EP3817831A1

EP3817831A1 - Ski binding, in particular a telemark ski binding, and ski provided with such a binding

Info

Publication number: EP3817831A1
Application number: EP19752730.2A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Pierre MOUYADE; Jozua SCHILTZ
Original assignee: M Equipment
Current assignee: Inwild
Priority date: 2018-07-04
Filing date: 2019-07-02
Publication date: 2021-05-12
Anticipated expiration: 2039-07-02
Also published as: EP3817831B1; US20210252373A1; FR3083454A1; WO2020008135A1; FR3083454B1

Abstract

Said binding comprises a front plate (2), designed to be rigidly connected to the ski, a front assembly (3) for immobilising the boot and capable of cooperating with the sole (81) of the boot (8), a rear assembly (6) for retaining the boot and capable of cooperating with a retaining lug (85) of the rear portion of the front sole and/or with the rear sole, said rear assembly being movable relative to said front plate in the vertical plane, and tensioning means (66) which act between the rear retaining assembly (6) and the ski and/or the front plate (2) and which are capable of tensioning the boot (8) on the binding (1) and enabling the heel to be raised freely. According to the invention, the front immobilisation assembly is mounted in a floating manner on the front plate about a transverse pivot axis (A3) located, in a longitudinal direction, in front of a point (32') referred to as a supporting point and belonging to the front assembly, said supporting point enabling the front end (81') of the sole (81) of the boot to be supported, the hinged axis (A6) of the rear retaining assembly being distinct from the transverse pivot axis (A3) by being located behind said transverse pivot axis. Said floating nature makes it possible to substantially reduce the stresses exerted on the binding in accordance with the invention, as well as on the boot immobilised by said binding.

Description

Ski binding, in particular telemark skiing, and ski equipped with such a binding

Technical field of the invention

The present invention relates to a ski binding, more particularly of the telemark type. However, it finds its application to bindings fitted to other types of ski, such as cross-country skis, which the user wishes to use in "telemark" mode.

State of the art

Traditionally ski touring, telemark ski or cross-country ski bindings allow easy lifting of the heel in practice either for climbing or for taking the telemark step to make a turn. To be able to perform this gesture, the bindings ensure that the front toe of the shoe is held in place by a stirrup that leaves the heel free to move.

In telemark, the most commonly used materials were bindings according to “standard 75”, such as for example the bindings described in US patent 7,401, 802 (Black Diamond Equipment). This type of binding is characterized by a fixed front socket, which maintains the so-called "duckbill" shape located at the front of the shoe, as well as a cable tension system equipped with springs locking on the heel of the shoe. The standard of these bindings requires having a right and a left binding. The shape of the soles is asymmetrical, with a more flared shape towards the outside of the foot. By cons, it is possible to put a right shoe in a left binding, it follows that the ski will not be aligned with the shoe resulting in great difficulty in skiing.

This shoe standard also makes it difficult to walk on rock when climbing in the mountains. It does not allow the use of standard glacier cleats and limits the use of this type of boot to only skiing with telemark binding. In addition to the problem of fixing right and left, the installation of the shoes in the bindings is always very delicate. The skier is often forced to put a knee on the ground to block the ski and be able to lock the tension system on the heel of the boot. These operations are made even more difficult in the presence of snow. Indeed, skis are rarely equipped with "ski stop", they slide easily sometimes making the locking operation tedious. Finally, heaving in the event of a fall is practically impossible, so that the use of these bindings therefore presents a high risk of injury to skiers. ROTTEFELLA filed a German patent application in 1995, which was extended by an international patent application published under the number WO 96/23558. This document outlines and details a new concept of connection between a shoe and sports equipment, such as a ski in particular. The bases of this concept will lead to ten years later a new standard called NTN, which will be explained later in this description. The idea developed in WO 96/23558 is no longer to link the boot to the ski between the front toe and the heel, but to link only the so-called metatarsophalangeal articulation zone with the sports equipment. The concept of this invention was to provide an improved fastening device, reconciling the problems of lifting the heel of the shoe, torsional control and fatigue of the materials. The idea of a specific attachment of the so-called metatarsophalangeal articulation zone has certainly brought several advantages to the practice of sport and in particular telemark. However, the main objective, which was to resolve the fatigue of the materials, has never been achieved as will be explained in more detail in the remainder of this description.

In the mid-2000s, a group of manufacturers defined the new standard mentioned above, called "New Telemark Norm" or NTN, which established a new standard for ski / boot interface. The new boots, defined by this standard, can be used in telemark or alpine skiing, and can receive standard glacier crampons. The sole of the shoe is divided into two parts: the front sole specific to the NTN standard and the heel which is classic and distinct from the front sole. The specificity of the front sole comes from the protrusion (grip area NTN) which is located at the arch of the shoe in the center of the shoe, at the rear end of the front sole. Thus, the boot can be secured to the ski by being held between the front part of the front sole and the projection. The sole is also symmetrical. This new standard has made it possible to create bindings which combine the freedom of movement of the heel specific to telemark and which integrate a safety device releasing the boot in the event of a fall of the skier. The bindings being symmetrical the user can put on the ski he wishes as he would for conventional alpine ski bindings, there is no longer left or right ski. Responding to several problems of the standard of the standard 75, these bindings can also integrate ski stops and bring an additional safety for skiers.

