Apparatus, System, And Method To Couple A User To A Recreational Device

Abstract

An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for coupling a user to a recreational device. The apparatus includes a base plate, a heel cup, an ankle retention member, a toe retention member, a cable, at least one cable anchor, and a tensioning device. The base plate receives a user's foot. The heel cup is coupled to a heel end of the base plate. The ankle retention member extends over an ankle of the user and the toe retention member extends over a toe area of the user's foot. The cable anchor(s) are coupled to at least one of the base plate and the heel cup. The cable is receivable within the cable retention anchor. The tensioning device is coupled to the cable and reduces a length of free cable to increase a pressure applied to the ankle retention member and the toe retention member.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/857,111 entitled "APPARATUS, SYSTEM, AND METHOD TO COUPLE A USER TO A RECREATIONAL DEVICE" and filed on Jul. 22, 2013 for Randy Myron Hutchison Jr., which is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] This subject matter relates to recreational travel and more particularly relates to bindings for devices for recreational traversing.

BACKGROUND

[0003] Snowboards, water skis, wakeboards, snowshoes and other recreational devices are all coupled to a user's foot in various manners. Bindings are separate components from the recreational device and are very important parts of the total recreational device's interface. The bindings' main function is to hold the rider's boot in place tightly to transfer their energy to the recreational device. There are several types of bindings.

[0004] Strap-in, step-in, and hybrid bindings are used by most recreational users. For instance, with modern snowboard strap-in bindings, the rider wears a boot which has a thick but flexible sole, and padded uppers. The foot is held onto the board with two buckle straps--one strapped across the top of the toe area, and one across the ankle area.

[0005] Step-in systems have been produced with the goal of improving the performance of the boots and bindings. Step-in bindings offer a quicker way to couple the user's foot to the recreational device but have been relatively unsuccessful in the market as the performance of these bindings is thought to be inferior to the performance of the strap-in bindings.

[0006] There are also proprietary systems that seek to combine the convenience of step-in systems with the control levels attainable with strap-ins. An example is the Flow binding system, which is similar to a strap-in binding, except that the foot enters the binding through the back. The back flips down and allows the boot to slide in; it's then flipped up and locked into place with a clamp, eliminating the need to loosen and then re-tighten straps every time the rider frees and then re-secures his rear foot. The rider's boot is held down by an adjustable webbing that covers most of the foot. While these systems have improved the speed with which a user can couple his/her foot to the recreational device, the systems are still lacking in performance and speed.

SUMMARY

[0007] From the foregoing discussion, it should be apparent that a need exists for an apparatus, system, and method that combine the convenience of step-in systems with the control levels attainable with strap-ins.

[0008] The present subject matter has been developed in response to the present state of the art, and in particular, in response to the problems and needs in the art that have not yet been fully solved by currently available binding systems. Accordingly, the present subject matter has been developed to provide an apparatus, system, and method for coupling a user to a recreational device that overcome many or all of the above-discussed shortcomings in the art.

[0009] The apparatus to couple a user to a recreational device, in one embodiment, includes a base plate, a heel cup, an ankle retention member, a toe retention member, a cable, at least one cable anchor, and a tensioning device. The base plate is configured to receive a user's foot. The heel cup is coupled to a heel end of the base plate. The heel cup is configured to receive a heel of the user's foot. The ankle retention member extends over an ankle of the user and the toe retention member extends over a toe area of the user's foot when a user positions their foot in baseplate and heel cup. The at least one cable anchor is coupled to at least one of the base plate and the heel cup. The cable is receivable within the cable retention anchor. The tensioning device is coupled to the cable and is configured to reduce a length of free cable to increase a pressure applied to at least one of the ankle retention member and the toe retention member.

[0010] In certain embodiments, rotation of the tensioning device wraps the cable about a spool to reduce the length of free cable. In an exemplary embodiment, the tensioning device includes a ratchet member that is configured to allow the tensioning device to rotate in a first direction and to selectively prohibit rotation of the tensioning device in a second direction.

[0011] The cable retention anchor(s), in one embodiment, extend perpendicularly from either or both of the base plate and the heel cup to engage the cable at an area adjacent either or both of the user's ankle and the user's toe area when the user's foot is positioned within the base plate. In certain embodiments, the cable retention anchors include at least two cable retention anchors. In such an embodiment a first cable retention anchor extends perpendicularly from either the base plate or the heel cup to engage the cable at an area adjacent the user's ankle when the user's foot is positioned within the base plate. A second cable retention anchor extends perpendicularly from an area adjacent the user's toe area when the user's foot is positioned within the base plate.

