CA2455173A1 - Curling broom - Google Patents
Curling broom Download PDFInfo
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- CA2455173A1 CA2455173A1 CA 2455173 CA2455173A CA2455173A1 CA 2455173 A1 CA2455173 A1 CA 2455173A1 CA 2455173 CA2455173 CA 2455173 CA 2455173 A CA2455173 A CA 2455173A CA 2455173 A1 CA2455173 A1 CA 2455173A1
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- broom
- shaft
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- telescoping
- main shaft
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Abstract
A curling broom is provided having a main shaft and at least one telescoping shaft mounted on the main shaft for relative sliding movement therebetween. A broom head mounts an end of one of the shafts. A stop mechanism permits sliding movement of said at least one telescoping shaft in relation to the main shaft to be selectively restricted for retaining the shafts in an extended position at one of various selected lengths in use or in a retracted position for convenient storage. For certain persons depending upon sweeping style, adjustment of an overall length of the handle by use of telescoping shafts assists in increasing sweeping efficiency. Connecting the telescoping shaft with the main shaft in a sliding telescoping manner ensures proper strength of the handle in use due to the overlapping configuration upon which the shafts become coupled.
Description
CURLING BROOM
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to certain improvements to a curling broom for use in the sport or game of ice curling, and more particularly relates to an improved curling broom handle.
BACKGROUND
In the sport of curling, brooms are commonly used for sweeping the ice to affect performance of curling rocks sliding along the ice. A common type of broom generally involves an elongate and uninterrupted handle which mounts a broom head transversely at one end thereof. The broom head includes bristles or a padded member for brushing or sweeping the ice. It is common practice for persons to own their own curling brooms such that persons commonly are required to transport their curling brooms from home to the curling rink. The elongate handle is awkward both for storage and transport.
SUMMARY
According to one aspect of the present invention there is provided a curling broom comprising:
a main shaft;
at least one telescoping shaft mounted on the main shaft for relative sliding movement therebetween;
a broom head for mounting on an end of one of the shafts; and a stop mechanism for selectively restricting sliding movement of said at least one telescoping shaft in relation to the main shaft.
The use of a telescoping shaft permits the handle of the broom to be readily collapsed for occupying minimal space when storing or transporting the broom. For certain persons depending upon sweeping style, adjustment of an overall length of the handle by use of telescoping shafts assists in increasing sweeping efficiency. Connecting the telescoping shaft with the main shaft in a sliding telescoping manner ensures proper strength of the handle in use due to the overlapping configuration upon which the shafts become coupled.
There may be provided a handle grip supported on a different one of the shafts than the broom head. The broom head is preferably supported on said at least one telescoping shaft.
The stop mechanism may comprise a lock for positively restricting sliding movement in both direction when engaged at any one of a plurality of spaced positions.
Said at least one telescoping shaft preferably comprises a first telescoping shaft slidably received within the main shaft which supports the broom head thereon and a second telescoping shaft slidable with respect to the main shaft.
Preferably each of the telescoping shafts includes a stop mechanism for selectively restricting sliding movement of the respective telescoping shaft relative to an adjacent one of the shafts.
There may be provided a resilient padded member supported on a free end of one of the shafts opposite the broom head, wherein the resilient member lies transversely to a longitudinal direction of the shafts.
There may be provided a mounting member supported on the end of one of the shafts for selectively mounting various configurations of conventional broom heads thereon.
In one embodiment, there is provided a resilient member or cord coupled between the shafts to connect the shafts when the telescoping shaft is slidably removed from the main shaft. The stop mechanism in this instance restricts sliding of the telescoping shaft into the main shaft beyond a prescribed overlap.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to certain improvements to a curling broom for use in the sport or game of ice curling, and more particularly relates to an improved curling broom handle.
BACKGROUND
In the sport of curling, brooms are commonly used for sweeping the ice to affect performance of curling rocks sliding along the ice. A common type of broom generally involves an elongate and uninterrupted handle which mounts a broom head transversely at one end thereof. The broom head includes bristles or a padded member for brushing or sweeping the ice. It is common practice for persons to own their own curling brooms such that persons commonly are required to transport their curling brooms from home to the curling rink. The elongate handle is awkward both for storage and transport.
SUMMARY
According to one aspect of the present invention there is provided a curling broom comprising:
a main shaft;
at least one telescoping shaft mounted on the main shaft for relative sliding movement therebetween;
a broom head for mounting on an end of one of the shafts; and a stop mechanism for selectively restricting sliding movement of said at least one telescoping shaft in relation to the main shaft.
