Ski Boot Connecting Ring Articulation Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Ski boots require a balance between rigidity for force transmission and flexibility for ease of use and comfort, with existing articulations often compromising on either performance or mobility.
Innovation Solution
A connecting ring with a blocking surface and a large rotation surface is used to securely connect the collar and shell, allowing efficient force transmission and adjustable inclination, enhancing both performance and comfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a pivot point articulation is used between the cuff and lower shell, then the boot allows flexion and opening for ease of use, but the force transmission efficiency is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
A connecting ring is introduced as an intermediary element between the cuff and lower shell. This ring features a locking surface that engages with a corresponding surface in the lower shell, creating a stable force transmission interface while allowing controlled rotation for articulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution moves from a simple pivot point to a multi-surface engagement system. The locking surface provides stability in one dimension (force transmission) while the rotational surface enables movement in another dimension (articulation), effectively resolving the contradiction through dimensional separation of functions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a pivot point articulation is used between the cuff and lower shell, then the boot allows adjustable inclination for comfort, but the structural stability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The articulation system is segmented into distinct functional surfaces: a locking surface for stability and a rotational surface for adjustment. This segmentation allows each surface to optimize its specific function without compromising the other, maintaining structural stability while enabling adjustable inclination.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a fixed rigid connection to a dynamic articulated connection. The connecting ring can rotate on the rotational surface to adjust inclination dynamically, while the locking surface maintains structural stability during use, providing both adaptability and stability as needed.
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
Rigid shell ski boot comprising a lower shell (30) and a cuff (20) rotationally articulated on the lower shell (30), characterized in that it comprises at least one connecting ring (10) linking the cuff (20) to the lower shell (30), this connecting ring (10) comprising a locking surface (11) cooperating with an opening (31) of the lower shell (30) so as to prevent the rotation of the connecting ring (10) relative to the lower shell (30), and a rotation surface (12) cooperating with an opening (24) of the cuff so as to guide the rotation of the cuff (20) relative to the lower shell (30) around this second surface.