Ice Skate Attachment Assembly for Stability Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional ice skates with single runner blades are unstable for novice skaters, leading to increased costs as they outgrow beginner ice skates with multiple runner blades once they become proficient.
Innovation Solution
An ice skate attachment assembly that converts a single runner blade ice skate into a multiple runner blade skate using a skate guard with a channel and detachably secured multi-runner blades, allowing for improved stability at a lower cost and easy conversion back to a traditional skate guard.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of stationary object
If a single runner blade ice skate is used, then the cost is reduced, but the stability for novice skaters deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The skate system is segmented into two configurations: a single runner blade for proficient skaters and multiple runner blades for novice skaters. The attachment assembly allows the skate to be divided into functional segments that can be reconfigured based on skill level, providing stability when needed while maintaining cost-effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The skate configuration is made dynamic and adjustable rather than fixed. The attachment assembly can be added or removed based on the skater's proficiency level, allowing the stability characteristics to change dynamically with the user's skill development.
2Stability of the object's composition
If beginner ice skates with multiple runner blades are purchased, then the stability is improved, but the cost increases and the skates are soon outgrown
Solution Approach 1:
The skate system becomes universal by serving multiple functions across different skill levels. A single pair of skates can function as both beginner skates with multiple runner blades and advanced skates with a single runner blade, eliminating the need to purchase separate skate sets for different proficiency levels.
Solution Approach 2:
The skate configuration transitions from a static, fixed design to a dynamic, adjustable system. The attachment assembly allows the skate to adapt its runner blade configuration based on the skater's evolving needs, extending the usable life of the equipment.
3Ease of manufacture
If a traditional skate guard is used, then the blade protection is provided, but the conversion to multiple runner blades is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment assembly serves multiple functions: it acts as a skate guard to protect the blade when not in use, and simultaneously serves as a mounting structure for multiple runner blades when needed. This multi-functionality combines blade protection with configuration adaptability in a single device.
Solution Approach 2:
The functions of blade protection (skate guard) and multi-runner blade support are merged into a single integrated assembly. Rather than being separate components, the guard and attachment structure are combined, allowing both functions to be performed by one device.
Data Source
AI summary
An ice skate attachment assembly for converting a single runner blade ice skate into as multiple runner blade ice skate is provided. The assembly includes a skate guard having a bottom surface and including a channel for receiving and supporting the single runner blade of the ice skate. The assembly further includes at least two multi-runner blades secured with the skate guard and being laterally spaced from one another on either lateral side of the skate guard with each of the multi-runner blades extending below the bottom surface of the skate guard to an ice-engaging edge.