Snowboard binding with pyrotechnic fastener release

Abstract

A ski binding release system includes a spring that is releasably held in a first state using a pyrotechnic fastener. In the first state, a ski boot is secured in the ski binding. The pyrotechnic fastener is electrically connected to an activation circuit. The activation circuit includes a battery, a plurality of sensors, a switch, and a controller. When the controller determines that a skier has fallen, the controller generates an output signal that transitions the switch from an open state to a connected state. In the open state, the pyrotechnic fastener is electrically disconnected from the battery. In the connected state, the pyrotechnic fastener is electrically connected to the battery. Electrical energy from the battery causes the pyrotechnic fastener to explode to transition the spring from the first state to a second state, thereby releasing the ski boot from the ski binding.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application generally relates to ski bindings. Background Technology

[0002] Various sports utilize athletic boots attached to another sports platform (e.g., skis or boards) via a binding that controllably releases the boot or user's foot from the platform. In the event of an accident, the user's foot or boot is released from the platform for safety reasons (e.g., to prevent the user's foot from being subjected to excessive force or twisting). In most current systems, release occurs when a mechanical threshold (e.g., force) exceeds a preset limit. The binding then mechanically separates the user's foot or boot to free the platform (ski, board).

[0003] These traditional immobilization devices have limited use in preventing very rapid events, such as those experienced in competitive sports like downhill skiing. User injuries include fractures, spinal cord injuries, concussions, and other head injuries. More specifically, anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are all too common in winter mountain sports. Conventional immobilization devices, which are manually adjusted based on daily experience or approximate measurements, have limited (mechanical) response times and are insufficient or ineffective in responding to prevent or reduce ACL or other injuries. Attempts to modernize immobilization devices and immobilization release systems have not yielded effective or commercially viable alternatives to the current systems. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The exemplary embodiments described herein are innovative in that no single feature is indispensable or solely responsible for its desired properties. The following description and accompanying drawings illustrate certain illustrative implementations of this disclosure, indicating several exemplary ways in which various principles of this disclosure can be implemented. However, these illustrative examples are not exhaustive of the many possible embodiments of this disclosure. Some advantageous features will now be summarized without limiting the scope of the claims. Other objects, advantages, and novel features of this disclosure will be set forth in the following detailed description of the disclosure when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which are intended to illustrate and not limit the invention.

[0005] One embodiment relates to an apparatus including a ski binding, the ski binding comprising a spring having a first state of securing a ski boot in the ski binding and a second state of releasing the ski boot from the ski binding; an explosion bolt mechanically connected to the spring to releasably retain the spring in the first state; a battery; an activation circuit extending from the explosion bolt to the battery, the activation circuit including a switch having an connected state and an disconnected state, wherein in the connected state the battery and the explosion bolt are electrically coupled through the switch, and in the disconnected state the battery and the explosion bolt are electrically disconnected; and a processor-based controller electrically coupled to the switch, the processor being configured to automatically generate an output signal in response to input signals from one or more sensors, the output signal switching the switch from the disconnected state to the connected state to activate the explosion bolt, wherein the activation of the explosion bolt causes the spring to switch from the first state to the second state, thereby releasing the ski boot from the ski binding.

[0006] One embodiment relates to an automated method for releasing a ski boot from a ski binding, comprising: receiving sensor data from a plurality of sensors disposed on a skier, a ski boot, and / or a ski binding by a processor-based controller; evaluating the sensor data in the processor-based controller to determine the state of the skier; automatically generating an output signal to activate a pyrotechnic fastener in the ski binding when the processor-based controller determines that the skier is in a falling state; using the processor-based controller to activate a pyrotechnic fastener that holds a spring in the ski binding in a first state that secures the ski boot in the ski binding; generating an explosion using the pyrotechnic fastener that causes at least a portion of the pyrotechnic fastener to break; and transitioning the spring from the first state to a second state to release the ski boot from the ski binding.

[0007] One embodiment relates to an automated method for releasing a ski boot from a ski binding, comprising: wirelessly receiving a manual activation signal from a manual release device via a processor-based controller; automatically generating an output signal in response to the manual activation signal using the processor-based controller to activate a pyrotechnic fastener in the ski binding, the pyrotechnic fastener holding a spring in the ski binding in a first state that secures the ski boot in the ski binding; generating an explosion using the pyrotechnic fastener, the explosion causing at least a portion of the pyrotechnic fastener to break; and transitioning the spring from the first state to a second state to release the ski boot from the ski binding. Attached Figure Description

[0008] To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the nature and advantages of this concept, please refer to the detailed description and accompanying drawings of the preferred embodiments.

[0009] Figure 1 This is a side view of an automatic fireworks ski binding release system in the disconnected state according to one embodiment.

[0010] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A side view of the automatic fireworks ski binding release system in the connected state.

[0011] Figure 3 This is a side view of the heel piece of a ski binding according to one embodiment.

[0012] Figure 4 It shows Figure 3 Alternative embodiments of the follower shown.

[0013] Figure 5 This is a top view of the toe piece of a ski binding according to one embodiment.

[0014] Figure 6 This is a side view of the heel piece of a ski binding according to another embodiment.

[0015] Figure 7 This is an exploded cross-sectional view of an explosive bolt according to one embodiment.

[0016] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of a fragile nut according to one embodiment.

[0017] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of a sensor system.

[0018] Figure 10 It is a schematic representation of clothing that can be worn by a skier and a portion of activation circuitry that can be integrated therein or otherwise mounted thereon, according to at least some embodiments.

[0019] Figure 11 This is a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of the activation circuit.

[0020] Figure 12 This is a block diagram of an architecture based on some embodiments.

[0021] Figure 13 An example of a mobile platform configured and arranged according to this disclosure is shown.

[0022] Figure 14 A cloud-based or networked architecture that can be used to implement one or more aspects of this disclosure is shown.

[0023] Figure 15 This is a flowchart of an automated method for releasing a ski binding according to one or more embodiments.

[0024] Figure 16 This is a flowchart of a method for releasing a ski binding with one or more pyrotechnic fasteners, according to another embodiment.

[0025] Figure 17 This is a flowchart of a method for releasing a ski binding with one or more pyrotechnic fasteners, according to another embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0026] The pyrotechnic fastener is used to releasably secure a spring to a ski binding. The pyrotechnic fastener holds the spring in a first state, securing the ski boot to the ski binding. When the pyrotechnic fastener is activated, it explodes and breaks (or at least partially breaks). The breakage of the pyrotechnic fastener causes the spring to transition from the first state to a second state, releasing the ski boot from the ski binding (or at least partially releasing it).

[0027] Pyrotechnic fasteners may include explosive bolts (or explosive screws) and / or frangible nuts (explosive nuts). Pyrotechnic fasteners include cavities to hold explosive material. For example, an explosive bolt may include a hollow cylinder or another cavity to hold explosive material. Similarly, a frangible nut may include a section or other portion that includes a cavity to hold explosive material.

[0028] An igniter is positioned near, on, or within, the explosive material. The igniter is electrically coupled to an activation circuit that outputs current or power when a skier is detected to be falling. This current or power causes the igniter to ignite the explosive material (e.g., through a spark, increased temperature, etc.), which causes an explosion that at least partially breaks the pyrotechnic fastener, thereby transitioning the spring from a first state to a second state. In some embodiments, the spring has a higher tension in the first state than in the second state. Therefore, when the pyrotechnic fastener is detonated, the spring naturally returns to the lower tension second state.

