WO2011044067A1 - Foot binding devices - Google Patents

Abstract

A binding which is capable of x- rotation and consists of one or a combination of : a) y-rotation bi-directional support, b) highside support, c) step-ins, d) safety release and/or is capable of a) x-rotation in use and/or during setup, b) y- translation in use and/or during setup, c) z-rotation in use and/or during setup and/or consists of one or a combination of : a) support above the ankle, b) y-rotation bi-directional support, c) highside binding support, d) step-ins, e) attachment method of a boot or foot to the binding, f) safety release and/or is capable of a) x-rotation in use and/or during setup, b) z-rotation in use and/or during setup and consists of one or a combination of a) support above the ankle, b) y-rotation bi-directional support, c) highside binding support, d) step-ins, e) attachment method of a boot or foot to the binding, f) safety release.

Description

BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[1] For the background on board design, a human body model is used for illustration. A basic model is used that does not have realistic features but realistic dimensions and motion. The body parts on the model are labeled (Figure l ).

[2] Three standard planes are defined for the human model: sagittal, coronal, and transverse. The sagittal plane divides the body into sinister and dexter (left and right) portions (XZ plane). The coronal or frontal plane divides the body into dorsal and ventral (back and front, or posterior and anterior) portions (YZ plane). The transverse plane or axial plane divides the body into cranial and caudal (head and tail) portions (XY plane). The planes are shown (Figure 2).

[3] Cartesian axes are established using the standard body coordinate system used in human kinematics. The positive X axis runs from the posterior to anterior. The positive Y axis runs from the left to right. The positive Z axis runs from the feet to head. The origin is left undefined for the body, and axes are used only for specifying direction. When referring to rotation generally, "rotation about Y axis" means rotation about any axis parallel to the Y axis. This would also be rotation in the XZ plane. All rotations use the right hand rule. Axes are shown (Figure 2).

[4] Planes, axes, directions, and rotation of the board are taken by the user's position on the board in the most basic stance. The Y axis runs along the length of the board. The X axis runs along the width of the board. The Z axis runs along the thickness of the board. Typical dimensions for the length, width, and thickness of the board are 60", 12", and 1 " respectively. The most basic stance for a rider on the board is shown (Figure 3). For illustration a wakeboard is shown, but ideas presented are applicable to but not limited to snowboards, water skis, snow skis, kite boards, other sport boards, and non-board applications requiring binding of a user's foot.

[5] The simple stance on the board is not practical for use. A more realistic stance on the board is shown (Figure 4). Additionally adjustments such as rotation of the feet about the Z axis direction are commonly done.

[6] A less important distinction to make are the two board stances "regular" and "goofy" foot. The difference between the two stances is the leading foot of the rider when the board is in use. "Regular" foot is when the rider leads with the left foot (Figure 4) and "goofy" foot is when the rider leads with the right foot (Figure 5). The axes do not change when discussing goofy foot stance. All further discussion will use regular stance unless otherwise noted.

[7] The board has edges that are used to control the board. The snow- and wakeboard edges engage the snow or water. Edges are used to control the travel of the board. Along the long edges of the board are the toe and heal edge, and along the short edge, of the board are the nose and tail edges. The edges of the board are shown (Figure 6). An isometric (Figure 7), top (Figure 8), right (Figure 9), and front (Figure 10) view of the board are shown.

[8] An important distinction to be made in the design of bindings is when adjustments of the binding can be made. The simplest method for attaching the binding to the board is to attach the binding so the length of the foot is perpendicular to the length of the board.

[9] An adjustment in most bindings allows rotation about the Z axis. This allows the rider to position his feet in a "duck feet" or "pigeon feet" position. Commonly the rider angles both feet so his toes point downhill in a "race feet" position so named because of its common use in downhill alpine racing. The bindings can be designed to allow other adjustments. Distinction between when the device is in "use" verses "setup" has to be established. The difference is in when these adjustments can be made by the user. With current designs, adjustments of z-rotation can only be made during setup. Z-rotation in use has been publicly proposed but is not used.

[10] An example of a common design used in wakeboard bindings for z-rotation adjustment during setup uses holes of a constant radius with angular separation with screws through two of the holes to set the angle of z-rotation. In snowboard bindings, two plates with radial teeth are often used for angular adjustment. When the screws holding the binding to the board are tightened, the z-rotation angle of the binding is set. These types of adjustments are made during setup and often involve removing a screw, moving a plate, and resetting the screw. Often the adjustments require additional tools, and they cannot be made when the binding is in use.

[11] Interfacing the board with the user requires at least one device and may use second optional device. The required device is a binding, and the optional device is a boot. The binding is a device that interfaces the user with the board and remains attached to the board during use and setup. The boot is tied the user's foot, attaches to the binding during use, and detaches during setup.

[12] The two essential functions that are needed are to secure the foot to the board and provide support against rotation about the Y axis direction between the user's leg and the board. Rotating the board about the Y axis gives control of turn since the rider uses the Y axis edges to make turns. Any support that is not supplied by the binding or the boot but needed for a turn has to be supplied by the rider's leg muscles, which increases exertion and fatigue.

[13] When a binding but no boot is used, the binding performs both of the essential functions. This setup is the common design for wakeboards. Some wakeboard designs use a binding and boot, but it is not common.

[14] When a binding and boot are used, the binding secures the foot to the board. The support against rotation about the Y axis direction is provided by the binding or the boot. Boot and binding systems are much more commonly used in snowboarding where the boot provides the additional benefit of thermal insulation. The standard design in snowboarding is a soft boot and a binding .that provides support against rotation about the Y axis direction between the user's leg and the board. This allows the boot to be and therefore them more comfortable to walk in than rigid ski boots. A less common design is a rigid ski boot that provides support against rotation about the Y axis direction. In this system, the binding only provides attachment of the boot to the board. A manufacturer of this rigid boot design is Catek.

[15] Until this point, distinction has been made between the boot and the binding. For the rest of the document, the binding and the optional boot will be referred to collectively as the binding because of its function of binding the user to the board.

[16] Rotation and translation of the user relative to the board are desirable in some directions and undesirable in other directions. Rotation and translation can be free or limited. Limited rotation means the user is not able to rotate a full 360°, and limited translation means, the user is not able, to move an infinite amount. Current bindings are limited in rotation and translation. Improvement can be made to increase the rotational and translational freedom of the bindings. It is foreseeable that too much freedom could make the board difficult to control. For example free y-translation in both bindings could be undesirable. Instead, a large limited range in y-translation in one of bindings and no translation in the other binding could be desirable.

[17] Generally a free range of x-rotation is desirable. X-rotation is not used in controlling the board during turns. X-rotation is used by the rider to balance nose to tail on the board. X-rotation is also used when performing tricks, including grabs in the air. Free motion allows the rider to bend down more easily when grabbing the board.

[18] An illustration of rider and board with x-rotational freedom in a neutral position is shown (Figure 1 1 ). With x-rotational freedom, the rider can lean towards the tail of the board (Figure 12) or the front of the board (Figure 13).

[19] Patent 4856808 was the first to suggest x-rotation in a board binding with a pivot system and z-rotation adjustments. Patent 5172924 put forth x-rotation achieved with a flexible binding. Patents 5813688, 5803467, 5971419, 5992861 , 5813689, 5855390, and 7059614 and patent application publications US 2003/0090072 A l and US 2004/0169351 Al suggest x-rotation in binding. Patents 5713587, 5967531 , and 6578865 propose x-rotation in the highback of a binding. Patents 5401041 , 6209229, 5771609, 5891072, 6076287, 66631 18, 6138384, 6082026, and 7210252 propose x-rotation in the boot. Patents 6168173 and 6450525 and patent application publications US 2001/0017453 Al propose x-rotation with a flexible boot.

[20] Patent 6123342 describes highside and high back support elements in the bindings to provide uni- or bi-directional support of the user's leg. Patent 652051 1 and 6773020 describe a support element in the bindings high and on the side of the user's leg to provide uni-directional support of the user's leg.

[21] Support that is above the rider's ankle and on the side of the leg will be referred to as highside.

[22] A limited range of y-translation is desirable. Y-translation allows the rider to balance on the board in the nose-to-tail direction. Y-translation also helps with grabs and tricks.

[23] A side view of a rider in a neutral y-translation stance is shown (FIG. 14). An illustration is shown of a rider with the leading foot translated toward the tail of the board (FIG. 15) and toward the nose of the board (FIG 16).

