Gliding Device Shape Control via Force Transfer Element
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Solution Overview
Problem
Increasing stiffness in gliding devices like skis and snowboards to enhance performance often results in added weight, which is undesirable.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an Omnidirectional progressive Ski performance Control system (OSC) that dynamically modulates the gliding device's shape through longitudinal deflection, using force transfer elements to deflect side elements along the binding region, thereby adjusting the gliding surface's concavity or convexity to achieve desired stiffness without significant weight increase.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If stiffness is increased in a gliding device to enhance performance, then performance characteristics such as vibration reduction and edge control are improved, but weight of the gliding device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the gliding surface shape changeable through longitudinal deflection. The force transfer element moves longitudinally in response to deflection, dynamically altering the concavity/convexity of the gliding surface to provide stiffness only when needed during use, rather than maintaining constant stiffness throughout the device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the gliding surface by modifying its concavity and convexity through longitudinal deflection. The force transfer element's movement alters the shape parameters of the gliding surface, enabling stiffness adjustment without adding material weight.
2Strength
If a rigid structure is used to provide stiffness, then performance is improved, but the device becomes heavier
Solution Approach 1:
The structure transitions from a static rigid design to a dynamic system where the gliding surface shape adapts during use. The force transfer element responds to longitudinal deflection by moving and altering the surface concavity, providing rigidity only when deflection occurs rather than requiring constant structural rigidity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by concentrating the stiffness-modifying mechanism at the binding region where longitudinal deflection occurs. The force transfer element and its interaction with the gliding surface create localized concavity/convexity changes rather than requiring global structural reinforcement throughout the entire device.
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 improved stiffness and performance characteristics, such as vibration reduction and dynamic flex control, while maintaining a lightweight design by dynamically altering the gliding surface's shape in response to deflection, thus balancing performance and weight.
Implementation Method 1
In response to longitudinal deflection of the gliding device, causing at least one force transfer element to move longitudinally relative to the gliding device
Data Source
AI summary
A method of changing a shape of a gliding surface of a gliding device may involve, in response to longitudinal deflection of the gliding device, causing at least one force transfer element to move longitudinally relative to the gliding device. Causing the at least one force transfer element to move longitudinally relative to the gliding device may involve causing the at least one force transfer element to deflect first and second laterally opposite side elements of the gliding device along a portion of the gliding device extending longitudinally along a binding region of the gliding device. Apparatuses and gliding devices are also disclosed.