[0029] The activation circuit includes a battery, a switch, a controller, and multiple sensors. The sensors are located on the skier, ski bindings, and / or / multiple boots. Data from the sensors is evaluated by the controller to determine when the skier has begun to fall (e.g., is in a falling state). When the controller determines that the skier has begun to fall, it generates an output signal that transitions the switch from an off state to an on state. In the off state, the battery is electrically disconnected (or decoupled) from the pyrotechnic fastener. In the on state, the battery is electrically coupled (or connected) to the pyrotechnic fastener. Electrical energy from the battery ignites and detonates the pyrotechnic fastener, thereby releasing the ski boot from the ski bindings.

[0030] Figure 1 This is a side view of an automatic pyrotechnic ski binding release system 10 according to an embodiment. System 10 includes a ski binding 100, a boot 110, and a ski 120. The ski binding 100 is attached to the ski 120, for example, by screws, bolts, or other attachment mechanisms. The boot 110 is releasably mechanically attached to the ski binding 100 (e.g., a ski binding assembly). For example, the toe lip 112 of the boot 110 is releasably mechanically attached to the toe piece 102 of the ski binding 100. Furthermore, the heel lip 114 of the boot 110 is releasably mechanically connected to the heel piece 104 of the ski binding 100. The toe piece 102 and the heel piece 104 of the ski binding 100 together include a mechanical engagement point for releasably securing the boot 110 to the ski 120.

[0031] The ski binding 100 includes one or more springs 130 that apply pressure and / or provide resistance to the boot 110 when the boot 110 is releasably mechanically attached to the ski binding 100. Examples of springs 130 in the heel member 104 of the ski binding 100 include forward compression springs and heel DIN springs. An example of springs 130 in the toe member 102 of the ski binding 100 is a toe DIN spring.

[0032] The tension of spring 130 can be adjusted by turning a bolt or screw (usually a bolt). One or more of the bolts are explosive bolts 132, which, when activated or detonated, release the tension on the corresponding spring 130. Releasing the tension on one or more springs 130 causes the boot 110 to release from the ski binding 100.

[0033] One or more explosive bolts (generally referred to as explosive bolts) 132 are electrically coupled to a circuit 150, which is capable of providing power to ignite, activate, and / or detonate the explosive material in the explosive bolts 132. In one example, the power from the circuit 150 initiates or triggers an exothermic chemical reaction in the explosive material. The explosive material may include gunpowder (black powder), hexanitrostilbene, and / or another explosive material.

[0034] The power to activate the explosive bolt 132 can be provided by the battery 160 or other energy storage device. In a specific example, the battery 160 can be a 12V battery or a 9V battery. The circuit 150 includes a switch 170 having a connected state and an disconnected state. Figure 1 In the middle, switch 170 is in the open state, which disconnects the explosive bolt 132 from the battery 160. Figure 2 In the middle, switch 170 is in the connected state, so that the explosion bolt 132 is electrically coupled to battery 160.

[0035] The state of switch 170 can be controlled by an output signal generated by a microprocessor-based controller 180. Controller 180 can generate the output signal based on input signals from one or more sensors 190. Input signals from one or more sensors 190 can indicate whether a user (e.g., a skier) has fallen (e.g., is in a fall state), and thus indicate whether to change (e.g., automatically change) the state of switch 570 to detonate explosive bolt 132, thereby detaching boot 110 from restraint 100. Circuit 150, battery 160, switch 170, controller 180, and one or more sensors 190 can be referred to as activation circuit 195.

[0036] Although the activation circuit 195 is in Figure 1 The circuit 195 is illustrated as being positioned on boot 110; however, it should be noted that any components activating circuit 195 (e.g., circuit 150 (or a portion thereof), battery 160, switch 170, controller 180, and / or one or more sensors 190) may be positioned in another location, such as on the user's body, on restraint 100, and / or on ski 120. In one example, controller 180 and / or one or more sensors 190 may include components of a smartphone or other electronic device held or mounted on the user (e.g., in the user's pocket). In one example, this is achieved using a smartwatch or similar wrist or arm-worn device with a user interface, which may optionally be coupled to a mobile communication device or be capable of wireless communication on its own.

[0037] When the ski binding 100 includes multiple explosive bolts 132, the same activation circuit can be used to detonate some or all of these explosive bolts 132. In one example, the same activation circuit can be used to detonate the explosive bolts 132 in the heel piece 104 of the ski binding 100, while different activation circuits can be used to detonate the explosive bolts 132 in the toe piece 102 of the ski binding 100. In another embodiment, the same activation circuit can be used to detonate all the explosive bolts 132 in the ski binding 100 (e.g., in the toe piece 102 and the heel piece 104). In an alternative embodiment, different activation circuits can be used to detonate each explosive bolt 132. For example, when the ski binding 100 includes three explosive bolts 132, three separate or independent activation circuits may be present.

[0038] In some embodiments, the activation circuit 195 can be activated manually (e.g., based on sensor data) in addition to automatic activation. For example, a skier can press a manual activation button electrically coupled (e.g., via a wired or wireless connection) to the controller 180 to manually detonate one or more explosive bolts 132.

[0039] A tether 134 securely attaches each explosive bolt 132 to the ski binding 100 to prevent the explosive bolt 132 from becoming a projectile that could injure nearby skiers or spectators and to prevent littering on the ski slope. The tether 134 may include wires, cables, ropes, tethers, or other tethers. The tether 134 may be attached around the explosive bolt 132, may pass through a hole in the explosive bolt 132, and / or be connected to a washer attached to the explosive bolt 132. Alternatively, the tether 134 may be attached to another bolt or screw in the ski binding 100. For example, the tether 134 may be attached to a bolt 136 that attaches the ski binding 100 to the ski 120. The bolt 136 may have a hole through which the tether 134 can pass to attach to the bolt 136. In another example, the tether 134 may be attached to a washer 138 for the bolt 136. Washer 138 may have a hole through which tether 134 may be passed to attach to washer 138, for example by wrapping, brazing, welding or other attachment techniques.

[0040] When the ski binding 100 includes a plurality of expansion bolts 132, some or all of these expansion bolts 132 may be attached to a corresponding tether 134. The tether, such as tether 134, may be used with any of the expansion bolts and breakable nuts disclosed herein.

[0041] Figure 3This is a side view of the heel piece 304 of a ski binding according to one embodiment. The heel piece 304 may be identical to the heel piece 104. As shown, the heel piece 304 includes two springs 330A and 330B. The first spring 330A may correspond to the heel DIN spring. The second spring 330B may correspond to the forward compression spring. The tension of each spring 330A and 330B is set according to the relative positions of corresponding expansion bolts 332A and 332B. Each expansion bolt 332A and 332B may be identical to expansion bolt 132. In an alternative embodiment, only one of bolts 332A and 332B is an expansion bolt, and the other is a standard (non-explosive) bolt.

