Locking device for a ski boot

Abstract

Locking device for a ski boot. Ski boot (1) comprising a lower shell (2), a cuff (3) pivotally articulated relative to the lower shell, and a locking device (10) for locking a pivot point between the lower shell (2) and the cuff (3), the locking device comprising: - a blade (14) intended to cooperate with a locking element to lock the pivot point from rotation, - a lever (11) adapted to be manipulated by a user, the lever being movable between a locking position and an unlocking position, the blade comprising a bearing surface (55) intended to interact with the lever to move the lever to its locking position. Figure for abbreviation: Figure 10

Description

Title of the invention: Locking device for a ski boot. Technical field of the invention

[0001] The invention relates to a ski boot comprising a locking device for blocking a rotational joint between a lower shell and a cuff of the ski boot. Prior art

[0002] For skiing, boots are known that include a lower shell and a cuff that pivots around the lower shell. The lower shell wraps around the foot below the ankle, while the cuff wraps around the lower leg above the ankle. The articulation between the lower shell and the cuff allows for easy insertion of the foot into the boot, as well as a natural gait since the ankle joint is not restricted. When the boot is used for downhill alpine skiing, the articulation between the lower shell and the cuff must be locked in order to effectively control the skis.

[0003] To lock or unlock the joint between the lower shell and the cuff, locking devices, also known as "ski-walk" devices, are known. These devices include a hand-operated lever that allows the user to choose between two boot configurations. The first configuration, called "ski," locks the joint between the cuff and the lower shell. The second configuration, called "walk," unlocks the joint between the cuff and the lower shell.

[0004] Locking devices known in the prior art include all or some of the following disadvantages: - they are complex to manufacture; - they are heavy and / or bulky; - they are difficult to handle; - They do not allow for a sufficient range of motion to achieve satisfactory walking comfort when in walking configuration; - They do not allow for the collar to be firmly locked relative to the bottom of the shell when in ski configuration.

[0005] Furthermore, the conditions under which ski boots are used are particularly harsh: they are exposed to very low temperatures and very high humidity. In addition, they are likely to receive numerous impacts, especially if the user falls. Under these conditions, the locking devices The integrated locking mechanisms in these boots are prone to damage. Once damaged, a locking device can become even more difficult to operate and / or may no longer properly lock the cuff against the bottom of the shell in ski mode, or may even become completely unusable.

[0006] Finally, the locking devices known in the prior art are cumbersome to operate since the user has to bend down to activate the lever. Furthermore, users do not always know in which direction to push or pull the lever depending on their skiing style. It therefore frequently happens that a user uses their boots in an unsuitable configuration. When a user uses the boots in a walking configuration for skiing, they obtain less precise ski control. Skiing without a locking mechanism between the cuff and the lower shell poses a risk of injury such as a knee sprain or a ruptured knee ligament. Presentation of the invention

[0007] The object of the invention is to provide a locking device that remedies the above disadvantages and improves upon known prior art locking devices.

[0008] In particular, the invention aims to provide locking devices that are simple to manufacture, reliable, robust, easy to handle, and that allow the collar to be effectively locked against the bottom of the shell when they are in ski configuration. Summary of the invention

[0009] The invention relates to a ski boot comprising a lower shell, a cuff that is articulated rotationally relative to the lower shell, and a locking device for blocking a rotational joint between the lower shell and the cuff, the locking device comprising: - a movable locking element between a locked position and an unlocked position, - a blade designed to cooperate with the locking element to prevent the joint from rotating when the locking element is in the locked position, - a lever capable of being manipulated by a user, the lever being movable between a locked position and an unlocked position, - a transmission means linking the lever to the locking element, the transmission means being configured such that the movement of the lever towards its locking position tends to move the locking element towards its locking position and the movement of the lever towards its unlocking position tends to move the locking element towards its unlocking position, the blade comprising a bearing surface intended to interact with the lever to move the lever to its locking position.

[0010] The bearing surface can be intended to come into direct contact with a receiving surface of the lever to move the lever to its locking position.

[0011] The blade can be mounted to rotate about a first axis of rotation, the blade being intended to pivot about said first axis of rotation and to slide relative to the lever when the collar pivots relative to the bottom of the hull.

[0012] The blade may include a first end and a second end opposite to the first end, the blade being mounted movable in rotation about a first axis of rotation positioned at the level of its first end, said bearing surface being positioned at the level of its second end.

[0013] Said blade support surface can be formed by an edge of the blade, in particular an upper edge of the blade.

[0014] The lever can be rotationally mobile about a second axis of rotation between its locked position and its unlocked position. The lever can include a receiving surface intended to come into direct contact with the bearing surface of the blade, the receiving surface being offset with respect to the second axis of rotation.

[0015] The transmission means may include a rocker mounted movable in rotation about a third axis of rotation, the rocker comprising a first bearing surface and a second bearing surface opposite to the first bearing surface with respect to the third axis of rotation, the lever being configured to exert a support against the first bearing surface to rotate the rocker about the third axis of rotation, the second bearing surface being configured to exert a support against the locking element to move the locking element between its locking position and its unlocking position.

[0016] The transmission means may further include a return means, in particular a torsion spring, the return means comprising a first end and a second end opposite to the first end, the first end being in contact with the lever, the second end being in contact with the first bearing surface of the rocker, the return means being configured so as to be transiently energized when the lever is moved between its locking position and its unlocking position.

[0017] The locking element can be mobile in translation parallel to a fourth axis between its locking position and its unlocking position, and the blade can move in a plane substantially perpendicular to the fourth axis when the collar pivots relative to the bottom of the hull.

[0018] The locking element may include a lug, and the blade may include a first opening comprising a shape complementary to a shape of the lug, the lug cooperating with the first opening when the locking element is in the locking position.

[0019] The locking device may include a housing intended to be attached to the collar or the bottom of the hull, the housing including a guide means for guiding the locking element in translation between its locking position and its unlocking position.

[0020] The housing may further include at least one guide intended to guide the blade in translation relative to the housing when the collar pivots relative to the bottom of the shell. The locking element may include a first guide surface and the blade may include a second guide surface, the first guide surface cooperating with the second guide surface to guide the movement of the blade relative to the locking element when the locking element is in the unlocked position and the collar pivots relative to the bottom of the hull.

