Ergonomic Ski Binding Adjustment Device with Movable Engagement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional methods for adjusting ski bindings are physically demanding, non-ergonomic, and time-consuming, especially in facilities that need to fit multiple bindings, as they require trial and error with different boot sizes, and existing devices are cumbersome and limited in size range.
Innovation Solution
A device with an elongated base and movable binding engagement portions, a handle for ergonomic operation, and a locking mechanism that allows quick adjustment of the base length, featuring a spring-biased bar engagement element for easy operation and increased stability, facilitating the adjustment and handling of ski bindings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional trial-and-error method with ski boots is used for adjusting bindings, then the binding can be tested for proper fit, but the process becomes physically demanding, time-consuming, and non-ergonomic
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a device that replicates the dimensions and shape of a ski boot without using an actual boot. The device includes a base portion with binding engagement portions that copy the essential geometric features of a boot, allowing the binding to be adjusted using a simplified representation rather than the full boot, thereby saving time while maintaining fit accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The adjusting device is divided into multiple adjustable segments including a base portion, binding engagement portions, and positioning elements that can be independently adjusted. This segmentation allows for precise replication of boot dimensions without the complexity of handling an actual boot, enabling quick and accurate binding adjustment
2Adaptability or versatility
If a device with movable binding engagement portions is used to adjust base length, then the device can cover a wider range of sizes, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates movable binding engagement portions that can be positioned at different locations along the base portion. These movable elements allow the device to adapt to different boot sizes by changing the effective length of the base portion, providing versatility without requiring multiple complete devices for different size ranges
Solution Approach 2:
The device includes pre-positioned markings and guide features that indicate correct positioning for different boot sizes. This preliminary preparation of positioning information allows the operator to quickly set the appropriate length without complex calculations or adjustments, reducing the perceived complexity while maintaining adaptability
3Ease of operation
If a locking mechanism with operation element is added to the handle, then the ease of operation improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed to be operated directly from the handle in a single motion. The operation element on the handle simultaneously locks or unlocks the binding engagement portions while the handle is being used to position the device, eliminating the need for separate locking actions and simplifying the overall operation despite the added mechanism
Data Source
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AI summary
A device for adjusting a ski binding, wherein the device (1) has an elongated base portion (2), first and second binding engagement portions (3, 4) forming respective opposite first and second end portions of the base portion, and corresponding to toe and heel parts of a ski boot when engaging with the ski binding. The first and second binding engagement portions comprise a movable binding engagement portion (3), which is movable relative to an intermediate portion (7) of the base portion, and longitudinally of the base portion, to adjust the total length of the base portion. Furthermore, the device has a handle (5) connected with the base portion, and a locking mechanism (6), which is operable between a locked state where the locking mechanism locks the longitudinal movement of the movable binding engagement portion, and an unlocked state where the locking mechanism admits the longitudinal movement of the movable binding engagement portion. The locking mechanism has an operation element (11) for operating the locking mechanism between the locked and unlocked states, wherein the operation element is arranged at the handle.