[0012] In certain embodiments the apparatus includes a first capping element extending axially from an end of the first cable retention anchor and a second capping element extending axially from an end of the second cable retention anchor. The first capping element is configured to maintain engagement between the first cable retention anchor and the cable. The second capping element is configured to maintain engagement between the second cable retention anchor and the cable.

[0013] In one embodiment, the cable anchor is a substantially rigid cable retention element that extends along at least a portion of the base plate. The cable retention element defines a channel sized to receive the cable. The channel extends along an area adjacent a user's ankle and a user's toe area when the user's foot is positioned within the base plate.

[0014] In a further embodiment, the apparatus includes a pull-tab coupled to the cable. In such an embodiment the pull-tab may be used to facilitate engagement between the cable and the cable anchor. In embodiments wherein the apparatus includes two cable anchors, the pull-tab is slideable along the cable to facilitate engagement between the cable and the at least two cable anchors.

[0015] In one embodiment, the apparatus also includes a sleeve disposed about the cable. In such an embodiment, the cable is slideable through the sleeve and the sleeve and the cable are receivable within the cable retention anchor. The sleeve is configured to protect the cable from damage from contacting the cable retention anchors.

[0016] An apparatus for coupling a user to a recreational device is also disclosed which includes a base plate, a heel cup, an ankle retention member, a toe retention member, a cable, a sleeve, at least one cable anchor, and a tensioning device. The base plate is configured to receive a user's foot. The heel cup is coupled to a heel end of the base plate. The heel cup is configured to receive a heel of the user's foot. The ankle retention member is coupled to either the base plate or the heel cup and is configured to extend over an ankle of the user. The toe retention member is coupled to the base plate and is configured to extend over a toe area of the user's foot. The cable extends from the ankle retention member to the toe retention member. The sleeve is disposed about the cable and the cable is slideable through the sleeve. The cable anchor(s) are coupled to either the base plate, the heel cup, or both. The cable and the sleeve are receivable within the cable retention anchor. The tensioning device is coupled to the cable and is configured to reduce a length of free cable to increase a pressure applied to either the ankle retention member, the toe retention member, or both.

[0017] In a further embodiment, an apparatus for coupling a user to a recreational device is also disclosed which includes a base plate, a heel cup, an ankle retention member, a toe retention member, a cable, a cable anchor, and a tensioning device. The base plate is configured to receive a user's foot. The heel cup is coupled to a heel end of the base plate. The heel cup is configured to receive a heel of the user's foot. The ankle retention member is coupled to either the base plate or the heel cup and is configured to extend over an ankle of the user. The toe retention member is coupled to the base plate and is configured to extend over a toe area of the user's foot. The cable extends from the ankle retention member to the toe retention member. The cable anchor is a substantially rigid cable retention element extending along at least a portion of the base plate. The cable retention element defines a channel sized to receive the cable. The channel extends along an area adjacent a user's ankle and a user's toe area when the user's foot is positioned within the base plate. The tensioning device is coupled to the cable and is configured to reduce a length of free cable to increase a pressure applied to either the ankle retention member, the toe retention member, or both.

[0018] Reference throughout this specification to features, advantages, or similar language does not imply that all of the features and advantages that may be realized with the present subject matter should be or are in any single embodiment. Rather, language referring to the features and advantages is understood to mean that a specific feature, advantage, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present subject matter. Thus, discussion of the features and advantages, and similar language, throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, refer to the same embodiment.

[0019] Furthermore, the described features, advantages, and characteristics of the subject matter may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize that the subject matter may be practiced without one or more of the specific features or advantages of a particular embodiment. In other instances, additional features and advantages may be recognized in certain embodiments that may not be present in all embodiments of the subject matter.