[0021] The blade may include a groove, and said second guide surface may be formed by at least one edge of the groove.

[0022] The locking element may include a first portion, in particular cylindrical in shape, adapted to cooperate with said first opening to block the rotational joint between the collar and the bottom of the hull when the locking element is in the locking position, and a second portion, in particular prismatic in shape, the second portion having at least one flat face forming a first guide surface cooperating with a second guide surface of the blade to guide the movement of the blade relative to the locking element when the locking element is in the unlocking position and the collar pivots relative to the bottom of the hull.

[0023] The invention also relates to a method for automatically locking a rotating joint between the cuff and the lower shell of a ski boot as defined above, the locking method comprising pivoting the cuff relative to the lower shell so that the bearing surface of the blade interacts with the lever and moves the lever to its locking position. Figures

[0024] These objects, features and advantages of the present invention will be described in detail in the following description of a particular embodiment, given by way of non-limiting example, with reference to the accompanying figures, among which:

[0025] Fig. 1 is a side view of a ski boot equipped with a locking device according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0026] Figure 2 is a rear perspective view of a hull bottom and a collar of the Ski boot equipped with a locking device. Fig. 3 is a perspective view of a ski boot locking device, with the locking device in ski configuration.

[0027] Fig. 4 is a perspective view of a locking device mechanism, with one housing of the locking device masked, the locking device being in ski configuration.

[0028] Fig. 5 is a perspective view of a locking element of the locking device.

[0029] Fig. 6 is a perspective view of a front face of the locking device, the locking device being in ski configuration.

[0030] Fig. 7 is a perspective view of a housing of the locking device.

[0031] Fig. 8 is another perspective view of the locking device mechanism, with one housing of the locking device masked, the locking device being in ski configuration.

[0032] Fig. 9 is a perspective view of the locking device mechanism, with one housing of the locking device masked and the locking device in the operating configuration.

[0033] Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the locking device mechanism, with the locking device in the operating configuration.

[0034] Fig. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the locking device mechanism, the locking device being in an armed configuration. Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the locking device mechanism, with the locking device in ski configuration. Detailed description

[0035] Figure 1 schematically illustrates a ski boot 1 according to an embodiment of the invention. The ski boot is designed to enclose the foot and lower leg of a user and to be attached, in a removable manner, to a sliding board, in particular a ski, for the practice of a snow sport. In particular, the ski boot 1 can be adapted for alpine skiing and / or ski touring.

[0036] In this document, the X-axis denotes the longitudinal axis of the ski boot. The X-axis is oriented from the heel area of ​​a user of the ski boot 1 towards the toe area of ​​the user, that is, in the direction in which a ski attached to the ski boot extends forward. The Y-axis denotes the transverse axis of the ski boot. The Y-axis is oriented from left to right, left and right being defined according to the user's viewpoint looking straight ahead. The Y-axis is thus substantially parallel to the axis of articulation of the user's ankle. The Z-axis denotes the axis perpendicular to the X-axis and the Y-axis. The boot is considered to The ski rests on a horizontal surface via its base. The Z-axis is then a vertical axis, oriented from bottom to top. The X, Y, and Z axes form an orthogonal coordinate system.

[0037] The ski boot 1 comprises a lower shell 2 for enveloping the user's foot, a cuff 3 for enveloping the user's lower leg, and a rotational articulation means 4 between the lower shell 2 and the cuff 3. The rotational articulation means 4 is configured to allow rotation of the cuff 3 relative to the lower shell 2 about an axis of rotation Y0 parallel to the Y-axis. The axis of rotation Y0 is substantially aligned with an axis of rotation of the user's ankle. The axis of rotation Y0 passes, in particular, through the user's two medial and lateral malleoli.

[0038] The ski boot 1 includes a set of tightening means 5A, 5B for tightening the ski boot around the user's foot and lower leg. Each tightening means 5A, 5B includes an operating device 6 fixed to a first flap of the lower shell or, respectively, of the cuff, and a fastening means 7 fixed to a second flap of the lower shell or, respectively, of the cuff. Each operating device 6 includes a tightening buckle 8 cooperating with the fastening means 7 to bring the first flap closer to the second flap and thus tighten the lower shell around the foot, or, respectively, to tighten the cuff around the lower leg. The fastening means 7 may, for example, include a ratchet. According to the embodiment shown, the ski boot 1 includes two tightening means 5A arranged on the lower shell and two tightening means 5B arranged on the cuff. Alternatively, the number of tightening means could be different.

[0039] When the 5B fastening means on the cuff are loosened, a rear and / or front portion of the cuff can extend away from the lower leg. Loosening the fastening means on the cuff thus allows some mobility of the user's ankle joint without stressing the rotational joint between the lower shell and the cuff. For comfortable walking and / or to allow the foot to be inserted into or removed from the boot, it is nevertheless preferable to have not only the 5B fastening means loosened, but also the rotational joint between the lower shell and the cuff unlocked.

[0040] The bottom of the shell 2 and the collar 3 can be at least partially made of injected plastic material.

[0041] The lower shell 2 includes a wrap-around portion designed to surround the user's foot. The lower shell 2 also includes a front footplate 9A and a rear footplate 9B designed to cooperate with a fastening device for attaching the ski boot 1 to a ski board. The lower shell 2 may further include various elements attached to or attached to the wrap-around portion. In particular, the lower shell 2 It may optionally include a rear bulkhead 58, also known as a "rear spoiler". The rear bulkhead 58 may be fitted into a recess formed at the rear of the lower hull wraparound section. The rear bulkhead 58 may optionally be more flexible than the wraparound section and / or be hinged relative to the wraparound section.

[0042] The ski boot 1 further includes a locking device 10 configured to lock the rotational joint between the lower shell 2 and the cuff 3. The locking device 10 allows the boot to be used either in a "walk" configuration, in which the rotational joint between the lower shell 2 and the cuff 3 is free, or in a "ski" configuration, in which the rotational joint between the lower shell 2 and the cuff 3 is locked. In the walk configuration, the ski boot follows the natural articulation of the foot and leg, which facilitates walking. The walk configuration also facilitates inserting or removing the foot from the boot. In the ski configuration, locking the joint allows optimal transmission of forces from the foot and lower leg to the ski boot, enabling precise guidance of the ski attached to the boot.