Among the fixing models meeting the NTN standard, mention will be made in particular of the fixing described in document EP 1 790 396, which is marketed by the company ROTTEFELLA under the commercial reference FREERIDE ™. This binding comprises a set for immobilizing the front end of the shoe, which includes in particular a stirrup. This horseshoe-shaped stirrup holds the front of the shoe and the lateral overhangs ensuring good support of the shoe. The shoe is held flat over the front 40 millimeters of the shoe. So the first 30 millimeters of the shoe shell are also held flat by the stirrup which exerts its holding function on the lateral overhangs of the sole.

In the Telemark mode of use, the above-mentioned front immobilizer assembly is locked in rotation relative to the ski. The front part of the boot is kept flat, parallel to the ski. The stirrup being locked in rotation, the shoe is constrained when the heel is raised. First of all, we notice that during the practice of Telemark, the sole of the shoe is badly damaged. When the heel is raised, when the bellows is completely flattened, the area of the shoe located between the front of the bellows and the part held by the stirrup deforms because the part of the sole located just before is blocked in the stirrup. The side edges of the shoes are strongly marked and sometimes tear. After a few months of use, the boot is irreparably deformed and a significant play between the boot and the binding appears, introducing a feeling of floating which limits the precision of piloting the ski.

Furthermore, the stirrup is also subjected to significant stresses, so that there is a significant risk of mechanical rupture of this part. Finally, this binding does not offer progressive bending for the user wishing to practice Telemark. In particular, during certain phases of the flexion movement performed by the user, this flexion is not felt as regular, varies a lot with sometimes games and moments without tension.

This binding offers an additional mode of use, of the hiking type, in which this front immobilization assembly is released, so as to be able to pivot relative to the ski around a transverse axis located under the front part of the sole of the shoe. So in telemark mode the stirrup is blocked while in hiking mode the stirrup is free to rotate.

In summary, the type of fasteners described above involves many drawbacks, notably deformation and deterioration of the shoes due to the stresses created by the new geometry of the stirrup as well as high stresses in the fastening.

There are also known fasteners meeting the NTN standard, which are marketed by the company 22DESIGN under the reference OUTLAW ™. This fixation uses a short stirrup with little grip on the sole. Only the first 10 millimeters of the sole are taken in the stirrup. The lateral overhangs of the sole are not maintained. This choice allows a certain degree of rotation of the shoe within this stirrup. Consequently, the blocking sensation is reduced, in particular with regard to the solution described immediately above. However, this reduction in length of the stirrup induces significant risks of the shoe leaving the stirrup. This also results in less precision when taking the edge when the user wishes to make a turn. In fact, since the outsides of the sole are not used, the lateral force transmission is reduced. The user can also feel the play of the shoe in the binding due to the low grip of the shoe. In order to remedy this specific drawback, it has been proposed to integrate powerful springs, so as to block the shoe at the bottom of the stirrup. This significant restoring force, however, requires a very high physical effort, when practicing Telemark. In addition, it is also accompanied by premature wear of the soles, as in the FREERIDE binding described above.

In view of the above, the present invention aims to remedy at least certain drawbacks of the prior art mentioned above.

The introduction of the NTN standard divided the telemark community because the products offered required a change in technique. In 2014, the plaintiff had introduced on the market a new product called MEIDJO ™ which, while using shoes with the NTN standard, makes it possible to rediscover the sensations of classic bindings called "standard 75". The present invention firstly proposes to offer the same convenience of use.

The present invention also aims to propose a fixing which makes it possible to reduce the mechanical stresses, during the practice of Telemark.

The present invention also aims to provide such a binding, which avoids any untimely deterioration of the shoe.

The present invention also aims to provide such a fixation, which ensures a pleasant practice of Telemark for the user, in particular by allowing the most natural possible leg flexion with regular and progressive tension.

The present invention also aims to provide such a binding, which allows a particularly simple and quick fitting to put on. The present invention finally aims to provide such a fixing which is capable of integrating, on its front part, a security system for the purpose of heaving. Objects of the invention

The object of this invention is a binding whose front assembly (referenced 3 in attached FIG. 1) is mounted floating and free to rotate on an axis (referenced A3 in this FIG. 1) perpendicular to the natural direction of movement of the skier, ideally placed just in front of the shoe. This floating front assembly associated with an adequate tension system (formed by the references 6 and 66 in the appended figures), making it possible to create a suitable triangle of forces, offers the user a flexion with a regular and progressive restraint tension and this without undue stress on the material. This invention therefore limits the internal forces in the system without constraining the shoe excessively. The effect of the floating front assembly with a pivot point ideally placed just in front of the shoe allows two phases of optimal use for the user:

• During the first phase of lifting the heel (angle up to approximately 30 °), as shown in Figure 8 attached, the front assembly (2) is maintained in a horizontal position. Indeed, the pressure exerted by the user on the base of the front assembly (32) combined with the pivot axis (A3) located in front of the shoe, imposes a reverse tilting force in the direction of lifting the heel . Naturally the mechanism keeps the front part of the shoe flat. Therefore the pressure is maximum on the ski and allows a good control of the trajectory.

