dynamic cross-country ski
dynamic cross-country
dynamic
cross-country
dynamic cross-country ski
the need
Nordic ski equipment for people with mobility limitations consists of a seating support and frame chassis mounted on cross-country skis. Fixed at standard cross-country track width, the skis join the frame with industrial shock mounts. The shocks allow the skis to flex beneath the skier for a smooth ride, but cannot store the energy of a push to be released at a later time.
forward momentum
cross-country skiing with efficiency
cross-country skiing with efficiency
the solution
The addition of a suspension capable of transmitting a dynamic kick would permit cross-country ski users with mobility limitations to maintain forward momentum between each pole stroke.
dynamic design
The dynamic cross-country ski has gone through numerous iterations, beginning with a version built on wheels used for training on land, allowing the skier to tilt fore and aft for increased range of motion. Springs pull the skier into a rear-tilted position. When reaching forward with poles, the skier tilts into a forward position, stretching the springs. As the skier poles through, the springs snap the skier back into a rear-tilted position producing a kick-and-glide effect.
The prototype has been implemented in a version that can be used on the snow. The device has practical application for speed and racing efficiency for cross-country skiers with lower extremity impairments.
acknowledgements
This project is sponsored by Beneficial Designs, Inc.