U.S. patent application number 14/523416 was filed with the patent office on 2016-04-28 for skiing apparatus.
The applicant listed for this patent is Jeff Rapp. Invention is credited to Jeff Rapp.
Application Number | 20160114825 14/523416 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 55791364 |
Filed Date | 2016-04-28 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160114825 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Rapp; Jeff |
April 28, 2016 |
SKIING APPARATUS
Abstract
A snow skiing apparatus which may include an upper frame member,
a lower seat member connected to the upper frame member, a handle
member connected to the upper frame member, a lower frame member
connected to the upper frame member, and a ski attachment member
connected to the lower frame member and adapted to be detachably
connected to a ski.
Inventors: |
Rapp; Jeff; (Boyce,
LA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Rapp; Jeff |
Boyce |
LA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
55791364 |
Appl. No.: |
14/523416 |
Filed: |
October 24, 2014 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
280/14.1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B62B 13/005 20130101;
B62B 17/062 20130101; B62B 17/063 20130101; B62B 13/043
20130101 |
International
Class: |
B62B 13/00 20060101
B62B013/00; B62B 17/06 20060101 B62B017/06 |
Claims
1. A skiing apparatus comprising: an upper frame member; a lower
seat member connected to the upper frame member; a handle member
connected to the upper frame member in fixed relation to the lower
seat member; a lower frame member connected to the upper frame
member; a ski attachment member connected to the lower frame member
and adapted to be detachably connected to a ski; an upper shock
absorbing connector member connected to the upper frame member; and
a lower shock absorbing connector member connected to the lower
frame member.
2. (canceled)
3. The skiing apparatus according to claim 1 further comprising a
shock absorbing member extending between the lower frame member and
the upper frame member.
4. The skiing apparatus according to claim 3 wherein the shock
absorbing member comprises an upper end adapted to be connected to
the upper shock absorbing connector member, and a lower end adapted
to be connected to the lower shock absorbing member.
5. The skiing apparatus according to claim 4 wherein the upper
shock absorbing connector comprises a first portion adapted to be
connected to the upper frame member and a pair of second portions
that extend outwardly from the first portion; and wherein each of
the pair of second portions includes a plurality of spaced apart
pairs of aligned passageways formed therethrough, each of the
plurality of spaced apart pairs of aligned passageways adapted to
receive a portion of the upper end of the shock absorbing
member.
6. The skiing apparatus according to claim 4 wherein the lower
shock absorbing connector comprises a first portion adapted to be
connected to the lower frame member and a pair of second portions
that extend upwardly from the first portion; and wherein each of
the pair of second portions includes a plurality of spaced apart
pairs of aligned passageways formed therethrough, each of the
plurality of spaced apart pairs of aligned passageways adapted to
receive a portion of the lower end of the shock absorbing
member.
7. The skiing apparatus according to claim 4 wherein the upper end
of the shock absorbing member is pivotally connected to the upper
shock absorbing connector; and wherein the lower end of the shock
absorbing member is pivotally connected to the lower shock
absorbing connector.
8. The skiing apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the upper
frame member is pivotally connected to the lower frame member.
9. The skiing apparatus according to claim 1 wherein a seat is
fixedly connected to the lower seat member.
10. The skiing apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the ski
attachment member is fixedly connected to the lower frame
member.
11. The skiing apparatus according to claim 1 further comprising a
brace member extending between a portion of the upper shock
absorbing connector member and the lower seat member.
12. The skiing apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the ski
attachment member is adapted to be detachably connected to a ski
binding of the ski.
13. (canceled)
14. The skiing apparatus according to claim 8 wherein the upper
frame and lower frame are pivotally connected so as to allow
between 2 and 45 degrees of movement therebetween.
15. The skiing apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the upper
frame member and the lower seat member are integrally formed as a
monolithic unit.
16. The skiing apparatus according to claim 1 further comprising a
foot ski assembly, the foot ski assembly comprising: a foot ski; a
plurality of ball joints; and a gas spring strut, an end of the gas
spring strut being connected to the foot ski and the other end of
the gas spring strut being connected by the plurality of ball
joints to the lower frame member between the ski attachment member
and the upper member.
17. A skiing apparatus comprising: an upper frame member; a lower
seat member connected permanently fixed to the upper frame member
so that the upper frame member and the lower seat member are
integrally formed as a monolithic unit; a handle member connected
to the upper frame member; a lower frame member connected to the
upper frame member; a ski attachment member connected to the lower
frame member; a ski connected to the ski attachment member; an
upper shock absorbing connector member connected to the upper frame
member; and a lower shock absorbing connector member connected to
the lower frame member.
18. The skiing apparatus according to claim 17 wherein the ski is
configured so as to be detachable from the ski attachment
member.