[24] Patents 4403785, 4871337, 5810370, 6015161 , 6189899, 6089581 , 6786502, 9768955, 6461210, 6641 162, 6779810, 6910706, 10470839, 7059614, 7300070, 1 1825652, 1 1825658, and 9755979 and patent application publications US 200901 1 1079 Al , US 200901 1 1078 Al , US 20050248129 Al , US 20040046362 A l , US 2003/0090072 A l , and US 2004/0169351 A l propose y-translation, and many also propose z-rotation in combination with y-translation.

[25] The most critical motion for using the board is y-rotation. Y-rotation allows the rider to turn (a.k.a. carve) with the board. An illustration of a rider in the neutral position for y-rotation is shown (FIG. 17).

[26] The rider achieves y-rotation by leaning forward or back. As the rider leans, the binding transmits rotation torque on the board. The torque causes the board to rotate about the Y-axis. As one of the edges of the board increasingly engages the riding medium, the board turns toward that edge. When the rider leans backward, the heel edge engages more than the toe edge, and the rider turns to the left (FIG. 18). When the rider leans forward, the toe edge engages more than the heel edge, and the rider turns to the right (FIG. 19).

[27] The binding performs an important role in transmitting the torque from the rider to the board. Rigid support the rider against y-rotation is generally desirable. Support has previously been achieved with highbacks, rigid boots, and bi-directional support. A small range of motion and shock absorbing may also be desirable about the Y-axis.

[28] Bindings with rigid support have a neutral position. Adjustment of the neutral position is a common feature in bindings. The neutral position should be located so the rider is close to the position needed to maintain balance and control of the board.

[29] A small range of motion about the Y-axis can be desirable. The range of motion allows the rider to shift their weight and maintain balance on the board without applying a torque that causes the edges to engage and the board to turn. The range of motion should not be so large that the user doesn't have support for turning. [30] Shock absorbing elements have also been proposed for y-rotation supports. These elements are usually targeted more at snowboards where the board can chatter across an icy surface when making a turn. Elastic and/or dampening elements can be incorporated into the y- rotation support.

[31] In snowboards, the most common support against y-rotation is the highback. Highbacks are part of the binding that extend along the back of the leg and above the user's ankle. By extending above the ankle, the highback supports the lower leg. This support eases the strain on the muscles in the lower leg that are responsible for maintaining the angle between the lower leg and foot. Highback can greatly improve a binding. When the rider makes a heel-side turn, the binding provides rigid support. The shortcoming of highback is that they are uni-directional. On a toe-edge turn the highback does not provide any support of the rider's leg. An improved design is bi-directional support of the leg.

[32] Support against y-rotation could also be provided by a support running up the front of the rider's leg above the ankle. This support is a highfront.

[33] Bi-directional support of the rider's leg has been proposed. Patent 5636455 proposed adding a support element on the back side of the boot for uni-directional support and a strap from the back side of the boot wrapped around the front to provide bi-directional support. Patent 6283495 Figure l a depicts a binding with a strap on a highback for providing bi-directional support. Without of support in the binding against y-rotation, the support has to be provided by the boot or the user's leg.

[34] Rigid boots ski boots can also be used for y-rotation support. Ski boot bindings have been manufactured for snowboards. Catak manufactures bindings for snowboards that will accept a ski boot. With this design, the support is in the boot instead of the binding. This is less desirable than having the support in the binding since the boot has to be more rigid and becomes difficult to walk in when the board is not in use.

[35] Z-rotation can be desirable in a binding. The additional freedom allows the user to adjust their feet comfortably on the board and aid in grabs and tricks. A binding can have x-rotation and z-rotation. Looking from the board to the user, when the x-rotation occurs after the z-rotation, as the rider rotates their leg away from the neutral z-rotation position, they lose the ability to exert force to make a turn until at 90°, and lose all control.

[36] A top view of a rider (FIG. 20) and the rider's feet (FIG 21) in a neutral z-rotation stance are shown. A "duck" stance is shown of the rider (FIG. 22) and the rider's feet (FIG. 23). A "pigeon" stance is shown of the rider (FIG. 24) and the rider's feet (FIG. 25). A racing stance, which is typically used for alpine snowboard racing, is shown (FIG. 26). [37] Secure attachment of the user to the binding is important. The method should effectively transmit forces needed to control the board while minimizing and distributing the force on the rider. Two general categories, straps and step-ins, have been shown to be effective in attaching a rider to a board while a third category, latching hinge, has been gaining popularity with wakeboard bindings.

[38] Straps are strong and flexible pieces of material that hold the user or boot to the binding. Straps often have a tightening mechanism such as a ratchet or latch. Straps are comfortable since they can be made wide and flexible to contour to the shape of the user. Both of these characteristics increase the surface area between the strap and the user and decrease the pressure on the user. The downside to straps is that the user has to tighten them with their hand. This can be time consuming especially when the users has to sit on the ground to strap in.

[39] Step-ins are an improvement over time consuming strap-ins by allowing the user to engage the binding with a stepping or twisting motion. In general, a step-in is a binding where the user can engage the binding using forces from their foot or leg. A common design is one or more latches on the binding with corresponding pieces on the boot. The rider positions themselves in the binding then uses their weight to push downward and engage the latch. Step- ins are also possible without a boot. A moveable plate could be used to engage the user with the binding. Release from a step-in is usually accomplished with a release lever that is operated by the rider's hand.

[40] A newer design gaining popularity in wakeboard bindings is a hinge with a latching mechanism. The back of the binding is hinged so that it is able to rotate. The latch allows the user to engage and disengage the binding. The latch is quicker to operate than ratcheting one or more straps.

