Ski Boot Spoiler Locking Mechanism for Touring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ski boots suffer from poor locking mechanisms that allow unwanted movement of the spoiler relative to the shell during skiing, leading to reduced comfort and performance due to indirect and unreliable locking of the cuff to the shell.
Innovation Solution
A locking device with first and second engaging elements between the shell and cuff, and third and fourth engaging elements between the cuff and spoiler, which are switched by a driving element to lock the cuff and spoiler relative to the shell, providing direct and reliable locking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the spoiler is articulated to the shell to allow movement during walking, then comfort during uphill walking is improved, but unwanted movement of the spoiler relative to the shell occurs during skiing, reducing performance and comfort
Solution Approach 1:
The spoiler is designed with an articulated connection to the shell, allowing it to move dynamically between a first position (for walking comfort) and a second position (for skiing stability). The driving member enables the spoiler to adapt its position based on the operational mode, resolving the contradiction between mobility and stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is segmented into multiple locking positions (first locking position for walking, second locking position for skiing) that can be selectively engaged. This segmentation allows the system to provide different levels of spoiler mobility depending on the required function.
2Reliability
If a locking device is provided to prevent unwanted movement of the spoiler during skiing, then stability during skiing is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The driving member serves multiple functions: it positions the spoiler in different configurations (first and second positions) and simultaneously engages/disengages the locking elements. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate mechanisms, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity while achieving reliable locking.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking elements are integrated with the spoiler and shell structures, and the driving member combines positioning and locking functions into a single mechanism. This merging approach achieves reliable spoiler stabilization without proportionally increasing overall device complexity.
3Strength
If the cuff is locked relative to the shell for skiing performance, then rigidity and performance during skiing are improved, but the ability to rotate the cuff for comfortable walking is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The cuff connection to the shell is designed as an articulated joint that can dynamically switch between a locked state (for skiing rigidity) and an unlocked state (for walking rotation). The driving member controls this transition, allowing the system to adapt its mechanical properties based on operational requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The spoiler is designed with an articulated connection to the shell, allowing it to move dynamically between a first position (for walking comfort) and a second position (for skiing stability). The driving member enables the spoiler to adapt its position based on the operational mode, resolving the contradiction between mobility and stability.
Data Source
AI summary
A ski boot is provided of the type including a substantially soft inner liner, a substantially rigid outer shell and a cuff articulated to the shell, and further including a spoiler articulated to the shell and arranged between the inner liner and the cuff. The ski boot includes a locking device for selectively allowing or preventing rotation of the cuff relative to the shell and, at the same time, for selectively allowing or preventing the movements of the spoiler relative to the cuff, and consequently also relative to the shell.