[0043] The locking device 10 is not simply a device for adjusting the inclination of the cuff 3 relative to the lower shell 2 in ski configuration. Unlike a cuff inclination adjustment device, the locking device 10 is designed to be operated frequently while skiing, for example, several times during the same day. The locking device is therefore robust enough to withstand numerous locking and unlocking cycles, including in very low temperatures and / or when the boot is covered in snow or ice. The locking device is also ergonomically designed so that it can be operated by a user without removing their boots, gloves, or any special tools.Conversely, a device for adjusting the cuff's angle relative to the bottom of the shell is intended for very occasional use, for example, only once during the initial fitting of the boot. Such an adjustment device generally includes a tightening screw. To adjust the cuff's angle relative to the bottom of the shell, the tightening screw is loosened with a screwdriver. This operation is intended to be carried out in a workshop. The boot is not intended to be used with the tightening screw loosened.

[0044] As a note, the locking device 10 according to the invention can also be adapted to adjust the inclination of the collar relative to the bottom of the shell, in addition to its function of locking and unlocking the rotational joint between the collar and the bottom of the shell. In this case, the locking device comprises not a single ski configuration but at least two ski configurations in in which the collar is locked relative to the bottom of the hull with two different inclinations.

[0045] The locking device 10 is arranged at the rear of the ski boot. It is schematically represented by a rectangle in dashed lines in [Fig. 1]. The locking device includes a lever 11 that protrudes partially towards the rear of the boot. The lever 11 is intended to be operated by the boot user, either directly with their hand or optionally with the tip of a ski pole. The lever 11 is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position. The locked position corresponds to the ski configuration, i.e., the configuration in which the rotating joint is locked. The unlocked position corresponds to the walk configuration, i.e., the configuration in which the rotating joint is free. The unlocked position of the lever 11 can correspond to a raised position, represented by a solid line in [Fig. 1].The locking position of lever 11 can correspond to a lowered position, represented by dashed lines in [Fig. 1]. Alternatively, these two positions could be reversed, i.e., the locking position of the lever could correspond to a raised position, and the unlocking position could correspond to a lowered position.

[0046] Figure 2 illustrates the lower shell 2 and the cuff 3 of the ski boot 1 without the tightening means 5A, 5B. The locking device 10 is housed at least partially in a protrusion formed at the rear of the cuff 3. The locking device 10 is, in particular, at least partially covered by an outer wall 12 of the cuff. This outer wall 12 includes an opening 50 through which the lever 11 passes, so as to remain easily accessible. The locking device 10 is thus protected from impacts and snow or ice projections by the outer wall 12.

[0047] With reference to [Fig. 3], the locking device 10 comprises a mechanism 13 integral with the collar 3 and a conjugate element, in the form of a blade 14, integral with the lower shell 2. The blade 14 is fixed to the lower shell 2 at its lower end and extends upwards. In the ski configuration, the blade 14 is locked in position against the collar 3 by the mechanism 13, which has the effect of preventing the rotational joint between the collar and the lower shell.

[0048] The blade 14 may be a rectangular plate whose upper end is inserted into the mechanism 13. The blade 14 may have an upper edge parallel to the transverse axis Y. The blade 14 extends generally upwards, parallel to an axis ZI. The axis ZI may be substantially parallel to the vertical axis Z for a given orientation of the collar 3 relative to the bottom of the shell 2. When the locking device is in the ski configuration, the axis ZI may form a non-zero angle with the vertical axis Z. This angle is preferably less than or equal to 30°.

[0049] The blade 14 has a curved shape to ensure proper integration along the rear wall of the ski boot 1, as well as improved mechanical strength, particularly flexural strength. Alternatively, the blade 14 could also have a straight shape. In particular, the blade 14 comprises an upper portion 15 extending in a first plane and a lower portion 16 extending in a second plane parallel to the first plane and offset from it. The first and second planes can extend parallel to the vertical axis Z and the transverse axis Y for a given inclination of the cuff relative to the bottom of the shell. The first plane 15 is positioned further forward on the ski boot than the second plane 16. The first and second planes can be connected by an angled portion.The angled shape of the 14 blade allows it to conform to the shape of the ski boot heel, thus enabling discreet and compact blade integration. This shape also allows for a lower positioning of the lower end of the blade, resulting in a greater range of rotation of the cuff relative to the bottom of the shell.

[0050] The blade 14 is fixed to the bottom of the shell 2 by means of a rotational joint about a first axis of rotation Y1 parallel to the transverse axis Y. For this purpose, the bottom of the shell 2 comprises two protrusions 17, formed substantially in the area of ​​the heel, and connected by an axis 18 extending along the axis of rotation Y1. As can be seen in [Fig. 3], the lower end of the blade 14 can simply be wound around said axis 18 to form said rotational joint. The rotational joint of the blade 14 allows the blade to follow the movement of the collar 3 when the latter pivots around the bottom of the shell 2 about the axis of rotation Y0. When the locking device 10 is in the operating configuration and the collar 3 pivots relative to the bottom of the hull 2, the blade 14 pivots around the axis of rotation Y1 in the reference frame of the bottom of the hull 2, and translates along the axis ZI in the reference frame of the collar 3.

[0051] Advantageously, the blade 14 is a single-piece metal element. The blade 14 can be obtained by cutting and bending a metal plate.

[0052] The mechanism 13 comprises a housing 19 fixed to the collar 3. The housing 19 has an opening into which the blade 14 is engaged. The blade 14 is guided in translation inside the housing 19 parallel to the axis along which the blade extends, i.e., parallel to the axis ZI. When the locking device 10 is in the walking configuration, the blade 14 is free to slide inside the housing 19 parallel to the axis ZI. When the locking device 10 is in the skiing configuration, the blade 14 is locked inside the housing 19.

[0053] Figure 4 illustrates the mechanism 13 of the locking device 10, without the housing 19, the locking device being in its ski configuration. It can be seen that the mechanism 13 comprises a locking element 20 movable parallel to a axis XI between a locked position and an unlocked position. Axis XI is perpendicular to axis Zl. In particular, axis XI is perpendicular to the plane in which the upper part of the blade 14 extends, that is to say perpendicular to the first plane 15.

