Ski Binding Locking Mechanism for Snow-Resistant Longitudinal Fixing

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing ski binding locking mechanisms are prone to failure due to snow packing, difficulty of use, breakage, and complexity, leading to high costs and ineffective securing of the binding to the mounting plate.

Innovation Solution

A locking device with a force-transmitting element that secures the ski binding to the mounting plate by transferring downward force into opposing horizontal forces, ensuring the binding remains locked in the longitudinal direction.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If complex locking mechanisms with multiple elements are used, then the binding can be secured to the mounting plate, but the device complexity increases and manufacturing costs rise

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelocking reliabilityVSAvoidlocking mechanism complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The locking mechanism is divided into two independent locking elements that can be separately engaged with corresponding elements on the mounting plate. This segmentation allows each element to perform a specific locking function while maintaining overall system simplicity and reducing manufacturing complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The locking device combines multiple locking functions into a single integrated structure that engages with the mounting plate through two locking elements. This merging approach consolidates the locking mechanism, reducing the number of separate components needed and simplifying the overall device while maintaining reliable locking.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Reliability

If traditional locking mechanisms are used, then the binding can be attached to the mounting plate, but they are prone to failure due to snow packing and breakage

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelocking reliabilityVSAvoidsnow packing and breakage

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The locking elements are designed with features that prevent snow from entering and packing in the locking mechanism. The structure includes snow-free zones and design elements that actively counteract snow accumulation before it can interfere with the locking function, thereby preventing failure due to snow packing.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #9Preliminary anti-action

Solution Approach 2:

The locking mechanism incorporates design features that cushion against forces that could cause breakage. The structure is designed to distribute and absorb impact forces, providing beforehand protection against the harmful effects of excessive loads and preventing catastrophic failure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

3Reliability

If existing locking mechanisms are used, then the binding can be secured, but they are difficult to use and require tools for adjustment

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelocking reliabilityVSAvoidadjustment ease

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The locking mechanism is designed to be self-operating, allowing the binding to be locked and adjusted without requiring external tools. The user can directly manipulate the locking elements to secure the binding to the mounting plate, making the system self-sufficient and easy to operate.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The locking mechanism incorporates movable and adjustable elements that allow for dynamic operation. The binding can be easily adjusted along the mounting plate and locked into position through simple user actions, providing both ease of operation and reliable securing without requiring tools.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

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 device effectively prevents the ski binding from sliding or jumping on the mounting plate, is simple to use and manufacture, and reduces production costs.

Implementation Method 1

the force-transmitting element is arrangeable to transfer at least part of a force directed from below towards the first locking element of the locking device to opposing horizontal forces that press the force-transmitting element's ends into engagement with the respective attachments of the ski binding

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectForce transmission: Force

Data Source

PatentEP3880322B1Locking device for locking ski binding to mounting plate

Publication Date: 2025.11.12 ROTTEFELLA AS

Figure 1~2b
Figure 3a~3b
Figure 4a~4b

AI summary

A locking device (10) for locking a ski binding (1) on a mounting plate (20), arranged to be mounted on a ski, in which the locking device (10) is arranged to be in a locked position, in which the ski binding (1) is locked relative to the mounting plate (20) in a longitudinal direction, and in an open position, in which the ski binding (1) can be moved relative to the mounting plate (20) in the longitudinal direction, wherein corresponding locking elements (11, 21) of the locking device (10) and of the mounting plate (20) engage with each other in the locked position. The locking device (10) comprises a force-transmitting element (12) with opposite ends (12a, 12b), arranged to be attached in corresponding attachments (la, lb) in the ski binding (1), when the locking device (10) is in locked position. The locking element (11) is located between the force-transmitting element's (12) opposite ends (12a, 12b).