U.S. patent application number 12/293779 was filed with the patent office on 2009-07-16 for slide play apparatus and blade.
Invention is credited to Junzo Ota.
Application Number | 20090179391 12/293779 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38522125 |
Filed Date | 2009-07-16 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090179391 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Ota; Junzo |
July 16, 2009 |
SLIDE PLAY APPARATUS AND BLADE
Abstract
To provide a slide play apparatus for sliding not only on the
surface of snow but also on the surfaces of lawn and sand. The
apparatus is constructed such that an impact from a sliding surface
to a player can be cushioned and that sliding fun different from
those obtained from conventional slide play apparatuses can be
provided to the player. [Means for Solving the Problems] In the
slide play apparatus 1, a body part 2 has a substantially
cylindrical shape, and a slide board 7 and an upper board 6
positioned over the slide board 7 are connected to each other by a
nose plate 8 and a tail plate 9. Therefore, the nose plate 8 and
the tail plate 9 function as cushions to cushion an impact applied
to the feet of the player P. Since the impact applied to the feet
of the player P is cushioned, the player can have sliding fun and
feeling different from those of the conventional apparatuses.
Inventors: |
Ota; Junzo; (Tokyo,
JP) |
Correspondence
Address: |
MERCHANT & GOULD PC
P.O. BOX 2903
MINNEAPOLIS
MN
55402-0903
US
|
Family ID: |
38522125 |
Appl. No.: |
12/293779 |
Filed: |
March 14, 2007 |
PCT Filed: |
March 14, 2007 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/JP2007/055038 |
371 Date: |
September 19, 2008 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
280/14.22 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63C 5/03 20130101; A63C
2203/46 20130101; A63C 17/0046 20130101; A63C 5/0485 20130101; A63C
5/031 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
280/14.22 |
International
Class: |
A63C 5/03 20060101
A63C005/03 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Mar 20, 2006 |
JP |
PCT/JP2006/305505 |
Claims
1. A slide play apparatus comprising: a slide board having a first
edge at an outer end thereof and sliding on a slope; an upper board
positioned above the slide board; a nose board connecting one end
of the slide board to one end of the upper board; and a tail board
connecting the other end of the slide board to the other end of the
upper board, the slide play apparatus being formed of a substantial
cylinder.
2. The slide play apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the outer
end has a first side curve.
3. The slide play apparatus according to claim 2, wherein a blade
comprising: a protruding portion protruding more outward than the
outer end of the slide board; a second side curve formed on the
outer end of the protruding portion and having a curvature larger
than that of the first side curve; and a second edge disposed on
the outer end of the protruding portion, comes in contact with an
upper surface of the slide board.
4. The slide play apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the slide
play apparatus further comprising two blades disposed crossly with
respect a longitudinal axis of the slide board and having a
substantially X shape as viewed from above, each blade having: a
contact portion coming in contact with the upper surface of the
slide board; curved portions disposed on a nose board side and on a
tail board side; and a fixing portion fixed to a lower surface of
the upper board.
5. The slide play apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the slide
play apparatus further comprising a support member each for
reducing friction between the slide board and one of the two blades
and between the two blades, the support member each being disposed
at portions at which the slide board and the one blade, and the two
blades are crossed.
6. The slide play apparatus according to claim 5, wherein an
elastic body is interposed between the slide board and the upper
board.
7. The slide play apparatus according to claim 6, wherein a width
of the sliding surface is smaller than a width of the boarding
surface.
8. The slide play apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the upper
board has a recessed portion which is depressed toward the slide
board.
9. A pair of blades disposed crossly with respect a longitudinal
axis of a slide board between the slide board and an upper board
disposed thereabove and having a substantially X shape as viewed
from above, each blade comprising: a contact portion coming in
contact with an upper surface of the slide board; curved portions
disposed on both ends of the contact portion; and a fixing portion
each fixed to both ends of the blade to a lower surface of the
upper board, each blade further comprising a protruding portion
protruding more outward than the outer end of the slide board.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to a slide play apparatus for
sliding on a surface of snow, lawn, or the like.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Slide play apparatuses for sliding on a slope with a
player's own weight have been known such as a snowboard for sliding
on a snow surface. A snowboard which has been used according to
previously existing technology is manufactured from a single board
formed of a substantially oval as viewed from above. A lower
surface of the board is used as a sliding surface, and an upper
surface, as a boarding surface on which a player rides. The player
can make a turn to right or left by transmitting his/her weight
shift onto the board (see Japanese Published Patent Application
Publication No. 2004-160095).
DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION
Problems to be Solved by the Invention
[0003] Most snowboards are, however, manufactured from a single
board and are formed of a substantially oval as viewed from above.
Thus, sliding fun and feeling that a player on such snowboards
receives from a snow surface is not so much different from one
another. Further, it is only a single board that is interposed
between the snow surface and the feet of a player, so that an
impact which the player receives from the snow surface is extremely
large.
[0004] The present invention is made in an attempt to solve the
problems and to provide: a slide play apparatus for sliding on a
slope not only a surface of snow but also a surface of lawn, sand,
or the like, which can reduce a physical load subjected to the
player and obtain sliding fun different from that obtained from the
apparatuses according to previously existing technology; and a
blade suited to cushioning the impact.
Means for Solving the Problems
[0005] There is provided a slide play apparatus which includes: a
slide board having a first edge at an outer end and sliding on a
slope; an upper board positioned above the slide board; a nose
board connecting one end of the slide board to one end of the upper
board; and a tail board connecting the other end of the slide board
to the other end of the upper board, and which is formed of a
substantial cylinder.
[0006] With the invention described above, the slide play apparatus
is formed of a substantial cylinder, and the slide board and the
upper board positioned above the slide board are connected with the
nose board and the tail board. Therefore, the nose board and the
tail board function as cushions to cushion an impact applied to the
feet of a player. Since the impact applied to the feet of the
player is cushioned, the player can have sliding fun and feeling
different from that obtained from the apparatuses according to
previously existing technology.
[0007] In the present invention, the outer end may have a first
side curve.
[0008] With the invention described above, the outer end has a
first side curve. Therefore, a first edge disposed at the outer end
and having a curve catches the sliding surface, which enables a
turn to be made smoothly.
[0009] In the present invention, a blade includes; a protruding
portion protruding more outward than the outer end of the slide
board; a second side curve formed on the outer end of the
protruding portion and having a curvature larger than that of the
first side curve; and a second edge disposed on the outer end of
the protruding portion, and the blade may come in contact with the
upper surface of the slide board.