[0020] These features and advantages of the present subject matter will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, or may be learned by the practice of the subject matter as set forth hereinafter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] In order that the advantages of the subject matter will be readily understood, a description of the subject matter will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments that are illustrated in the appended drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the subject matter and are not therefore to be considered to be limiting of its scope, the subject matter will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0022] FIG. 1 depicts a perspective view illustrating one embodiment of an apparatus to couple a user to a recreational device in accordance with the present subject matter;

[0023] FIG. 2 depicts a perspective view further illustrating one embodiment of the apparatus to couple a user to a recreational device in accordance with the present subject matter;

[0024] FIG. 3 depicts a perspective view illustrating another embodiment of an apparatus to couple a user to a recreational device in accordance with the present subject matter;

[0025] FIG. 4 is a front view further illustrating the apparatus of FIG. 3 in accordance with the present subject matter;

[0026] FIG. 5 is a perspective view illustrating another embodiment of an apparatus to couple a user to a recreational device in accordance with the present subject matter; and

[0027] FIG. 6 is a perspective view illustrating another embodiment of an apparatus to couple a user to a recreational device in accordance with the present subject matter.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] Reference throughout this specification to "one embodiment," "an embodiment," or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present subject matter. Thus, appearances of the phrases "in one embodiment," "in an embodiment," and similar language throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment.

[0029] Furthermore, the described features, structures, or characteristics of the subject matter may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. In the following description, numerous specific details are provided for a thorough understanding of the embodiments of the subject matter. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize, however, that the subject matter may be practiced without one or more of the specific details, or with other methods, components, materials, and so forth. In other instances, well-known structures, materials, or operations are not shown or described in detail to avoid obscuring aspects of the subject matter.

[0030] FIG. 1 depicts a perspective view illustrating one embodiment of an apparatus 100 to couple a user to a recreational device 102 in accordance with the present subject matter. In certain embodiments, the apparatus 100 includes a base plate 104, a heal cup 106, an ankle retention member 108, a toe retention member 110, a cable 112, at least one cable anchor 114a and 114b (collectively 114), and a tensioning device 116. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, the apparatus 100 is a snowboard binding and the recreational device 102 is a conventional snowboard. In other embodiments, the apparatus 100 may be any other binding type device configured to couple a user to a recreational device. For example, in one embodiment, the apparatus 100 may be used to couple a user to a waterski, or a wakeboard. In yet another embodiment, the apparatus 100 may be used to couple a user to a snowshoe, a ski, or any other snow traversing device. One of skill in the art will recognize other recreational devices that may benefit from the present apparatus 100. As used herein, the apparatus 100 will be discussed with reference to a binding for a snowboard recognizing however that the subject matter is not limited to such a binding or to a snowboard.

[0031] In one embodiment, the base plate 104 is a conventional base plate as found on a conventional snowboard binding. The base plate 104 provides a support structure for receiving a user's foot. Thus, in one embodiment, the base plate 104 is shaped substantially similar to a shape of the user's foot. In an exemplary embodiment, the base plate 104 is sufficiently sized to receive user's boot or shoe.

[0032] In one embodiment, walls 118a and 118b extend perpendicularly from either side of the base plate 104 and serve to keep the user's foot, shoe, or boot positioned on the base plate 104. In one embodiment, the walls extend about the periphery of the base plate 104 along at least three sides of the base plate 104 to form a foot receiving area on top 122 of the base plate 104. For example, in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, the walls 118a and 118b extend from both sides of the base plate 104 and meet at the heel end 124 of the base plate to form the heel cup 106. A toe end 126 of the base plate 104 is substantially free from any walls. One of skill in the art will recognize that in other embodiments, the heel cup 106 may be a separate component coupled to the base plate 104 by a mechanical fastener such as a screw or other fastening device.

[0033] As discussed above, in certain embodiments, the base plate 104 is configured to receive a user's foot, boot, or shoe. Similarly, the heel cup 106, being coupled to or integral with the base plate 104 at the heel end 126 of the base plate 104, is configured to receive a heel of a user's foot or a heel of a user's boot or shoe.

[0034] In an exemplary embodiment, the ankle retention member 108 is coupled at one end of the ankle retention member 108 to either the wall 118b extending from the base member 104, the base member 104 itself, or the heel cup 106. In other embodiments, the ankle retention member 108 may be coupled at one end to the recreational device 102 itself. When the user positions their foot within the apparatus 100, the ankle retention member 108 is configured to extend over the user's ankle. As further discussed below, the ankle retention member 108 operates to draw the user's heel into the heel cup 106 when the apparatus 100 is tightened about the user's boot, shoe, or foot.

[0035] The toe retention member 110, in certain embodiments, is coupled at one end to the wall 118b extending from the base plate 104. In other embodiments, the toe retention member 110 may be coupled to the base plate 104 or to the recreational device 102 itself. When the user positions their foot within the apparatus 100, the toe retention member 110 is configured to extend over a toe area of a user's foot.

