Koni Schafroth

 

Koni Schafroth studied Engineering in Zurich. He was fascinated by flying and he began work as a constructor and test-pilot of paragliders. At the same tune he developed a mechanical watch that had the precision of a quartz watch. The idea on which the design was based was his own, which he patented. It was used by Ronda and Cartier.

In 1998 Schafroth started Project Smartfish. Inspired by the body shape of the Tuna, he developed a revolutionary aircraft technology. With his team he refined various versions and in 2001 he secured his first patent.

To begin with he was not taken seriously by established industry figures. However, most of the critical voices have since been silenced, as Schaffroth was able to demonstrate the advantages of Smartfish: compact construction, a simplified manufacturing process, extremely high stability in the air, and greater economy than conventional aircraft.

In 2007 the first two-seater model is due to make its maiden flight, however before that an investor for the project must be found. Conventional aircraft manufacturers have so far chosen not to invest. .

He has achieved high recognition in his home country of Switzerland, since Smartfish has been used in a television commercial for an insurance company. Koni Schafroth is driven by extreme determination, unquenchable optimism and the conviction that one day Smartfish will have a place in commercial aviation. He has always rejected the easy option, since in his view existing industries always invent the same thing, which for him is definitely too boring.

In his talks he outlines the technlogy of the Smartfish and makes it comprehensible for a non-technical audience. He also talks about the life of the inventor.