BINDING DEVICE FOR SLIDING BOARD

Description

Technical field of the invention

[0001] The invention relates to a fastening device for securing a shoe to a ski board. The invention further relates to a fastening device comprising an adjustment mechanism adapted for adjusting the longitudinal position of the shoe on a ski board. The invention also relates to a piece of skiing equipment, particularly cross-country skiing equipment, comprising such a fastening device. Prior art

[0002] For snow sports, particularly cross-country skiing, each skier's boot is attached to a ski by a binding. This binding transmits the forces exerted by the skier's feet to the ski. Specifically, the binding secures the toe to the ski by rotating it around an axis transverse to the ski. This allows the skier to lift their heel off the ski while keeping the front of their boot attached to the ski. This enables them to generate momentum and move forward on the snow.

[0003] The position of a user's feet on a board is crucial. Depending on the conditions or the user's skill level, it can be beneficial to adjust the longitudinal position of their feet on the board. In particular, for cross-country skiing, shifting the foot forward on the ski improves grip and facilitates progress. Conversely, shifting the foot backward provides a better gliding sensation.

[0004] To allow adjustment of the user's foot position on a board, fastening devices equipped with a position adjustment mechanism are known. Manipulating the adjustment mechanism allows the position of a boot retention means to be modified relative to the board, particularly along the board's length. However, known prior art position adjustment devices are impractical to use. They are not suitable for making quick and precise adjustments to the foot's position, especially during board sports. Known adjustment devices are either complex and unintuitive to operate, or they offer overly limited adjustment possibilities. Document FR2870750 B1 discloses such a device corresponding to the preamble of claim 1. Presentation of the invention

[0005] The object of the invention is to provide a fastening device that remedies the above disadvantages and improves upon known fastening devices of the prior art.

[0006] More specifically, a first object of the invention is a fastening device comprising a simple and intuitive adjustment device to operate.

[0007] A second object of the invention is a fastening device allowing precise adjustment of the position of a foot on the sliding board. Summary of the invention

[0008] The invention relates to a front fastening device for retaining a shoe to a snowboard, the fastening device comprising: a restraint means capable of cooperating with a front part of a shoe, and an adjustment device for adjusting the position of the restraint means relative to a ski board, the adjustment device comprising: a structured element comprising a series of reliefs, the structured element being intended to be mounted integrally with the sliding board, a locking element movable between a locking position in which it is engaged with the structured element to block the position of the restraint means, and an unlocking position in which it is disengaged from the structured element to adjust the position of the restraint means, and an operating element supported by the restraint means and intended to be operated by a user, the operating element being movable in rotation about a first axis parallel to a vertical axis, the operating element being movable between at least a first position and a second position,The operating element is supported against a bearing surface of the locking element such that the locking element moves from its locked position to its unlocked position when the operating element is actuated from its first position to its second position. It also includes a mechanical transmission means between the operating element and a support intended to be mounted securely to the sliding board, or between the operating element and a fastening element capable of being held securely to the structured element. The transmission means is configured such that: a rotation of the operating element in a first direction of rotation causes the restraint means to move in a first direction, and / or a rotation of the operating element in a second direction of rotation, opposite to the first direction of rotation, causes the restraint means to move in a second direction, opposite to the first direction.

[0009] According to one embodiment, the fastening device comprises a chassis that moves in translation relative to the structured element, the retaining means and the operating element being supported by the chassis.

[0010] According to one embodiment, the locking element is movable in rotation around a second axis parallel to a transverse axis, the second axis being fixed to said chassis.

[0011] According to one embodiment, the locking element includes a locking finger adapted to cooperate with the structured element, the locking finger and the bearing surface of the locking element being arranged on either side of the second axis.

[0012] According to one embodiment, the fastening device includes a return means tending to move the locking element towards its locking position.

[0013] According to one embodiment, the retention means comprises an elastic blade, said return means being formed by a part of the elastic blade.

[0014] According to one embodiment, the operating element comprises at least one cam, a rotation of the operating element around the first axis causing the cam to press against the bearing surface of the locking element tending to move the locking element towards its unlocking position.

[0015] According to one embodiment, the operating element comprises a plurality of cams intended to bear against the bearing surface of the locking element, the locking element being in its unlocked position when the bearing surface is in contact with one cam among the plurality of cams, the locking element being in its locked position when the bearing surface is in contact with the operating element between two adjacent cams.

[0016] In one embodiment, the transmission means comprises a cable, the cable being intended to be at least partially wound around the operating element when the operating element pivots about the first axis. The operating element may comprise at least one groove, preferably two grooves, in which the cable is intended to be wound.

[0017] According to one embodiment, the fastening device includes a pulley, the support being positioned between the operating element and the pulley, the transmission means comprising a first strand and a second strand, the first strand directly connecting the support to the operating element, the second strand connecting the support to the operating element via the pulley.

[0018] The fastening device may include a means for adjusting the cable tension.

[0019] According to one embodiment, the operating element is also movable in translation parallel to the first axis between its first position and its second position.

[0020] The operating element can be locked in rotation when it is in its first position.

