FR3139442A1 - Stick puck system - Google Patents

Abstract

Title: Bat washer system The invention relates to a bat washer system comprising two washers (1, 2) configured to cooperate with each other, the first washer (1) comprising a connecting body (10 ) and a fixing means (102) to said stick, a first bearing face (11) peripheral to the connecting body (10), first assembly structures (12) on an external periphery (110) of the first face support (11), the second washer (2) comprising an opening (20) configured to accommodate the first washer (1), a second support face (21) peripheral to said opening (20), second structures assembly (22) on an internal periphery (210) of the second bearing face (21), intended to cooperate with the first assembly structures (12) of the first washer (1). Advantageously, the second assembly structures (22) of the second washer (2) are elastically deformable so that the second washer (2) assembles with the first washer (1) by elastic deformation of the second assembly structures ( 22). The invention also relates to a method of assembling this system. Figure for abstract: Fig. 6A

Description

Stick puck system

The present invention relates to the field of sports poles such as hiking or ski poles. Its application is particularly advantageous in assembling different washers, typically summer and winter washers, on a hiking pole in different assembly configurations.

STATE OF THE ART

Hiking poles are generally equipped with washers at their ends intended to come into contact with the ground. The main function of these washers is to provide support to limit the penetration of the stick into the ground. Depending on the nature of the ground, different washers can be considered. For example, in summer or on hard ground, the resistance to penetration of the tip of the stick is important. In this case, a washer with a small bearing surface is sufficient. A stick equipped with such a washer is lighter and has good maneuverability. In winter or on soft ground, the resistance to penetration of the tip of the stick is less. In this case, a larger bearing surface washer is necessary.

A traditional solution is to change washers depending on the seasons and/or conditions. This allows for two stick configurations. However, it is sometimes useful to have more configurations or more versatility in pole configurations, in particular to adapt the equipment more precisely to the conditions encountered locally or occasionally.

Document EP2083929 B1 discloses a system comprising a first articulated washer fixed to the stick, with a small bearing surface, on which a second washer can be fixed to increase the total bearing surface. The first washer thus remains permanently attached to the stick, and the second washer provides additional support surface if necessary. This configuration with an increased support surface is, however, not optimal for all snow conditions, particularly when the snow is soft and wet.

Document FR2686801 A1 discloses another solution making it possible to vary both the support surface and the support height, with respect to the tip of the stick. This known device comprises a first washer mounted in a low position on the pole and a second washer mounted in a high position on the pole and configured to deploy according to the degree of penetration of the pole in soft snow. The stick equipped with this device is therefore more versatile. A disadvantage of this solution is that it makes the stick heavier.

An object of the present invention is to overcome at least partly the disadvantages of known solutions.

Another object of the present invention is to propose an optimized washer system, offering possibilities of adaptation to different conditions and types of soil.

Another object of the present invention is to propose a method of using or assembling this system of washers.

The other objects, characteristics and advantages of the present invention will appear on examination of the following description and the accompanying drawings. It is understood that other benefits may be incorporated.

SUMMARY

To achieve this objective, a first aspect of the invention relates to a system of pucks for a stick, typically a hiking or ski pole, comprising a first washer and a second washer configured to cooperate with one another.

• Un corps de liaison comprenant :
  • un orifice apte à recevoir une extrémité d’un bâton, et
  • un moyen de fixation audit bâton,
• Une première face d’appui périphérique au corps de liaison et solidaire du corps de liaison,
• Des premières structures d’assemblage portées par la première face d’appui, lesdites premières structures d’assemblage s’étendant de préférence depuis un pourtour externe de la première face d’appui.

The first puck includes:

• A connecting body comprising:
  • an orifice capable of receiving one end of a stick, and
  • a means of fixing to said stick,
• A first support face peripheral to the connecting body and secured to the connecting body,
• First assembly structures carried by the first support face, said first assembly structures preferably extending from an external periphery of the first support face.

• Une ouverture configurée pour accueillir la première rondelle,
• Une deuxième face d’appui périphérique à ladite ouverture,
• Des deuxièmes structures d’assemblage portées par la deuxième face d’appui et destinées à coopérer avec les premières structures d’assemblage de la première rondelle, lesdites deuxièmes structures d’assemblage s’étendant de préférence depuis un pourtour interne de la deuxième face d’appui.

The second washer includes:

• An opening configured to accommodate the first washer,
• A second peripheral support face at said opening,
• Second assembly structures carried by the second support face and intended to cooperate with the first assembly structures of the first washer, said second assembly structures preferably extending from an internal periphery of the second face d 'support.

Advantageously, the second assembly structures of the second washer are elastically deformable so that the second washer assembles with the first washer by elastic deformation of the second assembly structures.

