EP0938355B1 - Independent suspension system for in-line skates - Google Patents
Independent suspension system for in-line skates Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP0938355B1 EP0938355B1 EP97942404A EP97942404A EP0938355B1 EP 0938355 B1 EP0938355 B1 EP 0938355B1 EP 97942404 A EP97942404 A EP 97942404A EP 97942404 A EP97942404 A EP 97942404A EP 0938355 B1 EP0938355 B1 EP 0938355B1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- wheels
- boot
- wheel
- biasing means
- tracking system
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired - Lifetime
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Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63C—SKATES; SKIS; ROLLER SKATES; DESIGN OR LAYOUT OF COURTS, RINKS OR THE LIKE
- A63C17/00—Roller skates; Skate-boards
- A63C17/0046—Roller skates; Skate-boards with shock absorption or suspension system
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63C—SKATES; SKIS; ROLLER SKATES; DESIGN OR LAYOUT OF COURTS, RINKS OR THE LIKE
- A63C17/00—Roller skates; Skate-boards
- A63C17/04—Roller skates; Skate-boards with wheels arranged otherwise than in two pairs
- A63C17/06—Roller skates; Skate-boards with wheels arranged otherwise than in two pairs single-track type
- A63C17/061—Roller skates; Skate-boards with wheels arranged otherwise than in two pairs single-track type with relative movement of sub-parts on the chassis
- A63C17/062—Roller skates; Skate-boards with wheels arranged otherwise than in two pairs single-track type with relative movement of sub-parts on the chassis with a pivotal frame or cradle around transversal axis for relative movements of the wheels
Definitions
- the invention relates to in-line skates, and, in particular, to an independent suspension system to attach the wheels of an in-line skate to the skate's boot where the suspension system allows the wheels to move individually relative to the ground and the boot.
- In-line skates have become very popular recreational and sporting equipment. They have essentially replaced regular roller-skates, and are used by speed skaters and ice-hockey players for dry-land activities. Many individuals and families use them for outings and exercise.
- in-line skates are used outside on sidewalks and other road surfaces. These surfaces are generally not flat and have bumps, ridges and holes. The uneven surfaces can cause stress on the wheels, boots and other structural elements of the skate as well as discomfortable for the skater. Often, the uneven surfaces can be treacherous for riding.
- Prior art document DE-A-654 100 discloses a skate with two wheels in line. The wheels are independently suspended in an arcuate movement against the action of a biasing means.
- Prior art document US-A-5 085 445 discloses an in-line skate with a tracking system and channel and a suspension system wherein the wheel suspension movement is linear.
- the purpose of the present invention is to overcome the limitations of the prior art and to develop a suspension system for an in-line skate that improves the ride of the skate.
- the invention is an in-line skate according to claim 1. It includes mechanism that allow the wheels to move relative to the boot of the skate so that when the wheels encounter uneven surfaces the wheels move individually and independently to overcome the uneven surface thereby providing a smoother ride. This arrangement reduces the impact and stress on the boot and, therefore, the impact and stress on the person using the skates.
- the suspension mechanism can be arranged so that the wheels can move in a dual action movement in more than one place.
- the suspension mechanism which allow the wheels to move relative to the boot, includes a biasing means that absorbs the shock when the wheels encounter the uneven surface and an attachment mechanism to connect the wheels to the boot.
- the biasing means can include a spring, flexible plastic or metal, or another type of energy absorbing system.
- the wheels are rotatably attached to a tracking system, which is, in turn, attached to the sole of the boot.
- the present invention fits within the confines of the tracking system of a traditional in-line skate.
- the suspension mechanism is designed so that the dimensions of the skate, such as clearance from the ground, are not modified considerably. It is also desirable to design the suspension mechanism and the tracking system so that parts can be easily replaced.
- FIG. 1 illustrates an in-line skate 10 that includes a suspension mechanism 12.