The use of a telescoping shaft permits the handle of the broom to be readily collapsed for occupying minimal space when storing or transporting the broom. For certain persons depending upon sweeping style, adjustment of an overall length of the handle by use of telescoping shafts assists in increasing sweeping efficiency. Connecting the telescoping shaft with the main shaft in a sliding telescoping manner ensures proper strength of the handle in use due to the overlapping configuration upon which the shafts become coupled.
There may be provided a handle grip supported on a different one of the shafts than the broom head. The broom head is preferably supported on said at least one telescoping shaft.
The stop mechanism may comprise a lock for positively restricting sliding movement in both direction when engaged at any one of a plurality of spaced positions.
Said at least one telescoping shaft preferably comprises a first telescoping shaft slidably received within the main shaft which supports the broom head thereon and a second telescoping shaft slidable with respect to the main shaft.
Preferably each of the telescoping shafts includes a stop mechanism for selectively restricting sliding movement of the respective telescoping shaft relative to an adjacent one of the shafts.
There may be provided a resilient padded member supported on a free end of one of the shafts opposite the broom head, wherein the resilient member lies transversely to a longitudinal direction of the shafts.
There may be provided a mounting member supported on the end of one of the shafts for selectively mounting various configurations of conventional broom heads thereon.
In one embodiment, there is provided a resilient member or cord coupled between the shafts to connect the shafts when the telescoping shaft is slidably removed from the main shaft. The stop mechanism in this instance restricts sliding of the telescoping shaft into the main shaft beyond a prescribed overlap.
According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a delivery supporting device for use with a curling broom having an elongate handle, the device comprising:
an elongate support arm;
first and second mounting arms supported at spaced positions on the support arm; and first and second mounting clips supported on the first and second mounting arms respectively at an equal spacing from the support arm;
each mounting clip comprising a clamping member for clamping engagement onto the handle of the curling broom.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
In the accompanying drawings, which illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present invention:
Figure 1 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of the curling broom.
Figure 2 is a side elevational view of the broom according to Figure 1.
Figure 3 illustrates an alternate embodiment of the curling broom in which the main shaft includes a fixed grip opposite the broom head.
Figure 4 is an exploded front perspective view illustrating an optional universal mounting plate for securement to an end of the telescoping shaft for mounting various broom head configurations thereon.
Figure 5 is a perspective view of an auxiliary handle arranged to be supported on the telescoping shaft supporting the broom head thereon.
Figure 6 is a side elevational view of a support member arranged to be supported on an end of the handle opposite the broom head.
Figures 7 and 8 are respective side elevational and end views of a supporting device which is optionally used with the handle of a curling broom.
Figures 9 and 10 are front perspective views of an alternate embodiment of a coupling between the main shaft and one telescoping shaft in respective connected and disassembled positions.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Referring to the accompanying drawings, there is illustrated a curling broom generally indicated by reference numeral 10. The broom generally includes a handle 12 and a broom head 14 similarly to conventional curling brooms for sweeping in the sport of curling.
The handle 12 generally includes a main shaft 16 which is elongate and tubular, extending in a longitudinal direction between a first open end 18 and a second open end 20. The main shaft is preferably formed of a rigid lightweight material which is hollow in construction between respective first and second open ends thereof.
The handle further includes a first telescoping shaft 22 which is slidably received within the first open end 18 of the main shaft. The telescoping shaft 22 is similarly tubular in construction, being formed of light rigid material. The first telescoping shaft is suitably sized so that an outer diameter thereof approximately equals the inner diameter of the main shaft to be snugly yet slidably received therein for movement between a retracted position with a majority of the telescoping shaft 22 being received within the main shaft and an extended position in which the majority of the first telescoping shaft extends outwardly beyond the main shaft. At least a portion of the first telescoping shaft and the main shaft remain overlapping in the extended position as illustrated in dotted line in Figure 1. The first telescoping shaft 22 includes a plurality of spaced apart apertures 24 which are evenly spaced in the longitudinal direction of the shaft, in longitudinal alignment along one side of the shaft.
A first stop mechanism 26 in the form of a conventional releasable pin lock is provided for selectively protruding into a selected one of the apertures 24 in the first telescoping shaft. The first stop mechanism includes a button 28 to activate release of the pin lock from the selected one of the apertures 24. When engaged, the pin lock of the first stop mechanism 26 restricts sliding movement of the first telescoping shaft 22 relative to the main shaft 16 in both directions.
Furthermore the pin lock is biased towards a locking position when the button 28 is not activated for automatic locking similarly to conventional pin locking configurations.
The lower free end of the first telescoping shaft 22 includes a broom head mount 32 secured thereon. The broom head mount 32 generally comprises a portion of the shaft 22 which is narrower in diameter and suitably arranged for selective coupling with an adapter mounting plate 34. The adapter plate 34 includes suitable mounting connections thereon for securement to various conventional broom head designs for universal attachment of the various broom heads to the handle described herein.
