Self-locking Ski Binding with Automatic Tensioning Link
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ski bindings for touring, Telemark, and cross-country skis require manual locking and release, making them cumbersome and unsafe, especially in snowy conditions, with a high risk of injury due to difficulty in ejecting skis during a fall and limited versatility.
Innovation Solution
A ski binding system featuring a front retaining element and a rear retaining element that pivot, with a tensioning link and retraction stop, allowing for automatic locking and easy detachment, enabling secure boot attachment without manual intervention and facilitating safe ski release in case of a fall.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual locking mechanism is used, then boot can be securely attached to ski, but operation becomes cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The binding system automatically locks the boot to the ski when the boot is inserted. The tensioning element and rear retaining element work together to secure the boot without requiring manual intervention, making the system self-servicing for the attachment function.
Solution Approach 2:
The binding system is pre-configured with the tensioning element and retaining elements in position before the boot is inserted. When the boot enters the binding, the locking action occurs automatically through the pre-positioned mechanical elements, eliminating the need for subsequent manual locking steps.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual release mechanism is used, then ski can be detached from boot, but operation becomes difficult especially in snowy conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The binding system automatically releases the ski from the boot when the boot is lifted or removed. The tensioning element and retaining elements work together to facilitate automatic detachment without requiring manual manipulation, making the system self-servicing for the release function.
3Reliability
If fixed front clamp and cable tension system are used, then boot can be held securely, but ejection during fall becomes impossible increasing injury risk
Solution Approach 1:
The binding system incorporates dynamic elements that allow automatic release under certain conditions. The tensioning element and rear retaining element are designed to disengage when subjected to specific forces or movements, enabling the boot to be ejected automatically during a fall to reduce injury risk.
4Reliability
If traditional binding structure is used, then boot can be attached to ski, but fitting operation becomes tricky requiring knee on ground
Solution Approach 1:
The binding system automatically performs the attachment function when the boot is inserted. The front retaining element and rear retaining element work together to secure the boot without requiring the user to perform manual locking actions, eliminating the need for kneeling or complex fitting maneuvers.
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 binding system provides automatic locking and easy ski detachment, enhancing safety and versatility while maintaining a lightweight design, allowing for seamless transitions between skiing modes without removing skis.
Implementation Method 1
a tensioning element that acts between the rear retaining element and the ski and/or the front retaining element, able to tension the boot on the binding and to enable the heel to be freely lifted
Data Source
AI summary
A binding for a touring ski, a Telemark ski or a cross-country ski having “step in” automatic locking. The binding includes a front retaining element to cooperate with the front sole of a boot, a rear retaining element to cooperate with the rear part of the front sole and/or the rear sole of the boot, a tensioning element to tension the boot on the binding and to enable the heel to be freely lifted, a tensioning link placed under and connected to a rear retaining stirrup, and a fixed or retraction stop to cooperate with the tensioning link so as to enable the rear retaining stirrup to move back, tensioning the tensioning element, when the heel of the boot exerts a downwardly directed pressure on the rear retaining boot situated in an idle position.