Cellular Shock-Absorbing Ski Boot Element for Precision Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing alpine ski boots compromise between comfort and precision, failing to provide both effective control of skis and adequate protection, while also being lightweight, robust, and easy to manufacture and use.
Innovation Solution
A ski or snowboard boot element featuring a shock-absorbing layer with open cells, each comprising a base and elastic segments that deform under pressure, integrated into the tibial bearing zone and rear support, allowing for precise and effortless guidance while maintaining comfort and durability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional ski boot structures are used, then precise ski guidance is achieved, but comfort and shock absorption deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The boot structure is segmented into distinct functional zones: a rigid shell for precision control, a flexible liner for comfort, and a shock-absorbing element with cellular structure for impact mitigation. This segmentation allows each component to optimize its specific function without compromising the others.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention employs composite construction combining rigid materials (for shell and support structures) with flexible materials (for liner and shock-absorbing elements). The shock-absorbing element itself uses a composite cellular structure that provides both cushioning and structural integrity, resolving the contradiction between precision and comfort.
2Measurement precision
If rigid boot structures are used, then ski control precision is improved, but comfort and adaptability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The boot incorporates dynamic elements including a flexible liner that adapts to the skier's leg shape, a shock-absorbing element that dynamically responds to impact forces, and articulated components that move with the skier's movements. These dynamic features provide adaptability while the rigid shell maintains control precision.
Solution Approach 2:
Different parts of the boot have different rigidity and flexibility characteristics optimized for their specific functions. The shell is rigid for control, the liner is flexible for comfort and adaptation, and the shock-absorbing element has localized cellular structures that provide targeted cushioning. This local differentiation resolves the contradiction between precision and adaptability.
3Strength
If heavy robust boot structures are used, then durability and protection are improved, but weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The shock-absorbing element uses a porous cellular structure that provides high strength-to-weight ratio. The cellular geometry distributes loads efficiently, providing durability and protection while minimizing weight compared to solid structures. This porous architecture resolves the contradiction between strength and weight.
Solution Approach 2:
The boot structure is segmented into components that provide strength only where needed: the rigid shell at critical impact zones, the shock-absorbing element in high-stress areas, and lighter materials in less critical regions. This selective segmentation maintains durability while reducing overall weight.
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
The boot element enhances control and reduces muscle effort during skiing by providing a rebound effect, allowing for precise ski guidance with reduced fatigue, while being adaptable to different user needs and easy to manufacture.
Implementation Method 1
each cell comprising an open structure capable of deforming as a result of pressure on said bearing surface
Implementation Method 2
shock-absorbing element comprising at least one layer formed by a set of juxtaposed cells
Implementation Method 3
providing a rebound effect, allowing for precise ski guidance with reduced fatigue
Data Source
Figure 1~4C
Figure 5~8
Figure 9~12
AI summary
Ski or snowboard boot element (110, 120, 121, 122), characterized in that it comprises a shock-absorbing element (1, 11, 21, 31, 41, 130) comprising at least one layer formed by a set of juxtaposed cells (2, 12, 22, 32, 42), the layer comprising a bearing surface (S1), each cell comprising an open structure capable of deforming following pressure on said bearing surface (S1).