[0010] With the invention described above, the blade has the
protruding portion having the second edge positioned more outward
than the first edge disposed on the outer end of the slide board,
and the blade comes in contact with the upper surface of the slide
board. Therefore, the slide board and the blade tilt when the
player shifts his/her weight, which allows the second edge disposed
on the protruding portion to catch the sliding surface. The second
side curve having the curvature larger than that of the first side
curve of the slide board is disposed on the outer end of the
protruding portion, which allows a turn to be made sharply. The
player can make various types of turns because the player can use
the first edge or the second edge as he/she likes by adjusting the
weight shift.
[0011] The blade in the present invention means a board interposed
between the slide board and the upper board, functioning as a
cushion for absorbing an impact, and guiding a turn by contacting
with the sliding surface.
[0012] In the present invention, two blades are disposed crossly
with respect the longitudinal axis X of the slide board to have a
substantially X shape as viewed from above. Each blade may have a
contact portion coming in contact with the upper surface of the
slide board, curved portions disposed on a nose board side and on a
tail board side, and a fixing portion fixed to the lower surface of
the upper board.
[0013] Herein, description of the present invention is made
assuming that a left foot of a player is positioned frontward in a
sliding direction.
[0014] With the invention described above, the two blades each
having the curved portions disposed on the nose board side and on
the tail board side are disposed crossly with respect the
longitudinal axis X of the slide board to have a substantially X
shape as viewed from above. That is, one blade is disposed at a
part covering from a left foot tiptoe through a right foot heel.
The other blade is disposed a part covering from a left foot heel
through a right foot tiptoe. Therefore, if the player shifts the
weight to a left foot tiptoe side, a distance between the fixing
portion and the contact portion on the left foot tiptoe side is
compressed, and, at the same time, because of reaction force, a
distance between the fixing portion and the contact portion on a
right foot heel side is extended. This facilitates a smooth weight
shift of the player due to elasticity of the blade.
[0015] Further, the curved portion of the blade functions as a
cushion, which cushions an impact applied to the feet of the
player.
[0016] In the present invention, a support member for reducing
friction between the slide board and the blade and between the two
blades may be disposed at respective portions at which the slide
board and the blade, and the two blades are crossed.
[0017] With the invention described above, friction caused when the
slide board and the blade, and the two blades each come in contact
with each other can be reduced. This enables a smooth slide of the
blade.
[0018] In the present invention, an elastic body may be interposed
between the slide board and the upper board.
[0019] With the invention described above, the interposition of the
elastic body between the slide board and the upper board enhances a
cushioning property therebetween, which allows a flexible response
to a vertical load subjected to the upper board and the slide
board.
[0020] In the present invention, a width of the sliding surface is
smaller than that of the boarding surface.
[0021] With the invention described above, the frictional
resistance of the sliding surface is reduced, and a sliding speed
is increased. Additionally, a possible range of the weight shift is
narrowed, thus enabling a turn to be made easily.
[0022] In the present invention, the upper board may have a
recessed portion which is depressed toward the slide board.
[0023] With the invention described above, a height of the foot of
the player can be lowered, thus enabling the player to get on and
off the slide play apparatus without difficulty. Further, a
distance between the foot of the player and the slide board is
reduced. This makes it possible to easily transmit the weight shift
of the player onto the slide board, thus enabling a further smooth
slide.
[0024] In the present invention, the two blades are disposed
crossly with respect the longitudinal axis X of the slide board
between the slide board and the upper board disposed thereabove to
have a substantially X shape as viewed from above. Each blade has
the contact portion coming in contact with the upper surface of the
slide board, the curved portions disposed on both ends of the
contact portion, and the fixing portion fixing both ends of the
blade to the lower surface of the upper board. Each blade further
has a protruding portion protruding more outward than the outer end
of the slide board.
[0025] With the invention described above, the blade with the
curved portions provided therein is interposed between the slide
board and the upper board. Therefore, an impact applied to the
slide board and the upper board can be reduced.
[0026] In the present invention, the slide play apparatus can
cushion the impact applied to the feet of the player and can give
the player sliding fun and feeling different from that obtained
from the slide play apparatuses according to previously existing
technology.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0027] FIG. 1 A perspective view showing a slide play apparatus
according to a first embodiment.
[0028] FIG. 2 Views each showing the slide play apparatus according
to the first embodiment. FIG. 2(a) is a side view showing the slide
play apparatus. FIG. 2(b) is a side view showing a body part
thereof. FIG. 2(c) is a cross sectional view showing the apparatus
when cut along the line F-F in FIG. 2(b). FIG. 2(d) is an enlarged
view of the part G in FIG. 2(c),
[0029] FIG. 3 A plan view showing the slide play apparatus
according to the first embodiment.
[0030] FIG. 4 A rear view showing the slide play apparatus
according to the first embodiment.
[0031] FIG. 5 A front view showing the slide play apparatus as
viewed from a nose board according to the first embodiment.
[0032] FIG. 6 Views each showing a blade according to the first
embodiment. FIG. 6(a) is a perspective view. FIG. 6(b) is a cross
sectional view when cut along the line H-H in FIG. 6(a). FIG. 6(c)
is an enlarged view of the part I in FIG. 6(b).
[0033] FIG. 7 A cross sectional view when cut along the line D-D in
FIG. 2.
[0034] FIG. 8 A cross sectional view when cut along the line E-E in
FIG. 2.
[0035] FIG. 9 A cross sectional view when cut along the line A-A in
FIG. 4.
[0036] FIG. 10 A cross sectional view when cut along the line B-B
in FIG. 4.
[0037] FIG. 11 A cross sectional view when cut along the line C-C
in FIG. 4.
[0038] FIG. 12 A front view showing the slide play apparatus in a
resting state according to the first embodiment, in which a weight
of a player acts thereon in a vertical direction.
[0039] FIG. 13 A view showing the slide play apparatus in an
operating state according to the first embodiment, in which a
player shifts his/her weight to his/her left foot along a sliding
direction.
[0040] FIG. 14 Views each showing the slide play apparatus in an
operating state according to the first embodiment. FIG. 14(a) is a
front view showing the state in which the player shifts his/her
weight to a left foot front side (tiptoe side). FIG. 14(b) is a
front view showing the state in which the player shifts his/her
weight to a left foot rear side (heel side).
[0041] FIG. 15 A cross sectional view at a lapping portion La
showing the slide play apparatus in an operating state according to
the first embodiment, in which the player directs toward a central
part C.
[0042] FIG. 16 A perspective view showing the slide play apparatus
in an operating state according to the first embodiment, in which
the player makes a turn.
[0043] FIG. 17 Views each showing a second embodiment. FIG. 17(a)
is a perspective view showing a slide play apparatus. FIG. 17(b) is
a cross sectional view when cut along the line J-J in FIG.
17(a).
[0044] FIG. 18 Views each showing the second embodiment. FIG. 18(a)
is a cross sectional view when cut along the line K-K in FIG.
17(a). FIG. 18(b) is a cross sectional view when cut along the line
L-L in FIG. 17(a).