A handle grip 36 is provided adjacent the first stop mechanism 26 fixed at the first open end 18 of the main shaft 16. The handle grip 36 is accordingly fixed in relation to the main shaft so that the handle grip can be adjustable in spacing relative to the broom head at the lower free end 30 of the broom by slidably adjusting the position of the first telescoping shaft within the main shaft.
The handle grip 36 generally comprises a rigid support member projecting generally radially outwardly from a front side of the main shaft at a slight downward incline towards the broom head. The handle grip is covered with suitable padded and ergonomically shaped material to conform to the shape of a person's hand comfortably and locates the button 28 for releasing the first stop mechanism at a free end thereof.
an elongate support arm;
first and second mounting arms supported at spaced positions on the support arm; and first and second mounting clips supported on the first and second mounting arms respectively at an equal spacing from the support arm;
each mounting clip comprising a clamping member for clamping engagement onto the handle of the curling broom.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
In the accompanying drawings, which illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present invention:
Figure 1 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of the curling broom.
Figure 2 is a side elevational view of the broom according to Figure 1.
Figure 3 illustrates an alternate embodiment of the curling broom in which the main shaft includes a fixed grip opposite the broom head.
Figure 4 is an exploded front perspective view illustrating an optional universal mounting plate for securement to an end of the telescoping shaft for mounting various broom head configurations thereon.
Figure 5 is a perspective view of an auxiliary handle arranged to be supported on the telescoping shaft supporting the broom head thereon.
Figure 6 is a side elevational view of a support member arranged to be supported on an end of the handle opposite the broom head.
Figures 7 and 8 are respective side elevational and end views of a supporting device which is optionally used with the handle of a curling broom.
Figures 9 and 10 are front perspective views of an alternate embodiment of a coupling between the main shaft and one telescoping shaft in respective connected and disassembled positions.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Referring to the accompanying drawings, there is illustrated a curling broom generally indicated by reference numeral 10. The broom generally includes a handle 12 and a broom head 14 similarly to conventional curling brooms for sweeping in the sport of curling.
The handle 12 generally includes a main shaft 16 which is elongate and tubular, extending in a longitudinal direction between a first open end 18 and a second open end 20. The main shaft is preferably formed of a rigid lightweight material which is hollow in construction between respective first and second open ends thereof.
The handle further includes a first telescoping shaft 22 which is slidably received within the first open end 18 of the main shaft. The telescoping shaft 22 is similarly tubular in construction, being formed of light rigid material. The first telescoping shaft is suitably sized so that an outer diameter thereof approximately equals the inner diameter of the main shaft to be snugly yet slidably received therein for movement between a retracted position with a majority of the telescoping shaft 22 being received within the main shaft and an extended position in which the majority of the first telescoping shaft extends outwardly beyond the main shaft. At least a portion of the first telescoping shaft and the main shaft remain overlapping in the extended position as illustrated in dotted line in Figure 1. The first telescoping shaft 22 includes a plurality of spaced apart apertures 24 which are evenly spaced in the longitudinal direction of the shaft, in longitudinal alignment along one side of the shaft.
A first stop mechanism 26 in the form of a conventional releasable pin lock is provided for selectively protruding into a selected one of the apertures 24 in the first telescoping shaft. The first stop mechanism includes a button 28 to activate release of the pin lock from the selected one of the apertures 24. When engaged, the pin lock of the first stop mechanism 26 restricts sliding movement of the first telescoping shaft 22 relative to the main shaft 16 in both directions.
Furthermore the pin lock is biased towards a locking position when the button 28 is not activated for automatic locking similarly to conventional pin locking configurations.
The lower free end of the first telescoping shaft 22 includes a broom head mount 32 secured thereon. The broom head mount 32 generally comprises a portion of the shaft 22 which is narrower in diameter and suitably arranged for selective coupling with an adapter mounting plate 34. The adapter plate 34 includes suitable mounting connections thereon for securement to various conventional broom head designs for universal attachment of the various broom heads to the handle described herein.
A handle grip 36 is provided adjacent the first stop mechanism 26 fixed at the first open end 18 of the main shaft 16. The handle grip 36 is accordingly fixed in relation to the main shaft so that the handle grip can be adjustable in spacing relative to the broom head at the lower free end 30 of the broom by slidably adjusting the position of the first telescoping shaft within the main shaft.
The handle grip 36 generally comprises a rigid support member projecting generally radially outwardly from a front side of the main shaft at a slight downward incline towards the broom head. The handle grip is covered with suitable padded and ergonomically shaped material to conform to the shape of a person's hand comfortably and locates the button 28 for releasing the first stop mechanism at a free end thereof.