[0036] While the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1-4 depict an ankle retention member 108 and a toe retention member 110, one of skill in the art will recognize that in certain embodiments, the ankle retention member 108 and the toe retention member 110 may be combined into a single strap having an ankle retention portion and a toe retention portion. In another embodiment, either the ankle retention member 108 or the toe retention member 110 may be omitted and the apparatus 100 may use a single strap to hold the user's foot in the base plate 104. In yet another embodiment, both the ankle retention member 108 and the toe retention member 110 may be omitted. In such an embodiment, the cable 112 may be anchored at one end to the base plate 104 and coupled to the tensioning device 116 at the other end.

[0037] The cable 112 includes a first end 128 and a second end 130. In certain embodiments, the first end 128 of the cable 112 is coupled to either the ankle retention member 108 or the toe retention member 110. The second end 130 of the cable 112 is coupled to the tensioning device 116 which is coupled to the other of the ankle retention member 108 or the toe retention member 110. For example, in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, the first end 128 of the cable 112 is coupled to the toe retention member 110 and the second end 130 of the cable 112 is coupled to the tensioning device 116. In certain embodiments, a coupling element 132 may be fastened to the first end 128 of the cable to facilitate coupling the first end 128 of the cable 112 to either the toe retention member 110 or the ankle retention member 108.

[0038] The tensioning device 116 is supported by either the base plate 104, the heal cup 106, the ankle retention member 108, or the toe retention member 110 and the second end 130 of the cable 112 is coupled to the tensioning device 116. Rotation of the tensioning device 116 in a first direction wraps the cable 112 about a spool to reduce a length of the cable 112 that extends from the tensioning device 116. Rotation of the tensioning device 116 in a second direction (opposite the first direction) unwraps the cable about the spool to increase the length of the cable 112 that extends from the tensioning device 116.

[0039] In one embodiment, the tensioning device 116 is coupled to the second end 130 of the cable 112. In such an embodiment, the tensioning device 116 may be free floating rather than being coupled to the base plate 104, the heal cup 106, the ankle retention member 108, or the toe retention member 110. In such an embodiment, the tensioning device 116 may operate in manner substantially similar to the manner just described. That is, Rotation of the tensioning device 116 in a first direction wraps the cable 112 about a spool to reduce a length of the cable 112 that extends from the tensioning device 116. Rotation of the tensioning device 116 in a second direction (opposite the first direction) unwraps the cable about the spool to increase the length of the cable 112 that extends from the tensioning device 116.

[0040] Thus, the tensioning device 116 is coupled to the cable and reduces a length of free cable when the tensioning device 116 is rotated in a first direction. The reduced length of free cable increases the pressure applied to either the ankle retention member 108, the toe retention member 110, or both.

[0041] In certain embodiments, the apparatus 100 includes at least one cable anchor 114a and 114b coupled to either the base plate 104 or the heel cup 106. For example, in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, a first cable anchor 114a is coupled to the wall 118a that extends from the base plate 104 and a second cable anchor 114b is coupled to the heel cup 106. In use, the user positions his or her foot, boot, or shoe in the area between wall 118a and 118b with their heel positioned in the heel cup 106. The cable 112 is then positioned around the first cable anchor 114a and the second cable anchor 114b. The tensioning device 116 is rotated to wrap the cable 112 about the spool to reduce the length of the cable 112 that extends from the tensioning device 116. Rotation of the tensioning device 116 in the first direction tightens the cable 112 and places pressure on the both the ankle retention member 108 and the toe retention member 110 to keep the user's foot positioned within the apparatus 100. In this manner, the user can quickly and easily tighten or loosen the apparatus 100 to make entry or exit of the apparatus 100 easier for the user. In one embodiment, the apparatus 100 may be adjusted based on the skill level of the user of the recreational device 102.

[0042] The cable retention anchors 114a and 114b extend perpendicularly from either the base plate 104 or the heel cup 106 to engage the cable 112 at an area adjacent to either or both of the user's ankle and the user's toe area when the user's foot is positioned within the base plate 104. In certain embodiments, the apparatus 100 includes two or more cable retention anchors 114 with one of the cable retention anchors (i.e., the second cable retention anchor 114a) extending perpendicularly from wall 118a or from the heel cup 106 to engage the cable 112 at an area adjacent the user's ankle when the user's foot is positioned within the base plate 104. The other cable retention anchor (i.e., the second cable retention anchor 114b) extends perpendicularly from an area adjacent the user's toe area when the user's foot is positioned within the base plate. When the tensioning device 116 is rotated, the cable 112, in cooperation with the cable retention anchors 114 apply pressure to keep the user's foot positioned within the apparatus 100.

