TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to ski equipment and particularly attachment of a ski shoe in a ski binding.

BACKGROUND

[0002] International patent publication W084/00498 A1 shows a ski binding, comprising a frame with two vertical edges with circular holes that are to be located on each side of a tip of a ski shoe. The tip of the ski shoe has two protruding, spring-loaded, rounded pins, which are arranged to grip into the holes to attach the ski in the binding. The shoe can be removed from the binding by applying a bending force to the shoe relative to the ski.

When the force is sufficiently strong, the pins, due to their rounded ends, will be forced inwards, and the shoe will be released from the binding. A release mechanism in the form of a lever to bend the shoe out of the binding has also been described.

[0003] European patent application EP2946818 A1 also shows a ski binding with a frame with two edges, wherein each of the edges has a hole with a sleeve for receiving protruding, spring- loaded pins in a ski shoe. To be attached in the binding, the ski shoe must be placed so that the pins hit narrowing grooves above the hole and subsequently is pressed down. The pins are pressed in on their way downwards, and as they reach the hole they bounce out, so that the ski shoe is attached to the binding.

[0004] The solution, which is described in prior art, implies a large number of disadvantages in that they do not work very well in practice, for instance as a consequence of snow packing, they are difficult to use, and they are unnecessarily complicated, which makes the bindings expensive.

[0005] In the development of this type of ski binding system, which is described in this text, the tight tolerances, which are desirable to give a good feel of the product, a good user experience when in use, sufficient torsion rigidity and feedback etc., also makes it more difficult to get into and out of the binding. An effect, which has been noticed, is that the spring-loaded pins that project into the receiving holes of the ski binding have a tendency to get «pinched» in the holes at relatively small torsion forces. This can cause the pins to be difficult to withdraw or push in when the user e.g. stands on a slightly awkward or unstable foundation, bends down and tries to operate the release mechanism. Thus, it becomes difficult to get out of the binding. Something similar can happen, when the user wants to get into the binding: If the shoe and the pins are only slightly inclined relative to the holes in the binding, it can be difficult to hit the holes with the pins, and the front of the ski shoe can get stuck in an inclined position between the vertical brackets of the ski binding, without both or either of the pins have slipped completely into the holes. Thus, it becomes difficult to get into the binding. Further challenges can arise when the various surfaces between the ski shoe and the ski binding become worn or are covered in dirt/ice/snow.

[0006] Therefore it is an object of the present invention to provide a solution that improves the user experience, is robust and which continues to be functional during various conditions of use.

BRIEF SUMMARY

[0007] The invention comprises a ski binding for attaching a ski shoe, a ski shoe with an attachment mechanism, and a ski binding system according to the independent claims.

DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

[0008] Fig. la illustrates a ski binding in perspective, viewed from above and from the front, according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0009] Fig. 1 illustrates the same binding as in Fig. la, but viewed from above.

[0010] Fig. lc illustrates the same binding as in Fig. la, viewed from the side.

[0011] Fig. Id illustrates the same binding as in Figs la, lb and lc viewed in section A-A, as illustrated in Fig. lc.

[0012] Figs 2a to 2d illustrate the same section as in Fig. Id, and further a lower part of a ski shoe in different positions relative to the ski binding. These figures can represent a sequence illustrating how the ski shoe can be attached in the binding.

[0013] Fig. 3 illustrates the same section as in Fig. 2b, an alternative embodiment of the ski binding (10) and the ski shoe (50). Instead of the first and second depressions (15a, 15b) in the ski binding (10), the underside of the attachment mechanism (51) for the ski shoe (50) has a narrowing or curved surface, so that there will be an opening between the ski binding (10) and the attachment mechanism (51) to the side wall (10a), when the ski shoe (50) is locked in the ski binding (10).

[0014] Figs 4a and 4b illustrate, in a perspective view and a section, an embodiment of a ski binding (110) and parts of a ski shoe (150). The ski binding on the drawing has a release mechanism (140). [0015] Figs 5a, 5b and 5c illustrate in a perspective view, a view from above and a section, respectively, an embodiment of the ski binding (210) with a release mechanism (240), the release mechanism being in an open position.

[0016] Figs 5d, 5e, 5f illustrate the same binding as in Figs 5a, 5b and 5c, but with the release mechanism (240) in the attached position.

[0017] Fig. 6 illustrates, from above and downward, a perspective view, view from below, view from the side and a section, an embodiment of a ski shoe (50, 150) with attachment mechanism (51, 151).

[0018] Fig. 7a illustrates a section viewed from the front or the rear, an attachment mechanism according to the embodiment of the invention. Various embodiments of the internal parts of the attachment mechanism are shown in Figs 7b, 7c and 7d, in addition to those shown in e.g. Figs 2a and 4b.

[0019] Figs 8a and 8b show an embodiment of an attachment mechanism, wherein the ends around the pins are rounded or tapered.

