Saddle Tree Locking Headplate for On-Horse Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing saddle tree adjustment mechanisms are unreliable due to jamming issues from dirt contact and require dismounting for adjustments, making it impossible to adjust while the saddle is on the horse.
Innovation Solution
A locking headplate with rotating and translating arms, featuring serrated blocking surfaces and a screw mechanism, allows for secure adjustment of the saddle tree configuration while the rider is on the saddle, ensuring reliability and ease of use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If complex adjustment mechanisms with gears and moving parts are used, then the saddle tree can be adjusted to different configurations, but the reliability decreases due to jamming from dirt contact
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment mechanism is divided into two independent arms that can be adjusted separately, each with its own blocking surface. This segmentation eliminates complex gear systems while maintaining full adjustability of the saddle tree configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent removes all complex moving parts, gears, and intermediate mechanisms from the adjustment system. Only the essential components (arms, blocking surfaces, and direct translation means) are retained, eliminating sources of jamming while preserving adjustment functionality.
2Device complexity
If adjustment mechanisms are designed for operation with the saddle tree mounted upside down, then the structure can be simplified, but the ease of operation deteriorates because adjustments cannot be made with the saddle on the horse
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of requiring the saddle tree to be inverted for adjustment, the patent inverts the approach by providing direct access to the translation means from the front of the saddle. This allows adjustments to be made in the natural riding position without complicating the overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The rider can perform the adjustment themselves while seated on the saddle, without requiring assistance or special positioning. The translation means are designed to be directly accessible and operable from the front, enabling self-service adjustment in the field.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple gears and moving parts are included in the adjustment mechanism, then the adjustment range can be increased, but the device complexity increases and reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs two independently adjustable arms that can be positioned dynamically to achieve various saddle tree configurations. This dynamic adjustment approach provides a wide range of motion without requiring multiple gears or complex mechanical linkages.
Solution Approach 2:
The blocking surfaces are designed with complementary shapes that work together as an integrated system. This composite design of the blocking surfaces and arms provides multiple positioning options while maintaining a simple overall structure without additional moving parts.
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
The locking headplate provides a reliable and user-friendly method for adjusting the saddle tree configuration on the horse, ensuring optimal fit and comfort by allowing adjustments to be made while seated, reducing the risk of jamming and improving the balance and fit of the saddle.
Implementation Method 1
arm translation means 20 operable to translate one arm 10 with respect to the other arm 10′ along the axis of rotation X so as to cause the engagement and disengagement of the facing blocking surfaces 122, 142
Implementation Method 2
two headplate arms 10, 10′ have mutual connection end portions 12, 14 which form a headplate hinge 16 for a rotation of one headplate arm with respect to the other about an axis of rotation X
Implementation Method 3
facing blocking surfaces 122, 142 shaped in a complementary manner so as to block, when placed in mutual contact, the rotation of the headplate arms 10, 10′
Data Source
AI summary
A locking headplate of the configuration of the saddle tree of a riding saddle comprises two rigid headplate arms, each suitable for being fixed to a respective lateral front portion of the saddle tree. The two headplate arms have mutual connection end portions which form a headplate hinge for a rotation of one headplate arm with respect to the other about an axis of rotation. The end portions are further fitted with facing blocking surfaces shaped in a complementary manner so as to block, when placed in mutual contact, the rotation of the headplate arms. The headplate is further provided with arm translation means operable to translate one arm with respect to the other along the axis of rotation so as to cause the engagement and disengagement of said blocking surfaces, said arm translation means being accessible through a front access opening coaxial to the axis of rotation.