[41] A safety release mechanism can be incorporated into a binding. The design can be simply a binding that allows the foot to slip out when high forces are applied, such as commonly used in water ski bindings. The design can also be more complicated such as spring latch systems that hold the boot in place until a preset amount of force causes the binding to release, such as systems used for snow ski bindings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[42] FIG I - front view of the human model. l :right shoulder, 2:right upper arm, 3: right elbow, 4: right lower arm, 5: right wrist, 6: right hand, 7: right upper leg, 8: right knee, 9: right lower leg, I 0: right ankle, 1 1 : right foot, I 2:left shoulder, 13:left upper arm, 14: left elbow, 15: left lower arm, 16: left wrist, 17: left hand, 18: left upper leg, 19: left knee, 20: left lower leg, 21 : left ankle, 22: left foot, 23: head, 24: chest, 25: pelvis. FIG 2 - isometric view of the human model and the sagittal, coronal, and transverse planes. 1 : sagittal (XY), 2:coronal (YZ), 3: transverse (XY). 1 : sagittal (XY), 2:coronal (YZ), 3: transverse (XY). FIG 3 - isometric view of the human model and a board in a neutral stance. 1 : X-axis edge (tail), 2: Y-axis edge (heel), 3: X-axis edge (nose), 4: Y-axis edge (toe) , 5: direction of travel. FIG 4 - isometric view of the human model in a natural regular riding stance. FIG 5 - isometric view of the human model in a goofy stance. FIG 6 - top view of a board with edges labeled. FIG 7 - isometric view of the board. FIG 8 - top view of the board. FIG 9 - side view of the board. FIG 10 - front view of the board. FIG 1 1 - side view of a rider in a neutral x-rotation stance. FIG 12 - side view of a rider leaning toward the tail of the board. FIG 13 - side view of a rider leaning toward the nose of the board. FIG 14 - side view of a rider in a neutral y-translation stance. FIG 15 - side view of a rider y-translating their leading foot toward the tail of the board. FIG 16 - side view of a rider y- translating their leading foot toward the nose of the board. FIG 17 - front view of a rider in a neutral y-rotation stance. FIG 18 - front view of a rider y-rotating onto the heel edge of the board. FIG 19 - front view of a rider y-rotating onto the toe edge of the board. FIG 20 - top view of a rider in a neutral z-rotation stance. FIG 21 - top view of a rider's feet in a neutral z-rotation stance. FIG 22 - top view of a rider with the leading foot z-rotated in a "duck" stance. FIG 23 - top view of a rider's feet with the both feet z-rotated in a "duck" stance. FIG 24 - top view of a rider with the leading foot z-rotated in a "pigeon" stance. FIG 25 - top view of a rider's feet with the both- feet z-rotated in a "pigeon" stance. FIG 26 - top view of a rider's feet in a typical racing stance. FIG 27 - view of realistic board and bindings. l :rear binding, 2:front binding, 3: board, 4:DI ECTION OF TRAVEL (regular). FIG 28 - view of realistic bindings. 1 : highback, 2:ladder ratchets, 3:ladder ratchet straps, 4: board. FIG 29 - view of a ratchet, ratchet lever, 2:strap guide, 3: pivot, 4:ratchet teeth. FIG 30 - two views of a ladder ratchet strap. 1 : teeth , 2: attachment hole. FIG 31 - view of a x-rotation binding with a highback. 1 : highback, 2:foot plate sides, 3:foot plate, 4:pivot point, 5: board. FIG 32 - front view of a x-rotation binding with a highback. l :board, 2:foot plate, 3: highback, 4:pivot point. FIG 33 - view of a x-rotation binding with a highback and bi-directional strap. 1 :strap providing bi-directional support. FIG 34 - view of a x-rotation binding with a highfront and bi-directional strap. 1 :strap providing bi-directional support, 2: highfront providing y-rotation support. FIG 35 - view of a x-rotation binding with a highback and highsides. 1 : highsides. FIG 36 - dimetric view of a y-translation, z-rotation, and x- rotation binding in a neutral position. 1 : highback, 2:foot plate (no sides), 3:y-translation i-beam rail, 4:xrrotation rockers, 5: board. FIG 37 - dimetric view of a binding y-translated 4 inches off neutral position. FIG 38 - dimetric view of a binding z-rotated 45° off neutral position. FIG 39 - dimetric view of a binding x-rotated 45° off neutral position. FIG 40 - dimetric view of a binding y-translated 4 inches, z-rotated 45°, and x-rotated 45° off neutral position. FIG 41 - dimetric view of a y-translation rail and z-rotation threaded connection. l :threaded connection, 2:y-translation i-beam rail, 3: board. FIG 42 - front view of a z-rotation threaded connection. 1 threaded connection. FIG 43 - dimetric view of a z-rotation threaded connection in a neutral position. FIG 44 - dimetric view of a threaded connection z-rotated 45° from a neutral position. FIG 45 - dimetric view of a z-rotation pin connection in a neutral position. l :z-rotation pin. FIG 46 - dimetric view of a pin connection z-rotated 45° from a neutral position. FIG 47 - dimetric view of a cross-section of a pin connection. 1 :z-rotation pin. FIG 48 - dimetric view of a y-translation slide with rotational sliding surface. 1 :pin or screw, 2: u-channel, 3:rollers. FIG 49 - bottom view of a -translation slide with rotational sliding surface. l :pin or screw, 2:u-channel, 3: rollers. FIG 50 - diametric view a binding with a y-translation slide with rotational sliding surface. 1 : highback, 2: foot plate (no sides), 3: slider, 4: i-beam, 5: board. FIG 51 - cut-away view of the binding in FIG 50 focusing on the y-translation slide with rotational sliding surface. 1 :foot plate (no sides), 2:pin or screw, 3: i-beam, 4: u-channel, 5: rollers. FIG 52 - isometric view of a wakeboard simulator with utilizing rocker arms. 1 : rocker, 2: wakeboard. FIG 53 - view of a wakeboard simulator with utilizing rocker arms. 1 : rocker curve, 2: rocker horizontal support, 3: rocker curve, 4: wakeboard. FIG 54 - intentionally left blank. FIG 55 - Isometric view of adjustable length linkage, 1 threaded eyebolts, 2:hex nut, 3:hex bolt, 4:rigid pipe, 5:threaded connection. FIG 56 - Isometric view of a threaded bolt's attachment to rigid pipe. l :rigid pipe , 2:threaded connection, 3 threaded eyebolts. FIG 57 - Isometric view of lengthened linkage via course adjustment. 1 ourse adjustment (lengthened) . FIG 58 - Isometric view of lengthened linkage via fine adjustment. l :fine adjustment (lengthened). FIG 59 - Isometric view of shortened linkage via fine adjustment. 1 :fine adjustment (shortened). FIG 60 - Isometric view of x-rot linkage between bindings (x-rot: centered, link length baseline). l :x-rot linkage, 2:binding base plate, 3:binding highback, 4: board. FIG 61 - Isometric view of linked binding off centered (x-rot: right, link length baseline), shifted to the right (relative to rider). FIG 62 - Isometric view of linked binding off centered (x-rot: left, link length baseline). . FIG 63 - Isometric view of long linked binding (x-rot: centered, link length long). 1 :fine adjustment (lengthened). FIG 64 - Isometric view of short linked binding (x-rot: centered, link length short). l :fine adjustment (lengthened). FIG 65 - Isometric view of linked bindings rotated inwards about z (x-rot: centered, link length long). FIG 66 - Isometric view of linked bindings rotated inwards about z (x-rot: right, link length long), hshifted to the right (relative to rider). FIG 67 - Isometric view of linked bindings rotated inwards about z (x-rot: left, link length long). l :shifted to the left (relative to rider). FIG 68 - Isometric view of bindings linked by a chain (x-rot: centered, link length baseline), hlinked by chain. FIG 69 - Isometric view of bindings linked by a chain (x-rot: right, link length baseline). 1 :shifted to the right (relative to rider). FIG 70 - Isometric view of bindings linked by a chain (x-rot: left, link length baseline), hshifted to the right (relative to rider). FIG 71 - Isometric view of bindings linked by chain able to rotate inward (x-rot: centered (R)/right (L), link length: baseline). l :left binding able to move inward due to chain flexibility in compression. FIG 72 - Isometric view of one binding linked to the board (x-rot: centered, y- trans: centered) 1 :x-rotation pivot. FIG 73 - Isometric view of one binding linked to the board (x- rot: left, y-trans: right) 1 :x-rotation to the left. FIG 74 - Isometric view of one binding linked to the board (x-rot: left, y-trans: right) 1 : x-rotation to the right. FIG 75 - Isometric view of focused on binding linked to the board. 1 :upper body rotatable about z-axis (closer to binding), 2:base plate, 3: highback, 4:y-translation slide, 5:y-translation rail. FIG 76 - Isometric view of focused on binding linked to the board with base plate and highback removed. l :upper body rotatable about z-axis (closer to binding), 2:lower body stationary (closer to board), 3: y-translation slide, 4:y-translation rail. FIG 77 - Isometric view of locking z-rotation (y-rot: centered, z-rot: centered) l :upper body rotatable about z-axis (closer to binding), 2: teeth, 3:lower body stationary (closer to board). FIG 78 - Isometric view of locking z-rotation (y-rot: centered, z-rot: left). FIG 79 - Isometric view of locking z-rotation (y-rot: centered, z-rot: right). FIG 80 - Isometric view of locked z-rotation by y-rotation forward (y-rot: forward, z-rot: centered) hengaged teeth. FIG 81 - Isometric view of locked z-rotation by y-rotation backward (y-rot: backward, z-rot: centered) 1 :engaged teeth. FIG 82 - Cross sectional isometric view of unlocked z-rotation with threshold spring (y-rot: centered, z-rot: centered) 1 : upper body rotatable about z- axis (closer to binding), 2: spring, 3: screw, 4: teeth, 5:lower body stationary (closer to board). FIG 83 - Cross sectional front view of unlocked z-rotation with threshold spring (y-rot: centered, z-rot: centered) l :upper body rotatable about z-axis (closer to binding), 2: spring, 3: screw, 4: teeth, 5:lower body stationary (closer to board). FIG 84 - Isometric view of unlocked y- translation (y-rot: centered, y-translation: centered) 1 : teeth, 2:y-translation to the right, 3:y- translation rail, 4:y-translation slide. FIG 85 - Cross sectional isometric view of y-translation slide showing teeth which engage with rail. l :teeth on slide, 2:y-translation slide. FIG 86 - Isometric view of unlocked y-translation (y-rot: centered, y-translation: right) I : y-translation to the right. FIG 87 - Isometric view of unlocked y-translation (y-rot: centered, y-translation: left) 1 :y-translation to the left. FIG 88 - Isometric view of locked y-translation by forward y-rotation (y-rot: forward, y-translation: centered) 1 :teeth locked on backside. FIG 89 - Isometric view of locked y-translation by backward y-rotation (y-rot: forward, y-translation: centered) l :teeth locked on frontside. FIG 90 - Isometric view of x rotation non-adjustable limit plate (x-rot: 0°, limits: +45 -45°) 1 baseplate sides, 2: baseplate, 3: x-rotation limiter plate, 4: x-rot, 5:plate attached to board, 6: bolt , 7: x-rotation pin. FIG 91 - Isometric view of x rotation non-adjustable limit plate (x-rot: 1 °, limits: +457-45°). FIG 92 - Isometric view of x rotation non-adjustable limit plate (x-rot: 45°, limits: +457-45°) l :bolt engaged with limiter plate. FIG 93 - Isometric view of x rotation non-adjustable limit plate (x-rot: -45°, limits: +457-45°) l :bolt engaged with limiter plate. FIG 94 - Isometric view of x rotation adjustable limit plates (x-rot: 0°, limits: +07- 15°) l :rubber bumper, 2:x-rotation limiter plate ( +x ), 3:plate attached to board, 4: bolt, 5:x- rotation limiter plate ( -x ), 6:x-rotation pin, 7: baseplate, 8:baseplate sides. FIG 95 - Isometric view of x rotation adjustable limit plates (x-rot: - 15°, limits: +07-15°) l :base plate engaged with limiter plate. FIG 96 - Isometric view of x rotation adjustable limit plates (x-rot: 0°, limits: +307- 45°) l :+x limit adjusted, 2:-x limit adjusted. FIG 97 - Isometric view of x rotation adjustable limit plates (x-rot: -45°, limits: +307-45°) l :base plate engaged with limiter plate. FIG 98 - Isometric view of x rotation adjustable limit plates (x-rot: +30°, limits: +307-45°). FIG 99 - Isometric view of z rotation linked with bevel gears and shaft (z-rot: 0°). 1 : snowboard, 2:large bevel gear, 3:small bevel gear, 4: shaft, 5: baseplate, 6: highback, 7:large bevel gear. FIG 100 - Isometric view of z rotation linked with bevel gears and shaft (right binding rotated to show gear). 1 : snowboard, 2:large bevel gear, 3:small bevel gear, 4: shaft, 5: baseplate, 6: highback, 7:large bevel gear. FIG 101 - Isometric view of close up of z rotation linked with bevel gears and shaft (right binding rotated to show gear), large bevel gear, 2:small bevel gear, 3: shaft, 4: baseplate. FIG 102 - Isometric view of z rotation linked with bevel gears and shaft (z-rot: 45° outward). FIG 103 - Isometric view of z rotation linked with bevel gears and shaft (z-rot: 45° inward). FIG 104 - X-rotation over z-rotation configuration (Fig 1 of patent 4856808). See original patent for description. FIG 105 - X-rotation over z-rotation configuration (Fig 1 of patent 4403785). See original patent for description. FIG 106 - Z-rotation over x-rotation configuration, (default position) 1 : z-rotation, 2: x-rotation, 3: highback, 4:base plate (transparent). FIG 107 - Z-rotation over x-rotation configuration, (x-rotation). FIG 108 - Z- rotation over x-rotation configuration, (z-rotation). FIG 109 - Z-rotation over x-rotation configuration, (close up of hinges) l :hex bolt z-rotation, 2: hex bolt (x-rotation), 3:base plate (cutaway). FIG 1 10 - Previously identified axes of rotation achieved with one joint. FIG 1 1 1— Previously identified axes of rotation achieved with one or two joints. FIG 1 12 - Previously identified lines of translation achieved through one translational joint. FIG 1 13 - Front view of double action hinging binding. 1 : stops, 2:hex bolt rotation 20° off x-axis in XY plane, 3:tail of board, 4: highback, 5:base plate, 6:hex bolt x-rotation, 7: rail, 8: spacer. FIG 1 14 - Dimetric view of double action hinging binding (neutral rotation). 1 : highback, 2:base plate, 3:tail of board, 4:hex bolt x-rotation, 5: rail, 6:spacer. FIG 1 15 - Dimetric view of double action hinging binding (x-rotation). 1 : highback, 2:base plate, 3:tail of board, 4:hex bolt x-rotation, 5: rail, 6:spacer, 7: stops. FIG 1 16 - Dimetric view of double action hinging binding (off axis rotation). 1 : highback, 2:base plate, 3:tail of board, 4:hex bolt x-rotation, 5: rail, 6:spacer, 7: stops, 8:hex bolt rotation 20° off x-axis in XY plane. FIG 1 17 - Dimetric view of closed loop of 4 bar linkage (neutral location) 1 : board, 2:hex bolt (4x front & back), 3:base plate, 4: highback, 5:bars (4x front & back), 6:mounts (2x front & back). FIG 1 18 - Dimetric view of closed loop of 4 bar linkage (shifted to the left). FIG 1 19 - Dimetric view of closed loop of 4 bar linkage (shifted to the right). FIG 120 - FIG 1 from patent 5810370 with labeled joints and links. 1 rjoint #2 pin in slot allows translation and rotation, 2:link #1 board and slots, 3: link # 1 board and slots, 4:joint #1 pin in slot allows translation and rotation, 5: link #2 base plate. FIG 121 - View of closed loop of equal length 4 bar linkage design (neutral location). There are two 4 link systems one near the toe of the binding and one near the heel, kbase plate, 2:mounts (2x front & back) connected to base plate, 3:countersunk screw with nylon locking nut (4x front & back), 4: highback, 5:bottom plate, 6: board, 7:bars (2x front & back), 8:mounts (2x front & back) connected to board. FIG 122 - View of link #4 in equal length 4 bar linkage design (neutral location). FIG 123 - View of link #3 in equal length 4 bar linkage design plus screws (neutral location). FIG 124 - View of link #2 in equal length 4 bar linkage design plus screws (neutral location). FIG 125 - View of link # 1 in equal length 4 bar linkage design (neutral location). FIG 126 - View of closed loop of equal length 4 bar linkage design (rotated). FIG 127 - View of closed loop of equal length 4 bar linkage design (rotated). FIG 128 - View of simplified equal length 4 bar linkage design. Pin 1 connects link 2 and link 4. Pin 2 connects link 1 and link 2. Pin 3 connects link 3 and link 4. Pin 4 connects link 1 and link 3. Links 2 and 3 are straight links. Links 1 and 4 are straight with a hump for clearance around links 2 and 3. l :link 1, 2:link 2, 3: link 3, 4:link 4, 5: pinl, 6: pin 2. FIG 129 - View of simplified equal length 4 bar linkage (rotated) l :link 1 , 2:link 2, 3: link 3, 4:link 4, 5: pinl , 6: pin 2, 7: not used, 8: pin 4. FIG 130 - View of simplified equal length 4 bar linkage (rotated) Llink I , 2:link 2, 3: link 3, 4:link 4, 5: pin l , 6: pin 2, 7: pin 3. FIG 131 - A illustration of a cylindrical joint take from http:// en.wikipedia.org/ wiki/ File:CylindricaIJoint.svg. FIG 132 - A illustration of a ball joint take from http:// upload.wikimedia.org/ wikipedia en/0/0f/ Balljoint_cross_section.jpg. FIG 133 - A illustration of a universal joint take from http:// en.wikipedia.org/ wiki/ File:Universal Joint.gif. FIG 134 - A illustration of a pin in slot joint take from http:// www.me.cmu.edu/ academics/ courses/ NSF_Edu_Proj/ Statics_Solidworks/ PLANARJOINTS.htm. FIG 135 - A illustration of a prismatic joint take from http:// www.soton.ac.uk/ -rmc l/ robotics/ arprisj.gif. 1 : sliding link, 2: fixed link. FIG 136 - A illustration of a cam joint take from http:// en.wikipedia.org/ wiki/ File:Nockenwelle_ani.gif. FIG 137 - View of binding with parabolic path motion in YZ plane, kbase plate, 2: highback, 3:parabolic rail, 4: board, 5:rockers (2x). FIG 138 - Dimetric view of double action hinging binding (board pulled away from rider). 1 : stops, 2:base plate, 3: highback, 4: rail, 5:hex bolt x-rotation, 6: tail of board. FIG 139 - Elevated front view of EL4BL design with label zone of stability and instability for a force in the negative z-direction located in the center of the board's width and higher on the z-axis than the axes of rotation for various positions along the y-axis. l :force position along y axis, 2:zone of instability, 3:zone of stability. FIG 140 - View of binding with zone of stability achieve with a bent rail. l :base plate, 2: highback, 3:y-translation slide, 4:y-translation rail, 5: spacer. FIG 141 - Same view orientation as FIG 86 of binding with zone of stability achieve with a bent rail (rail and board only, binding not shown). l :path of y-translational rail highlighted, 2: spacers, 3:y-translation rail. FIG 142 - Tactile indicator of x-rotation. 1 : rod, 2:board, 3:spring applying pressure to leg through rod, 4: leg, 5:tip of rod pressing against leg, 6: foot. FIG 143 - Drawing of detent ball. Taken from Machine Tool Design Handbook - Page 209. Central Machine Tool Institute - 1982 - 955 pages. FIG 144 - intentionally left blank.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[43] Several characteristics have been identified for as useful for a foot binding device. These characteristics are listed below. Concept 1 : Limited or free rotation and/or translation in one or more of the X, Y, and Z direction (in use or during setup). Concept 2: Support (uni- or bidirectional) against rotation and/or translation in one or more of the X, Y, and Z direction. Concept 3: Adjustable neutral position for any rotation and/or translation in one or more of the X, Y, and Z direction (in use or during setup). Concept 4: Limited range of motion for any rotation and/or translation in one or more of the X, Y, and Z direction. Concept 5: Shock absorbing in any rotation and/or translation in one or more of the X, Y, and Z direction. Concept 6: User attachments: straps, step-ins, latching hinge. Concept 7: Safety release mechanisms. These characteristics may be used individually or in combination with one another and any other concept presented in this application. Generally any concept presented in this document is independent and can be used in combination with any other concept.