[0020] Figs 9a-9c show an embodiment of an attachment mechanism with a walk surface protruding or projecting down below the cradle surface.

[0021] Figs lOa-lOe show how the embodiment in Figs 9a-9c can fit into an embodiment of a ski binding.

[0022] Figs lla-lle show schematic sketches of how surfaces in the holes and cradle can have various configurations and still be sufficiently firmly fixed.

EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

[0023] In the following part of the description, various examples and embodiments of the invention are shown to provide the skilled person with a more detailed understanding of the invention. The specific details related to the various embodiments and with references to the drawing attached are intended to be combined across the examples.

[0024] In this connection, the embodiments are numbered to provide a good understanding of what is included in each of them. Moreover, a number of dependent embodiments are described, which are defined relative to the numbered inventions. Unless otherwise indicated, an embodiment that is dependent on a numbered embodiment, can be combined directly with the referred embodiment or anyone of its dependent embodiments. [0025] The term attached position is used for indicating that the ski shoe is locked at both sides of the ski binding. In order to be able to remove the ski shoe from the binding, it is required that a release mechanism is to be operated/manipulated/actuated.

[0026] An open position indicates all other situations, also where the ski shoe is in contact with or partially hooked together with the binding, so that the ski shoe can be removed from the binding without having to release it.

Ski binding

[0027] Initially, various embodiments of a ski binding will be described, arranged for inclined insertion and removal. The term «arranged» means that the binding is configured, so that it is not critical whether full symmetry and balance are reached for getting into and out of the binding. The invention is suitable for standing in an askew or unstable way, but still being able to getting effortlessly into and out of the binding. The same applies to the system in its entirety.

[0028] In a first independent binding embodiment, the invention is a ski binding (10, 110, 210) for attaching a ski shoe (50, 150) with a first downward support surface (53a, 153a, 253a) to a ski.

[0029] The ski binding (10) comprises first and second opposite side walls (10a, 10b, 110a, 110b, 210a, 210b), with first and second attachment elements (11a, lib, 111a, 111b, 211a, 211b), respectively, and an upward support surface (13a, 113a, 213a) between the first and second opposite side walls.

[0030] In a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the ski binding, the ski binding is adapted to receive the ski shoe in an inclined position relative to the ski binding. The ski binding is adapted to allow the first downward support surface to rest on the support surface in a contact point (14a, 114a), in which a first complementary attachment element (51a, 151a) on the shoe side will be located under the first attachment element.

[0031] In another independent binding embodiment, the invention is a ski binding (10, 110, 210), comprising first and second opposite side walls (10a, 10b, 110a, 110b, 210a, 210b), an upward support surface (13a, 113a, 213a) arranged between the side walls, and a depression (15a, 115a, 215a) between the upward support surface and the first side wall.

[0032] Here too, the ski binding is adapted to allow the first downward support surface to rest on the support surface in a contact point (14a, 114a), in which a first complementary attachment element (51a, 151a) on the shoe side will be located under the first attachment element. [0033] The depression (15a) is e.g. illustrated in Figs 2a to 2d and allows the end of the attachment mechanism (51) to fall down into the depression in the first part of the inclined insertion, so that the first attachment element, i.e. the pin on the ski shoe in Figs 2a to 2d, can easily be placed under the first complementary attachment element on the side wall of the binding.

[0034] In a third binding embodiment, which can be combined with the first or second independent binding embodiment, the first attachment element is adapted to receive the first complementary attachment element from below, as the ski shoe is pivoted about the contact point until the complementary attachment element is engaged with the first attachment element in an attached position.

[0035] In a first dependent embodiment, the ski binding is adapted to move the position of the contact point in a lateral direction, the ski shoe being pivoted about the contact point.

[0036] In a second dependent embodiment, the ski binding is adapted to move the position of the contact point vertically, the ski shoe being pivoted about the contact point.

[0037] In a third dependent embodiment, the ski binding is adapted to allow the downward support surface slide sideways on the upward support surface (13a), the ski shoe (50) pivoting about the contact point (14a). The slide can be towards the first side wall.

[0038] In a fourth dependent embodiment, the first attachment element is adapted to restrict the upper position of the complementary attachment element relative to the ski binding in the attached position.

[0039] In a fifth dependent embodiment, the first attachment element is adapted to retain the first complementary attachment element in the longitudinal direction of the ski binding in the attached position.

[0040] Furthermore, the upward support surface can be adapted to retain the first downward support surface in the longitudinal direction in the attached position.

[0041] Any of the dependent embodiments above can be freely combined with anyone of the other dependent embodiments.

[0042] In a fourth binding embodiment, which can be combined with anyone of the binding embodiments above, and anyone of its dependent embodiments, the ski binding has a pivot axis (D) travelling through the first and second attachment elements, and wherein the ski binding is adapted to retain the ski shoe pivotably about the pivot axis, so that the downward support surface slides forwards and backwards on the upward support surface when the ski shoe is pivoted about the pivot axis in the attached position. [0043] In a fifth binding embodiment, which can be combined with anyone of the above binding embodiments, the upward support surface has a concave surface in a cross section perpendicular to the pivot axis.