19. The skiing apparatus according to claim 17 further comprising a
shock absorbing member configured so as to allow between 2 and 45
degrees of relative movement between the upper frame and the lower
frame.
20. The skiing apparatus according to claim 19 wherein the shock
absorbing member comprises a dampener.
21. A skiing apparatus comprising: an upper frame member; a lower
seat member connected to the upper frame member; a handle member
connected to the upper frame member; a handlebar fixed to the
handle member; a lower frame member pivotally connected to the
upper frame member; a ski attachment member adjustably connected to
the lower frame member so as to allow relative adjustment between
the ski attachment member and the lower frame member; a ski
connected to the ski attachment member; an upper shock absorbing
connector member connected to the upper frame member; a lower shock
absorbing connector member connected to the lower frame member; a
shock absorbing member extending between the lower frame member and
the upper frame member; and a brace extending between a portion of
the handle member and the lower seat member such that the handle
member is fixed relative to the lower set member.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to a snow skiing apparatus. In
particular, the present invention relates to a snow skiing
apparatus that a user may ride on in the manner of a skiing
bicycle.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Traditionally, snow skiing apparatuses have been complicated
and thus expensive to build and maintain. Additionally, the small
range of movement between the seat and the ski may render the
skiing apparatus unsuitable for certain uses and terrains.
[0003] Traditional ski bikes normally have a seat of some kind on
which the user sits and include two skis, a front ski and a back
ski. The front ski is normally rotatable through the use of a
rotatable handle bar attached to the frame so as to aid in turning
the ski bike. If the seat is movable in relationship to one or more
of the skis, the movement range during operation is normally quite
limited and cannot absorb large impacts and changes in terrain.
[0004] Some other ski bikes may have a single ski to which the ski
bike frame is attached at multiple points and/or only allow very
limited movement of the ski in relationship to the seat. This
severely limits the terrain on which the ski bikes may comfortably
operate and the ability of the ski bike to absorb ground impacts.
These designs also tend to be quite complex and expensive to
manufacture.
[0005] This background information is provided to reveal
information believed by the applicant to be of possible relevance
to the present invention. No admission is necessarily intended, nor
should be construed, that any of the preceding information
constitutes prior art against the present invention.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] With the above in mind, embodiments of the present invention
are related to a skiing apparatus which may provide a greater
ability of users to ski and also provide enhanced suspension
dampening features. Embodiments of the present invention may also
advantageously allow for a modular design so that skis may be
easily changed. The skiing apparatus according to embodiments of
the present invention may also advantageously allow for efficient
transportation for users, as well as ease of manufacture of the
skiing apparatus.
[0007] These and other objects, features and advantages according
to embodiments of the present invention may be provided by a skiing
apparatus including an upper frame member, a lower seat member
connected to the upper frame member, a handle member connected to
the upper frame member, a lower frame member connected to the upper
frame member, and a ski attachment member connected to the lower
frame member and adapted to be detachably connected to a ski.
[0008] In some embodiments the skiing apparatus may include an
upper shock absorbing connector member connected to the upper frame
member and a lower shock absorbing connector member connected to
the lower frame member. In addition, the skiing apparatus may
include a shock absorbing member extending between the lower frame
member and the upper frame member. The shock absorbing member may
also include an upper end adapted to be connected to the upper
shock absorbing connector member, and a lower end adapted to be
connected to the lower shock absorbing member. Further, the upper
shock absorbing connector may include a first portion adapted to be
connected to the upper frame member and a pair of second portions
that extend outwardly from the first portion. Each of the pair of
second portions may include a plurality of spaced apart pairs of
aligned passageways formed therethrough, such that each of the
plurality of spaced apart pairs of aligned passageways may be
adapted to receive a portion of the upper end of the shock
absorbing member.
[0009] In some embodiments, the lower shock absorbing connector may
include a first portion adapted to be connected to the lower frame
member and a pair of second portions that extend upwardly from the
first portion. Each of the pair of second portions may include a
plurality of spaced apart pairs of aligned passageways formed
therethrough. Each of the plurality of spaced apart pairs of
aligned passageways may be adapted to receive a portion of the
lower end of the shock absorbing member. In addition, the upper end
of the shock absorbing member may be pivotally connected to the
upper shock absorbing connector. Further, the lower end of the
shock absorbing member may be pivotally connected to the lower
shock absorbing connector.
[0010] In some embodiments, the upper frame member may be pivotally
connected to the lower frame member, and the seat may be fixedly
connected to the lower seat member. Further, the ski attachment
member may be fixedly connected to the lower frame member.
[0011] The skiing apparatus may also include a brace member
extending between a portion of the upper shock absorbing connector
and the lower seat member. In some exemplary embodiments, the ski
attachment member may be adapted to be detachably connected to a
ski binding of the ski. Additionally, the handle member may be
fixed in relation to the lower seat member. Further, in some
embodiments, the upper frame and lower frame may be pivotally
connected so as to allow between about 2 and 40 degrees of movement
therebetween. In some embodiments of the skiing apparatus according
to the present invention, the upper frame member and the lower seat
member may be integrally formed as a monolithic unit.
