Ski Binding Release Mechanism With Synchronized Pin Compression
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ski binding release mechanisms require manual finger coordination and strength, which can be challenging in adverse conditions such as deep snow or for users with mobility or strength impairments.
Innovation Solution
A binding system with a U-shaped bracket and synchronized bails and claws that allow release via a rocker arm or manipulator, enabling operation without needing manual finger compression, using a pole or other means.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual finger compression of buttons is used for release, then the release mechanism can be operated with simple structure, but it requires good mobility and strength in hands and fingers which is not available under all conditions
Solution Approach 1:
A pole-operated release mechanism serves as an intermediary between the user and the binding system. The pole transmits force from the user's hand (operated from standing position) to the release mechanism, enabling boot release without requiring direct finger compression of buttons. This mediator allows users to operate the binding in adverse conditions where finger dexterity is compromised.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual finger compression mechanism is replaced with a pole-operated mechanical system. Instead of using finger strength to compress buttons, the user leverages the pole as a mechanical advantage tool to actuate the release mechanism from a standing position, substituting fine motor finger actions with gross motor arm and body movements.
2Ease of operation
If buttons are compressed by fingers for release, then the system can be operated in standing position potentially, but sufficient coordination and force in fingers is still required which may not be available
Solution Approach 1:
The pole acts as an intermediary that transfers the user's operational force from the hand to the release mechanism, bypassing the need for direct finger compression. This eliminates the harmful impact of cold and exhaustion on finger dexterity and strength, allowing reliable operation even when fingers are compromised.
3Reliability
If synchronized pin compression is implemented for secure release, then reliable detachment is achieved, but complex mechanism with bails and claws is required
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functional elements (bails, claws, pins) are merged into an integrated release mechanism actuated by a single pole operation. The bails and claws work together as a unified system to compress both pins simultaneously, achieving reliable synchronized release through a single operational input rather than separate controls for each component.
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
Facilitates easy and reliable release of ski boots in various conditions, ensuring both pins are compressed synchronously for secure detachment, accommodating users with limited dexterity or strength.
Implementation Method 1
The moveable pins are arranged transversely on or in the ski boot and are biased by an intermediate spring that presses out the pins with a certain predetermined force.
Implementation Method 2
When the rocker arm 9 is pressed down, as shown in 3a and b, the bails 7 are rotated about the longitudinal segments 10, causing the claws 8 to rotate synchronously towards each other.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a release mechanism for a ski binding system, wherein the system comprises a ski shoe wherein pins moveable in each direction are arranged and at least one intermediate spring element, wherein the pins are adapted to slide in a barrel between a protruding and a retracted position, The system comprises a frame with two vertical parts arranged on a ski, wherein each vertical part has an opening each for receiving a pin protruding sideways out of the ski shoe, two bails with claws at one end and brought together in a manipulator at the other end, wherein the claws and the manipulator are adapted so that they can move synchronously into the openings in the opposite direction of the pins.