[0043] In one embodiment, the first cable retention anchor 114a includes a first capping element 134a that extends axially from an end of the first cable retention anchor 114a opposite the end of the first cable retention anchor 114a that is coupled to the wall 118a extending from the base plate 104. Similarly, in certain embodiments, the second cable retention anchor 114b includes a second capping element 134b that extends axially from an end of the second cable retention anchor 114b opposite the end of the second cable retention anchor 114b that is coupled to the wall 118a extending from the base plate 104 (or from the heel cup 106). In such embodiments, the first capping element 134a is configured to maintain engagement between the first cable retention anchor 114a and the cable 112 and the second capping element 134b is configured to maintain engagement between the second cable retention anchor 114b and the cable 112. When the tensioning device 116 is rotated in a first direction the length of the cable 112 is reduced to draw the ankle retention member 108 and the toe retention member 110 in a direction towards the wall 118a extending from the base plate 104. In this position, the user's foot is firmly held within the base plate 104 and heel cup 106.

[0044] In an exemplary embodiment the apparatus 100 includes a pull-tab 136 coupled to the cable 112. The pull-tab 136, in one embodiment, may be used to facilitate engagement of the cable 112 with the cable 112 and at least one of the cable anchors 114a and/or 114b. In certain embodiments, the pull-tab 136 is slideable along the cable 112 to facilitate engaging the cable 112 with both the first cable anchor 114a and the second cable anchor 114b. While the embodiments depicted in FIGS. 1-4 illustrate the pull-tab 136 as having a rectangular shape, one of skill in the art will recognize that the pull-tab 136, in other embodiments, may have any geometric shape. In other embodiments, the pull-tab 136 may have a shape configured to facilitate grasping the pull-tab 136 with a gloved hand (i.e., a handle shape).

[0045] In certain embodiments, the tensioning device 116 includes a ratchet member (not shown) either coupled to or integral with the tensioning device 116. The ratchet member is configured to allow the tensioning device 116 to freely rotate in the first direction to reduce the length of cable 112 that extends from the tensioning device 116 and tighten the apparatus 100 about the user's foot, boot, or shoe. For example, in one embodiment, to tighten the apparatus 100 about a user's foot, boot, or shoe, the tensioning device 116 is rotated in the direction of arrow 138 which reduces the length of the cable 112 to tighten the apparatus. An internal ratchet member allows the rotation of the tensioning device 116 in the first direction but selectively prohibits rotation of the tensioning device 116 in the second direction (the direction of arrow 140). Extending the tensioning device 116 away from the point at which it is anchored (i.e., on the ankle retention member 108) disengages the ratchet member to allow the user to selectively increase the length of cable 112 that extends from the tensioning device 116 to loosen the apparatus 100 about the user's foot, boot or shoe. In one embodiment, the ratchet member is substantially similar to a conventional ratcheting wrench as is known in the art. Another example of a tensioning device 116 and ratchet member that may be used with the present apparatus is the closure system produced by Boa Technologies which is incorporated herein by reference. One of skill in the art will recognize other tensioning devices 116 that may be used with the present apparatus 100.

[0046] FIG. 2 depicts a perspective view further illustrating one embodiment of the apparatus 100 to couple a user to a recreational device 102 in accordance with the present subject matter. The embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2 depicts the apparatus 100 in an open orientation.

[0047] To open the apparatus 100, the ratchet member of the tensioning device 116 is positioned in a position that allows the tensioning device 116 to lengthen the cable 112. The cable 112 is then disengaged from the first cable anchor 114a and the second cable anchor 114b. In certain embodiments, the pull-tab 136 may be used to assist the user in disengaging the cable 112 from the first cable anchor 114a and the second cable anchor 114b. In other embodiments, the cable 112 may be removed from the first cable anchor 114a and the second cable anchor 114b by grasping the cable 112 itself.

[0048] With the cable 112 disengaged from the first cable anchor 114a and the second cable anchor 114b, the ankle retention member 108 and the toe retention member 110 can be folded back in the direction of arrow 202 to allow the user to remove their foot from within the base plate 104 and heel cup 106.

