Elastomeric Strap Foot Binding for Water Recreation Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional foot binding systems for water recreation devices are difficult for novice riders to use, restrict alternative riding positions, and often compromise comfort and safety due to their design and hardware components.
Innovation Solution
A multifunction engagement apparatus comprising a foot pad and strap that can be used as a foot binding system or contact cushion, made of elastomeric materials, allowing riders to transition between prone, kneeling, and standing positions by collapsing and uncollapsing the strap for different riding configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional foot binding systems are used, then riders can be securely engaged with the water recreation device, but novice riders find it difficult to use and cannot start from stable positions
Solution Approach 1:
The foot binding system is designed to be dynamic rather than static. The binding can transition between an engaged configuration (when feet are inserted) and a disengaged/configuration-free state (when feet are removed), allowing riders to freely change positions. This dynamic design enables novice riders to start in stable positions and transition to riding positions as needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The foot binding system serves multiple functions: it provides secure engagement when feet are inserted, allows free position changes when feet are removed, and does not obstruct alternative riding positions. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction between ease of use and adaptability by making the system versatile enough to accommodate different rider skill levels and preferences.
2Adaptability or versatility
If foot binding systems are positioned on the surface of the water recreation device, then riders can be secured, but the bindings obstruct alternate use and prevent prone positions
Solution Approach 1:
The foot binding system is designed to be extractable or removable from the riding surface. When not in use for foot engagement, the binding can be collapsed or removed, clearing the surface area needed for riders to assume prone positions comfortably. This extraction principle resolves the conflict between securing riders and allowing alternate positions.
3Ease of operation
If baseplates protrude upward from the surface, then foot binding function is provided, but uncomfortable contact points are created for riders
Solution Approach 1:
The foot binding system uses flexible, soft materials for components that contact the rider's body. The baseplates and straps are made from compliant materials that conform to body contours and eliminate uncomfortable pressure points, while still providing effective foot binding function. This flexible material approach resolves the contradiction between functional performance and rider comfort.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If retractable foot binding systems are used, then rider comfort is improved, but hardware components create obstacles and safety hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The retractable foot binding system uses soft, flexible materials throughout its construction, eliminating hard hardware components like metal hinges and rigid straps. The entire system is made from compliant elastomeric materials that are safe for rider contact and eliminate pinching hazards, while maintaining the retractable functionality for comfort during prone positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The foot binding system employs composite elastomeric materials that combine the properties of flexibility, strength, and safety. These composite materials provide the necessary structural integrity for foot binding while simultaneously offering softness and compliance for rider comfort and safety, resolving the contradiction between comfort and device complexity.
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
Enables comfortable and safe use of water recreation devices by novice riders, allowing for versatile riding positions without the obtrusiveness and safety hazards of traditional systems, enhancing user experience and accessibility.
Implementation Method 1
The strap may be moveable between an uncollapsed position and a collapsed position. The outer cover may be releasable from either or both of a first and a second end of the multifunction strap to selectively cover or expose a lace system.
Data Source
AI summary
A multifunction engagement apparatus for use with a water recreation device may include a foot pad and a multifunction strap. The multifunction strap may be positioned to overlie the substantially flat foot pad, and may be moveable between an uncollapsed position and a collapsed position. In the uncollapsed position, the multifunction strap may present a generally arcuate foot opening between the strap and the top surface of the foot pad. In the collapsed position, the multifunction strap may present a substantially flat contact cushion atop the foot pad. The multifunction strap may have elastic properties that allow for selective positioning of the multifunction engagement member for use by a towed rider as the rider transitions between prone, kneeling, and/or standing positions atop a water recreation device.