[0044] The concave support surface can have a radius (r) corresponding to the distance between the pivot axis and the upward support surface.

[0045] In a sixth binding embodiment, which can be combined with anyone of the above binding embodiments, the first and second opposite side walls have first and second attachment members, respectively, wherein the first attachment element comprises a hole.

[0046] In various alternative embodiments, the hole can be circular, extended standing or drop-shaped.

[0047] Furthermore, the hole can in various alternative embodiments be a depression from the inside of the first side wall or a through-going hole.

[0048] In a seventh binding embodiment, which can be combined with anyone of the above binding embodiments, the ski binding is symmetrical about a longitudinal axis.

Release mechanism

[0049] The above ski binding can be combined with a release mechanism. Various embodiments of release mechanisms are described below. The release mechanism chosen is not critical for carrying out the invention, but a few comments are still relevant.

[0050] In a first release embodiment, which can be combined with anyone of the above binding embodiments, the ski binding comprises a release mechanism (40, 140, 240) adapted to release the ski shoe from the attached position.

[0051] In a dependent embodiment, the release mechanism can comprise an operating element (41, 141, 241) and a release element (43, 143, 243), which is coupled to the operating element, wherein the release element is adapted to apply an inward force in the hole (16a, 116b, 216a) by operating the operating element.

[0052] In a second release embodiment, which can be combined with the first release embodiment above, the release element (43a, 143a) is adapted to rotate about a rotation point in a section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the ski binding.

[0053] In a third embodiment, illustrated in Fig. 1, which can be combined with the second release embodiment, the release mechanism comprises a longitudinal pivot axis (42a) arranged to transfer the pivot moment from one end to the other, when it is pivoted, wherein the axis at each end comprises an arm extending transversely of the longitudinal direction of the axis, so that applying force on the arm at one end means that the force will be transferred to the arm at the other end of the axis.

[0054] The one arm can be arranged under the operating element (41), and the second arm can be attached to the release element (43a).

[0055] In a more detailed description of the ski binding shown in Figs la, lb, lc and Id, we see that the release mechanism (40) firstly comprises an operating element (41) in the form of a button adapted to be pressed down for loosening a ski shoe (50) from the binding (10). Moreover, it comprises a longitudinal pivotable axis (42a) arranged to transfer the pivot moment from one end to the other, when it is pivoted. At each end, the axis (42a) has an arm extending transversely of the longitudinal direction of the axis, so that by applying force on the arm at one end, the force will be transferred to the arm at the other end. The one arm is arranged under the operating element (41), and the second one is attached to the release element (43a), which is arranged to move in the hole (16a) in a rotating movement transversely of the binding (10), as illustrated by dashed arrows in Fig. Id.

[0056] As the operating element (40) is pressed down, the arm under the operating element (41) will be pressed down, so that the axis (42a) is pivoted. Thus, the arm and the release element (43a) at the other end of the axis (42a) also pivots in towards the centre of the so that a complementary attachment member, in this case in the form of a pin in the ski shoe located in the hole (16a), will be pressed in towards the centre of the binding (210) and come loose from the attachment element (11a) in the first side wall (10a).

[0057] The release mechanism (40) can also comprise a second axis (42b) that is reversed relative to the first one, as shown in Figs la, lb, lc, Id, 2a and 2b. Thereby, the pins on both sides of the ski shoe will be released simultaneously.

[0058] The release mechanism (40) can be spring-loaded, so that it is in a normal locked position. E.g. a spring can be arranged under the operating element (41). Thereby, it will only be necessary to operate the release mechanism (40), when it is to be opened.

[0059] In a fourth release embodiment, which can be combined with the first or the second release embodiment above, the release mechanism comprises an arm, which at one end is suspended in a joint (142) with the release element (143) in the form of a pin arranged between the joint and the operating element, which is attached firmly to the other end of the arm, so that by applying force on the operating element, the force will be transferred to the release element (143). [0060] In a more detailed description of the ski binding illustrated in Figs 4a and 4b, the attachment mechanism (151) in the ski shoe (150) with first and second complementary attachment elements (151a, 151b) and a first and a second downward support surface (153a, 153b) is the same as in the first specific embodiment described above.

[0061] In the shown section in Fig. 4b, it can be seen that the ski binding (110) also comprises the same elements as in Figs 2a to 2d. The first and second side walls (110a, 110b) have first and second attachment elements (111a, 111b), respectively. Further, it has first and second support surfaces (113a, 113b).

[0062] In this case, the first and the second holes (116a, 116b) are vertically elongate, but they could also have had another shape, e.g. drop-shaped as shown in Fig. lc.