[0012] In addition, some embodiments may include a foot ski
assembly. The foot ski assembly may include a foot ski, and a gas
spring strut, an end of the gas spring strut being connected to the
foot ski and the other end of the gas spring strut being connected
by multiple ball joints to the lower frame member between the ski
attachment member and the upper member.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0013] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a skiing apparatus according
to an embodiment of the present invention connected to a ski.
[0014] FIG. 2 is another perspective view of the skiing apparatus
illustrated in FIG. 1.
[0015] FIG. 3 is a partial perspective view of the skiing apparatus
illustrated in FIG. 1 and showing an upper shock absorbing
connector member.
[0016] FIG. 4 is a partial top view of the skiing apparatus
illustrated in FIG. 1.
[0017] FIG. 5 is a partial perspective view of the skiing apparatus
illustrated in FIG. 1.
[0018] FIG. 6 is a partial perspective view of a lower portion of
the skiing apparatus illustrated in FIG. 1.
[0019] FIG. 7 is a partial top plan view of the skiing apparatus
illustrated in FIG. 1 and showing an exemplary position of a seat
and ski attachment area.
[0020] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a
skiing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present
invention and having attached foot skis.
[0021] FIG. 9 is a perspective of an an attached foot ski
illustrated in FIG. 8.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0022] The present invention will now be described more fully
hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which
preferred embodiments of the invention are shown. This invention
may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be
construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather,
these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be
thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the
invention to those skilled in the art. Those of ordinary skill in
the art realize that the following descriptions of the embodiments
of the present invention are illustrative and are not intended to
be limiting in any way. Other embodiments of the present invention
will readily suggest themselves to such skilled persons having the
benefit of this disclosure. Like numbers refer to like elements
throughout. Prime notation is used to identify similar elements in
different embodiments.
[0023] Although the following detailed description contains many
specifics for the purposes of illustration, anyone of ordinary
skill in the art will appreciate that many variations and
alterations to the following details are within the scope of the
invention. Accordingly, the following embodiments of the invention
are set forth without any loss of generality to, and without
imposing limitations upon, the claimed invention.
[0024] In this detailed description of the present invention, a
person skilled in the art should note that directional terms, such
as "above," "below," "upper," "lower," and other like terms are
used for the convenience of the reader in reference to the
drawings. Also, a person skilled in the art should notice this
description may contain other terminology to convey position,
orientation, and direction without departing from the principles of
the present invention.
[0025] Furthermore, in this detailed description, a person skilled
in the art should note that quantitative qualifying terms such as
"generally," "substantially," "mostly," and other terms are used,
in general, to mean that the referred to object, characteristic, or
quality constitutes a majority of the subject of the reference. The
meaning of any of these terms is dependent upon the context within
which it is used, and the meaning may be expressly modified.
[0026] As illustrated in FIGS. 1-9, exemplary embodiments of the
invention are directed to a snow skiing apparatus 100. As can be
seen, for example, in FIGS. 1 and 2, the skiing apparatus 100 may
include an upper frame member 1, a lower seat member 2 connected to
the upper frame member 1, a handle member 3 connected to the upper
frame member 1, and a lower frame member 4 connected to the upper
frame member 1.
[0027] The lower seat member 2 may include a seat 5. The type of
seat is not particularly limited and the seat 5 may be adjustable
forward, backward, up and down, or angled relative to the lower
seat member 2. More specifically, and although not illustrated in
the appended figures, those skilled in the art will appreciate that
the seat 5 may be slidably connected to the lower seat member 2 so
that the seat 5 may be laterally moveable with respect to the lower
seat member 2 to thereby adjust the positioning of the seat 5.
Further, the seat 5 may be mounted to the lower seat member 2 on a
mechanism that allows for the seat to be longitudinally moved with
respect to the lower seat member 2. Accordingly, it is to be
understood by those skilled in the art that the seat 5 may be both
longitudinally and laterally moved with respect to the lower seat
member 2. Additionally, the seat 5 may be mounted to the lower seat
member 2 on a mechanism that allows for the seat 5 to be positioned
at an angle relative to the lower seat member 2, such that the seat
5 is non-parallel with the lower seat member 2. The seat 5 may also
be attached to the lower seat member 2 through one or more
intermediate attachment members and may include an elastic and/or
dampening member. For instance, the seat 5 may include a dampening
or elastic material that will give in one or more directions so as
to absorb vibration and force which are transferred through the
skiing apparatus 100 and provide a more comfortable ride for the
user. The design of the intermediate attachment members is not
particularly limited. For instance, the intermediate attachment
members may be similar to the shock absorbing mounts used on some
bicycle seats, may include a solid piece of rubber or other
material between mounting brackets, etc.
