Reconfigurable Wakesurf Binding Using Threaded Inserts

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current wakesurf bindings lack adjustability, often requiring multiple penetrations into the board, which can compromise its structure and allow water penetration, and do not accommodate user preferences for foot size, stance, or binding tension.

Innovation Solution

A reconfigurable wakesurf binding system with a strap interconnection system that uses a matrix of holes and female threaded inserts to minimize board penetrations, allowing for adjustable mounting based on foot size, stance, and binding tension, enabling users to customize the binding's position and angle relative to the board.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple penetrations are made into the board to accommodate adjustable bindings, then adaptability and adjustability are improved, but structural integrity and water resistance deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebinding adjustabilityVSAvoidwater penetration and structural damage
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal binding system where a single set of threaded inserts serves multiple functions: accommodating different foot sizes through adjustable strap positions, supporting various riding styles (regular/goofy stance), and providing multiple mounting configurations. This eliminates the need for multiple separate penetration points while maintaining full adjustability, as the threaded inserts act as multi-functional mounting locations that adapt to different binding configurations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent resolves the contradiction by transitioning from a two-dimensional approach (multiple penetration points across the board surface) to a three-dimensional solution (threaded inserts embedded within the board structure). The inserts protrude upward to receive binding hardware while remaining internally integrated with the board core, allowing adjustability in horizontal positions without requiring additional penetrations that would compromise structural integrity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Ease of operation

If numerous penetrations are created in the board for binding mounting, then ease of installation and adjustability are improved, but manufacturing complexity and structural strength worsen

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebinding installationVSAvoidboard structural strength
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by pre-installing threaded inserts into the board during the board manufacturing process. These inserts are embedded into the board core before the final assembly, creating ready-to-use mounting points that simplify subsequent binding installation. The inserts are positioned and secured in advance, eliminating the need for complex field installations while maintaining board structural integrity through proper integration with the board's core structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Adaptability or versatility

If the binding system is made reconfigurable to accommodate different user preferences, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser customizationVSAvoidbinding system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies segmentation by dividing the binding system into modular components: the board with integrated threaded inserts, removable binding straps, and adjustable mounting hardware. This segmentation allows users to customize different aspects of the binding (strap positions, mounting locations, configuration) while each component remains relatively simple in design. The modular nature enables reconfigurability without requiring complex integrated systems, as users can adjust individual segments independently.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS12162567B2Reconfigurable wakesurf binding apparatus and system
Publication Date: 2024.12.10 KWIK TEK INC
  • US12162567B2 patent drawing
  • US12162567B2 patent drawing
  • US12162567B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A reconfigurable wakesurf binding apparatus and system is provided. In certain embodiments, the wakesurf binding may comprise a top surface of a wakesurf board having a longitudinal axis, a first pair of female threaded inserts in the top surface aligned along a first axis angularly offset from the longitudinal axis of the wakesurf board by a first offset angle, a first strap having a first end comprising a first matrix of holes therethrough, a second end comprising a second matrix of holes therethrough, and a longitudinal axis, wherein the first strap is configured to be removably interconnected with the first pair of female threaded inserts with its longitudinal axis at an angle offset from the first axis, a second pair of female threaded inserts in the top surface aligned along the longitudinal axis of the wakesurf board.