Snowboard Binding Highback Multi-Notch Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing snowboard bindings struggle to securely lock the support shell in the closed position, especially when snow accumulates between the pedal and the base, making it difficult to pivot the support shell into the closing position.
Innovation Solution
The snowboard binding incorporates a lug that is received in a fork of the notched means or lever, allowing the lever to snap into different closing positions by unclicking it from one notch and snapping it into another, ensuring secure locking in various conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single closing position locking mechanism is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability deteriorates when snow accumulates between the pedal and base
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is segmented into multiple discrete notches (first notch, second notch, third notch) positioned at different angular positions. Each notch represents a distinct closing position that can be independently engaged. This segmentation allows the system to overcome snow accumulation by providing multiple engagement points rather than relying on a single continuous locking surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism transitions from a static single-position lock to a dynamic multi-position locking system. The lever can be manually or automatically positioned at different notches depending on the operating conditions. The system adapts its locking position based on whether the pedal is being engaged normally or during a snow-accumulation scenario, providing flexibility in maintaining reliable locking.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a multi-notch locking mechanism is implemented, then the adaptability to different closing positions is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The multi-notch locking mechanism serves multiple functions: it provides normal closing position locking, prevents snow accumulation from preventing engagement, and allows manual override when automatic locking fails. The same lever and notch system handles both routine operation and exceptional conditions, making the system universally applicable to various operating scenarios without requiring separate mechanisms for each function.
3Ease of operation
If the lever is manually tilted to unlock, then the ease of operation is improved, but the time required for unlocking increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed to be self-unlocking through automatic lever return. When the pedal is released, the elastic return lever automatically returns to its initial position, which disengages the locking lever from the notch. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for manual tilting operations, providing both ease of operation and speed by removing the manual intervention step entirely.
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
This solution allows the snowboard binding to securely lock the support shell in the closed position, regardless of snow accumulation, ensuring reliable engagement of the elastic return lever with the locking means.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic return lever (13, 13a, 13b) to automatically return to its initial position, which has the effect of unlocking the support shell (3) from the closed position
Data Source
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AI summary
Snowboard binding comprising a base (1), a highback (3) that is rotatable with respect to the base (1), a pedal (5) for making the highback (3), when being fastened around a boot, move between an open position and a closed position, and a means (15) for preventing the highback (3) from rotating with respect to the base (1) in the closed position, counter to the elastic return of a lever (13), the means (15) comprising two catches (17) for engaging with the lever. According to the invention, the snowboard binding comprises a peg (21) received in a fork of the means (15) with catches (17) or of the lever (13) in order to drive the means with catches or the lever in rotation, by disengaging the lever from one of the catches and engaging it with the other catch during boot fastening.