A second telescoping shaft 38 is provided which is similarly tubular and rigid in construction for being slidably received within the open second end 20 of the main shaft 16. Similarly to the first telescoping shaft, the second telescoping shaft includes an outer diameter which closely approximates the inner diameter of the hollow main shaft 16 to permit sliding movement of the second telescoping shaft relative to the main shaft. A plurality of longitudinally spaced apertures 40 are similarly provided in the second telescoping shaft.
A second stop mechanism 42 is also provided which is fixed on the main shaft adjacent the second open end 20 thereof. The second stop mechanism 42 similarly includes a button 44 to selectively release a conventional type pin lock which is received within a selected one of the apertures 40 in the second telescoping shaft.
An upper free end 46 of the second telescoping shaft includes a padded support member 48 mounted thereon. The padded support member 48 includes an arcuate, curved surface which ergonomically fits against a shoulder or within an armpit of a user of the broom to comfortably apply pressure to the end of the broom by leaning thereon. The support member 48 is a surface which is substantially broader than the cross section of the shaft and is positioned to lie transversely to the longitudinal direction of the shaft. The support member 48 also may include a rigid internal structure with suitable resilient padding for comfort thereon. In this arrangement the support member 48 is movable with the second telescoping shaft relative to the main shaft for adjusting both a position of the support member relative to the main shaft as well as for adjusting an overall length of the broom handle.
Turning now to Figure 3, a further embodiment of the second end 20 of the main shaft 16 of the broom handle is illustrated. In this arrangement, the second _7_ end of the main shaft is closed with a handle grip 60 being formed thereon which is fixed in relation to the main shaft. Accordingly no second telescoping shaft is provided and overall length of the broom is determined solely by adjustment of the first telescoping shaft 22 within the main shaft 16.
As shown in Figure 4, the lower free end 30 of the first telescoping shaft 22 is illustrated in further detail in which the portion of reduced diameter at the lower free end of the first telescoping shaft is clearly shown for being received within the broom head mount 32 which includes a suitable socket 34 for securely receiving the portion of reduced diameter of the first telescoping shaft 22 therein.
Turning now to Figure 5, an alternate embodiment of the handle grip 36 is illustrated in which the grip is supported on a sliding carrier 64 in the form of a collar snugly yet slidably received along the first telescoping shaft 22. A
conventional pin lock assembly, with button release, is supported on the slide carrier 64 for engagement with one of the apertures in the first telescoping shaft so that a position of the handle may be adjusted or the carrier may be fully removed from the first telescoping shaft when the pin lock assembly is released. The particular configuration of the handle grip is arranged to ergonomically be supported in a persons hand similarly to the handle grip of the first embodiment.
The support member 48 may comprise a removable pad supported on a suitable socket grip 66 for selective mounting on the upper free end 46 of the first telescoping shaft as illustrated in Figure 6.
Turning now to Figures 7 and 8, a delivery aid and supporting device 70 is illustrated for connection to a broom handle of the type described herein or any other type of conventional broom handle by use of a quick release attachment.
The device includes a support arm 72 comprising an elongate member which is straight in a longitudinal direction of the member but curved in profile to provide an _ $ _ ergonomic contour. A semi-circular profile is ideal for mating engagement alongside a broom handle which is round in cross section. First and second mounting arms are mounted on the support arm 72 spaced apart at opposite ends thereof to project outwardly from the support arm perpendicularly thereto within a generally common plane. First and second mounting clips 76 are mounted at the free ends of the first and second mounting arms 74 respectively. Distance of each mounting clip 76 from the support arm 72 is identical so that a handle mounted within the clips 76 lies parallel and spaced apart from the support arm 72. Each mounting clip 76 generally comprises a C-shaped channel which is somewhat resilient to permit snap on mounting of the clips onto the circular cross section of a broom handle. Each mounting arm 74 includes hinges at the clips 76, at the support arm 72 and also partway therebetween so as to permit the mounting arms 74 to be folded in half when mounted onto a broom handle at which point the support arm 72 lies alongside the broom handle directly adjacent thereto.
Turning now to Figures 9 and 10, in a further embodiment of the broom handle, the main shaft 16 includes a main portion 80 and a collar 82 secured at one end thereof to project outwardly in a longitudinal direction from the main portion of the shaft. A telescoping shaft 84 is slidably received with the collar 82 of the main shaft and abuts against an internal shoulder formed partway within the collar by the end of the main portion 80 which terminates partway into the collar. Sliding movement of the telescoping shaft 84 within the collar 82 of the main shaft thus stops when the telescoping shaft abuts the end of the main portion 80 of the main shaft to restrict sliding movement in one direction only of the telescoping shaft relative to the main shaft. The collar is suitably arranged for a snug fit with the telescoping shaft while still permitting sliding removal of the telescoping shaft from the collar as illustrated in Figure 10. Both the telescoping shaft 84 and the main _g_ shaft are hollow and include a pin 86 spanning diametrically across the shaft at a position spaced inwardly from the end which mates with opposing shaft. On the main shaft, the pin 86 is spaced inwardly from the end of the main portion 80 of the shaft within the collar 82. A resilient elastic cord 88 is coupled between the two pins 86 to resiliently secure the telescoping shaft within the collar of the main shaft as illustrated in Figure 9 which permits ready separation thereof simply by stretching the elastic cord 88.