[0021] The invention also relates to a gliding equipment comprising a gliding board, in particular a cross-country ski, and a fastening device as defined above. Presentation of the figures

[0022] These objects, features and advantages of the present invention will be described in detail in the following description of various embodiments presented by way of non-limiting example, and in relation to the accompanying figures, among which: There figure 1 is a schematic top view of a sliding device according to a first embodiment of the invention. figure 2is a perspective view of a device for attaching sliding equipment to the figure 1 . There figure 3 is an exploded and perspective view of the fastening device of the figure 2 . There figure 4 is a view of the underside of a moving part of the fastening device figure 2 . There figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of the fastening device of the figure 2 , a locking element of the fastening device being in the unlocked position. figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of the fastening device of the figure 2 the locking element of the fastening device being in the locked position. figure 7 is an exploded and perspective view of a fastening device according to a first embodiment of the invention. figure 8 is a perspective view of a moving part of the fastening device of the figure 7 . There figure 9is a perspective and bottom view of a chassis of the fastening device of the figure 7 . There Figure 10 is a perspective and bottom view of the fastening device of the figure 7 , a frame of the mounting device being in a first position relative to a sliding board. The figure 11 is a perspective and bottom view of the fastening device of the figure 7 the mounting bracket's chassis being in a second position relative to the board. figure 12 is a perspective and bottom view of the fastening device of the figure 7 the mounting bracket's chassis being in a third position relative to the board. figure 13 is a perspective view of a fastening device according to a second embodiment of the invention. figure 14 is an exploded and perspective view of the fastening device of the figure 13 . There figure 15is a cross-sectional view of the fastening device of the figure 13 . There figure 16 is a cross-sectional view of a fastening device according to a third embodiment of the invention. figure 17 is a perspective view of a housing for a cable tension adjustment element of a fastening device according to an embodiment of the invention. figure 18 is a perspective view of the adjustment element intended to be placed in the housing of the figure 17 . There figure 19 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a control element according to the invention. Figure 20 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a locking element according to the invention. figure 21 is a perspective and exploded view of an alternative embodiment of a chassis and a control element according to the invention. figure 22is a cross-sectional view of part of a fastening device according to an embodiment of the invention, the fastening device comprising a fastening element attached to a cable, the fastening element being locked in position in a housing formed in a structured element intended to be attached to a sliding board. figure 23 is a cross-sectional view of part of the fastening device of the figure 22 the element of solidarity being outside of said accommodation. Detailed description

[0023] There figure 1This schematically illustrates a gliding device 1 comprising a gliding board 2 and a binding device 3 according to an embodiment of the invention. The binding device 3 connects a boot to the gliding board 2 so as to transmit impulses from the user's foot to the gliding board 2. According to the embodiment shown, the gliding board 2 is a cross-country ski. Cross-country skiing is a sport in which a user progresses across a snowy surface by means of impulses transmitted to the skis. For cross-country skiing, each user's boot is connected to a ski only by the front end of the boot, so as to allow the heel of the boot to lift relative to the ski.

[0024] The longitudinal axis X is defined as the axis along which the board extends. The longitudinal axis X corresponds to the direction in which a user of the board moves in a straight line. The longitudinal axis X is oriented from back to front. The transverse axis Y is an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X. The transverse axis Y is oriented from right to left from the perspective of a user of board 2. It is assumed that board 2 rests on a horizontal surface. The X and Y axes are then horizontal axes. The vertical axis Z is an axis perpendicular to the X and Y axes. The X, Y, and Z axes thus form an orthogonal coordinate system. The terms "lower" and "upper" refer to an arrangement along the vertical axis Z.

[0025] The fastening device 3 according to the invention could also be fitted to any sliding board to which a user must have their feet connected or attached, not only by the front of the boot but possibly also by the back of the boot. In particular, the sliding board 2 could be an alpine ski, a touring ski, a snowboard, or even a monoski.

[0026] The binding device 3 is a front binding device, meaning it cooperates with the front of a shoe. The binding device 3 includes a retention means 4 adapted to cooperate with a shoe to retain the shoe to the board 2. Preferably, the retention means 4 is configured to link the shoe to the board via a rotational connection about an axis of rotation Y1 parallel to the transverse axis Y.

[0027] One embodiment of the restraint means 4 is partially shown on the figures 1 and 2The retention means 4 includes a housing for receiving a connecting pin integrated into a front portion of the boot sole. Additionally, the retention means 4 may include a means (not shown) for retaining the connecting pin within the housing. As can be seen in the figures, the housing may be formed, for example, by two notches 5A, 5B. Each notch 5A, 5B may be formed in a longitudinal rib 6A, 6B of the binding device. When a user wishes to put on a ski, they position the connecting pin integrated into the boot sole in the two notches 5A and 5B, and then actuate the retaining means to secure their boot to the ski. Thus, the front tip of the boot can pivot relative to the ski around the connecting pin, which corresponds to the axis of rotation Y1. Alternatively, the retention means 4 could be designed differently.

[0028] The fastening device 3 also includes an adjustment device 7 for adjusting the position of the retention means 4 relative to the ski board 2. The adjustment device 7 is configured to adjust the longitudinal position of the boot on the ski board, along the longitudinal axis X. More precisely, the adjustment device 7 is configured to adjust the position of the rotation axis Y1 along the longitudinal axis X. The adjustment range for the position of the retention means 4 can be from a few millimeters to several centimeters, for example, five centimeters.

[0029] The mounting device 3 comprises a frame 8 mounted to slide freely relative to the slide board 2 parallel to the longitudinal axis X. More specifically, the mounting device 3 includes guide rails 9A, 9B fixed to the slide board. Furthermore, the frame 8 includes guide grooves 10A, 10B cooperating respectively with the guide rails 9A, 9B. The guide grooves 10A, 10B are arranged on an underside face of the frame 8. The frame 8 is thus connected to the slide board by a sliding joint parallel to the longitudinal axis X.

[0030] The chassis 8 supports the retention means 4. In particular, the longitudinal ribs 6A and 6B, including the notches 5A and 5B, are formed on one upper face of the chassis 8. The chassis 8 is a single-piece element, for example, manufactured by plastic injection molding. The chassis 8 generally has the shape of an elongated plate along the longitudinal axis X. The chassis 8 comprises a rear portion designed to extend under the front of a shoe, and a front portion designed to extend over the front of the shoe.

