EP0778054B1 - Assembly for changing the flexibility of a ski - Google Patents

Abstract

The damping or reinforcement appliance (10,12,14) operates in conjunction with a parameter-dependent control (40). This controls the compressive forces especially between the ski boot and ski, preferably in the ball part of the ski boot. Parts (18,20) fixed to the ski transmit tensile or shearing forces in the longitudinal direction of the ski and are joined by a coupling. The control alters the forces transmitted by the coupling and or alters energy dissipations occurring in the coupling and or plugs in or out the coupling or parts of it.

Description

The invention relates to an arrangement for changing the Flexibility of a ski during a skiing phase, with a damping or stiffening device, which by means of a control device in Dependence on the load on the ski by the skier is controllable.

A ski often vibrates, when it glides over snow. This is due to bumps the ski slope. In this context, the bumps stimulate the slope surface very different, largely random Vibrations of the ski. The vibrations or Vibrations have advantageous on the one hand and on the other hand adverse influences on skiing.

An advantageous influence is that vibrating skis a feeling of vitality, responsiveness and one convey easy controllability of the ski. Furthermore vibrating skis glide faster than non-vibrating skis. Even if the reason for this is not completely clear, it is assumed that the air under the ski Lubricant can act and / or the reduced interaction between skis and snow to lower friction losses leads (as indicated by flatter ski tracks in the snow becomes). In addition, many good skiers feel vibrating Skis as less tiring than non-vibrating skis. In addition, according to many skiers, the introduction a swing with vibrating skis.

Even if vibrating skis are beneficial under all circumstances appear, they have some drawbacks. Vibrations can cause a ski to make contact loses with the snow, so that the stability of the Skier impaired on the ski and the ability of the Skier is reduced to keep the skis in the snow and respectively. In addition, the ski edge has vibrating skis a shorter in contact with the snow surface than with non-vibrating skis, so that the ability to do the necessary Lateral forces to complete a swing at high Generating speed is compromised. In contrast this has a longer one for non-vibrating skis Edge area contact with the snow surface, with the result that a lower specific load on the ski edge occurs. This enables the skier to generate higher lateral forces and a designated swing at higher speed To run.

As a result, it is easier to swing on a swing Initiate skiing. On the other hand, a swing at high speed with a non-vibrating ski be more easily completed.

Similarly, a stiffened ski offers one accordingly stiffer edge for use in snow than one less stiff ski. Accordingly, bows can be easier with stiff skis.

To switch off or reduce vibrations, skis attenuated. The damping consumes the vibration energy and converts them to heat. There are various types on the market Damping systems available. Such a product has the shape of an additional plate, known as "Derbyflex" (see US 4,856,895 and EP 01 04 185). Such additional plate dampers are mounted on the top of the ski. An elastomeric cushioning material is sandwiched between arranged on the top of the ski and a cover plate which attaches the ski binding. The elastomer damping material forms an inevitably constantly effective Cushioning layer. Similar auxiliary plate dampers are also available from other manufacturers.

A modified type of damping system is in the ski integrated. Here is a layer of damping material integrated into the sandwich construction of the ski. This arrangement also forms an inevitably constantly effective Damping layer, which acts similar to that described above Additional disk damper.

Another damping system, as in the US patents 5,332,252 and 5,417,448 is described on the top of the ski. Used this damping system a rod arranged in the longitudinal direction of the ski, which is fixed is held on the top of the ski in front of the binding area and has an end which is displaceable relative to the ski and which before binding against a block of elastomer material encounters. The elastomer damping material is under compression deformed. A similar, albeit shorter, rod and one Attenuator can be arranged behind the binding.

In other attenuation systems, an attenuator is in the Ski bindings and ski boots integrated.

WO-A-93/14837 relates to an arrangement of the above Art. According to this document is in the middle range of the ski a toggle lever arrangement is provided which before Insert the shoe in the binding or through the shoe in a tension state is adjusted by the one on the ski Additional force is exerted that the ski ends relative to Middle of the ski tries to bend downwards. By a pedal loaded by the weight of the skier can Tension of the tension state can be increased.

FR-A-2 702 386 shows a hydraulic device which transforms the load of the skier into a analogous tensioning of the ski is implemented.

A disadvantage of the known damping and stiffening systems is that the damping and stiffening is constant (i.e. constantly) occurs while skiing. There are none Devices are provided to the attenuators and stiffeners effective or ineffective while skiing close. So if the well-known damping and stiffening systems a better grip on icy surfaces as well allow faster turns, so this will be at the expense of achievable sliding speed as well as the performance of others Maneuvers accomplished.

From US patent 5 435 588 is a ski with deflections of the ski markedly progressively increasing bending stiffness known. This is essentially provided on everyone Ski to arrange two stiffening slats, the facing each other Interact with the ends as soon as the Deflection of the ski exceeds a predetermined bending dimension. If necessary, between the stiffening slats a spring element can be arranged, which with play can take effect. With play-free arrangement of the spring element is determined by its spring characteristics Progressiveness of bending stiffness ensured before that Spring element is pressed together on the block or the stiffening slats interact like a stop. When playing with Arrangement of the spring element occurs its effect only when a minimum deflection of the ski is exceeded on.

The stiffening of the ski depending on the bending condition according to US-A 5 435 588 can only occur if on the one hand Driving situation in which the skis are bent could. Such situations are for example when driving through a valley or when cornering with strong Edge engagement given. On the other hand, a corresponding one The skier is burdened by the ski. One alone stiffening caused by the load of the skier the ski is therefore not possible according to US Pat. No. 5,435,588.

With the invention it should now be achieved that at given Load conditions of the ski increased rigidity of the ski and otherwise an unchanged bending behavior of the Skis (according to its design) given are. This is achieved in that with an arrangement of the type specified at the beginning the control device the damping and stiffener either above or below a predetermined or predefinable by setting The threshold value of the load is activated or deactivated.

The invention is based on the general idea that changing loads occurring during swing maneuvers Use skis to control the rigidity or damping of the skis. While driving straight in the direction of Fall line of the respective terrain both skis loaded equally be so that the weight of the skier on both Skis are distributed roughly in half, the skis are turned or inclined driving with significantly different loads the consequence that a very high proportion of the weight of the skier is effective on a ski, this proportion due to dynamic effects the static weight of the skier can exceed. Otherwise, the skier can too when swinging, shift its weight forward for example, to put more stress on the blades of a ski.

If necessary, inertial forces with respect to a Ski vertical axis or vertical axis and / or relative rotations exploited between ski boot and ski with respect to this axis become a when initiating turns of the skier cause increased damping and / or rigidity of the ski.

All such or similar load change forces and Movements can be used to control stiffness or damping of a ski can be used according to the invention.

According to the invention is a system for damping and stiffening a ski provided. This system includes damping elements which is an effective condition for vibration damping in the ski and an ineffective condition for reduction of vibration damping. Additionally or alternatively can stiffening elements with correspondingly effective or ineffective conditions may be provided to prevent the To counteract skis or to increase the rigidity of the ski Reduce. Furthermore, the invention comprises switching elements which functionally or effectively with the stiffening and damping elements are connected and an on state, where the stiffening and damping elements be switched into their effective state, as well have a switch-off state in which the stiffening and damping elements switched to their ineffective state become. The switching elements include a threshold value-dependent controlled device through which the switching elements kept either on or off and are used to switch the switching elements in case of over or. Falling below the threshold in the other Change state.

Otherwise, with regard to preferred features of the invention to the claims and the following explanation referenced advantageous embodiments, which are based on the Drawing are described.

Fig. 1

eine Seitenansicht eines Dämpfungssystems entsprechend einer ersten Ausführungsform der Erfindung, wobei dieses System auf einem Ski angeordnet und mit einem zehenseitigen Skibindungsteil und einem fersenseitigen Skibindungsteil sowie einem Skischuh kombiniert ist,

Fig. 2

eine Draufsicht auf eine Kupplungsanordnung der Fig. 1,

Fig. 3

ein Schnittbild entsprechend der Schnittlinie 3-3 in Fig. 2,

Fig. 4

ein Schnittbild entsprechend der Schnittlinie 4-4 in Fig. 2,

Fig. 5

ein Schnittbild entsprechend der Schnittlinie 5-5 in Fig. 2,

Fig. 6

ein Schnittbild einer weiteren Ausführungsform der Erfindung,

Fig. 7

eine Draufsicht auf eine Kupplungsvorrichtung gemäß einer weiteren Ausführungsform der Erfindung,

Fig. 8

ein Schnittbild entsprechend der Schnittlinie 8-8 in Fig. 7,

Fig. 9

ein Schnittbild entsprechend der Schnittlinie 9-9 in Fig. 7,

Fig. 10

eine Draufsicht auf eine Kupplungsvorrichtung entsprechend einer weiteren Ausführungsform der Erfindung,

Fig. 11

ein Schnittbild entsprechend der Schnittlinie 11-11 in Fig. 10,

Fig. 12

eine Seitenansicht einer weiteren Ausführungsform der Erfindung, wobei sowohl ein Dämpfungsglied zur Dämpfung des Skis sowie ein Versteifungsglied zur Versteifung des Skis vorgesehen sind,

Fig. 13

eine schematisierte Darstellung der Ausführungsform in Fig. 12,

Fig. 14

ein Schnittbild einer Kupplungsvorrichtung der Ausführungsform in Fig. 12,

Fig. 15

ein weiteres Schnittbild dieser Ausführungsform,

Fig. 16

eine schematisierte Darstellung einer kupplungsbetätigten Versteifungsanordnung entsprechend einer Ausführungsform der Erfindung,

Fig. 17

eine schematische Ansicht eines kupplungsbetätigten Versteifungssystems gemäß einer Ausführungsform der Erfindung,

Fig. 18

eine Seitenansicht einer weiteren Ausführungsform, wobei ein Schuh in einer Bindung mit einer kupplungsbetätigten Dämpfer-Feder-Vorrichtung angeordnet ist,

Fig. 18A

eine vergrößerte, ausschnittsweise Seitenansicht einer Klauenkupplung, wie sie nach Fig. 18 bei der Erfindung verwendbar ist,

Fig. 19

eine ausschnittsweise Draufsicht entsprechend den Pfeilen 19-19 in Fig. 18,

Fig. 20

eine detaillierte, aufgeschnittene Seitenansicht eines hydraulischen Dämpfers mit Versteifungsfeder nach Fig. 18,