- the in-line skate 10 includes a boot 14 that is configured to hold and support the foot of the wearer.
- the boot includes a sole 16 that has a tracking system 18 attached to it.
- the tracking system 18 is made of any suitable material and is typically made of aluminum.
- the tracking system 18 has a series of wheels 20 rotatably attached to it so that the wheels form a line.
- the wheel 20 can be rotatably attached to the tracking system 18 using axles 22.
- the wheels 20 are connected to the tracking system using a suspension mechanism 12.
- the suspension mechanism 12 allows the wheels 20 to move individually and independently relative to the boot 14 so that the in-line skate 10 can move smoothly over an uneven surface.
- Figs 2-4 shows one embodiment of the suspension mechanism 12.
- the suspension mechanism 12 includes an attachment mechanism 35.
- the attachment mechanism 35 is movably connected at one end to the tracking system 18 by a pin 37.
- the other end of the attachment mechanism 35 has the wheel rotatably attached to it by an axle 22.
- the attachment mechanism 35 is angled in between the tracking end and the wheel 20 end so that when the wheel hits an uneven surface the suspension mechanism pivots about the pin 37 in an arcuate path. This arrangement reduces the shock created by an uneven surface to the boot 14.
- Each wheel 20 in the in-line skate 10 is connected to the tracking system 18 in a similar manner. Thus each wheel 20 can move individually and independently of the others relative to the boot.
- the suspension mechanism 18 includes a biasing means 39 to absorb the pressure when the wheel 20 encounters an uneven surface and to hold the wheel in place.
- biasing means 39 can be a typical spring. Of course, any type of biasing means can be used such as flexible plastic, polyurethane, metal or another type of energy absorbing system.
- the biasing means 39 is connected between the tracking system 18 and the center portion of the attachment mechanism 35. The biasing means 39 is biased so that the wheel 20 is held in place during normal operation of the in-line skate 10 and absorbs the shock of the wheel 20 when the wheel 20 encounters an uneven surface.
- the biasing means 39 can also be biased to relieve the pressure on the boot 14 when the wheels 20 encounter the surface during the natural skating motion.
- Figs. 5-7 illustrate an embodiment of the suspension mechanism 12 of the in-line skate of the present invention.
- This embodiment includes an attachment mechanism 35 that has a arcuate-shape.
- the attachment mechanism is connected to the tracking system 18 at a point between the ends by a pin 37.
- One end of the attachment mechanism 35 is connected to a biasing means 39 which is engaged to the tracking system 18.
- the tracking system 18 also includes a channel 41 to position the attachment mechanism 35.
- the wheel 20 is rotatably connected to the other end of the attachment mechanism by an axle 22. In this arrangement the attachment mechanism 35 pivots about the pin 37 when the wheel encounters an uneven surface.
- the biasing means 39 is biased to absorb the shock and movement of the attachment mechanism.
- biasing means 39 When the biasing means 39 returns the channel 41 positions the attachment mechanism 35 and wheel 20 to its original position.
- the biasing means 39 can also be configured to absorb the shock of the wheels encountering a surface during the skating motion of the user.
- another sort of biasing means 39 other than a spring shown can be used.
- Figs. 8-9 illustrate yet another embodiment of the suspension mechanism 12 where the wheels 20 move in a vertical pattern when they encounter uneven surfaces.
- the attachment mechanism 35 includes a channel 45 portion that is rigidly connected to the tracking system at its closed end.
- the open end of the channel includes ribs 43 that are perpendicular to the sides 49 of the channel 45.
- a mating member 51 is movably engaged at one end into the channel of its upper end.
- the ribs 47 of the channel 45 hold the mating member 51 within the channel 45.
- the other end of the mating member is rigidly connected to a u-shaped bracket 53.
- the wheel 20 is rotatably connected to the bracket by an axle 22.
- Within the chamber 45 formed by the channel and mating member a biasing means 39 is positioned.