[0031] The frame 8 also supports an operating element 11 of the adjustment device 7. The operating element 11 is designed to be manipulated by a user to adjust the longitudinal position of the restraint 4. The operating element 11 is arranged on an upper face of the front part of the frame 8. The operating element 11 is thus positioned in front of the front toe of the shoe and is easily accessible. The operating element 11 is rotatable about a first axis Z1 relative to the frame 8, the first axis Z1 being parallel to the vertical axis Z.

[0032] The adjustment device 7 also includes a structured element 12 attached to the slide board 2. The structured element 12 includes a series of reliefs 13. As we will see in more detail later, the reliefs 13 are intended to cooperate with a locking element of the adjustment device to lock the position of the chassis 8 relative to the slide board 2.

[0033] Preferably, the reliefs 13 are arranged regularly along the longitudinal axis X. The structured element 12 is fixed (for example screwed or glued) on an upper face of the slide board 2 or possibly on a plate itself fixed to the upper face of the slide board.

[0034] The structured element 12 can, for example, be in the form of a notched plate. The structured element 12 can extend between the two guide rails 9A and 9B. Advantageously, the guide rails 9A, 9B and the structured element 12 form a single piece.

[0035] According to the embodiment presented, the structured element 12 is a rack. The rack comprises transversely extending teeth arranged at regular intervals. The teeth are separated from each other by recesses designed to receive a locking pin, as will be detailed later. Alternatively, the structured element 12 could be in a different form on which a force with a non-zero longitudinal component can be applied. The structured element could be in the form of a surface with regularly spaced holes, or in the form of a rack whose teeth are not parallel to the transverse axis Y but inclined with respect to the transverse axis Y or V-shaped. The structured element could also be a simple surface sufficiently rough or adhesive to allow the transmission of a longitudinal force.According to another embodiment, the structured element could be formed or sculpted directly into an upper face of the board.

[0036] There figure 3 The adjustment device 7 is illustrated in more detail by a perspective and exploded view. In addition to the chassis 8 and the operating element 11 previously mentioned, the adjustment device 7 includes a locking element 14, a return means 15 and a lower plate 16.

[0037] The locking element 14 is rotationally movable relative to the chassis 8 around a second axis Y2 between a locking position (illustrated on the figure 6 ) and an unlocking position (illustrated on the figure 5The second axis Y2 is parallel to the transverse axis Y. The second axis Y2 is fixed to the frame 8, meaning it is fixed in the frame 8's reference frame. Consequently, the locking element 14 is rotatably mounted on the frame 8, which supports the retaining means 4. In the locked position, the locking element 14 engages with the structured element 12 to lock the frame 8 relative to the slide. The longitudinal position of the retaining means 4 is thus locked. In the unlocked position, the locking element 14 is disengaged from the structured element. This allows the frame 8 to move relative to the slide and thus adjust the longitudinal position of the retaining means 4.

[0038] The locking element 14 is rotatable by means of a shaft 17, supported by the lower plate 16, and passing completely through the locking element 14. The lower plate 16 includes a bearing 18 supporting the shaft 17.

[0039] The lower plate 16 is rigidly fixed to an underside of the frame 8, notably by a fixing screw 19. The fixing screw 19 cooperates with a first screw hole 20 provided on the frame 8 and a second screw hole 21 provided on the lower plate 16. The shaft 17 is thus fixed to the frame 8. Alternatively, other arrangements could be proposed for assembling the locking element 14 to the frame 8 by means of a rotational connection about the second axis Y2.

[0040] The return means 15 comprises a first end bearing against the lower plate 16, and a second end bearing against the locking element 14. The return means 15 tends to move the locking element 14 towards its locked position. The locked position of the locking element 14 is therefore a position of least tension on the return means 15, and is thus a stable position. As illustrated in the figure 3 The return means can be a helical spring designed to be subjected to compression. The helical spring is advantageously held in place by a retaining pin 22 formed on the lower plate 16. As we will see later, the return means 15 could be constructed differently. It could, for example, be a torsion spring or an elastic leaf.

[0041] In order to guide the operating element 11 in rotation around the first axis Z1, the chassis 8 comprises a cylindrical portion 23 whose axis of revolution coincides with the first axis Z1. The cylindrical portion 23 includes a central opening 24, also cylindrical, whose axis of revolution also coincides with the first axis Z1. The central opening 24 is bordered by a collar 25, visible in particular on the figures 5 and 6 .

[0042] The operating element 11 advantageously consists of a lower part 11A and an upper part 11B rigidly fixed to the lower part 11A. In particular, the lower part 11A is fixed to the upper part 11B by a fixing screw 26. The two-part construction of the operating element 11 11A and 11B simplifies its assembly to the chassis 8.

[0043] As can be clearly seen in the cross-sectional views of figures 5 and 6The upper part 11B includes a cylindrical blind opening whose diameter is slightly larger than the diameter of the cylindrical portion 23. The upper part 11B covers the cylindrical portion 23 and closes the central opening 24. The lower part 11A is housed inside the central opening 24. The lower part 11A includes a circular rim whose diameter is slightly smaller than the diameter of the central opening 24. The operating element 11 is thus guided in rotation around the first axis Z1 by cooperation with the cylindrical portion 23. The collar 25 is sandwiched between the lower part 11A and the upper part 11B. The operating element 11 is thus retained on the frame 8 and therefore cannot be lost.

