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Summary

Embark on an outdoor odyssey with Chris, co-founder of Loop Alien, as he unravels the company's evolution. Loop Alien, a hardware marvel within the Ripstop by the Roll family, crafts tools and kits, transforming hammock setups and tarp rigging into a breeze. Chris delves into the early Ripstop days, his role in the company, and the intricate design process behind Loop Alien's game-changing products, featuring materials like aluminum and titanium. This podcast journey navigates through the customization and material properties of composites, cautioning on 3D printing limitations for load-critical applications. Chris envisions a future merging 3D printing with RBTR fabrics, exploring innovative uses of magnets and the exciting prospects of outdoor hardware. Calling all outdoor enthusiasts – tune in for Chris's insights, where gadgets meet the great outdoors!

https://loopalien.com/
Instagram: @LoopAlien

Takeaways

• Loop Alien is a hardware company that provides tools and kits to make outdoor activities easier and more accessible.
• The design process for Loop Alien's products involves careful consideration of functionality, finishing, and material choice.
• Loop Alien's focus on flatware design allows for cost-effective manufacturing and efficient use of materials. 
• While 3D printing is becoming more accessible, it is important to be cautious when using 3D printed items for load critical applications.
• The combination of 3D printing and RBTR fabrics offers opportunities for customization and innovation in outdoor gear.
• The future of outdoor hardware lies in solving problems and addressing pain points, with an emphasis on user-driven innovation.

Chapters

00:00- Introduction and Background

02:13- Early Days of Ripstop by the Roll

04:11- Background and Role of Chris

07:26- Formation of Loop Alien

09:55- Loop Alien's Products and Mission

19:14- Loop Alien's Design Process

23:55- Importance of Flatware in Loop Alien's Designs

27:25- Materials Used in Loop Alien's Hardware

31:07- The Cord Winder and Other Loop Alien Products

36:01- The Guideline Tensioner (GLT)

40:15- The Importance of Finishing in Loop Alien's Hardware

44:04- The Choice of Aluminum and Titanium in Loop Alien's Hardware

50:48- Customization and Material Properties in Composites

53:06- Limitations of 3D Printing for Load Critical Applications

54:25- Benefits of 3D Printing for Prototyping and Tinkering

55:54- Examples of 3D Printed Outdoor Gear

57:48- The Potential of 3D Printing and RBTR Fabrics

59:47- Innovative Uses of Magnets in 3D Printing

01:01:39- The Future of Outdoor Hardware and Problem Solving

01:03:06- The Role of 3D Printing in Democratizing Manufacturing

01:04:57- Recommended Resources for 3D Printing and Materials

01:06:20- Favorite Filament for 3D Printing

01:07:38- Target Demographic for Loop Alien Products

01:09:06- The Beginner Version of the Target Demographic

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