U.S. patent application number 10/641631 was filed with the patent office on 2004-02-19 for in-line skate conversion apparatus.
This patent application is currently assigned to Richard S. Gaster. Invention is credited to Gaster, Richard S., Stengel, Fred H..
Application Number | 20040032098 10/641631 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 31721969 |
Filed Date | 2004-02-19 |
United States Patent
Application |
20040032098 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Gaster, Richard S. ; et
al. |
February 19, 2004 |
In-line skate conversion apparatus
Abstract
At least one walking member that may be used in conjunction with
an in-line skate to enable the wearer of the in-line skate to walk
while wearing the in-line skate.
Inventors: |
Gaster, Richard S.; (Beverly
Hills, CA) ; Stengel, Fred H.; (Redwood City,
CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Henricks, Slavin & Holmes LLP
Attn: Craig A. Slavin, Esq.
Suite 200
840 Apollo Street
El Segundo
CA
90245
US
|
Assignee: |
Richard S. Gaster
|
Family ID: |
31721969 |
Appl. No.: |
10/641631 |
Filed: |
August 14, 2003 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10641631 |
Aug 14, 2003 |
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10238274 |
Sep 9, 2002 |
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10238274 |
Sep 9, 2002 |
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09556263 |
Apr 24, 2000 |
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6446982 |
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09556263 |
Apr 24, 2000 |
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09106979 |
Jun 29, 1998 |
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6217037 |
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09106979 |
Jun 29, 1998 |
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08480011 |
Jun 7, 1995 |
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5772220 |
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10641631 |
Aug 14, 2003 |
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10241007 |
Sep 9, 2002 |
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10241007 |
Sep 9, 2002 |
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09678156 |
Oct 2, 2000 |
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6446983 |
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09678156 |
Oct 2, 2000 |
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09325371 |
Jun 4, 1999 |
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6279922 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
280/11.19 ;
280/811; 280/825 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63C 2201/02 20130101;
A63C 17/20 20130101; A63C 17/06 20130101; A63C 17/1436 20130101;
A63C 2017/1481 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
280/11.19 ;
280/811; 280/825 |
International
Class: |
A63C 017/20 |
Claims
We claim:
1. An apparatus for use with an in-line skate having a plurality of
longitudinally spaced wheels, the apparatus comprising: a support
device movable inwardly and outwardly relative to the wheels
between a first position and a second position; and at least one
wheel engagement member carried by the support device and
configured such that the at least one wheel engagement will extend
into a space between two adjacent wheels and engage the two
adjacent wheels when the support device is in the first position
and will be spaced from the two adjacent wheels when the support
device is in the second position.
2. An apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the in-line skate
includes first and second pairs of adjacent wheels, the at least
one wheel engagement member comprises first and second wheel
engagement members, the first wheel engagement member extends into
the space between the first pair of adjacent wheels and engages the
first pair of adjacent wheels when the support device is in the
first position, and the second wheel engagement member extends into
the space between the second pair of adjacent wheels and engages
the second pair of adjacent wheels when the support device is in
the first position.
3. An apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one
wheel engagement member defines a width and the width decreases
over a portion of the at least one wheel engagement member.
4. An apparatus as claimed in claim 3, wherein the at least one
wheel engagement member includes a portion that defines a
trapezoidal shape.
5. An apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the in-line skate
defines a longitudinal axis and the at least one wheel engagement
member moves in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to
the longitudinal axis.
6. An apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the support device
is pivotable.
7. An apparatus as claimed in claim 6, further comprising: a bias
element that biases the support device to the first position.
8. An apparatus as claimed in claim 7, further comprising: a
slidable member that drives the support device from the first
position to the second position.
9. An apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the support device
is slidable.
10. An apparatus as claimed in claim 9, further comprising: a bias
element that biases the support device to the second position.
11. An apparatus as claimed in claim 10, further comprising: a
rotatable member that drives the support device from the second
position to the first position.
12. An apparatus, comprising: an in-line skate including an upper
configured to receive a user's foot, a support member associated
with the upper, a plurality of longitudinally spaced wheels; a
support device carried by the in-line skate and movable inwardly
and outwardly relative to the wheels between a first position and a
second position; and at least one wheel engagement member carried
by the support device and configured such that the at least one
wheel engagement will extend into a space between two adjacent
wheels and engage the two adjacent wheels when the support device
is in the first position and will be spaced from the two adjacent
wheels when the support device is in the second position.
13. An apparatus as claimed in claim 12, wherein the in-line skate
includes first and second pairs of adjacent wheels, the at least
one wheel engagement member comprises first and second wheel
engagement members, the first wheel engagement member extends into
the space between the first pair of adjacent wheels and engages the
first pair of adjacent wheels when the support device is in the
first position, and the second wheel engagement member extends into
the space between the second pair of adjacent wheels and engages
the second pair of adjacent wheels when the support device is in
the first position.
14. An apparatus as claimed in claim 12, wherein the at least one
wheel engagement member defines a width and the width decreases
over a portion of the at least one wheel engagement member.
15. An apparatus as claimed in claim 14, wherein the at least one
wheel engagement member includes a portion that defines a
trapezoidal shape.
16. An apparatus as claimed in claim 12, wherein the in-line skate
defines a longitudinal axis and the at least one wheel engagement
member moves in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to
the longitudinal axis.
17. An apparatus as claimed in claim 12, wherein the support device
is pivotably mounted on the support member.
18. An apparatus as claimed in claim 17, further comprising: a bias
element that biases the support device to the first position.
19. An apparatus as claimed in claim 18, further comprising: a
slidable member that drives the support device from the first
position to the second position.
20. An apparatus as claimed in claim 12, wherein the support device
is slidably mounted on the support member.
21. An apparatus as claimed in claim 20, further comprising: a bias
element that biases the support device to the second position.
22. An apparatus as claimed in claim 21, further comprising: a
rotatable member that drives the support device from the second
position to the first position.
23. An apparatus for use with an in-line skate having a plurality
of longitudinally spaced wheels, the apparatus comprising: a first
walking member portion having a first mating surface; and a second
walking member portion having a second mating surface; the first
and second walking members being connected to one another such that
the first walking member is movable between a first position, where
first and second walking member portions are substantially side by
side, and a second position where the first and second walking
member portions are vertically aligned and the first and second
mating surfaces are in contact with one another.
24. An apparatus as claimed in claim 23, wherein the first walking
member portion is slidably connected to the second walking member
portion.
25. An apparatus as claimed in claim 23, wherein the first walking
member portion is biased against the second walking member
portion.
26. An apparatus as claimed in claim 23, wherein the first walking
member portion includes a slot and the second walking member
portion includes and aperture, the apparatus further comprising: a
bias device that extends through the first walking member portion
slot and through the second walking member portion aperture and
biases the first and second walking member portions against one
another.