[0044] The locking element 14 includes at least one locking finger 27, or hook 27, designed to cooperate with the structured element 12. In particular, when the locking element 14 is in its locked position, the locking finger 27 is positioned between two adjacent ridges 13, specifically in a recess arranged between two adjacent teeth, so as to prevent any movement of the locking element 14 along the longitudinal axis X. Since the locking element 14 is connected to the frame 8 via the shaft 17 and the lower plate 16, the longitudinal locking of the locking element 14 results in the longitudinal locking of the frame 8, and therefore of the retaining means 4, as the latter is supported by the frame. Conversely, when the locking element 14 is in its unlocked position, the locking finger 27 is disengaged from the structured element 12.The chassis 8 can then slide freely along the guide rails 9A, 9B, which allows the user to adjust the longitudinal position of the restraint means 4.

[0045] The shapes of the locking finger 27 and the reliefs are defined so that the retaining means 4 exhibits no longitudinal play when the locking finger 7 is in the locked position, and so that the rotation of the locking element 14 between its locked and unlocked positions is easy. In particular, the recesses formed between the adjacent teeth may advantageously have a downward-constricted shape, so as to ensure the longitudinal positioning of the frame 8 relative to the slide board without longitudinal play when the locking finger 27 is in its locked position. The bottom of each recess may have a dimension along the longitudinal axis X that is substantially equal to the width of the locking finger 27 along that same axis.The recesses may also have a flared shape towards the top, so as to more easily guide the locking finger 27 to its locking position and / or to facilitate the release of the locking finger from the structured element 12. The cross-section of each recess may thus have a trapezoidal shape with the longer base oriented upwards and the shorter base oriented downwards. Furthermore, the locking element 14 includes a bearing surface 28 through which the locking element 14 is in contact with the operating element 11. More precisely, the bearing surface 28 is in contact with a lower face 29 of the operating element 11, which is illustrated in Figure 1. figure 4The lower face 29 has a cam 30. The cam 30 is configured to exert varying degrees of pressure on the bearing surface 28 when the operating element 11 pivots about the first axis Z1. The bearing surface 28 is positioned substantially above the return means 15. Thus, the cam 30 is able to exert pressure against the bearing surface 28. The pressure of the cam 30 against the bearing surface 28 tends to put the return means 15 under tension. The cam 30 thus allows the locking element 14 to be positioned in its unlocked position. In the locked position of the locking element 14, the cam 30 can be moved away from the bearing surface and may exert no pressure on the locking element 14.

[0046] According to the illustrated embodiment, the cam 30 can be in the form of a ramp extending over approximately a quarter turn of the operating element 11. A rotation of a quarter turn of the operating element is therefore necessary to move the locking element from its locking position to its unlocking position, or vice versa.

[0047] Advantageously, this ramp is framed by two stop means 31A, 31B configured to limit the rotation of the operating element 11 relative to the frame 8. When the operating element 11 is in a first position, the stop means 31A is in lateral contact with the locking element 14, and the locking element 14 is in the locked position. The bearing surface 28 may then not yet be in contact with the cam 30. When the operating element 11 is in a second position, the second position being rotated approximately a quarter turn relative to the first position, the stop means 31B is in lateral contact with the locking element 14, and the locking element is in the unlocked position. The bearing surface 28 may then be in contact with the thickest part of the cam 30.

[0048] The locking finger 27 and the bearing surface 28 of the locking element 14 are arranged on either side of the second axis Y2. The locking element 14 thus behaves like a rocker: when the bearing surface 28 descends following contact with the cam 30, the locking finger 27 rises and disengages from the structured element 12. Conversely, when the bearing surface 28 rises under the action of the return means 15, the locking finger 27 descends and engages with the ridges 13 of the structured element. In particular, the locking finger 27 is positioned in a recess formed between two adjacent teeth of the structured element 12. This results in a compact adjustment device.

[0049] According to one embodiment, the locking finger 27 and the bearing surface 28 could be positioned on the same side of the second axis Y2. Thus, the cam bearing on the bearing surface would cause the locking element to move into its locked position. Conversely, the absence of cam bearing would cause the locking element to move into its unlocked position under the action of the elastic return means.

[0050] The operating element 11 is therefore a wheel intended to be rotated around the first axis Z1 by a user in order to adjust the position of the restraint means 4. Advantageously, the operating element 11, and in particular its upper part 11B, has an external shape that facilitates its handling, even for a user wearing gloves. To this end, and as illustrated in the figures 1, 2 And 3The operating element 11 may include one or more radial protrusions 32. In addition, the operating element 11 may also include a marking, in particular formed by molding, indicating in which direction to turn the operating element 11 to lock or unlock the adjustment device 7. Furthermore, the frame advantageously includes at least one window 33 through which it is possible to observe a marking integral with the slide board, for example a number, indicating the longitudinal position of the retaining element 4. By observing the marking appearing through the window 33, the user can make a precise and reproducible adjustment of the longitudinal position of the retaining means 4.

[0051] To adjust the longitudinal position of the restraint 4, the user rotates the operating element 11 to its second position, which moves the locking element 14 to its unlocked position. The user then slides the frame 8 relative to the slide by pushing or pulling on it until the restraint 4 reaches the desired longitudinal position. In this way, the user can freely move the restraint 4 by one or more notches, either forward or backward on the slide. The user then rotates the operating element 11 back to its first position, which moves the locking element to its locked position. If the locking finger 27 is not perfectly positioned between two adjacent ridges 13, the user can make a slight manual adjustment.When the locking finger 27 is correctly positioned, the user may feel a slight jolt due to the pivoting of the locking element 14 under the effect of the return means 15. This adjustment operation can advantageously be carried out while the user's shoe is engaged with the retention means 4. Prior removal of the shoe is therefore not necessary.

[0052] We will now describe different variations of the first embodiment. We will focus primarily on describing the differences from the first embodiment without repeating the common features. To simplify the reading of the description and the figures, the same reference symbols will be used to designate identical objects or elements.