[0063] In the same manner as in the specific embodiment above, the ski binding (110) is thereby adapted to receive the ski shoe (150) with the first downward support surface (153a) in an inclined position relative to the ski binding (110), wherein the first downward support surface (153a) rests on the support surface (113a) in a contact point (114a), and a first complementary attachment element (151a) on the side of the shoe is located under the first attachment element (111a). The sequence will correspond to what is illustrated and described for Figs 2a to 2d.

[0064] In this embodiment, the release mechanism (140) differs from the release mechanism (40) in the first specific embodiment. Here the release consists of an operating element (141) in the form of an arm that is suspended in a joint (142) at one end and has a projecting pin (143) between the joint and an opposite end of the arm (140). By pressing the arm towards the ski binding (110), the pin will thereby move in a circular path with a radius given by the distance between the joint (142) and the end of the pin (143), indicated by the dashed arrow. During this movement, the pin (143) will press in the second complementary attachment element (151b), so that the ski shoe (150) comes loose from the ski binding (110) and can be lifted up and out in the reverse process of the insertion process described above.

[0065] Figs 4a and 4b show that the arm pivots about a longitudinal axis in the joint (142). However, the same mechanism can be used if the pivot axis is vertical or is located in the plane formed by a longitudinal and a vertical axis.

[0066] In a fifth release embodiment, which can be combined with the first release embodiment above, the operating element (241) in the form of an arm, is pivotably suspended in the ski binding, wherein the arm is connected with a transverse axis (244) that is movable transversely of the binding (210), and wherein the axis (244) is firmly connected with the release element (243), so that at application of force on the operating element, the force will be transferred to the release element.

[0067] In a more detailed description of the ski binding illustrated in Figs 5a to 5f, the ski binding (210) comprises the same elements as in Figs 2a to 2d and 4a and 4b. The first and second side walls (210a, 210b) have first and second attachment elements (211a, 211b), respectively. Further, it has first and second support surfaces (213a, 213b).

[0068] In this case, the first and the second holes (116a, 116b) are vertically elongate, but they could also have had another shape, e.g. drop-shaped as shown in Fig. lc.

[0069] Here the ski binding (210) is also adapted to receive a ski shoe (not shown) with the first downward support surface in an inclined position relative to the ski binding (210), wherein the first downward support surface rests on the support surface in a contact point, and a first complementary attachment element on the side of the shoe is located under the first attachment element (111a). The sequence will correspond to what is illustrated and described for Figs 2a to 2d.

[0070] In this embodiment, the release mechanism (240) differs from the release mechanism in the first and the second specific embodiments. Here, the release consists of an operating element in the form of an arm (241) suspended in a joint in the binding body (not shown). The arm (241) is connected by a transverse axis (244), which is moveable transversely of the binding (210). The axis (244) is firmly connected with a release element (243) arranged to move in the hole (216a) transversely of the binding (210). The position of the release element (243) is determined by the position of the arm (241). In Figs 5a, 5b and 5c, the ski binding (210) is in an open position, i.e. a ski shoe will not be locked to the binding in the ski binding (210), while it is in a locked position in Figs 5d, 5e and 5f. The ski binding should be in a locked position as the ski boot is inserted into the binding, so that the attachment elements in the ski shoe, i.e. the pins in this case, can be pressed into the holes (216a, 216b) on both sides of the binding (210). If the binding is to be opened or released, the arm (241) is operated towards open position. The arm (241) will pull the axis (244) and the release element (243) in towards the centre of the binding (210), so that the pin in the hole (216b) is also pressed inwards and is thereby released from the ski binding (210), so that the ski shoe can be lifted up and out in the reverse process of the insertion process as described above.

[0071] The release mechanism (240) can be spring-loaded, so that it is in a normal locked position. E.g. a spring can be arranged between the housing of the ski binding (210) and the axis (244). Thereby, the binding will also be ready for insertion, and it will only be necessary to operate the release mechanism (240), when it is to be opened. Ski shoe

[0072] In a first independent ski shoe embodiment, the invention is a ski shoe (50, 150) with an attachment mechanism (51, 151), comprising first and second complementary attachment elements (51a, 51b, 151a, 151b, 251a, 251b, 351a, 351b, 451a, 451b) on opposite sides of the ski shoe and a first downward support surface (53a, 153a ) arranged between the complementary attachment members.

[0073] In a plane that is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the ski shoe, the ski shoe is adapted to be placed in an inclined position between first and second opposite side walls (10a, 10b, 110a, 110b, 210a, 210b) in a ski binding (10, 110, 210), with respective first and second attachment elements (11a, lib, 111a, 111b, 211a, 211b), and an upward support surface (13a, 113a, 213a) between the first and second opposite side walls, wherein the first downward support surface rests on the upward support surface in a contact point (14a, 114a), and wherein the first complementary attachment element is located under the first attachment element.

[0074] In a second ski shoe embodiment, which can be combined with the first ski shoe embodiment, the first complementary attachment element is adapted to be brought together with the first attachment element from below, the ski shoe being pivoted about the contact point until the complementary attachment element is engaged with the first attachment element in an attached position.