[0028] The lower frame member 4 can include a ski attachment member
6 configured to attach to a ski 7. In an exemplary embodiment, the
ski attachment member 6 may be adapted to be attached to the ski
boot bindings 80 of the ski 7. The angle .alpha. of pivot range
between the ski 7 and the lower frame member 4 may be adjustable.
For example, the angle .alpha. may have a range of 10 to 20
degrees.
[0029] Additionally, the lower frame member 4 may be configured to
have any shape. The configuration of the lower frame member 4 may
facilitate the attachment thereto of the ski attachment member 6,
the upper frame member 1, and any other element of the skiing
apparatus 100 as may be desirously attached. In the present
embodiment, the lower frame member has a generally rectangular,
more specifically square, tubular shape. Although a generally
rectangular/tubular shape is illustrated in the appended figures,
those skilled in the art will appreciate that many other shapes may
be provided while carrying out the goals, features and objectives
according to embodiments of the present invention. More
specifically, it is contemplated that the lower frame member may be
provided by ovular shape to the members, or any other shape that
may provide similar strength properties as may be understood by
those skilled in the art after having had the benefit of reading
this disclosure. The configuration of the lower frame member 4 may
minimize the weight thereof while providing sufficient structural
integrity to support the weight of the user as well as forces
exerted upon the lower frame member 4 while in use. The lower frame
member 4 may be formed of any appropriate material, including, but
not limited to, metals, metal alloys, polymers, composite
materials, carbon-based materials, such as carbon fiber, and the
like.
[0030] The method of adjusting the pivot range is not particularly
limited. For instance, the ski attachment member 6 may have a
plurality of through holes 16 which match with through holes 41 and
fasteners 42 in the lower frame member 4, through a toothed cam
locking mechanism, or any other desired method. It is also
contemplated that the pivot range can be adjusted through
manipulation of the ski attachment member 6 alone. For instance,
the ski attachment member 6 may have a hinged portion with a
plurality of matching through holes which may be secured at various
positions with a locking member, and may utilize a tooth cam
mechanism, or any other desired method of adjustment.
[0031] In addition, the relative position of the ski 7 and/or the
ski attachment member 6 may be adjusted relative to the lower frame
member 4 (e.g., in the front and back direction). This may be done
through a plurality of mounting holes 16, 41 and fasteners 41, a
rail system, a positioning screw system, or any other desired
method. The relative movement may allow the ski attachment member 6
to be adjustable relative to the lower frame member 4, and thus
relative to seat 5, so as to allow the relative front/back location
of the ski 7 to be configured with relation to the seat 5 at a
given angle theta between the upper frame member 1 and the lower
frame member 4.
[0032] The skiing apparatus 100 may also include a shock absorbing
member 8 which reacts to relative movement between the upper frame
member 1 and the lower frame member 4. The shock absorbing member 8
may be a shock absorber, a spring/elastic member, etc., connected
to both the upper frame member 1 and the lower frame member 4. The
shock absorbing member 8 may be a piston shock absorber as
illustrated in FIG. 1, or may be a cylindrical hub (or other shape)
located at the pivot point P where the upper frame member 1
connects to the lower frame member 4.
[0033] In some embodiments, the shock absorbing member 8 may be the
member which connects the upper frame member 1 to the lower frame
member 4 at the point of flexure. For instance, the shock absorbing
member 8 may be an elastic matrix connected to the lower portion of
the upper frame member 1 and the side of the lower frame member 4
opposite the ski attachment member 6 side so that the relative
movement between the upper frame member 1 and the lower frame
member 4 is conducted through the flexing of the elastic
member.
[0034] The method of attaching the shock absorbing member 8 to the
upper and lower frame members 1 and 4 is not particularly limited.
For instance, the shock absorbing member 8 may be directly attached
to the upper frame member 1, for example pivotally connected
between columns 13, and the lower frame member 4, and/or may be
attached through one or more intermediate members such as the upper
shock absorbing connector member 11 and/or the lower shock
absorbing member connector 12. As will be described below, the
method of connecting the shock absorbing member to the upper frame
and lower frame is not particularly limited. For instance, the
shock absorbing member may be connected with connectors such as
pins, bolts, etc. 19 through a pivotable bushing/ball or other
connection point 23 on the shock absorber 8. The connectors may
connect to passages or holes 18 in upper shock absorbing connector
member 11 or may be connected directly using through holes in the
columns 13. Upper shock absorbing connector members 11 may be
connected to columns 13 though a use of passageways and pins/bolts
and may allow relative adjustment along the length of columns 13,
or may be directly welded to the columns 13.
