GB2469504A

GB2469504A - Sports board kit including interchangeable sections

Info

Publication number: GB2469504A
Application number: GB0906568A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Charles Thomas Harding
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2009-04-16
Filing date: 2009-04-16
Publication date: 2010-10-20
Anticipated expiration: 2029-04-16
Also published as: GB2469504B; GB0906568D0

Abstract

A kit capable of forming a series of sport board assemblies is disclosed. Each sport board assembly comprises a middle section 402 and a top section 430,440 and a bottom section 450,460, each of which sections has an upper side and a lower side. At least one of the top section and the bottom section is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section. If the top section is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section then the kit comprises at least two different top sections each of which is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section. In addition or in the alternative, if the bottom section is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section then the kit comprises at least two different bottom sections each of which is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section.

Description

KIT

Field of invention

The present invention relates to a kit.

In particular, the present invention relates to a kit from which it is possible to prepare a series of items for use in sports. The present invention also relates to an item or a series of items prepared using the kit.

Background

Board sports are becoming increasingly popular. Examples of board sports include the use of snow boards, skis, sand boards, paddle boards, windsurfer boards, kite surfer boards, wake boards, body boards, skim boards, and surf boards. These boards and other examples of boards are referred to as sport boards.

The performance of a sports board may be dictated by its length, widths, thicknesses, profile of the outer surface of the front side, profile of the outer surface of the reverse side, edges, materials etc. In addition, it is to be noted that not one sport board will be applicable to all conditions for that sport.

Hence, the user is confronted with many choices -and one particular sport board may not suit all conditions.

Users of sport boards are sometimes faced with problems. For example, the predicted conditions (e.g. of the snow or the surf or the wind) are not always 100% accurate -meaning that the user may be faced with an inappropriate sport board for the condition, or that he/she would have taken a more appropriate sport board if the weather conditions had been predicted to a 100% accuracy.

As another example of a problem, conditions often change during the day (such as the heat of the sun may affect snow conditions, tides change surf conditions etc.).

Thus, if the user has just one board with him/her, then he/she may not have a sport board that could suit all conditions for that day.

As another example of a problem, users are often faced with minimal packaging space (in particular on some airlines or with some vehicles) -meaning that they may only be able to take one sports board with them. This may be problematic if it is not possible to hire additional sports boards at the destination. It may also be problematic if the user would like to combine sporting activities -such as windsurfing and surfing -and he/she can only take with him/her one board for one activity.

Broad aspect of the present invention The present invention seeks to provide a solution to at least the aforementioned problems.

The present invention provides a kit capable of forming a series of sport board assemblies.

Each sport board assembly comprises a middle section and a top section and a bottom section, each of which sections has an upper side and a lower side.

At least one of the top section and the bottom section is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section.

The kit comprises at least said middle section and said top section and said bottom section.

If the top section is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section then the kit comprises at least two different top sections each of which is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section.

In addition or in the alternative, if the bottom section is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle Section then the kit comprises at least two different bottom sections each of which is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section.

Sport boards of the present invention The sport board of the present invention may be any suitable sport board.

Preferred examples of sport boards of the present invention may be selected from: snow boards, paddle boards, skis, sand boards, windsurfer boards, kite surfer boards, wake boards, body boards, skim boards, surf boards, and combinations thereof.

A preferred sports board is a surfboard or a paddle board or a windsurfer board.

A preferred sports board is a surfboard.

Preferred aspects of the present invention Some preferred aspects of the present invention will now be described.

In one aspect, there is provided a kit capable of forming a series of sport board assemblies; wherein each sport board assembly comprises a middle section and a top section and a bottom section, each of which sections has an upper side and a lower side; wherein at least one of the top section and the bottom section is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section; wherein the kit comprises at least said middle section and said top section and said bottom section; where in if the top section is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section then the kit comprises at least two different top sections each of which is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section; wherein if the bottom section is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section then the kit comprises at least two different bottom sections each of which is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section.

In another aspect, there is provided a sport board assembly or a series of sport board assemblies prepared by the kit according to the present invention.

Preferably the top section comprises at least the nose (i.e. a region that extends from the tip to 12 inches from the tip).

Preferably the bottom section comprises at least the tail (i.e. a region that extends from the base to 12 inches from the base).

Preferably, the kit comprises at least one leash.

Preferably, the or each bottom section comprises at least one securement point for a leash.

Preferably, the kit comprises at least one fin.

Preferably, the or each bottom section comprises at least one housing for a fin.

Preferably, the top section is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section and the kit comprises at least two different top sections each of which is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section.

Preferably, the bottom section is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section and the kit comprises at least two different bottom sections each of which is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section.

Preferably, the top section is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section and the kit comprises at least two different top sections each of which is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section; and wherein the bottom section is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section and the kit comprises at least two different bottom sections each of which is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section.

Preferably, the rocker of at least a part of the middle section matches the rocker of at least a part of the top section.

Preferably, the rocker of at least a part of the middle section matches and extends the rocker of at least a part of the top section.

Preferably, the rocker of at least a part of the middle section matches the rocker of at least a part of the bottom section.

Preferably, the rocker of at least a part of the middle section matches and extends the rocker of at least a part of the bottom section.

Preferably, the rocker of at least a part of the middle section matches the rocker of at least a part of the top section; and wherein the rocker of at least a part of the middle section matches the rocker of at least a part of the bottom section.

Preferably, the rocker of at least a part of the middle section matches and extends the rocker of at least a part of the top section; andlor wherein the rocker of at least a part of the middle section matches and extends the rocker of at least a part of the bottom section.

Preferably, the rail of at least a part of the middle section matches the rail of at least a part of the top section.