[44] All of the aforementioned characteristics can be used individually or in combination with one another. Some uses of individual and combinations of these characteristics have been previously proposed and some have not.

[45] Recent developments in binding design are allowing for greater freedom of motion in board bindings. This freedom allows for greater maneuverability and allows for improvements such as easier shifting of weight on the board, more rigid support used for carving, and flexibility when performing grabs for freestyle riders. Although there are benefits gained with additional freedom, excessive freedom or unrestrained motion can also be detrimental. Extravagant freedom could increase the chance of injury. It may also work against the rider, requiring more exertion to ride the board.

[46] As a general term motion will be taken to mean all motion including translation, rotation, and arbitrary motion. With a binding which allows for free motion, four restrictors have been identified. They are fixing motion, limiting the range of motion, elastic restriction of motion, and vicious restriction of motion. Adjustment of these restrictors can often be desired. Adjustment maybe made infrequently such as at the time of purchase or once a season. These adjustments would be made to match the rider. Factors such as weight, height, or riding style could influence how these adjustments are set. Adjustments may also be made frequently such as between snowboarding down a hill and riding the lift back up. Putting on or taking off a ratchet strap on snowboard bindings would be an example of this type of adjustment. Another example of this frequent change is a binding which has free x-rotational freedom. While boarding down the hill, the rider allows the binding to freely rotate. Once they reach the bottom of the hill, they want the x-rotation to be locked for skating to the ski lift and riding it back up the hill. This could be accomplished by a system which locks the x-rotation of one binding when the boot is taken out of the other binding (automatic). Alternatively, a quick cam lever could be used to engage a system which fixes the x-rotation (quick). After riding the lift back to the top, the rider prepares to ride down the hill disengaged the cam lever or by placing the boot back into the opposite binding.

[47] There exist different types of restriction and motion restriction adjustments. Fixing motion prevents motion in that direction. The fixing provides a large force which counters any force exerted by the rider on the binding in the direction being fixed. Some of the possible methods of performing fixing are but not limited to pin and hole, interlocking plates (Fig 23), high friction plates, and threaded connectors. Pin is used generally in this document to refer to a fastener which prevent sheer. Devices include pins, dowels, rivets, screws, nails, etc. A pin and hole configuration uses holes in the stationary and moveable bodies. A pin or other body fits into one hole on the stationary body and a complementary hole on the moveable body preventing motion between the stationary and movable bodies. Interlocking plates use irregular surfaces. By holding the plates such that the irregular surface are mated together, relative motion is prevented. The plates used commonly in snowboard bindings to allow for setup z-rotation are an example of interlocking plates used to fix motion. Interlocking teeth prevent rotation. High friction plates may also be used. These plates prevent motion by exerting a large force creating static friction. They can use high friction materials such as rubber. Large forces are exerted on the frictional surface to generate the static friction needed to prevent motion. This fixing method is similar to the interlocking plates in that both rely on mechanical friction to at least some degree. Interlocking plates rely solely on mechanical force while friction plates can rely on mechanic and chemical forces. Interlocking fixing have designed surface features where frictional locking only doesn't have any large surface features and rely on surface roughness. Threaded connectors can be used to fix motion. These also allow for fixing the adjusted. Consider a threaded rod which is fixed along y-translation. A carriage is connected to the rod through a threaded hole. The rod fixes the y-translation. By rotating the threaded rod, the position of the carriage along the y direction can be adjusted.

[48] Limited range of motion allows for motion within the permitted range but doesn't allow motion outside of the range. Some of the possible methods used to limit the range of the motion are stops, bumpers, pin and hole, clamps, interlocking surfaces, and threaded connectors. Fig 36 shows a stop. The range of motion is limited. X-rotation causes the plate to engage the bolt and prevent further rotation. A bumper is shown in Fig 40. The bumper is a stop with a viscoelastic material which sits between the rigid portion of the stop and moveable body. The bumper provides a gentler transition from no restriction on rotation to complete restriction on motion. This should not be confused with viscous or elastic characteristic of motion. Bumpers are differentiated because they act over a short distance (no greater than 1/2" for snowboarding binding application). Pin and hole configurations (Fig 40) are similar to their application in fixing the motion. They operate to set the limits of motion. Clamps may also be used to set the position of a stop. Consider the y-translation rail in Fig 6. By affixing a clamp to the rail, the limit of motion can be established. Irregular surfaces can also be used in limiting motion. Fig 30 shows a rail with an irregular surface. A stop could be attached to the rail and have its position be fixed by the mating of a corresponding irregular surface. Threaded connectors may also be used for the adjustment of limits on the range of motion.

[49] Elastic restriction applies a force dependent on position. Some methods used for elastic restriction are springs (compression, extension, torsional, etc.), rubber, and pneumatics. Several elastic characteristics can be adjusted. The effective elastic modulus would be a useful adjustment. The elastic modulus is the ratio of stress to strain. The effective modulus is the modulus accounting for mechanical advantage which can be employed to scale force and the distance over which the force is applied. Effective elastic modulus can be altered by changing the mechanical advantage. The effective modulus with a constant elastic modulus spring can be altered by employing a lever system. By changing the length of the lever arm of the spring, the effective modulus can be changed. Elastic modulus can also be changed via cross sectional area of the elastic material. By increasing the area of the elastic material, the effective modulus increases making the system stiffer. One of the needs for adjusting the effective elastic modulus is the varying weights and heights of riders. The height of the rider can affect the torque applied to the bindings. A lighter, shorter rider may have softer elastic setting while a taller, heavier rider may uses a stiffer, more rigid elastic setting. Elastic restrictors may be preloaded. Settings related to the preload such as position and force maybe adjustable. The elastic restrictor may have a natural bottoming out position. This occurs when the restrictor can no longer undergo elastic deformation and the elastic modulus increases dramatically. A compression spring bottoms out when it is compressed to the point that the coils come in contact with one another and further deformation require the compression of the steel of the coils. Elastic restrictors may have a neutral position or range of positions. At the neutral position the elastic restrictor does not exert force. Pneumatic elastic dampeners utilize differences in air pressure to provide elastic restriction. Altering the amount of air by volume or pressure can be used to change the elastic characteristics.

[50] Viscous restriction applies a force dependent on rate of change in position. Some methods used for viscous restrictors are friction plates and orifices. Friction plates utilities frictional force to resist motion. The coefficient of friction of the two surfaces and the force exerted on the surfaces are important characteristics. Coefficients of frictions can be altered by using different materials or the same material with a different surface roughness. A binding could employ a system where the frictional surfaces could be replaced to adjust viscous characteristics. An effective coefficient of friction could also be adjusted with mechanical advantage similar to the elastic characteristics. Viscous characteristic can also be changed by altering the force exerted on the surfaces. By increasing the force exerted on the plates, the force resisting motion is increased. Orifices may also be used to provide viscous restriction of motion by producing pneumatic or hydraulic friction. By altering geometric configuration such as size and shape allow for adjustment of the viscous restriction.

[51] Coupling is another type of restriction which is discussed in detail in another section.