27. An apparatus, comprising: a skate including an upper configured
to receive a user's foot, a support member associated with the
upper, a plurality of wheels supported on the support member; and
at least one walking member including a first walking member
portion having a first mating surface, and second walking member
portion carried by the in-line skate and having a second mating
surface, the first walking member portion supported on the second
walking member portion and movable such that the first walking
member portion is movable relative to the skate between a first
position, where the at least one walking member allows the wheels
to rotationally engage the surface, and a second position, where
the at least one walking member prevents the wheel from rotating
relative to the surface.
28. An apparatus as claimed in claim 27, wherein the wheels are
arranged in in-line fashion.
29. An apparatus as claimed in claim 27, wherein the at least one
walking member comprises a pair of walking members.
30. An apparatus as claimed in claim 27, wherein the first walking
member is movable between a first position, where first and second
walking member portions are substantially side by side, and a
second position where the first and second walking member portions
are vertically aligned and the first and second mating surfaces are
in contact with one another.
31. An apparatus as claimed in claim 27, wherein the first walking
member portion is biased against the second walking member
portion.
32. An apparatus as claimed in claim 27, wherein the first walking
member portion includes a slot and the second walking member
portion includes and aperture, the apparatus further comprising: a
bias device that extends through the first walking member portion
slot and through the second walking member portion aperture and
biases the first and second walking member portions against one
another.
33. An apparatus as claimed in claim 27, wherein the skate includes
a plurality of wheel axles and the second walking member portion is
carried by at least one of the axles.
34. An apparatus as claimed in claim 27, wherein the at least one
walking member comprises first and second walking members.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S.
application Ser. No. 10/238,274, filed Sep. 9, 2002, which is
itself a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 09/556,263,
filed Apr. 24, 2000, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,446,982, which is itself a
continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 09/106,979, filed
Jun. 29, 1998, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,217,037, which is itself a
continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 08/480,011, filed
Jun. 7, 1995, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,772,220.
[0002] This application is also a continuation-in-part of U.S.
application Ser. No. 10/241,007, filed Sep. 9, 2002, which is
continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 09/678,156, filed Oct. 2,
2000, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,446,983, which is itself a continuation
of U.S. application Ser. No. 09/325,371, filed Jun. 4, 1999, now
U.S. Pat. No. 6,279,922.
[0003] Each of these applications are incorporated herein by
reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTIONS
[0004] 1. Field of Inventions
[0005] The present inventions are related to in-line skates and
apparatus that enable the wearer of the in-line skate to walk in
the skate without fear of falling.
[0006] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0007] In-line skating has exploded in popularity over the last
several years. Indeed, in-line skates have replaced roller skates
in popularity. One of the reasons for the surge in popularity of
in-line skating may be due to the wide variety of equipment
available and the lack of a requirement that in-line skating be
performed in any particular place. That is, unlike ice skating
which requires an individual to go to an ice rink, or roller
skating which has traditionally be enjoyed in roller skating rinks,
in-line skates are specifically manufactured for use in the
outdoors, provided there is a suitable hard surface to skate on.
Furthermore, due to the relatively low cost of beginning
participation in the sport--which typically requires the purchase
of the skates and optional padding for elbows, knees and
wrists--in-line skating is economically feasible for most people.
As in-line skating has developed, several problems have arisen.
[0008] In particular, novice in-line skaters often time have
difficulty braking or otherwise slowing themselves down after
building up speed. One of the difficulties with braking in in-line
skates is the requirements that pressure be placed on a brake pad
located substantially rearward of the heel of the wearer. Many
skaters have complained that the application of pressure in a
downward fashion at the heel by raising the toe is an unnatural
motion which requires coordination. Skaters often time lose balance
and fall when attempting to brake in this fashion. To solve the
problem with braking in in-line skates, numerous individuals have
attempted to offer different braking solutions. For example, U.S.
Pat. No. 5,320,367 to Landis which issued on Jun. 14, 1994,
disclosed a braking apparatus which utilizes a hand-held brake
control for causing the application of rubber brake pads to the
wheels of the in-line skate to slow the wearer down. In addition,
major in-line skate manufacturers such as Rollerblade have proposed
alternative braking mechanisms to assist the wearer in the braking
operation.
[0009] After the wearer has stopped, however, the wearer must still
be able to maneuver on the in-line skates. This has lead to another
problem in that once an in-line skater has stopped, in order to
move in any direction, the wearer of the skates must roll to the
next location. This can often make it quite awkward for a novice
in-line skater to, for example, stop at an outdoor snack bar to
have lunch. After ordering the food from the window, the skater
must carry the food from the window to, for example, a nearby
table. The act of carrying the food from the window to the nearby
table can represent a terrifying journey for a novice in-line
skater. Indeed, the inventor of the instant application had food
splattered on him because his mother was unable to stop on her
in-line skates while she was carrying food from an outdoor snack
bar to the table.
[0010] In addition to the above-described '367 patent, U.S. Pat.
No. 4,273,345 to Ben-Dor et al. provides a friction plate for the
wearer of the skate to drag along the ground to stop the movement
of the skate. U.S. Pat. No. 3,351,353 to D. M. Weitzner discloses a
pair of retractable roller and ice skates for shoes. As seen in
FIGS. 10 and 13 of the '353 patent, the shoe can be taken apart so
that a plate 50 is removed from its channel, inverted, and then
reinserted into the channel 40 above the roller assemblies. The
plate is thus stored out of the way in the channel and at the same
time serves as a spacer and bearing member holding the roller
assembly 70 in a stable position in the sole of the shoe, thus
enabling the shoe to serve as a roller skate. While the device
enables a shoe to be worn as a roller skate, it requires the shoe
to be disassembled and reassembled prior to wearing the roller
portion of the shoe.
[0011] Similarly, U.S. Pat. No. 3,979,842 to Texidor discloses an
athletic shoe exerciser which retains rollers when they are not
being used in a lower portion of the exerciser. Specifically, as
seen in FIG. 2, the roller skates are folded up into the base 14 of
the shoe when not in use. Other modifications are sports shoes are
also known. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,114,295 to Schaefer
discloses a convertible sports shoe which may be converted from a
roller skate to an ice skate. Similarly, U.S. Pat. No. 3,387,852
discloses roller skates which can be removed from the bottom of the
shoe 20. U.S. Pat. No. 5,224,718 to Gertler discloses a foot
transport device which can be fastened to a standard walking shoe.
Finally, U.S. Pat. No. 4,988,122 discloses a combination roller
skate and ice skate which includes a boot which can have a roller
portion or an ice skate portion attached thereto.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTIONS
[0012] The inventor has determined that a need exists for
conversion apparatus which would enable the wearer of standard
in-line skates to walk on the skates without activating the wheels
thereof. As such, one object of the present inventions is to
provide such apparatus. Another object of the present inventions is
to provide an economically efficient apparatus for converting
standard in-line skates to walking shoes without sacrificing the
performance characteristics of the in-line skates.
[0013] In order to accomplish some of these and other objectives,
an apparatus in accordance with one embodiment of a present
invention includes at least one walking member which extends from a
wheel support plate in a downward direction to a position equal to
or beyond the range of the wheels. When the walking member is
extended, the in-line skate is converted to a relatively stable
walking platform to enable the wearer to maneuver in relative
safety.
