Circular Cam Track Adjustment Screw for Ski Bindings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ski binding adjustment devices face challenges in providing a simple, easy-to-operate mechanism for adjusting the release force of compression springs, with small changes in spring compression being difficult to read due to small markings on scales, making it hard to set and verify the release force effectively.
Innovation Solution
An adjustment device featuring a coupling member with cam tracks and an adjusting member, where a small rotation leads to a large linear movement of the coupling member, compressing or relieving the spring, and a scale is provided for easy reading of the set release force through a window, with visible indicators for clear readability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a scale with fine markings is used to show small changes in compression spring compression, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates because the markings are difficult to read
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the reading mechanism from a linear scale to a circular dial scale. The release force value is indicated by a pointer on a circular dial with markings arranged circumferentially, allowing the value to be read from any rotational position. This dimensional change from linear to circular arrangement improves readability while maintaining precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses color coding on the dial scale to enhance readability. Different segments of the dial are colored to indicate different release force ranges, making it easier for users to quickly identify the set value without straining to read fine markings. The color changes provide visual cues that complement the numerical markings.
2Productivity
If the adjustment member is rotated to achieve large linear movement of the coupling member, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases due to the cam track mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs curved cam tracks instead of linear guides to transform rotational motion into linear displacement. The cam tracks are shaped such that rotation of the adjustment member follows a curved path that converts angular movement into the desired linear movement of the coupling member, achieving mechanical advantage through geometric curvature.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam track mechanism provides dynamic adjustment capability where the relationship between rotational input and linear output varies throughout the rotation cycle. This allows for optimized adjustment speed at different positions, with the mechanism adapting its mechanical advantage ratio dynamically as the adjustment member rotates through its range of motion.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution allows for precise adjustment of the release force with audible clicks for secure locking, enabling users to easily set and verify the release force, enhancing safety and usability.
Implementation Method 1
The coupling member has at least two cam tracks on its side facing the setting member and the setting member has at least two cam tracks on its side facing the coupling member
Data Source
AI summary
Adjusting device for adjusting the release force of a compression spring on a shoe holding unit, comprising a compression spring (11), an adjusting element (2) and a coupling element (3) arranged between the compression spring (1) and the adjusting element (2), wherein the coupling element (3) has at least one cam track (4; 5) on its side facing the adjusting element (2) and the adjusting element (2) has at least one cam track (4; 5) on its side facing the coupling element (3).