedals are adjustable to fit different leg lengths. Users were struggling to understand how to use them. We patented a new mechanism inside the crank that allows the push button to adjust the leg length. I was responsible for delivering the project from concept through 120,000-unit production.
cost concious innovation
Previous generation drives used costly, custom stainless-steel chains that are difficult to source, for the 360, we used standard stainless-steel cables at 1/5 the cost. I was responsible for testing and proving this system worked across a range of tests including a lifetime simulation of pedaling millions of cycles. This formed some of the core breakthrough technology that kept the 360 a cost-effective innovate solution.
rotation 180 check
rotation 180 check
Tooling family feature geometry checks
Tooling family feature geometry checks
3D print fit check
3D print fit check
sand ingress testing
sand ingress testing
sand testing 360 sprockets
sand testing 360 sprockets
cycle testing POM 25%GF chain gears
cycle testing POM 25%GF chain gears
3 million cycles later, 17-4 SS mast snapped
3 million cycles later, 17-4 SS mast snapped
Fin warp afte 1,000,000 cycles
Fin warp afte 1,000,000 cycles
machined sprockets for less bearing wear on GF parts
machined sprockets for less bearing wear on GF parts
new pedal invention anti-rotation bungee
new pedal invention anti-rotation bungee
Drive bag samples
Drive bag samples
detail drawing crank core
detail drawing crank core
First production batch
First production batch

MIRAGEDRIVE 360 INTRO

MIRAGEDRIVE 180

TESTING
UV TESTING • FATIGUE CYCLE TESTING • FEA • IMPACT TESTING • TENSILE TESTING • FIELD TESTING • SAND & SALTWATER TESTING • FMEA • RUNNING OVER STUFF

PRODUCTION PROCESSES
INJECTION MOLDING • ALUMINUM EXTRUSION • ANODIZING & HEAT TREATING • STAINLESS STAMPING • CNC MILLING • OVER-MOLDING • LASER ETCHING • CUSTOM STAINLESS HARDWARE • PRECISION MOLDING (0.002”) • PASSIVATION AND ELECTROPOLISHING • DIE CUTTING

Credit to Phil Dow inventor of the MirageDrive 360
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