[0014] In order to accomplish some of these and other objectives,
an apparatus in accordance with one embodiment of a present
invention includes a pair of detachable walking members which allow
the wearer to selectively decouple the walking members and entirely
remove them from the in-line skate, only engaging the walking
members with the skate when they are needed to walk. Thus, those
users of in-line skates who do not prefer to have a walking member
permanently coupled with the skate may utilize the detachable
walking members. For convenience, the pair of detachable walking
members may be connected via a flexible member.
[0015] In order to accomplish some of these and other objectives,
an apparatus in accordance with one embodiment of a present
invention includes a wheel engagement member and a support device
adapted to support the wheel engagement member on the in-line skate
such that the wheel engagement member is movable between a first
position wherein the wheel engagement member engages at least one
of the wheels and a second position wherein the wheel engagement
member is disengaged from the at least one wheel.
[0016] The present inventions provide a number of important
advantages. For example, the walking members and wheel engagement
members enable the wearer to walk from an outdoor snack counter
without having to worry about the ability to stop once she arrived
at the table. In this fashion, she could avoid spilling food and
drinks on her children by maintaining control at all times. They
also enable the wearer of in-line skates to skate from, for
example, from their home to a place of business such as a store,
and then convert the skate to a walking shoe to allow the
individual to enter the premises. After the user has conducted
their business in the premises, he can leave the business,
reconvert the skates to standard in-line skates, and then continue
on his way using the in-line skates in the normal fashion.
[0017] The present inventions also provide for the conversion of
in-line skates to walking shoes while maintaining the aerodynamic
and performance qualities of the in-line skates such that the
device will be acceptable to both advanced as well as novice
in-line skaters. Furthermore, the present inventions may be adapted
to presently existing in-line skates through the use of simple
conversion hardware. It is economical to install and cost effective
to manufacture.
[0018] The above described and many other features and attendant
advantages of the present inventions will become apparent as the
inventions become better understood by reference to the following
detailed description when considered in conjunction with the
accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0019] Detailed description of preferred embodiments of the
inventions will be made with reference to the accompanying
drawings.
[0020] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of an in-line skate
in accordance with one embodiment of a present invention.
[0021] FIG. 2 is a partial side view of the in-line skate
illustrated in FIG. 1.
[0022] FIG. 3 is a partial section view taken along line 3-3 in
FIG. 2.
[0023] FIG. 4 is a partial side view of an alternative locking
arrangement in accordance with one embodiment of a present
invention.
[0024] FIG. 5 is a partial section view of in accordance with one
embodiment of a present invention.
[0025] FIG. 6 is a partial section view in accordance with one
embodiment of a present invention.
[0026] FIG. 7 is a side view of an in-line skate in accordance with
one embodiment of a present invention.
[0027] FIG. 8 is a section view taken along line 8-8 in FIG. 7.
[0028] FIG. 9 is a section view in accordance with one embodiment
of a present invention.
[0029] FIG. 10 is an elevation view of a portion of the embodiment
illustrated in FIG. 9.
[0030] FIG. 11 is a top, partial section view in accordance with
one embodiment of a present invention.
[0031] FIG. 12 is a section view in accordance with one embodiment
of a present invention.
[0032] FIG. 13 is a side view of an in-line skate in accordance
with one embodiment of a present invention.
[0033] FIG. 14 is a section view taken along lines 14-14 in FIG.
13.
[0034] FIG. 15 is a top, section view of the embodiment illustrated
in FIG. 13.
[0035] FIG. 16 is a top, section view in accordance with one
embodiment of a present invention.
[0036] FIG. 17 is a side view in accordance with one embodiment of
a present invention.
[0037] FIG. 18 is a partial section view taken along lines 18-18 in
FIG. 17.
[0038] FIG. 19 is a partial section view taken along lines 19-19 in
FIG. 17.
[0039] FIG. 20 is another side view of the embodiment illustrated
in FIG. 17.
[0040] FIG. 21 is a partial section view taken along lines 21-21 in
FIG. 21.
[0041] FIG. 22 is a partial section view taken along lines 22-22 in
FIG. 22.
[0042] FIG. 23 is a side view in accordance with one embodiment of
a present invention.
[0043] FIGS. 24A and 24B are partial section views taken along
lines 24-24 in FIG. 23.
[0044] FIG. 25 is a side view in accordance with one embodiment of
a present invention.
[0045] FIG. 26 is an end view of the embodiment illustrated in FIG.
25.
[0046] FIG. 27 is a partial section view taken along lines 27-27 in
FIG. 25.
[0047] FIG. 28 is another side view of the embodiment illustrated
in FIG. 25.
[0048] FIG. 29 is an end view of the embodiment illustrated in FIG.
28.
[0049] FIG. 30 is an exploded perspective view of an in-line skate
in accordance with one embodiment of a present invention.
[0050] FIG. 31 is a front view of the detachable walking member
illustrated in FIG. 30.
[0051] FIG. 32 is a side view of the detachable walking member
illustrated in FIG. 30.
[0052] FIG. 33 is a front view of the embodiment illustrated in
FIG. 30.
[0053] FIG. 34 is a front view of the detachable walking member
illustrated in FIG. 31 using an alternative connection
mechanism.
[0054] FIG. 35 is a perspective view of a walking member in
accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
[0055] FIG. 36 is a perspective view of an in-line skate including
a conversion apparatus in accordance with the exemplary embodiment
illustrated in FIG. 23.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0056] The following is a detailed description of the best
presently known modes of carrying out the inventions. In the
following discussion of the presently preferred embodiments, like
reference numerals refer to like elements. Further, the following
discussion is not to be considered in a limiting sense. Rather,
while the following discussion taken in conjunction with the
drawings illustrate the presently preferred embodiments of the
present inventions, the inventions are in no way limited to the
embodiments described below and shown in the drawings. It is to be
understood that numerous modifications, additions and/or
substitutions can be made to the preferred embodiments without
departing from the spirit and scope of the inventions.
[0057] FIGS. 1-3 illustrate one embodiment of a present invention.
An in-line skating boot 10 in accordance with the illustrated
embodiment incorporates a plurality of wheels 12 which are
connected to the boot 10 through a pair of wheel support members or
plates 14. A plurality of bolts 16 connect the wheels support
plates 14, which are connected to the underside of the boot 10, to
the wheels 12. A plurality of nuts 18 are used to fasten the bolts
16 in place on the wheel support plates 14. The bolts 16 are
threaded at appropriate locations to allow the nuts 18 to be
secured thereto. Further, one skilled in the art will recognize
that washers may be placed between the nuts 18 and the wheel
support plates 14. Likewise, washers may also be used between the
wheel support plates 14 and the wheels 12. At this point, it should
be understood that while the following description and references
to the drawings will be made primarily to a single side of the
in-line skating boot 10 incorporating the present inventions (e.g.,
as seen in FIG. 1), the present inventions can incorporate similar
elements on each side of the wheels 12 as seen in, for example,
FIG. 3.