Preferably, the rail of at least a part of the middle section matches and extends the rail of at least a part of the top section.

Preferably, the rail of at least a part of the middle section matches the rail of at least a part of the bottom section.

Preferably, the rail of at least a part of the middle section matches and extends the rail of at least a part of the bottom section.

Preferably, the rail of at least a part of the middle section matches and extends the rail of at least a part of the top section; and/or wherein the rail of at least a part of the middle section matches and extends the rail of at least a part of the bottom section.

Securement means may be present. The securement means may be any suitable securement means that may be present on the top surface and/or bottom surface of each section. In addition, or in the alternative, the additional securement means may be positioned on or through the end surfaces of the sections. An example of an additional securement means that is positioned through the end surfaces of the sections are a screw or bolt that can travel through the top section and/or bottom section and into the middle section and is retained in situ by means of receptive threads.

Preferably, the end surface of the middle section and the end surface of the top section comprise one or more mutually co-operable pillar(s) and pillar-housing(s) such that when each pillar is mounted into each respective pillar-housing the middle section and the top section are releasably mounted to each other.

Additional securement means may be present. These additional securement means may be present on the top surface and/or bottom surface of each section. In addition, or in the alternative, the additional securement means may be positioned on or through the end surfaces of the sections. An example of an additional securement means that is positioned through the end surfaces of the sections are a screw or bolt that can travel through the top section and into the middle section and is retained in Situ by means of receptive threads.

Preferably, the end surface of the middle section and the end surface of the top section comprise one or more mutually co-operable pillar(s) and pillar-housing(s), wherein the end surface of the middle section comprises at least one pillar that is co-operable with at least one pillar-housing in the end surface of the top section, such that when each pillar is mounted into each respective pillar-housing the middle section and the top section are releasably mounted to each other.

Again, additional securement means may be present. These additional securement means may be present on the top surface and/or bottom surface of each section. In addition, or in the alternative, the additional securement means may be positioned on or through the end surfaces of the sections. An example of an additional securement means that is positioned through the end surfaces of the sections are a screw or bolt that can travel through the top section and into the middle section and is retained in situ by means of receptive threads.

Preferably, the end surface of the middle section and the end surface of the top section comprise one or more mutually co-operable pillar(s) and pillar-housing(s), wherein the end surface of the middle section comprises at least one pillar-housing that is co-operable with at least one pillar extending from the end surface of the top section, such that when each pillar is mounted into each respective pillar-housing the middle section and the top section are releasably mounted to each other.

Preferably, the end surface of the middle section and the end surface of the bottom section comprise one or more mutually co-operable pillar(s) and pillar-housing(s) such that when each pillar is mounted into each respective pillar-housing the middle section and the bottom section are releasably mounted to each other.

Additional securement means may be present. These additional securement means may be present on the top surface andlor bottom surface of each section. In addition, or in the alternative, the additional securement means may be positioned on or through the end surfaces of the sections. An example of an additional securement means that is positioned through the end surfaces of the sections are a screw or bolt that can travel through the bottom section and into the middle section and is retained in situ by means of receptive threads.

Preferably, the end surface of the middle section and the end surface of the bottom section comprise one or more mutually co-operable pillar(s) and pillar-housing(s), wherein the end surface of the middle section comprises at least one pillar that is co-operable with at least one pillar-housing in the end surface of the bottom section, such that when each pillar is mounted into each respective pillar-housing the middle section and the bottom section are releasably mounted to each other.

Again, additional securement means may be present. These additional securement means may be present on the top surface andlor bottom surface of each section. In addition, or in the alternative, the additional securement means may be positioned on or through the end surfaces of the sections. An example of an additional securement means that is positioned through the end surfaces of the sections are a screw or bolt that can travel through the bottom section and into the middle section and is retained in situ by means of receptive threads.

Preferably, the end surface of the middle section and the end surface of the bottom section comprise one or more mutually co-operable pillar(s) and pillar-housing(s), wherein the end surface of the middle section comprises at least one pillar-housing that is co-operable with at least one pillar extending from the end surface of the bottom section, such that when each pillar is mounted into each respective pillar-housing the middle section and the bottom section are releasably mounted to each other.

Again, additional securement means may be present. These additional securement means may be present on the top surface and/or bottom surface of each section. In addition, or in the alternative, the additional securement means may be positioned on or through the end surfaces of the sections. An example of an additional securement means that is positioned through the end surfaces of the sections are a screw or bolt that can travel through the bottom section and into the middle section and is retained in situ by means of receptive threads.

The present invention also encompasses combinations of such arrangements.

In the kit there are at least two releasably mountable and securable top sections and/or at least two releasably mountable and securable bottom sections. Examples of kits include: At least one (i.e. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 etc.) middle section having a bottom section and at least two (i.e. 2, 3, 4, 5 etc.) releasably mountable and securable top sections At least one (e.g.. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 etc.) middle section having a top section and at least two (i.e. 2, 3, 4, 5 etc.) releasably mountable and securable bottom sections At least one (i.e. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 etc.) middle section having a bottom section and at least two (i.e. 2, 3, 4, 5 etc.) releasably mountable and securable top sections and at least two (i.e. 2, 3, 4, 5 etc.) releasably mountable and securable bottom sections

Examples include:

1 middle section having a bottom section and 2 releasably mountable securable top sections I middle section having a top section and 2 releasably mountable and securable bottom sections I middle section and 2 releasably mountable and securable top sections and 1 releasably mountable and securable bottom section 1 middle section and 1 releasably mountable and securable top section and 2 releasably mountable and securable bottom sections 1 middle section and 2 releasably mountable and securable top sections and 2 releasably mountable and securable bottom sections 2 middle sections and 2 releasably mountable and securable top sections and 2 releasably mountable and securable bottom sections 1 middle section having a bottom section and 3 releasably mountable securable top sections 1 middle section having a top section and 3 releasably mountable and securable bottom sections 1 middle section and 3 releasably mountable and securable top sections and 1 releasably mountable and securable bottom section 2 middle sections and 2 releasably mountable and securable top section and 2 releasably mountable and securable bottom section 2 middle sections and 2 releasably mountable and securable top sections and 2 releasably mountable and securable bottom sections 2 middle sections and 3 releasably mountable and securable top sections and 3 releasably mountable and securable bottom sections Preferably, the sport board assembly is for use on water.