As noted herein various improvements to conventional curling broom handles are disclosed. In preferred embodiments the handle grips and the support member at the end of the handle are preferably formed of a soft rubber material for gripping. The shafts may be formed of any suitable material, for example graphite or aluminium. Lightweight plastic components would typically be used for the stop mechanisms. Any of the couplings or stop mechanism may alternatively be coated with a rubber gripping material as well.
The various features of the broom handle disclosed herein may be used alone or in combination as described above. The delivery supporting device 70 for instance may be used with conventional broom handles or with a handle having telescoping shafts as described herein. In either embodiment first and second mounting clips would be provided for securement to the handle.
Optionally hinges 90 may be provided for coupling the mounting arms 74 onto the support arm 72 to permit folding collapsing of the device when not in use.
As noted above, the present invention possesses features which facilitate, or make easier, transportation, storage, and handling of the broom. It also has features which allow for more efficient and effective use on the curling ice.
The broom handle has several features and variations. In its simplest form, the broom handle retracts from the bottom end (brush head end) by means of a telescoping shaft and spring and pin locking mechanism. One shaft of smaller circumference is allowed to slide within the main tube. Desired length is achieved by inserting the pin through the appropriate hole in the sliding shaft. This adjustment allows for optimum length of the broom handle in relation to height of the user. This, in turn, allows the userlsweeper to apply a greater portion of body weight (by using shoulder area to exert pressure on the upper end of the handle) to increase effectiveness of the brush head on the ice surface. In theory, the greater the pressure or friction of the brush on the ice surface, the further the curling rock wilt travel as the friction of the brush head causes a slight melting of the pebbled ice surface and thus allows the curling rock/stone to travel farther.
Another version of the handle allows for a second locking mechanism fixed on the top of a main tube with another telescoping shaft operatinglsliding in and out on the top end. This adjustment will allow for precise distance between the user's shoulder and their bottom (pressure) hand. Conversely, this second locking mechanism can be an adjustable one located on the bottom, sliding shaft to provide the same adjustable distance between shoulder and bottom hand.
The bottom locking mechanism in either version will have an optional handle grip locking mechanism made of a soft pliable plastic or rubber. This will provide another method to apply additional weight to the brush head, with less stress to the wrist. It would be ergonomically formed to the hand and will be at an angle comfortable to the wrist.
The bottom end of the bottom shaft has a tapered end to accept various brush heads already on the market. To make it universal, it will come with an adapter plate to fit many other brush heads.
The upper end of the curling broom can have a pad installed for engagement with a shoulder or arm pit of a user, which will distribute the pressure of the handle end on the user's shoulder, meaning greater comfort. It will be made of soft, pliable, spongy material and will automatically form to the sweeper's shoulder as pressure is applied.
Another option for this (and other) broom handles is an attachable delivery aid or delivery supporting device as shown in Figures 7 and 8. This aids the curler when he/she is in the process of delivering their stone down the ice.
It allows the curler to maintain a more upright and balanced position through the delivery process. It is made of a semi-circular tubing (fiberglass, resin, etc...), slightly larger than broom handle. This enables it to fold into the handle and become unobtrusive during sweeping motion. It is attached to the handle by slightly pliable plastic "C"
clips, snapping it into position and which permit it to be attached to any type of curling broom handle. Aluminum rods with hinges allow the delivery aid to snap-and-lock open or fold away.
Another version of broom is a coupler as shown in Figures 9 and 10 which enables the broom handle to come apart in the middle for easy handling, transportation, and storage. In this version, the broom handle is constructed of a hollow material, for example aluminum, fibreglass, graphite, resin etc. It is in two pieces. The pieces are held together by a spring or stretchable elastic material (such as bungee cord, or tarp strap). Attached to one end is a fixed coupler.
When in use, one end fits into the end of the coupler, giving it a rigid, snug fit for sweeping.
When storing or transporting, handle is simply pulled apart and doubled-up as per Figure 10.
In further embodiments, the pin lock mechanisms described above may be replaced with twist lock mechanisms commonly found on various telescoping poles which permit one section to be fixed longitudinally relative to another by relative rotation of the sections about the longitudinal axis thereof.