Fig. 21

eine detaillierte, aufgeschnittene Seitenansicht eines alternativen hydraulischen Dämpfers mit Versteifungsfeder nach Fig. 18,

Fig. 22

eine schematisierte Darstellung eines Dämpfungs- bzw. Versteifungssystems gemäß einer weiteren Ausführungsform der Erfindung,

Fig. 23

eine Seitenansicht des Dämpfungs- bzw. Versteifungssystems der Fig. 22,

Fig. 24

eine detaillierte, aufgeschnittene Seitenansicht eines hydraulischen Dämpfungs- bzw. Versteifungsteiles für das Dämpfungs- bzw. Versteifungssystem nach Fig. 23,

Fig. 25

eine geschnittene Endansicht des Betätigungsorgans für das Dämpfungs- bzw. Versteifungsglied in unwirksamer Lage,

Fig. 26

eine geschnittene Endansicht des Betätigungsorgans in wirksamer Lage,

Fig. 27

eine geschnittene Draufsicht einer weiteren Ausführungsform eines hydraulischen Dämpfungs- und Versteifungsteiles des Dämpfungs- bzw. Versteifungssystems,

Fig. 28

eine geschnittene Seitenansicht eines Absperrventils gemäß einer bevorzugten Ausführungsform der Erfindung,

Fig. 29

ein weiteres Schnittbild dieses Ventiles,

Fig. 30

eine Seitenansicht eines Dämpfungssystems entsprechend einer weiteren Ausführungsform der Erfindung, wobei dieses System auf einem Ski montiert und mit einem zehenseitigen Skibindungsteil sowie einem fersenseitigen Skibindungsteil und einem Skischuh kombiniert ist,

Fig. 31

eine geschnittene Daraufsicht eines Dämpfungsgliedes des in Fig. 30 dargestellten Dämpfungssystems,

Fig. 32

eine geschnittene Daufsicht eines Dämpfungs- und Versteifungsgliedes entsprechend einer weiteren Ausführungsform der vorliegenden Erfindung,

Fig. 33

eine Draufsicht einer EIN/AUS-Ventilanordnung gemäß einer anderen Ausführungsformm der Erfindung und

Fig. 34

eine geschnittene Seitenansicht der in Fig. 33 dargestellten EIN/AUS-Ventilanordnung.

It shows

Fig. 1

2 shows a side view of a damping system according to a first embodiment of the invention, this system being arranged on a ski and combined with a toe-side ski binding part and a heel-side ski binding part and a ski boot,

Fig. 2

2 shows a top view of a coupling arrangement of FIG. 1,

Fig. 3

3 shows a sectional view corresponding to section line 3-3 in FIG. 2,

Fig. 4

3 shows a sectional view corresponding to the section line 4-4 in FIG. 2,

Fig. 5

3 shows a sectional view corresponding to section line 5-5 in FIG. 2,

Fig. 6

3 shows a sectional view of a further embodiment of the invention,

Fig. 7

a plan view of a coupling device according to a further embodiment of the invention,

Fig. 8

7 shows a sectional view corresponding to section line 8-8 in FIG. 7,

Fig. 9

7 shows a sectional view corresponding to the sectional line 9-9 in FIG. 7,

Fig. 10

a plan view of a coupling device according to a further embodiment of the invention,

Fig. 11

10 shows a sectional view corresponding to the sectional line 11-11 in FIG. 10,

Fig. 12

2 shows a side view of a further embodiment of the invention, both a damping member for damping the ski and a stiffening member for stiffening the ski being provided,

Fig. 13

12 shows a schematic illustration of the embodiment in FIG. 12,

Fig. 14

12 shows a sectional view of a coupling device of the embodiment in FIG. 12,

Fig. 15

another sectional view of this embodiment,

Fig. 16

2 shows a schematic illustration of a clutch-operated stiffening arrangement according to an embodiment of the invention,

Fig. 17

1 shows a schematic view of a clutch-operated stiffening system according to an embodiment of the invention,

Fig. 18

2 shows a side view of a further embodiment, a shoe being arranged in a binding with a clutch-actuated damper spring device,

Figure 18A

FIG. 18 shows an enlarged, partial side view of a dog clutch, as can be used in the invention according to FIG. 18,

Fig. 19

a partial plan view according to the arrows 19-19 in Fig. 18,

Fig. 20

18 shows a detailed, cut-away side view of a hydraulic damper with a stiffening spring according to FIG. 18,

Fig. 21

18 shows a detailed, cut-away side view of an alternative hydraulic damper with a stiffening spring according to FIG. 18,

Fig. 22

2 shows a schematic illustration of a damping or stiffening system according to a further embodiment of the invention,

Fig. 23

22 shows a side view of the damping or stiffening system of FIG. 22,

Fig. 24

23 shows a detailed, cut side view of a hydraulic damping or stiffening part for the damping or stiffening system according to FIG. 23,

Fig. 25

2 shows a sectional end view of the actuating member for the damping or stiffening member in an inactive position,

Fig. 26

a sectional end view of the actuator in an effective position,

Fig. 27

2 shows a sectional top view of a further embodiment of a hydraulic damping and stiffening part of the damping or stiffening system,

Fig. 28

2 shows a sectional side view of a shut-off valve according to a preferred embodiment of the invention,

Fig. 29

another sectional view of this valve,

Fig. 30

3 shows a side view of a damping system according to a further embodiment of the invention, this system being mounted on a ski and combined with a toe-side ski binding part and a heel-side ski binding part and a ski boot,

Fig. 31

4 shows a sectional plan view of an attenuator of the attenuation system shown in FIG. 30,

Fig. 32

3 shows a sectional top view of an attenuating and stiffening member according to a further embodiment of the present invention,

Fig. 33

a top view of an ON / OFF valve assembly according to another embodiment of the invention and

Fig. 34

a sectional side view of the ON / OFF valve assembly shown in Fig. 33.

The embodiments described below with reference to the drawing are advantageous embodiments of the invention, are not intended to limit the scope of protection in any way.

16, which is a damping system 1000 shows. A ski 1001 has, as shown is a damping device 1002, which works with the ski is connected. The damping device 1002 leaves choose between an active operating state Damping the vibration of the ski 1001 and an ineffective one Change the state to reduce the damping of the Ski 1001. If the damping is reduced, the vibration of the Skis are either not dampened at all, or the The vibration of the ski is dampened compared to the active one Operating state of the damping device with reduced Effect. The damping device 1002 is effective connected to a coupling device 1004. The coupling device 1004 has a threshold-dependent one Device 1006 which is based on an input variable I1 is applied. For example, at input I1 act as an input force. The coupling device 1004 also has an output part 1007, which between an effective and an ineffective state is switchable. If the output part 1007 of the coupling device 1004 is in the operative state, it creates one output symbolically represented as E and switches the Damping device 1002 in its effective operating state. If the output part of the coupling device 1004 is in the ineffective state, it creates a symbolic D designated output, and the damping device is 1002 ineffective.

If input I1 on threshold device 1006 is one Threshold reached, the threshold device 1006 holds the coupling device 1004 in effective or ineffective Status. When input I1 falls below the threshold (or, depending on the construction, exceeds the threshold), the coupling device 1004 goes into each different state, i.e. the ineffective or effective Condition, about. (Alternatively, input I1 can be a Minimum force acting on the coupling device 1004 acts.)

A damping control device 1008 can be provided to change the damping acting on the Ski 1001. there The damping control device 1008 may be the one on the ski 1001 increase or decrease effective damping.

16 can be used as part of a binding arrangement, in the ski itself, in the ski associated Shoe or in combination with the binding system, the ski and / or the shoe can be designed or arranged.

Referring now to FIG. 17, which is a stiffening system 1010 shown. A Ski 1001 has one with it stiffening device operatively coupled 1011. The stiffening device 1011 is as a pretensioning device shown and has an effective condition for Stiffness of the ski 1001 against bending and an ineffective Condition to reduce the rigidity of the ski. The reduction in the stiffness of the ski can either be due to this result in the ski not being stiffened, or insist that the stiffening of the ski is less than that Stiffening becomes, which in the case of the effective state stiffener 1011 occurs. The stiffening device 1011 is operable with a coupling device 1012 connected. The coupling device 1012 has a threshold device 1014 to which an input I2 works. At input I 2 it can be, for example to act as an input force. The coupling device 1012 has an output part 1015 with one effective and one ineffective condition. If the coupling device 1012 in effective state, it brings the stiffening device 1011 in their effective condition. If the coupling device 1012 has its effective state, its outcome represented by E. If the coupling device 1012 is ineffective the output is represented by D.

The coupling device 1012 comprises a threshold value device 1014. If I2 reaches a threshold, bring the threshold device 1014 the output part 1015 of FIG Coupling device 1012 either in its effective or ineffective condition. If input I2 is below the threshold falls (or, depending on the construction, the Threshold exceeds), the coupling device goes 1012 into the other state, i.e. the ineffective or the effective state. (Input I2 can be a Minimum force that acts on the coupling device 1012.)

A stiffening control device 1016 may be arranged the stiffening of the Increase or decrease skis.

The stiffening system 1010 shown in FIG. 17 can be used as Part of a binding system, a ski or a shoe or in combination with the binding system, the ski or the Shoe arranged.

1 shows a damping system 10 according to one embodiment the invention. The damping system 10 is as shown together with a toe-side binding part 6 and a heel-side binding part 8 arranged on a ski 2. The toe-side binding part 6 and the heel side Binding part 8 hold a ski boot 4 on the ski 2.

According to a first embodiment of the invention, this comprises Damping system 10 is essentially an elongated front Damper plate 12, an elongated rear damper plate 14, an attenuator 30 and a clutch 40. Das Attenuator 30 is in front of the toe-side binding part 6 attached to ski 2. It can be a fastener or Anchor 18 connect the attenuator 30 to the ski. It must be emphasized that the attenuator 30th can be formed in a variety of forms, including in the form of a hydraulic piston-cylinder shock absorber, a viscoelastic material Shear stressed under deformation, a piezoelectric Damper or a friction damper. Besides, can the attenuator 30 can be selectively adjustable to different Allow damping rates.

