INTRODUCTION: A rigorous, science-based, engineering design method is used to explain how ski bindings can protect ACLs and avoid inadvertent release. Additionally, it shows how appropriate binding retention/release setting methods could be developed for elite skiers. In skiing, as other sports, awareness of injury mechanisms and how they can be avoided has not led to safer equipment. For decades concepts for ski bindings that could reduce ACL injuries and inadvertent release have been patented, presented, and published [1,2]. Yet, equipment designs from most manufacturers still do not address these problems. ACL injuries continue at unfortunately high rates. Inadvertent release problems are addressed by increasing release settings and increasing injury risks. Sports science and sports medicine communities could foster more innovation by promoting publication and presentation of design work. This could encourage dialog, activity, and investment required to develop and realize design innovations. METHODS: Using Suh`s design theory and method [3] with C-K theory [4], the best design parameters (DPs), i.e., physical solutions, are developed and selected using Suh`s two design axioms. One maintains the independence of functional requirements (FRs), and two minimizes the information content. Solution neutral FRs are formulated based on needs. Corresponding DP candidates are sought to fulfill them. Top-down, parallel FR-DP hierarchies of increasing detail are developed. Decomposition equation tests validity to be collectively exhaustive and mutually exclusive. Design equations show how DPs are adjusted to get FRs into functional tolerance. Care is taken in formulating and understanding good FRs, which are required to develop good solutions. Viability is established through compliance with Suh`s design axioms. RESULTS/DISCUSSION: FR-DP decompositions are presented as actionable, intent-solution, design representations. FR1 is to transmit performance loads with high fidelity. FR2 is to absorb energy that would otherwise increase loads beyond those for safe performance. FR3 is to avoid inadvertent release. DPs 1-3 comprise stiff-soft, load-limiting spring systems. Displacement to release and the loads to initiate displacement prior to release can be adjusted independently. Plate assemblies under bindings can provide displacement prior to release. An FR4 to limit combined valgus-inward-rotation (CVIR) loads, known to stress the ACL, can be fulfilled by supplementing current bindings with a vertical rotation axis in front of the toe. This DP4, can be integrated in the plates [2]. Bindings mounted on plates can fulfill release functions, while plates improve retention and reduce CVIR type ACL injuries. Performance loads for elite skiers could be functions of skier strength in addition to mass. Retention needs increase with speed. Research on correlations between strength tests, performance loads, and speed can test this hypothesis and establish functional relationships for setting response loads. CONCLUSION: Ski bindings can be advanced using rigorous engineering design theory and methods to develop and test concepts. ACL injuries and inadvertent releases can be reduced. Papers describing theoretically validated, viable design solutions can lead to improvements in athlete safety. Design papers should be valued similarly with other kinds of research papers.
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