• During the second phase of lifting the heel (lifting angle greater than 30 ° - see attached Figure 9) when the user lengthens his pace or when he is forced to bend more to cushion a ground defect, the stress exerted by the shoe on the stirrup (32) becomes more important. As the front assembly is free to pivot, the force exerted by the shoe on the stirrup, naturally drives the front assembly which can pivot around the axis (A3) and accompany the shoe. In this case the triangle of forces has grown. The spring force being maximum, the user can perfectly master his ski without excessive stress on the boot at the stirrup (32).

According to the invention, at least one of the above objectives is achieved by a ski binding (1; 101), in particular a ski touring, telemark or cross-country ski binding, for fixing a boot ( 8; 208) ski, comprising a sole (81; 281) and a heel (84; 284), said ski binding (1) comprising: a front plate (2; 102; 202), with reference to the direction of movement of the ski, this front plate being intended to be secured to the ski,

a front assembly (3; 103; 203) for immobilizing the shoe, capable of cooperating with the sole (81; 281) of the shoe (8; 208),

- a rear assembly (6; 106; 206) for retaining the boot, with reference to the direction of movement of the ski, this rear assembly being able to cooperate with a retaining lug (85; 285) of the rear part of the sole front and / or with the rear sole, this rear assembly being movable relative to said front plate in the vertical plane,

- tensioning means (66; 266, 266 ') which act between the rear retaining assembly (6, 106; 206) and the ski and / or the front plate (2, 102; 202), which are able to ensure the tensioning of the shoe (8; 208) on the binding (1; 101; 201) and allow the heel (84; 284) to be freely raised,

characterized in that the front immobilization assembly (3, 103; 203) is mounted floating on the front plate, around a transverse pivot axis (A3; A103; A203) situated, in longitudinal view, in front of a point (32 ′) of said support belonging to the front assembly, this support point allowing the support of the front end (81 ′) of the sole (81; 281) of the shoe,

the hinge axis (A6) of the rear retaining assembly (6; 106; 206), relative to the front plate (2, 102; 202), being distinct from the transverse pivot axis (A3) , this articulation axis (A6) of the rear retaining assembly (6; 106) being located behind, with reference to the direction of movement of the ski, of this transverse pivot axis.

The fixing of the invention may include all or part of the following characteristics, insofar as they are technically compatible:

- The transverse pivot axis (A3) is located, in the longitudinal direction, in front of a point (36) called a stop belonging to the front assembly, this stop point (36) allowing the stop of the front end d '' a locking lug (83) belonging to the shoe,

- the transverse pivot axis (A3) is located, in longitudinal view, immediately in front of said abutment point (36),

the distance (L36) separating, in a longitudinal direction, the transverse pivot axis (A3) and the articulation axis (A6) of the rear retaining assembly (6) is between 20 and 120 mm, especially between 35 mm and 80 mm,

in a first bending phase, the immobilization assembly does not pivot substantially and, in a second greater bending phase of the shoe, this immobilization assembly pivots relative to the plate, the distance (X3) separating, in a longitudinal direction, the transverse pivot axis (A3) and the fulcrum (32 ') is between 0 and 40 mm, in particular between 0 and 25 mm,

- the distance (Y3) separating, in a vertical direction, the transverse pivot axis (A3) and the support point (32 ’) is between -30 mm and +30 mm,

the front immobilization assembly (3) of the shoe comprises a stirrup (40) and a support member (30) of the shoe, mutually movable between an immobilization position and a shoe release position, this front assembly further comprising a locking element (5) making it possible to mutually lock the stirrup and the support member, in said immobilized position,

- The assembly before immobilization (103) of the shoe is made in one piece.

The invention also relates to a method for adjusting a ski binding (1; 101; 201), in particular a ski touring, telemark or cross-country ski binding, for the binding of a ski boot (8; 208), comprising a sole (81; 281) and a heel (84; 284), said ski binding (1) comprising:

- a front plate (2; 102; 202), intended to be secured to the ski,

- a rear assembly (6; 106; 206) for retaining the boot, capable of cooperating with a retaining lug (85; 285) of the rear part of the front sole and / or with the rear sole, this rear assembly being movable relative to said front plate in the vertical plane,

the front immobilization assembly (3, 103; 203) being mounted floating on the front plate, around a transverse pivot axis (A3; A103; A203),

- the articulation axis (A6) of the rear retaining assembly (6; 106) being distinct from the transverse pivot axis (A3), this articulation axis (A6) of the rear retaining assembly (6; 106) being located behind, in the direction of movement, of this transverse pivot axis,

this process being characterized in that the front immobilization assembly (3, 103; 203) is mounted floating on the front plate, around a transverse pivot axis (A3; A103; A203),

the hinge axis (A6) of the rear retaining assembly (6; 106; 206), relative to the front plate (2, 102; 202), is distinct from the transverse pivot axis (A3) , this axis articulation (A6) of the rear retaining assembly (6; 106) being located behind, with reference to the direction of movement of the ski, of this transverse pivot axis, and in that the positioning of the pivot axis and, if necessary, the tensioning means are adjusted so that, in a first bending phase, the assembly before immobilization (3, 103; 203) does not pivot substantially and, in a second phase of greater flexion of the shoe, this assembly before immobilization (3, 103; 203) pivots relative to the plate.