- the biasing means 39 can be any sort of energy absorbing system such as a spring or flexible material and be within the scope of the invention.
- the biasing means 39 is biased so that the wheel 20, bracket 53 and mating member 51 move vertically when the wheel 20 encounters an uneven surface.
- the biasing means 39 can also be configured to absorb the shock achieved when the Wheels engage a surface during a normal skating motion.
- Figs. 10-12 illustrates a suspension system where the wheels 20 pivot in an arcuate pattern.
- the attachment mechanism 35 includes a u-shaped end 55 that is connected to the wheel by an axle 22.
- the attachment mechanism 35 connects to the tracking system 18 by an arm 57 extending from a side of the u-shaped end 55.
- the arm 57 includes a series of holes 59 that are used to connect the attachment mechanism to the tracking system 18 by a screw 61.
- the different holes 59 in the arm adjusts the flexibility of the arm 59.
- a pin 63 is provided at the upper side of the u-shaped end 55 and fits into a hole 59 in the tracking system 18.
- the pin 63 provide stability for the attachment mechanism 35.
- When the wheel 20 encounters an uneven surface the arm flexes so that the wheel moves in an path while the pin 63 provide guidance and rigidity.
- the amount of shock absorbed by the attachment mechanism 35 depends on which hole the screw 61 is placed.
- Fig. 13-16 illustrate a suspension system where the wheels 20 move in a vertical pattern when they encounter uneven surfaces.
- the attachment mechanism 35 includes an upper portion 70 that connects to the tracking system 18 and a lower portion 72 that connects to the wheel 20.
- the upper portion 20 includes a plate 74, which has a number of holes 76. From the opposing edges of the plate, side arms 78 extend perpendicularly. Screws (not shown) are placed through the holes 76 to attach the suspension mechanism 12 to the tracking system 18.
- the lower portion 72 has a generally C-shaped cross-section that surrounds the wheel 20.
- the upper portion 70 and lower portion 72 are connected to one another by bars 80 and 82.
- Bars 80 and 82 connect one side of the C-shaped lower portion 72 to the arms 78 of the upper portion.
- Bars 80 and 82 are used on each side of the suspension mechanism 10 so that the wheels 20 move in a vertical pattern when they encounter uneven surfaces.
- the bars 80 are connected to the lower and upper portion by pins 84 so that the bars 80 can rotate about the pins 82.
- One of the pins 84 can serve as an axle for the wheels 20.
- the embodiment shown in FIGS. 13-16 includes a biasing means 39 that is biased between the plate 74 and the lower portion 72.
- the biasing means 39 is configured to absorb the shock and movement of the attachment mechanism and to permit the lower portion 72 to move vertically relative the upper portion 70 when the wheel 20 encounters an uneven surface.
- the biasing means 39 can also be configured to absorb the shock achieved when the wheels engage a surface during a normal skating motion.
- the embodiment of the suspension mechanism 10 shown in FIGS 13-16 includes a stopping mechanism 86 that limits the vertical movement of the lower portion 72 relative the upper portion 70.
- the stopping mechanism 86 is formed from the arms 78 and the lower bars 82. At the lower end of each arm 78 a portion of the side is removed so that each arm 78 is L-shaped. The bars 82 are connected together by a bridge 86. This bridge 86 fits into the removed portion of the arms so that the bridge stops the movement of the of the lower portion 72 when it encounters the edge of the upper portion 78.
- the stopping mechanism 86 and the biasing means 39 work together to limit the motion of the wheel 20 when it encounters uneven surfaces. All embodiments of the present invention can include a stopping mechanism similar to the stopping mechanism 86 shown.
- FIGS. 17-19 illustrate a suspension system and provide a suspension mechanism 12 that has dual action movement so that the wheels 22 can move individually and independently in more than one direction.
- the tracking system 18 includes a series of channels 92.
- the attachment mechanism 35 includes a live axle 94, which is shown in FIG. 18.
