Ski Boot Closing Device Force Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sports footwear closing devices, such as those for ski and snowboard boots, concentrate closing force in a limited zone, requiring multiple devices that are costly, heavy, and complex to operate, with actuation being slow and difficult when wearing gloves.
Innovation Solution
A closing device with a pivoted actuation member, connection cable, and adjustment mechanism that distributes force over a wide area using two return elements and a C-shaped actuation member with a handgrip for easy operation, and an adjustment mechanism with a toothed strip or screw for customizable closure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stress or pressure
If multiple closing devices are used to distribute closing force, then the closing force distribution is improved, but the device complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The closing device is segmented into multiple independent hooks forming a rack, with each hook capable of independently engaging the actuation lever. This segmentation allows the closing force to be distributed across multiple attachment points along the boot aperture, improving force distribution while maintaining a single integrated closing mechanism rather than requiring multiple separate closing devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuation lever serves multiple functions: it acts as a lever arm for mechanical advantage, a selection mechanism for choosing different closing forces via different hook engagements, and a single-point actuation interface for the user. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for multiple separate closing devices while achieving comprehensive force distribution.
2Stress or pressure
If multiple closing devices are used to distribute closing force, then the closing force distribution is improved, but the weight and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple hooks that would traditionally require separate closing mechanisms are merged into a single integrated rack structure attached to the boot casing. The actuation lever serves as a common actuator for all hooks, combining what would otherwise be multiple separate closing devices into one lightweight, integrated system.
Solution Approach 2:
The use of a flexible connection cable instead of rigid mechanical linkages reduces the overall weight of the closing device. The cable allows for flexible force transmission from the actuation lever to the closing elements, eliminating the need for heavy rigid connectors while maintaining effective force distribution.
3Device complexity
If a single closing device is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the closing force is concentrated in a limited zone
Solution Approach 1:
The single closing device incorporates a segmented rack with multiple hooks spaced at different positions along the boot aperture. This segmentation allows the closing force to be distributed across multiple zones of the boot while maintaining a single integrated actuation mechanism, resolving the contradiction between simplicity and force distribution.
Solution Approach 2:
The closing force distribution is extended from a single-point application to a distributed application along the length of the boot aperture by arranging hooks in a linear dimension. This dimensional extension allows a single actuator to control force distribution across multiple spatial locations.
4Measurement precision
If the actuation lever is made complex to provide precise control, then the closing force adjustment precision is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The actuation lever incorporates a dynamic selection mechanism where the user can selectively engage different hooks along the rack based on desired closing force. This dynamic adaptability allows precise control of closing force intensity without requiring a complex fixed mechanism, as the user can choose the appropriate engagement point for each situation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides self-service adjustment where the user directly selects the desired closing force by choosing which hook to engage, without requiring complex external control mechanisms. The mechanical design allows the user's own action of selecting and engaging a specific hook to automatically provide the appropriate closing force precision.
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 solution allows for uniform force distribution over a wide area with a single actuation member, enabling easy adjustment of closure intensity and comfortable operation even with gloves, while reducing the number of devices needed, resulting in a simpler, lighter, and more economical design.
Implementation Method 1
cooperating with at least a connection cable attached to the closing element
Implementation Method 2
an actuation member pivoted to the main structure
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5
Figure 6~7
AI summary
A closing device for a sports footwear such as a ski boot (11), snowboard boot or suchlike, which has a main structure (12) which defines an inner compartment suitable to contain the user's foot and is provided with an aperture (18) and a closing element (20, 22) which is suitable to selectively close said aperture (18) and to selectively clamp the foot inside said compartment, comprises an actuation member (24) pivoted on said main structure (12) on one side of said aperture (18) and cooperating with at least a connection cable (26) attached to said closing element (20, 22) or to another side of said aperture (18). The closing device according to the present invention also comprises at least two return elements (28), and an adjustment mechanism (30) suitable to adjust the traction of said connection cable (26).