According to an advantageous characteristic of this method, the distance (L36) separating, in a longitudinal direction, the transverse pivot axis (A3) and the articulation axis (A6) of the rear retaining assembly is further adjusted. .

The invention finally relates to a ski comprising a binding (1) as above.

It is to the credit of the applicant to have identified that certain drawbacks of the prior art, as described in particular in EP 1,790,396, stem from the stirrup of the stirrup relative to the ski, in the Telemark position. Indeed, such a blockage is the source of significant mechanical stresses, which lead to premature wear of the shoe and the binding.

In essence, these constraints are inherent in the immobilization of the front part of the sole in the stirrup of the binding. In fact, during flexion linked to the practice of telemark, the front part of the sole is clamped in the stirrup. The latter being fixed, this results in a significant deformation of the sole, which rests on this stirrup. Over time, the entire shoe is deformed and the sole takes up play in the stirrup, resulting in deformation of the shoe and a significant loss of precision for the user.

On the contrary, in accordance with the invention, the immobilizer assembly is mounted floating. In other words, the pivoting of this assembly relative to the ski is entirely free, that is to say that the invention overcomes the use of a locking member such as that described in EP 1 790,396.

Consequently, this floating and free-to-rotate nature makes it possible to substantially reduce the stresses exerted on the binding according to the invention, as well as on the shoe immobilized in this binding. In this respect, the constraints linked to the tilting torque at the front area of the shoe are reduced, since the shoe is free to tilt when the stirrup is under heavy stress. Under these conditions, the life of both the binding and the shoe is improved.

Furthermore, according to a particularly advantageous characteristic of the invention, the floating character described above is not accompanied by instability, which would be detrimental to the satisfactory use of the binding. Indeed, the pivot axis of the immobilizer assembly, relative to the front plate, is positioned judiciously. In this regard, the person skilled in the art can adjust certain dimensional parameters which will be detailed below.

Consequently, during the initial phase of flexion, the weight of the user causes a natural tilting of the front toe of the shoe downward, in the opposite direction of this flexion. In this way, the immobilization assembly is substantially fixed while the front of the shoe is held flat, in a stable manner. The immobilizer assembly is then driven in movement, during a more accentuated phase of this flexion, so as to accompany the pivoting of the shoe. The overall flexion movement therefore takes place in a particularly natural way, which is very pleasant for the user.

It is also of the merit of the applicant to have identified the drawbacks of the prior art, as described in WO 96/23558. In essence, this document requires an interpretation of the drawings to sketch an industrializable and operational product. The analysis of FIG. 1, which is at the basis of the teaching of WO 96/23558, presents a concept of fixation whose shoe is held by the front point and a protuberance located under the sole, as well as a system of tension connecting these two zones. It will be noted that the tension system is linked to the stirrup which maintains the front point of the shoe by means of an axis numbered 23 in this figure. Those skilled in the art will readily understand that this concept can certainly work in theory, but only on one condition: the stirrup must be blocked or strongly limited in rotation. This condition is necessary for the tension system to operate, otherwise the shoe pivots with the stirrup without stretching the tension system. This condition is well fulfilled thanks to the part 25 visible in FIG. 1 which limits the rotation of the assembly 22. This condition is also detailed in FIGS. 6, 7 and 14 of document WO 96/23558, where we can see that the part 22 '(Figures 6 and 7) or the part 54 (Figure 14) is not mobile but integral with the ski. It will therefore be noted that in the concept of attachment, detailed in document WO 96/23558, the stirrup is either blocked or strongly limited in its rotation. Lexicon table

Description of the figures

Other advantages of the invention will appear on reading the description of two embodiments of the invention, given below purely by way of non-limiting example, with reference to the appended drawings in which: Figure 1 is a perspective view illustrating a fixing according to a first embodiment of the invention.

Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view, to better understand the different elements of this first embodiment.

Figure 3 is a side view of the binding, according to this first embodiment, equipped with a telemark ski boot, the assembly being assembled on a ski.

Figure 4 is a side view similar to Figure 3, in section of the binding, according to this first embodiment, equipped with a telemark ski boot, which allows a better understanding of the elements of the mechanism of the invention. This figure also defines the area, called area 3, in which the axis can be located (A3; A103).

Figure 5 is a side view in section of the binding, showing the concept of a floating front assembly pivoting around the axis (A3; A 103) as well as the tensioning system in a first embodiment.

Figures 6 to 8 is a set of figures in side view of the binding equipped with a telemark ski boot, illustrating the three successive phases of use of the binding according to this first embodiment of the invention. These figures provide a good understanding of the concept of the floating front assembly and the procedure for lifting the heel.

Figure 9 is a perspective view of the binding according to a second embodiment of the invention, the tension system of which is offset inside the plate 2, effectively freeing up the space under the shoe.

Figure 10 is a side view of the binding according to a second embodiment of the invention equipped with a ski boot.