[0058] The bolts 16 illustrated in FIG. 1 incorporate a tubular
receptacle 20 at locations substantially adjacent to respective
ends thereof. Referring more specifically to FIGS. 1 and 3, it is
seen that a spacer 22 is fitted over the bolt 16 and rests
substantially adjacent to the nut 18. The spacers 22 serve to space
a pair of curved walking members 24 from respective side surfaces
of the wheel support plates 14. The walking members 24 are formed
in an arched fashion and incorporate a high friction surface, such
as the exemplary strip 26, along a lower ground-facing surface
thereof. The strip 26 may be formed from rubber or another suitable
material. The walking members 24 incorporate a pair of lower
locking holes 28 and pair of upper locking holes 29 at respective
ends of a plurality of slide slots 30 through which extends the
corresponding plurality of bolts 16. A corresponding number of
walking member control knobs 32 are disposed on respective ends of
each of the plurality of bolts 16. A knob securing pin 34 is
inserted into holes formed in a side surface of the walking member
control knobs 32 and is received in the receptacles 20 disposed at
respective ends of the bolts 16. The walking member control knobs
32 are provided with a finger grip ridge 38. A connecting rod 36
may be provided to connect each of the respective walking member
control knobs 32 so that such knobs may be operated in a
simultaneous fashion as described in more detail below.
[0059] The general operation of this embodiment will be described
with reference to FIG. 2. The typical in-line skate boot 10 is
provided with a braking pad 40 disposed substantially rearward of
the heel of the boot 10 and is attached to the wheel support plates
14. As seen in the figure, the walking member 24 is shown
illustrated in two positions: an up position 42 and a down position
44. In order to move the walking member 24 from the up position 42
to the down position 44, the bolts 16 which extend through the
walking member 24 by passing through the slide slots 30 must be
positionable in an upper bolt rest position 46 or a lower bolt rest
position 48. A transitional slot 50 connects the upper bolt rest
position 46 with the lower bolt rest position 48. Thus, referring
to FIG. 2 specifically, in order for the walking member 24 to be
moved from the up position 42 to the down position 44 (the walking
member 24 is illustrated by dashed lines in the down position 44),
the walking member 24 which is positioned such that the bolt 16,
which is positioned at the lower bolt rest position 48, must be
changed from the lower bolt rest position 48 via the transitional
slot 50 and to the upper bolt rest position 46. Thus, when the
bolts 16 are positioned in the upper bolt rest positions 46, the
walking member 24 is disposed in the down position 44. Similarly,
when the bolts 16 are positioned in the lower bolt rest positions
48, the walking member 24 is disposed in the up position 42. When
the walking member 24 is disposed in the down position 44, the
rubber strip 26 is preferably disposed at a position substantially
level with the lowest position on the wheels 12. Of course the down
position of the rubber strip 26 may be determined based on the
distance between positions 46, 48.
[0060] Referring in more detail to FIG. 3, the transition of the
walking member from the up position 42 to the down position 44 is
illustrated in more detail. Specifically, it is seen that the
walking member control knobs 32 have a pair of locking pins 52
which protrude from an inner surface of the walking member control
knobs 32. The locking pins 52 are preferably made of steel or
suitably hard materials such as ceramic, in order to support the
weight of the wearer. The locking pins 52 are received in the
respective lower and upper locking holes 28, 29 seen in FIG. 1. By
receiving the locking pins 52 in the respective locking holes 28,
29, the bolts 16 which attach to the walking member control knobs
32 are held in the respective upper and lower bolt rest positions
46, 48. A spring 54 is mounted inside of the bolt 16 and is used to
bias the walking member control knobs 32 against the walking
members 24. A spring channel 55 is provided within the bolts 16 to
contain the spring 54. The spring 54 is preferably of sufficient
strength to properly bias the walking member control knobs 32 while
still allowing the wearer to be able to overcome the force of the
spring 54 to move the walking member control knobs 32 in the
direction of the directional arrows 56.
[0061] In operation, the control knob 32 is pulled by the wearer in
the direction of the outward directional arrow 56 and the walking
member 24 is moved by the wearer in the direction of the downward
directional arrow 58. The transitional movement of the walking
member 24 in the direction of the downward directional arrow 58 is
achieved by the movement of walking members 24 relative to the
bolts 16 in the transitional slots 50 between the lower bolt rest
position 48 and the upper bolt rest position 46. It should be noted
that the downward directional arrow 58 is additionally angled in an
inward fashion. The arched movement of the walking member 24 as the
position of the bolt 16 is changed from the lower bolt rest
position 48 to the upper bolt rest position 46 is achieved due to
the arcuate structure of the walking member 24. Specifically, the
inward arc formation of the walking member 24 moves relative to
spacer 22 which causes the ground-side surface 60 of the rubber
strip 26 to move inward toward the wheels 12. As can be seen in
FIG. 3, the rubber strip 26 is disposed along each side of the tip
of the walking member 24. In this fashion, the rubber strip 26
includes a wheel-side surface 62. When the walking member 24 is
disposed in the down position 44, as seen in FIG. 2, the wheel-side
surface 62 of the rubber strip 26 is disposed substantially
adjacent to the wheel 12. In this fashion, when the walking member
24 is in the down position 44, the wheels 12 are prevented from
turning due to the frictional contact between the wheel-side
surface 62 of the rubber strip 26 and the wheels 12. Of course, the
rubber strip 26 may be provided with a tread or knobby bottom
surface to assist in traction. The rubber strip 26 is also
optional, or could be formed of a different material.
[0062] Referring back to FIG. 1, the walking member control knobs
32 may be pulled in an outward direction identified by the outward
directional arrow 56, and turned to the prevent the locking pins 52
from remaining engaged in the respective locking holes 28, 29 due
to the biasing force of the spring 54. After all of the knobs 32
have been pulled and turned to disengage the respective pins 52,
walking member 24 may be slid between the up and down positions 42,
44, as seen in FIG. 2. Alternatively, a connecting rod 36 may be
provided between each of the walking member control knobs 32. In
this fashion, by pulling on the connecting rod 36, the wearer of
the shoe may operate all of the walking member control knobs 32
located on a side of the in-line skate boot 10 simultaneously.
[0063] Referring to FIG. 4, an alternative embodiment for a locking
mechanism is shown. Specifically, in FIG. 4 the bolts 16 is
provided with an optional rounded head 17. A locking arm 64 is
disposed at the upper and lower bolt rest positions 46, 48. A pair
of channels 68, 70 define a locking tongue 72 which is preferably
formed to incline upwardly from the side of the walking member 24.
The locking tongue 72 is formed integral with the walking member 24
and is moveable in a direction normal to the plane of FIG. 4. The
locking arm 64 pivots in a circular fashion about a pivot pin
66.