[0053] According to a first variant of the fastening device, illustrated in particular on the figures 7 to 12The operating element 11 is replaced by an operating element 34. In particular, the lower portion 11A of the operating element 11 is replaced by a different lower portion 34A. The lower face of the lower portion 34A comprises not a single cam but a plurality of cams 36A, 36B, 36C, 36D, 36E, 36F adapted to bear against the bearing surface 28 of the locking element 14. The cams 36A, 36B, 36C, 36D, 36E, 36F are distributed around the circular circumference of the lower face. The lower face thus presents a corrugated annular portion, that is to say, a portion comprising alternating troughs and ridges. The locking element 14 is thus in its unlocked position when its bearing surface 28 is in contact with one of the three cams 36A, 36B, 36C, 36D, 36E, 36F.The locking element 14 is in its locked position when the bearing surface 28 rests against the operating element in a recess between two adjacent cams. The locked position of the locking element 14 is also a stable position since it corresponds to less tension on the return means 15. The operating element 34 has no stop and can be freely pivoted about the first axis Z1, allowing for greater freedom of use. The operating element 34 can be pivoted into as many stable positions as it has cams. In the embodiment shown, the operating element 34 comprises six cams. However, this number can be freely chosen.

[0054] Advantageously, the fastening device includes a mechanical transmission means 37 between the operating element 34 and a support 38 attached to the sliding board 2. The transmission means 37 is configured such that a rotation of the operating element 34 in a first direction of rotation causes the restraining means to move in a first direction, and such that a rotation of the operating element 34 in a second direction of rotation, opposite to the first direction of rotation, causes the restraining means to move in a second direction, opposite to the first direction.

[0055] This embodiment is therefore advantageous because the operating element not only allows the locking element to be moved to the unlocked position but also allows the retaining means 4 to be moved. To adjust the longitudinal position of the retaining means 4, it is sufficient to rotate the operating element 34 around the first axis Z1. It is therefore not necessary to manually push or pull on the chassis.

[0056] In particular, as illustrated on the figure 7The transmission means 37 includes a cable 39. The cable 39 is intended to be at least partially wound around the operating element 34 when the operating element pivots about the first axis Z1. More specifically, the cable 39 comprises a first strand 39A directly connecting the operating element 34 to the support 38, and a second strand 39B connecting the operating element 34 to the support 38 via a pulley. This pulley is positioned on the opposite side of the operating means 34 from the support 38. In other words, the support 38 is located between the operating means 34 and the pulley. The pulley is not shown, but is intended to be housed in a recess 46 of the frame 40, visible on the figure 9 .

[0057] The pulley could be, for example, a wheel mounted to rotate freely around an axis parallel to the Z-axis. Alternatively, the pulley could be a simple guide allowing the second strand 9B to complete a half-turn. The pulley could be, for example, a U-shaped groove, possibly lined with a material that reduces friction between the second strand 9B and the walls of the groove. In all cases, the pulley is fixed to the frame 40. If the pulley is a wheel mounted to rotate freely around an axis parallel to the Z-axis, its axis of rotation can be fixed to the frame 40.

[0058] Strands 39A and 39B are wound around the operating element 34 such that: The rotation of the operating element 34 in a first direction of rotation causes the first strand 39A to lengthen and the second strand 39B to shorten, and the rotation of the operating element 34 in a second direction of rotation opposite to the first direction of rotation causes the first strand 39A to shorten and the second strand 39B to lengthen.

[0059] Therefore, rotating the operating element 34 in the first direction of rotation causes the operating element 34 to move closer to the support 38. Since the operating element 34 is connected to the retaining means 4 via the frame 40, the winding of the cable 39 causes the retaining means 4 to move towards the support 38. Conversely, rotating the operating element 34 in the second direction of rotation causes, by pulley effect, the operating element 34 to move away from the support 38, and therefore the retaining means 4 to move away from the support 38. The use of a transmission means thus advantageously allows for longitudinal movement of the retaining means in either a forward or backward direction.

[0060] According to the embodiment presented, the support 38 is positioned at the rear of the operating element 34. Rotation of the operating element 34 in the first direction of rotation therefore causes the restraint means 4 to move rearward, and rotation of the operating element 34 in the second direction of rotation causes the restraint means 4 to move forward. Alternatively, the support 38 could also be positioned at the front of the operating element 34, so as to reverse this kinematic action.

[0061] Advantageously, the operating element 34 includes a groove 41 inside which the cable 39 can be wound. This groove 41 has a circular shape and is arranged in the lower part 34A of the operating element 34. Thus, a volume is provided to accommodate the wound cable. The cable does not interfere with the chassis 40 and is not at risk of becoming entangled.

[0062] Advantageously, the diameter of the groove 41 is determined so that the rotation of the operating element 34 between two consecutive stable positions causes the longitudinal displacement of the frame 40 by a distance equal to the distance separating two consecutive ridges 13 of the structured element 12. This distance can be on the order of one millimeter or a few millimeters to allow for millimeter-precise adjustment of the position of the retaining means. Thus, the locking finger 27 can automatically return to its position between two adjacent ridges following the rotation of the operating element between two stable positions.

[0063] Thus, according to the illustrated embodiment, as the operating element 34 has six cams 36A, 36B, 36C, 36D, 36E, 36F, the 360° rotation of the operating element 34 allows the longitudinal displacement of the restraint means over a distance equal to the distance separating six consecutive reliefs of the structured element 12. In general, the longitudinal displacement of the restraint means is proportional to the angle of rotation of the operating element.

