Ski Binding Twist Grip Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Cross-country or touring ski bindings with a rotary handle that pivots sideways for opening and closing are prone to unintentional opening due to the risk of the handle being twisted, which is not adequately secured by traditional latching connections.
Innovation Solution
A locking element that transitions between a locking and release position, providing a form-fitting connection to secure the twist grip non-rotatably in the locking position, preventing unintentional twisting by engaging with the binding base body, and requiring separate actuation to release for pivoting movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a rotary handle with perpendicular axis is used for opening/closing the binding, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability deteriorates due to increased risk of unintentional opening
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by introducing a locking element that proactively prevents unintentional opening before it can occur. The locking element engages with a latching projection on the rotary handle and a corresponding recess in the binding base body, creating a mechanical interlock that counteracts any forces that might cause accidental release. This preventive mechanism allows the rotary handle to operate easily while eliminating the reliability concern of unintentional opening.
2Reliability
If a latching connection is provided to secure the rotary handle in closed position, then the reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the locking function into distinct, simple components: a locking element with a projection, a latching projection on the rotary handle, and a recess in the binding base body. Each component has a single, clear function, and they work together through simple geometric engagement rather than complex mechanical systems. This segmented approach achieves reliable locking while keeping the overall device complexity low.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element serves as an intermediary component that mediates between the rotary handle and the binding base body. It provides the latching function by engaging its projection with the latching projection on the rotary handle and the recess in the base body, creating a simple yet effective connection that enhances reliability without requiring complex direct engagement mechanisms between the handle and base body.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3a~4a
Figure 3b~5
AI summary
The invention relates to a cross-country or ski touring binding (1) for connecting a boot (2) to a ski (3) in an articulated manner, comprising a binding base body (4) which comprises a standing surface (5a) for a sole (6) of the boot (2) and a ski contact surface (5b) for at least indirectly contacting the ski (3), a holding device (7) having a receiving element (8) for the pivotable arrangement of the boot (2) about a pivoting axis (8a) extending in the transverse direction of the binding base body (4), and a holding element (9) for holding the boot (3) on the receiving element (8), the holding element (9) being mounted on the binding base body (4) such that it moves between a closed position holding the boot (2) on the receiving element (8) and an open position releasing the boot (3), further comprising an actuating element (13) having a rotating handle (14) for transferring the holding element (9) from the closed position to the open position, the axis of rotation (15) thereof extending essentially perpendicular to the standing surface (5a) of the binding base body (4), wherein a locking element is provided, which can be transferred between a locking position and a release position, wherein, in the locking position, the rotating handle (14) is held so that it cannot rotate relative to the binding base body (4) and, in the release position, the rotating handle (14) is released for a pivotable movement about its axis of rotation (15).