- the top end 96 of the live axle 94 connects to the upper surface of channel 92 and is supported by first biasing means 98 at either side.
- the first biasing means 98 also connects into the end walls of the channel 92.
- the opposite end of the live axle 92 includes a rod 100 and between the rod 100 and the top end 96 is a wedge 102.
- the attachment mechanism 35 in this embodiment also includes a first arm 104 and a second arm 106.
- the first and second arms 104, 106 are both connected at one end to the rod 100 so that the arms rotate about the rod 100.
- the wheels are connected to the other end of the arms 104, 106 by axles 38.
- a second biasing means 108 can be configured between the arms 104, 106 and the wedge 102 to absorb the movement of the arms as they rotate about the rod 100 when the wheels engage on an uneven riding surface.
- wheels 20 connected to arms 104 and 106 move in a clockwise and counter-clockwise arcuate path, respectively, about the rod 100.
- the wheels can also move in a path relative to the top end 96, such that the top end 96 engages the first biasing means 98 to absorb the shock when the wheels 20 encounter an uneven surface.
- Both the first and second biasing means 98 and 108 are configured to keep the wheels in one position in the steady state.
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- Footwear And Its Accessory, Manufacturing Method And Apparatuses (AREA)
- Vehicle Body Suspensions (AREA)
- Axle Suspensions And Sidecars For Cycles (AREA)
- Rolling Contact Bearings (AREA)
Abstract
Description
- The invention relates to in-line skates, and, in particular, to an independent suspension system to attach the wheels of an in-line skate to the skate's boot where the suspension system allows the wheels to move individually relative to the ground and the boot.
- In-line skates have become very popular recreational and sporting equipment. They have essentially replaced regular roller-skates, and are used by speed skaters and ice-hockey players for dry-land activities. Many individuals and families use them for outings and exercise.
- In general, in-line skates are used outside on sidewalks and other road surfaces. These surfaces are generally not flat and have bumps, ridges and holes. The uneven surfaces can cause stress on the wheels, boots and other structural elements of the skate as well as discomfortable for the skater. Often, the uneven surfaces can be treacherous for riding.
- In the past, systems and mechanisms have been developed to assist in the breaking and steering of in-line skates. In addition, systems have been developed to improve the ride of the in-line skates. Some of these systems include a mechanism for the wheels to move relative to the boot, but they do not necessarily provide an adequate mechanism to improve the suspension of the in-line skate so that the skate will absorb the shocks caused on the skate by uneven riding surfaces.
- Prior art document
DE-A-654 100 discloses a skate with two wheels in line. The wheels are independently suspended in an arcuate movement against the action of a biasing means. - Prior art document
US-A-5 085 445 discloses an in-line skate with a tracking system and channel and a suspension system wherein the wheel suspension movement is linear. - The purpose of the present invention is to overcome the limitations of the prior art and to develop a suspension system for an in-line skate that improves the ride of the skate. The invention is an in-line skate according to claim 1. It includes mechanism that allow the wheels to move relative to the boot of the skate so that when the wheels encounter uneven surfaces the wheels move individually and independently to overcome the uneven surface thereby providing a smoother ride. This arrangement reduces the impact and stress on the boot and, therefore, the impact and stress on the person using the skates. The suspension mechanism can be arranged so that the wheels can move in a dual action movement in more than one place.
- The suspension mechanism, which allow the wheels to move relative to the boot, includes a biasing means that absorbs the shock when the wheels encounter the uneven surface and an attachment mechanism to connect the wheels to the boot. The biasing means can include a spring, flexible plastic or metal, or another type of energy absorbing system. In a typical in-line skate, the wheels are rotatably attached to a tracking system, which is, in turn, attached to the sole of the boot. In order to simplify the design of the suspension system, the present invention fits within the confines of the tracking system of a traditional in-line skate. Furthermore, the suspension mechanism is designed so that the dimensions of the skate, such as clearance from the ground, are not modified considerably. It is also desirable to design the suspension mechanism and the tracking system so that parts can be easily replaced.