Preferably, the sport board assembly is a surfboard.

Specific aspects of the present invention A kit capable of forming a series of sport board assemblies; wherein each sport board assembly comprises a middle section and a top section and a bottom section, each of which sections has an upper side and a lower side; wherein at least one of the top section and the bottom section is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section; wherein the kit comprises at least said middle section and said top section and said bottom section; wherein if the top section is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section then the kit comprises at least two different top sections each of which is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section; wherein if the bottom section is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section then the kit comprises at least two different bottom sections each of which is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section; wherein the top section is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section and the kit comprises at least two different top sections each of which is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section and/or the bottom section is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section and the kit comprises at least two different bottom sections each of which is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section.

A kit capable of forming a series of sport board assemblies; wherein each sport board assembly comprises a middle section and a top section and a bottom section, each of which sections has an upper side and a lower side; wherein at least one of the top section and the bottom section is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section; wherein the kit comprises at least said middle section and said top section and said bottom section; wherein if the top section is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section then the kit comprises at least two different top sections each of which is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section; wherein if the bottom section is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section then the kit comprises at least two different bottom sections each of which is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section; wherein the top section is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section and the kit comprises at least two different top sections each of which is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section and/or the bottom section is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section and the kit comprises at least two different bottom sections each of which is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section; wherein the rail of at least a part of the middle section matches and extends the rail of at least a part of the top section; and/or wherein the rail of at least a part of the middle section matches and extends the rail of at least a part of the bottom section and/or wherein the rocker of at least a part of the middle section matches and extends the rocker of at least a part of the top section; and/or wherein the rocker of at least a part of the middle section matches and extends the rocker of at least a part of the bottom section.

A kit capable of forming a series of sport board assemblies; wherein each sport board assembly comprises a middle section and a top section and a bottom section, each of which sections has an upper side and a lower side; wherein at least one of the top section and the bottom section is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section; wherein the kit comprises at least said middle section and said top section and said bottom section; wherein if the top section is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section then the kit comprises at least two different top sections each of which is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section; wherein if the bottom section is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section then the kit comprises at least two different bottom sections each of which is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section; wherein the top section is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section and the kit comprises at least two different top sections each of which is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section andlor the bottom section is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section and the kit comprises at least two different bottom sections each of which is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section; wherein each sport board assembly is a surfboard.

A kit capable of forming a series of sport board assemblies; wherein each sport board assembly comprises a middle section and a top section and a bottom section, each of which sections has an upper side and a lower side; wherein at least one of the top section and the bottom section is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section; wherein the kit comprises at least said middle section and said top section and said bottom section; wherein if the top section is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section then the kit comprises at least two different top sections each of which is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section; wherein if the bottom section is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section then the kit comprises at least two different bottom sections each of which is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section; wherein the top section is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section and the kit comprises at least two different top sections each of which is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section and/or the bottom section is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section and the kit comprises at least two different bottom sections each of which is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section; wherein the rail of at least a part of the middle section matches and extends the rail of at least a part of the top section; and/or wherein the rail of at least a part of the middle section matches and extends the rail of at least a part of the bottom section and/or wherein the rocker of at least a part of the middle section matches and extends the rocker of at least a part of the top section; and/or wherein the rocker of at least a part of the middle section matches and extends the rocker of at least a part of the bottom section; wherein each sport board assembly is a surfboard.

Figures In this application, reference is made to the following Figures: Fig 1 -which is a schematic diagram of the front side and reverse side of a surfboard.

Fig 2-which is a schematic diagram of a side view of a surfboard.

Fig 3 -which is a schematic diagram of the front sides of four different surfboards.

Fig 4 -which is a schematic diagram of a kit according to the present invention.

Suriboards The present invention will now be described with reference to surfboards.

However, the teachings herein are applicable to other sports boards -such as snow boards, skis, sand boards, paddle boards, windsurfer boards, kite surfer boards, wake boards, body boards, skim boards, etc. In this respect, whilst references are made to surfboards and certain surfboard terminology has been used, it is to be understood that some or all of the teachings apply to other sport boards of the present invention (such as snow boards, skis, sand boards, paddle boards, windsurfer boards, kite surfer boards, wake boards, body boards, skim boards) and that the equivalent terminology applies.

Surfboards are known. Examples of some surfboards are shown in Figures 1 to 3.

With reference to Figure 1: the surfboard (1) has a front side (or upper side) (3) and a reverse side (or back side or underside) (10). The user typically stands on the front side (3).

The board (1) comprises a top end -which is generally referred to as the nose (15).

The nose (15) is typically the region that extends 12" down from the tip of the board (1).

The board (1) comprises a bottom end -which is generally referred to as the tail (20). The tail (20) is typically the region that extends 12" up from the base of the board (1).

The front side (3) has a section known as the deck (25) between the nose (15) and the tail (20). The user stands on the deck (25) when he/she has caught a wave.