[0042] also, Figure 3 A bolt retaining housing 340 covering the explosive bolt 332A is shown. The bolt retaining housing 340 includes a cavity 345 that, when the explosive bolt 332A is activated, retains or traps the explosive bolt 332A and the spring 330A to prevent injury to nearby skiers or spectators and to prevent scattering on the ski slope. The surface of the bolt retaining housing 340 may be solid, or it may have small holes that allow air to circulate within the cavity 345 to provide oxygen for igniting the explosive material in the explosive bolt 332A. Bolt retaining housings, such as bolt retaining housing 340, can be used with any explosive bolts and breakable nuts disclosed herein.

[0043] also, Figure 3 One embodiment is shown in which two explosive bolts 332A and 332B are electrically coupled to the same activation circuit 395, which may be the same as or different from activation circuit 195. In this embodiment, when switch 170 is in the connected state, the two explosive bolts 332A and 332B receive power from the same battery 160 to detonate simultaneously (or nearly simultaneously). Conversely, Figure 4 The diagram illustrates the electrical coupling of each explosion bolt 332A, 332B to a corresponding activation circuit 495A, 495B. Each activation circuit 495A, 495B may be identical to activation circuit 195 or 395. It should be noted that each activation circuit 495A, 495B may have its own sensor, or activation circuits 495A, 495B may have a common sensor. As described above, the activation circuits (e.g., activation circuits 195, 395, 495A, 495B) may be at least partially located on a restraint (e.g., toe piece and / or heel piece 304), one or more boots, one or more skis, and / or the user's body.

[0044] Figure 5This is a top view of the toe piece 502 of the ski binding according to an embodiment. The toe piece 502 may be the same as the toe piece 102. As shown, the toe piece 502 includes a toe spring 530, which may be a toe DIN spring. The tension of the toe spring 530 is set according to the relative position of the explosion bolt 532, which may be the same as the explosion bolt 132. The explosion bolt 532 is electrically coupled to an activation circuit 595, which may be the same as activation circuits 195, 395, 495A, or 495B. The activation circuit 595 provides electrical energy to detonate the explosion bolt 532 in response to data from a sensor in the activation circuit, the data indicating that the user is falling or in a falling state. Detonating the explosion bolt 532 releases the tension on the toe spring 530, which causes the ski binding to release the ski boot. The activation circuit 595 may be located at least partially on a binding (e.g., toe piece 502 and / or heel piece), on one or more boots, on one or more skis, and / or on the user's body.

[0045] In some embodiments, the ski binding includes both a toe piece 502 and a heel piece 304. In other embodiments, the ski binding includes only a toe piece 502 and a standard heel piece (without any expansion bolts). In other embodiments, the ski binding includes a standard toe piece (without any expansion bolts) and a heel piece 304.

[0046] In alternative embodiments, a breakable nut (explosive nut) can be used in addition to or instead of an explosive bolt. For example, in some embodiments, the ski binding may be a spring held between the explosive bolt and the breakable nut. Using both types of pyrotechnic fasteners provides redundancy in the event of failure of either. In another embodiment, the ski binding may include a spring held between a conventional (non-explosive) bolt and the breakable nut. The explosion of the breakable nut causes the spring to release tension, releasing the boot from the ski binding.

[0047] Figure 6 This is a side view of the heel piece 604 of a ski binding according to another embodiment. The heel piece 604 is identical to the heel piece 304, and is intended to include a frangible nut 600 attached to a bolt 632A to provide tension to a spring 330A. The bolt 632A can be an explosion bolt or a conventional non-explosive bolt. When the bolt 632A is an explosion bolt, the frangible nut 600 and the explosion bolt 632A can be electrically coupled to the same activation circuit 695, which can be the same as activation circuit 195. Alternatively, the frangible nut 600 and the explosion bolt 632A can be connected to separate activation circuits. In some embodiments, the frangible nut 600, the optional explosion bolt 632A, and the explosion bolt 330B can be electrically coupled to the same activation circuit.

[0048] Figure 7 This is an exploded cross-sectional view of an explosive bolt 700 according to one embodiment. The explosive bolt 700 may be the same as or different from explosive bolts 132, 332A, 332B, and / or 532. The explosive bolt 700 includes a hollow cylinder 710 or other cavity and a threaded shaft 720. The hollow cylinder 710 is disposed between the head 702 of the explosive bolt 700 and the threaded shaft 720. Explosive material 730 is disposed within the hollow cylinder 710. The explosive material 730 may include black powder (gunpowder), hexanitrostilbene, and / or other explosive materials.

[0049] The head 702 of the explosive bolt 700 includes a threaded hole 705 to receive an igniter 740. The igniter 740 is inserted through the hole 705 and placed on or in the explosive material 730 (e.g., in direct physical contact with the explosive material 730). A retaining screw 715 can be inserted into the hole 705 to hold the igniter 740 in position relative to the explosive material 730.

[0050] Igniter 740 is electrically coupled to activation circuit 795, which may be the same as or different from any activation circuit described herein (e.g., activation circuits 195, 395, 495A, 495B, 595, and / or 695). Activation circuit 795 outputs electrical power to igniter 740 (e.g., in response to sensor data indicating a skier is in a fall), igniter 740 generates a spark and / or a rapid temperature rise to ignite and detonate / explode explosive material 730. When explosive material 730 detonates or explodes, at least a portion of explosive bolt 700 (e.g., at least a portion of hollow cylinder 710) breaks, causing explosive bolt 700 to lose structural integrity and structural failure, thereby releasing tension on the spring in the ski binding to release the ski boot. In some embodiments, hollow cylinder 710 is notched 750 to facilitate breakage. The notched 750 region of hollow cylinder 710 has a smaller cross-sectional wall thickness than other portions of hollow cylinder 710. Although in Figure 7 Only one notched area 750 is shown in the figure, but in other embodiments, multiple notched areas may exist.

[0051] In some embodiments, a washer 760 may be attached to an explosive bolt 700. The washer 760 includes a body having a hole 765 defined therein. A tether 770 is disposed through the hole 765 and secured to the body of the washer 760, for example by wrapping, welding, fusion, or other attachment techniques. The tether 770 may also be attached to a ski binding 100 to prevent the explosive bolt 700 from injuring others or being ejected onto the ski slope if the explosive bolt 700 is activated or ignited.

[0052] Figure 8This is a cross-sectional view of a fragile nut 800 according to one embodiment. The fragile nut 800 may be the same as or different from the fragile nut 600. The fragile nut 800 includes an annular body 810 having a hollow region 820. Explosive material 830 is disposed in the hollow region 820. The explosive material 830 may include black powder (gunpowder), hexanitrostilbene, and / or other explosive materials.

[0053] The head body includes an aperture 840 to receive an igniter 850. The igniter 850 is inserted through the aperture 840 and positioned on or within the explosive material 830 (e.g., in direct physical contact with the explosive material). The igniter 840 is electrically coupled to an activation circuit 895, which may be the same as or different from any activation circuit described herein (e.g., activation circuits 195, 395, 495A, 495B, 595, 695, and / or 795).

[0054] Activation circuit 895 outputs electrical power to igniter 850 (e.g., in response to sensor data indicating a skier is in a fall), igniter 850 generates a spark and / or a rapid temperature rise to ignite and detonate / explode explosive material 830. When explosive material 830 detonates or explodes, at least a portion of the fragile nut 800 (e.g., at least a portion of the body 810) breaks, causing the explosive bolt 800 to lose structural integrity and structural failure, thereby releasing tension on the spring in the ski binding to release the ski boot. In some embodiments, the cross-sectional thickness of the adjacent hollow region 820 of body 810 is narrowed or removed to facilitate fracture.