-
- FIG. 1 shows an in-line skate, different from the invention, including a boot, tracking system, wheels and a suspension mechanism;
- FIG. 2 is a fragmentary view of suspension mechanism illustrated in FIG. 1;
- FIG. 3 is a cross sectional view of the suspension mechanism taken along the line 2-2 in FIG. 2;
- FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the wheel and attachment means of the suspension mechanism shown in FIG. 2;
- FIG. 5 is a fragmented side view of an embodiment of the in-line skate according to the present invention;
- FIG. 6 is a cross sectional view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 5 taken along the line 6-6.
- FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the wheel and attachment means of the suspension mechanism shown in FIG. 5;
- FIG. 8 is a fragmented side of yet a suspension mechanism different from the one of the present invention;
- FIG. 9 is a front view of the suspension mechanism shown in FIG. 8;
- FIG. 10 is a fragmented side view of still another suspension mechanism different from the one of the present invention;
- FIG. 11 is a front view of the suspension mechanism shown in FIG. 10;
- FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the wheel and attachment means of the suspension mechanism shown in FIG. 10;
- FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a further suspension mechanism different from the one of the present invention;
- FIG. 14 is a front view of the suspension mechanism shown in FIG 13;
- FIG. 15 is a rear view of the suspension mechanism shown in FIG 13;
- FIG. 16 is a side view of the attachment mechanism shown in FIG 13;
- FIG. 17 is a side view of yet another suspension mechanism different from the one of the present invention and includes a partial cut-away view;
- FIG. 18 is a top view of the suspension mechanism shown in FIG. 17; and
- FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a portion of the attachment mechanism for the suspension mechanism shown in FIG. 17.
- FIG. 1 illustrates an in-
line skate 10 that includes asuspension mechanism 12. The in-line skate 10 includes aboot 14 that is configured to hold and support the foot of the wearer. The boot includes a sole 16 that has atracking system 18 attached to it. Thetracking system 18 is made of any suitable material and is typically made of aluminum. Thetracking system 18 has a series ofwheels 20 rotatably attached to it so that the wheels form a line. In a traditional in-line skate 10, thewheel 20 can be rotatably attached to thetracking system 18 usingaxles 22. For the present invention, however, thewheels 20 are connected to the tracking system using asuspension mechanism 12. Thesuspension mechanism 12 allows thewheels 20 to move individually and independently relative to theboot 14 so that the in-line skate 10 can move smoothly over an uneven surface. - Figs 2-4 shows one embodiment of the
suspension mechanism 12. Thesuspension mechanism 12 includes anattachment mechanism 35. Theattachment mechanism 35 is movably connected at one end to thetracking system 18 by apin 37. The other end of theattachment mechanism 35 has the wheel rotatably attached to it by anaxle 22. Theattachment mechanism 35 is angled in between the tracking end and thewheel 20 end so that when the wheel hits an uneven surface the suspension mechanism pivots about thepin 37 in an arcuate path. This arrangement reduces the shock created by an uneven surface to theboot 14. Eachwheel 20 in the in-line skate 10 is connected to thetracking system 18 in a similar manner. Thus eachwheel 20 can move individually and independently of the others relative to the boot. - In the preferred embodiment of this embodiment, the
suspension mechanism 18 includes a biasing means 39 to absorb the pressure when thewheel 20 encounters an uneven surface and to hold the wheel in place. As seen in the figures, biasing means 39 can be a typical spring. Of course, any type of biasing means can be used such as flexible plastic, polyurethane, metal or another type of energy absorbing system. The biasing means 39 is connected between the trackingsystem 18 and the center portion of theattachment mechanism 35. The biasing means 39 is biased so that thewheel 20 is held in place during normal operation of the in-line skate 10 and absorbs the shock of thewheel 20 when thewheel 20 encounters an uneven surface. The biasing means 39 can also be biased to relieve the pressure on theboot 14 when thewheels 20 encounter the surface during the natural skating motion. - Figs. 5-7 illustrate an embodiment of the
