Adjustable Ski Jump Inrun Track via Variable Spacer Elements

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing sliding surface element systems for ski jumping facilities lack the ability to be easily and precisely adapted to various contours and profiles, such as the FIS profile, which requires adjustable height and alignment of the ski tracks.

Innovation Solution

The introduction of spacer elements with variable longitudinal dimensions allows for precise adjustment of the height and alignment of the sliding surface elements, using threaded bolts and screw nuts for millimeter-precision adaptation to any desired profile, and can be made from materials like steel, plastic, or carbon to withstand forces.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If sliding surface elements are fixed in position, then structural stability is improved, but adaptability to different contours and profiles deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural stabilityVSAvoidadaptability to contours and profiles
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the sliding surface elements adjustable in position and orientation through spacer elements with variable longitudinal dimensions. The elements can be moved along the inrun track and repositioned to adapt to different contours and profiles while maintaining structural stability through controlled mounting mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies segmentation by dividing the inrun track into multiple adjustable sliding surface element modules. Each module can be independently positioned and adjusted using spacer elements, allowing the entire system to be configured for different profiles while maintaining overall structural integrity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If sliding surface elements are made adjustable, then adaptability to different profiles is improved, but device complexity deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to FIS profileVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by designing spacer elements with variable longitudinal dimensions that can be used throughout the entire inrun track system. These multi-functional spacers serve as both positioning elements and height-adjustment mechanisms, reducing the need for multiple specialized components and simplifying the overall system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies parameter changes by utilizing spacer elements whose longitudinal dimensions can be varied to adjust the height and position of sliding surface elements. This single parameter change (spacer length) enables adaptation to different profiles without requiring complex mechanical adjustments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Ease of manufacture

If traditional fixed mounting is used, then ease of manufacture is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanufacturing simplicityVSAvoidadjustment ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by pre-manufacturing spacer elements with specific longitudinal dimensions that can be selected and installed during assembly. This preliminary preparation of adjustable components allows for easy on-site configuration and adjustment of the inrun track profile without complex manufacturing operations during installation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentEP2838626B1Inrun track system for ski-jumping facilities/ski-jump
Publication Date: 2016.07.20 CERAMTEC ETEC GMBH
  • EP2838626B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2838626B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2838626B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to a structure for a system with at least one sliding surface element (14), preferably as run-in track systems for ski jump systems / ski jumps. It is proposed that the height and/or the course of the sliding surface elements (14) has to be adjusted to any profile by spacer elements (30).