[0045] FIG. 19 A perspective view showing a third embodiment.
[0046] FIG. 20 Views each showing a fourth embodiment. FIG. 19(a)
is a perspective view showing a slide play apparatus. FIG. 19(b) is
a cross sectional view when cut along the line V-V in FIG. 19(a).
FIG.(c) is a sectional side view showing a body part.
[0047] FIG. 21 Views each showing a support member according to the
fourth embodiment. FIG. 21(a) is a perspective view. FIG. 21(b) is
a side view.
[0048] FIG. 22 An enlarged side view showing a joint according to
the fourth embodiment.
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
[0049] Embodiments of the present invention are described in detail
hereinafter with reference to related drawings. In the description,
the same reference numerals are assigned to the same components,
and the overlapped description thereof is omitted herefrom. Arrows
in FIG. 1 indicating up, down, right, left, front, and rear are
applicable to the description in whole, if not otherwise
specified.
First Embodiment
[0050] As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, a slide play apparatus 1 in
the first embodiment includes: a body part 2 formed of a
substantially elongated cylinder; a blade 3 including an upper
blade 3a and a lower blade 3b; a spring 4 inserted between an upper
board 6 and a slide board 7 of the body part 2; and support members
5, 5 (see FIG. 2) disposed at a part (a central part C) at which
the upper blade 3a and the lower blade 3b intersect.
[0051] As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the body part 2 includes: an
upper board 6 on which a player P rides; a slide board 7 for
contacting with a sliding surface; a nose board 8 for connecting a
left side end of the upper board 6 and a left side end of the slide
board 7; and a tail board 9 for connecting a right side end of the
upper board 6 and a right side end of the slide board 7. As shown
in FIG. 2(a) and FIG. 2(b), the body part 2 is formed of a
substantially elongated circle as viewed from a lateral side and is
substantially symmetrical with respect to a vertical axis Z.
[0052] As shown in FIG. 3, the upper board 6 is formed of a
substantially elongated circle having a constricted portion K in
the middle thereof as viewed from above and is substantially
symmetrical with respect to a longitudinal axis X and an
across-the-width axis Y.
[0053] An upper surface of the upper board 6 includes boarding
portions 11 on which the player P rides. The blade 3 to be
described later is fixed to a lower surface of the upper board 6. A
foot fixing instruments T (see FIG. 1) for fixing a foot of the
player P is provided on an upper surface of the boarding portion
11. A position of the foot fixing instrument T may be changed
according to a height, a playing style, or the like of the player
P. A well-known technique such as a binding may be used in
providing the foot fixing instrument T. The constricted portion K
may not be provided.
[0054] As shown in FIG. 2(c), FIG. 2(d) and FIG. 4, the slideboard
7 is flat. Each of two outer ends 13, 13 has first edges 14a, 14b
made of carbon steel. An upper surface of the slide board 7
contacts with the blade 3 to be described later. As shown in FIG.
4, the outer ends 13, 13 have respective first side curves R (for
example, a radius of the side curve of 8.8 m) As shown in FIG. 5,
the slide board 7 has a width smaller than that of the upper board
6. In the first embodiment, the outer end 13 has the first side
curve R, however, is not limited to this configuration. The outer
end 13 may be formed linearly.
[0055] As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the nose board 8 connects the
left side end of the upper board 6 and the left side end of the
slide board 7. The tail board 9 connects the right side end of the
upper board 6 and the right side end of the slide board 7. The nose
board 8 and the tail board 9 are each curved to protrude
outwardly.
[0056] In the first embodiment, the slide board 7 is formed flat,
however, is not limited to this configuration. The slide board 7
may have a raised central part as a camber (not shown).
[0057] In the first embodiment, the body part 2 is formed
substantially symmetrical with respect to the longitudinal axis X,
the across-the-width axis Y, and the vertical axis Z. This is
advantageous in that the body part 2 is equally used even when
either a right foot or a left foot is put forward. In the first
embodiment, the body part 2 is formed as described above, however,
is not limited to this configuration. The body part 2 may be formed
asymmetrical.
[0058] In the first embodiment, the nose board 8 and the tail board
9 are formed as described above, however, are not limited to this
configuration. The nose board 8 and the tail board 9 may be formed
vertically to the slide board 7. The nose board 8 and the tail
board 9 may be formed streamlined.
[0059] As shown in FIG. 6, the blade 3 is formed of a substantially
X shape as viewed from above and includes an upper blade 3a
disposed on an upper side and a lower blade 3b disposed on a lower
side. The upper blade 3a and the lower blade 3b are formed of a
substantially same shape and have each a C shape with an upper part
thereof opened as viewed from above.
[0060] Description hereinafter assumes that a left foot of the
player P is put on a left side on the upper board 6.
[0061] As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 6, the upper blade 3a includes:
on a front side (a toe side) of the left foot, a left foot front
fixation portion 31 fixed to the lower surface of the upper board
6; a left foot front contact portion 32 positioned below the left
foot front fixation portion 31 and contacted by the upper surface
of the slide board 7; and a left foot front curved portion 33
connecting the left foot front fixation portion 31 and the left
foot front contact portion 32; and, on a right foot rear side (on a
heel side) of the right foot, a right foot rear fixation portion 34
fixed to the lower surface of the upper board 6; a right foot rear
contact portion 35 positioned below the right foot rear fixation
portion 34 and contacted by the upper surface of the slide board 7;
and a right foot rear curved portion 36 connecting the right foot
rear fixation portion 34 and the right foot rear contact portion
35.
[0062] As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 6, the lower blade 3b includes:
on a rear side (a heel side) of the left foot, a left foot rear
fixation portion 37 fixed to the upper surface of the upper board
6; a left foot rear contact portion 38 positioned below the left
foot rear fixation portion 37 and contacted by the upper surface of
the slide board 7; and a left foot rear curved portion 39
connecting the left foot rear fixation portion 37 and the left foot
rear contact portion 38; and, on a front side (on a toe side) of
the right foot, a right foot front fixation portion 40 fixed to the
lower surface of the upper board 6; a right foot front contact
portion 41 positioned below the right foot front fixation portion
40 and contacted by the upper surface of the slide board 7; and a
right foot front curved portion 42 connecting the right foot front
fixation portion 40 and the right foot front contact portion
41.
[0063] The left foot front fixation portion 31, right foot rear
fixation portion 34, left foot rear fixation portion 37, and right
foot front fixation portion 40 may each be simply referred to as a
fixation portion. The left foot front contact portion 32, right
foot rear contact portion 35, left foot rear contact portion 38,
and right foot front contact portion 41 may each be simply referred
to as a contact portion. The left foot front curved portion 33,
right foot rear curved portion 36, left foot rear curved portion
39, and right foot front curved portion 42 may each be simply
referred to as a curved portion.