The second support face carries the second assembly structures preferably on its internal periphery. When the first and second washers are assembled, the second support face can therefore be seen as being elastically articulated with respect to the first support face, via said second assembly structures. When skiing, walking or running, the second support face thus has greater freedom of movement than the first support face. The movement and/or vibrations which are transmitted to the second support face advantageously make it possible to more easily release a soft or damp substrate, typically earth or soft and damp snow. In the solution disclosed by document EP2083929 B1, assembly by rotation-translation requires that the first and second washers are as rigid as each other, typically made of the same material. This prevents any freedom of movement of the second washer with respect to the first washer. In soft, wet snow conditions, snow tends to stick to hard surfaces. The increase in rigid surface increases the likelihood of snow sticking in such snowy conditions, and makes the tip of the pole even heavier. On the contrary, in the present invention, assembly by deformation is designed to offer efficient assembly while allowing a certain freedom of movement for the second support face. The washer system is thus optimized for different ground substrate conditions, particularly for soft and wet snow.

Preferably, the second assembly structures of the second washer have a flexibility strictly greater than that of the first assembly structures of the first washer. This way of designing a flexible assembly part – the second assembly structures – on a relatively more rigid part of the assembly – the first assembly structures – makes it possible both to make the assembly more reliable and to induce a possibility of deformation of the second support face with respect to the first support face.

Preferably, the second washer is made of a second material having a flexibility of between 40 and 70 shore A, while the first washer is made of a first material having a flexibility greater than or equal to 80 shore A.

According to one possibility, the first washer comprises a connecting body whose orifice preferably has a symmetry defining an axis of symmetry, referred to as a longitudinal axis. Preferably the connecting body is elongated along this longitudinal axis. This connecting body is for example frustoconical in shape. In this case, the means for attaching to the stick is advantageously located at a first end of the connecting body while the first bearing face is located at a second opposite end of the connecting body. The first support face and the fixing means are thus separated by a separation distance d along this longitudinal axis. This longitudinal offset between the fixing means and the first support face makes it possible to obtain two positions in height of the first support face with respect to the zone of attachment to the stick, by reversing the direction in which is placed the first puck on the stick, along the longitudinal axis. Thus, in the “summer” position for example, the first support face is relatively close to the ground, while in the “winter” position, the first support face is far from the ground. The “summer” and “winter” positions are separated by a distance 2d along the longitudinal axis. The depth of penetration into soft ground such as snow is thus increased. In addition to the increase in support surface linked to the addition of the second washer, the support of the stick on the soft ground is thus improved. This further increases the number of possible configurations for a stick equipped with such a puck system. The washer system advantageously allows skiing or hiking to be adapted according to the conditions encountered.

• Insérer le corps de liaison de la première rondelle dans l’ouverture de la deuxième rondelle,
• Déformer élastiquement les deuxièmes structures d’assemblage de la deuxième rondelle de façon à les assembler avec les premières structures d’assemblage de la première rondelle. Selon un exemple cet assemblage s’effectue en exerçant un effort radial et/ou axial relativement à un axe de symétrie de l’ouverture de la deuxième rondelle. L’effort est exercé de préférence à la fois radialement et axialement, relativement à l’axe de symétrie de l’ouverture de la deuxième rondelle.

Another aspect of the invention relates to a method of assembling a system of washers according to the first aspect of the invention, comprising:

• Insert the connecting body of the first washer into the opening of the second washer,
• Elastically deform the second assembly structures of the second washer so as to assemble them with the first assembly structures of the first washer. According to one example, this assembly is carried out by exerting a radial and/or axial force relative to an axis of symmetry of the opening of the second washer. The force is preferably exerted both radially and axially, relative to the axis of symmetry of the opening of the second washer.

The assembly of the first and second washers is advantageously done manually, typically by pulling radially and/or axially on the second washer to elastically deform the second assembly structures and fit them onto the first assembly structures.

A particular aspect of the invention relates to a hiking or ski pole equipped with a system of washers as described above.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

The aims, objects, as well as the characteristics and advantages of the invention will emerge better from the detailed description of embodiments of the latter which are illustrated by the following accompanying drawings in which:

Figures 1A and 1B illustrate in perspective a first washer according to one embodiment of the present invention.

There illustrates in longitudinal section a first washer according to one embodiment of the present invention.

Figures 2A and 2B illustrate in perspective a second washer according to one embodiment of the present invention.

There illustrates in longitudinal section a second washer according to one embodiment of the present invention.

Figures 3A and 3B illustrate in perspective a first washer and a second washer assembled according to one embodiment of the present invention.

There illustrates in longitudinal section a first washer and a second washer assembled according to one embodiment of the present invention.

There illustrates a tip tip according to one embodiment of the present invention.

There illustrates a damping element according to one embodiment of the present invention

There illustrates a damping element and a tip tip assembled according to one embodiment of the present invention.

There illustrates a first washer attached to a tip tip in a first position, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

There illustrates a first washer attached to a tip tip in a second position, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

Figures 6A and 6B illustrate first and second washers assembled together, the first washer being fixed to a tip tip in a second position, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

The drawings are given as examples and are not limiting to the invention. They constitute schematic representations of principle intended to facilitate the understanding of the invention and are not necessarily on the scale of practical applications. In particular, the dimensions of the different elements (first and second washers, end pieces, ends, etc.) may vary from the proportions illustrated on the principle diagrams.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Before beginning a detailed review of embodiments of the invention, the following are set out as optional characteristics which may possibly be used in combination or alternatively:

According to one example, the first support face extends along a plane transverse to a longitudinal axis of the stick when the connecting body is fixed to said stick. The first support face is not articulated with respect to the stick.

