Universal Ski Shoe Harness for Cross-Country Binding Compatibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Cross-country skis with built-in binding systems are not compatible with each other, making it difficult to share ski gear among friends and family, and users cannot easily ski with non-ski shoes or boots due to the lack of universal binding systems, particularly with cable binding systems which are not commonly available and limited in compatibility.
Innovation Solution
A ski shoe harness with a sole, receiver, and heel strap that includes a binding mechanism adaptable to various ski binding systems (NNN, SNS, etc.) and tightening elements like laces or straps, allowing non-ski shoes or boots of varying sizes to be used with cross-country skis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If cable binding systems are used to allow non-ski shoes or boots, then compatibility with non-ski footwear is improved, but device complexity increases and reliability decreases compared to common binding systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a cable binding system as an intermediary mechanism that bridges the incompatibility between traditional ski bindings and non-ski footwear. The cable binding system with releaseable catches acts as a mediator that can securely attach to various types of footwear (ski boots, hiking boots, snow boots) while maintaining connection to the ski, thus enabling universal compatibility without requiring users to invest in specialized equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable binding system is designed to perform multiple functions: it can securely bind traditional ski boots, accommodate non-ski footwear like hiking boots and snow boots, and provide adjustable tension for different footwear types. This multi-functional design allows a single binding system to serve diverse footwear types, eliminating the need for multiple specialized binding systems.
2Adaptability or versatility
If cable binding systems are used to enable universal footwear compatibility, then adaptability is improved, but ease of operation worsens due to lack of common availability and user familiarity
Solution Approach 1:
The cable binding system is divided into separable components: the cable itself, the releaseable catches, and the attachment points. This segmentation allows the system to be easily assembled, disassembled, and transferred between different skis and footwear types. The modular design makes it simple for users to operate and understand, as each component has a clear function and can be independently adjusted or replaced.
3Reliability
If traditional binding systems are used, then reliability and skiing experience are improved, but adaptability worsens as they cannot accommodate non-ski shoes or boots
Solution Approach 1:
The cable binding system incorporates dynamic adjustment capabilities through tensioning mechanisms and releaseable catches that can be easily adjusted or released. This dynamic design allows the binding system to adapt to different footwear types and conditions, providing the reliability of a secure connection while maintaining the flexibility to accommodate various footwear options, unlike rigid traditional binding systems.
Data Source
AI summary
A ski shoe harness includes a sole, a receiver, and a heel strap. The sole includes a binding mechanism adapted to engage a binding system of a ski. The sole and the receiver are attached and define a space to receive the front portion of a shoe. The heel strap, attached to the receiver, wraps around the rear portion of the shoe, interlocking the ski shoe harness with the shoe. Further, the heel strap includes an adjustment mechanism. Using the ski shoe harness of the present invention, non-ski shoes and boots of a various designs and sizes may be used to share and utilize skis having common cross-country binding systems.