SYMPOSIA PAPER Published: 01 January 1993
STP25571S

An Alpine Ski Binding with Electrically Modulated Twist Release

Source

The design of a new binding for Alpine skiing where the release level of the toepiece in twist is modulated based on the level of neural stimulation of one of the vastii muscles in the quadriceps group is described. A conventional binding toepiece was modified to offer two levels of release by placing two springs in series with a spacer between them. A special solenoid-activated mechanism was designed that could either hold the spacer fixed or release it depending on the electrical signal indicating the degree of muscle activation. If the spacer is held fixed, then the active spring has fewer coils and is stiffer (high release level). The design of this special mechanism is described and the computations necessary to ensure reliable activation with a low force solenoid summarized. The special circuitry that was designed to actuate the solenoid is also described. The results of testing a prototype binding system are described as well.

Author Information

Eseltine, K
University of California, Davis, CA
Hull, ML
University of California, Davis, CA
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Details
Developed by Committee: F27
Pages: 200–212
DOI: 10.1520/STP25571S
ISBN-EB: 978-0-8031-5237-3
ISBN-13: 978-0-8031-1494-4