According to one example, when the second washer is assembled to the first washer and when the connecting body of the first washer is fixed to the stick, the second bearing face extends along a plane transverse to a longitudinal axis of the stick. At rest, that is to say without particular stress, the second support face typically extends the first support face.

According to one example, the second assembly structures deform radially around the opening, in directions of a plane transverse to an axis. This axis can be an axis of revolution or symmetry for the opening of the second washer, or even an axis of revolution or symmetry for the second washer. When the second washer is assembled to the first washer and when the connecting body of the first washer is fixed to the stick, this axis corresponds to the longitudinal axis of the stick.

According to one example, the second assembly structures deform axially, in directions parallel to the longitudinal axis of the stick. According to one example, the second assembly structures deform both axially and radially.

According to one example, the cooperation between the first and second assembly structures is such that, when the second assembly structures are elastically deformed to assemble the second washer with the first washer, an internal periphery of the second bearing face becomes moves beyond an external periphery of the first support face in a radial direction common to the first and second support faces, and, when the second assembly structures are assembled with the first assembly structures, the external periphery of the first support face extends beyond the internal periphery of the second support face, in the radial direction. There is at least one component of radial deformation during assembly by elastic deformation of the second washer on the first washer.

According to one example, the cooperation between the first and second assembly structures is such that, when the second assembly structures are elastically deformed to assemble the second washer with the first washer, the internal periphery of the second bearing face becomes moves beyond the external periphery of the first bearing face in an axial direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the stick, typically in a direction of engagement of the second washer on the first washer. There is at least one component of axial deformation during assembly by elastic deformation of the second washer on the first washer. During assembly, the axial strain component may be greater than the radial strain component. Typically, during the assembly by elastic deformation of the second assembly structures, said second assembly structures are brought beyond the first assembly structures, in axial and radial directions, then nested in the first assembly structures. assembly by releasing the deformation force. The deformation being elastic, the second assembly structures can substantially present their initial shape after assembly on the first assembly structures, that is to say in “assembled” configuration. According to one example, the shapes of the first and second assembly structures are complementary.

According to one example, the displacement of the internal periphery, during the elastic deformation of the second assembly structures to assemble the second washer with the first washer, has an amplitude of at least 3 mm, and preferably at least 5 mm, depending on the radial direction. This typically means that there is an overlap or overlap between the first and second assembly structures in assembled configuration, of at least 3 mm or more. The support provided by the first assembly structures to the second assembly structures, or vice versa, is thus sufficiently extended. This makes the assembly more reliable.

According to one example, the displacement of the internal periphery, during the elastic deformation of the second assembly structures to assemble the second washer with the first washer, has an amplitude of at least 3 mm, and preferably at least 5 mm, depending on the axial direction.

According to one example, the first washer is made of a first material and the second washer is made of a second material more flexible than the first material, said second material having a flexibility of between 40 and 70 shore A.

According to one example, some of the first and second assembly structures comprise lugs and the others among the first and second assembly structures comprise so-called upper portions and so-called lower portions, the upper portions being intended to cover said lugs. during assembly and the lower portions being intended to come to bear under said lugs during assembly. The lugs are thus sandwiched between the lower and upper portions. The assembly is thus made more reliable.

According to one example, the first assembly structures include lugs.

According to one example, the second assembly structures comprise the upper portions and the lower portions, said upper portions extending in continuity with the second supporting face, and the lower portions are configured to bear on the connecting body. The connecting body of the first washer thus forms a support for the lower portions of the second assembly structures of the second washer. The assembly is further improved.

According to one example, the lugs comprise housings and the lower portions comprise teeth, said teeth being configured to be housed in the housings of the lugs during assembly. The assembly is further improved. In particular, the teeth can be configured to limit or prevent a rotational movement of the second washer with respect to the first washer, around an axis passing through the center of the first and second washers.

According to one example, the second washer has a bearing surface at least twice greater, and preferably at least four times greater, than a bearing surface of the first washer. This significantly increases the total load-bearing surface of the system. The lift surface can be estimated by projection in a plane normal to an axis of symmetry or revolution of the washer considered. When the second washer is assembled to the first washer and when the connecting body of the first washer is fixed to the stick, this axis corresponds to the longitudinal axis of the stick.

According to one example, the second bearing face of the second washer comprises fins and slots in at least some of these fins, said slots being shaped to pass a finger of the user during assembly of the second washer on the first washer by elastic deformation of the second assembly structures. This makes it easier for the user to grip and manipulate with one finger when assembling the second washer onto the first washer. These lights can also lighten the second puck. They can also be used as housing for the tip of another pole, for example to store or transport a pair of poles.