[52] Adjustment may be discrete or continuous. A discrete adjustment only has two states. Fixing the x-rotation is an example of a discrete adjustment. With this adjustment, the rotation is either fixed or free. Continuous adjustments have a continuum of states. An example of this would be a z-rotation adjustment controlled by torque about the y-axis. Consider a friction plate which prevents rotation about the z-axis. A torque is applied about the y-axis is transfer to the friction plate. The larger force causes more viscous force resisting z-rotation.

[53] Three types of adjustment have been identified. They are automatic, quick, and setup. Setup adjustments require tools to complete. They are typically preformed off of the slopes, although it is possible to perform them on the slope. Quick adjustments do not require tools but still require a deliberate action of from the rider to perform. Automatic adjustments do not require a deliberate action from the user.

[54] An example of a setup adjustment is adjusting the position of the binding along the length of the board. The user has to disconnect from the board, use a screwdriver to remove the screws, reposition the binding along the length of the board, and then replace the screws on the board. These types of adjustment would typically be done infrequently. Typically hardware utilized in these adjustments would be screws, nuts, bolts, spring pins.

[55] An example of a quick adjustment is locking the x-rotation with a cam lever for riding a lift. Before riding the lift, the rider uses their hand to rotate the cam lever. The cam lever pulls two plates together which prevent the x-rotation. Interlocking toothed plates or high friction rubber plates could be used. At the top of the hill, the user releases the cam lever to disengage the plates and permit x-rotation. Typical hardware used in these adjustments would be latches, cam, levers, and pins including spring loaded pins, handles, threaded knobs, ratchets, snaps, wing nuts, and thumb nuts. Step in bindings represent a quick action (not a quick adjustment). Riders engage the system by simply aligning their foot with the binding and exerting force down on the binding. Releasing the binding takes a deliberate action by the rider. The action is commonly pressing or pulling a lever, flipping a cam, or pulling a cord.

[56] An example of an automatic adjustment is a x-rotation lock which fixes the rotation when a torque is applied about the y-axis. This system would be used while the rider is operating the board. The rider applies torque about the y-axis to carve. This torque is transmitted by the binding design on to interlocking toothed plates which fix the x-rotation. As the rider leans into a turn the lock is automatically engaged prevent x-rotation. As the rider comes out of the turn the system disengages allowing x-rotation. The rider does not have to perform a deliberate action to engage the lock. The lock activates as part of the normal use of the binding. A point of potential confusion is an adjustment which is made as a result of a user engaging or disengaging a step in binding. Engaging or disengaging requires a deliberate action by the user, but the engagement or release of the system is considered the primary action with the adjustment being secondary. An adjustment will be considered secondary and therefore automatic if it is controlled by a primary deliberate action used to preform a separate task.

[57] Adjustment may have a threshold of force to prevent insignificant, small changes from resulting in unwanted adjustment (Fig 28, 29). This applies more so to discrete adjustment, but can also apply to continuous adjustments.

[58] The novel restrictor for fixing motion, limiting the range of motion, elastic restriction of motion, and viscous restriction of motion is focused on the ability to make adjustments and how the adjustments are made.

[59] Another type of novel method for restricting excessive freedom is coupling. Coupling links motion in one direction with motion in another. A simple example of coupling would be linked x.-rotation. Consider two binding which have free x-rotation. Coupling the binding could be accomplished attaching a rigid linkage between the highbacks of the two binding (Fig 6). X- rotation in one binding creates x-rotation in another binding (Fig 7 and 8). Coupling could exist between one binding and the other, a binding and the board, or one part of a binding and another part of the same binding. The coupling could be rigid in tension and compression such as solid bar or a tubular body of any shape. The coupling could also be flexible in compression and rigid in tension such as a chain, rope, strap, wire rope, or string. The length of the coupling may be adjustable. Adjustments in length could be discrete such as a telescoping tube or continuous such a treaded rod. Coupling linkage may transmit linear forces (Fig 6) or rotational torque (Fig 45). The coupling may have distinctly different region of coupling. An example would be two inches of unrestrained coupling with rigid coupling outside of the two inches.

[60] Coupling may incorporate elastic or viscous linkages. When discussing these types of linkages, confusion can easily occur. When referring to a viscoelastic coupling it refers to length, rotation, velocity, or angular speed of the coupling relative to the force applied to it. An elastic linear coupling would have an unloaded length. As a force was applied to the linkage, it would lengthen or shorten depending on the direction the force is applied. An example of this would be coupling the binding with an extension spring. Similarly a viscous linear coupling would transmit force proportional to the rate of change of the length of linkage. These couplings can be easily confused with coupling of motion which is restricted. Consider a binding has x-rotation freedom and incorporates a spring to provide a neutral position. The x-rotation is connected to the x-rotation of the other binding with a rigid coupling (Fig 6). This system would not represent an elastic coupling. Two bindings which had x-rotation which was connected by a spring would represent elastic, linear coupling. The term "viscoelastic" in the phrase "viscoelastic coupling of motion" refers to characteristics of the coupling and not the characteristic of the motion the coupling is linking.

[61] Couplings may be adjustable. These adjustments can be automatic, quick, or setup.

[62] Indicators can be used with the ideas presented. An indicator can provide information on the state of adjustment, position, orientation, or engagement/disengagement. The indicator could show the limits of motion, any of the elastic characteristics, or any of the viscous characteristics. An example would be a dial to show the amount of compression of a spring exerting force on a friction plate viscously restricting motion. The dial would give an indication of the amount of force countering motion. Indicators can be but are not limited to acoustic, tactile, or visual. Visual indicators include but are not limited to color, position, orientation, blinking, numbers, and letters. An example of an acoustic indicator is using a sound to indicator of the engagement of a step in binding. When the rider pushes the boot into the binding, a metallic piece on the boot could strike a cantilever piece of metal on the binding causing it to vibrate and make a sound. This sound would ensure the rider that the binding had engaged. An indicator could be tactile. Tactile indicators can operate by means including but not limited to force or temperature. An example of tactile indicator is a x-rotation indicator (FIG 88). The rod comes to a point putting a point of pressure on the rider's leg. As the rider rotates, the spring increases the force on the rod which increases the force on the point on the rider's leg. This amount of force indicates the x- rotation position.

[63] An example is present of automatic adjustment controlled by force exerted by the rider's weight on the board. The force exerted by the weight of a person on the board could provide a valuable trigger for making adjustments. The force is exerted mostly downward along the z-axis. The force could be oriented off the z-axis slightly depending on the position of the rider, but the majority of the force will be oriented in z direction (i.e. leaning towards the tail of the board would exert force primary in z-axis but to a small degree along the y-axis). When a rider is carving on the hill, they are exerting a large, compressive force down onto the binding. The force is equal to or greater than the person's weight. When the rider jumps into the air, these forces are nulled. While in the air a small force may be created if the rider is twisting or crouching down. The large difference in the force from when the rider is on the ground and in the air makes this a valuable trigger to make adjustments.

[64] For example, exertion of force downward could be used to control the limits of x- rotation. When the rider is on the ground they exert a large force in the z-direction. In this state, the limits of x-rotation are limited (+/- 15 degrees). When the rider leaves the ground, the lack of the large z-axis force causes the limits of x-rotation to be relaxed (+/-45 degrees). This allows the rider to greater flexibility in the air to perform tricks and grabs.

[65] Another way to think about automatic adjustment is dependence. Fixing, limits on range of motion, elastic characteristics, and viscous characteristics in one direction is dependent on position in another direction, force in another direction, etc.

