The goal of this project was to provide a solution to the ski binding industry that allows for the interchangeability between an alpine resort-style ski binding and an uphill touring style ski binding. This binding system aims to satisfy two use cases: (1) the ability to ascend and descend on an uphill touring-style ski binding, and (2) the ability to ascend on an uphill touring-style ski binding and descend on an alpine resort-style ski binding. As a result of researching current market options and ways to create a better ski binding, our team designed a ski binding plate system which was prototyped using 3D printed PLA and manufactured from aluminum. The initial PLA prototype was lab-tested to better understand how it would react under applied loads and the final aluminum model was mounted to skis and tested on snow. The result of this project was the production of a usable binding system that performed well and accurately addressed the desired use cases. This binding system showed promise and leaves the possibility for future iterations and use in the consumer market.

• This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

Creator

• Aaron, Jacqueline
• Daly, Conor
• Heiman, Eric

Subject

• Industry
• Innovation

Publisher

• Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Identifier

• 43221
• E-project-121521-122458

Keyword

• backcountry skiing
• binding
• ski
• ski binding
• ski touring
• skiing

Advisor

• Ebadi, Alireza

Year

• 2021

Date created

• 2021-12-15

Resource type

• Major Qualifying Project

Major

• Mechanical Engineering

Rights statement

• In Copyright