[0064] In operation, the wearer simply pushes inward on the locking
tongue 72 which allows the locking arm 64 to pivot about the pivot
pin 66 in a circular fashion, thus releasing the bolt 16 and
optional rounded head 17 from the upper or lower bolt rest
positions 46, 48. Specifically, to move the walking member 24 such
that the bolt 16 and optional rounded head 17 are changed from the
lower bolt rest position 48 to the upper bolt rest position 46 seen
in FIG. 4, the wearer would push down on the lower locking tongue
72, and pivot the locking arm 64 in the direction of directional
arrow 73 about the pivot pin 66. This would allow the position of
the bolt 16 and optional rounded head 17 to be changed to the
transitional slot 50 and then up towards the upper bolt rest
position 46. The upper locking arm 64 can remain in the position
illustrated in FIG. 4 and when the bolt 16 and optional rounded
head 17 reach the upper location, the upper locking arm 64 would
pivot in a position opposite to the directional arrow 73 in
circular fashion, thus, allowing the bolt 16 and optional rounded
head 17 to enter the upper bolt rest position 46. The upper locking
arm 64 would travel in a circular, clockwise fashion and slide over
the upper locking tongue 72 (pushing the upper locking tongue in a
downward fashion). When the upper locking arm 64 traveled past the
upper locking tongue 72, the upper locking tongue 72 is biased so
as to spring outward thus holding the upper locking arm 64 in the
position illustrated in FIG. 4.
[0065] FIG. 5 illustrates an embodiment of a present invention in
which the walking members are formed of straight vertical members
as opposed to the arcuate members 24 illustrated in FIGS. 1-3. The
embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5 works in a substantially similar
fashion to that illustrated in FIGS. 1-3 with the exception of the
ability to eliminate the spacer 22. In addition, the walking
members 24 illustrated in FIG. 5 are provided with an alternative
rubber strip 74 disposed along the ground-facing surfaces thereof.
The rubber strip 74 may be provided with a flare 76 so as to
provide an enhanced surface for the wearer to walk on. The rubber
strip 74 may also be provided with a tread or textured surface to
enhance traction. In addition, depending on the length of the
transitional slots 50, the down position 44 of the walking members
24 illustrated in FIG. 5 can be either the position identified by
reference numeral 78 which is substantially adjacent to the lower
surface of the wheel 12 or a second position identified by the
reference numeral 80 which is a position below the lower surface of
the wheels 12.
[0066] In the position 80, the walking members 24 would support the
entire weight of the wearer of the in-line skate boot 10, whereas
in the position 78, it is possible that a portion of the weight of
the wearer may be borne by the wheels 12, thus reducing the
wear-and-tear on the walking members 24 and reducing the weight
bearing strength required. It should be noted that in FIG. 3, the
weight of the wearer is shared by the wheels 12 and the walking
members 24, with the ends of the walking members 24 being formed so
as to provide a large ground surface contact area for the walking
members 24 and the wheels 12 to provide a stable walking surface
for the wearer of the in-line skate illustrated in FIG. 1.
[0067] Additionally included in the embodiment shown in FIG. 5 are
an optional pair of recesses 81 disposed on the inner wall surfaces
of the walking members 24. The recesses 81 receive the respective
nuts 18 therein when the walking members 24 are located in the down
position 44. In this fashion, the walking members will be
positioned in contact with the wheel support plates 14, thus adding
to the structural rigidity of the present invention. The spring 54
is sufficiently strong to bias the walking members 24 against the
wheel support plates 14. Further, in this position, it may be
possible for the flared portion 76 of the rubber strip 74 to
contact the wheels 12.
[0068] FIG. 6 illustrates an embodiment of a present invention
which eliminates the need for the walking member control knobs 32.
Specifically, the walking members 24 illustrated in FIG. 6 have an
outer wall surface 82 and an inner wall surface 84. The inner wall
surface 84 of the walking members 24 are provided with a pair of
upper locking pin receptacles 86 and a pair lower locking pin
receptacles 87. The locking pin receptacles 86, 87 are provided to
receive a corresponding pair of locking pins 88 which are disposed
on the nuts 18 which is used to secure the bolts 16 to the wheel
support plates 14. In this embodiment, a spring biased flat top 90
is provided for the bolt 16. A biasing force is provided by the
spring 54 disposed in the spring channel 55 in fashion
substantially similar to that seen in FIG. 3. In this embodiment,
the flat top 90 of the bolt 16 allows the entire walking member 24
to be moved in the direction of the outward directional arrow 56.
The walking member 24 is moved in the direction of the outward
directional arrow 56 a sufficient distance to disengage the locking
pins 88 from the locking pin receptacles 86 or 87. The walking
member 24 is then moved so that the flat top 90 of the bolt 16 is
slid along a channel formed in outer wall surface 82 of the walking
member 24 from the lower bolt rest position 48 to the upper bolt
rest position 46. Once the flat top 90 of the bolt 16 is positioned
in the desired bolt rest position, 46 or 48, the wearer simply
allows the biasing force of the spring 92 to pull the walking
member 24 in a direction opposite to the outward directional arrow
56 thus causing the locking pins 88 to engage in the upper or lower
locking pin receptacles 86, 87.
[0069] This embodiment eliminates the need for a connecting rod 36
between the walking member control knobs 32, thus eliminating the
need for the wearer to operate a plurality of control knobs 32.
This embodiment also contributes to the aerodynamic qualities of
the in-line skates incorporating this embodiment. The wearer simply
has to grasp a walking member 24, pull the walking member 24 in the
direction of the outward directional arrow 56 and slide the walking
member 24 to the desired up or down position, 42, 44. As with the
embodiment seen in FIG. 5, depending upon the length of the
transitional slot 50, the walking member 24 may be positioned in
either of two down positions 78, 80.
[0070] As illustrated for example in FIGS. 7-24, walking members
may also be provided that simply prevent one or more of the wheels
12 from turning. Referring first to the exemplary embodiment
illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8, a walking member 94 which moves
inwardly into engagement with the wheels 12 and outwardly away from
the wheels may be used in conjunction with an in-line skate boot
10' having a brake system 11. The walking member 94 includes a
wheel engagement member 96 and a support device 98 that may be
mounted on the bolts 16 (as shown) or on some other structure added
to the support member. The wheel engagement member 96 preferably
includes high friction surface, such as the exemplary strip 100,
which may be formed from rubber or another suitable material. The
support device 98 includes a series of holes (not shown) through
which the bolts 16 pass to mount the support device on the support
members 14.
[0071] In the exemplary embodiment illustrated FIGS. 7 and 8, the
support device 98 is biased away from the support member 14 and
wheels 12 by a biasing element 102 such as a wavy metal spring (as
shown), helical spring or elastic member. The biasing force may be
overcome, and the walking member 94 urged against the wheels 12,
through rotation of a threaded knob 104 that is mounted on one of
the middle two bolts 16. Nuts are mounted on the ends of the other
bolts 16. Rotation of the knob 104 in one direction will cause the
bolt 16 (and bolt head 17') to move towards the knob, while
rotation in the other direction cause the bolt to move away from
the knob and allow the biasing element to urge the walking member
94 away from the wheels 12. Of course, additional knobs may be
mounted on some or all of the remaining bolts instead of the nuts,
if so desired.