[0055] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of sensor system 900. Sensor system 900 may be the same as or different from sensor 190 described above. Therefore, sensor system 900 may be included in any activation circuit described herein (e.g., activation circuits 195, 395, 495A, 495B, 595, 695, 795 and / or 895).

[0056] Sensor system 900 may include a plurality of inertial (or other types of) sensors 6900 positioned on skier 6902. The plurality of sensors 6900 may include a sensor 6904 located on the skier's hip, a sensor 6906 located on the skier's right femur, a sensor 6908 located on the skier's left femur, a sensor 6910 located on the skier's right tibia, and a sensor 6912 located on the skier's left tibia. In at least some embodiments, including but not limited to the embodiments shown, these sensors 6900 are capable of measuring: (1) triaxial acceleration via a triaxial accelerometer, (2) triaxial rotational speed via a triaxial gyroscope, and (3) absolute heading via a triaxial magnetometer. The sensors may also include a GPS sensor. In some embodiments, these sensors 6900 may, individually or in combination, determine the skier's and / or ski boot's tilt and roll.

[0057] In at least some embodiments, the one or more sensors 6900 (e.g., sensors 6904, 6906, 6908, 6910, and / or 6912) can be positioned to capture the orientation of the knee and hip joints. For this purpose, each sensor 6900 can be positioned on the leg such that the difference between relative measurements can be used to calculate knee and hip position and movement. A tibia sensor can be positioned at the mid-anterior portion of the tibia. A femoral sensor can be positioned at the central top of the femur. One or more hip sensors can be positioned above the hip and below the navel (where a belt buckle may rest), centered relative to the skier's hip.

[0058] In at least some embodiments, one or more portions of the activation circuit (e.g., activation circuit 195), such as the sensors, batteries, and / or controllers, may be integrated into or otherwise mounted on clothing or one or more other items worn by the skier.

[0059] Figure 10 It is a schematic representation of a portion of clothing that can be worn by a skier (e.g., skier 6902) according to at least some embodiments, and an activation circuit (e.g., activation circuit 195) that can be integrated into or otherwise mounted thereon.

[0060] According to at least some embodiments, clothing that can be worn by a skier (e.g., skier 6902) may include a belt 7000 and a pair of leg wraps 7002 (hot or otherwise) (only one leg is shown), which may be sewn into the lining of ski pants worn by the skier, or may be provided separately and worn accordingly.

[0061] Sensors positioned on the skier's legs, such as sensor 6906-6912 ( Figure 8 It can be integrated into or otherwise installed on the leg wrap 7002.

[0062] The wiring harness (or any other form of wiring) 7004 can distribute power to some or all of the sensors located on the skier's legs and distribute and / or receive communication signals from some or all of the sensors located on the skier's legs. In at least some embodiments, the wiring harness can be routed along the internal seams of the leg to help reduce potential damage from falls and general abuse. In at least some embodiments, the wiring can take the form of a power and communication bus that can connect to the sensors. In some embodiments, the power and / or communication bus can extend the length of the leg strap 7002.

[0063] One or more other portions 7006 of the activation circuit may be integrated into or otherwise mounted on the belt 7000. In at least some embodiments, these other portions 7006 may include: (1) a motherboard including a microprocessor (e.g., controller 180), (2) a radio means for communicating (via Bluetooth or otherwise) with a smartphone, smartwatch, wearable wireless device and / or network-enabled device, (3) a battery (e.g., battery 160) for powering the activation circuit or portions thereof, (4) a battery charging circuit means, (5) a waist sensor and / or (6) one or more visible network status indicators, integrated into or otherwise mounted on the belt 7000. In at least some embodiments, the motherboard itself includes: (2) a wireless device for communicating with a smartphone, smartwatch or similar wearable device, and / or a network (Bluetooth or other) enabled device; (3) a battery; (4) a battery charging circuit; (5) a waist sensor and / or (6) one or more visual network status indicators, and is integrated into or otherwise mounted on the circuit board.

[0064] Data from sensors (e.g., sensors 6900-6912 and / or one or more sensors 190) can be sampled (continuously or otherwise) by a microprocessor (e.g., controller 180).

[0065] In at least some embodiments, the process may include a model of the skier. In at least some embodiments, the model is a physiological model used to “observe” all sensors. In at least some embodiments, the sensor data is provided to the model, which may generate one or more signals in response to at least this sensor data. The sensor data may be combined using a digital filter that incorporates the model to recursively update the current skier’s orientation, speed, and / or heading. Such data can be used to predict whether a potential injury will occur. In at least some embodiments, the ski binding 100 is safely released before injury occurs.

[0066] In at least some embodiments, the microprocessor (e.g., controller 180) may be responsible for updating the skier model, determining release decisions (i.e., decisions about whether to release the ski boots), recording performance data, and / or communicating with applications on user devices and / or separate computers.

[0067] In at least some embodiments, the skier model may include a set of equations related to model inputs and sensor readings. Variants of conventional Kalman filtering can be used to integrate the set of equations to output limb and body position, velocity, and muscle activity.

[0068] In at least some embodiments, the skier's model is used as an "observer" within the feedback structure, thereby informing predictions of future body position; however, incorrect predictions can update the model if necessary. In this way, the algorithm is able to predict the risk of ACL damage and skier injury (or other undesirable outcomes of accidents in these or other sports and activities).

[0069] In at least some embodiments, the activation circuitry may include a self-testing process for the purpose of measuring and diagnosing the health of each critical component. In at least some embodiments, the results of the system check are readable via ski binding lights with a pre-programmed sequence (e.g., red, yellow, green, flashing red) and / or via a smartphone application that may contain more detailed diagnostics (or may be implemented in any suitable form factor, such as on a smartwatch). Each system check result can be tracked via a personal profile linked to the binding to alert the skier to component damage indicating health deterioration.

[0070] In at least some embodiments, the system checks and isolates key system features including: (1) a retainer release mechanism via current and position monitors, (2) sensor response and calibration via user action sequences, and / or (3) software and firmware version control.

[0071] In at least some embodiments, if a system check determines that the system is unsuitable for the sport (e.g., skiing), the system will not allow the bindings to close and the user will not be able to use the bindings or their features. Logs may be stored for individual diagnostic troubleshooting.

[0072] In at least some embodiments, a wired or wireless controller is mounted on a ski binding, ski pole, or user's clothing to manually activate the explosion bolts and / or breakable nuts to release one or more ski bindings. In at least some embodiments, a system check is performed on each ski binding. In at least some embodiments, the user does not need access to their phone to use the system. All controls are ergonomic for gloved skiers, for which smartwatches or sporty wearable wristbands can be used.

[0073] Numerous studies have investigated appropriate DIN (German Standards Institute) numbers for the release force settings of ski bindings, for ski bindings across gender and age boundaries, typically taking into account the number of erroneous releases compared to the number of ankle and knee injuries resulting from lack of release. In at least some embodiments, a broad profile should allow data to be better correlated with the physical conditions most relevant to the likelihood of ACL injury.