[0064] As shown in FIG. 4 and FIG. 7, the blade 3 includes a
protruding portion 43 (including protruding portions 43a to 43d)
protruding more outward than the outer ends 13, 13 of the slide
board 7. As shown in FIG. 6(b) and FIG. 6(c), a second edge 45b
made of carbon steel is disposed at the outer end 44b of the
protruding portion 43b. Similarly, second edge 45a, 45c and 45d are
disposed at the protruding portions 43a, 43c and 43d. As shown in
FIG. 7, a second side curve r formed on the outer end 44 (44a to
44d) of the protruding portion 43 has a radius smaller (or a
curvature larger) than that of a first side curve R formed on the
outer ends 13, 13 of the slide board 7. As shown in FIG. 7, the
blade 3 includes a lapping portion L (La to Ld) having torsion
starting from a central part C of the slide board 7 in respective
longitudinal directions of the left foot front contact portion 32,
right foot rear contact portion 35, left foot rear contact portion
38, and right foot front contact portion 41.
[0065] As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 6(a), the blade 3 comes in
contact with the upper surface of the slide board 7 at the left
foot front contact portion 32, right foot rear contact portion 35,
left foot rear contact portion 38, and right foot front contact
portion 41. The blade 3 can slide on the upper surface of the slide
board 7 because it comes in contact only with the upper surface of
the slide board 7.
[0066] As shown in FIG. 8, the left foot front fixation portion 31,
right foot rear fixation portion 34, left foot rear fixation
portion 37, right foot front fixation portion 40 are each fixed to
the lower surface of the upper board 6.
[0067] As shown in FIG. 9, the upper blade 3a, lower blade 3b,
upper board 6, and slide board 7 are disposed in this order from
top to bottom and substantially in parallel to one another, at a
central intersection part of the blade 3. Respective cross sections
of the upper blade 3a and the lower blade 3b are curved downwards.
This facilitates a catch of a sliding surface by the blade 3.
However, the curved cross sections may not be necessarily
provided.
[0068] As shown in FIG. 10, the upper blade 3a and lower blade 3b
have respective torsion angles, .alpha. and .beta., so as to have
substantially chevron shapes at respective lapping portions Ld and
Lb (see FIG. 7). More specifically, the upper blade 3a is warped at
a prescribed angle from a horizontal axis h at a center of the
upper blade 3a in a counterclockwise direction. The lower blade 3b
is warped at a prescribed angle from a horizontal axis f at a
center of the lower blade 3b in a clockwise direction. The upper
blade 3a and lower blade 3b have torsion angles also at the lapping
portions La and Lc.
[0069] As shown in FIG. 9, the central part C has a torsion angle
of 0.degree.. As shown in FIG. 11, the contact portions 35, 41 (as
well as the contact portions 32, 38) each have a torsion angle of
0.degree.. That is, the lapping portions La to Ld (see FIG. 7) are
lapped so as to maximize the torsion angles .alpha. and .beta. in
substantially middle parts between the central part C and the
contact portions 32, 35, 38 and 41, respectively. Further, the
torsion angle .alpha. of the upper blade 3a is made larger than the
torsion angle .beta. of the lower blade 3b. This is because the
upper blade 3a has a longer lapping distance than the lower blade
3b as the formed is positioned more upwards than the latter. It is
desirable that the torsion angles .alpha. and .beta. satisfy
following inequalities, respectively:
0.degree.<.alpha.<45.degree. and
0.degree.<.beta.<45.degree.
[0070] As shown in FIG. 11, the outer ends 44b, 44d at respective
protruding portions 43b, 43d (as well as the outer ends 44a, 44c at
respective contact portions 32, 38) have equivalent relative
heights at the contact portions 35, 41. That is, a distance from
the second edge 45b of the outer end 44b to the sliding surface is
equivalent to a distance from the second edge 45d of the outer end
44d to the sliding surface. This allows the player P to make a turn
equally to right and left.
[0071] The blade 3 is not limited to have a configuration as
described in the first embodiment. The lapping portion L may not be
provided, for example. The blade 3 may have a torsion angle at the
contact portions 32, 35, 38 and 41 (not shown).
[0072] As shown in FIG. 9, the spring 4 is interposed between the
lower surface of the upper board 6 and the upper surface of the
upper blade 3a, at the central part C of the body part 2. Rubber M
is disposed both an upper end and a lower end of the spring 4 so as
to closely attach the spring 4 to the upper board 6 and the upper
blade 3a, respectively. The spring 4 in the first embodiment has a
diameter of about 8 cm. The rubber M may not be used. The
interposition of the spring 4 between the upper board 6 and the
slide board 7 enhances a cushioning property therebetween, which
allows a flexible response to a vertical load subjected to the
upper board 6 and the slide board 7.
[0073] In the first embodiment, an elastic body interposed between
the upper board 6 and the slide board 7 is the spring 4, however,
is not limited to this configuration. A well-known elastic body
such as rubber (not shown) may be used. A size, a type, or the like
of the elastic body may be selected according to a size and a
material of the body part 2, a weight and a playing style of the
player P, or the like. In the first embodiment, one unit of the
spring 4 is used, however, a plurality of springs may be used. A
position of the spring 4 is not specifically limited.
[0074] As shown in FIG. 9, the support member 5 is a ball transfer
with a spherical body installed therein and serves for a smooth
slide of the blade 3. The support member 5 used in the first
embodiment is, for example, manufactured by FREEBEAR Corporation
(FreeBare: C-85).
[0075] As shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 9, two support members 5 are
interposed, each at the central part C, between the lower surface
of the upper blade 3a and the upper surface of the lower blade 3b
and between the lower surface of the lower blade 3b and the upper
surface of the slide board 7. In one of the two support members 5,
a spherical body installed therein is formed to come in contact
with the lower surface of the upper blade 3a. In another support
member 5, a spherical body installed therein is formed to come in
contact with the upper surface of the slide board 7.
[0076] The blade 3 slides according to a weight shift of the player
P as described later. Therefore, the blade 3 slides smoothly by
interposing the support members 5 at a part where the upper blade
3a and the lower blade 3b intersect and at a part where the lower
blade 3b and the slide board 7 intersect.
[0077] In the first embodiment, an iron plate (not shown) is each
disposed at a part where the spherical body installed in the
support member 5 comes in contact with the lower surface of the
upper blade 3a and the upper surface of the slide board 7. In the
first embodiment, the support member 5 is a ball transfer, however,
is not limited to this. The support member 5 may be a well-known
means for a smooth slide of two plates being in contact with each
other.
[0078] In the first embodiment, the first edge 14 and the second
edge 45 are made of carbon steel, however, are not limited to this,
and any other material may be used.
<Manufacture Method>
[0079] Next is described a method of manufacturing the slide play
apparatus 1.