The front end of the front damper plate 12 interacts with the Attenuator 30 together. The rear end of the front Damper plate 12 extends through a slot in the toe-side binding part 6 into the clutch housing 60 of the clutch 40. Inside the clutch housing 60 acts the front damper plate 12 with the rear damper plate 14 together, as explained below.

The rear end of the rear damper plate 14 is at Ski 2 attached. A fastening or anchoring element can be used 20 the rear damper plate 14 with the ski connect. The front end of the rear damper plate 14 extends through an opening in the heel-side binding part 8 through into the clutch housing 60, where they with the front damper plate 12 can cooperate. alternative can the heel-side binding part on the top the rear damper plate 14 may be arranged. According to one preferred embodiment of the invention is an elongated Layer 16 for reducing friction between the Arranged top of the ski 2 and the rear damper plate 14, about the friction between the rear damper plate 14 and the top of the ski 2 decrease when the rear damper plate 14 in the longitudinal direction relative to the ski 2 shifts. Layer 16 also supports the rear damper plate 14 at a suitable height relative to the front Damper plate 12 from. The end pieces of the front damper plate 12 and the rear damper plate 14, which within of the clutch housing 60 meet, will continue described in more detail below.

Now the front and rear damper plates 12, 14 according to a first embodiment. As best seen in FIGS. 4 and 5, has the front damper plate 12 a middle plate 22 and two parallel plates 24, 26. The parallel plates 24, 26 form a slit 28 which serves to accommodate the plate and which is dimensioned so that he the rear damper plate 14th is able to record. The parallel plates are preferably 24, 26 welded or riveted to the middle plate 22, to form the slot 28 for plate reception. The rear damper plate 14 consists of a single, flat Plate.

The parallel plates 24, 26 of the front damper plate 12 and the rear damper plate 14 are with a recess provided in which an adjusting part 50 and a clamping device 44 are included, as described below becomes. The recess is best seen in Fig. 4, 5 shows how the rear damper plate 14 with the front damper plate 12 inside the clutch housing 60 is merged.

2 to 5, the clutch 40 is corresponding the present embodiment of the invention in detail described. The clutch 40 essentially has one Coupling housing 60, a tensioning device 44 and an adjusting part 50. The clutch housing 60 has an upper one Part 62 and a lower part 72. That of the jig 44 force is generated by the setting of the adjusting part 50 determined.

It must be emphasized that the clamping device 44 in can be formed in various forms, including in Shape of a finger-shaped spring washer, a disc spring, a spring clip, a wave-shaped spring, a compression spring, a torsion spring, a pneumatic bellows or the like. Purely for the purpose of representing a preferred one The clamping device is an embodiment of the invention 44 shown in FIGS. 2 to 5 as a finger-shaped spring washer.

The upper part 62 of the clutch housing 60 has a substantially flat central area 63 and two side areas 66. In the middle area 63 is towards the central one Transverse axis of the housing 60, a threaded bore 64 is formed. The side regions 66 protrude from the side edges of the middle region 63 downwards. On the lower edges each of the side regions 66 has a lip 68 formed thereon.

The lip 68 is a generally horizontally inward extension Area. The top of the lip 68 can continue as before is shown below in effective engagement with the lower part 72 are brought.

The lower part 72 has a substantially flat middle area 73 and L-shaped shoulders 74, which of protrude the side edges of the central region 73. The L-shaped shoulders 74 have a vertical section 76 and a horizontal section 78. When the upper part 62 and the lower part 72 are pushed apart, the comes Underside of the horizontal section 78 in engagement with the Bottom of lip 68.

The adjusting part 50 has a threaded section 52 and a pressure surface 56. The threaded portion 52 is for receiving dimensioned in the threaded portion 64, which in the middle area 63 is formed. A slot 54 is on the top of the threaded portion 52 is formed to be easier Way of using the adjustment member 15 a screwdriver, a coin or a similar shaped one To enable tool or object. If the adjusting part 50 is rotated so that it moves downwards, the pressure force is increased, which by the clamping device 44 is exerted on the clutch housing 60. In the clamping device 44 pressure applied to the clutch housing is reduced, when the adjusting member 50 is rotated in one direction, in which is moving upwards. The printing area 56 is essentially a disc-shaped flat surface, which is dimensioned in this way is that it engages the jig 44 stands.

A coating 70 with anti-friction material (which is available e.g. under the Teflon label) is on the bottom of the middle area 63 of the top Part 62 and on the top of the central area 73 of the lower part 72 provided where the housing with the front damper plate engages when the clutch 40 closes. The purpose of coating 70 is the friction between the clutch housing and the front Reduce damper plate 12 when clutch 40 is closed will be explained in more detail below.

The function of the damping system 12 is now based on the 1 to 3 are described. Before the shoe 4 is engaged on the toe-side binding part 6 and on the heel-side binding part 8 is attached to the ski, the adjustment part 50 set such that the clamping device 44 approximately corresponding preloaded by half the weight of the skier becomes. Now if the skier creates a force that the Preload force of the clamping device 44 exceeds, moves the upper part 62 descends and closes the clutch 40. It should be noted that the skier is on his weight shifted the talski and towards the toes of his foot, as soon as he starts a swing. The weight shift of the Skier is maintained until the swing is executed is. After that, the skier will lose weight from the Shift toes and away from talski. Accordingly the clutch closed after the start of a swing and at End of swing opened. So that the damping only temporarily effective.

When clutch 40 is closed, the front one comes Damper plate 12 engages the rear damper plate 14. The upper part 62 and the lower part 72 clamp the rear damper plate 14 and the parallel plates 24 and 26 of the front damper plate 12 firmly together. The friction between the front damper plate 12 and the rear Damper plate 14 couples the damper plates together for as long as like the skier on the clutch housing 60 a Exerts force which is greater than the preload of the Clamping device 44. Accordingly, when closed Clutch 40 the front damper plate 12 and the rear Damper plate 14 "locked" together so that it is practical form a single elongated plate, which itself moves in the longitudinal direction of the ski 2 when the ski 2 sags. The one on the bottom of the middle area 63 and the top of the central region 73 applied Coating 70 reduces friction between the clutch housing and the parallel plates 24 and 26 if the Execute plates 12 and 14 longitudinally. In order to the damper plates 12 and 14 are freely movable in the longitudinal direction, when the ski vibrates. The attenuator 30, which arranged on the front of the ski 2 causes dissipation the vibration energy when the damper plates Move 12, 14 in the longitudinal direction (see Fig. 1).

The attenuator 30 can be on the ski in any way between the front and rear fasteners 18 and 20 may also be arranged on the clutch 40, as follows described using a further embodiment of the invention becomes. In addition, the attenuator in any shape, from any material or as any Mechanism be designed such that when the Skis an energy dissipation occurs. In particular, it can Attenuator in the form of a viscoelastic material, which is deformed under pressure or shear, in shape wet or dry overlapped plates or in the form of a hydraulic piston-cylinder shock absorber.

It should be emphasized that the others described below Embodiments of the invention for like elements same reference numerals as used in Figs. 1 to 5 become.

6, which is a sectional view a further embodiment of the present invention represents. In this embodiment, the jig 44 'designed as a pneumatic bellows. To the To be able to accommodate pneumatic bellows, there is the adjustment part 50 'only from the threaded section 52'. Moreover this embodiment shows an alternative or additional Attenuator. In this context is a damping-effective elastomer 34 on the top and / or bottom the rear plate 14 or on the underside of the parallel plate 24 and the top of the plate 26 arranged. The damping elastomer 34 can be the damping member 30 replace, or it can in addition to the attenuator 30th be arranged to provide additional dissipation of the vibrational energy to effect.

7 to 9, a further embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment is a clutch housing 25 of a clutch 80 a integral part of a front damper plate 90 and one rear damper plate 100. One end extends here the rear damper plate 100 to the front damper plate 90 and overlaps it. The overlapping sections the front damper plate 90 and the rear Damper plate 100 each form a lower part 92 and a upper part 102 of the clutch housing 85.

The embodiment shown in FIGS. 7 to 9 is similar in many ways the first embodiment shown in the 1 to 6 is shown. The lower part 92 has one substantially flat central area 93 and L-shaped shoulders 94. The L-shaped shoulders 94 have a vertical section 96 and a horizontal section 98. The horizontal section 98 can be engaged effectively bring with a lip 108 of the upper part 102.

The upper part 102 has a central area 103 and Side parts 106. The central region 106 comprises a threaded bore 104, which is dimensioned so that the threaded portion 52 of the adjusting part 50 can be screwed in. The side parts 106 have lips 108, which in the same way, as it is based on the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 6 has been described in effective engagement with the lower part 92 can be brought.

A material 110 with a high coefficient of friction is on the Underside of the central region 103 along that section the rear damper plate 100, which the lower part 92 of the front damper plate 90 overlaps. This friction material 110 serves the upper part 102 of FIG rear damper plate 100 on the lower part 92 of the front Damper plate 90 "locks" when clutch 80 is closed is described in detail below becomes.

A coating 114 with a low coefficient of friction (e.g. Teflon) is on the top of the middle area 103 attached to the friction between the sole of the ski boot and reduce the upper part 102. In corresponding There is a coating 114 on the underside of the central region 93 attached to the friction between lower the lower part 92 and the top of the ski.

In the embodiment of FIGS. 7 to 9, the clutch 80 closed by applying a force to the clutch housing 85 is exerted, which is exerted by the clamping device 44 Preload exceeds. When the preload is overcome presses the underside of the friction material 110 against the Top of the middle area 93. Be accordingly the upper part 102 and the lower part 92 together "locked" so that it is practically a single long plate that move lengthways when the ski is moving sags. The coating 114, which is on the bottom of the central region 93 is reduced Friction between the top of the ski (or one on top of it) intended material with low friction) and the lower Part 92 when the damper plates 90 and 100 are relative to Move ski 2 lengthways. An attenuator 30 is on Front end of the ski arranged (as shown in Fig. 1 is) to cause a dissipation of the vibration energy.

10 and 11, to which reference is now made another embodiment of the present invention shown. In this embodiment, the clutch housing 140 a clutch 130 with the rear damper plate 141 integrated. That end of the rear damper plate 141, which extends to a front damper plate 120 and this overlaps essentially has two parallel plates with an upper part 142 and a lower one Part 152 of the clutch housing, these parts one Form a slot for receiving the front damper plate 120. There is also an attenuator within the clutch housing 140 160 arranged so that an integrated clutch-damper arrangement is formed.

