Abstract: An apparatus for achieving programmed release in ski bindings determines release criteria in order to minimize selected types of lower extremity ski injuries, the release criteria being formulated from biomechanical models and associated equations. Analog and digital control circuits compute the release variables from the biomechanical model equations and for comparing the variable values to the release criteria in order to precisely generate a release initiating signal. Loads measured in the ski binding drive the biomechanical model equations. The ski binding assemblies have a releasable binding for rigidly securing the ski boot to the ski with a release actuating element for releasing the ski boot from the binding upon occurrence of a release condition as determined by the associated control circuit.

Abstract: A method for achieving programmed release in ski bindings determines release criterial in order to minimize selected types of lower extremity ski injuries, the release criteria being formulated from biomechanical models and associated equations. Analog and digital control circuits compute the release variables from the biomechanical model equations and compare the variable values to the release criteria in order to precisely generate a release initiating signal. Loads measured in the ski binding drive the biomechanical model equations. The ski binding assemblies have a releasable binding for rigidly securing the ski boot to the ski with a release actuating element for releasing the ski boot from the binding upon occurrence of a release condition as determined by the associated control circuit.

Abstract: A pedalling efficiency indicator measures the forces acting on the crank arm of a pedacycle to compute pedalling efficiency as a function of these forces. Generally, pedalling efficiency is computed as the ratio of the normal component of force acting on the crank arm to the resultant load of the crank arm. The computation of pedalling efficiency may then be visually indicated so that the pedacyclist may use a pedalling technique to maximize efficiency.

Abstract: A ski binding for releasably securing a ski boot to a ski includes strain gages mounted between the ski and the ski binding housing. The strain gages measure forces induced on the binding and develop electrical signals commensurate thereto. The signals are analyzed to develop a release signal when any component of a force exceeds a predetermined limit. The ski binding includes bias elements for maintaining a pair of clamps in a locked position for securing a boot plate of the ski boot to the housing and in response to the release signal releases the clamps to free the ski boot from the ski binding to prevent injury to the user.

Abstract: A method for achieving programmed release ski bindings include formulation of biomechanical models and associated equations for determining release criteria in order to minimize selected types of lower extremity ski injuries. Analog and digital control circuits are also disclosed for computing the release variables from the biomechanical model equations and comparing the variable values to the release criteria in order to precisely generate a release initiating signal. Loads measured in the ski binding drive the biomechanical model equations. The ski binding assembly has a releasable binding for rigidly securing the ski boot to the ski with a release actuating element for releasing the ski boot from the binding upon occurrence of a release condition as determined by the associated control circuit.

Abstract: A ski binding assembly includes a releasable binding for rigidly securing a ski boot to the ski with a release actuating element for releasing the ski boot from the binding upon occurrence of a release condition determined by a preprogrammed control. The releasable binding includes circular elements, nested one within the other, and a detent for selectively locking the elements together while being capable of unlatching the elements upon operation of the release actuating element.