[0080] The body part 2 is unitarily formed and is made of carbon
fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) having elasticity and high
strength. As shown in FIG. 2(c), in the first embodiment, the body
part 2 (or a carbon fiber reinforced plastic plate 51) is formed by
laminating commercially available prepreg while changing
orientation directions of fiber thereof, into a tubular mold, and
allowing it to cure. The prepreg may be, for example, Besfight
(registered trademark) (original yarn: HTA-12K, containing a 37% by
mass of epoxy resin) manufactured by TOHO TENAX Co., Ltd.
[0081] As shown in FIG. 2(c) and FIG. 2(d), the slide board 7 is
formed by adhering the polyethylene plate 52 to the lower surface
of the carbon fiber reinforced plastic plate 51 with an epoxy
resin-based adhesive. The first edges 14a, 14b made of
chevron-shaped carbon steel are fitted to both ends of the
polyethylene plate 52 and are attached by pressure to the carbon
fiber reinforced plastic plate 51 and the polyethylene plate
52.
[0082] Material of which the body part 2 is made is not limited to
the carbon fiber reinforced plastic, and may be, for example, glass
fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene
(ABS), or the like. Further, the material is not limited to resin
and may be wood, metal, or the like. The material is preferably
light and excellent in durability, elasticity and strength.
[0083] In the first embodiment, the body part 2 is unitarily
formed, however, is not limited to this configuration. The body
part 2 may be formed by joining separately-formed boards such as,
for example, the upper board 6, slide board 7, nose board 8, and
tail board 9.
[0084] Alternatively, the body part 2 maybe formed in a so-called
sandwich structure, in which a wooden board or foamed polyurethane
is interposed between a pair of carbon fiber reinforced plastic
plates 51, 51.
[0085] As shown in FIG. 6(a), FIG. 6(b) and FIG. 6(c), to form the
blade 3, both ends of the carbon fiber reinforced plastic plate 51,
in which the fixing portions 31, 34, 37, 40 and the protruding
portion 43 are formed, are curved and are adhered to the lower
surface of the upper board 6. More specifically, the upper blade 3a
and the lower blade 3b are crossed at respective substantially
central parts and are fixed to the lower surface of the upper board
6 at the left foot front fixation portion 31 and right foot rear
fixation portion 34 and at the left foot rear fixation portion 37
and right foot front fixation portion 40, respectively (see FIG.
8). The second edge 45 (45a to 45d) is disposed at the outer end 44
(44a to 44d). The respective central parts of the upper blade 3a
and the lower blade 3b are preferably lapped over the central part
C of the body part 2 (see FIG. 7).
[0086] In the first embodiment, material of which the blade 3 is
made is carbon fiber reinforced plastic, however, is not limited to
this. For example, the material may be glass fiber reinforced
plastic (GFRP), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, (ABS), or the
like. Further, the material is not limited to resin and may be
wood, metal, or the like. The material is preferably light and
excellent in durability, elasticity and strength. The material for
the body part 2 may be different from that for the blade 3.
[0087] The support members 5, 5 are interposed between the upper
blade 3a and lower blade 3b and between the lower blade 3b and the
upper surface of the slide board 7 (see FIG. 2). An iron plate is
each embedded at the part where the spherical body of the support
member 5 comes in contact with the lower surface of the upper blade
3a and the upper surface of the slide board 7. Respective centers
of the spring 4 and the support members 5 are preferably lapped
over the central part C of the body part 2. In the first
embodiment, a configuration is provided, but is not limited to,
that each spherical body of the support members 5 is brought into
contact with the lower surface of the upper blade 3a and the upper
surface of the slide board 7 (see FIG. 9).
[0088] The spring 4 is then interposed between the upper board 6
and the upper blade 3a. In the first embodiment, an upper end of
the spring 4 and the lower surface of the upper board 6 as well as
a lower end of the spring 4 and the upper surface of the upper
blade 3a are fixed with an epoxy resin adhesive. The spring 4 may
not necessarily be fixed but may only come in contact with the
lower surface of the upper board 6 and the upper surface of the
upper blade 3a utilizing elasticity of the spring 4.
[0089] In the first embodiment, a configuration is provided, but is
not limited to, that the blade 3 and the lower surface of the upper
board 6 are fixed to each other with the epoxy resin adhesive. Any
other adhesive or a fastening member such as a screw may be used
for the fixation. Both an adhesive and a fastening member may be
used for the fixation.
[0090] As shown in FIG. 1 through FIG. 4, the slide play apparatus
1 according to the first embodiment has a longitudinal length
thereof of about 150 cm and a length between the lower surface of
the slide board 7 and the upper surface of the upper board 6 of
about 20 cm. The body part 2 has a thickness of about 1.5 cm. The
upper board 6 has a maximum width of about 35 cm and a width at the
constricted portion K of about 25 cm. The slide board 7 has a width
of 22 cm. As shown in FIG. 4, the first side curve R of the slide
board 7 has a radius of about 8.8 m (see FIG. 4), and the second
side curve r of the blade 3 has radius of about 8.2 m. In the first
embodiment, a configuration is provided, but is not limited to,
that the first side curve R and the second side curve r are formed
of circular arcs. The curves may be formed of quadratic curves of
the like.
[0091] Dimensions described above are not intended to limit the
present invention.
[0092] The manufacture method described above is only for
illustration and is not intended to limit the present
invention.
<Operations>
[0093] Next are described operations of the slide play apparatus 1.
In the first embodiment, description is made assuming a slide on
snow surface (piste).
[0094] As shown in FIG. 1, the slide play apparatus 1 has foot
fixing instruments T, T fixed to the upper board 6, into which feet
of the player P are fixed, and, when the player P goes on to a
slope (sliding surface), slides on the sliding surface with the
player P's own weight. In the first embodiment, description is made
assuming that a left foot of the player is positioned frontward in
a sliding direction.
[0095] In the first embodiment, a term "compressed" means that a
distance between the upper board 6 and the slide board 7 (between
the fixing portion and the contact portion) becomes smaller than
that in a resting state, due to a weight shift of the player P.
Herein, the resting state is referred to as a state in which the
player P's weight acts on the slide board 7 in a vertical
direction. Further, a term "extended" means that the distance
between the upper board 6 and the slide board 7 (between the fixing
portion and the contact portion) becomes smaller than that in the
resting state.
(Sliding Straight)
[0096] As shown in FIG. 12, the player P can slide straight by
acting his/her weight on the slide board 7 in the vertical
direction. That is, if the player P's weight acts on the slide
board 7 in the vertical direction, the second edges 45a, 45c
disposed on the blade 3 do not come in contact with the sliding
surface S. This allows a substantially whole area of the lower
surface of the slide board 7 to come in contact with the sliding
surface, thus enabling the player P to slide straight.