According to one example, the connecting body of the first washer is elongated along a longitudinal axis and has a frustoconical shape with a first end of smaller section and a second end of larger section, and the means of attachment to the stick is located preferably at the level of the first end and the first support face is preferably located at the level of the second end, so that the first support face and the fixing means are separated by a non-zero separation distance d measured along the longitudinal axis. This makes it possible to introduce a height offset, along the longitudinal axis, between the fixing means and the first support face.

According to one example, the separation distance d is greater than 20 mm.

• une première position dans laquelle la première face d’appui est tournée vers une extrémité distale du bâton destinée à être en contact avec le sol, et selon
• une deuxième position dans laquelle la première face d’appui est retournée, vers une extrémité proximale du bâton opposée à l’extrémité distale selon l’axe longitudinal, ladite extrémité proximale étant destinée à portée une poignée.

According to one example, the first washer is configured to be fixed to the stick according to:

• a first position in which the first support face is turned towards a distal end of the stick intended to be in contact with the ground, and according to
• a second position in which the first support face is turned over, towards a proximal end of the stick opposite the distal end along the longitudinal axis, said proximal end being intended to carry a handle.

These two positions increase the number of possible configurations for a puck system fitted to a stick. In particular, the first position where the first support face is close to the ground can typically correspond to use on hard ground, for example on ice or hard snow, or more commonly on ground covered in dry conditions typically outside the winter season. This first position is therefore also called the “summer” position in the following. The second position where the first support face is away from the ground can typically correspond to use on soft ground, for example on snow. This second position is therefore also called the “winter” position in the following.

According to one example, the first support face has a first concavity and the second support face has a second concavity. According to one example, the first and second concavities are directed in opposite directions along the longitudinal axis when the first and second washers are assembled. The concavities thus face each other in assembled configuration. Mechanical forces along the longitudinal axis are better distributed across the washers. This improves the support of one washer by the other washer.

According to one example, in the second position of the first washer, the first concavity is directed towards the proximal end of the stick and said second concavity is directed towards the distal end of the stick when the first and second washers are assembled. In the winter position, the first washer is turned over so that the one of the first support face is oriented “upwards”, while the concavity of the second support face is oriented “downwards”, and the second support face partly covers the edges or first assembly structures of the first washer. This allows better support for the second puck.

• au moins un tube orienté selon un axe longitudinal,
• une poignée située au niveau d’une extrémité proximale de l’au moins un tube,
• une pointe située au niveau d’une extrémité distale de l’au moins un tube,
• une zone de fixation configurée pour coopérer avec le moyen de fixation de la première rondelle, la zone de fixation étant située du côté de l’extrémité distale.

According to one aspect, a hiking or ski pole is provided comprising a system of washers as described in the invention and comprising:

• at least one tube oriented along a longitudinal axis,
• a handle located at a proximal end of the at least one tube,
• a tip located at a distal end of the at least one tube,
• a fixing zone configured to cooperate with the fixing means of the first washer, the fixing zone being located on the side of the distal end.

• Insérer le corps de liaison de la première rondelle dans l’ouverture de la deuxième rondelle,
• Déformer les deuxièmes structures d’assemblage de la deuxième rondelle de façon à les assembler avec les premières structures d’assemblage de la première rondelle,
• Avant ou après assemblage de la deuxième rondelle, fixer la première rondelle au bâton selon la deuxième position.

According to one example, the method of assembling the first and second washers comprises:

• Insert the connecting body of the first washer into the opening of the second washer,
• Deform the second assembly structures of the second washer so as to assemble them with the first assembly structures of the first washer,
• Before or after assembling the second washer, attach the first washer to the stick in the second position.

The steps of the assembly or assembly process can typically be reversed so as to obtain a disassembly or disassembly process.

According to one example, all the steps of the assembly or disassembly process are carried out manually, that is to say without tools.

Unless incompatible, it is understood that all of the optional characteristics above can be combined so as to form an embodiment which is not necessarily illustrated or described. Such an embodiment is obviously not excluded from the invention. The features of one aspect of the invention, for example the system, the method or the stick, can be adapted mutatis mutandis to another aspect of the invention .

It is specified that, in the context of the present invention, the terms "on", "surmounts", "covers", "underlying", "vis-à-vis" and their equivalents do not necessarily mean "at the contact of”.

By an element “based” on a material A is meant an element comprising this material A only or this material A and possibly other materials, for example alloy elements. Thus, a carbon-based tube typically means a tube made from carbon fibers and a binder. An elastomer-based washer may include this elastomer alone or this elastomer with mineral fillers.

Several embodiments of the invention implementing successive stages of the assembly/disassembly process are described below. Unless explicitly stated, the adjective “successive” does not necessarily imply, even if this is generally preferred, that the stages follow each other immediately, with intermediate stages possibly separating them.

Furthermore, the term “step” means carrying out a part of the process, and can designate a set of sub-steps.

