This is about year three, that I know of. So far Howell has won every step along the way but KB isn't giving up. It is a shame, for while it may not be the end-all solution to ACL injury, it is a massive step in technology and could be a significant stepping stone towards bindings that protect more than bones; which is to say all other binding technology. The Marker Kingpin does provide true lateral release at the heel, but that is in lieu of having lateral release at the toe. The Kingpin and the Howell Ski Binding have completely separate mechanisms for up vs lateral release so share some concepts, but to achieve different goals. Out of deference to Rick, I'll reference his bindings, not KB in the future as Howell is actively pursing the technology and its inventor. KB is just using their snapshot of the technology, as far as I can tell, to market their system.