The embodiment shown in FIGS. 10 and 11 is similar in many respects the embodiment of FIG. 1 to 6. Here, the upper part 142 again includes one middle area 143 and side parts 146. The middle area 143 has a threaded bore 144, which is so dimensioned is that it has the threaded portion 52 of the adjusting member 50 is able to record. The side parts 146 have lips 148, which is in effective engagement with the lower part 152 let bring.

The lower part 152 has a substantially flat middle area 153 and L-shaped shoulders 154. The L-shaped shoulders 154 have vertical sections 156 and Horizontal sections 158. The horizontal section 158 leaves in effective engagement with the lips 148 of the upper part 142, in the same way as it is based on the Embodiment of FIGS. 1 to 6 has been explained.

An attenuator 160 comprises an elastomeric material, which on the underside of the upper part 142 and on the top of the lower part 152 or on the top and bottom the front damper plate 120 is attached. The Length of the attenuator 160 can be according to the degree of desired damping vary. Here, the measure of Attenuation increases with increasing length of the attenuator 160. In addition, there is a coating 134 with a low coefficient of friction (e.g. Teflon) on the top of the lower one Part 142 and the underside of the lower part 152 intended. The coating 134 causes low friction Area between the upper part 142 of the clutch housing 140 and a ski boot, as well as between the lower part 152 the clutch housing 140 and the top of the ski (or a low-friction material). As in the embodiment of FIGS. 7 and 8 allows coating 134 that the rear damper plate 141 in the longitudinal direction moves when the ski 2 bends. It was on it noted that in this embodiment both Front end of the front damper plate 140 as well as the rear End of the rear damper plate 141 attached to the ski are. The rear end of the front damper plate 120 and form the front end of the rear damper plate 141 free, overlapping ends.

As with the embodiments described above, the Coupling 130 closed when the tensioner is preloaded is overcome. Once the pretensioning of the jig 44 is exceeded, the attenuator 160 between the front damper plate 120 and the rear Damper plate 141 pressurized. Accordingly become the rear damper plate 141 and the front damper plate 120 "locked" together, making them practical form a single long plate, with the attenuator 160 is arranged between the damper plates. It is recognizable that the attenuator 160 due to shear stress has a dampening effect when the ski 2 bends.

Another embodiment is shown in FIGS of the present invention. In this embodiment becomes an attenuator and stiffener 30 ' actuated by a clutch, as shown schematically in FIG. 13 is shown. This embodiment also has a modified one Clutch 170, a rear damper plate 180 and a front damper plate 175.

The rear end of the rear damper plate 180 is on the ski 2 by means of a fastening element or an anchor 20 attached. The rear damper plate 180 extends in Forward direction through a slot in the heel binding part through and continues under the ski boot 4 and the toe binding part 6. The toe binding part 6 is on top of the rear damper plate 180 arranged. A fastener is in front of the toe-side Binding part 6 arranged and holds the rear damper plate 180 in the transverse direction and limits the movement in Vertical direction. There is also a long slot in the rear damper plate 180 provided to the front damper plate 175 to record. The slot allows that the rear damper plate 180 moves in the longitudinal direction, when the ski 2 bends. Along their entire length the rear damper plate 180 forms a clutch housing 172 for clutch 170. Here is the rear damper plate 180 in the form of a pair of two substantially parallel Formed plates that form a slot in which the front damper plate 175 protrudes.

The front damper plate 175 is with the combined damping and stiffening system 30 'connected and extended backwards through the long slit in the back Damper plate 180 through to an area approximately below the toe area of the ski boot 4.

As shown above and shown in Fig. 14, has the rear damper plate 180 essentially a pair parallel plates. The upper parallel plate forms one upper part 182 of the clutch housing 172, while the lower Plate a lower part 192 of clutch housing 172 forms. The upper part 182 essentially has one flat middle area 184 and two side parts 186. One Threaded bore 190 is in the central area 184 for receiving an adjusting part 200 arranged below is described. A lip 188 is along the bottom edge integrally formed on the side parts 186. The lips 188 essentially form areas extending horizontally inward. The The top of the lips 188 can be placed against the bottom Bring part 192 as shown below.

The lower part 192 has a substantially flat middle area 194 and L-shaped shoulders 196. The horizontal section the L-shaped shoulder 196 can be Bring the system to lip 188. As soon as the top Part 182 and the lower part 192 pushed away from each other the horizontal section of the L-shaped Shoulder 196 for contact with lip 188.

A material 220 with a high coefficient of friction is on the Bottom of the central area 184 along that Section of the rear damper plate 180 arranged, which the front damper plate 175 overlaps. The friction material 220 serves the rear damper plate 180 with the front damper plate 175 to "lock" when the clutch 170 is closed, as detailed below is pictured.

A waterproof cover 222 encloses the outside the rear damper plate 180 to the rear damper plate 180 to protect the outside, for example against snow, ice and water.

The adjusting part 200 essentially has a threaded section 202 and an annular pressure member 206. On the Top of the threaded portion 202 is a slot 204 formed to allow rotation of the adjusting member 200. When the threaded portion 202 is rotated so that it moves in the downward direction, the pressure member 206 also moved in the downward direction. The downward movement of the pressure member 206 increases the preload, which from the jig 44 to the clutch housing 172 is exercised. In a corresponding way, the on Coupling housing 172 exerted by the tensioning device 44 Bias is reduced when the threaded portion 202 is rotated so will move upward. Between the pressure member 206 and the threaded opening 190, an O-ring can be arranged to protect the clutch 170 from the outside, for example against snow, ice and water.

In the embodiment of FIGS. 12 to 15, the clutch 170 closed when one on the clutch housing 172 Force acts, which one caused by the clamping device 44 Preload exceeds. Once the preload is overcome the bottom of the friction material 220 comes to rest with the top of the front damper plate 175. Accordingly the front damper plate 175 and the rear Damper plate 180 "locked" together so that it practically form a single long plate, which is in Moves lengthwise when the ski bends. It should be emphasized that the front damper plate 175 and the friction material 220 recessed areas 176 and 221 can have, so that they interlock at the wells engage and form a "dog clutch" as in Fig. 18A is shown. Such a dog clutch can be larger Forces are transmitted as smooth, like one another Feedback interacting surfaces.

At the front end of the ski is a combined damping and Stiffening member 30 'arranged (as in FIGS. 12 and 13 is shown), on the one hand a dissipation of the vibration energy and on the other hand a stiffening of the ski too cause. Both the attenuator and the stiffener can be adjustable. Accordingly, it can Degree of damping and stiffening, which may occur can be changed adjustable.

It should be emphasized that the stiffening member in the first Line the ski stiffened while the attenuator one Damping causes. For example, the stiffening member be designed in the form of a coil spring. alternative can be a single element that has both vibration damping and stiffens the ski in exchange provided with separate attenuators and stiffeners his. For example, a urethane compression spring can be used which are made from a bulged tube made of urethane rubber consists. A urethane compression spring has a dampening and stiffening effect, when a force acts on the compression spring that increases leads to an outward bulging of the pipe wall.

Otherwise, only one stiffening member (e.g. a spring) without an attenuator. In this Trap the ski is only stiffened when the clutch is closed.

18 shows a further embodiment of the invention for automatic control of both the vibrations of the ski and the rigidity of the ski. A vibration and stiffening control system 300, which is arranged on the ski 2 is has a toe-side binding part 6 and a heel side Binding part 8 for holding the shoe on the Ski. The vibration and stiffening control system 300 has a front damper plate 302 and a rear damper plate 304. The rear damper plate 304 is on the ski 2 by means of a fastening or anchoring element 306 attached and extends forward through an opening in the heel-side binding part 8 under the toe-side Binding part 6. A shown in Fig. 19 Longitudinal slot 308 extends in the front area of the rear Damper plate 304. The rear area of the front Damper plate 302 and a fastening part 310 extend through slot 308 into the ski 2. The fastener 310 prevents vertical and transverse movement damper plates 302 and 304, however, is sufficient loose to allow longitudinal movement when moving the ski bends. A friction reducing plate 312 is below the toe-side binding part 6 on the ski 2 arranged, and a clutch system, such as that in FIG. 12th to 15 shown clutch system 170 is slidable arranged on the plate 312. The toe-side shown Binding part 6 is a type with an anti-friction arrangement, which has a movable toe plate 314. The Toe plate 314 is rotatable on an arch path, the center of which within the front area of the toe binding part 6 lies so that the toe plate 314 in Moves across the ski 2 when moving from the toe area of the ski boot is taken.

The vibration and stiffening control system 300 also includes the spring and damper assembly 320. As shown in FIG the arrangement 320 shown is a urethane spring 322, which Rigid end links 326 and 328 and a hydraulic damper 330. The order 320 is by means of a fastening element 321, which is inserted into the ski 2 through an opening 323, attached to ski 2.

The hydraulic damper 330 has a closed housing 332 with a cylinder 334, which with a hydraulic Fluid 336, e.g. Silicone oil, is filled. The cylinder 334 is cylindrical and encloses a cylindrical inside Piston 338, the one with a damper or piston rod 340 is connected. Piston 338 has fluid flow openings 342 sufficient size and number to accommodate the movement of the piston 338 corresponding to that on the damper rod 340 to allow acting axial force. Several tours 346 ensure the intended axial movement path of the damper rod 340. The rod 340 extends through a axial longitudinal opening in the spring 322 and ends a flattened end portion 344 that has a bore 348 having. The front plate member 302 ends in a yoke 350 at its front end and possesses in both parts of the Yokes 352 formed holes. The holes 352 are with the bore 348 aligned coaxially, and a fastener connects the plate member 302 to the damper rod 340th

The hydraulic damper 330 is a double-acting hydraulic Damper, which dampens vibrations when the Piston in cylinder 332 moves forward and backward performs.

Urethane spring 322 is preferably an adipren urethane spring. Adipren urethane has a certain amount of internal damping and stiffens only slightly in cold temperatures. The stiffness is constant down to -18 ° C. Then she stiffens by 1% per 50 ° C. The spring cannot corrode and is inexpensive.

The spring 322 is arranged on the damper rod 340 and acts as a spring parallel to damper 330. One as spring 322 suitable adipren urethane spring is a urethane spring with Hardness measure 95, an outer diameter of 19 mm, an inner diameter of 5.8 mm and a length of 17 mm and one Spring rate of 800 N / mm. This spring can have a maximum force of 2000 N.