Figures 1 1 and 12 are side sectional views of the fastener according to this second embodiment of the invention, in which we can observe the different positions of the axis A6.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view, illustrating this third embodiment of the invention, in which the shoe is held between the front toe 83 and the heel 84. FIG. 14 is a perspective view, illustrating this third embodiment embodiment of the invention, in which one can observe a monobloc front assembly pivoting around the axis A103.

Figure 15 is a side view illustrating this third embodiment of the invention, equipped with a telemark ski boot.

FIG. 16 is a side view in section, more precisely on the front part of the binding, illustrating a fourth embodiment of the invention, on which the stirrup 40 can pivot around the axis A3 independently of the base of the whole front. In this view, the stirrup is locked in rotation by the part 50 which, when actuated and pivots, releases the stirrup 40 making it possible to release the front point of the shoe. Figure 17 is a side sectional view, more precisely on the front part of the binding, illustrating this fourth embodiment of the invention, the front assembly of which pivots around the axis A3.

Figures 18 and 19 are side sectional views, more precisely on the front part of the binding, illustrating this fourth embodiment of the invention, showing the release of the stirrup 40 after the tilting of 50 allowing the release of the shoe.

Figure 20 is a side view, on a larger scale, of a shoe meeting the NTN standard as presented above, this shoe being able to cooperate with the attachment of the previous figures.

Figures 21 to 23 are respectively perspective, side and longitudinal section views, illustrating a fastening according to an additional embodiment of the invention.

detailed description

In this description, the expressions “front”, “rear”, “front”, “behind”, “forward” and “backward” refer to the direction of movement of the ski in normal use conditions. As illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 8, the binding 1 according to the first embodiment of the invention essentially comprises a front plate 2, a front immobilizing assembly 3, a rear retaining assembly 6 and a heel piece 7.

The front plate 2 firstly comprises a base 20, intended to be placed flat on a ski 9, as is shown in particular in Figure 1. With particular reference to Figure 2, for the purpose of fixing the plate on the ski, the base is hollowed out with holes 21, allowing the passage of fixing means, not shown. In a manner known per se, these fixing means are for example removable, in particular of the screw type. Two wings 22, mutually parallel, extend upwards from the base 20. These wings 22 define recesses 23 intended to support the immobilization assembly 3, in the low position of the latter. Furthermore, near its rear end, each wing 22 is pierced with an opening 24, intended for the articulation of the retaining assembly 6 as will be seen in the following.

The front immobilization assembly 3 is articulated relative to the plate 2, around a transverse axis denoted A3. It will be noted that, in accordance with the invention, this assembly 3 is mounted "floating" relative to this plate 2 or, in other words, is free to rotate relative to this plate. Still otherwise expressed, there is no provision for a specific member intended for the mutual blocking of the plate 2 and of the assembly 3, in rotation about this axis A3. This assembly 3 firstly comprises a member 30, allowing the support of the front of a shoe 8 as illustrated in particular in Figure 4, as well as 15 to 18. This shoe, meeting the NTN standard such as presented above, is more particularly illustrated in FIG. 20. In a manner known per se, this shoe 8 comprises a sole 81, from which extends the shoe 82. Furthermore a lug (front contact area) 83 , allowing the blocking of the shoe, protrudes forward from the sole 81. Within the meaning of the invention, this lug 83 is not part of this sole.

The abovementioned support member 30 comprises a lower plate 32, from which extend two lateral flanks 34, as well as a front bottom 36. Each flank 34 is pierced with an orifice 35, allowing the passage of the physical axis extending along the A3 axis. The front end of the plate 32, as well as the bottom 36, are curved according to the shape of the front end of the upper of the shoe 8. Furthermore, the support member 30 is provided with a yoke 38, allowing the articulation of a lock 50 as will be seen in the following.

The assembly 3 further comprises a stirrup 40, which is articulated relative to the support member 30 around the aforementioned axis A3. This stirrup 40 comprises an upper web 42, the rear edge 43 of which is curved. The veil 42 is extended downwards by lateral flanges 44, which cover the outer face of the flanks 34. Each flange is pierced with a respective orifice 46, which is placed opposite the orifice 35 formed in each flank 34. The plate 32, the sides 34, the bottom 36 and the veil 42 define a housing 48, allowing the shoe 8 to be immobilized.

In one embodiment, pins 39 secure the stirrup 40 and the support member 30. They are stationary with respect to each other, when the shoe causes the stirrup 40 to rotate, the support member 30 is also rotated.

During use, the sole 81 of the shoe is inserted under this veil 42, while the front end of the lug 83 abuts against the bottom 36 as shown in Figure 4. In this Figure 4 we note 32 ′ the point of the plate 32, in a view in longitudinal section, on which the front end 81 ′ of the sole 81 is supported. As mentioned above, this end 81 ′ is located immediately behind the lug 83, since the latter is not part of the sole. Furthermore, the front end of the upper 82 of the shoe 8 abuts against the aforementioned rear edge 43. We note 43 ′ the front point of this edge 43, in particular in FIGS. 2 and 4. The point 32 ′ of the plate is substantially perpendicular to this front point 43 ′.

