Ski Support Plate Height Adjustment via Cardan Screw
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing support plates for ski bindings face challenges such as limited adjustability, inaccuracy due to play in the adjustment mechanism, and inadequate resistance to deformation during strong edge grips.
Innovation Solution
A height-adjustable support plate with an adjustment mechanism featuring an adjustment screw body and head connected by a cardan joint, allowing for independent adjustment of the support plate height relative to the base, and a slider mechanism that enables vertical adjustment of the skate while resisting deformation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a cam surface and ramp mechanism are used for support plate height adjustment, then the support plate height can be adjusted, but play is generated in the mechanism resulting in inaccuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the cam surface and ramp mechanical system with a threaded adjustment screw mechanism. The screw thread converts rotational motion into precise linear displacement, eliminating the play and slippage inherent in cam-ramp interfaces. This mechanical substitution provides accurate, repeatable positioning of the support plate at multiple height levels.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the adjustment parameter from angular rotation of a cam to threaded engagement of a screw. The threaded connection transforms the adjustment mechanism into a system where small angular rotations of the screw produce precise linear movements, enabling fine-tuned height adjustment without the play characteristic of cam-based systems.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the adjustment mechanism is integrated with the front toe piece, then the support plate can be adjusted, but the toe piece frame must provide a lower passage which complicates the structure
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the adjustment mechanism from the front toe piece structure and relocates it to the support plate itself. The adjustment screw is mounted on the support plate frame, allowing the toe piece to maintain its simple, solid construction without requiring passages or openings. This separation of functions simplifies both components.
Solution Approach 2:
The binding system is segmented into independent functional modules: the toe piece remains a simple clamping structure, while the support plate with its integrated adjustment mechanism becomes a separate adjustable unit. This modular segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function without compromising the other.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the support plate rests on an oblique surface of the frame, then height adjustment is possible, but the surface does not provide adequate resistance to deformation during strong edge grips
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies different local qualities to different parts of the support plate structure. The contact surfaces with the frame are made horizontal to provide maximum resistance against deformation moments during edge grips. The adjustment mechanism area maintains its threaded structure for precise height control. This localized optimization ensures both adjustability and structural strength where needed.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of having the support plate rest on an oblique surface that slopes for adjustment, the invention inverts the approach by using horizontal contact surfaces combined with a vertical threaded adjustment mechanism. This inversion allows the support plate to be raised or lowered through vertical screw movement while maintaining stable horizontal contact points that resist deformation forces.
4Measurement precision
If only two fixed positions are provided for support plate adjustment, then the contact surface can be horizontal for each position, but the adjustment is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The invention transforms the static, discrete two-position adjustment system into a dynamic, continuous adjustment system. The threaded screw mechanism allows the support plate to be positioned at any height within its range, not just two fixed levels. This dynamic capability provides both the precision of horizontal contact surfaces and the versatility of continuous height variation.
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 solution provides precise and independent height adjustment of the support plate, even with the boot in place, and enhances resistance to deformation during intense edge grips, ensuring improved stability and accuracy for the skier.
Implementation Method 1
an adjustment screw head integral in rotation with said adjustment screw body by means of a cardan joint
Data Source
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AI summary
Support plate comprising a base (1) intended to be fixed to a ski and a skate (2) capable of coming into contact with a boot held in a device for fixing said boot to the ski, said support plate comprising adjustment means making it possible to vary the height of the skate (2) relative to the base (1), said adjustment means comprising an adjustment screw body (51), arranged along the longitudinal axis of the ski, and an adjustment screw head (52) integral in rotation with said adjustment screw body (51) by means of a cardan joint; said adjustment screw head (52) being arranged along an axis (X52) making an angle β of between 15° and 45°, preferably of between 20° and 40° with the longitudinal axis of the ski and said adjustment screw head (52) being capable of being driven in rotation by the user.