[0035] As illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4, the upper shock absorbing
connector member 11 may include an upper pair of walls 17 attached
to the upper frame member 1. The upper pair of walls 17 may be
attached to the outer sides of the upper frame member 1. It is
contemplated that, in some embodiments, the upper pair of walls 17
may be attached to the back (e.g., the side which faces the seat)
of the upper frame member 1, and/or to each other, through a center
wall (not shown). In some embodiments, the upper pair of walls 17
may be attached to the inside walls of columns 13 or to both the
inside and outside walls of columns 13 though the use of a U-shaped
mounting portion (not shown).
[0036] The upper shock absorbing connector member 11 may have
multiple possible connection points where the shock absorbing
member 8 can connect. For instance, the upper shock absorbing
connector member 11 may have a plurality of holes 18 through which
a shaft member 19 may connect a top connector 23 of the shock
absorbing member 8 to the upper shock absorbing connector member
11. Using the different holes 18 which are placed, for instance,
along a length of the walls 15, the placement of the shock
absorbing member 8 may be adjusted.
[0037] As perhaps best illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 6, the lower
shock absorbing connector member 12 may include a pair of walls 20
attached to the lower frame member 4. The pair of walls 20 may be
attached to the outer sides of the lower frame member 4. In some
embodiments, the pair of walls 20 may be attached to (or abut
through a center connecting portion, or base 29) the top (e.g., the
side which faces the seat) of the lower frame member 4.
[0038] The lower shock absorbing connector member 12 will now be
discussed in greater detail with additional reference to FIGS. 5
and 6. More particularly, the lower shock absorbing connector
member 12 may be characterized by a length of channel level. The
lower shock absorbing connector member 12 may include a base member
29 that is adapted to engage the lower frame member 4. A pair of
opposing sidewalls 20 are connected to the base member 29 and have
portions that extend upwardly and downwardly therefrom. The
sidewalls including plurality of pin receiving passageways 21
formed therethrough. More specifically, the pin receiving
passageway 21 formed on each of the opposing sidewalls 20 are
preferably aligned with one another so that bolt 27 may be passed
therethrough to lock the shock absorbing member 8 into a position
with respect to the lower shock absorbing connector member 12.
[0039] As perhaps also best illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 6, the shock
absorbing connector member 12 also includes a pair of lower
connector member receiving passageways that are adapted to receive
connectors to be passed therethrough and through the lower frame
member 4. More specifically, it is contemplated that a plurality of
passageways are positioned along the wall portions of the lower
frame member 4 that can be aligned with the lower connector member
receiving passageways so that a connector, i.e., a pin, a nut/bolt
combination, or some other type of connector as understood by those
skilled in the art, may be passed through the lower connector
member receiving passageways and the passageways formed in the
lower frame member 4 thereby attach the shock absorbing connector
member 12 to the lower frame member 4.
[0040] As indicated above, the lower shock absorbing connector
member 12 may have multiple possible connection points where the
shock absorbing member 8 may connect thereto. For instance, the
lower shock absorbing connector member 12 may include a plurality
of passageways 21 through which a bolt 27 (or other connector) may
connect a bottom connector 22 (illustrated in FIG. 6) of the shock
absorbing member 8 to the lower shock absorbing connector member
12. Using the different passageways 21 located, for instance, along
a length of the pair of sidewalls 20, the placement of the shock
absorbing member 8 may be adjusted. More specifically, adjusting
the position of the shock absorbing member 8 between the various
passageways 21 advantageously allows for the positioning angle and
height of the seat member to be changed. Further, moving the
position of the shock absorbing member 8 along the shock absorbing
member connector 12 can provide for a different type of ride for
the user, i.e., a more rigid ride, or a smoother ride. This
advantageously allows for a user to make an adjustment to the
positioning of the shock absorbing member 8 to allow for a
customized ride and customizable comfort positioning with respect
to the distance between the seat 5 and the ground.
[0041] While the mechanism for adjusting the location of the shock
absorber member 8 on the upper and lower frames 1 and 4 is
described as utilizing a plurality of passageways 18 and 21,
respectively, the upper and lower shock absorbing connector members
11, 12 may use a slot with grooves, a rail, a positioning screw, or
any other appropriate mechanism. In addition, the upper and lower
shock absorber connector members 11, 12 may also be moveable
relative to the upper frame 1 and lower frame 4, respectively,
through the use of a plurality of fixing holes, a rail, positioning
screw, or any other suitable method.
[0042] As noted above, the upper frame member 1 and the lower frame
member 4 are movable relative to one another. In some embodiments,
the upper frame member 1 may be pivotally connected to the lower
frame member 4 (e.g., at pivot point P illustrated in FIG. 6). The
angle of allowable movement between the upper frame member 1 and
the lower frame member 4, when the skiing apparatus is assembled,
may have an angle .theta. in a range from 35 to 80 degrees. The
angle of allowable movement between the lower frame member 4 and a
top side of the lower seat member 2, when the skiing apparatus is
assembled, may have an angle 13 in a range from 0 to 45 degrees.