Typically, the deck (25) and in some instances the nose (15) andlor the tail (20) are at least partly coated in a material (not shown) -such as a wax -to improve the adhesion of the user to the board (1) whilst in use. It is possible to obtain waxes and the like (not shown) for a number of water temperatures -such as wax for cold water, wax for cool water, and wax for tropical water. Occasionally, users apply deck grips (not shown) to the deck (25) and/or the tail (20). A deck grip (not shown) is typically a rough-surfaced material (sometimes 2 to 4 cms thick) that is secured to the surfboard by means of adhesive (not shown).

The outer edges (30) of the surfboard (1) are often referred to as the rails (30). The rails (30) are typically the edge of the surfboard (1) where the deck (25) wraps around from the front side (3) to meet the reverse side (10). The rails can have many profiles.

Rails can be described in general terms like hard and soft. They can also be described by their shape characteristics and proportionately as a ratio of distance of the widest point between the deck and the bottom of the board. A round rail is a rail that is almost a complete semi-circle. An egg rail is like a round rail but has an ovoid profile. A down rail comes to an edge at the bottom of the board. A rolled rail is like a down rail but is rolled under the board.

Fuller rails carry more foam -thus providing floatation. Thinner tapered rails carry less foam -thus making it easier for the user to lean on an edge as they are less buoyant. Typically, hard rails do not penetrate the water well at high speeds, whilst softer rails provide a smoother response.

The surfboard (1) is typically formed from shaping a single blank (not shown) or it is injection moulded (not shown) in one piece.

Surfboard blanks are typically foam blocks that are then shaved to the desired profile. The type of blank will largely dictate the strength of the surfboard -in particular the resistance of the surfboard (e.g. the deck) to dents (sometimes referred to as dings). Typically, the heavier the foam of the blank, the better the strength and resistance to dents on the deck. Blanks are typically classified according to foam weight -viz: competition light, light, medium and heavy. Blanks may be made from polystyrene (typically used in combination with epoxy resins) or polyurethane (typically used in combination with polyester resins).

During manufacture, the surfboard (1) is often strengthened by use of a material (35) that extends from the nose (15) to the tail (20). That material is often referred to as the stringer (35). The stringer (35) typically comprises wood or a wood composite or a glue. The stringer (35) generally runs down the centre line of the surfboard (1). The stringers provide strength to the surfboard (1). Some surfboards have a plurality of stringers (not shown).

The nose (15) can have different profiles -ranging from a round profile to a pointed profile.

The tail (20) can have many profiles -ranging from a rounded profile ("round tail"), pin, rounded pin, square tail, squash tail, to cut-in sections to an inset section (e.g. in the shape of a "V" -and is sometimes referred to as a "swallow tail"). With a round tail, the two sides of the surfboard come together in smooth curves to form a semicircle. With a square tail, rails end suddenly, forming a box shape. A squash tail is like a square tail but wherein the square tips are softened. With a swallow tail, the rails end suddenly and a "V" is cut back in towards the stringer.

The distribution of foam from the nose (15) to the tail (20) on the surfboard is known as surfboard foil. If there is excessive foam left in one area -such as the nose or the tail -then the surfboard in use becomes unbalanced. In contrast, a more even distribution of foam will help performance.

When the desired surfboard profile has been prepared, a protective coating is applied over the exterior of the shaped profile. This is typically referred to as glassing. Before the glassing stage, typically the surfboard structure is toughened with fibreglass (typically saturated with resin). Here, fibreglass strips are used to laminate the board and thereby produce a hard outer surface. The fibreglass is often used as fibreglass cloth. Here, glass fibres that are woven into a cloth with weights of about 4ozJl square yard of cloth or about 6oz/1 square yard of cloth or about lOoi/1 square yard of cloth, etc. Generally, the fibres are stronger the heavier the weight of the cloth.

In some instances, carbon fibres (sometimes soaked in resin) are laid in strips along the length of a board during glassing to help prevent creasing.

There are available many types of resins that can be used in the production of a surfboard. Typically, a catalyst is used to harden the resin -such as a polyester resin. The time taken for the resin to harden can depend on the amount of catalyst andlor the amount of UV radiation andlor the ambient air temperature.

Surfboard blanks may be formed from polyurethane.

Surfboards may also be formed from expanded polystyrene foam (EPS). Typically EPS foam is used with an epoxy resin to form the surfboard. Generally, EPS foam blanks are very light in weight. Surfboards may also be made from extruded polystyrene foam (ExPS). ExPS foam has a more closed cell structure than EPS foam -making it more strong and more water resistant.

Moulded boards are typically prepared by injecting a plastic moulded shell with expanding foam. Examples of such surfboards are sold by BiC Surfboards.

Some surthoards are made of wood materials, such as balsa wood.

The rocker of a surfboard is the side shape of the surfboard. It is usually further defined as being the top rocker and the bottom rocker. The typical design of a surfboard comprises a flatter curve in the middle of the surfboard, with ever-increasing curves towards the nose section and the tail section. The design of the bottom rocker that includes the tail section of the surfboard can determine the turning characteristics of the surfboard. The design of the top rocker that includes the nose section of the surfboard can determine how easy it is to catch a wave or how much wind resistance the surfboard encounters whilst in use.

The reverse side (10) is often sloped upwards towards the nose (15). The reverse side (10) may include design feature that affect the performance of the surfboard (1). Examples of designs include: flat bottoms, concave designs, Vee design, channels, and combinations thereof. The concave design can yield lift and drive during use.

In the portion at or near to the tail (20) are one or more fins (not shown). Fins are used to assist the control, direction and drive of the surfboard by the user. Many different fin shapes are available. In addition, fins are made out of many different materials are available.