Furthermore, the term “step” does not necessarily mean that the actions carried out during a step are simultaneous or immediately successive. Certain actions of a first stage may in particular be followed by actions linked to a different stage, and other actions of the first stage may be resumed afterwards. Thus, the term step does not necessarily mean unitary and inseparable actions in time and in the sequence of phases of the process.

A preferably orthonormal reference frame, comprising the x, y, z axes is shown in the attached figures. When a single reference is represented on the same sheet of figures, this reference applies to all the figures on this sheet.

In the present patent application, the longitudinal axis is oriented along the z axis. The relative terms “over”, “over”, “under”, “underlying”, “intercalated” refer to positions taken in the z direction.

The terms “longitudinal”, “axial”, “vertical”, “vertically” refer to a direction along z. The terms “horizontal”, “horizontally”, “lateral”, “laterally”, “radial”, “radially” refer to a direction in a plane transverse to the z axis, typically in the xy plane.

In the context of the present invention, a tube is an elongated element, preferably hollow over at least half of its length. It has a preferably circular transverse section. Other shapes in transverse section are nevertheless perfectly possible.

The terms “tube” and “strand” are used synonymously. A “fixing means” may be a “fixing element”. A “means of restraint” may be a “restraint element”.

A particular application of the invention concerns a hiking pole. By hiking pole we mean more generally a pole for walking, for running in nature usually called "trail running", for ski touring or for any practice using a pole. The generic terminology “hiking pole” thus designates different types of poles, which can be more specifically dedicated to running, walking or skiing. A ski touring pole may in particular have tube sections greater than those of a racing pole, to stiffen the pole (the support force on the pole being typically greater when skiing than when skiing). the practice of running).

The washer system according to the present invention can advantageously have different configurations. When the two washers are assembled together, we will speak of an assembled configuration. When the first washer is attached to the stick, with or without the second washer, depending on the first position, we will speak of summer configuration. When the first washer is attached to the stick, with or without the second washer, depending on the second position, we will speak of a winter configuration.

In the context of the present invention, the second washer is typically at least partly more flexible than the first washer. The flexibility of a material, particularly the flexibility of an elastomer, can be characterized using a Shore scale. The main Shore scales are the Shore A (for soft materials) and Shore D (for hard materials), graduated from 1 to 100. The ranges of these two scales partially overlap. For example, a flexibility (or hardness) of 80 Shore A corresponds approximately to 30 Shore D.

The deformations of the parts of the second washer are typically generated by relative movements with respect to the first washer. For example, we will choose a frame of reference linked to the first washer during the assembly or disassembly phase of the washers together, to describe the forces, in particular the tensile forces, applied to the second washer.

The first and second washers have bearing surfaces corresponding substantially to the projected surfaces in the xy plane of the first and second bearing faces, respectively.

Figures 1A to 1C illustrate a first washer 1 according to a particular embodiment of the invention. As illustrated, the washer 1 comprises a connecting body 10 and a first bearing face 11 on the periphery of the connecting body 10. Preferably, at least certain parts of the washer 1 have a symmetry of revolution around an axis z called longitudinal axis z. Alternatively or in combination, certain parts of the washer 1 present an asymmetry. For example, the support face 11 is not necessarily circular. It can be written in a portion of a disk, for example in half a disk. Preferably, however, the support face 11 has a symmetry of revolution around the z axis, as illustrated in .

The support face 11 extends generally transversely to the longitudinal axis z. It is attached to the connecting body 10 at its internal periphery. The support face 11 is extended by first assembly structures 12 on its external periphery 110. These first assembly structures 12 may include lugs 121 and preferably housings 122. The lugs 121 provide the washer 1 with a good grip profile, when used alone on a hiking or ski pole, typically in summer configuration.

In this embodiment of the washer 1, the connecting body 10 is elongated along the longitudinal axis z and has a hollow frustoconical shape, forming an orifice 101. The orifice 101 makes it possible to accommodate the stick, typically at the level d a distal end of the stick comprising a point, called the point end. The connecting body 10 comprises a fixing means 102 configured to fix the washer 1 to the stick. This fixing means 102 can be in the form of a thread, preferably a thread having a quarter-turn type screw thread. Other fixing means 102 can be considered, such as grooves or more generally interlocking structures. However, screw fixing is typically more reliable than socket fixing. Screwing with a “quarter turn” screw thread makes the fixing operation to the stick faster than with a traditional screw thread.

The frustoconical connecting body 10 makes it possible to shift according to z the position of the support face 11 with respect to the fixing means 102, by a distance d ( ). This distance d is preferably greater than 20 mm, and preferably greater than 25 mm, and preferably of the order of 30 mm or even 35 mm. This offset makes it possible to obtain two positions in height of the support face 11 relative to the tip of the stick when the washer 1 is fixed to the stick in summer configuration or in winter configuration. A washer 1 formed according to this particular embodiment is called reversible washer in the following. Other first washers, the connecting body of which is not elongated or frustoconical, may also be suitable for implementing the system of washers according to the invention. A connecting body limited to the internal periphery of the first bearing face, without significant extension along z, is perfectly possible for the first washer 1.

