Splitboard Highback Forward Lean Adjustment Mechanism

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional highbacks for splitboards lack adjustability and versatility, particularly in transitioning between ski touring and ride modes, requiring tools for adjustments and not accommodating varying terrain and personal comfort needs.

Innovation Solution

A splitboard boot binding system with an adjustable highback featuring a captive jackscrew and threaded forward lean adjustor block that allows for smooth, tool-free adjustments of the forward lean angle, enabling riders to customize their stance for different skiing or riding styles and conditions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the highback is fixed at a specific forward lean angle, then the rider receives consistent support and control, but the binding system lacks adaptability to different riding styles and terrain conditions

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadaptability to different riding stylesVSAvoidcomplexity of adjustment mechanism

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The highback is designed with a dynamic adjustment mechanism that allows the forward lean angle to be changed during use. The adjustable highback assembly includes a highback component that can pivot relative to the baseplate, enabling the rider to transition between different forward lean angles (positive for downhill riding, negative for uphill skiing) based on terrain and personal preference, making the system adaptable rather than fixed

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The adjustment mechanism is designed to be operated directly by the rider without requiring external tools. The highback includes a pivot mechanism that can be manually adjusted by the rider through body movement or hand operation, allowing self-service adjustment of the forward lean angle to match different riding conditions and personal comfort preferences

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Ease of operation

If the highback requires tools for adjustment, then the adjustment mechanism can be precise and reliable, but the adjustment process becomes time-consuming and inconvenient

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of adjustmentVSAvoidprecision of forward lean angle

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The adjustment mechanism is designed to be operated directly by the rider without requiring external tools. The highback includes a pivot mechanism that can be manually adjusted by the rider through body movement or hand operation, allowing self-service adjustment of the forward lean angle to match different riding conditions and personal comfort preferences

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The highback is designed with a dynamic adjustment mechanism that allows the forward lean angle to be changed during use. The adjustable highback assembly includes a highback component that can pivot relative to the baseplate, enabling the rider to transition between different forward lean angles (positive for downhill riding, negative for uphill skiing) based on terrain and personal preference

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If the highback is fixed in a forward leaning position, then downhill riding control is improved, but uphill skiing mobility and comfort are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveversatility for both uphill and downhill modesVSAvoidcomfort for specific riding mode

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The binding system is designed to serve multiple functions: it can be configured for downhill snowboard-style riding with the highback in a forward leaning position, and for uphill ski-style touring with the highback in a reclined or neutral position. The adjustable highback assembly enables the same binding system to adapt to both descent and touring modes, providing universal functionality

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The highback is designed with a dynamic adjustment mechanism that allows the forward lean angle to be changed during use. The adjustable highback assembly includes a highback component that can pivot relative to the baseplate, enabling the rider to transition between different forward lean angles (positive for downhill riding, negative for uphill skiing) based on terrain and personal preference

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS10092816B2Splitboard boot binding system with adjustable highback

Publication Date: 2018.10.09 SPARK R&D HOLDINGS LLC

AI summary

An improved highback adjustment system for a splitboard boot binding. A captive strut is mounted on the spine of the highback, the strut having a forward lean adjustor block such that rotation or sliding of the block lengthens or shortens the strut. The combination provides a broadly adjustable range of forward lean bias in small increments and the block is readily disengaged and stowed on the highback when not needed. Advantageously, the mechanism that can be operated and adjusted without tools, even with gloved hands, a significant benefit in winter conditions, and does not jam with snow. Methods of use of the improved forward lean adjustor and highback are also disclosed.