The relative movement between the seat 5 and the ski attachment
member 6 may be a distance D1 having a range of 2 to 36 inches.
This relative movement between the seat 5 and the ski attachment
member 6 may allow the distance D2 between the ski 7 at the
attachment member and the seat 5 to be in a range of 2 to 38
inches.
[0043] A large range of motion between the seat 5 and ski 7 may
allow the user to traverse uneven terrain, such as moguls, by
allowing sufficient dampening while still maintaining control. In
addition, the large range of motion may also allow more variation
in the compression and rebound dampening characteristics of the
shock absorbing member 8. This may allow a smoother and more
responsive ride by enabling varying stiffness and dampening
characteristics along the range of motion.
[0044] In some embodiments, the shock absorbing member 8 may
include a multistage adjustable resistance shock absorber. The
shock absorbing member 8 may be adjusted at one or more adjustment
members 60. For instance, the shock absorbing member 8 may include
a multiple adjustment shock member, such as an air bypass shock
absorber, which is capable of providing different dampening and
recovery/resistance characteristics at different points on the
shock absorber's stroke. By so doing, this may enable custom tuning
of the skiing apparatus's ride. Indeed, the resistance and
dampening provided by the shock absorbing member 8 may be adjusted
without the need to change parts or modify the skiing apparatus so
that adjustments may be made while the skiing apparatus is in use
or between runs.
[0045] For example, compression dampening may be adjusted to
decrease as the shock absorbing member 8 is extended so as to
compress freely when fully extended, have moderate characteristics
in mid-stroke for a comfortable or responsive ride, and increase
greatly when the shock absorbing member 8 is close to being fully
compressed, so as to provide enough resistance to not bottom out
and provide appropriate resistance and ride characteristics during
moguls, jumps, etc. Additionally, rebound dampening may be adjusted
to maximally increase as the shock absorbing member 8 fully
extends, thus limiting the amount of return force experienced by
the rider.
[0046] The number of adjustment ranges, and the resistance and
damping thereof, is not particularly limited and may be configured
based the individual user, the conditions and environment, the
desired use of the skiing apparatus, the desired ride
characteristics, etc. The relative dampening/resistance provided by
the shock absorbing member 8 may vary continuously (e.g., linearly,
non-linearly, exponentially, etc.) over the entire range of motion,
or a portion thereof, so that the dampening and return force can be
smoothly changed as the relative position/angle between the upper
frame 1 and the lower frame 4 changes. In some embodiments, the
dampening and/or resistance between the upper frame 1 and the lower
frame 4 may be constant over the full range of motion, or a portion
thereof.
[0047] The lower seat member 2 is connectable to the upper frame
member 1. More specifically, the lower seat member 2 may include a
pair of opposing beam members 14 that, when connected to the upper
frame member 1, extend outwardly therefrom. As will be discussed in
greater detail below, the upper frame member 1 may include a pair
of opposing column members 13. As perhaps best illustrated in FIG.
1, the pair of opposing beam members 14 may have an L-shaped end
portion that is adapted to immediately engage a lower portion of
each of the opposing column members 13. More specifically,
passageways may be formed through end portions of each of the
opposing beam members 14. Passageways may also be formed through
lower portions of each of the opposing column members 13. The
passageways formed through the end portions of each of the opposing
beam members 14 at each of the opposing column members 13 may be
aligned so that a connection may be made between the column members
13 and the beam members 14. The connection between the beam members
14 and the column numbers 13 may be made using fasteners/connectors
such as, for example, a nut/bolt or a pin connector, or any other
type of connector that may be understood by the skilled artisan.
While the above exemplary embodiments describe the use of
connecting members such as bolts, the opposing column members 13
may be connected to the beam members 14 through any form of welding
or other appropriate attachment method as desired.
[0048] Although the lower seat member 2 is illustrated as having a
pair of opposing beam members 14, those skilled in the art will
appreciate that the beam members 14 may be provided by a monolithic
unit, i.e., the lower seat member 2 may be a one piece unit that
provides for a slot 10 formed between the beam members 14. The slot
10 is preferably sized to allow for the shock absorbing member 8 to
freely move between the beam members 14.
[0049] The connection of the lower seat member 2 to the upper frame
member 1 at a lower end of the upper frame member 1 may
advantageously reduce force that may be exerted at the connection
between the upper frame member 1 and the lower frame member 4
resulting from force applied to the lower seat member 2.
[0050] An exemplary embodiment of the skiing apparatus 100, as
illustrated in FIG. 1, may include one or more braces 9 connecting
the upper frame member 1 and the lower seat member 2. Each of the
braces 9 may be configured so as to restrict relative motion
between the upper frame member 1 and the lower seat member 2, and
provide increased structural support to the skiing apparatus 100.