[0054] The locking position of the locking element 20 corresponds to the ski configuration of the locking device 10. In the ski configuration, the locking element 20 cooperates with the blade 14 so as to prevent its sliding within the housing 19.

[0055] The unlocking position of the locking element 20 corresponds to the operating configuration of the locking device 10. In the operating configuration, the locking element 20 is then positioned relative to the blade 14 so as to allow the blade 14 to slide inside the housing 19 and thus free the rotational joint between the collar and the bottom of the shell.

[0056] The blade 14 includes a stop surface designed to cooperate with the locking element 20 to prevent the joint from rotating when the locking element is in the locked position. According to the embodiment shown, the locking element 20 includes a lug, and the blade 14 includes an opening 21 having a shape complementary to a shape of the lug. The opening 21 is a hole passing through the thickness of the blade 14. When the locking device is in the ski configuration and the user exerts a force tending to rotate the collar forward, the locking element 20 bears against the upper edge 21A of the opening 21. When the locking device is in the ski configuration and the user exerts a force tending to rotate the collar backward, the locking element 20 bears against the lower edge 21B of the opening 21.The upper edge 21A and the lower edge 21B of the opening 21 thus form the said stop surface cooperating with the locking element 20 to prevent the joint from rotating when the locking element is in the locked position. As will be shown later, other shapes can be considered for the locking element 20 and the opening 21.

[0057] Advantageously, the locking element 20 also includes a first guide surface 22, and the blade 14 includes a second guide surface 23. The first guide surface 22 cooperates with the second guide surface 23 to guide the movement of the blade 14 relative to the locking element 20 when the locking element is in the unlocked position and the collar pivots relative to the bottom of the shell. This ensures proper positioning of the locking element 20 relative to the blade 14 under all circumstances. The locking element 20 thus combines a function of locking the blade 14 and a function of guiding the blade 14. Consequently, the locking device is easier to operate and more robust.

[0058] In particular, thanks to the cooperation of the guiding surfaces 22 and 23, the blade 14 is very well positioned relative to the locking element 20 at the moment to move the locking device into the locked position. This prevents the locking element 20 from colliding with an edge of the opening 21, which would make handling particularly difficult. Thus, the guide means allows for an opening 21 in the blade whose dimensions are precisely matched to the dimensions of the locking element 20. This ensures no play, or minimal play, between the collar and the bottom of the shell when the locking device is in the ski configuration.

[0059] Thanks to the cooperation of the guide surfaces 22 and 23, the blade 14 is also very well guided within the housing 19 when the locking device is in its operating configuration and the collar pivots around the bottom of the housing. In particular, the cooperation of the guide surfaces 22 and 23 ensures the lateral guidance of the blade within the housing. This prevents the blade 14 from coming into contact with a wall of the housing 19, and more generally with any element of the mechanism 13 that is not intended to come into contact with the blade 14. The locking device is thus more robust and more durable.

[0060] Conversely, when a locking device does not include any guiding means between the locking element 20 and the blade 14, the locking element is then positioned much less precisely relative to the blade. In such a case, the opening provided in the blade must be larger to compensate for this less precise positioning. Consequently, in the locked configuration, there remains a greater gap between the locking element and the blade, and the collar is less securely locked in position relative to the bottom of the hull.

[0061] This absence of play between the locking element 20 and the blade 14 is further reinforced by the specific kinematics of the locking element 20 relative to the blade 14 when the locking element 20 moves between its locked and unlocked positions. Indeed, the movement of the locking element 20 is a translational movement directed perpendicularly to the plane in which the blade 14 extends. Thus, the opening 21 can have dimensions adapted to the dimensions of the locking element 20. The opening 21 does not need to be specially enlarged to allow the insertion or extraction of the locking element, as is the case, for example, when the locking element is movable between its locked and unlocked positions by a rotational movement or by a more complex kinematic.

[0062] The locking element 20 is illustrated in more detail in [Fig. 5]. It comprises several portions along axis XI: the locking element 20 includes, in particular, a first portion 24 designed to cooperate with the opening 21 to lock the rotational joint between the collar and the bottom of the shell when the locking element is in the locked position. The first portion 24 may include a shape complementary to the shape of the opening 21, in particular a cylindrical shape whose axis of revolution is parallel to the first axis XI. The opening 21 comprises a circular shape whose diameter is slightly larger than the diameter of the cylindrical shape of the first portion 24 of the locking element. The difference in diameter between the circular shape of the opening 21 and the cylindrical shape of the first portion 24 may be, for example, less than or equal to 3 mm, preferably less than or equal to 2 mm, or even less than or equal to 1 mm. Advantageously, one end of the first portion 24 may be chamfered to facilitate its insertion into the opening 21.

[0063] Alternatively, other shapes of the first portion 24 of the locking element 20 and of the opening 21 could be considered, for example, a triangular, square, rectangular, polygonal, or ovoid shape. According to other embodiments, the locking element 20 and the blade 14 cooperating with the locking element could be different. These two elements could, for example, include raised or negative features, such as rack surfaces, intended to come into contact with each other when the locking element is in the locked position. More generally, each of the two elements could include a stop surface configured to prevent the conjugate element from sliding in the mechanism 13 when the locking element is in the locked position.

[0064] The locking element 20 also includes a second portion 25 comprising said first guiding surface 22. This second portion may include at least one flat face, preferably two opposing flat faces. The at least one flat face may extend parallel to the axis in which the blade 14 moves relative to the locking element 20, i.e., parallel to the axis ZI. This flat face is intended to bear against the blade 14 to guide the movement of the blade relative to the locking element. The second portion 25 may include a prismatic shape, in particular a parallelepiped shape. The second portion 25 may be adjacent to the first portion 24 and may be positioned further forward on the ski boot.

[0065] Advantageously, the blade 14 includes a groove 28. The groove 28 is an opening extending through the thickness of the blade and parallel to the axis along which the blade extends, i.e., parallel to axis ZI. The groove 28 is delimited by two lateral edges extending parallel to axis ZI. The length of the groove 28 along axis ZI is adapted according to the amplitude of deflection of the collar relative to the bottom of the shell when the locking device is in the operating configuration. Said second guide surface 23 is formed by at least one of the two edges of the groove 28, in particular by both edges together. edges being intended to bear against the flat faces of the second portion 25 of the locking element 20.

