How I Built This with Guy Raz Springfree Trampoline: Keith Alexander & Steve Holmes (2019)
Aug 30, 2021
In this engaging discussion, Keith Alexander, a New Zealand engineer and the inventive mind behind the Springfree Trampoline, shares his journey of creating a safer trampoline design. Alongside him is Steve Holmes, a Canadian businessman who took a leap of faith to commercialize Keith's innovative product. They delve into the challenges of marketing their unique trampoline, the importance of safety innovations, and the remarkable surge in sales during the pandemic, showcasing how perseverance and creativity can redefine an industry.
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The First Prototype
- Keith's wife deemed traditional trampolines too dangerous, prompting him to design a safer one for their daughter.
- His initial design involved stretching canvas over an inflatable ring, which proved costly, leaky, and not bouncy enough.
Fiberglass Rod Innovation
- Dissatisfied with the inflatable design, Keith explored using angled fiberglass rods for the trampoline's frame.
- He involved his university students in building full-size prototypes, seeking commercialization advice.
University Ownership and Trials
- Keith faced the challenge of university ownership of his invention, requiring him to navigate commercialization through their office.
- Despite initial disinterest from the university, he persisted, collaborating with a trampoline manufacturer and conducting customer trials.