Snowboard Binding Adjustment Memory Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current snowboard bindings are slow to tighten and secure, requiring repeated adjustments and re-strapping, which is time-consuming and annoying, especially for stunt riding and accessing ski lifts.
Innovation Solution
The snowboard binding employs a pivoting toggle lever, pre-adjusted straps with a pivoting heel support and a release/tightening mechanism, allowing for quick and secure boot insertion and removal with minimal adjustment needed, utilizing memory materials and tensioning devices like cables and gears for consistent fit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional straps and adjustment mechanisms are used to secure boots to the board, then the rider can achieve a secure fit, but the process is too slow and requires repeated adjustments
Solution Approach 1:
The binding system pre-positions the toe strap, ankle strap, and heel strap in a configured state before boot insertion. The toe strap is pre-adjusted to the desired tension, the ankle strap is pre-positioned with its ratchet mechanism ready, and the heel strap is pre-configured. This preliminary configuration eliminates the need for repeated adjustments during binding/unbinding cycles, allowing riders to quickly secure their boots without time-consuming re-adjustments while maintaining reliable security.
2Ease of operation
If the binding is made easy to open and close for quick access, then the rider can quickly remove and reinsert boots, but the security and stability of the fit may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The binding system is divided into three independent strap segments: toe strap, ankle strap, and heel strap, each with its own securing mechanism. The toe strap uses a simple over-center latch for quick engagement, the ankle strap employs a ratchet mechanism for secure one-way tightening, and the heel strap uses a buckle system for rapid adjustment. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for both ease of operation and reliability, with the pivot point at the toe of the boot providing a natural hinge for quick opening/closing while maintaining secure fit through the distributed strap system.
3Reliability
If multiple adjustment mechanisms are used to achieve a snug fit, then the security is improved, but the complexity of the device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The binding system merges three separate strap functions (toe strap, ankle strap, heel strap) into a coordinated system that operates through a single pivot point at the toe of the boot. This consolidation allows the straps to work together as an integrated unit, providing secure fit through their combined action rather than requiring three independent adjustment systems. The pivot point serves as a common reference that synchronizes the operation of all straps, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining the security benefits of multiple attachment points.
Data Source
AI summary
A binding for snowboard includes a base structure and a heel support pivotally mounted to the base structure for movement between an open position for allowing a user to insert or remove their boot from the binding and a closed position for securing the users boot in the binding. An adjustable foot strap is attached to the base structure and a tensioning system is attached to the heel support and the adjustable foot strap for applying a tensioning force to the adjustable strap when the heel support is moved to the closed position and for releasing the tensioning force from the adjustable foot strap when the seal support is moved to the open position.