In one embodiment, the assembly 3 finally comprises a lock 50, ensuring the mutual immobilization of the support member 30 and the stirrup 40. This lock 50 is articulated on the above-mentioned yoke 38, around a axis A50, parallel to axis A3 and located in front of the latter. This lock is provided with an actuation relief 52, hollowed out by a recess 54 allowing the support of a ski pole. The profile of this lock first of all defines a flattening section 56 for immobilization, intended to be trapped under the web 42 in order to prevent the pivoting of the stirrup 40. This flat section 56 is extended by a ramp 57, intended to slide under the aforementioned veil 42, when the relief 52 is pressed. Finally, this ramp is terminated by a shoulder 58, allowing the stirrup 40 to be held in place when the latter has been moved by pivoting opposite to the support member 30.

The lock 50 is movable between two functional positions, illustrated respectively in Figures 16 to 19. In Figures 16 and 17, the lock is in its active locking position, so that the bracket 4 and the support member 3 are mutually integral in rotation. On the other hand, in FIGS. 18 and 19, the lock is in its inactive unlocking position. In this position, the stirrup can pivot freely relative to the support member, around the aforementioned axis A3.

The rear restraint assembly 6 is of a type known per se, so it will not be described in detail below. This set 6 includes a base 60, allowing the support of the front part of the shoe. This base supports two rods 62, each of which penetrates into a respective opening 24, so as to be articulated on the plate 2. Unlike the rods, the base is extended by a spout 64 allowing conventionally the attachment of the shoe, at a lug not shown. As shown in particular in FIG. 10, the axis denoted A6 of articulation of the rear retaining assembly 6 relative to the plate, is located behind the abovementioned axis A3. The technical effect, linked to this mutual positioning between the two axes, will be explained in the following.

In addition, conventional means 66 are provided for tensioning the assembly 6, in particular by spring. These means 66, which work in compression, tend to bring the ends of the rods and the hooking spout together. Advantageously, these tensioning means are of adjustable intensity, in particular by means of screws 68. Finally, this element 6 is equipped with means, not shown, allowing footwear of the “Step In” type. To this end, this retaining assembly 6 is advantageously provided with a tensioning rod cooperating with a stop formed on the ski, in accordance with the teaching of French patent 3,016,799 in the name of the plaintiff.

The heel piece 7, also of a type known per se, will not be described in detail below either. This heel piece firstly comprises a support element 70, defining an upper surface 71 allowing the heel of the shoe to be positioned at a determined height. Furthermore, this heel piece may also include a locking member, not shown, equipped with locking elements capable of cooperating selectively with the rear part of the shoe.

The implementation of the attachment 1, as described above, will now be explained in the following.

In a first embodiment, the support member 3 and the stirrup 40 are secured by the pins 39. In another embodiment, it is first assumed that the latch 50 is in its active position, so that the support member 3 and the stirrup 40 are immobilized in rotation, as explained above The user then moves his shoe forward, so that the front end of the latter is immobilized in the housing 48 described above. The user then exerts an action on the tensioning link, mentioned above, so as to move the spout 64 away from the rods 62. This spout 64 is then hooked onto a retaining lug 85, visible in particular in Figure 4, belonging to this shoe. In the example illustrated, this lug 85 is provided at the rear end of the front area of the shoe. However, as a variant not shown, this lug 85 can be placed at the rear end 84 of this shoe.

The user can then practice Telemark, in particular by bending the inner leg against the tensioning means 66. During this bending, the user tends to compress or "break" a bellows 86, provided in the front part of the shoe and clearly visible in FIG. 20. With reference to FIGS. 7 and 8, a so-called flexion angle aF is defined which is formed between the horizontal and the main plane P60 of the base 60 of the element retainer 6.

In a first bending phase, corresponding to a low value of the bending angle (for example 30 ° in FIG. 7), the immobilizing assembly 3 does not pivot substantially relative to the plate 2, even if this assembly is mounted floating as explained above. This means that, relative to its initial position, the immobilizing assembly 3 forms an angle, noted a3 in FIG. 8, which is less than 3 ° (in the drawing this angle is close to -7 °). Therefore, the front of the shoe is kept well flat. On the other hand, the rear of the shoe is raised, by means of compression of the bellows 86.

Then, when the user continues to flex the shoe, the immobilization assembly 3 then pivots relative to the plate 2 according to arrow F3, as shown in FIG. 8. This pivoting is obtained beyond a threshold value of the bending angle, which is for example close to 40 °. In FIG. 8, this bending angle has a value close to 80 °. Furthermore, the immobilizer assembly 3 forms a significant angle a3, with respect to its initial position, typically greater than 10 °.

A person skilled in the art is capable of taking into account several parameters, with a view to optimal operation of the binding 1. In particular, he can play on the positioning of the axis A3, both in height and in the direction longitudinal of the ski. In this regard, Figure 4 illustrates the area in which this axis can be positioned. In this figure 4, we find the shoe 8, the upper of which bears against the edge 43 ’. Furthermore, the lug 83 abuts against the bottom 36, while the front end 81 ′ of the sole comes to bear against the so-called characteristic point 32 ′ belonging to the plate 32.