[0074] In at least some embodiments, the skier model is initially calibrated for the skier through extensive physical assessments. The model may include: (1) a questionnaire with conventional height, weight, skiing ability, gender, and age; (2) a model using sensors for limb length, morphology, and muscle tissue; and (3) a process for updating the model based on skiing performance. For example, the forces and positions of the sensor array may be compared to expectations from the model and updated accordingly, and / or (4) a database tracking each model, skiing data, and an event log recording releases and their conditions may be maintained to better predict misses, false alarms, or hits. (Miss = release when it should have been released, False Alarm (FA) = release when it shouldn't have been released, Hit = release when it should have been released).

[0075] In at least some embodiments, the ski model and data recording can be used by an individual or instructor to measure a skier's performance for safe and appropriate skiing techniques. In at least some embodiments, the system may include software (artificial intelligence software or other software) to flag where poor or unsafe techniques are measured. The software may record data required for visual replay. In at least some embodiments, similar to a race car driver re-driving a track or runway, a user will be able to replay their downhill motion via a simulator or other similar device.

[0076] In at least some embodiments, the system can be used to enhance a skier’s performance in real time through assistive systems such as: (1) ski reinforcement, (2) muscle / limb enhancement, (3) ski shape deformation and / or (4) track / topography map.

[0077] In at least some embodiments, the ski binding system may be a suitable platform for integrating multiple safety features, which are particularly useful for cross-country skiing. These may include (1) position tracking, (2) avalanche detection, (3) an emergency alarm system and / or (4) audible and visual signals.

[0078] Figure 11This is a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of activation circuit 1100. Activation circuit 1100 may be the same as the activation circuit described above, including activation circuit 195. Any pyrotechnic fasteners described herein (e.g., explosive bolts, breakable nuts) may be coupled to activation circuit 1100, such as explosive bolt 132, explosive bolt 332A, explosive bolt 332B, explosive bolt 532, breakable nut 600, and / or explosive bolt 700. Therefore, activation circuit 1100 can be used to trigger the activation, detonation, and / or explosion of one or more explosive pyrotechnic fasteners to release a given ski boot / fixture.

[0079] Activation circuitry 1100 may include processor circuitry 5560, multiple sensors (sometimes referred to herein as sensor systems, such as sensor system 700) 5562, one or more power circuits 5564, and one or more radio devices 5594. Processor 5560 may include one or more processors or microprocessors of any type. In some embodiments, a microprocessor-based controller 180 may include processor 5560. Alternatively, processor 5560 may include controller 180. In a particular embodiment, processor 5560 may include a microcontroller, such as the LPC5526 microcontroller available from NXP Semiconductors NV. Multiple sensors 5562 may include any type of sensor, such as one or more sensors 190, 6900-6912. One or more power circuits 5564 may include one or more power circuits of any type, including circuitry 150, battery 160, and switch 170.

[0080] In at least some embodiments, one or more power circuits 5564 may include one or more power supplies 5570 and one or more power switches 5572 (e.g., which may be the same as switch 170). The one or more power supplies 5570 may include one or more batteries (rechargeable or otherwise), such as battery 160 (e.g., a 9V battery), and / or one or more power supplies of any other type. The one or more power switches 5572 may include one or more power semiconductor devices and / or one or more power switches of any other type. In some embodiments, the one or more power supplies 5570 may include a voltage regulator (e.g., to regulate the output voltage of the power supply to a predetermined voltage such as 3V or 3.3V). When the one or more power supplies 5570 include a rechargeable battery, the one or more power supplies 5570 may include a battery charger (e.g., via a physical port such as a USB port) and / or a charging manager (e.g., which allows activation circuitry 1100 to operate by disconnecting the battery during charging).

[0081] One or more radio devices 5594 may include short-range and / or long-range radio devices, such as Bluetooth radio devices, cellular radio devices, WiFi radio devices, or other radio devices. One or more radio devices 5594 may be used to communicate with user equipment 5592. Additionally or alternatively, one or more radio devices 5594 may be used to communicate with a corresponding radio device on a second activation circuit to release a second ski boot / binding. For example, one or more radio devices 5594 may be used to synchronize activation signals such that when one activation circuit 1100 generates an activation signal (e.g., releasing the ski binding of the skier's left boot), another activation circuit will also generate an activation signal (e.g., releasing the ski binding of the skier's right boot).

[0082] Alternatively, one or more radio devices 5594 can be used to confirm, based on sensor data from sensors coupled to the respective activation circuits, that the two activation circuits have independently determined that the skier has fallen (or is falling, e.g., is in a falling state), such that an activation signal should be generated to release the ski binding. This confirmation can be used to prevent unnecessary release of the ski binding when the skier has not yet fallen. In another embodiment, sensor data from each activation circuit can be shared between processors 5560 and / or with user equipment 5592. In one example, user equipment 5592 can determine whether to release the ski binding based on sensor data from sensors in each activation circuit (e.g., sensors for both boots / legs), in which case user equipment 5592 can send a user equipment signal or command to each processor 5560 in each activation circuit 1100 to release the corresponding ski binding.

[0083] The activation circuit 1100 may also include multiple signal lines or other communication links 5566 coupling the processor 5560 to multiple sensors 5562 and one or more radio devices 5594. Furthermore, the activation circuit 1100 may include one or more control lines or other communication links 5568 coupling the processor 5560 to one or more power circuits 5564.

[0084] The activation circuit 1100 may also include one or more power lines or other power links 5574 from one or more power circuits 5564 to one or more pyrotechnic fasteners such as explosive bolts 132, 332A, 332B, 532, 600, 700 and / or 800.

[0085] The activation circuit 1100 may also include a plurality of status indicators 5580 and a plurality of signal lines or other communication links 5582 coupling the processor 5560 to the plurality of status indicators 5580. The plurality of status indicators 5580 may indicate one or more states of the activation circuit 1100 and / or one or more pyrotechnic fasteners (e.g., igniters for pyrotechnic fasteners). The activation circuit 1100 may also include one or more communication links 5590 to one or more user equipment 5592 and / or external components or networks. The user equipment 5592 may include a smartphone, tablet, and / or any other type of computing device (mobile or otherwise). The communication links 5590 and / or one or more radio devices 5594 may be used to send software or firmware updates from the user equipment 5592 to any part of the activation circuit 1100.

[0086] In at least some embodiments, one or more user devices 5592 may include a computing device (e.g., smartphone, tablet or other) of a user who is using and / or will use a ski binding including a pyrotechnic fastener.

[0087] In operation, in at least some embodiments, processor 5560 receives one or more signals from one or more of a plurality of sensors 5562 or otherwise indicating one or more conditions of a skier, and determines, at least in part, whether (and / or when) to trigger activation of the pyrotechnic fastener (e.g., ignition, reaction, detonation, and / or explosion) to initiate the release of ski boot 110 from ski binding 100 based on these signals. In at least some embodiments, if processor 5560 determines to initiate release, processor 5560 generates one or more control signals to initiate or trigger release, these control signals may be provided to one or more power circuits 5564 via one or more control lines or other communication links 5568. One or more power circuits 5564 receive one or more control signals from processor 5560, and, at least in response to these control signals, close power switch 5572 to provide power to the pyrotechnic fastener via one or more of one or more power lines or other one or more power links 5574. The power activation (e.g., ignition, reaction, detonation, and / or explosion) provided to the pyrotechnic fastener is contained within the explosive material to release tension on the spring and release the ski boot from the ski binding.