[0075] The position of the contact point in the lateral direction and/or in the vertical direction be changed in dependent embodiments, the ski shoe being pivoted about the contact point.

[0076] In a dependent embodiment, the downward support surface can slide sideways on the upward support surface, the ski shoe being pivoted about the contact point. The downward support surface will then slide towards the first side wall (10a), the ski shoe being pivoted towards the attached position.

[0077] In a third ski shoe embodiment, which can be combined with the second ski shoe embodiment above, and anyone of its dependent embodiments, the downward support surface is adapted to restrict the lower position of the ski shoe relative to the ski binding in the attached position.

[0078] In a first dependent embodiment, which can be combined with the third ski shoe embodiment, the first complementary attachment element is adapted to restrict the upper position of the ski shoe relative to the ski binding in the attached position. [0079] In a second dependent embodiment, which can be combined with the third ski shoe embodiment or anyone of its dependent embodiments, the first attachment element is adapted to retain the ski shoe (in the longitudinal direction relative to the ski binding in the attached position.

[0080] In a third dependent embodiment, which can be combined with the third ski shoe embodiment or anyone of its dependent embodiments, the first downward support surface is adapted to retain the ski shoe in the longitudinal direction relative to the ski binding in the attached position.

[0081] In a fourth ski shoe embodiment, which can be combined with the second or third binding embodiments above, and anyone of its dependent embodiments, the ski shoe has a pivot axis travelling through the first and the second complementary attachment elements, and wherein the ski shoe (50) is adapted to pivot about the pivot axis (D), so that the downward support surface slides forwards and backwards on the upward support surface when the ski shoe is pivoted about the pivot axis (D) in the attached position.

[0082] In a dependent embodiment, the first downward support surface in a cross section perpendicular to the pivot axis (D) has a convex surface.

[0083] In a dependent embodiment, the convex surface has a radius (r) corresponding to the distance between the pivot axis (D) and the first downward support surface.

[0084] In a fifth ski shoe embodiment, which can be combined with anyone of the second to fourth ski shoe embodiments above, and anyone of their dependent embodiments, the first and/or second complementary attachment element comprises a pin.

[0085] The pin or pins can be spring-loaded.

[0086] Further, the pin or pins can be spring-loaded either inwards or outwards, i.e. a force will have to act on the pin to push it out of the shoe, or conversely, a force will have to act on the pin to push it into the shoe.

Ski binding system

[0087] In a first independent binding system embodiment, the invention is a ski binding system (100), comprising a ski binding (10, 110, 210) with first and second opposite side walls (10a, 10b, 110a, 110b, 210a, 210b) with first and second attachment elements (11a, lib, 111a, 111b, 211a, 211b), respectively, and an upward support surface (13a, 113a, 213a) between the first and second opposite side walls. The ski binding system (100) also comprises a ski shoe (50, 150) with an attachment mechanism (51, 151), comprising first and second complementary attachment elements (51a, 51b, 151a, 151b, 251a, 251b, 351a, 351b, 451a, 451b) on opposite sides of the ski shoe and a first downward support surface (53, 153a, 253a ) arranged between the complementary attachment members.

[0088] In a first dependent embodiment, the ski binding system, in a plane standing perpendicularly to the longitudinal direction of the ski binding, is adapted to receive the ski shoe in an inclined position relative to the ski binding, wherein the first downward support surface rests on the upward support surface in a contact point (14a, 114a), and wherein the first complementary attachment element is under the first attachment element.

[0089] In a second dependent embodiment, the second complementary attachment element is located above the second attachment element in the inclined position.

[0090] In a second binding system embodiment, which can be combined with the first binding system embodiment and anyone of its dependent embodiments, the first attachment element is adapted to receive the first complementary attachment element from below, the ski shoe and the first downward support surface being pivoted about the contact point towards an attached position, wherein the first and the second attachment members are engaged with the first and the second complementary attachment members, respectively.

[0091] In a first dependent embodiment, the position of the contact point is changed in a lateral direction, the ski shoe being pivoted about the contact point.

[0092] In a second dependent embodiment, the position of the contact point is changed vertically, the ski shoe being pivoted about the contact point.

[0093] In a third dependent embodiment, the ski binding system is adapted to allow the downward support surface to slide sideways on the upward support surface, the ski shoe being pivoted about the contact point. The downward support surface is thus displaced towards the first side wall

[0094] In a third binding system embodiment, which can be combined with the first or second binding system embodiment and anyone of its dependent embodiments, wherein the upward support surface is adapted to restrict the lower position of the downward support surface relative to the ski binding in the attached position.

[0095] In a first dependent embodiment, the first attachment element is adapted to restrict the upper position of the complementary attachment element relative to the ski binding in the attached position.

