Ep 6. Origami Kayak

Innovation Nation is a popular TV show that covers the latest and greatest innovations in science and technology. In season 4 episode 6, viewers are introduced to the Origami Kayak, an innovative new product that promises to revolutionize the world of watersports.

The episode begins by introducing the audience to the ancient art of origami. Host Mo Rocca explains that origami, which originated in Japan centuries ago, is the art of folding paper into various shapes and structures. He shows viewers examples of intricate origami designs, including paper cranes and geometric shapes.

Next, Rocca introduces the concept of using origami to create functional objects beyond paper. He explains that the Origami Kayak is the brainchild of engineer Anton Willis, who was inspired by the folding principles of origami to create a portable, lightweight kayak.

According to Rocca, traditional kayaks are heavy and difficult to transport, making them impractical for many people. The Origami Kayak, on the other hand, can be folded up and carried in a backpack or small bag, making it easy to take anywhere. Rocca notes that the Origami Kayak is not the first folding kayak to hit the market, but it is the first to use origami-inspired folding techniques.

To showcase the Origami Kayak's unique design, Rocca visits Willis at his workshop in San Francisco. Willis demonstrates how the kayak works, unfolding it from a compact bundle and assembling it into a fully functional watercraft. He explains that the kayak is made of a durable and lightweight material called corrugated plastic, which is similar to the material used to make signs and banners. He also notes that the Origami Kayak is designed to be incredibly stable and easy to maneuver, even for beginners.

Rocca is clearly impressed with the Origami Kayak's design and functionality, but he isn't the only one. The episode features interviews with several kayaking enthusiasts who have tried the Origami Kayak and rave about its ease of use and portability. They note that the kayak is ideal for city dwellers who lack a place to store a traditional kayak or for anyone who wants to explore new waterways without investing in an expensive and cumbersome watercraft.

In addition to showcasing the Origami Kayak, the episode also delves into Willis's journey as an inventor. Rocca notes that Willis took a somewhat unconventional path to entrepreneurship, having worked in various industries before deciding to start his own business. Willis discusses the challenges he faced along the way, including securing funding for his project and convincing potential investors of the viability of his design.

Despite the obstacles, Willis persevered and eventually launched the Origami Kayak on Kickstarter, a crowdfunding platform, where it quickly gained a following and exceeded its funding goal. Today, the Origami Kayak is available for purchase online and has received rave reviews from customers around the world.

Overall, season 4 episode 6 of Innovation Nation is a fascinating look at an innovative new product that is changing the world of watersports. Through interviews with the inventor, demonstrations of the product, and testimonials from satisfied customers, viewers can see firsthand the potential of origami-inspired design to create functional and portable products that make a real difference in people's lives.