suspension mechanism 12 of the in-line skate of the present invention. This embodiment includes anattachment mechanism 35 that has a arcuate-shape. The attachment mechanism is connected to thetracking system 18 at a point between the ends by apin 37. One end of theattachment mechanism 35 is connected to a biasing means 39 which is engaged to thetracking system 18. Thetracking system 18 also includes achannel 41 to position theattachment mechanism 35. Thewheel 20 is rotatably connected to the other end of the attachment mechanism by anaxle 22. In this arrangement theattachment mechanism 35 pivots about thepin 37 when the wheel encounters an uneven surface. The biasing means 39 is biased to absorb the shock and movement of the attachment mechanism. When the biasing means 39 returns thechannel 41 positions theattachment mechanism 35 andwheel 20 to its original position. The biasing means 39 can also be configured to absorb the shock of the wheels encountering a surface during the skating motion of the user. Of course, another sort of biasing means 39 other than a spring shown can be used. - Figs. 8-9 illustrate yet another embodiment of the
suspension mechanism 12 where thewheels 20 move in a vertical pattern when they encounter uneven surfaces. Theattachment mechanism 35 includes achannel 45 portion that is rigidly connected to the tracking system at its closed end. The open end of the channel includes ribs 43 that are perpendicular to thesides 49 of thechannel 45. Amating member 51 is movably engaged at one end into the channel of its upper end. Theribs 47 of thechannel 45 hold themating member 51 within thechannel 45. The other end of the mating member is rigidly connected to au-shaped bracket 53. Thewheel 20 is rotatably connected to the bracket by anaxle 22. Within thechamber 45 formed by the channel and mating member a biasing means 39 is positioned. As seen in the figures, the biasing means 39 can be any sort of energy absorbing system such as a spring or flexible material and be within the scope of the invention. The biasing means 39 is biased so that thewheel 20,bracket 53 andmating member 51 move vertically when thewheel 20 encounters an uneven surface. The biasing means 39 can also be configured to absorb the shock achieved when the Wheels engage a surface during a normal skating motion. - Figs. 10-12 illustrates a suspension system where the
wheels 20 pivot in an arcuate pattern. Theattachment mechanism 35 includes au-shaped end 55 that is connected to the wheel by anaxle 22. Theattachment mechanism 35 connects to thetracking system 18 by anarm 57 extending from a side of theu-shaped end 55. Thearm 57 includes a series ofholes 59 that are used to connect the attachment mechanism to thetracking system 18 by ascrew 61. Thedifferent holes 59 in the arm adjusts the flexibility of thearm 59. Apin 63 is provided at the upper side of theu-shaped end 55 and fits into ahole 59 in thetracking system 18. Thepin 63 provide stability for theattachment mechanism 35. When thewheel 20 encounters an uneven surface the arm flexes so that the wheel moves in an path while thepin 63 provide guidance and rigidity. The amount of shock absorbed by theattachment mechanism 35 depends on which hole thescrew 61 is placed. - Fig. 13-16 illustrate a suspension system where the
wheels 20 move in a vertical pattern when they encounter uneven surfaces. Theattachment mechanism 35 includes anupper portion 70 that connects to thetracking system 18 and alower portion 72 that connects to thewheel 20. Theupper portion 20 includes aplate 74, which has a number ofholes 76. From the opposing edges of the plate,side arms 78 extend perpendicularly. Screws (not shown) are placed through theholes 76 to attach thesuspension mechanism 12 to thetracking system 18. - The
