Nivor is an avalanche safety system that increases survival time under snow thanks to an airbag inflated with breathable air. In the event of an avalanche, the airbag inflates rapidly and the air inside can be inhaled through a mouthpiece.

The idea comes from the analysis of the limits of current avalanche safety equipment and alarming data on survival. After 18 minutes under the snow, the chance of survival drops drastically. I wanted to design a solution that could extend this time window by addressing the issue of asphyxiation, the main cause of death in avalanche victims. The inspiration came from my personal experience in the alpine world and from testimonies of mountain guides and rescuers.

Nivor consists of an external pouch containing an avalanche airbag. The airbag is powered by a supercapacitor compressor, placed inside the backpack. The compressor cables run through the hydration hole found in most backpacks. The external pouch can be connected with a backpack thanks to two nylon straps that goes around the shoulder straps and three magnets (that are used to keep the pouch in the right position). Once activated with a trigger handle, the system quickly inflates using ambient air. The airbag is also equipped with a tube connected to a mouthpiece with a HEPA filter, allowing the user to breathe the 170 liters of air stored inside. Two one-way valves prevents carbon dioxide from flowing back. In the event of an avalanche, the airbag reduces burial depth using the inverse segregation principle (brazilian nut effect) and extends survival time from 18 to 45 minutes, giving rescuers more time.

Following in-depth research on avalanches and avalanche accidents, I analyzed current technologies (gas, battery, and supercapacitor-powered airbags) and the limitations of existing products. I conducted surveys with both amateur and professional alpinists to identify real needs. After defining the design brief, I developed sketches and a storyboard, followed by a 3D model. I created the prototype by sewing the airbag and pouch and connecting them to a portable compressor. Two one-way valves and two tubes were inserted into the airbag: one connected to the compressor and the other to the mouthpiece. For the mouthpiece, I used a diving regulator. I made the HEPA filter using sterile gauze and 3D printed the trigger handle, the mouthpiece adapter and its protective case. The system is attached to the backpack with straps and magnets.

Most airbags on the market are powered by single-use compressed gas cartridges. Additionally, to have an avalanche airbag system, one must purchase an integrated backpack, which is often very expensive. Nivor is a universal system, compatible with most backpacks and, most importantly, reusable thanks to its supercapacitor power source. On the market there are already avalanche backpack powered by supercapacitor, but Nivor is the only one that allows the user to breathe the air contained in the airbag. It is also the only one to integrate an air filtration system.

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