[66] X-rotation, z-rotation, and y-translation have all been identified as potentially useful motions to for boarding. Additionally x-rotation and z-rotation have been identified in conjunction with one another in the x-rotation over z-rotation rotation (various patents) and the z-rotation over x-rotation configuration (stated in patent application 10/325,520 [note different coordinate system used in this application]). An example of x-rotation over z-rotation is shown in FIG 50 (z-rotation during setup only) and FIG 51 (z-rotation in use). With the binding attached to the board and the board laying flat on the ground, the x-rotation is located above the z-rotation. The other configuration is the z-axis over x-axis (FIG 52-55). These designs allow for the rotation axis to be located in the XY plane and the YZ plane. Translation along the three coordinate axes has also been identified. Additionally patent application 10/325,520 has identified translation with a "sloping ramp on the board". This translation is not along the y-axis direction but along some path straight path in the YZ plane. [67] Before proceeding further, description the terms translation and rotation should be given formal definitions to avoid confusion. Definitions apply previously and subsequently. Motion is the change in position and/or orientation. Translation is the motion along a straight line. This is consistent with rectilinear definition of translation, and not consistent with the curvilinear definition of translation. Translation is defined by a single direction and can have an associate distance. This document of refers to line of translation which defines the direction of the translation but doesn't provide the line of translation. Rotation is circular motion. Motion is located in a 2D plane. The characteristics of the motion are described by an axis of rotation. This document of refers to axis of rotation which defines the axis but doesn't the plane of rotation, starting angular position, change in angular position, or the radius from the axis of rotation. These definitions are consistent with previous work done in this space. Arbitrary motion is also defined. Arbitrary motion is motion which is not made up of translations or rotations. A parabolic path of motion would be an example of arbitrary motion. A point to be made is that motion along any path can be approximated by infinite number of translations or an infinite number of rotations. For example, rotation can be approximated by little translation orientated on a circle centered on the axes of rotation. As the number of translation lines goes to infinity and the length of the segments becomes infinitesimally small, the approximation approaches rotation. These approximations as a method of describing arbitrary motion are not used in this document and are not valid in confirming or challenging the claims. A drawing of a binding with a parabolic path of motion is depicted in FIG 83. Arbitrary motion is considered to be any motion which is not purely translational and not purely rotational. The parabolic path of motion in FIG 83 would be arbitrary motion.

[68] A joint is a connection of two or more links which allow for motion between the links dictated by the nature and number of the degrees of freedom. A linkage is a two or more links connected with joints.

[69] Off axis (not along x, y, or z-axis direction) rotation was discovered while trying to design a safe binding. The binding is shown in FIG 59-62. This binding has incorporated off axis rotation and two rotation axes. It is accomplished with a double action hinge where the two axes of rotation are not parallel. The double action hinge with parallel axes of rotation was proposed in patent 5813689 without off axis rotation. It is speculated that patent 5813689's design was used to keep the base plate low to the board. The differing direction of the axes of rotation in the design depicted in FIG 59 was realized for safety. If there was a single x-rotation axis or two x- rotation axes like 5813689 and a rider fell towards the tail of the board, the rider would have to fall back a significant amount before the board would slip out from underneath. This would put significant torque and force on to the leg of the rider. FIG 60-62 depicts the motion characteristics of the design. This design was geared towards a crash or fall. If the rider fell towards the back of the board, as they were traveling towards the tail of the board, they would also be moving towards the heel edge of the board. Once their center of gravity was over the heel edge, the board would kick out. It was also discovered that the off axis design could also be used to provide more natural feel to the binding since rotating about the coordinate axes is not always the most natural motion.

[70] FIG 56 shows previous axes of rotation which have been identified for a single rotational joint. FIG 57 shows the previous axes of rotation which have been identified and the axes of rotation which are achievable with a single rotational joint or two rotational joints. FIG 58 shows the previously discovered lines of translation. Previous discovery have missed several off axis and off-plane axes of rotation and lines of translation. An axis of rotation or a line of translation may exist in any direction.

[71] The double action hinge design discussed previously has a characteristic which can be highly undesirable (FIG 60). If a binding of this design were to be used, when a rider jumped into the air, the binding would extend outward as the board pulls away from the rider (FIG 84). This is caused by the board and the rider being pulled away from one another. When the rider is standing on the board (i.e. carving) the rider and board are being pushed towards each other. As an alternative, a closed looped 4 bar link design has been discovered (FIG 67). There are 4 link and 4 joints. Each link has two axes of rotation and the distance between the axes of rotation are equal for all links. FIG 68-71 show each link individually to aid in visualization. The binding depicted has two identical 4 bar linkages in the front and back of the binding. FIG 72-73 shows the binding rotating to the right and to the left. A simplified illustration of the 4 bar linkage design with only the links and joints are shown in FIG 74-76. This design will be referred as the equal length 4 bar linkage design.

[72] The equal length 4 bar linkage (EL4BL) design is different from other designs with a centered single x-rotation axis. The EL4BL design has two x-rotational axes which are separated by a distance. This separation causes a zone of stability. When the rider's weight is support by the board, the rider's weight exerts force in the negative z direction and a located in the center of the board's width and higher in the z-axis direction than the axes of rotation. When the force is located anywhere (in y-direction) between the axes of rotation, the downward force of the rider's weight and the upward supporting force of the binding are stable. The range of positions between the axes of rotation represents a zone of stability (FIG 85). The direction of the zone of stability is an important characteristic. The direction is the primary direction of the force the zone is able to provide stability. In the EL4BL design of shown in FIG 85 the direction of stability is in the z- axis direction. The multiple axes of rotation create the zones of stability. This differs from the centered single rotational axis design. Because the rider's weight is located above the center of rotation these design are inherently unstable and do not have zones of stability. The lack of zone of stability causes the rider's weight to produce a torque which tried to rotate the binding about the x-axis. This force has to be countered by the rider cause additional fatigue. The binding with a zone of stability could relieve this strain on the rider. Additionally the zones of stability create a neutral position for the binding. This allows the rider to know the position of the binding by feel.

[73] Bindings with zones of stability have been depicted previously. US patent 5813689 shows an EL4BL design. The direction of the zone of stability is the z-axis. US patent 5855390 shows an off centered single axis design which provide a zone of stability in the z-axis direction. These bindings have the zone of stability but they are limited to the direction of stability only along the z-axis direction. Directions of stability need to be in any direction. A binding with a zone of stability also needs to be adjustable. Adjustments could be setup, quick, or automatic adjustments. Adjustments could be achieved by variety of method including but not limited to; rotating the entire binding (i.e. the bottom plate in FIG 67) or by rotating on of the two axes of rotation. Achieving a zone of stability is also not limited to EL4BL design and could be accomplished with many different designs. A zone of stability accomplished is depicted in FIG 86-87 which maintains stability with a straight rail which has been bent 4 times.

[74] The idea of a zone of stability is known, but the exact definition of zone of stability is not completely defined. Zones of stability are examined by looking at the force exerted on the binding, torque exerted on the binding, axis of rotation, and center of mass (COM) of the rider.

[75] The rider's COM is important because the forces need to ride the board and maintain stability are largely depend on this. The rider's COM is located significantly above the board. The board through the bindings exerts an upward force to support the rider. The problem arises from the location of these two forces. The upwards force is located below the downward force. This creates an unstable situation where a small movement off center creates the situation where the system wants to rotate causing the rider to lose balance. Controlling the board is all about maintaining this unstable equilibrium. When the binding itself is allowed to rotate stability can be an issue. With a single x-rotation axis in a binding, the binding will naturally want to rotate out from underneath the rider as the ankle rotates. This is why support high on the leg is important. It removes the DOF of the ankle. Think of traditional bindings as using the rider's ankle as the x-rotation. The novel designs being put forth are restrict the DOF of the ankle and replace it with a rotational axis in binding. With the x-rotation, the location and direction of forces and torque on the binding from the rider are important. The primary force on binding when the rider is not turning is the downward force of the rider's weight. This weight is exerted on the base plate of the binding. When x-rotation is allowed, the location of force exerted by the rider on the board is important for stability.

[76] To illustrate the concept of stability, the force exerted by the rider on the board will be assumed to be in the z-axis direction, downward, and in the center of the width of the board. The direction and location of the force can be in any direction. The restriction is used for convey the concept.

[77] For a binding with a single x-rotational axis, if the force of the rider is located above (along z-axis) the axis of rotation, then the binding is unstable. The upward force is provided at the axis of rotation and the downward force come from the rider. When the upward force is below the downward force, an unstable situation arises.

[78] Patent 4403785 doesn't have a zone of stability. X-rotation axis is located below the base plate (FIG 4 #53) of the binding which creates instability. The lack of support of the rider's leg and foot would make this a difficult binding to ride.

[79] Patent 4856808, 5813688, 5971419, and 7059614 also doesn't have a zone of stability. It has a x-rotation axis but it is still below the base plate (4856808: FIG 1 # 19, 5813688: FIG 3 #34, 5971419: FIG 3 #30, 7059614: FIG 4 #42) of the binding.

[80] The concept of zone of stability doesn't apply to patent 5401041 , 5713587, 6209229, 5771609, 5891072, 5967531 , 6138384, 6082026, and 7210252. The rotation is located in the highback of the binding or the boot. Downward forces are exerted on the base plate which is rigidly attached to the board so there isn't any motion which is allowed. Downward forces are not exerted on the highback which has the DOF allowed by the rotational axis.

