Ski Suspension Platform with Adjustable Struts for Shock Absorption

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing suspension systems for skiing and snowboarding fail to effectively absorb shock and vibrations, leading to fatigue, loss of contact with the snow, and increased risk of physical injury, as they are either ineffective, too complex, heavy, or not adjustable to varying conditions.

Innovation Solution

A ski assembly with a suspension system comprising a platform and adjustable struts that provide central clearance between the ski and ski boot, allowing for absorption of shock and vibrations by exerting resultant forces through the struts, which can include shock absorbers, bump stops, and springs, and are adaptable to different skiing and snowboarding conditions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional ski suspension systems are used, then shock absorption is provided, but the systems are either ineffective, too complex, heavy, or not adjustable to skiing conditions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveshock absorption effectivenessVSAvoidsuspension system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The suspension system is divided into separate functional components: a suspension platform that interfaces with the ski, multiple struts that provide shock absorption, and a binding assembly that secures the boot. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently for its specific function while maintaining overall system effectiveness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The suspension platform serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides a mounting surface for the struts, creates adjustable central clearance for shock absorption travel, interfaces with the ski, and supports the binding assembly. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, simplifying the overall system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If traditional ski suspension systems are used, then shock absorption is provided, but the systems are either ineffective, too complex, heavy, or not adjustable to skiing conditions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveshock absorption effectivenessVSAvoidsuspension system weight
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The system allows adjustment of the central clearance parameter between the ski running surface and boot sole, enabling optimization of shock absorption travel distance. The struts can be configured with different shock absorber, spring, and bump stop parameters to match varying skier weights and snow conditions, achieving effective shock absorption without excessive weight.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Adaptability or versatility

If adjustable central clearance is provided, then shock absorption travel is optimized, but the system must be adaptable to varying skier weights and snow conditions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadjustability to skiing conditionsVSAvoidadjustment complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The suspension system incorporates adjustable central clearance that can be dynamically modified to match different skier weights and snow conditions. The struts include adjustable shock absorbers and springs that allow the system to adapt its damping characteristics and travel range, providing optimal performance across varying conditions without requiring complete system replacement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 improved comfort, speed, and edge control by effectively absorbing shock and vibrations, reducing fatigue and the risk of injury, while being adjustable to match the weight, style, and performance level of the user and varying snow conditions.

Implementation Method 1

each strut comprising at least one of a shock absorber, a bump stop, a spring, a reservoir, and combinations thereof

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectShock absorption: Damping

Implementation Method 2

The suspension platform is configured to absorb shock and vibration generated during use of the ski assembly

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectVibration absorption: Damping

Implementation Method 3

each strut comprising at least one of a shock absorber, a bump stop, a spring, a reservoir, and combinations thereof

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS11013980B2Ski suspension system and method
Publication Date: 2021.05.25 NICHOLS KENNETH
  • US11013980B2 patent drawing
  • US11013980B2 patent drawing
  • US11013980B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Device and methods for a ski assembly system and snowboard assembly system having a ski or snowboard with a centerline axis, a perpendicular axis, and a ski suspension system. The ski or snowboard suspension system has a suspension platform with two or more struts rotatably coupled with the suspension platform and at least one of a front mount assembly and a rear mount assembly.