[0088] In at least some embodiments, one or more power sources 5570 may include one or more rechargeable batteries, such as lithium-ion batteries, lithium polymer batteries, and / or capacitors. In some embodiments, the capacitor may include a portion of a stack of skis (e.g., ski 102). In some embodiments, the activation circuit 1100 may include a piezoelectric transducer that harvests energy from vibrations of the skis (e.g., ski 120) during use and uses such energy to recharge the batteries and / or capacitors.

[0089] In at least some embodiments, the plurality of sensors 5562 may include one or more strain gauges, pressure transducers, gyroscopes, accelerometers, magnetometers, and / or other sensors (collectively referred to as sensors). Such sensors may be attached to skis 120, ski boots 110, and / or other equipment or clothing worn by the skier and / or skier. In some embodiments, one or more sensors, such as pressure sensors, may be located inside the boot 110, for example, between the plastic shell and the soft padding of the boot 110. In some embodiments, sensor 5562 may be the same as sensor 6900. For example, sensor 5562 may include a triaxial accelerometer (e.g., for measuring triaxial acceleration), a triaxial gyroscope (e.g., for measuring triaxial rotational speed), and / or a triaxial magnetometer (e.g., for measuring absolute direction, such as in a compass). Sensor 5562 may also include a GPS sensor. In some embodiments, sensor 5562 may individually or in combination determine the tilt and roll of the skier and / or ski boot. In some embodiments, when a GPS sensor indicates that a skier is passing over or heading toward a predetermined boundary on a ski slope, the controller of the activation circuit can activate an explosive bolt and / or a breakable nut, the predetermined boundary being, for example, the edge of the ski slope, the edge of the track (e.g., where a net may be installed), trees, or other hazards. One or more boundaries may be manually provided to the controller before the competition, or they may be automatically provided by the ski area or ski competition organizer.

[0090] In another embodiment, one or more boundaries of the ski slope can be created by placing a signal generating device at predetermined locations on the ski slope. For example, an antenna can be placed along the boundary or a mesh, and signal strength and / or signal triangulation measurements can be used by an activation circuit controller, using sensor 5562 and / or one or more radio devices 5594, to determine when to activate one or more explosive bolts and / or one or more fragile nuts. Alternatively, wires can be placed along the boundary on or under the snow. Current can pass through the wires to generate electric and magnetic fields. The electric and / or magnetic fields can be sensed by sensor 5562 to activate one or more explosive bolts and / or one or more fragile nuts using the activation circuit controller.

[0091] In at least some embodiments, the processor 5560 may continuously receive signals from a plurality of sensors 5562 and determine, at least in part, whether (and / or when) to initiate the release of the boot 110 from the retainer 100 based on these signals.

[0092] In at least some embodiments, any fixation 100 disclosed herein may include a control system having one or more portions that are the same as and / or similar to one or more portions of the activation circuitry 1100 of the fixation system 100.

[0093] In some embodiments, some or all of the activation circuitry 1100 may be included on the system-on-chip and / or on a common circuit board.

[0094] Any activation circuit disclosed herein (e.g., activation circuits 195, 395, 495A, 495B, 595, 695, 795, 895, and / or 1100) can be manually or automatically activated. A skier can manually actuate one or more exploding bolts and / or one or more fragile nuts by pressing a manual actuation device (e.g., a button) electrically coupled (e.g., via a wired or wireless connection) to a controller of a corresponding one or more actuation circuits to manually detonate one or more exploding bolts and / or one or more fragile nuts. For example, pressing the manual actuation device can generate a manual actuation signal, which is sent to the controller of the corresponding one or more actuation circuits, causing the controller of the one or more activation circuits to activate one or more exploding bolts and / or one or more fragile nuts. In another embodiment, one or more explosive bolts and / or one or more fragile nuts may be manually activated by a third party (e.g., a member of a skier's team (e.g., an instructor, etc.) or a safety officer) using a wireless communication device (e.g., a smartphone, tablet, laptop, or other wireless device). The wireless communication device may wirelessly transmit a manual activation signal to a controller of one or more corresponding activation circuits, which causes the controller of one or more activation circuits to activate one or more explosive bolts and / or fragile nuts.

[0095] Figure 12 This is a block diagram of architecture 1200 according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, one or more systems (or one or more portions thereof), apparatus (or one or more portions thereof), and / or devices (or one or more portions thereof) disclosed herein may have the same and / or similar architecture as one or more portions of architecture 1200.

[0096] In some embodiments, one or more methods (or portions thereof) disclosed herein may be performed by a system, apparatus, and / or device having an architecture that is the same as or similar to architecture 1200 (or portions thereof). This architecture may be implemented as a distributed architecture or a non-distributed architecture.

[0097] Architecture 1200 may include one or more processors 5510 and one or more non-transitory computer-readable storage media (e.g., memory 5520 and / or one or more non-volatile storage media 5530). Processor 5510 may control the writing of data to and from memory 5520 and non-volatile storage media 5530 (e.g., non-transitory computer-readable media) in any suitable manner. The storage media may store one or more programs and / or other information for the operation of architecture 1100. In at least some embodiments, the one or more programs include one or more instructions that will be executed by processor 5510 to perform one or more portions of one or more tasks and / or one or more portions of one or more methods disclosed herein. In some embodiments, other information may include data for one or more portions of one or more tasks and / or one or more portions of one or more methods disclosed herein. In order to perform any of the functions described herein, processor 5510 may execute one or more processor-executable instructions stored in one or more non-transitory computer-readable storage media (e.g., memory 5520 and / or one or more non-volatile storage media 5530).

[0098] In at least some embodiments, architecture 1200 may include one or more communication devices 5540, which can be used to interconnect the architecture to one or more other devices and / or systems, such as, for example, one or more networks of any suitable form, including local area networks or wide area networks, such as enterprise networks, artificial intelligence networks, machine learning networks, intelligent networks, or the Internet. Such networks may be based on any suitable technology and may operate in accordance with any suitable protocol, and may include wireless or wired networks.

[0099] In at least some embodiments, architecture 1200 may have one or more input devices 5545 and / or one or more output devices 5550. These devices, among others, can be used to present a user interface. Examples of output devices that can be used to provide a user interface include a printer or display screen for visual presentation of output, and a speaker or other sound-generating device for auditory presentation of output. Examples of input devices that can be used for a user interface include a keyboard and pointing devices such as a mouse, touchpad, and digitizer. As another example, architecture 1200 may receive input information via speech recognition or in other audible formats.

[0100] Figure 13 A mobile platform 1300 configured and arranged according to this disclosure is shown. Platform 1300 includes a sensor 1310, processor circuitry 1320, a power supply 1330, and wireless communication 1340. Optionally, sensor 1310 includes a GPS subunit 1315 and other circuitry and components to implement the above features. Sensor 1310 may be the same as or different from sensor 190. Processor circuitry 1320 may be the same as or different from controller 180. Furthermore, power supply 1330 may be the same as or may include battery 160.