[0064] According to the embodiment presented, the cable 39 forms a closed loop, i.e., the two strands 39A and 39B constitute two portions of the same cable 39. These two portions are joined to each other at their ends. Alternatively, the fastening device could comprise two strands 39A, 39B independent of each other. Each strand would be connected to the operating element 34 and to the support 38 at both ends. According to another embodiment, the fastening device could comprise two independent supports, each strand cooperating with one support. A first support could be arranged at the front of the operating device and a second support could be arranged at the rear of the operating device. Such an arrangement would eliminate the need for a pulley. In yet another embodiment, the transmission means 37 could be a belt instead of a cable, or any type of link sufficiently flexible to be able to be wound around the operating element.

[0065] The support 38 can be attached to the structured element 12 or directly to the slide board, in particular by means of a fixing screw (not shown). Other means of attaching the support 38 to the structured element 12 or directly to the slide board can be considered, for example, a clip or an insert that can be recessed into the structured element 12. Advantageously, the position and / or orientation of the support 38 relative to the structured element 12 or to the slide board can be adjusted so as to regulate the length or tension of the strands 39A, 39B of the cable 39 extending between the support 38 and the operating element 34.

[0066] Advantageously, the chassis 40 includes a channel 42 within which the cable 39 is guided and protected. The channel 42 is formed on the underside of the chassis 40 between the two guide grooves 10A, 10B. Advantageously, the channel 42 is closed by a plate 47 integral with the chassis 40. The plate 47 thus holds the cable 39 securely in place within the channel 42. The plate 47 can, in particular, be screwed to the chassis 40 by means of fixing screws passing through holes provided in the plate 47 for this purpose.

[0067] The plate 47 also includes a longitudinal slot 48 through which extends a fixing axis for the support 38. The plate 47, which is integral with the frame 40, can thus slide freely along the longitudinal axis X relative to the sliding board, without striking the support 38. The plate also includes a circular opening 49 substantially complementary to the shape of the support 38. The opening 49 is positioned substantially in the middle of the longitudinal slot 48. The opening 49 is positioned opposite an opening 50 provided on the frame 40. The openings 49 and 50 allow access to the support 38 when the frame is in an intermediate position (position shown in the diagram). figure 11 ) between its most advanced position (position represented on the figure 12 ) and its most remote position (position represented on the Figure 10Openings 49 and 50 facilitate the mounting of the fixing device and allow for easier adjustment of the orientation of the support 30 relative to the sliding board. As can be seen on the Figures 10 to 12 The support 38 advantageously includes radial grooves 51 on its underside. These grooves 51 cooperate with a complementary shape arranged on the structured element 12 or on the sliding board so as to lock the support 38 in position. The grooves 51 allow the support 38 to be oriented in a multitude of ways and to be firmly fixed to the sliding board or the structured element.

[0068] Furthermore, the chassis 40 may have other adaptations compared to the chassis 8 described previously. In particular, the height of the cylindrical portion 23 may be increased to accommodate the lower part 34A, whose dimension along the vertical axis Z is slightly larger than the dimension of the lower part 11A along the same axis.

[0069] As a point of note, this first embodiment incorporates several specific features compared to the first embodiment described, including the integration of multiple cams instead of a single cam and the integration of a transmission means between the operating element and a support. According to other embodiments, the first embodiment could be adapted to incorporate only some of these specific features.

[0070] According to a second embodiment of the fastening device, illustrated in particular on the Figures 13, 14 and 15, the operating element 11 is replaced by an operating element 43. In addition to being mobile in rotation around the first axis Z1, the operating element 43 is also mobile in translation parallel to this axis Z1, i.e. up and down, along the axis Z1.

[0071] The collar 25 of the frame 8 is held in a housing 44 formed between a lower part 43A and an upper part 43B of the operating element 43. The housing 44 is dimensioned to allow vertical movement of the operating element relative to the frame 8.

[0072] The lower part 43A of the operating element 43 may include a flat lower surface without a cam. The operating element 43 is then pressed against the bearing surface 28 of the locking element 14 along the vertical axis Z. The upper part 43B of the operating element 43 translates vertically until it closes the housing 44, and drives the lower part of the operating element 43 downwards. This lower part, by bearing against the locking element 14, and in particular its bearing surface 28, tilts the locking element 14 into the unlocked position. Thus, according to this embodiment, the operating element 43 is translationally movable parallel to the first axis Z1 between a first position and a second position. The first position of the operating element 43 is an upward position and corresponds to the locked position of the locking element 14.The second position of the operating element 43 is a lowered position and corresponds to the unlocking position of the locking element 14. The operating element 43 naturally returns to its first position under the action of the return means 15. In this variant, the lowered position of the operating element 43 allows the retaining element 4 to move longitudinally relative to the structured element 12 as long as this lowered position is maintained by the user. A user can press on the operating element directly with their hand or, for example, with a stick.

[0073] In addition, this second embodiment can also be equipped with a transmission means such as the transmission means 37 described previously. To move the locking element 14 into its unlocked position, a user presses vertically on the operating element. Then, to adjust the longitudinal position of the retaining means, the user rotates the operating element 43 around its first axis Z1, winding a cable around it. When the retaining means 4 has reached the desired position, the user simply releases the operating element 43, which naturally retracts under the action of the return means 15, causing the locking element 14 to pivot into the locked position.

[0074] There figure 16This illustrates a third embodiment of the fastening device with the locking element in the locked position. According to this embodiment, the return means 45 is in the form of an elastic blade, rather than a helical spring. The elastic blade can, for example, be a metal blade. Advantageously, the elastic blade is also a component of the retaining means 4. In this case, the elastic blade is also useful for holding the connecting pin integrated into the shoe sole in the notches 5A and 5B. The blade then comprises a first end cooperating with the connecting pin and a second end cooperating with the locking element 14. This saves one component in the manufacture of the fastening device.