[0066] The distance separating the two edges of the groove 28 can be slightly greater than the width of the second portion 25 of the locking element 20 along the transverse axis Y. For example, a gap of less than or equal to 3 mm, or even less than or equal to 2 mm, or even less than or equal to 1 mm can be provided between the edges of the groove 28 and the second portion 25 of the locking element 20. Thus, satisfactory guidance of the blade 14 is obtained, and the blade can move relative to the locking element without excessive friction.

[0067] The groove 28 can open onto the opening 21. The assembly formed by the groove 28 and the opening 21 thus forms a single, closed-edge opening shaped like a keyhole. The blade 14 is therefore particularly simple to manufacture.

[0068] According to one embodiment, the blade 14 could be provided without the groove 28, and the guidance between the locking element 20 and the blade 14 could be achieved differently. For example, the blade 14 could comprise a U-shaped profile. The flanges of the U would be spaced slightly further apart than the diameter of the locking element, so that the locking element slides between these two flanges when the collar pivots relative to the bottom of the hull. According to another embodiment, the locking element 20 could comprise substantially the shape of an M. It would include a central portion for cooperating with the opening 21 and lateral flanges for bearing against the outer edges of the blade 14.

[0069] According to yet another variant, the second portion 25 could have a different shape, for example a cylindrical shape. According to another embodiment, the locking element 20 could have a conical or frustoconical shape, the base of the conical or frustoconical shape forming the first portion, and the tip of the conical or frustoconical shape forming the second portion.

[0070] According to yet another embodiment, the blade 14 might not be rotationally mobile about the axis of rotation Y1. It could then, for example, have a certain degree of flexibility allowing the collar to pivot relative to the bottom of the hull about the axis of rotation Y0. The amplitude of rotation between the collar and the bottom of the hull could then be reduced. According to another embodiment, the blade 14 could be replaced by an assembly comprising several articulated parts.

[0071] Advantageously, the housing 19 includes a guide means 26 suitable for guiding the locking element 20 in translation parallel to the axis XL. This guide means 26 is formed in particular by a sleeve whose shape corresponds to the profiled shape of the locking element 20. This guide means makes it possible to control the translational movement along the axis XI of the locking element 20, and thus to further limit any risk of jamming between the locking element and the blade 14.

[0072] The locking element 20 can thus include a third portion 27, in particular cylindrical in shape, cooperating with the complementary shaped sleeve in the housing 19 to guide the locking element in translation parallel to the axis XL.

[0073] According to an embodiment not shown, a diameter of the third portion 27 could be strictly greater than a diameter of the first portion 24. The shoulder formed at the interface between the third portion 27 and the first portion 24 could thus come against the edge of the opening 21, which makes it possible to immobilize the blade 14 when the locking device is in ski configuration.

[0074] Advantageously, the locking element 20 can be a single-piece element, that is, an element formed from a single piece. The locking element 20 could, for example, be machined from a block of metal. Alternatively, the locking element could comprise several parts fastened together; the different portions 24, 25, and 27 of the locking element could, for example, be screwed or welded together. Preferably, the locking element 20 is made of metal, so as to withstand the significant forces that a user may exert while alpine skiing. Alternatively, it could also be made of injection-molded plastic, in particular plastic reinforced with glass or carbon fibers to increase its strength.

[0075] As shown in Figures 3, 6, and 7, the housing 19 may have a generally parallelepiped shape. The housing 19 comprises two lateral sides 29 extending parallel to each other and connected by a wall 30 forming a base of the housing. The wall 30 extends against the blade 14. The housing 19 may be made of a plastic and / or metallic material.

[0076] Advantageously, the locking device includes at least one guide, interposed between the housing 19 and the blade 14, configured to guide the sliding of the blade 14 relative to the housing 19. The at least one guide may comprise a material with anti-stick properties, for example, fiber-reinforced plastic, for example, PTFE-reinforced plastic. Thus, when the user walks in the ski boot, the sliding of the blade 14 generates little or no friction. The at least one guide may be a separate part of the housing, or alternatively, be formed directly into the housing. According to the embodiment presented, the at least one guide comprises two guides 31, each cooperating with a lateral edge of the blade 14. The guides 31 are arranged on either side of the blade 14, inside the opening of the housing 19 within which the blade 14 slides.The guides 31 may each include shoulders bearing against edges of the housing so as to hold the guides in position relative to the housing.

[0077] As noted, as can be clearly seen in [Fig. 6], the wall 30 of the housing may advantageously include a second opening 32 for receiving one end of the locking element 20, in particular the second portion 25 of the element The locking element 20 is held in its locked position. When the locking element 20 is in this position, it is supported both by the guide 26 of the housing 19 and by the edge of the second opening 32. The locking element 20 is thus supported on both sides of the blade 14. During alpine skiing, the significant forces exerted by the user on the cuff are transmitted to the interface between the locking element 20 and the blade 14. The support provided by the locking element 20 on both sides of the blade 14 ensures a stable position for the locking element 20. The locking element 20 therefore does not become misaligned under the significant force exerted by the user, and is thus protected from damage. This prevents the mechanism 13 from being subjected to the forces generated by the user.The second opening 32 may optionally have a shape complementary to the shape of said second portion 25 of the locking element 20.

[0078] The lever 11 includes a wing 33 projecting towards the rear of the ski boot. The wing 33 is intended to be manipulated by the user of the ski boot. The lever 11 also includes a shaft 34 extending parallel to the transverse axis Y. The shaft 34 cooperates with a first pair of openings 35 formed in the lateral sides 29 of the housing 19. The shaft 34 is in the form of a generally cylindrical tube projecting on either side of a body 51 of the lever 11. The lever 11 is thus rotatable relative to the housing 19 about an axis of rotation Y2 parallel to the transverse axis Y. Advantageously, the body 51 of the lever 11 comprises at least one wall, preferably two walls 52A, 52B, of generally cylindrical shape whose axis of revolution corresponds to the axis of rotation Y2.The walls 52A and 52B are positioned respectively above and below the wing 33. The walls 52A and 52B are positioned opposite the opening 50 formed in the collar 3, regardless of the position of the lever 11. More precisely, the wall 52A is positioned opposite the opening 50 when the lever 11 is in the lowered position. The wall 52B is positioned opposite the opening 50 when the lever 11 is in the raised position. The walls 52A and 52B thus prevent snow, water, or any other type of particle from entering the ski boot through the opening 50.

