Ski Binding Boot Positioning for Ascent and Descent
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ski bindings do not provide adequate safety and comfort for users during both descent and ascent, as they lack a mechanism to efficiently transition between positions for downhill skiing and uphill walking, leading to suboptimal boot positioning and increased effort.
Innovation Solution
A ski binding with a front clamp assembly and rear jaws, featuring two holding devices that allow the ski boot to pivot for climbing and securely attach for descent, along with a brake system that includes a pedal and functional element for height compensation and secure engagement, enabling seamless transitions between configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the ski binding uses a single fixed position for the ski boot, then the structure is simple, but the user cannot efficiently transition between descent and ascent configurations, leading to increased effort and suboptimal boot positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The toe piece is divided into two separate retaining devices: a first retaining device with engagement elements that allow pivoting for ascent, and a second retaining device that contacts the front end of the sole for descent. This segmentation allows each device to be optimized for its specific function while working together to provide both ascent and descent capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The first retaining device is designed to be movable, allowing the engagement elements to pivot relative to each other about a pivot axis. This dynamic capability enables the ski boot to be pivoted forward during ascent while maintaining secure connection to the ski, transitioning from a static to a dynamic retention system.
2Reliability
If the ski boot is positioned further back on the ski for descent, then downhill safety is improved, but the boot position is suboptimal for uphill walking
Solution Approach 1:
The ski binding system allows dynamic repositioning of the ski boot along the longitudinal axis of the ski. During descent, the boot is held in a rearward position by the second retaining device for optimal safety and control. During ascent, the first retaining device enables the boot to pivot forward to a more forward position, optimizing walking efficiency while maintaining secure attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The dual retaining device system provides universal functionality for both descent and ascent operations. The first retaining device with its pivotable engagement elements handles ascent movements, while the second retaining device secures the boot for descent, making the same binding system adaptable to multiple skiing modes without requiring separate equipment.
3Ease of operation
If the ski binding allows free movement of the ski boot for ascent, then comfort during uphill walking is improved, but secure attachment for downhill skiing is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The retention system is segmented into two functional parts: the first retaining device that provides pivotable, comfortable movement for ascent through its movable engagement elements, and the second retaining device that provides firm, secure attachment for descent by contacting the front end of the sole. Each segment handles the requirements of its specific phase.
Solution Approach 2:
The same ski binding system universally serves both ascent and descent functions. The first retaining device's pivotable mechanism provides comfort during uphill walking, while the second retaining device ensures secure attachment during downhill skiing, making the system reliably adaptable to both operational modes.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a ski binding with a toe piece for holding the front end of a ski boot sole and a heel piece for holding the rear end of the ski boot sole. In a first configuration of the ski binding for downhill skiing, the ski boot assumes a first position in which the heel piece connects the ski boot to the ski. In a second configuration for uphill skiing, the ski boot assumes a second position in which the ski boot is movable relative to the heel piece. In the first position, the ski boot is positioned further back on the ski (viewed along the ski's longitudinal axis) than in the second position, and the underside of the ski boot sole has a smaller perpendicular distance to a ski surface facing the ski boot sole in the first position than in the second position.