Ski Locking Device with Ratchet Cuffs and Tether
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ski locks do not provide adequate security for snow skis and poles, as they often fail to secure poles and cannot be attached to fixed structures, limiting their effectiveness in preventing theft and accidental mix-ups in ski resorts.
Innovation Solution
A portable ski locking device with adjustable ratchet cuffs and a central locking mechanism that secures skis and poles, featuring a three-point locking system and a secondary tether for attachment to permanent structures, ensuring secure storage and transport.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a simple cable or chain combination lock is used, then the device is portable and easy to use, but it cannot provide adequate security for both skis and poles simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device is divided into separate functional components: a main body housing containing the locking mechanism, and multiple independent ratchet cuffs (first ratchet cuff for skis, second ratchet cuff for poles) that can be deployed as needed. This segmentation allows the device to provide comprehensive security for both skis and poles while maintaining a compact, portable form factor when the cuffs are stowed.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking device is designed with multi-functionality to secure different types of equipment. The first ratchet cuff is configured to lock around skis or snowboards, while the second ratchet cuff is configured to lock around ski poles. This universal design allows a single device to provide adequate security for multiple items simultaneously, resolving the limitation of simple locks that could only secure one type of equipment.
2Reliability
If dedicated ski locks with brackets are used to secure skis in an X configuration, then ski security is improved, but the device cannot secure ski poles and cannot be attached to fixed structures
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device incorporates multiple ratchet cuffs with different configurations to serve multiple functions. The first ratchet cuff can secure skis in a crossed position similar to traditional ski locks, while the second ratchet cuff is specifically designed to secure ski poles. Additionally, the main body housing can be attached to fixed structures, providing versatility that dedicated ski locks lack.
Solution Approach 2:
The ratchet cuffs are designed to be movable and adjustable rather than fixed. The first ratchet cuff can be positioned to lock skis in various configurations, and the second ratchet cuff can be deployed to secure poles. This dynamic design allows the device to adapt to different securing needs, unlike rigid bracket systems that are limited to single-purpose use.
3Ease of operation
If a portable locking device is used, then the device is easy to transport and store, but it may not provide sufficient security for high-value equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The ratchet cuffs are designed to nest within or alongside the main body housing when not in use. The first and second ratchet cuffs can be stowed in a compact configuration within the housing, allowing the entire locking device to maintain a small, portable form factor. When needed, the cuffs can be deployed outward to provide robust security for skis and poles, thus reconciling portability with security strength.
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 device effectively secures both skis and poles with a three-point locking system, allowing for adjustable fit and attachment to fixed structures, enhancing security and convenience for users.
Implementation Method 1
a first ratchet mechanism (130) configured to engage with an indentation (153) on the first ratchet cuff (141), to lock the lockable closure member (111). The first ratchet mechanism (130) may comprise a first tooth (131), comprised of a sprung peg, which is located at the lower part of the housing (103)
Data Source
AI summary
A ski locking device and method for securing a pair of snow skis equipped with snow brakes are provided. The ski locking device comprises a housing having a rear portion, and a lockable closure member connected to the housing. The housing and the lockable closure member are configured such that, when the ski locking device is in a closed position locking a pair of skis, with a slide surface of the first ski facing a slide surface of the second ski, the rear portion of the housing faces a first edge of the first ski and a second edge of the second ski. The lockable closure member encloses the snow brakes at a crossing point of the snow brakes.