Alpine ski-bindings - Retention devices - Requirements and test methods (ISO 11087:2015)
1Key Takeaways
This international standard specifies requirements for skis and harnesses. It applies to safety devices used in alpine skiing to reduce the risk of injury from releasing skis.
2Expert Interpretation
An in-depth analysis of ISO 11087:2015, the international standard for alpine ski bindings and brake devices, covers safety requirements, mechanical strength testing, functional reliability verification, and braking performance assessment methods to ensure ski equipment meets the latest safety regulations.
Analysis of the Core Content of ISO 11087:2015
ISO 11087:2015, "Alpine ski bindings — Requirements and test methods for ski equipment," is a key international standard for ski equipment safety, officially implemented on May 1, 2016. This standard sets out detailed technical requirements and test specifications for ski bindings used in alpine skiing, aiming to reduce the risk of injury to skiers from detached skis.
Scope of Application and Definition of Terms
This standard applies to ski bindings used in alpine skiing, including devices such as integrated ski brakes and ski straps.
| Terms | Definition | Technical points |
|---|---|---|
| Ski brake | A stopping device integrated into the ski binding that can brake a free-running ski after the binding is released | In accordance with the current state of the art, it must be triggered automatically |
| Fall zone | The area where a skier may pass after a fall, including the braking distance and width from the fall point to the stopping point | The width shall not exceed 5 meters |
Detailed explanation of technical requirements
4.1 Compatibility with binding functions
Ski brakes must meet ISO 9001:2008 9462 and the relevant requirements of ISO 5355 to ensure perfect interaction with the binding system.
4.2 Impact on Skiing
The brakes must not affect normal skiing, nor should the skis get caught or slide sideways, even on steep terrain. The brakes must not engage the braking position unintentionally during skiing.
4.3 Mechanical Strength
The brakes must be designed and manufactured to withstand the various loads encountered in actual use without damage.
4.4 Functional Reliability
Cold, snowy, and icy conditions must not affect the brake's proper release function. The standard requires reliable operation under all environmental conditions.
4.5 Automatic Function
The brakes must be able to operate independently and release automatically without the skier's intervention. If the brakes have a locking device, they must be automatically unlocked after entering the binding.
4.6 External Structure
The external design of the brakes must ensure that they do not pose a greater risk of injury to the skier than the bindings themselves during use.
4.7 Braking Effectiveness
The brakes must be able to brake the ski from all possible positions under all snow conditions and terrain. The skis must come to a complete stop within the skier's fall zone (no more than 5 meters wide).
Test Method and Equipment Requirements
5.1 Sampling Requirements
Two complete binding/brake systems (including plates, if applicable) are required for testing. One test sample must be selected for each laboratory test.
5.2 Test Equipment Specifications
| Equipment Type | Technical Requirements | Test Parameters |
|---|---|---|
| Test Skis | Adult skis: (2000±50)mm in length, (2.0±0.1)kg; children skis: (1500±50)mm in length, (1.3±0.1)kg | Pre-camber height: (12±2)mm for adults, (10±2)mm for children |
| Reference Brake | Serves as a comparison benchmark for the braking effectiveness test, with a specific structure and spring system | Installed according to manufacturer's specifications |
| Test slope | Slope 28°±3°, using loose snow compacted by lateral pedaling | Test speed (8±1) m/s |
5.4 Test execution details
Mechanical strength test is conducted at -20°C, using impact blocks to test the brake's durability in multiple directions.
Braking effectiveness test consists of five tests with the ski running forward, five tests with the ski running backward, and five tests with a reference brake. The average braking distance of the test results must not exceed 20% of the reference value.
Recommendations for Implementation of the Standard and Technological Evolution
Major Changes Compared with the 2006 Edition of the Standard
The 2015 Edition of the Standard has been significantly updated compared to the 2006 Edition:
- Reworded the requirements for remote control devices in Section 5.2.6
- Added Sections 6.1 and 6.2 Instructions for Use and Installation
- Modified the numerical requirements for adult and child binding straps in Appendix A
- Updated normative citations and references
- Editorial revisions
Implementation Recommendations
Manufacturers should pay attention to the following when designing and producing braking devices:
- Ensure the compatibility of the brakes with skis of various widths
- Test mechanical strength and functional reliability under extreme cold conditions
- Provide detailed instructions for use and maintenance
- Provide additional warnings for the special conditions of deep snow skiing
Technological Development Trends
With the development of skiing, the technology of braking devices is also constantly improving:
- Application of lightweight materials to improve performance
- Intelligent sensor integration to enhance safety
- Modular design for easy maintenance and replacement
- Environmentally adaptable design to cope with various snow conditions
Appendix A: Special requirements for braking straps
For special-purpose braking devices such as braking straps, the standard specifies additional requirements:
| Parameters | Adult binding braking straps | Children's binding braking straps |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum breaking strength | 1500 N | 1000 N |
| Minimum breaking energy | 75 Nm | 50 Nm |
| Rebound energy limit | Must be less than 50% to avoid the projectile effect | |
The stopper strap must ensure that it can be opened and closed in all skiing conditions, even when wearing ski gloves. It must not affect the function of the binding or skiing.
By complying with the requirements of ISO 11087:2015, ski equipment manufacturers can ensure that their products meet international safety standards and provide reliable protection for skiers. The implementation of this standard is of great significance to improving the safety of skiing.