While various embodiments of the present invention have been described in the foregoing, it is to be understood that other embodiments are possible within the scope of the invention. The invention is to be considered limited solely by the scope of the appended claims.
A second stop mechanism 42 is also provided which is fixed on the main shaft adjacent the second open end 20 thereof. The second stop mechanism 42 similarly includes a button 44 to selectively release a conventional type pin lock which is received within a selected one of the apertures 40 in the second telescoping shaft.
An upper free end 46 of the second telescoping shaft includes a padded support member 48 mounted thereon. The padded support member 48 includes an arcuate, curved surface which ergonomically fits against a shoulder or within an armpit of a user of the broom to comfortably apply pressure to the end of the broom by leaning thereon. The support member 48 is a surface which is substantially broader than the cross section of the shaft and is positioned to lie transversely to the longitudinal direction of the shaft. The support member 48 also may include a rigid internal structure with suitable resilient padding for comfort thereon. In this arrangement the support member 48 is movable with the second telescoping shaft relative to the main shaft for adjusting both a position of the support member relative to the main shaft as well as for adjusting an overall length of the broom handle.
Turning now to Figure 3, a further embodiment of the second end 20 of the main shaft 16 of the broom handle is illustrated. In this arrangement, the second _7_ end of the main shaft is closed with a handle grip 60 being formed thereon which is fixed in relation to the main shaft. Accordingly no second telescoping shaft is provided and overall length of the broom is determined solely by adjustment of the first telescoping shaft 22 within the main shaft 16.
As shown in Figure 4, the lower free end 30 of the first telescoping shaft 22 is illustrated in further detail in which the portion of reduced diameter at the lower free end of the first telescoping shaft is clearly shown for being received within the broom head mount 32 which includes a suitable socket 34 for securely receiving the portion of reduced diameter of the first telescoping shaft 22 therein.
Turning now to Figure 5, an alternate embodiment of the handle grip 36 is illustrated in which the grip is supported on a sliding carrier 64 in the form of a collar snugly yet slidably received along the first telescoping shaft 22. A
conventional pin lock assembly, with button release, is supported on the slide carrier 64 for engagement with one of the apertures in the first telescoping shaft so that a position of the handle may be adjusted or the carrier may be fully removed from the first telescoping shaft when the pin lock assembly is released. The particular configuration of the handle grip is arranged to ergonomically be supported in a persons hand similarly to the handle grip of the first embodiment.
The support member 48 may comprise a removable pad supported on a suitable socket grip 66 for selective mounting on the upper free end 46 of the first telescoping shaft as illustrated in Figure 6.
Turning now to Figures 7 and 8, a delivery aid and supporting device 70 is illustrated for connection to a broom handle of the type described herein or any other type of conventional broom handle by use of a quick release attachment.
The device includes a support arm 72 comprising an elongate member which is straight in a longitudinal direction of the member but curved in profile to provide an _ $ _ ergonomic contour. A semi-circular profile is ideal for mating engagement alongside a broom handle which is round in cross section. First and second mounting arms are mounted on the support arm 72 spaced apart at opposite ends thereof to project outwardly from the support arm perpendicularly thereto within a generally common plane. First and second mounting clips 76 are mounted at the free ends of the first and second mounting arms 74 respectively. Distance of each mounting clip 76 from the support arm 72 is identical so that a handle mounted within the clips 76 lies parallel and spaced apart from the support arm 72. Each mounting clip 76 generally comprises a C-shaped channel which is somewhat resilient to permit snap on mounting of the clips onto the circular cross section of a broom handle. Each mounting arm 74 includes hinges at the clips 76, at the support arm 72 and also partway therebetween so as to permit the mounting arms 74 to be folded in half when mounted onto a broom handle at which point the support arm 72 lies alongside the broom handle directly adjacent thereto.
Turning now to Figures 9 and 10, in a further embodiment of the broom handle, the main shaft 16 includes a main portion 80 and a collar 82 secured at one end thereof to project outwardly in a longitudinal direction from the main portion of the shaft. A telescoping shaft 84 is slidably received with the collar 82 of the main shaft and abuts against an internal shoulder formed partway within the collar by the end of the main portion 80 which terminates partway into the collar. Sliding movement of the telescoping shaft 84 within the collar 82 of the main shaft thus stops when the telescoping shaft abuts the end of the main portion 80 of the main shaft to restrict sliding movement in one direction only of the telescoping shaft relative to the main shaft. The collar is suitably arranged for a snug fit with the telescoping shaft while still permitting sliding removal of the telescoping shaft from the collar as illustrated in Figure 10. Both the telescoping shaft 84 and the main _g_ shaft are hollow and include a pin 86 spanning diametrically across the shaft at a position spaced inwardly from the end which mates with opposing shaft. On the main shaft, the pin 86 is spaced inwardly from the end of the main portion 80 of the shaft within the collar 82. A resilient elastic cord 88 is coupled between the two pins 86 to resiliently secure the telescoping shaft within the collar of the main shaft as illustrated in Figure 9 which permits ready separation thereof simply by stretching the elastic cord 88.
