초록 ▼

A ski binding release mechanism that includes both an electronic and a mechanical release mechanism. The mechanical release mechanism incorporates a delay feature that allows it to function only if the electronic mechanism experiences a failure. The delay feature is provided by a cylinder movable wi

A ski binding release mechanism that includes both an electronic and a mechanical release mechanism. The mechanical release mechanism incorporates a delay feature that allows it to function only if the electronic mechanism experiences a failure. The delay feature is provided by a cylinder movable with respect to a stationary piston positioned therein, the piston dividing the cylinder into two chambers. Movement of the cylinder, required to release the soleholder of a ski boot, is retarded by the time required to pass liquid in the cylinder from a first of the chambers to a second of the chambers through a choke passage in the piston as the cylinder moves. Movement of the cylinder is caused by a plunger connected to the soleholder of the ski binding that urges against the cylinder under the influence of a sustained, predetermined, potentially hazardous force acting on the binding. A spring may be located within the cylinder to absorb intermittent forces imposed on the cylinder not strong enough to pose a hazard. Resetting of the device may be accelerated through provision of a check valve in the piston that allows the fluid to move back into the second chamber through the valve, as well as through the choke passage.

대표청구항 ▼

A ski binding release mechanism for a ski having dual release functionality comprising: electronic binding release means, and mechanical binding release means, said electronic means and said mechanical means both being simultaneously activated and act upon and thereby adapted to unlatch a bootsole l

A ski binding release mechanism for a ski having dual release functionality comprising: electronic binding release means, and mechanical binding release means, said electronic means and said mechanical means both being simultaneously activated and act upon and thereby adapted to unlatch a bootsole latch of a ski binding incorporating said mechanism when the binding is subjected to a predetermined threshold force in a selected direction, wherein, however, said mechanical release means includes a mechanical delay means providing sufficient time for said electronic release means to function before said mechanical release means can function, so that if said electronic release means fails to function, said mechanical release means functions.