[0049] FIG. 3 depicts a perspective view illustrating another embodiment of an apparatus 200 to couple a user to a recreational device 102 in accordance with the present subject matter. The apparatus 200, in certain embodiments, is substantially similar to the apparatus 100 described above. Thus, in one embodiment, the apparatus 200 includes a base plate 104, a heal cup 106, an ankle retention member 108, a toe retention member 110, a cable 112, a tensioning device 116, and at least one cable anchor 302. The base plate 104, heal cup 106, ankle retention member 108, toe retention member 110, cable 112, and tensioning device 116 of apparatus 200 are substantially similar to the base plate 104, heal cup 106, ankle retention member 108, toe retention member 110, cable 112, and tensioning device 116 of apparatus 100. Thus, the base plate 104, heal cup 106, ankle retention member 108, toe retention member 110, cable 112, and tensioning device 116 of apparatus 200 operate in a manner substantially similar to the manner in which they were described above.

[0050] In certain embodiments, the tensioning device 116 may be coupled to the toe retention member 110 rather than the ankle retention member 108. In such an embodiment, the first end 128 of the cable 112 is coupled to the ankle retention member 108. In an exemplary embodiment, the first end 128 of the cable 112 may be coupled to the ankle retention member 108 by a coupling element 132.

[0051] In one embodiment, the cable anchor 302 is a substantially rigid cable retention element 304 that extends along at least a portion of the base plate 104. For example, in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 3, the cable retention element 304 extends along wall 118a. The cable retention element 304 defines a channel 306 sized to receive the cable 112. The channel 306 extends along an area adjacent a user's ankle and a user's toe area when the user's foot is positioned within the base plate 104. In certain embodiments, the channel 306 provides protection for the cable 112 when the cable 112 is positioned within the channel 306.

[0052] FIG. 4 is a front view further illustrating the apparatus 200 of FIG. 3 in accordance with the present subject matter. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4, the channel 306 is C-shaped and sized to receive the cable 112. A C-shaped channel 306 provides protection to the cable 112 when the cable 112 is positioned within the channel 306.

[0053] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4, the cable 112 is shown as being disengaged from the cable anchor 302 with the ankle retention member 108 and the toe retention member 110 positioned an open orientation. In one embodiment, to position the apparatus 200 in the open position, the tensioning device 116 is positioned in a position that allows the tensioning device 116 to lengthen the cable 112. The cable 112 is then removed from within the channel 306 and the ankle retention member 108 and the toe retention member 110 are swung away from wall 118a in the direction indicated by arrow 402. In this position, the user may either remove his or her foot, shoe, or boot from within the base plate 104 or position his or her foot, shoe, or boot into the base plate 104 depending on whether the user is engaging or disengaging the apparatus 200. While the embodiments illustrated in the attached figures depict the ankle retention member 108 and the toe retention member 110 as being coupled to the second wall 118b, one of skill in the art will recognize that in other embodiments, the ankle retention member 108 and the toe retention member 110 may be coupled to the first wall 118a.

[0054] FIG. 5 is a perspective view illustrating another embodiment of an apparatus 300 to couple a user to a recreational device 102 in accordance with the present subject matter. The apparatus 300, in certain embodiments, is substantially similar to the apparatus 200 described above. Thus, in one embodiment, the apparatus 300 includes a base plate 104, a heal cup 106, an ankle retention member 108, a toe retention member 110, a cable 112, a tensioning device 116, and at least one cable anchor 302. The base plate 104, heal cup 106, ankle retention member 108, toe retention member 110, cable 112, and tensioning device 116 of apparatus 200 are substantially similar to the base plate 104, heal cup 106, ankle retention member 108, toe retention member 110, cable 112, and tensioning device 116 of apparatus 200. Thus, the base plate 104, heal cup 106, ankle retention member 108, toe retention member 110, cable 112, and tensioning device 116 of apparatus 300 operate in a manner substantially similar to the manner in which they were described above.

[0055] Similarly, in one embodiment, the cable anchor 302 is a substantially rigid cable retention element 304 that extends along at least a portion of the base plate 104. For example, in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5, the cable retention element 304 extends along wall 118a in a manner substantially similar to the way in which the cable retention element 304 extends along wall 118a of apparatus 200 discussed above. The cable retention element 304 defines a channel 306 sized to receive the cable 112. The channel 306 extends along an area adjacent a user's ankle and a user's toe area when the user's foot is positioned within the base plate 104. In certain embodiments, the channel 306 provides protection for the cable 112 when the cable 112 is positioned within the channel 306.

