One-Piece Multi-Edge Configuration for Snowboard Steering
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Snowboards and skis with non-sharp or poor edges struggle to cut into snow and ice, making them difficult to steer and corner effectively.
Innovation Solution
A snowboard or ski with a one-piece multi-edge configuration, where the first and second edges, along with an edge tab, are formed from a single piece of continuous material, providing improved strength, durability, and cornering capabilities by aggressively engaging snow and ice.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional multi-part edge configurations are used, then manufacturing flexibility is maintained, but edge strength and durability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate edge components (edge strips, edge tabs, and edge features) into a single integrated one-piece edge configuration. This is achieved by forming the edge as a continuous piece of material that is monolithically integrated with the snowboard or ski core, eliminating the need for separate attachment components and thereby significantly improving edge strength and durability while reducing overall structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The one-piece edge configuration utilizes composite material construction, combining different materials (such as metal edge strips with polymer or wood core) into a single integrated structure. This allows the edge to benefit from the strength and sharpness of metal while being monolithically connected to the lighter, more flexible core material, achieving optimal performance characteristics.
2Ease of operation
If one-piece multi-edge configuration is implemented, then cornering performance is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The one-piece edge configuration is pre-formed during the core manufacturing process itself, rather than being attached as a separate component afterward. The edge features are created as integral parts of the core structure through molding or forming operations performed while the core material is still in a workable state, thereby simplifying the overall manufacturing process despite the increased complexity of the final edge geometry.
3Ease of operation
If edges are made sharper for better snow engagement, then steering capability is enhanced, but edge durability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The edge configuration uses composite material construction, combining different materials (such as metal edge strips with polymer or wood core) into a single integrated structure. This allows the edge to benefit from the strength and sharpness of metal while being monolithically connected to the lighter, more flexible core material, achieving optimal performance characteristics.
Data Source
AI summary
A one-piece multi-edge for a snowboard or a ski, includes: a first edge having a first base face and a first outer side face that converge at a first outer corner; and a second edge extending directly from the first edge, the second edge having a second base face and a second outer side face that converge at a second outer corner, the first edge and the second edge being integrally formed as a single unitary member.