If the ski 2 bends in Fig. 18 such that the The middle area of the ski 2 is lower than the ends of the ski 2, rod 340 compresses urethane spring 322 where the disks 328 and 326 are pressed against each other. The spring stiffens the ski. The rod 340 moves also in the axial direction through the guides 346 and pushes the piston 338 to the right. When moving of the piston 328, the hydraulic fluid flows through the Openings 342. If the ski has a counterflex executes, the compressive stress of the spring 322 is reduced, and piston 338 is moved with rod 340 in the reverse direction emotional.

A modification of the spring and damper arrangement 320 with a modified one Spring and damper assembly 360 is shown in FIG. 21 shown. As far as elements in FIG. 21 elements in FIG. 20 correspond, they have the same reference numerals. However, that is Urethane spring 322 omitted, and instead is a spring arranged in the cylinder 334. Accordingly, one is Spring 362 housed within cylinder 334 in front of piston 338. The spring 362 preferably consists of several Disc springs stacked on top of each other. The front disc springs 364 are arranged sixfold in parallel, and the rear ones Disc springs 366 are arranged five times in parallel. The Disc springs 364 are arranged in series with the disc springs 366. The disc springs are well suited to high loads take up with little space, and the rigidity of the Suspension depends on the number of spring plates in each Stack.

22 to 24, in which a further embodiment of the present invention is shown. In this embodiment, an automatic Switching device that a hydraulic damper and spring assembly 2030 becomes effective or ineffective. It is highlighted that this embodiment of the invention over those described above, operated by a clutch Systems is advantageous. It is often difficult to deal with to transmit large forces to a clutch, as in one Swing maneuvers occur. In addition, on the coupling surfaces adhering water the plates against each other let slip, so that the effect with which one Can switch attenuator or stiffener on and off, is severely impaired.

A schematic representation of a damping and stiffening system 2010 according to this embodiment of the Invention is shown in Fig. 22. The ski 2 shown has a cushioning and stiffening system 2020, which is connected to the top of the ski. The stiffening system 2010 includes a damper device 2018, a stiffening device 2020 and a switching device 2012. The damping device 2018 and the stiffening device 2020 work in parallel with each other and in series with the Switching device 2012, which the damping device 2018 and the stiffening device 2020 effective or ineffective makes.

The damping device 2018 is in an effective state to dampen vibrations and an ineffective condition to reduce the damping of the ski 2. In a corresponding Way, the stiffening device 2020 has one effective state for stiffening the ski 2 against bending and an ineffective condition to reduce stiffening of the ski. In case of reduction of stiffening of the ski 2, the ski either cannot be stiffened or the stiffness of the ski can become lower than the stiffness, which with an effective stiffening device 2020 occurs.

The damping device 2018 and the stiffening device 2020 are effective with the switching device 2012 coupled. The switching device 2012 comprises a threshold value device 2014 and a switching element 2016. The threshold device is acted upon by an input I. The Input I can be an input force, for example. The Switching element 2016 has one effective and one ineffective Status. If the switching element 2016 in its effective Condition, it switches the damping device 2018 and stiffener 2020 in its operative states. The active state is denoted by C. If the switching element 2016 is in its ineffective state, it brings the Damping device 2018 and the stiffening device 2020 in their ineffective states. The ineffective condition is called D.

When the input I reaches a threshold, the Threshold device 2014 the switching element 2016 either in the effective or ineffective state. If the entrance I is below the threshold (or dependent construction above the threshold) the switching element 2016 in each case in the other state, i.e. the ineffective or the effective state. The entrance I can be a minimum force that the switching element 2016 depending on the construction. If the input I one The threshold value device enables the threshold value to be reached 2014 a switching of the switching element 2016, so that this one of the two states, effective or ineffective state, occupies.

23 shows a damping and stiffening system 2010, which is arranged on a ski 2, together with a toe-side binding part 6 and a heel-side Ski binding part 8. The toe-side binding part 6 and that heel-side binding part 8 hold a ski boot 4 on Ski 2.

The damping and stiffening system 2010 essentially has a hydraulic damper and spring arrangement 2030 and a switching element 2130. The damper and spring arrangement 2030 has a longitudinally extending rod part 2050, a cylinder part 2080 and tendons 2076A and 2076 B, as shown in Fig. 24.

The rod part 2050 has a fixed end 2052 and one free end 2054 and extends essentially from one Area behind the heel-side binding part 8 to in an area in front of the toe-side binding part 6, as in Fig. 23 can be seen. The rod part 2050 has one Locking part 2056, which is arranged at the fixed end 2052 and an investment area 2058, which is in the middle arranged between the fixed end 2052 and the free end 2054 is (Figs. 25 and 26). The locking part 2056 engages in an anchoring member 2040, which is attached to ski 2 is fastened by means of a fastening element 2032. The Anchoring member 2040 has a recess 2042, which is dimensioned to accommodate the locking part 2056 (Fig. 23). The locking part 2056 is with the anchoring element 2040 engaged so that the fixed end 2052 relative to ski 2 in the longitudinal and transverse directions of ski 2 is held. However, the rod part can be 2050 µm rotate its longitudinal axis as described in more detail below becomes. The contact area 2058 of the rod part 2050 is essentially in an area below the toe area the ski boot 4 arranged. The investment area 2058 has a substantially semicircular cross section with a flat surface 2059 (Figs. 25 and 26). The investment area 2058 forms part of the switching device 2130 that is described in more detail below.

As stated above, the rod part extends 2050 essentially from an area behind the heel Binding part in an area in front of the toe-side Binding part. The rod part 2050 goes through one Slot in the heel-side binding part 8, passes through the switching device 2130 and then goes through a slot in the toe-side binding part 6 (Fig. 23). The free end 2054 of the switching element 2050 is sufficient up to the cylinder link 2080 in front of the toe-side binding part 6 and thus forms a hydraulic damper and spring arrangement 2030, as described below.

The free end 2054 will now be described with reference to FIG. 24. The free end 2054 of the rod part 2050 essentially has a U-shaped channel 2060, a front rod-fixed Piston 2066A, a rear rod-fixed piston 2066B and a floating piston 2070. The U-shaped channel 2060 releases fluid from the space behind the rear piston 2066B to the space in front of the front piston 2066A and vice versa. The U-shaped channel 2060 is rotatably adjustable between an open position and a closed position, so that a Rotary slide valve is formed. If the hydraulic Fluid can flow through channel 2060 (i.e. in the Open position), the damper and spring assembly 2030 is in its ineffective condition. If, on the other hand, the hydraulic fluid is prevented from flowing through channel 2060 (i.e. in the closed position), the damper and spring arrangement 2030 in effective condition. A flow of hydraulic fluid through the U-shaped channel 2060 will be discussed in more detail below explained.

The pistons 2066A and 2066B are generally disk-shaped and each have an axially penetrating opening 2068. The openings 2068 allow the hydraulic fluid to flow through through the pistons 2066 A and 2066 B to provide damping enable, as explained below. The floating one arranged piston 2070 is at the free rod end 2054 a position approximately in the middle between the rod-fixed Pistons 2066A and 2066B arranged. The floating one Piston 2070 is substantially disc-like piston 2066A and 2066B, and has O-ring seals 2072. The O-ring seals 2072 prevent the hydraulic Fluid can flow past the piston 2070.

A bore 2062 is at the end region of the free end 2054 educated. The bore 2062 is dimensioned so that it is a Spring for producing one acting on the rod part 2050 Torque can absorb, as explained below becomes.

The hydraulic fluid is preferably Silicone oil because this is a suitable one at low temperature Has viscosity.

The damper and spring assembly 2030 by means of the Tendons 2076A and 2076B stiffen the ski 2. The tendon 2076B is between the floating piston 2070 and the rear fixed piston 2066B. In accordingly, the jig 2076A is between the floating piston 2070 and the front fixed piston 2066A arranged. The jigs have 2076A and 2076B preferably in the form of stiffening springs, for example it is a matter of several sentences from each other stacked disc springs as shown in Fig. 24. 24 shows that the tensioners 2076A and 2076B each consist of six disc springs. there are three backward-facing disc springs against three forward agile disc springs set. Basically, too other fixtures, including domed ones Spring washers and compression springs.

The cylinder member 2080 essentially consists of a housing 2086, a mounting plate 2088, a first guide floor 2100 and a second guide shelf 2110. The mounting plate 2088 forms a mounting surface for the bracket of the housing 2086 on the ski 2, with laterally arranged fastening elements 2034 (Fig. 23) can be used.

Housing 2086 has an opening for receiving at one end of the free end 2054 of the rod part 2050. The guides 2100 and 2110 support the rod part 2050 inside of the housing in 2086. The first guide 2100 is inside an annular recess in the housing 2086 and has a rubber seal 2104 and a recess 2102.

The seal 2104 prevents leakage of the hydraulic Fluids from the cylinder member 2080 and serves as a bearing surface for the rod part 2050. The recess 2102 forms one Passage for hydraulic fluid, so that this in the channel 2060 of the rod part 2050 enter or from this Can escape. The second guide 2110 is also fixed within an annular recess in the housing 2086. The second tour 2010 leads the end area of the free end 2054 and has a rubber seal 2112 to leakage of hydraulic fluid from the cylinder member 2080 to prevent and a storage area for the rod part To form in 2050.

The first guide floor 2100 and the rear bar fixed Pistons 2066B define a first chamber 2090. The rear one rod-fixed piston 2066B and the floating piston 2070 delimit a second chamber 2092. The floating piston 2070 and the front rod-fixed piston 2066A delimit one third chamber 2094; and the front rod-fixed piston 2066A and the second guide floor 2110 delimit a fourth Chamber 2096. The recess 2102 forms a passage for that between the channel 2060 and the first chamber 2090 exchanged fluid.

A torsion spring 2120 and a force adjuster 2122 are arranged in front of the second guide 2110 (Fi.g 24). The setting link 2122 is provided on one in housing 2086 Opening arranged and has a bore 2124, which so is sized to accommodate one end of spring 2120 can. The other end of spring 2120 is from the bore 2062 of the rod part 2050, as mentioned above. The spring 2120 acts on the rod member 2050 with a Torsional force and forms a threshold device for one Switching device 2130. The measure of the torsion "preload", which acts on the rod part 2050, is determined by rotation of the setting member 2122. The Measure of the force acting on the rod part 2050 the magnitude of a torsional force exerted on the rod member 2050 must act before the damper and spring assembly takes effect (i.e. a force threshold is determined). Details of this effect are explained below. It should be emphasized that the bias is essentially about half the weight of the skier.