[0079] According to an alternative embodiment, the shaft 34 could be held not by the housing 19 but directly by the collar 3. In this case, the dimensions of the housing 19 could be reduced. In particular, the lateral sides 29 of the housing could be shortened. To connect the lever 11 to the collar 3 by means of a rotational connection, at least one opening can be provided in the collar extending along the axis of rotation Y2. Advantageously, the shaft 34 can then be a separate element from the body 51 of the lever 11. The shaft 34 can then be inserted transversely through the openings provided in the collar 3 for this purpose and through the body of the lever 11.

[0080] The lever 11 also includes stop surfaces 36, 37, designed to cooperate with walls of the collar 3 to limit the amplitude of rotation of the lever about the axis of rotation Y2. A first stop surface 36 bears against a wall of the collar when the lever is in the locked position. A second stop surface 37 bears against a wall of the collar when the lever is in the unlocked position.

[0081] The lever 11 may be a monolithic element, for example, manufactured by plastic injection molding. Alternatively, only the lever body, comprising the wing 33 and the stop surfaces 36, 37, may be a monolithic element, this monolithic element comprising an opening into which the shaft 34 is inserted. Alternatively, the lever 11 could also be manufactured differently and / or result from the assembly of several parts fixed together so as to form a single unit.

[0082] The mechanism 13 allows the locking element 20 to be moved between its locked position and its unlocked position in a particularly advantageous manner. This mechanism 13 will now be described in more detail with reference to Figures 8 to 11.

[0083] In addition to the lever 11, the blade 14, the housing 19, and the locking element 20 described above, the mechanism 13 includes a transmission means mechanically connecting the lever 11 to the locking element 20. The transmission means is configured such that moving the lever 11 to its locked position tends to move the locking element 20 to its locked position. Similarly, moving the lever 11 to its unlocked position tends to move the locking element 20 to its unlocked position.

[0084] According to the embodiment presented, the transmission means comprises a rocker 38 mounted to rotate about a third axis of rotation Y3. The axis of rotation Y3 is parallel to the transverse axis Y. The rocker 38 comprises a first portion 39 extending above the axis of rotation Y3 and a second portion 40 extending below the axis of rotation Y3. When the rocker pivots in a first direction about the axis of rotation Y3, the first portion 39 moves forward and the second portion 40 moves backward. When the rocker pivots in a second direction about the axis of rotation Y3, opposite to the first direction, the first portion 39 moves backward and the second portion 40 moves forward. The rotation axis Y3 extends approximately halfway up the rocker 38 along the vertical axis Z. However, this position of the rotation axis Y3 can be adjusted to adapt the leverage effect produced by the rocker 38..

[0085] More specifically, the mechanism 13 comprises a shaft 41 extending along said axis of rotation Y3 between the two lateral sides 29 of the housing. The shaft 41 extends between a second pair of openings 42 provided in the lateral sides 29, in particular below the first pair of openings 35. The shaft 41 is thus supported by the housing 19. The shaft 41 also passes through a central opening provided in the rocker arm 38. The rotational movement of the rocker arm 38 about the axis of rotation Y3 can be obtained by relative rotation between the rocker arm 38 and the shaft 41 and / or by relative rotation between the shaft 41 and the housing 19. The shaft 41 advantageously includes securing means, in particular enlarged ends, configured to hold the shaft 41 securely to the housing 19. The enlarged end can, for example, be formed by crimping. Alternatively, the shaft 41 could consist of two parts assembled together, each part comprising an enlarged portion.

[0086] The rocker 38 interacts with the lever 11 by means of a return means, in particular a torsion spring 43. The torsion spring 43 comprises a first end 44 in contact with a bearing surface 45 of the lever 11, and a second end 46, opposite its first end 44, in contact with a first bearing surface 47 of the rocker 38. The bearing surface 45 of the lever 11 takes the form of a U-shaped housing, profiled along the transverse axis Y, and within which the first end 44 of the torsion spring 43 is located. The first end 44 is thus held securely against the lever 11. The first bearing surface 47 of the rocker 38 takes the form of an opening passing through the first portion 39 of the rocker.It is therefore understood that the lever 11 is configured to exert pressure against the first bearing surface 47 of the rocker 38 via the torsion spring 43, and thus rotate the rocker 38 around the axis of rotation Y3.

[0087] The torsion spring 43 comprises a set of coils defined around an axis parallel to the transverse axis Y. The torsion spring 43 is designed to be subjected to torsional stress. The maximum compression state of the torsion spring is reached when the distance separating the bearing surfaces 45 and 47 is minimal. This configuration can be achieved when the bearing surfaces 45 and 47 are aligned with the axes of rotation Y3 and Y2. The torsion spring 43 is thus configured so as to be transiently tensioned when the lever is moved between its locked and unlocked positions. The locked and unlocked positions of the lever correspond to states of least tension in the torsion spring 38 and are therefore stable positions. Advantageously, a certain tension remains in the torsion spring when the lever is in the locked or unlocked position, so as to prevent the lever 11 from floating.This residual tension is obtained by the bearing of the abutment surfaces 36 and 37 against the walls of the collar.

[0088] The rocker 38 further comprises a second bearing surface 48 opposite the first bearing surface 47 with respect to the axis of rotation Y3. The second bearing surface 48 is configured to bear against the locking element 20 to move the locking element between its locked position and its unlocked position. More specifically, the lower end of the rocker 38 is engaged in A recess 49 is formed in the locking element. The second bearing surface 48 therefore corresponds to the end of the rocker 38 embedded in the recess 49. As can be seen in [Fig. 5], the recess 49 can advantageously be formed in the third portion 27 of the locking element 20. The recess 49 can, for example, be a blind hole of cylindrical shape. The edges of the recess 49 can be flared to facilitate the pivoting movement of the rocker 38.

[0089] According to an embodiment not shown, the rocker 38 could comprise a toothed rounded portion, provided with a plurality of radially extending teeth, and the locking element could comprise a rack portion cooperating with the toothed rounded portion. According to yet another embodiment, the locking element could comprise a protrusion projecting from a cylindrical body of the locking element 20, and the lower end of the rocker could comprise a recess cooperating with this protrusion.