lower portion 72 has a generally C-shaped cross-section that surrounds thewheel 20. Theupper portion 70 andlower portion 72 are connected to one another bybars Bars lower portion 72 to thearms 78 of the upper portion.Bars suspension mechanism 10 so that thewheels 20 move in a vertical pattern when they encounter uneven surfaces. Thebars 80 are connected to the lower and upper portion bypins 84 so that thebars 80 can rotate about thepins 82. One of thepins 84 can serve as an axle for thewheels 20. - The embodiment shown in FIGS. 13-16 includes a biasing means 39 that is biased between the
plate 74 and thelower portion 72. The biasing means 39 is configured to absorb the shock and movement of the attachment mechanism and to permit thelower portion 72 to move vertically relative theupper portion 70 when thewheel 20 encounters an uneven surface. The biasing means 39 can also be configured to absorb the shock achieved when the wheels engage a surface during a normal skating motion. - The embodiment of the
suspension mechanism 10 shown in FIGS 13-16 includes a stoppingmechanism 86 that limits the vertical movement of thelower portion 72 relative theupper portion 70. The stoppingmechanism 86 is formed from thearms 78 and the lower bars 82. At the lower end of each arm 78 a portion of the side is removed so that eacharm 78 is L-shaped. Thebars 82 are connected together by abridge 86. Thisbridge 86 fits into the removed portion of the arms so that the bridge stops the movement of the of thelower portion 72 when it encounters the edge of theupper portion 78. The stoppingmechanism 86 and the biasing means 39 work together to limit the motion of thewheel 20 when it encounters uneven surfaces. All embodiments of the present invention can include a stopping mechanism similar to the stoppingmechanism 86 shown. - FIGS. 17-19 illustrate a suspension system and provide a
suspension mechanism 12 that has dual action movement so that thewheels 22 can move individually and independently in more than one direction. Thetracking system 18 includes a series ofchannels 92. Theattachment mechanism 35 includes alive axle 94, which is shown in FIG. 18. Thetop end 96 of thelive axle 94 connects to the upper surface ofchannel 92 and is supported by first biasing means 98 at either side. The first biasing means 98 also connects into the end walls of thechannel 92. The opposite end of thelive axle 92 includes arod 100 and between therod 100 and thetop end 96 is awedge 102. - The
attachment mechanism 35 in this embodiment also includes afirst arm 104 and asecond arm 106. The first andsecond arms rod 100 so that the arms rotate about therod 100. The wheels are connected to the other end of thearms arms wedge 102 to absorb the movement of the arms as they rotate about therod 100 when the wheels engage on an uneven riding surface. In this arrangement,wheels 20 connected toarms rod 100. According to the connection between the live axle and the tracking system, the wheels can also move in a path relative to thetop end 96, such that thetop end 96 engages the first biasing means 98 to absorb the shock when thewheels 20 encounter an uneven surface. Both the first and second biasing means 98 and 108 are configured to keep the wheels in one position in the steady state.
Claims (3)
- An in-line wheeled skate comprising:a boot (14);a tracking system (18) connected to the boot;a plurality of wheels (20);a suspension system (12) connected to the tracking system;the suspension system (12) for movably connecting each of the plurality of wheels (20) to the boot (14) so that each wheel moves independently relative to the bootwherein the suspension system includes a plurality of attachment mechanisms (35) to connect each wheel from the plurality of wheels to the boot and allows each wheel to move in an arcuate path, a biasing means (39) to control the arcuate movement of the attachment mechanism in one direction, characterized in that the suspension system includes a channel (41) to position the attachment mechanism (35) with respect to the suspension system (12).
- The in-line wheeled skate according to claim 1 wherein the biasing means (39) is composed of a polyurethane material.
- The in-line wheeled skate according to claim 1 wherein the biasing means (39) is biased against the tracking system (18).