Typically, the fins are located in one or more fin housing boxes (60, 65, 70). Some surfboards have one fin housing box (70). The fins (not shown) are secured into the fin housing boxes (60, 65, 70) by means of suitable locking arrangements. An example of a fin system and locking arrangement is FCS (Fin Control Systems) fins.

Some suriboards have two fin housing boxes (65, 60). Some surfboards have three fin housing boxes (60, 65, 70). Some surfboards have four fin housing boxes (not shown) or even five fin housing boxes (not shown). With a plurality of fin housing boxes, the user can decide bow many fins he/she wishes to use and in a particular configuration. A three fin configuration is typically known as a "thruster set-up".

Other configurations are sometimes called "twin-fin set-up", "quad-fin set-up", etc. The surfboard (1) usually has a securement point (40) to which the user can attach a leash (not shown). The leash is used to attach the user to a surfboard. It is sometimes referred to as a leg rope. The leash is typically a strong elastic polyurethane cord that has at one end a band (not shown) that can form an adjustable collar (not shown) that can be used to secure the collar (and thereby the surfboard) to the ankle or knee of the user. Typically, the collar is securable by Velcro (not shown).

In some instances, the nose may be provided with a guard -sometimes referred to as a nose guard (not shown). Typically the nose guard is adhered to the nose of the surfboard and to provide protection to the actual tip of the surfboard. Nose guards may be formed from any suitable material -such as silicon tip. a

Typically, three key surfboard dimensions are noted. The dimensions are quoted in Imperial lengths (feet () and inches (")).

The first dimension is the length -which is typically measured from the tip of the nose to the end of the base. Typically, the longer the surfboard, the more floatation there is. Also, longer surfboards can be paddled with more ease, and enable the user to catch waves more early. Typically, shorter surfboards turn easier. Generally, short boards are more sensitive to weight transfer.

The second dimension is the width -which is typically measured across the greatest width of the deck (25). The wider the surfboard the more foam it contains -which enhances floatation of the surfboard. Typically, narrow boards are more suited to fast hollow waves. Generally, surfboards with wider noses are easier to paddle easier, whereas narrower noses enhance movement. Generally, surfboards with a wider tail feel looser at low speeds than surfboards with a narrower tail. Typically, surfboards with a narrow tail are better suited for larger and hollower surf conditions.

The third dimension is the thicknesses -which is typically measured as being the distance the outer surface of the front side (25) and the outer surface of the reverse side (10).

Additional dimensions are other widths along the length of the board from nose to tail. For example, nose width is typically measured 12" down from the tip towards the base. Tail width is typically measured 12" up from the base towards the tip.

Surfboards are typically classified depending on the inter-relationship of these three dimensions (i.e. length, width and thickness). Examples of surfboard types are: long boards; fish; short board; contemporary short board; mini-mal; gun; mini-gun; semi-gun; egg; fun board; rhino chaser; retro surfboard, a hybrid surfboard and a soft board.

By way of example, short boards are usually between about 516u to about 7'O" long, with a width between about 16" to about 19", and a thickness from about 1.75" to about 2.75". Depending on the profile of the short board, the nose width can vary from about 10" to about 12", whereas the tail width can vary from about 12.5" to about 14.5". The bottom rocker may be about 5" to 6" in the nose, and from about 2" to 3" in the tail.

By way of further example, long boards are usually between about 6' to about 12' long (typically between 8'6" to 10'6"), with a width between about 20" to about 26", and a thickness from about 2.5" to about 4". Depending on the profile of the long board, the nose width can vary from about 15" to about 20", whereas the tail width can vary from about 12" to about 15.5". The bottom rocker may be about 5" to 6" in the nose, and from about 2" to 5" in the tail. Typically they have a rounded nose.

The tail shapes are generally square or rounded-pin shapes.

By way of further example, hybrid boards are intermediate a long board and a short board. They are usually between about 6'S" to about 9' long, with a width between about 20" to about 23", and a thickness from about 2.5" to about 3.5". Depending on the profile of the long board, the nose width can vary from about 13" to about 17", whereas the tail width can vary from about 13" to about 16". The tail is generally square.

By way of further example, an egg is similar to a hybrid. The egg typically has a rounded-pin tail.

By way of further example, a fish (Fish or FISH) comprises a wide nose and broad swallow-type tail design, with a twin-fin setup. But recently, the term generally refers to any short, stubby, wide surfboard.

By way of further example, a fun board has dimensions that combine the float of a long board (enabling a user to paddle out into the waves easier) but does not have the length and volume as a long board.

By way of further example, a soft board typically has a deck constructed of a strong foam-like material. In some instances, the bottom of the surfboard is also of a firm foam-like material.

S With reference to Figure 2: the surfboard (200) has a front side (or upper side) (203) and a reverse side (or back side or underside) (not shown). The board (200) comprises a nose (21 5). The board (200) comprises a tail (220). The front side (203) has a deck (225). The surfboard (200) has rails (230). The surfboard (200) has a stringer (235). The nose (215) has a pointed profile. The tail (220) is like a squash tail. The rocker from above the mid-section is sloping upwards towards the nose (215). In the portion at or near to the tail (220) on the reverse side are three fins in a thruster arrangement (only two shown: (275) and (276)). The surfboard (200) has a securement point (240) to which is attached a leash (280). The leash (280) comprises a polyurethane cord (282) and a band (285) that has formed an adjustable collar. The collar is securable by Velcro (not shown).

With reference to Figure 3: four different styles of surfboard are shown ((301), (310), (320) and (330)). Surfboard (301) is a mini-gun. Surfboard (310) is a mini-mal. Surfboard (320) is a fish. Surfboard (330) is a long board.