[0097] As shown in FIG. 13, if the player P shifts the weight to
the left foot along the sliding direction, the distance between the
upper board 6 and the slide board 7 on a left foot side is
compressed (see arrow 55), and, at the same time, the distance
therebetween on a right foot side is extended (see arrow 56)
because of reaction force of the blade 3. This facilitates a smooth
weight shift.
(Making a Turn)
[0098] As shown in FIG. 14, the slide play apparatus 1 according to
the first embodiment makes a turn when the player P shifts his/her
weight to bring the first edge 14 or second edge 45 into contact
with the sliding surface S (that is, make the first edge 14 or
second edge 45 sink into the sliding surface S).
[0099] Herein, description is made assuming that the player P makes
a turn to the right in the sliding direction (in a direction of
arrow 62 of FIG. 16).
[0100] As shown in FIG. 14(a), if the player P shifts his/her
weight to a left foot front side (tiptoe side), the distance
between the upper board 6 and the slide board 7. on the left foot
font side (tiptoe side) is compressed (see arrow 57), and, at the
same time, the distance therebetween on a rear side (heel side) is
extended (see arrow 58). This tilts the slide play apparatus 1 as a
whole at a degree of .gamma. to allow the first edge 14a to catch
the sliding surface S.
[0101] Then the protruding portion 43a of the upper blade 3a is
pushed in a direction of the weight shift. This allows the second
edge 45a to catch the sliding surface S, enabling a turn to be made
sharply.
[0102] More specifically, if the player P shifts his/her weight to
the left foot font side (tiptoe side), the distance between the
left foot front fixation portion 31 and the left foot front contact
portion 32 is compressed, and, at the same time, the distance
between the right foot rear fixation portion 34 and the right foot
rear contact portion 35 is extended because of reaction force of
the compression (see FIG. 6). At this time, the protruding portion
43a slides along with the weight shift of the player P, because the
left foot front contact portion 32 and the right foot rear contact
portion 35 are only in contact with the upper surface of the slide
board 7, though the left foot front fixation portion 31 and the
right foot rear fixation portion 34 of the upper blade 3a are fixed
to the lower surface of the upper board 6.
[0103] As shown in FIG. 15, when the distance between the left foot
front fixation portion 31 and the left foot front contact portion
32 of the upper blade 3a is compressed (see FIG. 6), the upper
blade 3a turns around in a direction of arrow 60 owing to the
torsion in the lapping portion La. Since the upper blade 3a has
both ends thereof fixed at the left foot front fixation portion 31
and the right foot rear fixation portion 34, the protruding portion
43a then slides with the upper surface of the slide board 7 and is
pushed in the direction of the weight shift (see arrow 61). As
shown in FIG. 14(a), this allows the second edge 45a disposed in
the protruding portion 43a to catch the sliding surface S.
[0104] In the central part C, the upper blade 3a, lower blade 3b,
and the support member 5, 5 slide toward the rear side (heel side).
That is, as shown in FIG. 9, respective centers of the upper blade
3a, the lower blade 3b, and the support members 5, 5 are
substantially lapped over the central part C in resting state.
However, when the weight shift of the player P to the left foot
front side (tiptoe side), the upper blade 3a, the lower blade 3b
and the support member 5, 5 are pushed to slide toward the heel
side.
[0105] As shown in FIG. 16, if the weight is shifted to the left
foot front side (tiptoe side), a load is also applied to the tiptoe
side of the right foot, which compresses a distance between the
right foot front fixation portion 40 and the right foot front
contact portion 41 (see arrow 59). Nevertheless, the weight of the
player P is consistently applied to the left foot front side, the
distance between the left foot front fixation portion 31 and the
left foot front contact portion 32 is more compressed than the
distance between the right foot front fixation portion 40 and the
right foot front contact portion 41. The protruding portion 43d
slides along a shift of the player P due to an action similar to
that of the protruding portion 43a to be pushed toward the sliding
surface S. This allows the second edge 45d to catch the sliding
surface S (see arrow 63).
[0106] For the reasons described above, the second edge 45a
disposed on the protruding portion 43a, the first edge 14a disposed
on the slide board 7, and the second edge 45d disposed on the
protruding portion 43d catch the sliding surface. Further, the
player P can make a turn sharply, because the protruding portions
43a, 43d having the second edges 45a, 45d are each provided with a
second side curve r (see FIG. 7) having a radius smaller than that
of the first side curve R of the slide board 7.
[0107] The protruding portions 43a, 43d are pushed toward the
sliding surface S along with the weight shift of the player P. This
allows the second edges 45a, 45d to keep on contacting with the
sliding surface S without bouncing back from the sliding surface S
while the player P is making a turn.
[0108] Further, the player P can make a sharp turn and good
braking, if the player P makes a turn in a direction of arrow 62
while shifting the weight (applying a large load) to the right foot
front side (tiptoe side). This is because the edge 45d disposed on
the protruding portion 43d further catches the sliding surface
S.
[0109] As shown in FIG. 14(b), if the player P makes a turn to the
left, the player P shifts his/her weight to a left foot rear side
(heel side).
[0110] The player P can also make a turn to the left by shifting
the weight to the right foot front side (tiptoe side) or the right
foot rear side (heel side).
[0111] The player P can make various types of turns because the
player P can use the first edge 14 or the second edge 45
accordingly by adjusting the weight shift.
[0112] As shown in FIG. 14(a), if the player P shifts his/her
weight to the left foot front side (left foot tiptoe side, the
distance between the upper board 6 and the slide board 7 on the
front side is compressed (see arrow 57), and, at the same time, the
distance between the upper board 6 and the slide board 7 on the
rear side (heel side) is extended (see arrow 58). At this time, as
shown in FIG. 6, because the blade 3 is formed of a substantially X
shape as viewed from above, the distance between the left foot
front fixation portion 31 and the left foot front contact portion
32 is compressed, and, at the same time, the distance between the
right foot rear fixation portion 34 and the right foot rear contact
portion 35 is extended because of reaction force of the
compression. This facilitates a smooth weight shift in a diagonal
direction of the longitudinal axis.
[0113] The slide play apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment
has a configuration in which the body part 2 is formed of a
substantial cylinder, and the slide board 7 and the upper board 6
positioned above the slide board 7 are connected with the nose
board 8 and the tail board 9. In the configuration, the nose board
8 and the tail board 9 serves as cushions, to thereby cushion an
impact exerted on the feet of the player P. Since the impact
exerted on the feet of the player P is cushioned, the player P can
have sliding fun and feeling different from those obtained from
conventional apparatuses.
[0114] The slide play apparatus 1 has the outer end 13 of the slide
board 7, having the first side curve R. This allows a turn to be
made smoothly because the first edge 14 catches the sliding surface
S along the first side curve R.