The zone Z3, shown overall by a rectangle in this FIG. 4, illustrates the different possibilities for positioning the axis A3. Preferably, this axis is placed immediately in front of the bottom 36, namely immediately opposite the lug 83. This means that the distance between this bottom 36 and this axis A3 is very small, typically less than 3 millimeters.

Starting from characteristic point 32 ’, X3 and Y3 denote the horizontal and vertical dimensions of the zone Z3 respectively. Typically, X3 is less than 40 mm millimeters, preferably 25 millimeters. By way of example, in FIG. 4, A3 is located in front of point 32 ’at a distance of less than 16 mm.

Furthermore, typically, Y3 is between -30 millimeters and + 30 millimeters relative to the point 32 ', in which case the axis A3 is positioned vertically more or less above or below the sole of the shoe . In FIG. 4, the axis A3 is positioned opposite the sole with a value of Y3 equal to +8 millimeters, namely that this axis is positioned slightly above this point 32 '. In the case where the axis A3 is placed below the characteristic point, therefore vertically below the plane of the sole, this makes it possible to free up a space, within which a system can be provided. additional mechanical, in particular a safety release system of any suitable type.

It is noted that, in accordance with an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the axis A3 is located in front of the bottom of the stirrup, allowing the support of the lug 83. However, it can be foreseen that this axis s 'extends further forward, namely in the vicinity of the fulcrum 32'. In the latter case, this axis extends through lug 83, that is to say that it is a geometric axis, but not a physical axis. Appropriate means are then provided, allowing pivoting around this purely geometric, or virtual, axis. These means may for example be return means, such as connecting rods or external pivots placed in the sides 24, on which the assembly 3 pivots.

In order to ensure bending in two phases, which is as pleasant as possible for the user, the skilled person can adjust the value of at least one of these characteristic dimensions X3 and Y3. It can also adjust the strength of the tensioning means 66, using the screw 68. A person skilled in the art can also take into account the size of the user or the flexibility of the shoe.

We also note, in this figure 10, the distance L36 separating along the longitudinal axis the pivot point A3 and the articulation point A6 of the rear retaining assembly 6. As we have seen above, the axis A3 is located in front of axis A6 so as to form a triangle of forces formed by these two axes and by the heel of the user, which induces a tilting of the shoe. This distance is advantageously between 20 and 120 millimeters, being preferably between 35 and 80 millimeters. In this way, the triangle of forces mentioned above ensures a very satisfactory tilting of this shoe.

In the mode of use described in FIGS. 16 to 19, if the user wishes to carry out heaving, he first exerts a downward pressure on the recess 54, according to the arrow f50 in FIG. 18. So typical, this action is carried out thanks to the tip of his stick. This causes the bolt to pivot about its axis A50, which is shown by the arrow F50 in FIG. 18. Consequently, the flat is no longer in engagement with the web 42 and the ramp 57 slides along the lower face. of this veil.

The user can then exert an action, directed upwards, so as to rotate the stirrup according to arrow F40 in FIG. 19. Typically, this action is carried out using the washer of the stick. At the end of the stirrup pivoting stroke, the front end of the web 42 is held in position by the shoulder 58 of the latch, as shown in Figure 19. The user can then raise the front end of the shoe, so as to take off. It will be noted that this heaving can be implemented without any particular effort, since it is not carried out against the tensioning means 66.

Figures 9 to 12 illustrate a second embodiment of the attachment, according to the present invention. This second embodiment is distinguished by the fact that the tension system is placed inside the plate 2, making it possible to free the space under the arch of the shoe. This embodiment also makes it possible to design an adjustable axis A6, along the longitudinal direction of the ski. This adjustment of the position of the A6 axis makes it possible to adapt the activity of the binding, depending on the size of the shoe or on the user's taste. In these figures all the elements have the same numbers. Only the elements of the tension system deported to the front appear with the mention "‘ ".

Figures 13 to 15 illustrate another embodiment of the binding, according to the present invention. In these FIGS. 13 to 15, the mechanical elements similar to those of FIGS. 1 to 8 are assigned thereto the same reference numbers, increased by the number 100.

The binding 101 according to this embodiment differs from that 1, according to the first mode, in particular in that the immobilization assembly 103 is produced in one piece. In other words, this assembly 103 does not include two mutually movable elements, such as the support member and the bracket of the figures above. Furthermore, the assembly 103 does not have a lock, such as that 50 of the first embodiment.

More specifically, the assembly 103 comprises two support plates 132, which are extended upwards by two lateral flanks 134. The upper ends of these flanks are connected by a web 142, the rear edge 143 of which is curved along the shape of the front end of the shoe. These mechanical elements define a housing 148, allowing the immobilization of this shoe.

It will be noted that, unlike the first embodiment, the housing 148 is open towards the front, namely that it has no bottom, such as that 36. The plates 132 are extended downwards by respective flanges 133, in which are formed orifices allowing the passage of a physical axis. The latter ensures the articulation of the assembly 103 relative to the front plate 102, around a transverse axis A103. The use of the binding 101 is analogous to that of the binding of the first embodiment, as regards the footwear, as well as the two flexion phases. However, the release of the binding 101 is different, since the latter does not include a pivoting stirrup relative to the support member. To this end, the user must unhook the spout 164 relative to the shoe, so as to allow such heaving.