[0096] In a second dependent embodiment, the first attachment element is adapted to retain the first complementary attachment element in the longitudinal direction of the ski binding in the attached position. [0097] In a third dependent embodiment, the upward support surface is adapted to retain the downward support surface in the longitudinal direction in the attached position.

[0098] In a fourth binding system embodiment, which can be combined with anyone of the binding system embodiments above, and anyone of its dependent embodiments, a pivot axis (D) travels through the first and the second attachment elements, and the first and the second complementary attachment members, and the ski binding system retains the ski shoe pivotably about the pivot axis, so that the ski shoe slides forwards and backwards on the support surface when it is pivoted about the pivot axis (D) in the attached position.

[0099] In a first dependent embodiment, the upward support surface in a cross section perpendicular to the pivot axis has a concave surface.

[0100] In a second dependent embodiment, the upward support surface has a radius (r) corresponding to the distance between the pivot axis (D) and the upward support surface.

[0101] In a third dependent embodiment, the first downward support surface in a cross section perpendicular to the pivot axis has a convex surface.

[0102] In a fourth dependent embodiment, the convex surface has a radius (r) corresponding to the distance between the pivot axis and the first downward support surface.

[0103] Note that the ski binding in the ski binding system can be in accordance with any embodiment of the binding embodiments described above in this document.

[0104] This also applies to the ski shoe in the ski binding system, which can be in accordance with any embodiment of the ski shoe embodiments described above in this document.

Method for attaching a ski shoe to a ski binding

[0105] In an independent embodiment, the invention is a method for attaching a ski shoe (50, 150) in a ski binding (10, 110, 210). To release the binding, the order can be reversed.

[0106] The ski binding comprises first and second opposite side walls (10a, 10b, 110a, 110b, 210a, 210b), with first and second attachment elements (11a, lib, 111a, 111b, 211a, 211b), respectively, and an upward support surface (13a, 113a, 213a) between the first and second opposite side walls.

[0107] The ski shoe (50, 150) also comprises an attachment mechanism (51, 151), comprising first and second complementary attachment elements (51a, 51b, 151a, 151b, 251a, 251b, 351a, 351b, 451a, 451b) on opposite sides of the ski shoe and a first downward support surface (53, 153a, 253a) arranged between the complementary attachment members.

[0108] In a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the ski binding, the method comprises;

- placing the ski shoe inclinedly in the ski binding, wherein the downward support surface rests on the upward support surface in a contact point (14a, 114a), wherein the first complementary attachment element is located under the first attachment element, and

- pivoting the ski shoe about the contact point, so that the first complementary attachment element moves upwards, until it is engaged with the first attachment element.

[0109] In a dependent embodiment, the method comprises bringing the second complementary attachment element downwards in engagement with the second attachment element by pivoting the ski shoe about the contact point.

Detailed description

[0110] The specific embodiment shown in Figs la, lb, lc, Id, 2a, 2b, 2c and 2d will be explained in more detail below.

[0111] In Fig. 2a, the ski shoe is placed obliquely above the binding, before the ski shoe and the binding are in contact with each other. The ski shoe is also placed slightly sideways displaced relative to the ski binding (10), so that the first complementary attachment element (51a) is located within the first side wall (10a).

[0112] In Fig. 2b, the first downward support surface (53a) of the ski shoe (50) rests on the support surface (13a) of the ski binding (10) in a contact point (14a), wherein the ski shoe continues to be inclined. The first complementary attachment element (51a) on the side of the shoe is located under the first attachment element (11a) of the ski binding. In this embodiment, the first complementary attachment element (51a) is a protruding pin, and the first attachment (11a) an upper surface of the binding, e.g. an upper surface in a hole. Furthermore, it rests on the side of the ski shoe (50) inclined downwards towards the inside of the first side wall (10a).

[0113] In Fig. 2c, the ski shoe (50) is pressed further downwards towards the ski binding (10). As the ski shoe (10) is in contact with the binding (50) in the contact point (14a), the ski shoe (10) has now pivoted about the contacts point (14a).

[0114] In Fig. 2d, the ski shoe (50) is pressed completely down towards the ski binding (10), so that the second downward support surface (53b) of the ski shoe (50) rests on the second support surface (13b) of the ski binding (10). The second downward support surface (53b) is on the opposite side of the first downward support surface (53a), and the second support surface (13b) is on the opposite side of the first support surface (13a). The first complementary attachment element (51a) on the first side of the shoe is now located under the first attachment element (11a), and the second complementary attachment element (51b) on the other side of the shoe is now located under the second attachment element (lib). Thus, the ski shoe (50) is locked in the vertical direction relative to the ski binding (10).

[0115] The ski shoe can now pivot about the pivot axis (D), shown in Fig. 2d, where the pivot axis (D) is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, in the centre of the first and the second complementary attachment element (51a, 51b).

