Pivoting Binding Coupling with Spring Back for Pressure Distribution

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing skate and ski binding technologies do not effectively allow for the even distribution of pressure along the length of the foot, limiting comfort and performance for ice skaters, inline skaters, and skiers.

Innovation Solution

A chassis system with interconnected upper and lower sections featuring a coupling mechanism that includes a spring back component, allowing for pivoting and adjustable spring back functionality, enabling even pressure distribution from heel to toe.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If a rigid coupling means is used to connect upper and lower chassis sections, then structural strength is improved, but the ability to distribute pressure evenly along the foot length deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural strengthVSAvoidpressure distribution
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The coupling means transitions from a rigid static connection to a dynamic system that allows controlled movement. The upper chassis section can pivot relative to the lower chassis section within a controlled range, enabling the system to adapt to foot pressure variations while maintaining structural integrity through the spring back component.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system introduces adjustable parameters through the spring back component, which can be modified to change the coupling characteristics. This allows tuning of the pressure distribution characteristics while maintaining the structural connection between chassis sections.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Ease of manufacture

If a fixed coupling means is used to connect chassis sections, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but adjustability for different users deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanufacturing simplicityVSAvoidadjustability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The coupling means incorporates adjustable elements that allow the system to adapt to different users and conditions. The spring back component can be modified or repositioned to change coupling characteristics, providing versatility while maintaining a relatively simple manufacturing process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The coupling means is divided into separate functional components including the spring back element and the pivot mechanism. This segmentation allows for easier manufacturing of individual parts while enabling adjustment of the overall system characteristics through reconfiguration of these modular components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Device complexity

If a simple coupling means is used to connect chassis sections, then device complexity is reduced, but the spring back effect deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice complexityVSAvoidspring back effect
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The spring back component is designed with specific geometric parameters and material properties that can be optimized to achieve the desired spring back effect. By carefully selecting and adjusting these parameters, the system achieves reliable elastic recovery without requiring complex mechanical structures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The spring back component acts as an intermediary element between the upper and lower chassis sections. This intermediate component provides the necessary elastic response and couples the two chassis sections while maintaining system simplicity through its straightforward mechanical action.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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

Enhances comfort and performance by allowing for smoother shifting of the center of gravity and adjustable hardness, providing a sturdier and more adjustable coupling compared to previous technologies.

Implementation Method 1

The coupling means includes at least one spring back component running in the chassis longitudinal direction

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS8857823B2Coupling means
Publication Date: 2014.10.14 FLOW MOTION TECH AB
  • US8857823B2 patent drawing
  • US8857823B2 patent drawing
  • US8857823B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A coupling means arranged in a binding, the binding including an upper chassis section and a lower chassis section which are engaged via the coupling means, and which are pivotally arranged relative to each other in a longitudinal direction, the coupling means comprising a spring back component arranged at either chassis section; and at least one bolt element arranged for engaging, at at least one selected position, with the other chassis section and being arranged on an opposite side of the spring back component in relation to that other chassis section, so that when the chassis sections are pivoted in relation to each other, the spring back component is lifted by the at least one bolt element thereby counteracting the pivoting movement.