The brace 9 may include a pair of braces 9 on either side of the
shock absorbing member 8. The braces 9 may illustratively be
provided by an elongate L-shaped member that has a plurality of
passageways formed through wall portions thereof. The passageways
formed through the wall portions of each of the braces 9 may
advantageously be aligned with passageways are formed through a
sidewall of an upper shock absorbing connector member 11, which
will be described in greater detail below. Accordingly, the angle
between the upper frame member 1 and the lower seat member 2 may
also be adjusted by aligning the passageways formed through each of
the braces 9 with the passageways formed through the upper shock
absorbing connector member 11. Further, those skilled in the art
will appreciate that each of the braces 9 may be connected to the
lower seat member 2 on a first end and the upper shock absorbing
connector member 11 on a second (and opposing) end using a variety
of connectors including, but not limited to, a nut/bolt connector,
a pin connector, or any other type of connector that may be
understood by those skilled in the art after having had the benefit
of reading this disclosure. The braces 9 may also be connected to
the shock absorbing connector member through welding or any other
appropriate method.
[0051] As discussed above, the braces 9 may each be shaped as two
straight (and elongate) pieces as illustrated in FIG. 1. However,
in some embodiments, the braces 9 may each be provided by curved
members, for example concave or convex toward the seat 5, which may
provide a better ergonomic fit for the user and may also serve to
dissipate or redirect a force that may be associated with the user
colliding or contacting the braces 9 during routine skiing activity
or, as is often the case when skiing, during a fall. Additionally,
the braces 9 may be positioned so as to provide separation between
the user and the shock absorbing member 8 so as to prevent pinching
of the user's leg, or any other part of the user that may be
adjacent to the shock absorbing member. Although the embodiment of
the skiing apparatus 100 illustrated in FIG. 1 depicts the braces 9
being connected to the upper shock absorbing connector members 11,
those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present invention
contemplates that each of the braces 9 may be directly connected to
the upper frame member 1 and still accomplishing the goals,
features, and advantages according to the present invention.
[0052] The skiing apparatus 100 according to embodiments of the
present invention may also include a pair of upper shock absorbing
connector members 11. Each of the upper shock absorbing connector
members 11 may be connected to an upper portion of the opposing
column members 13 of the upper frame member 1. More specifically,
and as perhaps best illustrated in FIG. 1, each of the upper shock
absorbing connector members 11 may be provided by a polygonal plate
that is connected to the upper frame member 1 using a connector
such as, for example, a nut/bolt, or a pin connector, or any other
type of connector as may be understood by those skilled in the art
after having had the benefit of reading this disclosure. The upper
shock absorbing connector member 11 may also include a plurality of
passageways formed therethrough. The plurality of passageways on
each of the shock absorbing connector members 11 may be aligned
with one another so that the connector may be passed through a
passageway on each of the braces and through the passageways formed
through the upper shock absorbing members to connect each of the
braces 9 to the upper shock absorbing members. The plurality of
passageways formed through each of the upper shock absorbing
connector members 11 advantageously allows for the positioning
between the lower seat member 2 and the upper frame member 1 to be
changeable. This, in connection with the plurality of passageways
formed through the lower shock absorbing member 12, may be used to
further refine a desired angle of alignment between the lower seat
member 2, the upper frame member 1 and the lower frame member
4.
[0053] In some embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 1, the handle
member 3 may be attached to the upper frame member 1. The handle
member 3 may be fixed in relation to the upper frame member 1 so as
to allow no relative movement therebetween. In some embodiments,
the handle member 3 may be moveable in one or more directions
relative to the upper frame member 1. For instance, the handle
member 3 may be elastically moveable relative to the upper frame
member 1 so as to absorb impact forces in one or more directions.
The handle member 3 may also include one or more connectors to
allow tilt, vertical, and horizontal adjustment so as to allow the
handle member 3 to be adjusted as desired by the user. The handle
member 3 may be attached to upper frame member 1 on the inside
walls of columns 13.
[0054] The method of mounting the handle member 3, and the
adjustment thereof, is not particularly limited. The mounting
member 28 connecting the handle member 3 to the upper frame member
may allow adjustment vertically and/or tilt toward and away from
the user. The handle member may be a single member or may include a
shaft 50, a connector 51, an extender 52 a clamp connector 53 and a
handle bar 54, as illustrated in FIG. 1. This configuration can
allow multiple locations at which to adjust vertical height (e.g.,
at connector 51 and mounting member 28), tilt (e.g., at clamp
connector 52 and mounting member 28), and left and right handle
centering (e.g., at clamp connector 52).
[0055] As illustrated in FIG. 6, the ski attachment member 6 may be
connected to lower frame member 4. The connection type between
lower frame member 4 and the ski attachment member 6 is not
particularly limited. For instance, the ski attachment member 6 may
have a plurality of aligned passageways 16 which may be connected
to corresponding passageways formed in the lower frame member 4.