[0072] The walking member 94 may be driven into engagement with the
wheels 12 by a variety of devices other than the exemplary knob
104. As illustrated for example in FIGS. 9 and 10, a sliding member
106, including a main body 108 and a ramp 110, may be mounted on
one of the bolts 16 and secured in place with an end cap 112. The
sliding member 106 also includes an elongate slot 114, which allows
the sliding member to move upwardly and downwardly relative to the
support members 14, and a pair of handle tabs 116 and 118. Downward
movement of the sliding member 106 from the position shown causes
the ramp 110 to engage the cap 112 and pull the bolt 16 toward the
sliding member. As a result, the biasing force provided by the
biasing element 102 is overcome and the walking member 94 is urged
against the wheels 12. The sliding member 106 may be relatively
narrow (measured along the longitudinal axis of the skate) and
mounted on a single bolt 16 (as shown). Alternatively, the sliding
member 106 may be relatively long and have a plurality of slots 114
so it can be mounted on more than one or on all of the bolts
16.
[0073] Turning to FIG. 11, a similar sliding member 120 may be
mounted for horizontal movement on the bolts 16. The exemplary
sliding member 120, which includes a main body 122 and two or more
ramps 124, is held in place by end caps 112 and nuts 18. The ramps
124 engage the end caps 112 as the sliding member 120 moves
rearwardly to drive the walking member 94 against the wheels 12. A
pair of handle tabs 126 and 128 are also provided.
[0074] Another preferred embodiment is illustrated in FIG. 12. The
exemplary walking member 130, which moves inwardly into engagement
with the wheels 12 and outwardly away from the wheels, includes a
wheel engagement member 132 with a high friction surface, such as
the exemplary strip 134 formed from rubber or another suitable
material, and a support device 136. The support device 136 is
pivotably mounted on a base 138 with a hinge 140. A threaded bolt
142, which is mounted on the support member 14, passes through the
support device 136 and a reinforcing element 144 that is mounted on
the support device. A wavy metal spring 102 or other biasing
element located between the reinforcing element 144 and the base
138. Spring 102 biases the associated portion of the support device
136 away from the support member 14 such that the engagement member
132, which is on the opposite side of the hinge 140, is biased
against one or more of the wheels 12. A rotatable knob 146 having a
base 148 is positioned on the end of the bolt 142 against the
support device 136. The knob 146 may be rotated to drive the
portion of the support device 136 associated therewith towards the
support member 14 and drive the engagement member 132 away from the
wheels 12.
[0075] The exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIG. 12 may be
reconfigured in a variety of ways. For example, the spring 102
(which is in compression) may be replaced by a tension spring
located between the support device 136 and the knob base 148.
[0076] As illustrated for example in FIGS. 13-15, a walking member
150 in accordance with another embodiment moves longitudinally into
and out of engagement with the wheels 12. The exemplary walking
member 150 includes a plurality of engagement members 152 and a
support device 154 that supports the engagement members. In the
illustrated embodiment, the support device includes a pair of
brackets 156 that are supported on the bolts 16. Elongate slots 158
allow the brackets 156 to be moved longitudinally. A cam actuated
locking device 160, or other suitable locking device, may be used
to maintain the walking member 150 in a position where it engages
the wheels 12 or in a position where it is out of engagement with
the wheels.
[0077] Another exemplary longitudinally movable walking member,
which is generally represented by reference numeral 162, is
illustrated in FIG. 16. Exemplary walking member 162 includes a
plurality of wheel engagement members 164 and a support device 166.
The support device 166 is generally L-shaped and includes a first
portion 168 with plurality of elongate slots (similar to slots 158
in FIG. 13) through which the bolts 16 extend and a second portion
170 on which the wheel engagement members 164 are supported. The
longitudinal position of the walking member 162 may be fixed with a
cam actuated locking device 160 or other suitable locking
device.
[0078] Another exemplary embodiment that may be used to prevent one
or more wheels from turning by moving a walking member inwardly
into engagement with the wheels is illustrated in FIGS. 17-22 and
may be combined with, for example, the in-line skate boot 10'
illustrated in FIG. 7. The exemplary walking member 172 includes a
pair of wheel engagement members 174 and a support device 176 to
which the wheel engagement members are secured. Although the wheel
engagement members 174 are not limited to any particular shape and
size, the width of the wheel engagement members (measured along the
longitudinal axis of the associated skate) preferably decreases in
the area adjacent to the wheels 12, and the width of the free end
(i.e. the end farthest from the support device 176) should be less
than the space between the wheels. The wheel engagement members in
the illustrated embodiment have a generally tapered, trapezoidal
shaped portion and are sized such that each wheel engagement member
can be wedged between a pair of wheels 12 to prevent rotation. In
other words, the wheel engagement members will engage the rounded
portions of the wheels between the side edges. The wheel engagement
members 174, which are preferably formed from metal or other rigid
material, may also be provided with edge surfaces formed from
rubber or other high friction material.
[0079] The exemplary support device 176 is generally L-shaped and
is pivotably supported on the support member 14' by a pair of pins
178. To that end, the support device 176 includes a corresponding
pair of apertures (not shown) which have a slightly larger diameter
than the pins 178. The relative sizes of the pins 178 and support
device apertures allow the support device to pivot between the
engaged position illustrated in FIGS. 17-19 and the disengaged
position illustrated in FIGS. 20-22. Additionally, although the
support device 176 is supported such that the wheel engagement
members 174 move perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis of the
associated skate, the inventions are not so limited.
[0080] The walking member 172 is biased to the engaged position
illustrated in FIGS. 17-19 by a biasing element 180 such as a
helical spring (shown), a wavy metal spring or an elastic member.
The biasing element 180 exerts force on the support device 176 by
way of a connector 182 with an end stop 184. One example of a
suitable connector 182 and end stop 184 is a nut and bolt
arrangement. The connector 182 extends through apertures 186 and
188 in the support member 14' and support device 176, while the
biasing element 180 is supported on the connector in a compressed
state between the support member and the end stop 184. The
diameters of the apertures 186 and 188 are also slightly larger
than the diameter of the connector 182 in order to allow the
support device 176 to pivot.
[0081] The exemplary implementation illustrated in FIGS. 17-22 also
includes a mechanism 190 for driving the walking member 172 from
the engaged position illustrated in FIGS. 17-19 to the disengaged
position illustrated in FIGS. 20-22. The exemplary mechanism 190
consists of a slidable member 192 that supports a pair cam members
194. The slidable member 192 also includes a slot 196, which allows
the slidable member to slide relative to the connector 182. The cam
members 194 are aligned with, and received within, slots 198 in the
support member 14' when the slidable member 192 is in the engaged
position illustrated in FIGS. 17-19. The slidable member end
portion 200 also extends outwardly beyond the corresponding end of
the support member 14' when the walking member is in the engaged
position. When the slidable member 192 is moved in the direction of
arrow A (FIG. 17) by exerting a force on the end portion 200, cam
surfaces 202 will engage the edges of the slots 198 and drive the
slidable member away from the wheels 12. The slidable member 192
will, in turn, drive the support device 176 as well as wheel
engagement members 174 away from the wheels 12 so that the wheels
will be able to rotate. Once the cam surfaces 202 have moved beyond
the slots 198, slidable member flat surfaces 204 will engage the
side of the support member 14' and the end portion 206 of the
slidable member will extend outwardly beyond the corresponding end
of the support member 14'. The slidable member 192 will remain in
the position illustrated in FIGS. 20-22 until it is moved in the
direction of arrow B (FIG. 20) by exerting a force on the end
portion 206, thereby re-aligning the cam members 194 with the slots
198 so that the biasing member 180 can drive the wheel engagement
members 174 back into engagement with the wheels 12.