The washer 1 is preferably formed from a plastic material, for example based on polypropylene loaded with mineral particles, or based on impact polyamide. The washer 1 thus has a hardness preferably greater than or equal to 50 Shore D, and preferably greater than or equal to 70 Shore D. This makes it possible to obtain good wear resistance for the washer 1. The durability of the washer 1 is important.

Figures 2A to 2C illustrate a second washer 2 according to one embodiment of the invention. As illustrated, the washer 2 comprises an opening 20 and a second bearing face 21 on the periphery of the opening 20. Preferably, at least certain parts of the washer 2 have a symmetry of revolution around the longitudinal axis z . Alternatively or in combination, certain parts of the washer 2 present an asymmetry.

For example, the support face 21 is not necessarily circular. It can be written in a portion of a disk, for example in half a disk. Preferably, however, the support face 21 fits into a disc around the z axis, as illustrated in .

The support face 21 extends generally transversely to the longitudinal axis z. It can have different shapes. As illustrated in Figures 2A, 2B, it may in particular comprise fins 211. At least some of these fins 211a may be provided with slots 212. As illustrated, the support face 21 may comprise six fins 211 and three slots 212 distributed within every other fin. The solid fins 211b increase the bearing surface of the bearing face 21. The solid fins 211b typically have a nominal flexibility, corresponding to the flexibility of the material in which these fins are formed. According to one possibility, reinforcing structures, for example ribs of different shapes, can be provided under the fins 211b to stiffen the fins 211b. The lift of the support face 21 is thus improved. According to one possibility, these reinforcing structures can be provided under the fins 211a. On the , reinforcing structures in the form of hexagonal ribs are illustrated.

The lights 212 typically increase the flexibility of the fins 211a. This makes it possible to increase the amplitude of a flexion-extension movement of the fins 211a, for example when the support face 21 is brought into contact with heavy and wet snow. This then improves snow clearance. The lights 212 can also be used to grip the washer 2. They can make it possible to reduce the weight of the washer 2.

The washer 2 is preferably formed from an elastomeric material, for example based on a thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer such as Elastollan ^® . The washer 2 thus has a flexibility preferably less than or equal to 70 Shore A, and preferably between 40 and 70 Shore A. This makes it possible to obtain significant elastic deformation under moderate effort.

The internal periphery 210 of the support face 21 carries second assembly structures 22. These second assembly structures 22 are configured to be assembled with the first assembly structures 12. The first and second assembly structures 12, 22 typically have complementary shapes, configured to fit into each other. The second assembly structures 22 may comprise upper portions 221 and lower portions 222. The lower portions 222 may be provided with teeth 223. The lower portions 222 may form a support structure intended to come against the connecting body of the first washer 1. In Figures 2A, 2B, this support structure is annular and joins the different lower portions 222.

The cooperation between the first and second assembly structures 12, 22, in particular between the different elements of these assembly structures (lugs, lower and upper portions, housings, annular structure, etc.), will be better understood with reference to Figures 3A, 3B , 3C illustrating the assembled configuration of the first and second washers 1, 2.

As illustrated in , in assembled configuration, the upper portions 221 of the second washer 2 cover the lugs 121 of the first washer 1 (not visible). The diameter of the internal periphery 210 of the support face 21 is typically less than the diameter of the external periphery 110 of the support face 11 (not visible). The diameter of the internal periphery 210 is for example less by at least 6 mm, and preferably at least 10 mm, than the diameter of the external periphery 110. This makes it possible to obtain a radial overlap of at least 3 mm, and preferably at least 5 mm between the two supporting faces 11, 21. The teeth 223 of the second washer 2 are housed in the housings 122 of the first washer 1. In particular, the teeth 223 are typically carried by the lower portions 222 of the second washer 2, and are housed in the housings 122 from below. This secures the assembly of the first and second washers 1, 2. The upper portions 221 and the lower portions 222 of the second assembly structures 22 are typically configured to grip the first assembly structures 12, respectively from above and from below. below.

As illustrated in , the lugs 121 of the first assembly structures 12 can form a support for the upper portions 221 of the second assembly structures 22. The lower portions 222 are here located under the lugs 121 and preferably come to bear on the connecting body 10. The assembly is thus made more reliable.

As illustrated in , in assembled configuration, the total bearing surface of the system of washers 1, 2 is significantly increased. The second support face 21 extends substantially in continuity and on the periphery of the first support face 11. In this figure in longitudinal section, the cooperation between the first and second assembly structures 12, 22 is clearly illustrated. In particular, the upper portions 221 cover the lugs 121, and the lower portions 222 come to bear under said lugs 121 and against the connecting body 10. In this embodiment, the first support face 11 has a first concavity oriented according to +z on the , and the second support face 21 has a second concavity oriented along -z on the . This configuration with opposite concavities makes it possible to improve the mechanical resistance of the assembly.

