Snowboard Binding Spoiler with Rotational Boot Stop
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Snowboard bindings require significant user effort to secure and release boots, especially when using motorized lifts, and existing automatic rear entry bindings do not efficiently minimize the force needed to rotate the spoiler into a closed position for easy boot attachment.
Innovation Solution
A snowboard binding design featuring a base with a rotating spoiler and pedal, where the shell base acts as a boot stop and is hinged around an axis of rotation, allowing for guided boot positioning and reduced effort in closing the binding, with arms connected to the base for forward and backward movement to facilitate efficient pedal action and locking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual action on straps is used to secure and release boots, then the binding can be operated, but the operation becomes laborious and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by implementing a movable spoiler that rotates between an open position (for easy boot insertion) and a closed position (for secure boot retention). The spoiler's rotational movement around an axis allows it to dynamically change position based on operational needs, transitioning from a retracted state during boot attachment to a forward state for securing the boot. This dynamic positioning eliminates the need for manual strap adjustment while reducing the time required for binding operations.
2Ease of operation
If automatic rear entry binding with rotating spoiler is used, then boot attachment is simplified, but significant force is required to rotate the spoiler into closed position
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the intermediary principle by introducing a boot stop as a mediating element between the user's boot and the spoiler mechanism. The boot stop, positioned at the forward end of the base, guides the boot into the correct position and provides a mechanical advantage point. This intermediary structure reduces the force required to rotate the spoiler by providing a stable reference point and leveraging the boot's position against the base, thereby facilitating easier spoiler rotation into the closed position.
3Reliability
If boot stop is positioned at forward end of base, then boot positioning is guided and secured, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the merging principle by integrating the boot stop function directly into the base structure rather than adding it as a separate, independent component. The boot stop is formed as an integral part of the base's forward end, combining the functions of structural support and boot guidance into a single unified element. This integration maintains reliable boot positioning accuracy while minimizing device complexity by eliminating the need for additional separate parts, fasteners, or adjustment mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A snowboard binding with a base, a bearing shell movable about a first rotary pin supported by the base, and a pedal for controlling the bearing shell from an open position to a closed position, the bearing shell including a shell bottom and two shell sides supporting the pedal. The first rotary pin is supported by the bearing shell to form a boot stop in the shell bottom in any position of the bearing shell lying between an open position and the closed position. The shell bottom can support a bearing and the base, a pin housed in the bearing to form a hinge extending along the axis of rotation of the first rotary pin. The pedal can move relative to the shell sides about a second axis of rotation and be supported by two arms.