[0101] Figure 14 A cloud-based or networked architecture 1400 for implementing this system and method is illustrated, including coupling a network-accessible database or memory 1410 (e.g., a network-accessible server) and components to a mobile platform 1420, a user device 1430, or other electronic and data processing components. The network-accessible database or memory 1410 may store skier models, datasets, statistics, and model update algorithms, and may provide a web interface to this data. The mobile platform 1420 may store threshold parameters, such as sensor settings for initiating restraint release, and recent data logs. The user device 1430 may store data summaries and provide an interface to activation circuitry.

[0102] Figure 15 This is a flowchart 1500 of an automated method for releasing a ski binding with one or more pyrotechnic fasteners, according to one embodiment. In step 1510, a microprocessor-based controller receives sensor data from one or more sensors located on the skier (e.g., on the skier's body and / or clothing) and / or on the skier's equipment (e.g., ski bindings, ski boots, skis, and / or poles). In step 1520, the controller evaluates the sensor data to determine the skier's state. For example, the controller may compare the sensor data to a model of the skier. The controller may also evaluate the sensor data for sudden changes in orientation and / or acceleration that may indicate the skier has fallen (e.g., is in a falling state).

[0103] When the controller determines that the skier is in a fall, in step 1530, the controller generates an output signal (e.g., a trigger signal) that activates (e.g., ignites, reacts, detonates, and / or explodes) the explosive material in the pyrotechnic fastener of the ski binding. The pyrotechnic fastener may be an explosive bolt, a breakable nut, or another type of pyrotechnic fastener. The pyrotechnic fastener is used to releasably hold the spring in the ski binding in a first state that secures the ski boot in the ski binding. The output signal causes a switch in the activation circuit to switch from an off state to an on state. In the off state, the pyrotechnic fastener is electrically disconnected from the battery. In the on state, the pyrotechnic fastener is electrically coupled to the battery. Electrical energy from the battery ignites and explodes the explosive material, which at least partially destroys or damages the pyrotechnic fastener, thereby switching the spring to a second state in step 1540 that releases (or at least partially releases) the ski boot from the ski binding.

[0104] Figure 16 This is a flowchart 1600 of a method for releasing a ski binding with one or more pyrotechnic fasteners according to another embodiment. In step 1610, a microprocessor-based controller receives a manual activation signal from an external device. The external device may include a manual release device (e.g., a button or lever) that is accessible to the skier while skiing (e.g., on the skier's clothing or ski equipment (e.g., poles, helmet, goggles, etc.)). The manual release device is electrically connected (e.g., using a wired and / or wireless connection) to a controller of one or more activation circuits for one or more pyrotechnic fasteners in the ski binding for the skier. Pressing the manual release button / lever causes a manual activation signal, which, using a wired and / or wireless connection, is sent from the manual release button / lever to one or more activation circuit controllers. For example, one or more activation circuit controllers may be electrically coupled to a radio device capable of wirelessly receiving the manual activation signal. Alternatively, one or more wires may electrically couple the manual release button / lever and the activation circuit controllers.

[0105] In another embodiment, the external device may include a manual release button / lever or a computer (e.g., a smartphone, tablet, laptop, etc.) accessible to people other than the skier, such as members of the skier's racing team or members of the security personnel for the race. The manual release button / lever and / or the computer communicates electrically (e.g., using a wireless connection) with a controller of one or more activation circuits for the pyrotechnic fasteners in the skier's ski bindings. The computer may include a soft button or a hard button that generates a manual activation signal. Soft / hard buttons can serve as manual release devices.

[0106] In step 1620, the controller of at least one activation circuit in the ski binding generates an output signal (e.g., a trigger signal) that causes the switch in the corresponding activation circuit to transition from an off state to an on state.

[0107] In step 1630, the corresponding pyrotechnic fastener is activated (e.g., ignited, reacted, detonated, and / or exploded) to release (or at least partially release) the skier's ski boot from the ski bindings in step 1640. Further details regarding the activation of the pyrotechnic fastener are described herein, including step 1530 above. The pyrotechnic fastener may be an exploding bolt, a breakable nut, or another type of pyrotechnic fastener.

[0108] Figure 17 This is a flowchart 1700 of a method for releasing a ski binding with one or more pyrotechnic fasteners according to another embodiment. In step 1710, a microprocessor-based controller receives sensor data from one or more sensors. This sensor data relates to the boundary of a ski slope or track. The boundary can be the edge of a ski slope, such as where trees or ski lifts are located. Alternatively, the boundary can be the edge of a track, such as where safety netting may be located.

[0109] For example, antennas can be placed along the boundary and signal strength and / or signal triangulation to determine when to activate one or more explosive bolts and / or one or more fragile nuts. Alternatively, wires can be placed along the boundary on or under the snow. Current can pass through the wires to generate electric and magnetic fields. The electric and / or magnetic fields can be sensed by sensors to activate one or more explosive bolts and / or one or more fragile nuts using an activation circuit controller. In another example, a GPS sensor indicates the skier's position relative to one or more boundaries. One or more boundaries can be manually provided to the controller before the race, or they can be automatically provided by the ski area or ski race organizer.

[0110] In step 1720, the controller evaluates sensor data to determine whether the skier is at or near the boundary. For example, the strength of electromagnetic (e.g., radio) signals from an antenna or the strength of an electric or magnetic field from a wire can be used to determine whether the skier is at or near the boundary. In another example, the controller may compare the current GPS coordinates with the boundary GPS coordinates to determine whether the skier is at or near the boundary. In some embodiments, in addition to the current GPS coordinates, the controller may also use the skier's past GPS coordinates to determine the skier's trajectory and / or speed.

[0111] In step 1730, when the controller determines that the skier is at or near the boundary, the controller generates an output signal (e.g., a trigger signal) that activates (e.g., ignites, reacts, detonates, and / or explodes) the explosive material in the pyrotechnic fastener of the ski binding. The pyrotechnic fastener may be an explosive bolt, a breakable nut, or another type of pyrotechnic fastener. The pyrotechnic fastener is used to releasably hold the spring in the ski binding in a first state that secures the ski boot in the ski binding. The output signal causes a switch in the activation circuit to transition from an off state to an on state. In the off state, the pyrotechnic fastener is electrically disconnected from the battery. In the on state, the pyrotechnic fastener is electrically coupled to the battery. Electrical energy from the battery ignites and explodes the explosive material, which at least partially destroys or damages the pyrotechnic fastener, thereby transitioning the spring to a second state in step 1740 that releases (or at least partially releases) the ski boot from the ski binding.

[0112] Having described several aspects and embodiments of the technology described herein, it should be understood that various changes, modifications, and improvements will readily occur to those skilled in the art. These changes, modifications, and improvements are all within the spirit and scope of the technology described herein. For example, those skilled in the art will readily conceive of various other means and / or structures for performing the functions described herein and / or obtaining the results and / or one or more advantages described herein, and each of these changes and / or modifications is considered to be within the scope of the embodiments described herein. Furthermore, while embodiments have been described with respect to sports equipment for alpine skiing, it should be recognized that aspects of the invention are also applicable to cross-country skiing, waterskiing, snowboarding, surfboarding, and / or other skiing or board sports.

[0113] Those skilled in the art will recognize many equivalents of the specific embodiments described herein. Therefore, it should be understood that the foregoing embodiments are given by way of example only, and that embodiments of the invention may be practiced in ways other than those specifically described within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents. Furthermore, any combination of two or more features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and / or methods described herein, provided that such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and / or methods do not contradict each other, is included within the scope of this disclosure.

