Ski Boot Connecting Device Eccentric Ring Rotation Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ski boot adjustment mechanisms for positioning the axis of rotation between the lower shell and cuff are cumbersome, offer limited adjustment options, and risk component loss or incorrect reassembly, compromising comfort and performance.
Innovation Solution
A ski boot design featuring a connecting device with a locking element that moves between two positions to allow precise adjustment of the axis of rotation, using a connecting ring with eccentric surfaces and reliefs to facilitate rotation and retention, and a retaining element to secure the locking element in place, enabling easier and more precise adjustment without losing centring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a connecting ring with blocking surface and rotation surface is used to adjust the axis of rotation, then the position of the axis of rotation can be adjusted, but the adjustment operation becomes burdensome and components may be lost or incorrectly reassembled
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting device is divided into separate functional elements: a connecting ring with eccentric rotation surfaces for axis positioning, and a locking element with reliefs for securing the position. This segmentation allows the adjustment function to be separated from the locking function, enabling simple rotation-based adjustment without complex disassembly operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element is pre-configured with reliefs that align with corresponding reliefs on the connecting ring at specific angular positions. This preliminary arrangement of locking positions allows the operator to simply rotate the connecting ring to the desired axis position, and the locking element automatically engages at the correct orientation, eliminating the need for complex alignment procedures.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the connecting ring is removed and pivoted for adjustment, then the axis of rotation position can be changed, but the centring of the cuff on the lower shell may be lost
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting ring acts as an intermediary element between the cuff and lower shell, providing a controlled mechanism for axis adjustment. The eccentric rotation surfaces allow the ring to pivot relative to both the cuff and lower shell in a controlled manner, maintaining proper centring while enabling axis position changes. The locking element further mediates this relationship by securing the ring at precise angular positions.
3Reliability
If a locking element with reliefs is used to prevent rotation, then the connecting ring can be secured, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element and connecting ring feature asymmetric relief patterns that only align at specific angular positions. This asymmetric design provides reliable position securing through geometric interlocking, while the simplicity of the relief shapes (basic geometric forms rather than complex mechanisms) keeps the overall device complexity low. The eccentric rotation surfaces also leverage asymmetric geometry to achieve the desired functional complexity with simple forms.
Data Source
AI summary
Connecting device between a lower shell and a cuff of a ski boot, the ski boot comprising a lower shell, a cuff and a connecting device between the lower shell and the cuff, the connecting device comprising: a connecting ring configured to guide the cuff in rotation relative to the lower shell, a locking element that is movable between a first position and a second position, the locking element being able to prevent the connecting ring from rotating relative to the locking element when it is in its first position, a retaining element configured to retain the locking element in its first position.