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US2554596P | 1996-09-06 | 1996-09-06 | |
US25545P | 1996-09-06 | ||
PCT/US1997/015786 WO1998009691A1 (en) | 1996-09-06 | 1997-09-05 | Independent suspension system for in-line skates |
Publications (3)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP0938355A1 EP0938355A1 (en) | 1999-09-01 |
EP0938355A4 EP0938355A4 (en) | 2001-06-06 |
EP0938355B1 true EP0938355B1 (en) | 2007-06-27 |
Family
ID=21826710
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP97942404A Expired - Lifetime EP0938355B1 (en) | 1996-09-06 | 1997-09-05 | Independent suspension system for in-line skates |
Country Status (5)
Country | Link |
---|---|
EP (1) | EP0938355B1 (en) |
AT (1) | ATE365578T1 (en) |
DE (1) | DE69737865T2 (en) |
ES (1) | ES2289763T3 (en) |
WO (1) | WO1998009691A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (7)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US6543791B1 (en) | 1999-12-10 | 2003-04-08 | Elmer Lee | Axle shock absorber |
US7478803B2 (en) | 2000-11-17 | 2009-01-20 | Elmer C. Lee | Compact shock absorption, vibration, isolation, and suspension device |
US8251377B2 (en) | 2003-08-25 | 2012-08-28 | Green Brian J | Roller skate and wheel trucks therefor |
JP4652331B2 (en) * | 2003-08-25 | 2011-03-16 | トリスケート テクノロジー エルエルシー | Roller skates |
US8292308B2 (en) | 2009-11-16 | 2012-10-23 | Brian Green | Roller skate |
US8348284B2 (en) | 2009-11-16 | 2013-01-08 | Green Brian J | Roller skate |
US9056241B2 (en) | 2009-11-16 | 2015-06-16 | Cardiff Sport Technologies, Llc | Roller skate |
Family Cites Families (11)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US904270A (en) * | 1908-05-22 | 1908-11-17 | William W Pecht | Tongue-support. |
US2572133A (en) * | 1947-06-11 | 1951-10-23 | Thomas C Glenn | Roller skate truck construction |
US2644692A (en) * | 1951-05-28 | 1953-07-07 | Kahlert Ernest | Roller skate |
US4272090A (en) * | 1979-03-09 | 1981-06-09 | Wheat Ira N | Roller skate |
CA1120509A (en) * | 1980-02-05 | 1982-03-23 | Sophia Berta | Spring assisted roller skates |
US4402521A (en) * | 1980-10-20 | 1983-09-06 | Mongeon Douglas R | Roller skate plate assembly with floating axles |
US5085445A (en) * | 1991-03-11 | 1992-02-04 | Boyden Willis G | Skate cushioning device |
US5135244A (en) * | 1991-04-22 | 1992-08-04 | Wdrm Patent Co. | Suspension and braking system for a tandem wheeled skate |
US5342071A (en) * | 1993-05-06 | 1994-08-30 | Mike Soo | In-line roller skate brake assembly |
US5390958A (en) * | 1993-09-03 | 1995-02-21 | Soo; Mike | Track/roller skate |
IT1274288B (en) * | 1994-04-12 | 1997-07-17 | Roces Srl | BRAKING DEVICE STRUCTURE, PARTICULARLY FOR SKATES WITH IN-LINE WHEELS |
-
1997
- 1997-09-05 AT AT97942404T patent/ATE365578T1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 1997-09-05 EP EP97942404A patent/EP0938355B1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1997-09-05 DE DE69737865T patent/DE69737865T2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 1997-09-05 ES ES97942404T patent/ES2289763T3/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1997-09-05 WO PCT/US1997/015786 patent/WO1998009691A1/en active IP Right Grant
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
WO1998009691A1 (en) | 1998-03-12 |
DE69737865D1 (en) | 2007-08-09 |
ATE365578T1 (en) | 2007-07-15 |
EP0938355A1 (en) | 1999-09-01 |
DE69737865T2 (en) | 2008-02-28 |
ES2289763T3 (en) | 2008-02-01 |
EP0938355A4 (en) | 2001-06-06 |
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