25 and 26 is now the switching device 2130. 25 shows the switching device 2130 in a "off" position or in an inactive state while 26 the switching device 2130 in a position "on" or in an effective state. The switching device 2130 consists essentially of a base part 2140 and a Rotary actuator 2150. The base 2140 has a pair vertical slots 2142 and a concave recess 2144. The concave recess 2144 is for receiving a stop area 2058 of the rod part 2050. The Rotary actuator 2150 has a support surface 2152, legs 2154 and 2156, an O-ring 2155 and an inclined stop surface 2158. The support surface 2152 is in contact with the sole of the ski boot 4, preferably on the toe area of the ski boot 4. The legs 2154 and 2156 are dimensioned so that they in Fit slots 2142. O-ring 2155 forms a seal to prevent water from entering slots 2142. The inclined stop surface 2158 interacts with the flat surface 2059 of the stop area 2158 for rotating the rod part 2050 together. In the illustrated embodiment the rod link is rotated by approximately 45 °. By (not shown) attacks can be prevented that Rotary actuator 2150 can emerge from the slots 2142.

The function of the damping and stiffening system 2010 will now be explained primarily with reference to FIGS. 24 to 26. When the ski 2 bends, the free end moves 2054 of the pole part 2050 relative to the ski 2. The free end 2054 works with the hydrofluid and tensioning device 2076A, 2076B for damping and stiffening the ski 2 together, if the damping and stiffening arrangement 2030 is effective. If the damping and stiffening arrangement 2030 is ineffective, the movement of the free At the end of 2054 neither dampen nor stiffen the Ski 2.

The damping and spring assembly 2030 is in hers ineffective state when channel 2060 is in its open position occupies and thus the hydraulic fluid allows free flow through channel 2060, as in Fig. 24 is shown. Channel 2060 communicates here simultaneously with the recess 2102 (and over this recess with the first chamber 2090) and with the fourth chamber 2096. Accordingly, hydraulic fluid can flow freely between the first chamber 2090 and the fourth chamber 2096 become. If, for example, the rod part Moving forward in 2050 enlarges chamber 2090 their volume, while the fourth chamber will decrease their volume in 2096. This results in fluid from the fourth chamber 2096 flows to the first chamber 2090 through the channel 2060. Because the fluid has a very small flow path Resistance flows through, only a negligible amount of the fluid the orifice 2068 of the rod-fixed piston Flow through 2066A. Accordingly, no noteworthy Damping occur due to the hydraulic flow. Since also the floating piston 2070 remains free to move the jig 2076B in the second chamber 2092 does not be squeezed together. Accordingly, the jig 2076B the ski 2 does not stiffen when it bends cause.

If now the rod part 2050 is similar in itself moving backwards, the volume of the first decreases Chamber 2090, while the fourth chamber 2096 increases its volume. As a result, hydraulic fluid from the Chamber 2090 via channel 2060 into fourth chamber 2096 overflows. Only a negligible amount of Fluid the orifice 2068 of the rod-fixed piston 2066B flow through, since the fluid always has the path of least resistance will flow through. Accordingly, none appreciable damping occur due to the fluid flow. Since the floating piston 2070 is also freely movable remains, the jig 2076A can be in the chamber 2094 not to be squeezed. Accordingly, the Clamping device 2076A no increase in rigidity of the ski 2.

The damping and spring assembly 2030 is ineffective State when the switching device 2130 the in Fig. 25 occupies the position shown. In this ineffective state is the rotary actuator 2150 in its upper Position, and the inclined stop surface 2158 is not in contact with the flat surface 2059 of the stop area 2058.

To the damping and spring assembly 2030 in its effective To bring state, the switching device 2130 in the switchable position are moved. For this the skier has to apply a force to the switching device 2130 (and thus exert a torsional force on the rod part 2050). The force acting on the switching device 2130 must be greater than the pre-tension caused by the torsion spring 2120 is effected. In particular, the skier must exert a downward force on the support surface 2152, in order to exert a torque on the rod part 2050, which is big enough, the preload of the torsion spring To overcome 2120; with that the rod part 2050 in the position rotated in Fig. 26. The rod part 2050 must - strictly speaking - turn so far that the Flat surface 2059 of the stop area 2058 on the inclined Stop surface 2158 of the rotary actuator 2150 rests.

If the damper and spring assembly 2030 in its effective Channel 2060 is in the closed position and accordingly does not communicate with the recess 2102, which leads to the first chamber 2090. Accordingly no fluid can flow there. In addition, the floating Piston 2070 hydraulically blocked in its position. If the rod member 2050 moves forward and the Damper and spring assembly 2030 in its effective condition is both damping and stiffening. The jig 2076B in the second Chamber 2092 compressed when the rear bar is fixed Piston 2066B towards the floating piston 2070 (which is blocked in its position) moved. This leads to an increase in the rigidity of the ski 2. Also the front rod-fixed piston 2066A moves in the direction the second guide 2110. Because the hydraulic fluid cannot flow through channel 2060, it must pass through flow through the opening 2068 of the rod-fixed piston 2066A. This forced flow of the fluid through the Opening 2068 dampens the ski 2. Because the piston 2066B itself towards the (blocked) floating Moving piston 2070, fluid is similarly moved through the Opening 2068 of piston 2066B fixed to the rod, see above that additional damping is effected.

When the rod part 2050 moves in the reverse direction and damper and spring assembly 2030 in its operative Condition is, occur in a similar manner as described above both damping and stiffening on. In this case, the jig 2076A in that of the third chamber 2094 compressed when the front rod fixed pistons 2066A towards the (blocked) floating piston 2070 moves. So that will the rigidity of the ski 2 increases. It also shifts the rear rod-fixed piston 2066B towards the first Guide 2100. Since the fluid is not through the channel 2060 of the Rod part 2050 can flow, it will through the opening 2068 of the rod-fixed piston 2066B. This forced flow of the fluid through the opening 2068 to dampen the ski 2. Because the rod-fixed piston 2066A towards the (blocked) floating piston 2070 moves, fluid is similarly through the Opening 2068 of rod-fixed piston 2068A is pushed, see above that additional damping is effected.

If the skier glides on a straight track, will be Almost half the weight transferred to the two skis, and the switching devices 2150 thus remain in their unactuated 25 accordingly Torsion spring 2120 the respective rod part 2050 with a Biasing, so that fluid between the first chamber 2090 and the fourth chamber 2096 can be. As soon as the skier starts to swing, it relieves the skis. The switching devices remain 2150 in the unactuated position according to FIG. 25. This has the consequence that the channel 2060 remains in the open position and fluid between the first chamber 2090 and the fourth chamber 2096 can overflow. During the swing, the weight of the Skier on the Talski as well as in the forward direction (from Heel to toe area). This leads to, that the switching device 2130 below the toe area of the skier's ski boot with sufficient strength is applied to the bias of the torsion spring 2120 to overcome and the rod part 2050 in the position of Fig. 26 to rotate. Here, the rotary actuator 2150 in Pushed downward direction, which in turn causes that on Rod part 2050 has a torque which is sufficient is large to overcome the bias of the torsion spring 2120. The rotation of the rod member 2050 causes the Channel 2060 merges into the closed position in which the channel 2060 no fluid flow between the first chamber 2090 and the fourth chamber in 2096. It will be the floating one Piston 2070 blocked in its position. So one leads Movement of the bar part 2050 (in the forward or backward direction) relative to the floating piston 2070 that the tensioners 2076A and 2076B are compressed and the rigidity of the ski 2 is increased. Moreover causes this through the openings 2068 in the rod-fixed Pistons 2066A and 2066B urged hydraulic fluid to dampen of the ski 2.

Fig. 27 shows a modified embodiment of the hydraulic Damper and spring arrangement. The hydraulic Damper and spring assembly 2030 'essentially exists from a rod part 2050 ', a cylinder part 2080', clamping devices 2170 and a shut-off valve 2180. As far as parts of FIG. 27 correspond to parts of FIG. 24, they have the same reference numerals as in Fig. 24. The damper and stiffening arrangement 2030 'is generally below the Toe area of the ski boot arranged. The rod part 2050 'is similar to the rod part 2050. However, the rod part has 2050 'no U-shaped channel for hydraulic fluid. Instead, there is a bypass channel 2174 next to the cylinder part 2080 'is provided for fluid exchange, as further below is explained. In addition, the rod part 2050 does not Rotational movement with respect to its longitudinal axis when the damper and stiffening arrangement 2030 'effective or ineffective is switched. Instead, the shutoff valve is 2180 provided to the damper and stiffener assembly 2030 ' to switch effective or ineffective, as explained below becomes. The free end 2054 'of the rod part 2050' has rod-proof pistons 2066A and 2066B, also a floating piston 2070 as described above.

The cylinder part 2080 'essentially consists of a housing 2086 ', a first guide floor 2100' and a second Guide floor 2110. The cylinder part 2080 'also has the above-mentioned channel 2174. The guide floors 2100 'and 2110 support the rod part 2050' within the Housing 2086 '.

Guide floor 2100 'and rod-fixed piston 2066B delimit a first chamber 2090. The rod-fixed piston 2066B and that of the floating piston 2070 limit one second chamber 2092. The floating piston 2070 and the rod-fixed pistons 2066A define a third chamber; and the rod-fixed piston 2066A and the second guide plate 2110 delimit a fourth chamber 2096. The bypass channel 2174 leaves hydraulic fluid between the first chamber 2090 and overflow the fourth chamber 2096 when the damper and Spring arrangement 2030 'is ineffective.

The tensioning device 2170 preferably consists of a Coil spring pair housed in chambers 2092 and 2094 is. The chuck 2170 increases the Stiffness of the ski when it is bent and when the damper and spring assembly 2030 'activated is. If necessary, there are also other clamping devices Suited.

The check valve 2180 can block the flow of hydraulic fluid Release and shut off through the bypass duct 2174. A preferred one Embodiment of the check valve 2180 is in the 28 and 29 are shown. 28 shows the shut-off valve 2180 in its on position or open position, 29, the shut-off valve 2180 in the off position or closed position.