When suitably adapted for the present invention, such as described herein, any of the above described surfboards and/or surfboard features may be the first sport board.

In addition, or in the alternative, the second sport board can be adapted to accommodate any of the above described surf boards and/or surfboard features which may be the first sport board.

Likewise, when suitably adapted for the present invention, such as described herein, any of the above described surfboards and/or surfboard features may be the second sport board.

Advantages of the present invention Advantages of the present invention are apparent. Some of the advantages are described herein.

For example, the user is now able to travel to a certain location with at least two different profiles of sports boards and then chose which board to use for the actual conditions that he/she is confronted with.

By having at least two sports boards in one kit means that volume taken up by the sports boards is less than if they were to be carried separately.

With the kit of the present invention, the profile of the sport board may be easily changed by changing the profile of -for example -the top section and/or the bottom section and/or the middle section.

With some arrangements (such as those described herein) a user may even have at least three sports boards or even at least four sports boards.

With the present invention, the user may have additional sections -thereby increasing the number and also the types of sports boards that are contained within the kit of the present invention.

Kit of the present invention As already mentioned, Figures 1 to 3 describe examples of suriboards.

Figure 4 will now be described that demonstrate a series of assemblies according to the present invention.

As indicated above, Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of a kit according to the present invention. In this embodiment it is to be understood that different middle sections may be provided. In this embodiment it is to be understood that different or more top sections may be provided. In this embodiment it is to be understood that different or more bottom sections may be provided. In this embodiment it is to be understood that the top section may be integral with the middle section. In this embodiment it is to be understood that the bottom section may be integral with the middle section. In this embodiment it is to be understood that different or more securement means may be provided. In this embodiment it is to be understood that different or more mountable means may be provided. However, it is to be understood that in each embodiment the kit has to be capable of forming a series of sport board assemblies; wherein each sport board assembly comprises a middle section and a top section and a bottom section, each of which sections has an upper side and a lower side; wherein at least one of the top section and the bottom section is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section; wherein the kit comprises at least said middle section and said top section and said bottom section; wherein if the top section is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section then the kit comprises at least two different top sections each of which is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section; wherein if the bottom section is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section then the kit comprises at least two different bottom sections each of which is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section.

In Figure 4: the surfboard kit (401) comprises a series of sections (402, 430, 440, 450 and 460) -combinations of which are capable of being releasably mounted and secured together to form a series of sport board assemblies, wherein each sport board assembly is a surfboard. Each surfboard comprises a middle section and a top section and a bottom section, each of which sections has an upper side and a lower side.

The kit (401) comprises a middle section (402) that has an upper side (404) and a lower side (not shown). The middle section (402) has an upper edge surface (an end surface) (406) into which extend pillar-housings (408a and 408b). The middle section (402) has extending into the upper edge surface (an end surface) (406) thread receptive cavities (41 Oa and 41 Ob) that can retain screws (or bolts) (41 2a and 412b respectively). The middle section (402) has an lower edge surface (an end surface) (416) into which extend pillar-housings (418a and 418b). The middle section (402) has extending into the lower edge surface (an end surface) (416) thread receptive cavities (420a and 420b) that can retain screws (or bolts) (422a and 422b respectively). The middle section (402) has a certain rocker profile (not shown). The middle section has a certain rail profile on each side (414a and 414b respectively). At least a part of the upper side (404) defines the deck for the user when the surfboard has been assembled.

The kit (401) comprises releasably mountable and securable top section (430) that has an upper side (432) and a lower side (not shown). The top section (430) has an lower edge surface (an end surface) (434) out from which extend pillars (436a and 436b) that can be releasably securably mountable within housings (408a and 408b respectively). The top section (430) has extending into the lower edge surface (an end surface) (434) thread receptive cavities (43 8a and 43 8b) that can retain screws (or bolts) (412a and 412b respectively). The top section (430) has a rocker profile (not shown), at least part of which when mounted onto the middle section (402) matches and extends the rocker profile of the middle section (402). The top section (430) has a rail profile on each side (439a and 439b respectively), at least part of which when mounted onto the middle section (402) matches and extends the rail profile of the middle section (414a and 414b respectively). At least a part of the upper side (432) may be used to define the deck for the user when the surfboard has been assembled. In use, the top section (430) is mounted onto the middle section (402) by marrying up of the pillars (436a and 436b) and the pillar housings (408a and 408b respectively). Then screws (or bolts) (41 2a and 41 2b) can be used to tighten the top section (430) to the middle section (402) as they are threaded into receptive threaded channels (439a and 410a; and 439b and 410b, respectively). If desired, the entry ports of the receptive threaded channels (439a and 439b) for the screws (or bolts) (412a and 412b respectively) may be sunken so that the screws (or bolts) (4l2a and 412b) do not sit proud of the outer edges of the top section (430).

The kit (401) comprises releasably mountable and securable top section (440) that has an upper side (442) and a lower side (not shown). The top section (440) has an lower edge surface (an end surface) (434) out from which extend pillars (446a and 446b) that can be releasably securably mountable within housings (408a and 408b respectively). The top section (440) has extending into the lower edge surface (an end surface) (444) thread receptive cavities (448a and 448b) that can retain screws (or bolts) (41 2a and 41 2b respectively). The top section (440) has a rocker profile (not shown), at least part of which when mounted onto the middle section (402) matches and extends the rocker profile of the middle section (402). The top section (440) has a rail profile on each side (449a and 449b respectively), at least part of which when mounted onto the middle section (402) matches and extends the rail profile of the middle section (414a and 414b respectively). At least a part of the upper side (442) may be used to define the deck for the user when the surfboard has been assembled. In use, the top section (440) is mounted onto the middle section (402) by marrying up of the pillars (446a and 446b) and the pillar housings (408a and 408b respectively). Then screws (or bolts) (412a and 412b) can be used to tighten the top section (440) to the middle section (402) as they are threaded into receptive threaded channels (449a and 410a; and 449b and 410b, respectively). If desired, the entry ports of the receptive threaded channels (449a and 449b) for the screws (or bolts) (412a and 412b respectively) may be sunken so that the screws (or bolts) (41 2a and 41 2b) do not sit proud of the outer edges of the top section (440).