Figures 21 to 23 illustrate another embodiment of the binding, according to the present invention. In these FIGS. 21 to 23, the mechanical elements analogous to those of the first embodiment are assigned to them the same reference numbers, increased by the number 200. Furthermore, the mechanical elements, analogous to those of the embodiment of FIGS. 13 to 15, are assigned the same reference numbers increased by the number 100.

The binding 201 according to this embodiment is first of all similar to that 101, in that the support member and the stirrup are not mutually mobile. In other words, the 103 asset package is all in one piece. It will be noted that, in FIG. 21, the physical axis A203 has been represented.

However, unlike the previous embodiments, the retaining assembly 206 is not articulated on the plate 202. On the contrary, this assembly 206 is mounted directly on the immobilization assembly 203, with the possibility of sliding. To this end, a flexible guide 268 is provided, connecting these two assemblies.

Furthermore, the plate 202 comprises a housing 228, in which a spring 266 is mounted. The rear end of this spring is placed opposite a stop 229, while the front end of this spring is integral with a cable 266 ', which is mounted on the spout 264. When the user bends forward, the cable compresses the spring, namely that the front end of the latter is moved rearward.

Furthermore, this cable is wound, forming a bend, around the axis A206. Note that the latter is capable of sliding relative to the plate, so that the length L236 is variable. In the front view, three different values of this length have been plotted. This embodiment is advantageous, inter alia, because the spring is offset forward. As a result, this frees up space at the back of the binding, under the wearer's actual foot.

Claims

1. Ski binding (1; 101; 201), in particular ski touring, telemark or cross-country ski binding, for fixing a ski boot (8; 208), comprising a sole (81; 281) and a heel (84; 284), said ski binding (1) comprising:

a front plate (2; 102; 202), with reference to the direction of movement of the ski, this front plate being intended to be secured to the ski,

characterized in that the front immobilization assembly (3, 103; 203) is mounted floating on the front plate, around a transverse pivot axis (A3; A103; A203) situated, in longitudinal view, in front of a point (32 ′) said of support belonging to the front assembly, this support point allowing the support of the front end (8T) of the sole (81; 281) of the shoe,

the hinge axis (A6) of the rear retaining assembly (6; 106; 206), relative to the front plate (2, 102; 202), being distinct from the transverse pivot axis (A3) , this articulation axis (A6) of the rear retaining assembly being situated behind, with reference to the direction of movement of the ski, of this transverse pivot axis.

2. Attachment (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the transverse pivot axis (A3; A103; A203) is located, in longitudinal view, in front of a point (36; 236) called stop belonging to the front assembly, with reference to the direction of movement of the ski, this abutment point (36; 236) allowing the abutment of the front end of a locking lug (83; 283) belonging to the boot.

3. Fastening according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, the distance (L36; L236) separating, in a longitudinal direction, the transverse pivot axis (A3; A203) and the articulation axis (A6 ; A206) of the rear retaining assembly (6; 206) is between 20 and 120 mm, in particular between 35 mm and 80 mm.

4. Attachment according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the distance (X3) separating, in a longitudinal direction, the transverse pivot axis (A3) and the fulcrum (32 ') is between 0 and 40 mm, in particular between 0 and 25 mm.

5. Attachment according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the distance (Y3) separating, in a vertical direction, the transverse pivot axis (A3) and the fulcrum (32 ') is between - 30 mm and +30 mm.

6. Attachment (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the assembly before immobilization (3) of the shoe comprises a stirrup (40) and a support member (30) of the shoe mutually movable between an immobilization position and a shoe release position, this front assembly further comprising a locking element (5) making it possible to mutually lock the stirrup and the support member, in said position d immobilization.

7. Binding (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the assembly before immobilization (103; 203) of the shoe is made in one piece.

8. Method for adjusting a ski binding (1; 101; 201), in particular a ski touring, telemark or cross-country ski binding, for fixing a boot (8; 208) ski, comprising a sole (81; 281) and a heel (84; 284), said ski binding (1) comprising:

- a front plate (2; 102; 202), intended to be secured to the ski,

this process being characterized in that the front immobilization assembly (3, 103; 203) is mounted floating on the front plate, around a transverse pivot axis (A3; A103; A203), the hinge axis (A6) of the rear retaining assembly (6; 106; 206), relative to the front plate (2, 102; 202), is distinct from the transverse pivot axis (A3) , this articulation axis (A6) of the rear retaining assembly (6; 106) being located behind, with reference to the direction of movement of the ski, of this transverse pivot axis, and in that the positioning of the pivot axis and, if necessary, the tensioning means are adjusted so that, in a first bending phase, the assembly before immobilization (3, 103; 203) does not pivot substantially and, in a second phase of greater flexion of the shoe, this assembly before immobilization (3, 103; 203) pivots relative to the plate.

9. Method according to the preceding claim, in which the distance (L36; L236) separating, in a longitudinal direction, the transverse pivot axis (A3; A203) and the articulation axis (A6; A206) is further adjusted. ) of the rear retaining assembly.

10. Ski comprising a binding (1; 101; 201) according to any one of the preceding claims.