The check valve 2180 consists essentially of a Switching element 2182 and a tensioning device 2190. Das Switching element 21182 has a support area 2184 and one lower area 2186. Support area 2184 is in contact with the sole of the ski boot, preferably on the toe area. The lower region 2186 has an annular shape Recess 2188 and is dimensioned so that it fits into a recess 2176, which is formed in the bypass channel 2174, fits. Seals 2185 are provided to prevent hydraulic leakage Fluid from channel 2174 and leakage of the to avoid hydraulic fluids in the recess 2176. A clamping device h 2190, preferably in the form of a finger spring, applies the switching element 2182 in the upward direction. The measure of the tensioner 2190 on the Switching element 2182 determines the force exerted in the upward direction the measure of a downward force applied must be switched to link 2182 before the damper and spring assembly 2030 'is operative. As above has been described, the bias of the tensioning device 2190 preferably at half the weight of the skier. Basically, the clamping device can also be used in other Form, including in the form of Compression springs. In addition, the pretensioning of the tensioning device 2190 adjustable.

33 and 34 will now be considered. By turning controlled shutoff valve 2180 'is an alternative Design for the shut-off valve. The rotary controlled Shutoff valve 2180 'is designed to prevent rotation of the ski reacts instead of to one through the ski boot exerted force or load, as is the case with the shut-off valve 2180 according to FIGS. 28 to 29 is the case. The shut-off valve 2180 'essentially consists of a switching element 2200 and a tensioning element 2206. The switching element 2200 consists of essentially from an inertial mass or a flywheel part 2202 and an axle part 2204. The flywheel part 2202 is arranged essentially parallel to the ski level. The Axle part 2204 is received in a recess 2176 which is formed in a bypass channel 2174. Preferably owns the clamping element 2206 in the form of a one-sided hanging Centering spring, as shown in Fig. 34. The clamping element 2206 is on the axis part 2204 and on the Bypass channel 2147 connected surrounding housing. The clamping element 2206 acts on a switching element 2200 in the direction of one "triggered" position, in the fluid through the channel 2174 can flow as shown in FIG. 34. When a Skiers start to swing, the flow path the fluid is blocked by channel 2174 (this is the "switched on" position). So that a damping and Stiffening arrangement 2130 'now "activated". The clamping element 2206 places the switching element 2200 in the open position ("triggered") position around once the angular acceleration ceases. The inertial mass of the flywheel, the dimensioning of the Springs and the degree of damping or throttling of the oil in the Shutoff valve 2180 determine the dynamic response of the Valves 2180 '.

It should be emphasized that the foregoing only a possible embodiment has been described based on Rotating movements or turning maneuvers of the ski reacted. Other Embodiments that react to turns or turning maneuvers, are also possible.

The function of the damping and stiffening arrangement 2030 ' will be described below with reference to FIGS. 27 to 29. The Damping and stiffening arrangement 2130 'takes their ineffective State on when switch 2182 is its upper Position occupies (Fig. 28), the open position of the shut-off valve Corresponds to 2180. The hydraulic fluid can now flow through the bypass channel 2174 because the ring-shaped Recess 2188 communicates with the bypass channel 2174. In order to may be the fluid between the first chamber 2090 and the fourth Overflow chamber 2096 when free end 2054 ' of the rod part 2050 'moved relative to the ski. If for example the rod part 2050 'moves in the forward direction, the chamber 2090 increases its volume while the fourth chamber 2096 reduced its volume. As a consequence, that fluid from the fourth chamber 2096 through the bypass channel 2174 flows into the first chamber 2090. Because the fluid flows through a path with very little resistance only a negligible amount of the fluid's opening 2068 of the rod-fixed piston 2066A. Accordingly occurs due to the hydraulic flow through the said No significant damping opening. Since also the floating piston 2070 remains freely movable, the Tensioner 2170 in second chamber 2092 is not compressed. Accordingly, the second jig 2170 in the second chamber 2092 not in the sense of a Stiffen the ski.

If the rod member 2050 'now moves in the reverse direction the first chamber 2090 reduces its volume, while the fourth chamber 2096 increases its volume. This results in hydraulic fluid from the first Chamber 2090 via the bypass duct 2174 into the fourth chamber Overflowed in 2096. Only a negligible amount of Fluids pass through the orifice 2068 of the rod-fixed piston 2066B, because the fluid flows through the path of the least resistance. Accordingly, no significant Damping due to the hydraulic flow through the above Opening occur. There is also the floating piston 2070 remains freely movable, the clamping device 2170 not compressed in the third chamber 2094. Accordingly the tensioning device 2170 does not cause any stiffening of the ski.

The damping and stiffening arrangement 2030 'takes theirs effective state when the switching element 2182 its lower Position (Fig. 29) that the closed position of the shut-off valve Corresponds to 2180. The hydraulic fluid is at one Flow through the bypass channel 2174 prevented because of the annular Recess 2188 not communicated with channel 2174. For this purpose, the lower section was further expanded in 2186 Recess 2176 inserted. To the damper and spring assembly 2030 'must be in their effective state the skier downward on the switching member 2182 Exercise force that is large enough to withstand Clamping device 2190 applied in the upward direction overcome. In the active state, the fluid can pass through the channel 2174 will not flow through, and accordingly the fluid will prevented from moving between the first chamber 2090 and the overflow fourth chamber 2096. This leads to the fact that the floating piston 2070 hydraulically blocked in its position becomes. If the rod part during the effective condition the damper and spring assembly 2030 'in the forward direction is moved, both damping occur a stiffener on. The tensioning device 2170 in of the second chamber 2092 when the rear rod fixed piston 2066B a movement in the direction of the (blocked) floating piston 2070. This increases the rigidity of the ski. In addition, the moves rod-fixed pistons 2066A in the direction of the second guide plate 2110. Because the hydraulic fluid is not through the channel 2174 can flow, it becomes through the opening 2068 of the rod-fixed Piston 2066A pushed. This forced flow of fluid through opening 2068 dampens the ski.

When the rod member 2050 'moves in the reverse direction, while damper and spring assembly 2030 'is effective Condition is, both damping takes place as well a stiffening in a similar form as described above has been. Here, the jig 2170 in the third Chamber 2094 compressed when the front rod-fixed Piston 2066A a movement towards the (blocked) floating piston 2070. This increases the rigidity of the ski. The rod-fixed piston also moves 2066B towards the first guide floor 2100 '. Since that Fluid cannot flow through channel 2174, it will pass through the opening 2068 of the rod-fixed piston 2066B is pushed.

This forced flow of the fluid through the opening 2068 dampens the ski.

As with the embodiment of Figs. 23-26, the weight the skier is shifted to the toe area of the ski boot, when the skier starts to swing. The Switching element 2182, which is usually below the toe area of the ski boot is arranged with a downward force applied which is sufficient to to overcome upward "bias" which of of the chuck 2190 is generated. This leads to the damper and spring assembly 2030 'takes effect. If the Swing has been executed, the weight of the skier shifted away from the toe area of the ski boot, and the acting on the switching element 2182 in the downward direction Force becomes less than that in the upward direction "Preload" generated by the tensioner 2190 becomes. This results in the damper and spring assembly 2030 'goes back to its ineffective state.

Various modifications of the embodiments in FIG. 22 to 27 are within the scope of the invention. For example can the damping and stiffening arrangement modified to a selectively variable damping and / or stiffening to effect. In addition, the local arrangement of the rod part and the cylinder part in the longitudinal direction of the ski be different. For example, the rod part be attached in front of the toe-side binding part and extend rearward while the cylinder member arranged behind the heel-side binding part can be. In addition, the present invention can be modified be that they are just a cushion or just a stiffener causes. In the case of a merely damping system the jig. With one only in the sense of one The openings in the stiffening system rod-fixed piston enlarged so that it passes through Cannot significantly restrict flow, when the pistons move in the hydraulic fluid. Form here the pistons are just an abutment surface for the Jigs.

Another embodiment of the present invention is 30 and 31 shown. This embodiment relates on a ski cushioning system. As shown is a cushioning system 10 'together with a toe-side Binding part 6 and a heel-side ski binding part 8 arranged on a ski 2. The toe-sided Hold binding part 6 and the heel-side binding part 8 a ski boot 4 on the ski 2.

According to this embodiment of the invention, there is the damping system 10 'essentially from a lengthwise direction extended front damper plate 12 ', one in the longitudinal direction extended rear damper plate 14 'and a damping arrangement 2300. The damping arrangement 2300 has in essentially a cylinder part 2310 and a shut-off valve 2330th

The front damper plate 12 'and the rear damper plate 14 'each have a fixed and a free end. On Anchoring or fastening part 18 holds the fixed end the damper plate 12 'on the ski during an anchoring or mounting member 20 the fixed end of the rear damper plate 14 'on the ski. The front damper plate 12 ' is preferably in front of the toe binding part 6 on the ski attached, while the rear damper plate 14 'preferably firmly held behind the heel-side binding part 8 on the ski is. However, the positions of the plates 12 ' and 14 'can also be reversed. The damper plate 12 'extends backwards through a slot in the toe binding part 6 and extends into a cylinder part 2310 into, which attaches to the rear damper plate 14 ' is as explained below. The free end of the Damper plate 12 'consists of a rod part 12A, which has a piston 12B. The rod 12A extends through the cylinder part 2360, which at the free end of the Damper plate 14 '(Fig. 31) is attached. The piston 12B interacts with the hydraulic fluid in the cylinder part 2310, to dampen the ski 2 as described below.

As explained above, the cylinder part 2310 is free End of the rear damper plate 14 'attached. The cylinder part 2310 essentially consists of a housing 2318, a central channel 2312, a first bypass channel 2314 and a second bypass channel 2316. The central channel 2312 is like this dimensioned to receive the rod member 12A with the piston 12B can, as shown in Fig. 31. The first bypass channel 2314 has a shut-off valve 2330. The shut-off valve 2330 is preferably spring loaded and continues to grow described in detail below. The second bypass channel 2316 has a needle valve 2320. The needle valve 2320 has a set screw 2322 for adjusting the amount of fluid, which can flow through.