• présenter la première rondelle 1 de sorte que la concavité de la première face d’appui 11 soit orientée selon +z, c’est-à-dire vers le haut sur la ,
• présenter la deuxième rondelle 2 de sorte que la concavité de la deuxième face d’appui 21 soit orientée selon -z, c’est-à-dire vers le bas sur la ,
• insérer le corps de liaison 10 de la première rondelle 1 dans l’ouverture 20 de la deuxième rondelle 2, de sorte à amener les deuxièmes structures d’assemblage 22 sous les premières structures d’assemblage 12,
• aligner radialement les ergots 121 avec les ailettes 211, et de préférence les dents 223 avec les logements 122,
• déformer élastiquement les deuxièmes structures d’assemblage 22 en tirant successivement sur les ailettes 211 de la deuxième face d’appui 21, de sorte à passer les portions supérieures 221 au-dessus des ergots 121, la traction se faisant typiquement selon une direction radiale d’un plan transverse à la direction longitudinale z, et selon une direction axiale, c’est-à-dire parallèle à la direction longitudinale z.

To assemble the first and second washers 1, 2 as illustrated in these Figures 3A-3C, the assembly steps indicated below will preferably be carried out:

• present the first washer 1 so that the concavity of the first support face 11 is oriented along +z, that is to say upwards on the ,
• present the second washer 2 so that the concavity of the second support face 21 is oriented along -z, that is to say downwards on the ,
• insert the connecting body 10 of the first washer 1 into the opening 20 of the second washer 2, so as to bring the second assembly structures 22 under the first assembly structures 12,
• radially align the lugs 121 with the fins 211, and preferably the teeth 223 with the housings 122,
• elastically deform the second assembly structures 22 by successively pulling on the fins 211 of the second support face 21, so as to pass the upper portions 221 above the lugs 121, the traction typically being in a radial direction d 'a plane transverse to the longitudinal direction z, and in an axial direction, that is to say parallel to the longitudinal direction z.

• déformer élastiquement les deuxièmes structures d’assemblage 22 en tirant successivement sur les ailettes 211 de la deuxième face d’appui 21, de sorte à passer les portions supérieures 221 en dessous des ergots 121, la traction se faisant typiquement selon une direction radiale d’un plan transverse à la direction longitudinale z, et selon une direction axiale, c’est-à-dire parallèle à la direction longitudinale z,
• dégager le corps de liaison 10 de l’ouverture 20.

To disassemble the first and second washers 1, 2, the disassembly or disassembly steps indicated below will preferably be carried out:

• elastically deform the second assembly structures 22 by successively pulling on the fins 211 of the second support face 21, so as to pass the upper portions 221 below the lugs 121, the traction typically being in a radial direction of a plane transverse to the longitudinal direction z, and in an axial direction, that is to say parallel to the longitudinal direction z,
• release the connecting body 10 from the opening 20.

The system of washers 1, 2 is configured to cooperate with a distal end of a hiking pole. Such a distal end typically comprises a tip and preferably a damping element interposed between the tip and the stick. This damping element is typically configured to cushion or absorb the shocks suffered by the tip and attenuate or eliminate the transmission of these shocks in the stick.

There illustrates an example of end piece 3 intended to carry the tip of the stick. In this example, the end piece 3 comprises a body 30 elongated along z, the transverse section of which decreases towards the end 34 configured to receive the tip of the stick. The body 30 typically comprises two orifices 31 intended to receive retaining parts of the damping element. The body 30 also comprises a fixing zone 32 configured to cooperate with the fixing means 102 of the first washer 1. The fixing zone 32 can typically be in the form of a thread capable of cooperating with the tapping of the washer 1 The fixing zone 32 is typically located at a distance h from the end 34 in the longitudinal direction z, for example between 35 mm and 70 mm. The body 30 also preferably comprises an annular ring 33 intended to bear against a damping part of the damping element. The tip 3 is made of a hard plastic material, for example filled polypropylene.

There illustrates an example of a damping element 4 intended to cooperate with the tip 3 and with a hiking pole. In this example, the damping element 4 comprises a body 40 elongated along z and a damping part 42. The body 40 has a preferably beveled end 44, intended to be housed within the body 30 of the tip 3 The body 40 also preferably comprises retaining parts 41 projecting from the body 40, intended to be housed in the orifices 31 of the body 30. Complementary fixing means, for example screws 46, can be provided for the assembly of the body 40 with the body 30. The damping part 42 typically has an end 45 intended to accommodate a tube of the hiking pole, and an overhang 43 intended to come to bear on the annular ring 33 of the tip 3. The damping element 4 is typically made of a plastic material that is relatively more flexible than the material of the end piece 3.

There illustrates a tip 3 and a damping element 4 assembled. In this assembly configuration, the retaining parts 41 of the damping element 4 are engaged in the orifices 31 of the end piece 3, and the projection 43 of the damping part 42 rests against the annular ring 33 of the tip 3. In the following, the tip 3 and the damping element 4 assembled form a tip end of a hiking pole.