As noted herein various improvements to conventional curling broom handles are disclosed. In preferred embodiments the handle grips and the support member at the end of the handle are preferably formed of a soft rubber material for gripping. The shafts may be formed of any suitable material, for example graphite or aluminium. Lightweight plastic components would typically be used for the stop mechanisms. Any of the couplings or stop mechanism may alternatively be coated with a rubber gripping material as well.
The various features of the broom handle disclosed herein may be used alone or in combination as described above. The delivery supporting device 70 for instance may be used with conventional broom handles or with a handle having telescoping shafts as described herein. In either embodiment first and second mounting clips would be provided for securement to the handle.
Optionally hinges 90 may be provided for coupling the mounting arms 74 onto the support arm 72 to permit folding collapsing of the device when not in use.
As noted above, the present invention possesses features which facilitate, or make easier, transportation, storage, and handling of the broom. It also has features which allow for more efficient and effective use on the curling ice.
The broom handle has several features and variations. In its simplest form, the broom handle retracts from the bottom end (brush head end) by means of a telescoping shaft and spring and pin locking mechanism. One shaft of smaller circumference is allowed to slide within the main tube. Desired length is achieved by inserting the pin through the appropriate hole in the sliding shaft. This adjustment allows for optimum length of the broom handle in relation to height of the user. This, in turn, allows the userlsweeper to apply a greater portion of body weight (by using shoulder area to exert pressure on the upper end of the handle) to increase effectiveness of the brush head on the ice surface. In theory, the greater the pressure or friction of the brush on the ice surface, the further the curling rock wilt travel as the friction of the brush head causes a slight melting of the pebbled ice surface and thus allows the curling rock/stone to travel farther.
Another version of the handle allows for a second locking mechanism fixed on the top of a main tube with another telescoping shaft operatinglsliding in and out on the top end. This adjustment will allow for precise distance between the user's shoulder and their bottom (pressure) hand. Conversely, this second locking mechanism can be an adjustable one located on the bottom, sliding shaft to provide the same adjustable distance between shoulder and bottom hand.
The bottom locking mechanism in either version will have an optional handle grip locking mechanism made of a soft pliable plastic or rubber. This will provide another method to apply additional weight to the brush head, with less stress to the wrist. It would be ergonomically formed to the hand and will be at an angle comfortable to the wrist.
The bottom end of the bottom shaft has a tapered end to accept various brush heads already on the market. To make it universal, it will come with an adapter plate to fit many other brush heads.
The upper end of the curling broom can have a pad installed for engagement with a shoulder or arm pit of a user, which will distribute the pressure of the handle end on the user's shoulder, meaning greater comfort. It will be made of soft, pliable, spongy material and will automatically form to the sweeper's shoulder as pressure is applied.
Another option for this (and other) broom handles is an attachable delivery aid or delivery supporting device as shown in Figures 7 and 8. This aids the curler when he/she is in the process of delivering their stone down the ice.
It allows the curler to maintain a more upright and balanced position through the delivery process. It is made of a semi-circular tubing (fiberglass, resin, etc...), slightly larger than broom handle. This enables it to fold into the handle and become unobtrusive during sweeping motion. It is attached to the handle by slightly pliable plastic "C"
clips, snapping it into position and which permit it to be attached to any type of curling broom handle. Aluminum rods with hinges allow the delivery aid to snap-and-lock open or fold away.
Another version of broom is a coupler as shown in Figures 9 and 10 which enables the broom handle to come apart in the middle for easy handling, transportation, and storage. In this version, the broom handle is constructed of a hollow material, for example aluminum, fibreglass, graphite, resin etc. It is in two pieces. The pieces are held together by a spring or stretchable elastic material (such as bungee cord, or tarp strap). Attached to one end is a fixed coupler.
When in use, one end fits into the end of the coupler, giving it a rigid, snug fit for sweeping.
When storing or transporting, handle is simply pulled apart and doubled-up as per Figure 10.
In further embodiments, the pin lock mechanisms described above may be replaced with twist lock mechanisms commonly found on various telescoping poles which permit one section to be fixed longitudinally relative to another by relative rotation of the sections about the longitudinal axis thereof.
While various embodiments of the present invention have been described in the foregoing, it is to be understood that other embodiments are possible within the scope of the invention. The invention is to be considered limited solely by the scope of the appended claims.