[0082] It should be noted here that the exemplary embodiment
illustrated in FIGS. 17-22 is particularly advantageous for those
users who desire hands free walking member operation. More
specifically, a user of skates in accordance with the exemplary
embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 17-22 need only lift his or her
foot and strike the slidable member end 200 to disengage the wheel
engagement members 174 from the wheels 12, or strike the slidable
member end 206 to engage the wheels.
[0083] Another exemplary embodiment that may be used to prevent one
or more wheels from turning by moving a walking member inwardly
into engagement with the wheels is illustrated in FIGS. 23-24B and
may be combined with, for example, the in-line skate boot 10'
illustrated in FIG. 7. Here too, the exemplary embodiment consists
of the walking member 172, including the wheel engagement members
174 and L-shaped support device 176, which is pivotably supported
on the support member 14 by a pair of pins 178. The walking member
172 is biased to the disengaged position illustrated in FIG. 24A by
a biasing element 180, such as a helical spring (shown), a wavy
metal spring or an elastic member, that is positioned between the
support member 14 and the support device 176.
[0084] The exemplary implementation illustrated in FIGS. 23-24B
also includes a mechanism 208 for driving the walking member 172
from the disengaged position illustrated in FIG. 24A to the engaged
position illustrated in FIG. 24B. More specifically, a rotatable
knob 210 is carried on one end of a shaft 212 that extends through
apertures 186 and 188 in the support member 14 and the support
device 176. The end of the shaft 212 opposite the knob 210 is
threaded and extends through a corresponding threaded nut 214 (or
other device) that is secured to the support member 14. Rotation of
the knob 210 results in linear movement of the shaft 212, which
allows the user to selectively engage the wheels 12 with the wheel
engagement members 174.
[0085] Turning to FIGS. 25-29, an exemplary embodiment is shown
that includes walking members which operate without engaging the
wheels 12 and, instead, engage the surface upon which the user is
standing (in a manner similar to that described above with
reference to FIG. 5). The exemplary walking members 216 each
consist of first and second walking member portions 218 and 220
that may be connected to one another when the user desires to walk
(FIGS. 28 and 29), and disconnected when the user desires to skate
(FIGS. 25-27). To that end, the first and second walking member
portions 218 and 220 include mating surfaces 222 and 224. The
second walking member portions 220 are secured to the support
member 14" by the wheel bolts 16 and are separated from the support
member by spacers 226. The first walking member portions 218 are
secured to the second walking member portions 220 by way of biasing
element and connector arrangements similar to those described above
with reference to FIGS. 17-22. The biasing elements 180 bias the
first walking member portions 218 in the direction of the second
walking member portions 220. The connectors 182 extend through
slots 228 in the first walking member portions 218, which allow the
first walking member portions to move vertically, as well as
through apertures 230 in the second walking member portions. The
end stops 184 hold the biasing elements 180 on the connectors 182
and against the second walking member portions 220. The support
member 14" may be provided with apertures 232 to provide clearance
for the biasing elements 180, connectors 182 and/or end stops 184
if desired. Additionally, a high friction surface, such as a strip
234 formed from rubber or another suitable material, may be
provided along the ground-facing surface of first walking member
portions 218.
[0086] In order to move the first walking member portions 218 from
the raised, side by side position illustrated in FIGS. 25-27 to the
lowered, vertically aligned position illustrated in FIGS. 28 and
29, the user will simply slide the first walking member portions
downwardly until the mating surfaces 222 pass the mating surfaces
224. The first walking member portions 218 may then be aligned with
the second walking member portions 220 (FIGS. 28 and 29) and the
biasing force from the biasing elements 180 will help maintain the
walking members portions in their respective positions, as will the
configuration of the mating surfaces 222 and 224 and the weight of
the user. The first walking member portions 218 may be returned to
the raised position illustrated in FIGS. 25-27 by pulling the first
walking members downwardly until the mating surfaces 222 and 224
are free of one another, then pulling the first walking members
outwardly a short distance, then sliding the first walking members
upwardly.
[0087] Like the walking members 24 illustrated in FIG. 5, the
walking members 216 illustrated in FIGS. 25-29 may be configured
such that they support the entire weight of the wearer of the
in-line skate when in the lowered position illustrated in FIGS. 28
and 29. The walking members 216 may, alternatively, be configured
such that a portion of the weight of the wearer is borne by the
wheels 12, thereby reducing the wear-and-tear on the walking
members as well as the weight bearing strength required.
[0088] It should also be noted that the first and second walking
member portions 218 and 220 may be curved so that the first walking
member portions move inwardly and outwardly, in addition to up and
down, in those instances where it is desirable for the first
walking member portions to engage the wheels in a manner similar to
that illustrated in FIG. 3.
[0089] In accordance with another invention herein, which
incorporates many of the above features and advantages, the
inventor has recognized that in certain situations the wearer of
in-line skates may not desire to have walking members attached to
the in-line skate at all times (whether in use or not). As such,
the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 30 provides an alternative to
the embodiments of FIGS. 1-6, while still maintaining the attendant
advantages thereof.
[0090] Referring to FIGS. 30-36, a detachable in-line skate
conversion apparatus 700 is illustrated. The detachable in-line
skate conversion apparatus includes an in-line skate 702 having a
plurality of wheels 712 and a wheel support member or plate 714
between which the wheels 712 are positioned as in the embodiment of
the present invention described above. In the present embodiment,
the support plate 714 is fitted with a series of loops or support
members 716. The support members 716 may be U-shaped (as shown) or
another suitable shape. A plurality of walking members 724 are
provided in a manner similar to the embodiment described above. In
this embodiment, the walking members are provided with a series of
hooks or tongues 718 disposed on the back surface thereof which
detachably engage the support members 716. Thus, the walking
members may be attached to and removed from the in-line skate as
needed. Other suitable coupling devices may, of course, be
substituted for the exemplary loop and hook arrangement.
[0091] The walking members 724 are provided with a resilient member
720 along an upper surface thereof. The resilient member 720
provides a positive bias force away from the surface of the support
plate 714, but the bias force may be overcome by application of
sufficient force by the wearer. As such, the arrows 733 seen in
FIG. 33 illustrate the motion capable by the walking member 724
relative to the support plate 714.