[0116] In this embodiment, the first and the second attachment elements (51a, 51b) are realized as spring-loaded pins with laterally outward force. However, it can be observed from the sequence above that it is not necessary to utilize the spring force in the first complementary attachment element (51a), as the shoe is inserted into the binding from the side. The second complementary attachment element (51b) is pressed in, meeting a bevel on the top of the second side wall (10b), as can be seen in e.g. Fig. la, and bounces out, when it comes under the second attachment element (lib), so that the ski shoe (50) is attached in the ski binding (10).

[0117] The first and second side walls (10a, 10b) have holes (16a, 16b) that gradually narrow towards the diameter of the pins, viewed from below and upwards, as shown in Fig. lc.

This means that it is easy to hit the hole that the pin is to enter, as the lowermost pin is located in the broad area of the hole as long as the ski shoe (10) is inclined. See e.g. Fig. 2b. The holes (16a, 16b) can also be drop-shaped.

[0118] The explanation above shows how the ski shoe (10) is attached in the vertical direction. In the longitudinal direction, the ski shoe (50) is locked by the upper part of the holes (16a, 16b) being curved about the pins with a radius corresponding to the radius of the pins. Additionally, the support surfaces (13a, 13b) in a cross section perpendicular to the pivot axis (D) has a concave surface with a radius (r) corresponding to the distance between the pivot axis (D) and the support surfaces (13a, 13b). Correspondingly, the first and the second downward support surfaces (53a, 53b) have a convex surface with the same radius.

[0119] The attachment mechanism (50) itself consists of the first and the second attachment element (151a, 151b) in the form of two spring-loaded pins. The attachment mechanism is configured, so that the pins have good sideways support and can simultaneously move in their longitudinal direction.

[0120] Fig. 3 shows an alternative embodiment of the attachment mechanism (51) and the ski binding (10). Instead of the first and second depressions (15a, 15b) in the ski binding (10), the underside of the attachment mechanism (51) of the ski shoe (50) has a curved, sloping or narrowing surface, i.e. the distance from the underside of the attachment mechanism (51) to the complementary attachment element (51a) is reduced in the direction towards the end (52a) of the attachment mechanism. Then there will be an opening between the ski binding (10) and the attachment mechanism (51) to the side wall (10a), which the ski shoe (50) is locked in the ski binding (10). This means that the ski shoe (50) can be inserted inclinedly into the ski binding (50) with the first complementary attachment element (51a) under the first attachment element (11a), corresponding to Fig. 2a, 2b above, and from this condition is pressed further down to the locked position. Alternatively or additionally, the adjacent wall (55) over the attachment element (51a) can be inwardly inclined or curved, so that the attachment element (51a) can be inserted further into the first attachment element (11a), thereby making it easier to pivot down the opposite end of the attachment mechanism (51). Figs 8a and 8b show a possible embodiment, wherein both the adjacent wall (55) above the attachment element (51a) and the end (52a) of the attachment element are rounded, but, as stated, it is possible to do just one or the other.

[0121] If the insertion is to be carried out with the ski shoe (50) inclined towards one or the other side, the binding can be symmetrical, as shown in Fig. 3.

[0122] Except from the release mechanism in Figs 4a and 4b, the ski bindings (10, 110, 210) and the ski shoe (50, 150) in the first and second specific embodiments are symmetrical. However, they need not be so, if the insertion is to be carried out in the same way every time, e.g. by the ski shoe (50, 150) being inclined relative to the binding (10, 110, 210), so that the first complementary attachment element (51a, 151a) is always located under the first attachment element (11a, 111a, 211a) in the first part of the insertion. In this case, the first complementary attachment element (51a, 151a) needs not be springy.

When the insertion is carried out in this way, the ski shoe (50, 150) will get into the first depression (15a, 115a, 215a), while the second depression (15b, 115b, 215b) is not in use and can be omitted. However, the depressions can have other advantages, such as e.g. preventing show from depositing between the ski binding and the ski shoe, so that it becomes easy to attach the ski shoe. [0123] The attachment mechanism (51, 151) is attached at the tip of the ski shoe (50, 150) as illustrated in Fig. 6.

[0124] The attachment mechanism can have different embodiments internally. Figs 2a to 2d show a symmetrical attachment mechanism with partially independent first and second attachment elements (51a, 51b) in the form of pins protruding on respective sides, wherein the pins are biased with a common spring (55) between them. Each pin has an end stop (54a, 54b) preventing the spring (55) from pressing it out of the attachment mechanism (51). The attachment mechanism (151) in Fig. 4b has a similar implementation. The ski shoe (50, 151) can be pressed down into the ski binding (10, 100) inclinedly one way or another, and the upper pin will be pressed in, as the ski shoe is pressed downwards and pivoted as explained above.

[0125] In Figs 7b shows another embodiment of the attachment mechanism (251), the first and second attachment members (51a, 51b) being a through-going pin, biased by the spring (255) in just one direction. The end stop (254) ensures that the pin is centre aligned, i.e. protrudes equally on either side of the attachment mechanism (251), when the pin is not loaded. In this case, the attachment mechanism is asymmetrical and must be attached in the ski binding, so that the pin (251a), to the left in Fig. 7a, basically is located under the first attachment element (11a, 111a, 211a) in the first part of the insertion.