Claims (12)
1. A curling broom comprising:
a main shaft;
at least one telescoping shaft mounted on the main shaft for relative sliding movement therebetween;
a broom head for mounting on an end of one of the shafts; and a stop mechanism for selectively restricting sliding movement of said at least one telescoping shaft in relation to the main shaft.
a main shaft;
at least one telescoping shaft mounted on the main shaft for relative sliding movement therebetween;
a broom head for mounting on an end of one of the shafts; and a stop mechanism for selectively restricting sliding movement of said at least one telescoping shaft in relation to the main shaft.
2. The broom according to Claim 1 wherein there is provided a handle grip supported on a different one of the shafts than the broom head.
3. The broom according to Claim 1 or 2 wherein the broom head is supported on said at least one telescoping shaft.
4. The broom according to any one of Claims 1 to 3 wherein the stop mechanism comprises a lock for positively restricting sliding movement in both direction when engaged at a plurality of spaced positions.
5. The broom according to any one of Claims 1 to 4 wherein said at least one telescoping shaft comprises a first telescoping shaft slidably received within the main shaft and supporting the broom head thereon and a second telescoping shaft slidable with respect to the main shaft.
6. The broom according to Claim 5 wherein there is provided a resilient member supported on a free end of one of the shafts opposite the broom head, the resilient member lying transversely to a longitudinal direction of the shafts.
7. The broom according to Claim 5 wherein each of the telescoping shafts includes a stop mechanism for selectively restricting sliding movement of the respective telescoping shaft relative to an adjacent one of the shafts.
8. The broom according to any one of Claims 1 to 7 wherein there is provided a mounting member supported on the end of one of the shafts for selectively mounting various configurations of conventional broom heads thereon.
9. The broom according to Claim 1 wherein there is provided a resilient member coupled between the shafts to connect the shafts when the telescoping shaft is slidably removed from the main shaft.
10. The broom according to Claim 9 wherein the stop mechanism restricts sliding of the telescoping shaft into the main shaft beyond a prescribed overlap.
11. The broom according to Claim 1 wherein there is provided a delivery supporting device comprising:
an elongate support arm;
first and second mounting arms supported at spaced positions on the support arm; and first and second mounting clips supported on the first and second mounting arms respectively at an equal spacing from the support arm;
each mounting clip comprising a clamping member for selective clamping engagement onto the shafts of the curling broom.
an elongate support arm;
first and second mounting arms supported at spaced positions on the support arm; and first and second mounting clips supported on the first and second mounting arms respectively at an equal spacing from the support arm;
each mounting clip comprising a clamping member for selective clamping engagement onto the shafts of the curling broom.
12. A delivery supporting device for use with a curling broom having an elongate handle, the device comprising:
an elongate support arm;
first and second mounting arms supported at spaced positions on the support arm; and first and second mounting clips supported on the first and second mounting arms respectively at an equal spacing from the support arm;
each mounting clip comprising a clamping member for clamping engagement onto the handle of the curling broom.
an elongate support arm;
first and second mounting arms supported at spaced positions on the support arm; and first and second mounting clips supported on the first and second mounting arms respectively at an equal spacing from the support arm;
each mounting clip comprising a clamping member for clamping engagement onto the handle of the curling broom.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US44469503P | 2003-02-04 | 2003-02-04 | |
| US60/444,695 | 2003-02-04 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2455173A1 true CA2455173A1 (en) | 2004-08-04 |
Family
ID=32850910
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2455173 Pending CA2455173A1 (en) | 2003-02-04 | 2004-01-14 | Curling broom |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2455173A1 (en) |
Cited By (3)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN109011454A (en) * | 2018-10-09 | 2018-12-18 | 上海永玺环境科技有限公司 | Wheelchair curling push rod |
| WO2019095044A1 (en) * | 2017-11-14 | 2019-05-23 | Lyons Rose Ann | Portable curling-broom |
| WO2021041698A1 (en) | 2019-08-27 | 2021-03-04 | Barnaal Erik | Ergonomic lateral manual sweeping device |
-
2004
- 2004-01-14 CA CA 2455173 patent/CA2455173A1/en active Pending
Cited By (5)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO2019095044A1 (en) * | 2017-11-14 | 2019-05-23 | Lyons Rose Ann | Portable curling-broom |
| CN109011454A (en) * | 2018-10-09 | 2018-12-18 | 上海永玺环境科技有限公司 | Wheelchair curling push rod |
| WO2021041698A1 (en) | 2019-08-27 | 2021-03-04 | Barnaal Erik | Ergonomic lateral manual sweeping device |
| EP4021244A4 (en) * | 2019-08-27 | 2022-10-19 | Barnaal, Erik | Ergonomic lateral manual sweeping device |
| US11731257B2 (en) | 2019-08-27 | 2023-08-22 | Erik P. Barnaal | Ergonomic lateral manual sweeping device |
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| EEER | Examination request |