[0115] The blade 3 has the protruding portion 43 with the second
edge 45 disposed thereon. The second edge 45 is positioned further
outside than the first edge 14 disposed on the outer end 13 of the
slide board 7. Upon the weight shift of the player P, the blade 3
slides in a direction of the weight shift, and the second edge 45
disposed on the protruding portion 43 catches the sliding surface
S. The player P can make a sharper turn because the second side
curve r formed on the outer end 44 of the protruding portion 43 has
a curvature larger than that of the first side curve R of the slide
board 7.
[0116] The slide play apparatus 1 includes the upper blade 3a and
the lower blade 3b disposed crossly with respect the longitudinal
axis X of the slide board 7 to have a substantially X shape as
viewed from above. If the player P puts his/her weight, for
example, on the left foot front side (tiptoe side), the distance
between the left foot front fixation portion 31 and the left foot
front contact portion 32 is compressed, and, at the same time, the
distance between the right foot rear fixation portion 34 and the
right foot rear contact portion 35 is extended because of reaction
force of the compression. This facilitates a smooth weight shift of
the player P. Further, the curved portion of the blade 3 also
enhances a cushioning property.
[0117] The slide play apparatus 1 has the support member 5. This
allows friction caused between the slide board 7 and the blade 3
which are in contact with each other to be reduced, thus enabling a
smooth slide of the blade 3.
[0118] The slide play apparatus 1 has the spring 4 interposed
between the upper board 6 and the slide board 7. This enhances a
cushioning property therebetween, which allows a flexible response
to a vertical load subjected to the upper board 6 and the slide
board 7.
[0119] The slide board 7 has a width smaller than that of the upper
board 6. This allows frictional resistance of the slide board 7 to
be reduced and a possible range of the weight shift to be narrowed,
thus enabling a turn to be made easily.
[0120] As described above, the embodiment according to the present
invention has been explained in detail with reference to the
related drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to
the embodiment, and various changes are possible without departing
from the gist of the present invention.
Second Embodiment
[0121] As shown in FIG. 17, a slide play apparatus 71 includes: a
body part 72 formed of a substantial cylinder; a blade 73; a spring
74 interposed therein at a central part thereof; and a support
member (not shown) interposed between the blade 73 and a slide
board 82.
[0122] The blade 3 in the first embodiment is formed by combining
two boards. However, as shown in FIG. 17(a) and FIG. 17(b), the
blade 73 in the second embodiment includes a central part W, and a
foot portion 76 (76a to 76d) extending from the central part W to
have a substantially X shape as viewed from above.
[0123] The blade 73 has a curved portion 78 (78a to 78d) formed by
bending the foot portion 76. An end 77 (77a to 77d) of the foot
portion 76 is fixed to a lower surface of the upper board 79.
[0124] As shown in FIG. 17(b), the blade 73 has a protruding
portion 85 (85a to 85d) protruding more outward than outer ends
(shown in dotted lines) of the slide board 82. A second side curve
r is formed on an outer end 86 (86a to 86d) of the protruding
portion 85 and has a radius smaller than that of a first side curve
R formed on the outer end 85 of the slide board 82. A second edge
84 (84a to 84d) is disposed on the outer end 86 (86a to 86d) of the
protruding portion 85.
[0125] As shown in FIG. 18(a), the foot portions 76b, 76d of the
blade 73 are formed of a substantial chevron when cut along the
line K-K in FIG. 17(b). As shown in FIG. 18(b), when the foot
portion 76b and the foot portion 76d come in contact with an upper
surface of the slide board 82, the foot portions 76b, 76d are
horizontally positioned.
[0126] A manufacture method and operations in the second embodiment
are substantially same as those in the first embodiment, and
description thereof is omitted herefrom.
[0127] In the second embodiment, the blade 73 has the foot portion
76 extending from the central part W to have a substantially X
shape as viewed from above. That is, the blade 73 is formed from a
single board. This prevents the upper blade 3a and the lower blade
3b from having different distances therebetween, unlike in the
first embodiment. Therefore, it becomes easy to lap the foot
portions 76a to 76d of the blade 73.
Third Embodiment
[0128] In the first embodiment and the second embodiment, the feet
of the player P are fixed at right angles with respect to a
longitudinal direction of the slide play apparatuses 1, 71.
However, the present invention is not limited to this
configuration. For example, as shown in FIG. 19, one of the feet of
the player P is fixed to one of a pair of the slide play
apparatuses 90, 90, and the other to the other. In this case, the
feet of the player P are fixed in parallel with respect to a
longitudinal direction of the slide play 1.
[0129] In the third embodiment, the slide play apparatus 90
includes: a body part 93 including an upper board 91 and a slide
board 92; a blade 94; a spring 95; and a support member (not
shown). Each width of the upper board 91 and the slide board 92 is
formed to be smaller than a width of the player P. A length in the
longitudinal direction of the slide play apparatus 90 is formed
shorter than that of the slide play apparatus 1, and is about 100
cm. Each foot of the player P is fixed substantially above the
spring 95.
[0130] A manufacture method and operations in the third embodiment
are substantially same as those in the first embodiment, and
description thereof is omitted herefrom.
[0131] In the third embodiment, the slide play apparatus 90 has a
configuration as described above, however, is not limited to this.
The length, width, or the like of the slide play apparatus 90 may
be determined according to a height and a playing style of the
player P.
Fourth Embodiment
[0132] As shown in FIG. 20, a slide play apparatus 110 according to
a forth embodiment is different from the embodiments described
above in structures of an upper board 116 and a support member
130.
[0133] As shown in FIG. 20(a) and FIG. 20(c), the upper board 116
of the slide play apparatus 110 has recessed portions 120, 120
substantially equally spaced from a central part C. As shown in
FIG. 20(c), the recessed portion 120 is formed by putting a dent in
a portion of the upper board 116 toward the slide board 117. A
bottom face of the recessed portion 120 is flat, to which the foot
of the player P is fixed with a foot fixing instrument T.
[0134] With the recessed portion 120 on the upper board 116, a
height of the foot of the player P is lowered, thus enabling the
player P to get on and off the slide play apparatus 110 without
difficulty. Further, a distance between the foot of the player and
the slide board 117 is reduced. This makes it possible to easily
transmit a weight shift of the player P onto the slide board 117,
thus enabling a further smooth slide. Alternatively, as shown in
FIG. 20(b), both ends of the upper board 116 may be curved downward
from the central part C thereof.
[0135] In the fourth embodiment, as shown in FIG. 20(c), the upper
board 116 has the central part C is positioned higher than the
bottom face of the recessed portion 120, however, is not limited to
this configuration. For example, the central part C may be formed
as high as the bottom face of the recessed portion 120.
Additionally, the recessed portion 120 may have any other
shape.