[0090] The locking device 10 operates as follows. When the user wishes to switch from ski mode to walking mode, they raise the wing 33, which rotates the lever around the axis of rotation Y2. This causes the bearing surface 45 of the lever 11 to move towards the rear of the ski boot, which tends to bring the bearing surface 45 closer to the first bearing surface 47 of the rocker 38. The torsion spring 43 becomes tensioned until it reaches a maximum tension value corresponding approximately to the midpoint of the wing 33's travel between its lowered and raised positions. Then, the bearing surface 45 moves away from the first bearing surface 47 again, and the tension of the torsion spring 43 decreases once more. In addition, the torsion spring 43 transmits the force applied to the lever 11 to the rocker 38. The first portion 39 of the rocker 38 moves forward.By levering around the shaft 41, the second portion 40 of the rocker 38 moves rearward. The second bearing surface 48, arranged on the second portion 40 of the rocker, then exerts rearward pressure on the locking element 20. The locking element 20 is thus moved rearward, i.e., from its locked position to its unlocked position. In the unlocked position, the second portion 25 of the locking element 20 is positioned in the opening 21 formed in the blade 14. The second portion 25 can slide in the groove 28 of the blade. Thus, the locking element 20 does not prevent the blade 14 from translating within the housing. The articulation between the collar and the bottom of the housing is thus released. This configuration is illustrated in particular in [Fig. 10]. The user can then comfortably walk with the ski boot.When the user walks, the collar pivots relative to the bottom of the shell, inducing back-and-forth movements of the blade within the housing. This back-and-forth movement is guided by the interaction of the surfaces of... guides 22 and 23, and by the cooperation of the two guides 31 with the edges of the blade 14. The locking element 20 remains very well positioned relative to the blade 14 during the practice of walking, which subsequently facilitates a new locking operation of the locking device.

[0091] The locking operation can be performed similarly by lowering the wing 33 of the lever 11. Two scenarios are possible. In the first scenario, the locking element is positioned exactly opposite the opening 21 when the wing 33 is pivoted downwards. This scenario is obtained if, at the moment the lever 11 is operated, the inclination of the collar relative to the bottom of the shell corresponds exactly to the inclination of the "ski" configuration. In this case, the locking element 20 enters the opening 21 without striking the blade 14, and the movement of the locking element from the unlocked position to the locked position is immediate. In doing so, the first portion 24 of the locking element is positioned in the opening 21 of the blade, and the second portion 25 is positioned in the second opening 32 formed in the wall 30 of the housing.This locking device configuration is illustrated in Figure 12. The precise fit between the locking element 20 and the opening 21 allows the rotational joint between the cuff and the lower shell to be effectively and firmly locked. This provides the user with a rigid ski boot that efficiently transmits their impulses for alpine skiing and reduces the risk of injury, particularly to the knees.

[0092] In a second scenario, the locking element 20 is not positioned exactly opposite the opening 21 when the wing 33 is pivoted downwards. This scenario occurs if, at the time the lever 11 is operated, the inclination of the collar relative to the bottom of the shell does not exactly correspond to the inclination of the "ski" configuration. In this case, and as illustrated in [Fig. 11], the locking element 20 remains in the unlocked position while the lever 11 is in the locked position. The locking element 20 then bears against the blade 14, and the torsion spring 43 remains under tension. In particular, the flat faces 53 framing the second prismatic portion 25 are then in contact with the blade 14 on either side of the groove 28. In this so-called "armed" configuration of the locking device, the blade 14 can still slide freely relative to the locking element 20.The force exerted by the torsion spring 43 on the locking element 20 can generate increased friction forces when the blade 14 slides. However, these friction forces remain negligible and / or are imperceptible to the user.

[0093] When the user flexes the collar sufficiently forward, the locking element 20 positions itself opposite the opening 21. The torsion spring 43 can then relax at least partially, and the locking element 20 can move towards its locking position. The locking device then switches from its armed configuration to its locking configuration.

[0094] According to an original aspect of the invention, the blade 14 further comprises a bearing surface 55 intended to interact with the lever 11 to automatically move the lever 11 towards its locking position, that is to say to rotate the lever 11 around the axis of rotation Y2 towards its locking position.

[0095] As explained previously, the blade 14 is free to move in translation relative to the collar 3, and therefore relative to the lever 11, which is rotationally fixed to the collar. The invention thus proposes to use the freedom of the blade 14 relative to the collar to exert an action on the lever. The bearing surface 55 of the blade is therefore designed to interact with the lever 11, in particular to come into direct contact with a receiving surface 56 of the lever 11 when the lever is in the unlocked position. The receiving surface 56 is positioned on the path of the bearing surface 55 of the blade when the blade 14 moves relative to the collar and the lever is in the unlocked position. The direct contact between the blade 14 and the lever 11 is illustrated in particular in [Fig. 10].

[0096] As illustrated in Figures 11 and 12, when the lever 11 is in the locking position, the receiving surface 56 is positioned out of the path of the support surface 55.

[0097] The bearing surface 55 corresponds to an upper edge of the blade 14, or even to a horizontal edge delimiting an upper edge of the blade on its rear face. The bearing surface 55 is therefore positioned at the level of an upper end of the blade 14, that is to say the end of the blade opposite the axis of rotation Yl.

[0098] The receiving surface 56 is formed on the body 51 of the lever 11. In particular, the body 51 of the lever 11 may advantageously include a flat surface 57 on which the receiving surface 56 is formed. This flat surface 57 extends parallel to the blade 14 when the lever is in the locked position. The flat surface 57 forms a non-zero angle Al with the axis in which the blade 14 extends when the lever is in the unlocked position. The angle Al may, for example, be between 30° and 60°, in particular approximately 45°.

[0099] The receiving surface 56 is offset relative to the axis of rotation Y2 of the lever 11. Advantageously, an offset dl between the receiving surface 56 and the axis of rotation Y2, measured parallel to the axis XI, can be at least 5 mm, or even at least 10 mm. Thus, the pressure exerted by the blade 14 on the receiving surface 56 tends to rotate the lever 11 around the axis of rotation Y2. In particular, the upward pressure of the blade on the lever 11 tends to rotate the lever 11 towards its locking position.