[0075] THE Figures 17 and 18These further illustrate an improvement of the invention compatible with all versions of the fastening device comprising a mechanical transmission means in the form of a cable 39, arranged between the operating element and the support attached to the board. According to this improvement, the fastening device further comprises a means 52 for adjusting the tension of the cable 39. The adjustment means 52 comprises, on the one hand, an adjustment element 53 including a winding surface 54 for the cable, and on the other hand, a housing 55 for said adjustment element 53. The winding surface 54 can, in particular, extend over approximately 180°.

[0076] The position of the winding surface 54 allows a useful length of the cable 39 to be defined. The housing 55 is formed in the chassis 8. The adjustment element 53 is movable inside the housing 55 parallel to the longitudinal axis X between a plurality of positions spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal axis X.

[0077] Advantageously, the adjusting element 53 comprises a first set of teeth 56, and the housing comprises a second set of teeth 57 cooperating with the first set of teeth 56 so as to define a plurality of stable longitudinal positions. The adjusting element 53 may be U-shaped. The winding surface 54 is formed at the base of the U, and the first set of teeth 56 is formed on two substantially parallel arms 58, 59 of the adjusting element. These two arms 58, 59 are preferably sufficiently elastic to be able to move closer together and thus disengage the first set of teeth 56 from the second set of teeth 57. The coming together of the two arms 58, 59 can be achieved by manually pinching the adjusting element 53. When the first set of teeth 56 is disengaged from the second set of teeth 57, the adjusting element 53 can slide inside the housing 55, which allows the length of the cable 39 to be adjusted.

[0078] Advantageously, the adjustment element 53 can include a pawn (taking place in the opening 60 visible on the figure 18 ). The pin cooperates with a groove 61 formed in the chassis 8 to guide the translational movement of the adjustment element 53 relative to the chassis.

[0079] The adjustment means 52 can be positioned in place of the housing 46 described previously. The adjustment means 52 compensates for any extension (or retraction) of the cable 39 that may occur during use of the fastening device.

[0080] There figure 19This illustrates another embodiment of the operating element 34 described previously. According to this embodiment, the operating element 34 is replaced by an operating element 62 comprising two separate grooves 63, 64. The two grooves 63, 64 are circular grooves arranged one above the other around the first axis Z1. Each groove 63, 64 is designed to receive one end of the cable 39. This prevents the ends of the cable 39 from interfering with each other or becoming entangled when the operating element 62 is being handled.

[0081] This results in a smoother winding or unwinding of the cable 39 around the operating element 62.

[0082] There Figure 20This illustrates an alternative embodiment of the locking element 14 described previously. According to this embodiment, the locking element 14 is replaced by a locking element 65. The locking element 65 is also rotationally movable relative to the frame 8 about a second axis Y2 between a locked position and an unlocked position. The locking element 65 also includes a bearing surface 66 through which it is in contact with an operating element. The bearing surface 66 includes two lateral tabs 67, 68 extending parallel to each other. Each lateral tab 67, 68 includes an inclined ramp, particularly with respect to a plane defined by the X and Y axes. The locking element 65 can advantageously cooperate with the operating element 62 described previously.In particular, the two lateral tabs 67, 68 can be designed to contact a conical portion 69 formed in the lower part of the operating element 62. When the locking element 65 is pushed downwards by a user, the conical portion 69 contacts the bearing surface 66, causing the locking element 65 to rotate around the second axis Y2 towards its unlocked position. This conical portion 69 allows the locking element 65 to remain in the unlocked position continuously during the rotation of the operating element 62, as long as this operating element is pushed downwards. The presence of the two lateral tabs 67, 68 framing the conical portion 70 allows for better distribution of the forces transmitted by the operating element to the locking element 65. The locking element 65 is therefore more robust.

[0083] There figure 21This further illustrates an alternative embodiment of the frame 8 and the various operating elements described previously. According to this embodiment, the flange 25 of the cylindrical portion 23 of the frame 8 is replaced by a flange 71 having a set of first ridges 72, notably in the form of teeth extending parallel to the first axis Z1. The first ridges 72 are formed all around the flange 71 and project downwards. This flange 71 cooperates with a lower portion 73A of an operating element 73 extending into the central opening of the flange 71. The operating element 73 includes second ridges 74 cooperating with the first ridges 72 to block the rotation of the operating element around the first axis Z1 when the operating element 73 is in the raised position, the locking element 65 being then in the locked position.The second set of lugs 74, also tooth-like, is distributed around the operating element 73 and projects upwards. In this case, the operating element 73 comprises four second set of lugs 74 spaced at 90° intervals. Alternatively, this number could be different. When the operating element is in the lowered position, the second set of lugs 74 is clear of the first set of lugs 72, allowing the operating element 73 to rotate freely around the first axis Z1. The rotational lock of the operating element in the raised position ensures the secure operation of the fastening device. More specifically, it prevents any unintentional longitudinal translational movement of the frame 8 relative to the sliding board 2.

[0084] As it appears on the figure 21The operating element 73 includes two grooves for winding the two ends of the cable. The operating element 73 also includes a conical portion and cooperates with the locking element 65 described previously. Alternatively, the operating element 73 could include only one groove, or even no groove at all if it were used in a fastening device without a transmission means. The operating element 73 could also cooperate with the locking element 14 described previously or even with any other type of locking element.

[0085] THE Figures 22 and 23These further illustrate an improvement of the invention compatible with all versions of the fastening device comprising a mechanical transmission means in the form of a cable 39, arranged between the operating element and the support attached to the board. According to this improvement, the cable 39 is equipped with at least one fastening element 75 with the structured element 12. Preferably, each of the two strands 39A, 39B is equipped with a fastening element 75 with the structured element 12. The fastening element 75 allows the cable 39 to be fixed to the structured element 12, so that winding the cable 39 around the operating element causes a longitudinal displacement of the frame 8. The fastening element 75 can be used in place of the support 38 described previously.