The connector that may be used to connect the ski attachment member
6 to the lower frame member 4 may, for example, be a pin connector,
a nut/bolt connector, or any other type of connector as understood
by those skilled in the art after having had the benefit of this
disclosure. The plurality of holes 16 may allow a change in
relative angle .alpha. between the ski 7 and the lower frame member
4 and/or allow the ski attachment member 6 to be moved up and down
the length of the lower frame member 4. It is also possible to
connect the ski attachment member 6 and the lower frame member 4
through one or more intermediate members, a rail system, a
positioning screw system, or any other acceptable method of
connection. This may allow a variation in the position Y of the
seat 5 over the ski attachment member 6 and ski binding 80, as
shown in FIG. 7.
[0056] The ski attachment member 6 may be shaped so as to allow it
to connect and be releasably attached to a conventional ski binding
80. This may allow the skiing apparatus 100 to permit the ski 7 to
be easily removed or changed out. This can be useful for
transportation, changing ski type, damage to a ski, etc.
[0057] However, while the ski attachment member 6 has been
illustrated as an adjustable member which may fit into an existing
ski binding 80, the shape of the ski attachment member 6 and ski
connection method is not particularly limited. For instance, the
ski attachment member 6 may be shaped to match the shape of the ski
binding, a ski boot, etc., or may have a shape or fitting designed
to attach to a custom fitting on a ski 7. The use of a custom
fitting may allow the ski attachment member 6 to be more securely
fixed to a ski 7, allow more degrees of movement/adjustment, etc.
Indeed, the ski 7 may be fixed to ski attachment member 6 so as to
not be removable without the use of tools. In addition, in some
embodiments, the ski attachment member 6 may also include a
dampening material or allow a range of motion between the ski
attachment member 6 and ski 7.
[0058] As illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9, in some embodiments, a ski
apparatus 100' may include attached foot ski assemblies 30' (e.g.,
one or two assemblies). Referring now to FIGS. 8 and 9, the foot
ski assemblies 30' will be discussed. All other elements are
similar to those of FIGS. 1-7. Thus, like elements will be labeled
with a prime symbol (e.g., 2') and will not be discussed.
[0059] The built in foot ski assemblies 30' may provide additional
stability. This may be especially useful for riders with physical
limitations or beginners. The foot ski assemblies 30' may connect
to the lower frame member 4' through a first connector 31' (e.g., a
ball joint(s), pivoting connectors, etc.). A strut 32' extends from
the first connector 31' to a second connector 40' and 33' (e.g.,
ball joints, elastic material, rigid connector, limited range of
movement connector, etc.) attached to the foot ski 35'. The foot
ski assembly 30' may include a variable length member 36' (such as
a gas spring) so as to allow the foot ski 30' to readily
follow/compensate for the terrain. The first and second connectors
31' and 33' may also allow the foot ski 35' to follow the
terrain.
[0060] The design of the foot ski strut 32' is not particularly
limited. For instance, one end of strut 32' may pivotally attach to
lower frame member 4' through connector 31' at a forward position
and the other end of strut 32' may connect to the foot ski 35'. The
strut 32' may include a spring member 36' (e.g., a gas spring). One
or both of the strut 32' and the spring member 36' may be attached
to the lower frame 4' through an intermediate outrigger, such as
outrigger 37'. Thus, the foot ski 35' may be able to follow the
terrain and allow better stability for the rider.
[0061] Some of the illustrative aspects of the present invention
may be advantageous in solving the problems herein described and
other problems not discussed which are discoverable by a skilled
artisan.
[0062] While the above description contains much specificity, these
should not be construed as limitations on the scope of any
embodiment, but as exemplifications of the presented embodiments
thereof. Many other ramifications and variations are possible
within the teachings of the various embodiments. While the
invention has been described with reference to exemplary
embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that
various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for
elements thereof without departing from the scope of the invention.
In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular
situation or material to the teachings of the invention without
departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is
intended that the invention not be limited to the particular
embodiment disclosed as the best or only mode contemplated for
carrying out this invention, but that the invention will include
all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.
Also, in the drawings and the description, there have been
disclosed exemplary embodiments of the invention and, although
specific terms may have been employed, they are unless otherwise
stated used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for
purposes of limitation, the scope of the invention therefore not
being so limited. Moreover, the use of the terms first, second,
etc. do not denote any order or importance, but rather the terms
first, second, etc. are used to distinguish one element from
another. Furthermore, the use of the terms a, an, etc. do not
denote a limitation of quantity, but rather denote the presence of
at least one of the referenced item.
[0063] Thus the scope of the invention should be determined by the
appended claims and their legal equivalents, and not by the
examples given.
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