[0100] The wing 33 and the receiving surface 56 can be diametrically opposed, that is to say that the axis of rotation Y2 can extend between the wing 33 and the receiving surface 56.

[0101] As explained previously, the lever 11 can be made of plastic and the blade 14 can be made of metal. To prevent the blade 14 from wearing down or damaging the lever 11, the bearing surface 55 can be chamfered, polished, or even curved. Alternatively, the lever could also be made of metal.

[0102] When a user wishes to put on the shoe 1, they move the lever 11 to the unlocked position and loosen the fastening means, in particular the fastening means 5B, if this has not already been done. Next, they tilt the collar backward to enlarge the opening of the shoe and easily insert their foot. The collar then reaches a sufficient backward and downward tilt so that the bearing surface 55 of the blade 14 comes into direct contact with the lever 11. The contact of the bearing surface 55 with the receiving surface 56 causes the lever to automatically rotate from its unlocked position to its locked position. The locking device is then in the armed position.Next, the user simply tightens the 5B fastening means and leans their lower leg forward to move the locking mechanism from its armed configuration to its skiing configuration, i.e., a configuration in which the cuff is locked against rotation relative to the lower shell. The user thus obtains automatic locking of the rotational joint between the cuff and the lower shell as soon as they have tightened the cuff fastening means 5B. The user therefore does not need to manually move lever 11 to its locking position. This action is performed automatically when putting on the boot and inserting the foot. The user is thus assured of the correct locking of the joint between the cuff and the lower shell, and can ski safely.

[0103] When a user wishes to walk in the shoe 1, they move the lever 11 to the unlocked position and loosen the fastening means, in particular the fastening means 5B. The articulation between the cuff 3 and the lower shell 2 is then free, and the lower leg also benefits from a large volume within the cuff, since the cuff is not constricting the lower leg. The user can thus walk comfortably. When the user walks, the cuff pivots relative to the lower shell, but not enough for the bearing surface 55 of the blade 14 to come into direct contact with the lever 11. Indeed, since the fastening means 5B are loosened, the lower leg already benefits from an increased volume which facilitates walking, and the cuff 3 does not need to pivot relative to the lower shell 2 through a large range of motion.The collar therefore never reaches a position sufficiently inclined backwards to trigger the rotation of the lever towards its locking position by action of the bearing surface 55 on the receiving surface 56.

[0104] When the user wishes to switch from walking mode to ski mode in the conventional way, they can directly and manually operate the lever to switch it from walking mode to ski mode. Alternatively, the user could also extend their foot sufficiently to cause the lever 21 to pivot by contact of the blade 14 against the lever 21.

[0105] Finally, thanks to the invention, a particularly effective locking device 10 is available, ergonomic to use, and guarantees user safety. The locking device comprises a limited number of components. It is therefore simple to manufacture, compact, and lightweight.

Claims

Demands

1. Ski boot (1) comprising a lower shell (2), a cuff (3) articulated for rotation relative to the lower shell, and a locking device (10) for locking a joint in rotation between the lower shell (2) and the cuff (3), the locking device comprising: - a locking element (20) movable between a locking position and an unlocking position, - a blade (14) intended to cooperate with the locking element to lock the joint in rotation when the locking element is in the locking position, - a lever (11) adapted to be manipulated by a user, the lever being movable between a locking position and an unlocking position, - a transmission means connecting the lever to the locking element,the transmission means being configured such that the movement of the lever towards its locking position tends to move the locking element towards its locking position and the movement of the lever towards its unlocking position tends to move the locking element towards its unlocking position, characterized in that the blade comprises a bearing surface (55) intended to interact with the lever to move the lever towards its locking position.

2. Ski boot (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the bearing surface (55) is intended to come into direct contact with a receiving surface (56) of the lever to move the lever to its locking position.

3. Ski boot (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the blade (14) is mounted movable in rotation about a first axis of rotation (Y 1), the blade being intended to pivot about said first axis of rotation and to slide relative to the lever (11) when the cuff pivots relative to the bottom of the shell.

4. Ski boot (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the blade (14) comprises a first end and a second end opposite to the first end, the blade (14) being mounted movable in rotation about a first axis of rotation (Yl) positioned at its first end, said support surface being positioned at its second end.

5. Ski boot (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said bearing surface (55) of the blade (14) is formed by an edge of the blade (14), in particular an upper edge of the blade.

6. Ski boot (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the lever (11) is rotationally mobile about a second axis of rotation (Y2) between its locked position and its unlocked position, and in that the lever includes a receiving surface (56) intended to come into direct contact with the bearing surface (55) of the blade, the receiving surface being offset with respect to the second axis of rotation.

7. Ski boot (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the transmission means comprises a rocker (38) mounted movable in rotation about a third axis of rotation (Y3), the rocker comprising a first support surface (47) and a second support surface (48) opposite to the first support surface with respect to the third axis of rotation, the lever being configured to exert a support against the first support surface to rotate the rocker about the third axis of rotation, the second support surface being configured to exert a support against the locking element to move the locking element between its locking position and its unlocking position.

8. Ski boot (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the transmission means further comprises a return means, in particular a torsion spring (43), the return means comprising a first end (44) and a second end (46) opposite the first end, the first end being in contact with the lever, the second end being in contact with the first bearing surface (47) of the rocker (38), the return means being configured so as to be transiently energized when the lever is moved between its locking position and its unlocking position.

9. Ski boot (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the locking element (20) is movable in translation parallel to a fourth axis (XI) between its locked position and its unlocked position, and in that the blade (14) moves in a plane substantially perpendicular to the fourth axis when the collar (3) pivots relative to the bottom of the hull (2).

10. Ski boot (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the locking element (20) comprises a lug, and in that the blade (14) comprises a first opening (21) comprising a form complementary to a form of the lug, the lug cooperating with the first opening (21) when the locking element is in the locking position.

11. Method for automatically locking a rotating joint between the cuff and the bottom of the shell of a ski boot according to any one of the preceding claims, the locking method comprising pivoting the cuff relative to the bottom of the shell so that the bearing surface (55) of the blade (14) interacts with the lever and moves the lever to its locking position.

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