Adjustable Equestrian Saddle Block for Versatile Leg Engagement
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional equestrian saddles require multiple specialized designs for different riding uses, making them expensive and impractical for manufacturers to produce a range of configurations, as existing adjustable solutions either require multiple replaceable parts or complex mounting systems.
Innovation Solution
The saddle flap features enlarged, elongate apertures for threaded fasteners that allow adjustable positioning and angular orientation of a block for rider leg engagement, enabling flexible adjustment between forward, rear, and intermediate positions without visible external components, allowing for a range of block sizes and shapes to be used.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple specialized saddle designs are produced for different riding uses, then the saddle can provide optimal performance for specific disciplines, but the cost and complexity of production increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The block is made adjustable rather than fixed, allowing the saddle to dynamically adapt to different riding disciplines. The block can be repositioned along the flap and rotated to change its contouring characteristics, enabling a single saddle to serve multiple purposes such as dressage, jumping, and general purpose riding without requiring multiple specialized designs
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustable block mechanism provides universal functionality across different riding disciplines. By allowing the block to be repositioned and reoriented, a single saddle design can fulfill the requirements of various equestrian activities, eliminating the need for separate specialized saddles for each discipline
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple replaceable flap parts are provided for different uses, then the saddle can be adjusted to suit different primary uses, but the cost increases as users must acquire multiple parts
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of requiring multiple static replaceable parts, the invention implements a dynamic adjustment system where a single block can be repositioned and reoriented on the flap. This eliminates the need for users to acquire and manage multiple replaceable flap parts while still providing the ability to adapt to different riding uses
Solution Approach 2:
The invention combines multiple adjustment functions (positioning and rotation) into a single integrated block system. Rather than requiring separate replaceable parts for different configurations, the single block can achieve multiple configurations through adjustment, reducing the total quantity of parts needed
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional fixed blocks are used, then the saddle structure remains simple, but the saddle cannot be adjusted for different riding disciplines
Solution Approach 1:
The block transitions from a fixed to an adjustable configuration, enabling adaptability for different riding disciplines. The mounting system incorporates adjustment mechanisms that allow the block to be repositioned along the flap and rotated, providing the necessary versatility while maintaining structural integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The block's position and orientation parameters can be changed to suit different riding disciplines. By modifying these parameters through the adjustment mechanism, the saddle can be optimized for various uses such as dressage, jumping, or general purpose riding without changing the fundamental saddle structure
4Adaptability or versatility
If adjustment mechanisms are added to the saddle, then the saddle can be customized for different uses, but visible external components may compromise aesthetic appeal
Solution Approach 1:
The aperture acts as an intermediary that conceals the adjustment mechanism. The threaded fastener moves within the aperture, and when the block is in its adjusted position, the aperture is obscured by the block itself or the flap material, hiding the mechanical components from external view and preserving the aesthetic appearance
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
An equestrian saddle having flaps (2), and a block (4) mounted to each flap for engagement by the leg of the rider, the block being mounted to the flap by a mounting system which permits the position of the block on the flap to be adjusted and which retains the block in its selected position on the flap by a clamping action between the block and the flap.