[0114] The above embodiments can be implemented in a variety of ways. One or more aspects and embodiments of this application relating to the execution of processes or methods can be executed or controlled using program instructions executable by a device (e.g., a computer, processor, or other device).

[0115] In this regard, various inventive concepts can be embodied in a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium (or multiple non-transitory computer-readable storage media) encoded with one or more programs (e.g., a computer memory, one or more floppy disks, hard disks, optical disks, magnetic tapes, flash memory, circuit configurations in field-programmable gate arrays or other semiconductor devices, or other tangible computer storage media), which, when executed on one or more computers or other processors, performs one or more methods implementing the various embodiments described above.

[0116] One or more computer-readable media may be transportable, such that one or more programs stored thereon may be loaded onto one or more different computers or other processors to implement one or more of the aspects described above. In some embodiments, the computer-readable medium may be a non-transitory medium.

[0117] The terms “program” and “software” are used herein in a general sense to refer to any type of computer code or set of computer-executable instructions that can be used to program a computer or other processor to implement the various aspects described above. Furthermore, it should be understood that, according to one aspect, one or more computer programs that perform the methods of this application during execution do not need to reside on a single computer or processor, but can be distributed in a modular manner among multiple different computers or processors to implement the various aspects of this application.

[0118] Computer-executable instructions can take many forms, such as program modules, and can be executed by one or more computers or other devices. Generally, program modules include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, etc., that perform specific tasks or implement specific abstract data types. In various embodiments, the functionality of program modules can be combined or distributed as needed.

[0119] Furthermore, data structures can be stored in any suitable form on a computer-readable medium. For simplicity, a data structure can be represented as having fields that are related by their position within the data structure. Such relationships can also be implemented by assigning storage to fields with positions that convey the relationships between the fields in a computer-readable medium. However, any suitable mechanism can be used to establish relationships between the information in the fields of a data structure, including by using pointers, labels, or other mechanisms that establish relationships between data elements.

[0120] Furthermore, as described, some aspects can be embodied as one or more methods. Actions performed as part of a method can be ordered in any suitable manner. Therefore, embodiments can be constructed in which actions are performed in a different order than those shown, which may include performing some actions simultaneously, even if they are shown as sequential actions in the illustrative embodiments.

Claims

1. A device for automatically releasing ski boots, comprising: A ski binding, the ski binding including a spring having a first state of securing the ski boot in the ski binding and a second state of releasing the ski boot from the ski binding; An explosive bolt, which is mechanically connected to the spring to releasably retain the spring in the first state; Battery; An activation circuit extending from the explosive bolt to the battery includes a switch having a connected state and a disconnected state, wherein in the connected state the battery and the explosive bolt are electrically connected via the switch, and in the disconnected state the battery and the explosive bolt are electrically disconnected; as well as A processor-based controller, electrically coupled to the switch, is configured to automatically generate an output signal in response to input signals from one or more sensors. The output signal switches the switch from the off state to the connected state to activate the explosive bolt. The activation of the explosive bolt causes at least a portion of the bolt to break, causing the spring to switch from the first state to the second state, thereby releasing the ski boot from the ski binding.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: The explosive bolt includes a hollow cylinder, and The explosive material is placed inside the hollow cylinder.

3. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the explosive bolt comprises a head and a threaded shaft, and the hollow cylinder is disposed between the head and the threaded shaft.

4. The apparatus according to claim 3, wherein: The explosive bolts include an igniter, and An opening is defined in the head to receive the igniter.

5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the igniter is electrically coupled to the activation circuit.

6. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the hollow cylinder includes grooves to facilitate fracture of the hollow cylinder.

7. The device according to claim 1, wherein the spring is a heel DIN spring, a forward compression spring, or a toe DIN spring.

8. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: A fragile nut is mechanically coupled to the explosive bolt, and a spring is disposed between the fragile nut and the explosive bolt. The fragile nut is electrically coupled to the activation circuit.

9. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a plurality of explosive bolts, wherein: The ski binding includes multiple springs, each spring having a first state and a second state, and Each explosive bolt is mechanically connected to a corresponding spring to releasably secure the corresponding spring in a first state.

10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the activation circuit is electrically coupled to each explosive bolt.

11. The apparatus of claim 9 further comprises a plurality of activation circuits, each activation circuit being electrically coupled to a corresponding explosive bolt.

12. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the activation circuits are electrically connected to each other.

13. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a tether attached to the explosive bolt and the ski binding.

14. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a bolt retaining housing disposed on the explosive bolt, the bolt retaining housing having a cavity that receives the explosive bolt when the explosive bolt is activated.

15. An automated method for releasing a ski boot from a ski binding, comprising: The processor-based controller receives sensor data from multiple sensors located on the skier, ski boots, and / or ski bindings; In the processor-based controller, the sensor data is evaluated to determine the skier's condition; When the processor-based controller determines that the skier is in a falling state, it automatically generates an output signal to activate the pyrotechnic fastener in the ski binding, which holds the spring in the ski binding in a first state that secures the ski boot in the ski binding. An explosion is generated using the pyrotechnic fastener, and the explosion causes at least a portion of the pyrotechnic fastener to break. as well as The spring is switched from the first state to the second state to release the ski boot from the ski.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the pyrotechnic fastener comprises an explosive bolt.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein the explosive bolt is disposed in the heel of the ski binding.

18. The method of claim 15, wherein evaluating the sensor data comprises: The sensor data is compared with the model of the skier.

19. The method of claim 15, wherein activating the pyrotechnic fastener comprises changing the state of a switch from an off state to an on state, the switch electrically coupling the battery to the pyrotechnic fastener in the on state.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein when the switch is in the connected state, the switch electrically couples the battery to the igniter in the pyrotechnic fastener.

21. An automated method for releasing a ski boot from a ski binding, comprising: Sensor data, corresponding to the skier's position on the ski slope, is received by a processor-based controller. The processor-based controller determines when the skier is at or near the boundary of the ski slope; as well as When the processor-based controller determines that the skier is at or near the boundary, it automatically generates an output signal to activate the pyrotechnic fastener in the ski binding, which holds the spring in the ski binding in a first state that secures the ski boot in the ski binding. An explosion is generated using the pyrotechnic fastener, and the explosion causes at least a portion of the pyrotechnic fastener to break. as well as The spring is switched from the first state to the second state to release the ski boot from the ski.

22. The method of claim 21, wherein the sensor data includes GPS data.

23. The method of claim 21, wherein the sensor data includes electromagnetic signals.

24. An automated method for releasing a ski boot from a ski binding, comprising: The processor-based controller wirelessly receives a manual activation signal from the manual release device; Using the processor-based controller, an output signal is automatically generated in response to the manual activation signal to activate the pyrotechnic fastener in the ski binding, which holds the spring in the ski binding in a first state that secures the ski boot in the ski binding; An explosion is generated using the pyrotechnic fastener, and the explosion causes at least a portion of the pyrotechnic fastener to break. as well as The spring is switched from the first state to the second state to release the ski boot from the ski.

25. The method of claim 24, wherein the manual release device comprises a button or lever disposed on the skier's clothing or ski equipment.

26. The method of claim 24, wherein the manual release device is operated by a person other than the skier.

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