We’re Keeping You in the Loop!
We decided that it was a good idea to start regularly posting updates on our progress in order to both satisfy people’s curiosity and keep the stoke alive before our eventual product launch. You can expect updates to cover any new information on the project and company that doesn’t need to be explicitly protected. That includes design changes, test results, and any exciting company news that comes up. We will also try to address any questions you guys have for us whenever we can.
Zoa PL1 prototype
Where We’re At, And What We’re Up To
I’ve been working on this project full time for well over a year now. I started thinking that I could quickly adapt some existing technologies I’d seen, but soon came to the realization that the problem was more complicated than I realized. It was best suited by a different approach.
After a lot of trial and error in the proof of concept phase, I eventually moved forward with a version of the multi-pulley drive system used on the current prototypes. This design concept has been through a myriad of iterations to get to where it is now, and there are surely more to come before we launch the product.
Testing an early prototype at Hollyburn
Most recently I have overhauled the gearbox design. This design change will reduce weight, increase torque, and should also prevent some misfeeds that can lead to the device burning through the paracord.
One of the distinguishing aspects of the design is that it is built to work with small diameter rope. We see this as essential for the product to be a practical tool while touring, but it also creates challenges. Common methods of gripping and feeding heavier ropes can run into issues when you try to scale them down for something like paracord.
I’m really grateful for the interest and positive responses to the project so far. I’m confident in the technology and I really do feel that the PL1 can shake up the backcountry market.
Cheers,
Robert Button, P.Eng - Founder
Laying down a line for testing the PL1 in the beautiful mountains of British Columbia