[0056] In another embodiment, the apparatus 300 includes a sleeve 502 disposed about the cable 112. The cable 112 is slideable through the sleeve 502. In such an embodiment, both the sleeve 502 and the cable 112 are receivable within the cable retention anchor 302.

[0057] In certain embodiments, the sleeve 502 is a substantially rigid tubular structure that protects the cable 112 from damage from contact with the cable retention anchor 302. In other embodiments, the sleeve 502 may be made of a pliable material that conforms to the shape of the cable 112. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5, the sleeve 502 is configured to be positioned within the channel 306 of the cable retention anchor 302. In other embodiments, the sleeve 502 is engageable with cable anchors 114a and 114b such as the cable anchors 114a and 114b of apparatus 100.

[0058] FIG. 6 is a perspective view illustrating another embodiment of an apparatus 400 to couple a user to a recreational device 102 in accordance with the present subject matter. The apparatus 400, in certain embodiments, is substantially similar to apparatus 100 described above. Thus, the apparatus 400, in one embodiment, includes a base plate 104, a heal cup 106, an ankle retention member 108, a toe retention member 110, a cable 112, and at least one cable anchor 114a and 114b. The base plate 104, a heal cup 106, an ankle retention member 108, a toe retention member 110, a cable 112, and at least one cable anchor 114a and 114b of apparatus 400 operate in a manner substantially similar to the manner in which the base plate 104, a heal cup 106, an ankle retention member 108, a toe retention member 110, a cable 112, and at least one cable anchor 114a and 114b of apparatus 100 operate.

[0059] In certain embodiments, the first end 128 and the second end 130 of the cable 112 are coupled to the ankle retention member 108 and the toe retention member 110 respectively. In such an embodiment, the first end 128 and the second end 130 of the cable 112 may be coupled to the ankle retention member 108 and the toe retention member 110 with coupling elements 132.

[0060] In one embodiment, the apparatus 400 includes a tensioning device 402 coupled to the cable 112. The tensioning device is configured to reduce a length of free cable 404 to increase a pressure applied to the toe retention member 110, the ankle retention member 108, or both. In certain embodiments, the free cable 404 is the slack in the cable 112. The cable 112 is positioned around the cable anchors 114a and 114b and the portion cable extending beyond the tensioning device 402 (i.e., the side of the tensioning device 402 opposite the first end 128 and the second end 130 of the cable 112) is pulled to remove any slack in the cable 112. The tensioning device 402 is slid along the cable 112 in a direction towards the first and second ends 128 and 130 of the cable 112 to increase the pressure applied to the ankle retention member 108 and the toe retention member 110. In this position, the tensioning device 402 is locked to keep the user's foot positioned within the binding.

[0061] The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.

Claims

1. An apparatus to couple a user to a recreational device, the apparatus comprising: a base plate configured to receive a user's foot; a heel cup coupled to a heel end of the base plate, the heel cup configured to receive a heel of the user's foot; an ankle retention member, the ankle retention member configured to extend over an ankle of the user; a toe retention member, the toe retention member configured to extend over a toe area of the user's foot; a cable; at least one cable anchor coupled to at least one of the base plate and the heel cup, wherein the cable is receivable within the cable retention anchor; and a tensioning device coupled to the cable, the tensioning device configured to reduce a length of free cable to increase a pressure applied to at least one of the ankle retention member and the toe retention member.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein rotation of the tensioning device wraps the cable about a spool to reduce the length of free cable.

3. The apparatus of claim 2, further comprising a ratchet member coupled to the tensioning device, the ratchet member configured to allow the tensioning device to rotate in a first direction and to selectively prohibit rotation of the tensioning device in a second direction.

4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one cable retention anchor extends perpendicularly from at least one of the base plate and the heel cup to engage the cable at an area adjacent at least one of the user's ankle and the user's toe area when the user's foot is positioned within the base plate.

5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the at least one cable retention anchor comprises at least two cable retention anchors, wherein a first cable retention anchor extends perpendicularly from at least one of the base plate and the heel cup to engage the cable at an area adjacent the user's ankle when the user's foot is positioned within the base plate, wherein a second cable retention anchor extends perpendicularly from an area adjacent the user's toe area when the user's foot is positioned within the base plate.