[0086] According to one embodiment, the fastening element 75 is a sleeve fixed to the cable 39, in particular crimped around the cable 39. The sleeve may be a metal tube through which the cable 39 passes. The structured element 12 then has a housing 76 whose shape is at least partially complementary to the fastening element 75. The fastening device also includes a locking element 77 movable relative to the frame 8 between a locking position (illustrated in the figure 22 ) and an unlocking position (illustrated on the figure 23). When the locking element 77 is in the locked position, it holds the securing element 75 in place in the housing 76. Consequently, the cable 39 is attached to the structured element 12 at the level of the securing element 75. When the locking element 77 is in the unlocked position, the securing element 75 is outside the housing 76 and the cable 39 is not attached to the structured element 12. This configuration allows for the assembly or maintenance of the fastening device.

[0087] The locking element 77 is slidably mounted along the longitudinal axis X on the frame 8 between its locked and unlocked positions. Advantageously, the locking element 77 includes a ramp 78 that progressively applies pressure to the fastening element 75 during the longitudinal movement of the locking element 77. The locking element 77 can be positioned at the rear of the restraint 4 and thus extend substantially under a shoe attached to the restraint 4.

[0088] Finally, thanks to the invention, a fastening device is available for adjusting the longitudinal position of the restraint 4. The fastening device comprises a movable operating element that can rotate and optionally translate between at least one first position and a second position. Adjusting the longitudinal position of the restraint can be achieved by rotating an operating element connected to the restraint by a transmission means. The fastening device is robust, simple to manufacture, and simple to use.

Claims

1. Front binding device (3) for holding a boot on a gliding board (2), characterized in that it comprises: - a retaining means (4) able to collaborate with a front part of a boot, and - an adjusting device (7) for adjusting a position of the retaining means relative to a gliding board, the adjusting device comprising: - a structured element (12) comprising a series of reliefs (13), the structured element being intended to be mounted securely on the gliding board, - a locking element (14, 65) mobile between a locked position in which it is engaged with the structured element in order to lock the position of the retaining means, and an unlocked position in which it is disengaged from the structured element in order to adjust the position of the retaining means, and - an operating element (11, 34, 43, 62, 73) supported by the retaining means and intended to be actuated by a user, the operating element being mobile in rotation about a first axis (Z1) parallel to a vertical axis, the operating element being mobile between at least a first position and a second position, the operating element bearing against a bearing surface (28, 66) of the locking element so that the locking element moves from its locked position to its unlocked position when the operating element is actuated from its first position to its second position, characterized in that it further comprises: - a mechanical transmission means (37) between the operating element (34, 62, 73) and a support (38) intended to be mounted securely on the gliding board or between the operating element and a securing element (75) able to be held securely on the structured element (12), the transmission means being configured so that: - turning the operating element in a first direction of rotation causes the retaining means (4) to move in a first direction, and / or - turning the operating element in a second direction, opposite to the first direction of rotation, causes the retaining means (4) to move in a second direction, opposite to the first direction.

2. Binding device (3) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that it comprises a chassis (8, 40) mobile in translation relative to the structured element (12), the retaining means (4) and the operating element (11, 34, 43, 62, 73) being supported by the chassis.

3. Binding device (3) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the locking element (14, 65) is mobile in rotation about a second axis (Y2) parallel to a transverse axis, the second axis being secured to and immovable in relation to said chassis (8, 40).

4. Binding device (3) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the locking element (14, 65) comprises a locking finger (27) able to collaborate with the structured element, the locking finger and the bearing surface (28) of the locking element being arranged one on each side of the second axis (Y2).

5. Binding device (3) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises a return means (15, 45) tending to move the locking element (14) towards its locked position.

6. Binding device (3) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the retaining means (4) comprises an elastic blade, said return means (45) being formed by part of the elastic blade.

7. Binding device (3) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the operating element (11, 34) comprises at least one cam (30, 36A, 36B, 36C, 36D, 36E, 36F), rotation of the operating element about the first axis (Z1) causing the cam to bear against the bearing surface (28) of the locking element (14) to tend to move the locking element towards its unlocked position.

8. Binding device (3) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the operating element (34) comprises a plurality of cams (36A, 36B, 36C, 36D, 36E, 36F) intended to bear against the bearing surface (28) of the locking element (14), the locking element being in its unlocked position when the bearing surface is bearing against one from among the plurality of cams, the locking element being in its locked position when the bearing surface is bearing against the operating element between two adjacent cams.

9. Binding device (3) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the transmission means (37) comprises a cable (39), the cable being intended to be at least partially wound around the operating element (34) when the operating element pivots about the first axis (Z1), the operating element (34, 62, 73) notably comprising at least one groove (41), preferably two grooves (63, 64) in which the cable (39) is intended to be wound.

10. Binding device (3) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises a pulley, the support (38) being positioned between the operating element (34) and the pulley, the transmission means (37) comprising a first strand (39A) and a second strand (39B), the first strand (39A) directly connecting the support to the operating element, the second strand (39B) connecting the support to the operating element via the pulley.

11. Binding device (3) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the binding device comprises a tension adjusting means (52) for adjusting the tension in the cable (39).

12. Binding device (3) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the operating element (43) is also mobile in translation parallel to the first axis (Z1) between its first position and its second position.

13. Binding device (3) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the operating element is locked against rotation when it is in its first position.

14. Gliding equipment (1), characterized in that it comprises a gliding board (2), notably a cross-country ski, and a binding device (3) according to one of the preceding claims.