A responsive ski binding plate to reduce the instance of ACL injuries in alpine skiers. It detects when injury is imminent, then reacts.
About
The Pivotal Ski Binding Plate protects skiers from anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries caused by “phantom foot” and boot- induced anterior drawer. The plate utilizes an adjustable spring-cam mechanism that acts as a vertical displacement moderator. This moderator can absorb applied forces that lead to boot induced anterior drawer injuries, and can sense when the skier is in a compromised position. This activates the phantom foot injury avoidance system, which releases the heel. The binding may then rotate about the toe, reducing injurious loads without the need for release. Because the foot does not remain in a fixed position, less injury inducing twisting of the knee can occur. This mechanism can be reversed, so that it may be used on either foot. Furthermore, the Pivotal Ski Binding Plate helps to prevent inadvertent release. FEATURES Novel ski binding plate Unique constant load absorbing mechanism Adjustable vertical displacement monitor detects injurious loads Dual pivot at toe end allows for lateral motion of the heel BENEFITS Reduced risk of ACL injury Reduced likelihood of inadvertent release Only activated when injury is imminent