[0126] In the embodiment in Fig. 7c, the first attachment element (351a) is a fixed pin that is integral with the housing of the attachment mechanism (351). The second attachment element is a pin that is biased over it by the spring (355). The pin has an end stop (354). The attachment mechanism is also asymmetrical here and must be attached in the same manner in the ski binding as explained for the embodiment above.

[0127] In the embodiment in Fig. 7d, the first and second attachment members (51a, 51b) are a through-going pin, like the embodiment in Fig. 7b. However, the pin is biased in both directions with first and seconds springs (455a, 455b), pressing towards a common end stop (354) on the pin, so that the pin can move from a centre position at the top in Fig. 7d, where no external forces are applied, in one or the other direction. In the middle illustration in Fig. 7d, forces are applied on the first attachment element (351), so that the pin is pushed to the right, while in the lowermost illustration in Fig. 7d, forces are applied on the second attachment element (352), so that the pin is pushed to the left. The attachment mechanism in this embodiment is thereby symmetrical, so that the ski shoe in the first part of the insertion can be pivoted one way or the other. [0128] The attachment mechanism (51, 151, 251, 351, 451) can comprise a hollow housing with one or two end portions that lock the spring or the springs and the pin or the pins inside the housing. The end portion or the end portions have through-going holes for the pins. The housing and the end portions can comprise threads, so that the end portions can be screwed into the housing. Alternatively, they can be pressed or glued in place, or attached with a combination of these attachment methods.

[0129] In one embodiment, the housing and the end portions can be made of plastic material or partially of plastic material. The pin can be of a metal material.

[0130] In one embodiment, the ski binding can be made of a plastic material or partially made of a plastic material. It can also be advantageous to combine the use of plastic and metal, as metal parts can be moulded into the plastic material by means of injection moulding. Thereby, an appealing appearance, light weight, few parts and good strength can be obtained.

[0131] In the shown embodiments, which are examples of how to execute the invention, various features and details are shown in combination. Though several features are described as belonging to a certain embodiment, it does not necessarily mean that these features will have to be implemented together in all embodiments of the invention. Likewise, features that have been described in different embodiments should not be considered to be excluding combinations with each other. The skilled person will understand that embodiments that comprise some of the features that are not specifically described together with, but which are not described as being excluded from a combination with each other, is part of the invention. An explicit description of all embodiments will not contribute to the understanding of the concept of the invention, and therefore some of the combinations have been excluded to simplify and shorten the application.

[0132] Figs 9a-9c show an embodiment of an attachment mechanism with a walk surface 56 protruding or projecting down below the cradle surface. The intention of this is to avoid scratches and wear on the cradle surface, so that the pivoting movement in the cradle remains even and fine over time, and moreover, the tolerances do not change. If the cradle surfaces are worn, and the tolerances change, the user may experience this as hacking and eventually loosening.

[0133] Figs lOa-lOe show how the embodiment in Figs 9a-9c can fit into an embodiment of a ski binding. Here it is also clear that there is a gap 57 under the walk surface 56 of the attachment mechanism and the binding. Thus, wear of the walk surface will not affect the pivoting movement in the cradle. It can be useful if the walk surface is exchangeable or made of a softer/flexible or harder material. Figs 6a-6d e.g. show a solution that is integral in a ski sole, where the walk surface 56 in practice is constituted by the ski shoe sole. Figs 9a-9c show a cleat solution 51, wherein the walk surfaces 56 are typically the lowest point under the cleat.

[0134] Figs lla-lle show schematic sketches of how surfaces in the holes and cradle can have various configurations and still be sufficiently firmly fixed. Firstly, the hole or the attachment elements (lla-b) of the ski binding can be what is called bottomless, i.e. that it is drop-shaped, oval, stadium hole-shaped or simply comprises a «grip». This grip can be curved, the curve forming a circle segment with an extension of anything from a few degrees up to 180°. As soon as the attachment mechanism is in place in the cradle or cradles of the ski binding, the pin will be firmly attached. The grip can also be straight if the cradle is curved. In this case, the cradle also constitutes a circle segment, which can have an extent of anything from a few degrees up to 180°. Alternatively, the cradle can be flat or straight if the grip of the bottomless hole is curved. More combinations are possible as long as at least one surface is curved. In practice, it will be advantageous if both the grip of the bottomless hole and the cradle surface are curved. Moreover, it is worth noting that the grip of the bottomless hole and the cradle surface form coaxial support surfaces with the centre in the centre of the pin. These surfaces can be displaced sideways, which is also shown in all embodiments of this text. This displacement enables an inclined insertion and/or release of the attachment mechanism in the ski binding without resulting in slack when the ski shoe is firmly attached in the binding.