The shape of top section (430) is different to that of top section (440).

The kit (401) comprises releasably mountable and securable bottom section (450) that has an upper side (452) and a lower side (not shown). The lower side has mounted thereon one or more fins (not shown) or one or more fin housing boxes (not shown) for mounting one or more fins (not shown). The bottom section (450) has an upper edge surface (an end surface) (454) out from which extend pillars (456a and 456b) that can be releasably securably mountable within housings (41 8a and 418b respectively). The bottom section (450) has extending into the upper edge surface (an end surface) (454) thread receptive cavities (458a and 458b) that can retain screws (or bolts) (422a and 422b respectively). The bottom section (450) has a rocker profile (not shown), at least part of which when mounted onto the middle section (402) matches and extends the rocker profile of the middle section (402).

The bottom section (450) has a rail profile on each side (459a and 459b respectively), at least part of which when mounted onto the middle section (402) matches and extends the rail profile of the middle section (414a and 414b respectively). At least a part of the upper side (452) may be used to define the deck for the user when the surfboard has been assembled. In use, the bottom section (450) is mounted onto the middle section (402) by marrying up of the pillars (456a and 456b) and the pillar housings (418a and 418b respectively). Then screws (or bolts) (422a and 422b) can be used to tighten the bottom section (450) to the middle section (402) as they are threaded into receptive threaded channels (459a and 418a; and 459b and 418b, respectively). If desired, the entry ports of the receptive threaded channels (459a and 459b) for the screws (or bolts) (422a and 422b respectively) may be sunken so that the screws (or bolts) (422a and 422b) do not sit proud of the outer edges of the bottom section (450).

The kit (401) comprises releasably mountable and securable bottom section (460) that has an upper side (462) and a lower side (not shown). The lower side has mounted thereon one or more fins (not shown) or one or more fin housing boxes (not shown) for mounting one or more fins (not shown). The bottom section (460) has an upper edge surface (an end surface) (464) out from which extend pillars (466a and 466b) that can be releasably securably mountable within housings (418a and 41 8b respectively). The bottom section (460) has extending into the upper edge surface (an end surface) (464) thread receptive cavities (468a and 468b) that can retain screws (or bolts) (422a and 422b respectively). The bottom section (460) has a rocker profile (not shown), at least part of which when mounted onto the middle section (402) matches and extends the rocker profile of the middle section (402).

The bottom section (460) has a rail profile on each side (469a and 469b respectively), at least part of which when mounted onto the middle section (402) matches and extends the rail profile of the middle section (414a and 414b respectively). At least a part of the upper side (462) may be used to define the deck for the user when the surfboard has been assembled. In use, the bottom section (460) is mounted onto the middle section (402) by marrying up of the pillars (466a and 466b) and the pillar housings (418a and 418b respectively). Then screws (or bolts) (422a and 422b) can be used to tighten the bottom section (460) to the middle section (402) as they are threaded into receptive threaded channels (469a and 41 8a; and 469b and 41 8b, respectively). If desired, the entry ports of the receptive threaded channels (469a and 469b) for the screws (or bolts) (422a and 422b respectively) may be sunken so that the screws (or bolts) (422a and 422b) do not sit proud of the outer edges of the bottom section (460).

The shape of bottom section (450) is different to that of bottom section (460).

At least one of the sections (402, 434, 444, 454, 464) may comprise a stringer.

At least two of the sections (402, 434, 444, 454, 464) may comprise a stringer.

At least three of the sections (402, 434, 444, 454, 464) may comprise a stringer.

At least four of the sections (402, 434, 444, 454, 464) may comprise a stringer.

All of the sections (402, 434, 444, 454, 464) may comprise a stringer.

In the kit, additional securement means may be present (not shown). The additional securement means may be any suitable securement means that may be present on the top surface andlor bottom surface of each section. In addition, or in the alternative, the additional securement means may be positioned on or through the end surfaces of the sections. An example of an additional attachment means provided to the upper surfaces are releasable bindings (not shown).

With the kit, one or more fins may be provided (not shown).

The surthoard of the present invention may be made of any suitable material.

The surfboard of the present invention may have any suitable fin configuration or configurations.

The end sections of the kit (450 and 460) may be provided with a securement point (not shown) to which is attachable a leash (not shown).

With this particular kit configuration, there are: 1 middle section arid 2 releasably mountable and securable top sections and 2 releasably mountable and securable bottom sections. This provides the user with a number of potential surfboards (at least 4) -each having a different profile and flow dynamic than the other.

With the kit, there may be provided other and/or additional middle sections and/or other and/or additional top sections and/or other and/or additional bottom sections.

For example, there may be: 2 middle sections and 2 releasably mountable and securable top sections and 3 releasably mountable and securable bottom sections.

This provides the user with an even greater number of potential surfboards -each having a different profile and flow dynamic than the other.

Depending on the shapes of the sections provided, the kit of the present invention could thus provide the user the combination of at least a short surfboard and a long surfboard.