Two guide trays 2302 and 2306 are each next to each other opposite ends of the central channel 2312 arranged. The guide floors 22302 and 2306 support the rod part 12A within the cylinder part 2310. Seals are 2304 arranged on each guide floor 2302 and 2306 by one Prevent fluid from escaping from cylinder housing 2318 and to serve as a bearing surface for the rod part 12A, when this moves in the longitudinal direction of the ski 2.

The check valve 2330 is preferably in the form of a spring-loaded shut-off valve 2330, as shown in FIG. 28 and Figure 29 and described above. The shut-off valve 2330 is preferably below the ski boot sole arranged in the toe area. If necessary, a bore formed in the shut-off valve 2330 the needle valve Replace 2320. This can be a hole in the shut-off valve 2330, which have a low fluid flow by the check valve 2330, if this is his Occupies the closed position. In addition, a magnetically operated ferrofluidic valve in a single bypass channel Function of the shut-off valve 2330 (i.e. switching between an open position and a closed position of the valve) and take over the function of the needle valve 2320.

The function of the damping system 10 'is now detailed described. The damping arrangement 2300 is ineffective, when the shut-off valve 2330 is in the open position. at In this condition, the hydraulic fluid can flow freely through the first Flow bypass duct 2314. When the piston 12B starts moving executes in the forward or reverse direction, accordingly the movement of the free end of the damper plate 12 ', so the displaced hydraulic fluid flows through the first bypass channel 2314. Only one very much flows through the needle valve 2320 small amount of hydraulic fluid because the fluid is the way of the flows through the least resistance. Accordingly occurs no significant damping.

The damping arrangement 2300 is in its effective operating state, when the shut-off valve 2330 is in its closed position is. When the check valve 2330 is closed, no fluid flow through the first bypass channel 2314. If now the piston 12B moves forward or backward executes the displaced fluid through the needle valve 2320 into the second bypass channel 2316 crowded. The forced flow of hydraulic fluid through the needle valve 2320 dampens the ski 2. The degree of damping can be changed by changing the amount of fluid, which flows through the needle valve 2320. there becomes the adjusting screw 2322 to change the cross section the opening of the needle valve 2320 used.

32 shows yet another embodiment of the invention. The embodiment of Fig. 32 forms a system both for cushioning and stiffening the ski. A Damping and stiffening arrangement 2340 essentially exists from a rod part 2350, a cylinder part 2360, a check valve 2370, a spring 2400 and a plate 2390. The cylinder part 2360, the spring 2400 and the plate 2390 are connected to each other as shown in FIG. 32 is. The rod part 2350 has a fixed end (not and a free end shown in FIG. The fixed end is on the ski in the same way as the damper plate 12 'in the embodiment of Fig. 30 attached. The free end of the rod part 2350 has a piston 2352 with an O-ring seal 2354. The free end of the rod part 2350 is the cylinder part 2360, the spring 2400 and the plate 2390 as shown in FIG. 32.

Plate 2390 has a fixed end (not shown) and a free end. The fixed end is the same on the ski Way as the damper plate 14 'in the embodiment of the Fig. 30 attached. The free end of plate 2390 has a middle plate 2392 and a pair of parallel plates 2394 and 2396. Form the parallel plates 2394 and 2396 a slot 2398 for the rod. The spring 2400 is between the ends of the parallel plates 2394 as well 2396 and the cylinder part 2360.

The cylinder part 2360 consists of a housing 2362 and a Bypass channel 2364. The cylinder part 2360 is with the spring 2400 connected as mentioned above. The cylinder part 2360 is not attached to the ski and can change accordingly move freely with the plate 2390. The shut-off valve 2370 is arranged in the bypass channel 2364, as in FIG. 32 shows. The check valve 2370 is preferably in the form of Shut-off valve 2180, which is shown in FIGS. 28 and 29 and has been described above. Preferably that is Shut-off valve below the ski boot in the toe area arranged. A first guide floor 2380 and a second one Guide floor 2384 are arranged within the housing 2362, to store the rod part 2350. The first guide floor has a seal 2382 and the second guide bottom 2384 a seal 2386. The seals 2382 and 2386 prevent the fluid from escaping from the cylinder part 2360 and serve as a bearing surface for the rod part 2350, when it moves in the longitudinal direction of the ski.

The spring 2400 is with the cylinder part 2360 and the plate 2390 connected and preferably made of adipren urethane rubber manufactured and preferably has a hardness in the range 60A to 95A. The spring 2400 is essentially cylindrical Form and is dimensioned so that a free space 2376 remains between the spring 2400 and the rod part 2350. Accordingly, spring 2400 does not affect movement of the rod part 2350.

Now the function of the attenuator or stiffener 2340. When the shut-off valve 2370 is in the open position is the attenuator or stiffener 2340 its ineffective state. This can release fluid flow through the bypass channel 2364. If so Rod part 2350 a movement in the forward or backward direction runs relative to the ski, accordingly Hydraulic fluid displaced by piston 2352 freely through the Flow through bypass duct 2364. So that the rod part when the ski bends, an inward or Execute outward direction of slot 2398 if that Rod part 2350 and the plate 2390 towards each other or move away from each other.

If the shut-off valve 2370 is in the closed position, this can Do not flow fluid through the bypass channel 2364. Accordingly the rod part 2350 is locked to the cylinder part 2360. Thus, the plate 2390 moves against the force of the Spring 2400 when the ski bends. The characteristics of the Spring 2400 result in both damping and stiffening of the ski.

When the ski bends, the rod part 2350 moves and plate 2390 toward or away from each other. If the attenuator 2340 ineffective the rod part 2350 can be relative to the cylinder part 2360, which is connected to the spring 2400, move freely. When damping or stiffening 2340 is effective are the rod part 2350 relative to the cylinder part held firm or immovable, and thus the movement the plate 2390 counteracted by the spring 2400 which both dampens the ski and increases its rigidity. In this embodiment of the invention, a single one is used Element (i.e. the spring 2400) to do both damping as well as stiffening.

The foregoing description shows various embodiments the invention. It should be emphasized that this Embodiments for illustrative purposes only serve and that diverse changes and modifications are possible for professionals without the subject as well as the Leave the scope of the invention. For example the present invention can be modified so that that a spring-loaded switch electronic Dampers, for example piezoelectric dampers, on and off. In addition, in the embodiments, which have both damping and stiffening devices of the ski, a modification of the invention in that only devices for damping or only devices for stiffening are provided. In addition, in embodiments with spring elements an amendment to this for mounting the ski be made that that generated by the spring element Spring force is changeable. For example, the number the spring elements that cause the spring force, changeable his. The damping and stiffening arrangements can be arranged everywhere along the ski. In a similar way can the devices for switching the damping on and off and stiffening arrangement in different positions be arranged below the ski boot sole, depending on the situation from the threshold value of the force at which the damping and / or stiffening member is to be activated.

Even if the embodiments described above in combination arranged with ski bindings or in ski bindings the systems can also be used in skis or in ski boots or arranged in combinations of bindings, skis and / or shoes his.

Claims (11)

1. An arrangement for altering the flexibility of a ski (2, 1001) during a skiing phase, having a damping and/or stiffening device (10, 1000,1010), which can be controlled by the skier, depending on a stress on the ski, by means of a control device (40, 1006, 1014), characterized in that the control device (40, 1006, 1014) switches the damping and/or stiffening device (10, 1000, 1010) between active and inactive either above or below a threshold value of the stress which is and/or can be predetermined through adjustment.
2. The arrangement according to claim 1,
   characterized in that,
   in its active state, the damping and/or stiffening device dissipates damping and/or stiffening forces via elements which are coupled by form fitting and frictional fitting to parts which are fixed to and/or are on the side towards the ski and the control device switches on and off and/or controls the form and/or frictional fitting.
3. The arrangement according to claim 1 or 2,
   characterized in that,
   in its active state, the damping and/or stiffening device dissipates damping and/or stiffening forces, via transfer elements which work together through fluidic, particularly hydraulic, coupling, onto parts which are fixed to and/or are on the side towards the ski and the control device switches the coupling on and off and/or controls an achievable fluidic and/or hydraulic pressure of the coupling and/or controls a throttle which is acted upon an input side by the pressure mentioned and on the output side by a lower and/or vanishing counterpressure.
4. The arrangement according to one of the claims 1 to 3,
   characterized in that,
   while the skis bend, parts (18, 20) which are fixed to and/or are on the side towards the ski, which alter their interval in the lengthwise direction of the ski, can, for transfer of pulling and/or pushing forces in the lengthwise direction of the ski, be connected by a coupling device and the control device (40) alters the forces transferable by the coupling device and/or the energy dissipations arising in the coupling device and/or switches the coupling device and/or parts of same on and/or off.
5. The arrangement according to one of the claims 1 to 4,
   characterized in that
   the coupling device is implemented as a coupling operating with frictional fit and/or form fit having upper and lower parts on the ski which can be pressed away from one another by a pretensioning force and, if the pretensioning force is overcome, can be coupled together with a frictional or form fit.
6. The arrangement according to one of the claims 1 to 5,
   characterized in that
   the damping and/or stiffening device comprises a hydraulic displacer unit, whose displacer performs lifting movements during bending movements of the ski, through which a hydraulic medium overflows between two chambers, and the control device comprises a shutoff and/or throttle valve positioned in the overflow path.
7. The arrangement according to one of the claims 1 to 6,
   characterized in that
   the control device activates the damping and/or stiffening device when the pressure forces between the ski boot and the ski, particularly in the region between the ball of the ski boot and the ski, exceed an amount of a magnitude of half of the weight of the skier.
8. The arrangement according to one of the claims 1 to 7,
   characterized in that
   the control device activates the damping and/or stiffening device when the skier displaces his weight by a predeterminable amount in the forward direction of the ski.
9. The arrangement according to one of the claims 1 to 8,
   characterized in that
   the damping and/or stiffening device is located in a central lengthwise region of the ski, particularly in the region of the ski boot, and stiffens and/or damps this region.
10. The arrangement according to one of the claims 1 to 9,
    characterized in that
    hydraulic elements of the control device and/or of the damping and/or stiffening device contain viscous hydraulic media.
11. The arrangement according to one of the claims 1 to 10,
    characterized in that
    the inertial forces and/or moments relative to a (vertical) normal axis of the ski and/or relative rotations between the ski boot and the ski relative to the normal axis are used for - preferably temporary - change to a state with increased damping and/or stiffening of the ski.

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