[81] Patent 5813689 does have a zone of stability achieved with two x-rotation axes located below the base plate.

[82] Patent 5855390 has a zone of stability achieve with a axis of rotation located slightly above and to the side of the base plate.

[83] The EL4BL design has flat spot between the two axes of rotation. A zone of stability is not limited to these types of flat spots. They can any zone which exhibits better stability characteristics than a rotational axis located at or below the top of the base plate.

[84] A zone of stability can exists for any direction force or torque. Thus far the zones of stability have been discussed in the downward context. The downward zone of stability is when the rider and board are being pushed together such as when the rider is riding flat on the board. A zone could also be an upward zone of stability which occurs when the rider and board are being pulled apart such as when a rider is jumping through the air. A zone could also exist in response the forces and torques created when carving. A toe edge zone of stability or heel edge zone of stability could be designed. In general a zone of stability can be created for any force or torque. [85] For standardized definitions of type of joints, several joints are explained. A revolute joint (a.k.a. pin joint or hinge joint) is a 1 DOF joint which allows rotation about a single axis. A prismatic joint (a.k.a. translation joint) is a 1 DOF joint which allows translation along a straight path. FIG 81 depicts a prismatic joint. A ball joints is a 3 DOF joint which allows for rotation about 3 axes. FIG 78 depicts a ball joint. A cylindrical joint is a 2 DOF joint which allows translation along a straight path and rotation about a single axis. FIG 77 depicts a cylindrical joint. A pin in slot joint is a 2 DOF joint which allow one DOF of translation and one DOF or rotation. FIG 80 depicts a pin in slot joint, (patent 5810370 to achieve y-translation and z- rotation)A ball in slot joint is a 4 DOF joint which allow 4 DOF. It allows 1 DOF of translation and 3 DOF of rotation about all three axes. As crew joint (a.k.a. helix joint) is a 1 DOF joint which couples rotational about an axis and translation motion along a straight path parallel to the rotational axis. A Planar joint is a 2 DOF joint which allows for translational motion in a 2D plane. A cam joint is a 1 DOF joint which couples rotational about an axis and translation motion along a straight path with completely or partially perpendicular to the rotational axis. FIG 82 depicts a cam joint. All of these joints can be used in a binding design for motion.

[86] A novel method in the new field of bindings designed to allow motion is the use of a detent device (FIG 143) to change the interrelationship between force and motion. While working with the bindings it was found that too much freedom of motion could actually be distracting. In a flash of inspiration, the use of some sort of a piece engaging a recessing seemed like a simple and eloquent solution to the produce a small area where the binding has a tendency to "stick". This was quickly tested with excellent results creating a more secure feeling for the rider. Future investigation into design area revealed the full potential of this idea and provided the correct terminology for the ideas conceived used by people practicing this type of design. This detent design could be used to create a zone of stability.

[87] A detent device could be incorporated in any part of binding discussed in this document to alter the force/motion relationship.

[88] The detent consists of movable assembly and a stationary component. Elastic, gravitational, and/or frictional forces between the two members produce forces altering the interrelationship between force and motion.

[89] Important to the design is the profile of the mating surfaces. The most common uses a ball for the movable component making the_, profile spherical. This interfaces with a hole, spherical divet, or recessed line profile in the stationary component.

[90] Adjustable characteristics of the detent device could also be incorporated into the design. This could include but is not limited to one or a combination of the following: starting position, ending position, starting force, ending force, force characteristics between starting position and ending position, profile including but not limited to angle of contact between movable and stationary components, orientation between the stationary and movable components, viscous or frictional characteristics between the two components including but not limited to an adjustable mechanical leverage system or replaceable frictional materials, or elastic characteristics.

[91] Detent configuration could be push or pull. The most common is a detent ball configuration where a spring pushes down on a ball which pushes on a dent in the stationary component.

[92] Use of any type of joint to allow motion between the stationary and movable components. The most commonly used joints would be a cylindrical or ball joint. Rotational joints could be used in either of the two components. This could reduce the frictional forces. Partial or complete detent profile (used in static component, moving component, or both) could include but is not limited to one or a combination of the following: circular, spherical, v-notch, cylinder, cone, recessed rectangle (profile cut by a straight router bit), or recessed shape. Additionally the profile could include but is not limited to one or a combination of the following symmetries: reflection, rotational, translational, glide reflection, rotoreflection, helical, non- isometric, scale symmetry, or fractals. The profile could also be asymmetric to allow different force characteristic in different directions. The profile could also be an arbitrary profile.

Claims

Coupling device between one binding and the board.

Coupling using an open or closed linkage.

Coupling device which can be between one binding, the other binding, and the board.

Automatic restrictor with adjustment controlled by one or more of the following:

a) x, y, or z rotation, translation, force, or torque, b) presence of boot or user attached to the board, c) force holding boot or user on board, d) secondary to engagement or disengagement of a step in system

Restrictor with quick adjustment.

Restrictor with setup adjustment.

Z-rotation restrictor with adjustment where the adjustment is one or more of the following:

a) automatic fixing, b) automatic adjustment of limits on range of motion, c) setup or quick or automatic, d) setup or quick or automatic adjustment of one or more elastic characteristics, e) setup or quick or automatic adjustment of one or more viscous characteristics, f) setup or quick or automatic engagement or disengagement of restriction

X-rotation restrictor with adjustment where the adjustment is one or more of the following:

a) quick any angle or automatic fixing, b) course setup or quick or automatic

adjustment of limits on range of motion, c) setup or quick or automatic, d) setup or quick or automatic adjustment of one or more elastic characteristics, e) setup or quick or automatic adjustment of one or more viscous characteristics, f) setup or quick or automatic engagement or disengagement of restriction

Y-translation restrictor with adjustment where the adjustment is one or more of the following:

a) setup or quick or automatic fixing, b) setup or quick or automatic adjustment of limits on range of motion, c) setup or quick or automatic, d) setup or quick or automatic adjustment of one or more elastic characteristics, e) setup or quick or automatic adjustment of one or more viscous characteristics, f) setup or quick or automatic engagement or disengagement of restriction

Adjustable coupling restrictor.

Restrictor with automatic adjustment with a threshold of force, torque, or position for discrete adjustment.

Restrictor with a counter force or torque which returns an adjustment to a default state when the exerted force or torque drops below the counter force or torque level.

Restrictor operating on a motion which is not X-rotation or Y-rotation or Z-rotation or X- translation or Y-translation or Z-translation.

Open or closed linkages for a binding where one or more links have one or more of the following:

a) adjustable link length, b) one or more adjustable elastic characteristic, c) one or more adjustable viscous characteristic, d) adjustable motion stop, e) indicator of link length, f) indicator of one or more elastic characteristic, g) indicator of one or more viscous characteristic

Joint for a binding which have one or more of the following:

a) indicator of rotation, b) indicator of translation, c) indicator of motion, d) one or more adjustable elastic characteristic, e) one or more adjustable viscous characteristic, f) ability to be engaged or disengaged

Motion achieved with one or more of the following joints:

a) ball, b) cylindrical, c) pin in slot joint for motion which is not both rotation about the z-axis direction and translation along the y-axis direction, d) ball in slot, e) screw, f) planar

A closed loop of linkages for motion with 3 or more links which are not residing the the YZ plane.

Spatial closed linkage for motion.

A binding with an axis of rotation which is not in the XY plane, not in YZ plane, not along the x-, y-, or z-axis directions.

A binding with two or more axes of rotation where both of the axes are not in the x-axis direction and one of the two axes is not in the x-axis direction and the other axis is the not in the z-axis direction.

A binding with a line of translation not in the YZ plane and not along the x-, y-, or z-axis directions.

A binding allowing arbitrary motion.

A binding with a path of motion which has one degree of freedom and is arbitrary.

A binding with an adjustable zone of stability.

A binding with a zone of stability not in the z direction.

Visual indicator with display including one of the following:

a) visual color, b) visual position, c) visual blinking, d) visual numerial, e) visual letter, f) audible, g) tactile force, h) tactile temperature Indicator which senses any of the following parameters:

a) any elastic motion restrictor or coupling characteristic, b) any viscous motion restrictor or coupling characteristic, c) length of coupling, d) engagement or disengagement of a system, e) position, f) orientation, g) force, h) torque

Device which allows motion and having a zone of stability.

Binding utilizing detent device.

A binding achieving motion with rockers.

A binding achieving motion with cams.