All publications mentioned in the above specification, and references cited in said publications, are herein incorporated by reference. Various modifications and variations of the described methods and system of the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention. Although the invention has been described in connection with specific preferred embodiments, it should be understood that the invention as claimed should not be unduly limited to such specific embodiments. Indeed, various modifications of the described modes for carrying out the invention which are obvious to those skilled in the art are intended to be within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A kit capable of forming a series of sport board assemblies; wherein each sport board assembly comprises a middle section and a top section and a bottom section, each of which sections has an upper side and a lower side; wherein at least one of the top section and the bottom section is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section; wherein the kit comprises at least said middle section and said top section and said bottom section; wherein if the top section is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section then the kit comprises at least two different top sections each of which is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section; wherein if the bottom section is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section then the kit comprises at least two different bottom sections each of which is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section.
2. A kit according to claim 1 wherein the top section is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section and the kit comprises at least two different top sections each of which is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section.
3. A kit according to claim 1 wherein the bottom section is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section and the kit comprises at least two different bottom sections each of which is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section.
4. A kit according to any one of claims 1 to 3 wherein the top section is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section and the kit comprises at least two different top sections each of which is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section; and wherein the bottom section is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section and the kit comprises at least two different bottom sections each of which is securably mountable to and releasable from the middle section.
5. A kit according to any one of claims 1 to 4 wherein the rocker of at least a part of the middle section matches the rocker of at least a part of the top section.
6. A kit according to any one of claims 1 to 5 wherein the rocker of at least a part of the middle section matches and extends the rocker of at least a part of the top section.
7. A kit according to any one of claims 1 to 4 wherein the rocker of at least a part of the middle section matches the rocker of at least a part of the bottom section.
8. A kit according to any one of claims 1 to 4 or claim 7 wherein the rocker of at least a part of the middle section matches and extends the rocker of at least a part of the bottom section.
9. A kit according to any one of claims I to 8 wherein the rocker of at least a part of the middle section matches the rocker of at least a part of the top section; and wherein the rocker of at least a part of the middle section matches the rocker of at least a part of the bottom section.
10. A kit according to any one of claims ito 9 wherein the rocker of at least a part of the middle section matches and extends the rocker of at least a part of the top section; and/or wherein the rocker of at least a part of the middle section matches and extends the rocker of at least a part of the bottom section.
11. A kit according to any one of claims I to 10 wherein the rail of at least a part of the middle section matches the rail of at least a part of the top section.
12. A kit according to any one of claims ito 11 wherein the rail of at least a part of the middle section matches and extends the rail of at least a part of the top section.
13. A kit according to any one of claims I to 10 wherein the rail of at least a part of the middle section matches the rail of at least a part of the bottom section.
14. A kit according to any one of claims I to 10 or claim 13 wherein the rail of at least a part of the middle section matches and extends the rail of at least a part of the bottom section.
15. A kit according to any one of claims 1 to 14 wherein the rail of at least a part of the middle section matches and extends the rail of at least a part of the top section; andlor wherein the rail of at least a part of the middle section matches and extends the rail of at least a part of the bottom section.
16. A kit according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the sport board assembly is for use on water.
17. A kit according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the sport board assembly is a surfboard.
18. A kit according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the end surface of the middle section and the end surface of the top section comprise one or more mutually co-operable pillar(s) and pillar-housing(s) such that when each pillar is mounted into each respective pillar-housing the middle section and the top section are releasably mounted to each other.
19. A kit according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the end surface of the middle section and the end surface of the top section comprise one or more mutually co-operable pillar(s) and pillar-housing(s), wherein the end surface of the middle section comprises at least one pillar that is co-operable with at least one pillar-housing in the end surface of the top section, such that when each pillar is mounted into each respective pillar-housing the middle section and the top section are releasably mounted to each other.
20. A kit according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the end surface of the middle section and the end surface of the top section comprise one or more mutually co-operable pillar(s) and pillar-housing(s), wherein the end surface of the middle section comprises at least one pillar-housing that is co-operable with at least one pillar extending from the end surface of the top section, such that when each pillar is mounted into each respective pillar-housing the middle section and the top section are releasably mounted to each other.
21. A kit according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the end surface of the middle section and the end surface of the bottom section comprise one or more mutually co-operable pillar(s) and pillar-housing(s) such that when each pillar is mounted into each respective pillar-housing the middle section and the bottom section are releasably mounted to each other.
22. A kit according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the end surface of the middle section and the end surface of the bottom section comprise one or more mutually co-operable pillar(s) and pillar-housing(s), wherein the end surface of the middle section comprises at least one pillar that is co-operable with at least one pillar-housing in the end surface of the bottom section, such that when each pillar is mounted into each respective pillar-housing the middle section and the bottom section are releasably mounted to each other.
23. A kit according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the end surface of the middle section and the end surface of the bottom section comprise one or more mutually co-operable pillar(s) and pillar-housing(s), wherein the end surface of the middle section comprises at least one pillar-housing that is co-operable with at least one pillar extending from the end surface of the bottom section, such that when each pillar is mounted into each respective pillar-housing the middle section and the bottom section are releasably mounted to each other.
24. A kit according to any one of the preceding claims wherein a plurality of middle sections are provided each of which is securably and releasably mountable to the or each bottom section and/or top section.
25. A kit according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the or each top section comprises at least the nose.
26. A kit according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the or each bottom section comprises at least the tail.
27. A kit according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the kit comprises at least one leash.
28. A kit according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the or each bottom section comprises at least one securement point for a leash.
29. A kit according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the kit comprises at least one fin.
30. A kit according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the or each bottom section comprises at least one housing for a fin.
31. A sport board assembly or a series of sport board assemblies prepared by the kit according to any one of the preceding claims.
32. A kit substantially as described herein and with reference to Figure 4.
33. A sport board assembly substantially as described herein and with reference to Figure 4.