Telescopic Ski Towing Device with Deployable Rolling Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ski towing devices are bulky, difficult to install, and require disassembly and storage, making them cumbersome and painful to use in cold weather, especially on skis with curved heels, and they are not suitable for all types of skis.
Innovation Solution
A compact towing device with a base that mounts on the ski heel, featuring a telescopic fork and rolling element that can be easily deployed and stowed with a single hand movement, and a protective cover that locks over the mechanism to prevent debris insertion, allowing for secure attachment and detachment without needing to be carried or assembled.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If existing ski towing devices are used, then towing function is provided, but they are bulky and difficult to install
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into a base portion that remains fixed on the ski and a movable towing portion that can be deployed or retracted. This segmentation allows the towing function to be activated only when needed, simplifying installation while maintaining functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The towing device incorporates movable components that can transition between deployed and retracted states. The pad can slide between positions and the towing element can be extended or retracted based on operational needs, making the device adaptable rather than static.
2Ease of operation
If existing ski towing devices are used, then towing function is provided, but they require disassembly and storage
Solution Approach 1:
The base portion is pre-installed on the ski, and the towing components are pre-configured to automatically deploy when needed. This preliminary setup eliminates the need for repeated assembly and disassembly operations during use.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates automatic deployment mechanisms where the towing elements are released or extended automatically when the ski is positioned correctly, without requiring manual assembly or disassembly by the user.
3Ease of operation
If existing ski towing devices are used, then towing function is provided, but installation is tedious in cold weather
Solution Approach 1:
The device uses automatic deployment mechanisms that activate when the ski is positioned correctly, eliminating manual manipulation of small components in cold weather. The self-activating nature of the deployment reduces the physical effort and dexterity required during installation.
4Adaptability or versatility
If existing ski towing devices are used, then towing function is provided, but they are not suitable for skis with curved heels
Solution Approach 1:
The base portion is designed with a universal mounting system that can accommodate various ski heel shapes including curved heels. The mounting mechanism adapts to different geometries, making the device compatible with multiple ski types without requiring model-specific designs.
5Ease of operation
If the towing device is made compact, then ease of attachment is improved, but protection from debris may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The towing elements are nested within or alongside the base structure when not in use, creating a compact profile that protects internal components from debris while maintaining ease of deployment. The nested configuration provides natural protection without requiring additional protective housings.
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 device provides a convenient, pain-free way to tow skis, is adaptable to any ski shape, and remains permanently attached, eliminating the need for assembly and disassembly, ensuring functionality and protection from environmental hazards.
Implementation Method 1
resting on the ground via the rolling element
Data Source
Figure 1~4
Figure 5~11
Figure 12~13
AI summary
The invention relates to a telescopic device for towing a board for boardsports, in particular a ski, comprising: - a base to be mounted on the board for boardsports; a skid capable of assuming an in-use position in which said skid is positioned spaced apart from said base, and an out-of-use position in which said skid is positioned close to said base; - means for mounting the skid so as to slide relative to said base between the in-use position and the out-of-use position; - means for retaining the skid in the in-use position, comprising a retaining device that is part of the skid and an additional retaining device that is part of the means for slidably mounting the skid. Said device is characterized in that said retaining means are designed to assume an active position for retaining of the skid in the in-use position, wherein said active position is intended for a movement stress which is exerted on the skid in the direction of the out-of-use position thereof and is less than a predetermined stress, and an inactive retaining position intended for a stress that is greater than said predetermined stress.