[0136] As shown in FIG. 20(b) and FIG. 21(a), a support member 130
in the fourth embodiment penetrates a through hole 131 formed in
the lower blade 113b and is disposed between the slide board 117
and the upper blade 113a.
[0137] The support member 130 includes: a rotating body 132
disposed to be in contact with above and below; a rotational axis
133 inserted into the rotating body 132; a T-shaped support metal
134 into which the rotational axis 133 is inserted; and a joint 135
jointing the T-shaped support metal 134 and the lower blade
113b.
[0138] The rotating body 132 includes a first rotating body 132a
positioned below and a second. rotating body 132b positioned above,
which are spherical bodies having same diameters and made of hard
rubber. A lower end of the first rotating body 132a is in contact
with the slide board 117, and an upper end thereof, with the second
rotating body 132b. A lower end of the second rotating body 132b is
in contact with the first rotating body 132a, and an upper end
thereof, with the upper blade 113a.
[0139] The rotational axis 133 includes a first rotational axis
133a and a second rotational axis 133b, which are inserted into
respective centers of the first rotating body 132a and the second
rotating body 132b. Axis directions of the first rotational axis
133a and the second rotational axis 133b are parallel to a
longitudinal direction of the slide play apparatus 110 and are
horizontal. Both ends of the rotational axis 133 are provided with
grooves, on which respective nuts 133c are screwed for
fixation.
[0140] T-shaped support metal 134 is configured by a first T-shaped
support metal 134a and a second T-shaped support metal 134b in a
pair. The T-shaped support metal 134 pivotally supports the
rotating body 132 and is jointed to the lower blade 113b via the
joint 135. As shown in FIG. 22, the T-shaped support metal 134
includes: a long hole 136; a base portion 137 on which the long
hole 136 is created; and an outrigger 138 vertically formed from
the base portion 137. Two long holes 136 are created on the base
portion 137 and have each an oval cross section elongated upward
and downward. The long hole allows the rotational axis 133 to be
inserted thereinto and to move up and down therein. That is, a
diameter of the rotational axis 133 is formed smaller than a width
of the long hole, 136. The nuts 133c disposed at both ends of the
rotational axis 133 are fixed at respective positions spaced apart
from the base portion 137. The outrigger 138 extends parallel to
the longitudinal direction of the slide play apparatus 110 and is
jointed to the lower blade 113b via the joint 135.
[0141] As shown in FIG. 22, the joint 135 joints the T-shaped
support metal 134 and the lower blade 113b. The joint 135 includes
an absorber 140 with a communication hole for communicating the
outrigger 138 and the lower blade 113b, which are fixed with a bolt
142 and a nut 143 via a washer 141. The absorber 140 is formed of a
cylinder having a hollow portion into which the bolt 142 is
inserted. The absorber 140 is constricted in a middle portion
thereof. That is, both ends of the absorber 140 are formed thicker
than the middle portion. The absorber 140 may be, for example, a
well-known rubber bush. The absorber 140 is used for absorbing load
acting on the support member 130 and allowing a travel thereof in
the longitudinal direction. Further, the absorber 140 flexibly
responds to a load subjected thereto, because both ends of the
absorber 140 are formed thicker than the middle portion.
[0142] With the support member 130, if the player P shifts his/her
weight in a front/rear direction (on a tiptoe/heel side), the first
rotating body 132a and the second rotating body 132b rotate about
the rotational axis 133 while coming in contact with above and
below. This causes a smooth slide of the upper blade 113a and the
lower blade 113b in a width direction thereof. The support member
130 with the absorber 140 inserted thereinto absorbs load acting
thereon and allows a travel of the upper blade 113a and the lower
blade 113b in the longitudinal direction. This makes it possible to
make a sharp turn, because, similarly to the slide play apparatus 1
in the first embodiment, the player P's weight shift enables the
second edges of the upper blade 113a and the lower blade 113b to
catch a sliding surface.
[0143] Suppose that the rotational axis 133 is fixed to the
T-shaped support metal 134. The first rotating body 132a and the
second rotating body 132b gall to create a gap therebetween,
rotating without any contact with each other. In the fourth
embodiment, however, the long hole 136 is formed to allow the
rotational axis 133 to travel up and down therein. This makes it
possible for the first rotating body 132a and the second rotating
body 132b to be constantly in contact with each other, when a load
of the player P acts on the upper board 116, thus preventing
rotation without contact.
[0144] In the fourth embodiment, the support member 130 used has a
configuration as described above, however, other configuration is
also available. For example, the rotating body 132 used is
spherical, however, it may be oval spherical. The T-shaped support
metal 134 used is a pair of metal members, however, may be
integrally formed. A shape and a material of the absorber 140 may
be determined according to a playing style of the player P. A
cushion may be provided in the long hole 136 in accordance with an
inner shape thereof so as to prevent the long hole 136 and the
rotational axis 133 from galling.
[0145] As described above, the embodiment according to the present
invention has been explained with reference to the related
drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the
embodiments, and various changes are possible without departing
from the gist of the present invention. Further, the present
invention may be used not only for recreation but also for other
purpose.
[0146] In the first and second embodiments, the slide play
apparatus 1 is used in a substantially same way as a snowboard.
However, for example, the slide play apparatus 1 may be used in a
same way as a sled by putting a box-like body suited for carrying
something or someone on the upper board 6 of the slide play
apparatus 1. This case is described with reference to FIG. 16. A
player rides in a box-like body (not shown) disposed on the upper
board 6. The player can operate the slide play apparatus 1 by
shifting his/her weight with substantially same operations as those
in the first embodiment.
[0147] Further, the slide play apparatus with such a box-like body
put an object (including a person) therein may be pulled from a
side of the nose board 8 (see FIG. 1). For example, if pulled from
a side of arrow 62 in FIG. 16, a load of the object put in the
box-like body acts on the blade 3 according to a pulling direction
or a change in the sliding surface S. This makes the blade 3 slide,
and the slide play apparatus 1 thus slides smoothly following the
pulling direction, because the second edge 45a acting in the
pulling direction catches the sliding surface S. Moreover, the
slide play apparatus 1 has the protruding portion 43, which can
prevent an overturn thereof due to an abrupt operation.
[0148] The slide play apparatus according to the present invention
may only include the body part 2 without including the blade 3,
spring 4, and support member 5, for example (see FIG. 2(b)). This
configuration minimizes components of the slide play apparatus to
make the slide play apparatus lighter and to be applied to a play
containing aerial actions.
[0149] In the first embodiment, description is made assuming that
the slide play apparatus according to the present invention slides
on a snow surface, however, is not limited to this configuration.
The slide play apparatus may slide on a surface of, for example,
lawn, sand or water.
[0150] In the first embodiment, the blade 3 is used for the slide
play apparatus 1, however, is not limited to this configuration.
The blade 3 may be used for other structure.
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