Ski Pole Strap Buckle Locking Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing ski pole hand strap connection systems require the use of external tools for easy connection and disconnection, which can be inconvenient and may lead to wrist injuries during crashes or when replacing damaged straps.

Innovation Solution

A buckle and locking device system where the buckle is connected to the hand strap and the locking device is on the pole handle, allowing for easy locking and releasing without tools, using a puller mechanism and optional magnets for quick coupling and decoupling.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a releasable strap system is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of connection and disconnectionVSAvoidcomplexity of locking mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connection system is divided into separate functional components: a buckle attached to the strap, a locking device on the handle, and a puller for release. This segmentation allows each component to be simple in design while collectively providing sophisticated functionality. The buckle is a simple U-shaped element, the locking device is a stationary receptacle, and the puller is a small tab - none of which are complex individually.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The release function is extracted and isolated to a separate puller component that is visually and functionally distinct from the locking mechanism. This allows the locking device itself to remain simple while providing tool-free release capability through the dedicated puller element that用户可以 easily identify and operate.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

2Reliability

If traditional fixed handles are used, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability deteriorates due to wrist injuries from crashes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser safetyVSAvoidcomplexity of connection system
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system is designed with a puller that enables preliminary release action before a crash occurs. Users can proactively detach the strap from the handle by pulling the tab, preventing wrist injuries that would occur with fixed handles during falls. This preliminary release capability transforms the system from potentially harmful to protective.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The connection system provides self-service safety features where the puller tab automatically becomes visible and accessible when attached, enabling users to quickly release the strap without tools or complex operations. The design makes the release function as easy as pulling a tab, comparable to opening a parachute or releasing a seatbelt.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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

Enables secure and tool-free attachment and detachment of the hand strap, enhancing user safety by preventing accidental loss and facilitating easy replacement of straps, while maintaining grip stability during use.

Implementation Method 1

the locking device is adapted to receive the buckle for locking the buckle and connecting the hand strap to the handle of the pole

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical engagement: Mechanical Force

Implementation Method 2

a puller attached to the buckle for releasing the buckle from the locking device

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical force application: Mechanical Force

Data Source

PatentEP4247505B1Connection system for a ski pole
Publication Date: 2025.01.01 BRAV AS
  • EP4247505B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4247505B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4247505B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A ski or walking pole connection system for releasably connecting a hand strap to a handle of the pole, wherein the system comprises a buckle connected to the hand strap, and a locking device connected to the handle, wherein the locking device is adapted to receive the buckle for locking the buckle and connecting the hand strap to the handle of the pole. A recess of the locking device is arranged to receive a locking head of the buckle and wherein the buckle is locked by a first edge of the locking device abutting a second edge of the buckle. A puller connected to the buckle is configured to lift the second edge such that the buckle may be released from the locking device.