6. The apparatus of claim 5, further comprising a first capping element extending axially from an end of the first cable retention anchor and a second capping element extending axially from an end of the second cable retention anchor, the first capping element configured to maintain engagement between the first cable retention anchor and the cable, the second capping element configured to maintain engagement between the second cable retention anchor and the cable.

7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one cable anchor comprises a substantially rigid cable retention element extending along at least a portion of the base plate, the cable retention element defining a channel sized to receive the cable, wherein the channel extends along an area adjacent a user's ankle and a user's toe area when the user's foot is positioned within the base plate.

8. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a pull-tab coupled to the cable, the pull-tab facilitating engagement between the cable and the at least one cable anchor.

9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the at least one cable anchor comprises at least two cable anchors, wherein the pull-tab is slideable along the cable to facilitate engagement between the cable and the at least two cable anchors.

10. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a sleeve disposed about the cable, wherein the cable is slideable through the sleeve, wherein the sleeve and the cable are receivable within the cable retention anchor.

11. An apparatus to couple a user to a recreational device, the apparatus comprising: a base plate configured to receive a user's foot; a heel cup coupled to a heel end of the base plate, the heel cup configured to receive a heel of the user's foot; an ankle retention member coupled to at least one of the base plate and the heel cup, the ankle retention member configured to extend over an ankle of the user; a toe retention member coupled to the base plate, the toe retention member configured to extend over a toe area of the user's foot; a cable extending from the ankle retention member to the toe retention member; a sleeve disposed about the cable, wherein the cable is slideable through the sleeve; at least one cable anchor coupled to at least one of the base plate and the heel cup, wherein the cable and the sleeve are receivable within the cable retention anchor; and a tensioning device coupled to the cable, the tensioning device configured to reduce a length of free cable to increase a pressure applied to at least one of the ankle retention member and the toe retention member.

12. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein rotation of the tensioning device wraps the cable about a spool to reduce the length of free cable.

13. The apparatus of claim 12, further comprising a ratchet member coupled to the tensioning device, the ratchet member configured to allow the tensioning device to rotate in a first direction and to selectively prohibit rotation of the tensioning device in a second direction.

14. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the at least one cable retention anchor extends perpendicularly from at least one of the base plate and the heel cup to engage the cable at an area adjacent at least one of the user's ankle and the user's toe area when the user's foot is positioned within the base plate.

15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the at least one cable retention anchor comprises at least two cable retention anchors, wherein a first cable retention anchor extends perpendicularly from at least one of the base plate and the heel cup to engage the cable at an area adjacent the user's ankle when the user's foot is positioned within the base plate, wherein a second cable retention anchor extends perpendicularly from an area adjacent the user's toe area when the user's foot is positioned within the base plate.

16. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one cable anchor comprises a substantially rigid cable retention element extending along at least a portion of the base plate, the cable retention element defining a channel sized to receive the cable, wherein the channel extends along an area adjacent a user's ankle and a user's toe area when the user's foot is positioned within the base plate.

17. An apparatus to couple a user to a recreational device, the apparatus comprising: a base plate configured to receive a user's foot; a heel cup coupled to a heel end of the base plate, the heel cup configured to receive a heel of the user's foot; an ankle retention member coupled to at least one of the base plate and the heel cup, the ankle retention member configured to extend over an ankle of the user; a toe retention member coupled to the base plate, the toe retention member configured to extend over a toe area of the user's foot; a cable extending from the ankle retention member to the toe retention member; a cable anchor comprising a substantially rigid cable retention element extending along at least a portion of the base plate, the cable retention element defining a channel sized to receive the cable, wherein the channel extends along an area adjacent a user's ankle and a user's toe area when the user's foot is positioned within the base plate; and a tensioning device coupled to the cable, the tensioning device configured to reduce a length of free cable to increase a pressure applied to at least one of the ankle retention member and the toe retention member.

18. The apparatus of claim 17, further comprising a sleeve disposed about the cable, wherein the cable is slideable through the sleeve, wherein the sleeve and the cable are receivable within the cable retention anchor.

19. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein rotation of the tensioning device wraps the cable about a spool to reduce the length of free cable.

20. The apparatus of claim 19, further comprising a ratchet member coupled to the tensioning device, the ratchet member configured to allow the tensioning device to rotate in a first direction and to selectively prohibit rotation of the tensioning device in a second direction.