[0092] As in the embodiments described above, the walking members
724 are provided with a grip strip 726 to provide proper friction
with the ground and against the wheels 712. While the grip strip
726 is preferably made of rubber, it may be made of any suitable
material. In addition, a hole 730 is provided at one end of the
walking members 724 to provide a suitable location to provide an
attachment member to attach the walking members 724 to each other,
as seen, for example, in FIG. 33. Any suitable cord 732 could be
utilized for this purpose, including rubber, nylon, or any natural
or synthetic material. The cord 732 may be sized to provide a
further bias force across the front of the wheels 712 in a
direction toward the viewer of FIG. 33.
[0093] Referring more particularly to FIGS. 31 and 33, the hooks or
tongues 718 may be formed integral with the walking member 724 and
include a flat portion 719, a vertical portion 721 and a second
flat portion 723. The hook or tongues 718 may be made of any
suitable material, for example, metal, plastic, ceramic or other
material. The hooks may be formed integral with the walking member
through an injection molding process or may be fastened to the
walking member 724 by heat, adhesive, screws, bolts, rivets or any
other suitable fastening method.
[0094] By providing the resilient member 720, it is possible to
place the walking member up against the support member 714, then
press to overcome the bias force provided by the resilient member
720, and thus insert the hook/tongue 718 through the loops 716.
After insertion, the bias force ensures that the hook and loop 718
and 716 will remain engaged as the wearer walks. The second flat
portion 723 is provided to engage the loop 716 and support the
wearer as the wearer walks. In addition, the bias force produced by
the resilient portion 720 produces a torque about the hook 718-loop
716 connections that pushes the grip strip 726 down towards the
wheels 712 when the wearer picks up their foot. In addition to
assisting in preventing the hook and loop connections from becoming
disengaged, this also assists in preventing inadvertent spinning of
the wheels 712.
[0095] In an alternative embodiment, as seen in FIGS. 34 and 35,
the hook/tongue 717 is shaped so that the upper portion of the hook
717 is open. In this embodiment, the loops 716 will readily engage
the upper flat portion 723 of the hook/tongue 717. As such, with
the bias force of the resilient member 720 providing a proper bias
of the loop 716 against the vertical portion 721 of the hook 717,
the weight of the wearer will be properly supported.
[0096] In addition, the edges 725 of the hook 717, between the
vertical portion 721 and the upper flat surface 723, are rounded to
assist the wearer in installing and removing the walking members
724. The rounding of the hook member 717 may also be utilized in
the previous embodiments and the inventions are in no way limited
to the shape of the hook illustrated in the drawings.
[0097] As seen in FIGS. 35 and 36, an alternative method for
fastening the hooks or tongues 717 to the walking member 724 is
illustrated. The hook or tongue 7170 is attached to the walking
member 724 using fastening members 7171 that may be screws, rivets,
bolts or any other suitable fastener. Alternatively, adhesive could
be used in place of the fasteners or the flanged portions 7173 may
be embedded in the material of the walking member 724. The other
structure of the hook or tongue 7170 is the same as that seen in
FIG. 34, including the flat portion 719, vertical portion 721 and
second flat portion 723. The same fastening techniques can be used
with the hook or tongues 718. As also seen in FIG. 35, the loops
716 may be provided with wings 7174 through which a rivet, screw or
other fastening device 7172 is provided to secure the loop 716 to
the walking member 724. As with the hook or tongue 7170, the wings
7174 may also be fastened to the walking member 724 using adhesive
or may be embedded in the walking member 724.
[0098] As also illustrated in FIGS. 35 and 36, those skilled in the
art will readily appreciate that this embodiment may be altered
such that the hooks/tongues 718 are provided on the support member
714 (FIG. 36) while the loops 716 may be provided on the walking
members 724 (FIG. 35). The combinations of hooks and loops may also
be mixed as FIG. 35 illustrates to include both hooks and loops on
the walking member 724 and the support member 714. In addition, any
suitably shaped hook/loop members may be utilized, and the present
invention is in no way limited to the illustrated hook and loop
structure. In addition, as those skilled in the manufacturing arts
will readily appreciate, the hook/loop connection mechanism may be
provided on the in-line skates during the manufacture of the skate
or may be added by the owner of the skate after the purchase of the
skate.
[0099] In addition, while FIGS. 35 and 36 illustrate the use of
both hooks and/or loops on the walking member 724, the inventions
are not limited to the use of hooks or loops. Any suitable number
and combination of hooks and/or loops may be combined on both the
walking member and in-line skate to assist in removably fastening
the walking member to the in-line skate. In addition, as with the
embodiments of FIGS. 1-6, the walking members 724 are not limited
to the arcuate shape shown in the drawings but may also be flat, or
any other suitable shape.
[0100] While the above-described features of the illustrated
embodiments are representative of preferred embodiments of the
inventions, it should be understood that the present inventions are
in no way limited to devices with such features. Numerous
modifications, additions and substitutions can be made to the
above-described preferred embodiments of the inventions without
departing from the spirit and scope of the inventions.
[0101] For example, numerous locking devices can be substituted for
the devices illustrated in the FIGS. 1-6 to hold the bolt 16 in the
upper or lower position. Similarly, while the illustrated
embodiments includes nuts and spacers in association with the bolts
which hold the wheels in place on the skate, one skilled in the art
would readily recognize that an integral bolting assembly could be
formed which serves several functions, thus eliminating a need for
separate parts. Also, while the preferred embodiment utilizes
injection molded plastic for the walking members described above,
one skilled in the art would readily recognize that light weight
aluminum, ceramic, polyvinylchloride (PVC), and other suitable
materials could be substituted for the plastic of the present
invention.
[0102] Similarly, while the preferred embodiments illustrated in
FIGS. 1-6 and 30-36 include a pair of curved and straight walking
members, one skilled in the art would readily recognize that it
would be possible to incorporate different shapes for the walking
members, or different combinations. For example, one curved and one
straight walking member could be utilized, thus providing a stable
walking platform while securing the wheels through the agency of
the rubber strip disposed along the ground-facing edge of the
curved walking member.
[0103] Turning to FIG. 4, a spring biasing force on the head of the
bolt 16 is not necessarily required in order for the embodiments
illustrated in FIGS. 1-6 to operate. It is also possible to utilize
slots 30 having any desired shape including vertical. The
embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 1-6 are not limited to the shape
of the slots 30 shown in the drawings.
[0104] Through the illustrated embodiments, an in-line skate may be
provided with walking members to allow the wearer thereof to walk
in a substantially normal fashion while wearing the in-line skates,
without fear of falling due to the rolling of the wheels. In
addition to being manufactured for use with original equipment
manufacture in-line skates, the present invention can easily be
provided as an add-on device for existing in-line skates by
replacing the current bolts holding the wheels to the wheel support
plates and replacing them with the bolts sufficient to support the
walking members illustrated in the figures above discussed.
[0105] Lastly, while the bolts 16 in the figures appear to be of
substantial length, one skilled in the art will readily recognize
that the bolts 16 need only be of sufficient length to support the
walking members thereon.
[0106] The discussion above illustrates that numerous
modifications, additions and substitutions can be made to the
present inventions without departing from the spirit and scope
thereof. The inventions are best defined by the claims which appear
below.
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