Figures 5A and 5B illustrate two mounting positions of a first reversible washer 1 on such a tip end of a hiking pole. In both cases, the fixing means 102 – typically the tapping 102 of the washer 1, cooperate with the fixing zone 32 – typically a thread, of the end piece 3. The two mounting positions differ by the mounting direction of the reversible washer 1 relative to the tip end of the stick.

As illustrated in , in a first position, according to a so-called summer configuration, the reversible washer 1 is mounted so that the first support face 11 is turned towards the end 34 of the end piece 3, intended to carry the tip of the stick. The concavity of the support face 11 is typically turned towards the end 34. In this summer configuration, the support face 11 is close to the ground when the stick is used. The bearing face is brought to a distance hd from end 34.

As illustrated in , in a second position, according to a so-called winter configuration, the reversible washer 1 is mounted so that the first support face 11 faces the side opposite the end 34 of the end piece 3, typically on the side of the end 45 of the damping element 4. The concavity of the support face 11 is typically turned towards the end 45. In this winter configuration, the support face 11 is relatively far from the ground when the stick is used. The support face 11 is brought to a distance h+d from the end 34.

Figures 6A and 6B illustrate a system of washers 1, 2 in assembled configuration, mounted in winter configuration on the tip end of the stick. Advantageously, the total support surface is both increased and moved away from the end 34. This typically makes it possible to deal with soft snow conditions. Other configurations not illustrated, for example the system of washers 1, 2 in assembled configuration mounted in summer configuration, are also possible.

The washer system according to the invention thus allows several configurations in combination with the tip end of a hiking or ski pole. This allows the equipment to be adapted according to the ground conditions encountered. The assembly between the first washer and the second washer by elastic deformation advantageously makes it possible to mount a second washer that is more flexible than the first washer, benefiting from the rigid support provided by the first washer secured to the stick. This typically allows you to cope with heavy snow conditions.

The invention is not limited to the embodiments previously described. In particular, different complementary shapes between the first and second assembly structures can be considered or implemented by those skilled in the art, without departing from the principle described in this application. Different shapes of washers and/or different concavities of washers may also be suitable.

Claims (18)

Baton washer system comprising a first washer (1) and a second washer (2) configured to cooperate with each other, the first washer (1) comprising:

• A connecting body (10) comprising
  • an orifice (101) capable of receiving one end of a stick, and
  • a means of fixing (102) to said stick,
• A first bearing face (11) peripheral to the connecting body (10) and secured to the connecting body (10),
• First assembly structures (12) carried by the first support face (11),

the second washer (2) comprising:

• An opening (20) configured to accommodate the first washer (1),
• A second bearing face (21) peripheral to said opening (20),
• Second assembly structures (22) carried by the second support face (21) and intended to cooperate with the first assembly structures (12) of the first washer (1),

The washer system being characterized in that the second assembly structures (22) of the second washer (2) are elastically deformable so that the second washer (2) assembles with the first washer (1) by elastic deformation second assembly structures (22). System according to the preceding claim in which the cooperation between the first and second assembly structures (12, 22) is such that, when the second assembly structures (22) are elastically deformed to assemble the second washer (2) with the first washer (1), an internal periphery (210) of the second support face (21) moves beyond an external periphery (110) of the first support face (11) in a radial direction ( y) common to the first and second bearing faces (11, 21), and, when the second assembly structures (22) are assembled with the first assembly structures (12), the external periphery (110) of the first support face (11) extends beyond the internal periphery (210) of the second support face (21), in the radial direction (y). System according to the preceding claim in which the displacement of the internal periphery, during the elastic deformation of the second assembly structures (22) to assemble the second washer (2) with the first washer (1), has an amplitude of at least 3 mm, and preferably at least 5 mm, in the radial direction. System according to any one of the preceding claims in which the cooperation between the first and second assembly structures (12, 22) is such that, when the second assembly structures (22) are elastically deformed to assemble the second washer ( 2) with the first washer (1), the internal periphery (210) of the second support face (21) moves beyond the external periphery (110) of the first support face (11) in a direction axial (z) substantially perpendicular to the first and second bearing faces (11, 21), in a direction of engagement of the second washer (2) on the first washer (1). System according to any one of the preceding claims in which the second assembly structures (22) of the second washer (2) have a flexibility strictly greater than that of the first assembly structures (12) of the first washer (1) . System according to any one of the preceding claims in which the first washer (1) is made of a first material and the second washer (2) is made of a second material more flexible than the first material, said second material having a flexibility of between 40 and 70 shore A. System according to any one of the preceding claims in which one of the first and second assembly structures (12, 22) comprises lugs (121) and in which the others among the first and second assembly structures (12, 22) comprise so-called upper portions (221) and so-called lower portions (222), the upper portions (221) being intended to cover said lugs (121) during assembly and the lower portions (222) being intended to come resting under said lugs (121) during assembly. System according to the preceding claim in which the second assembly structures (22) comprise the upper portions (221) and the lower portions (222), said upper portions (221) extending in continuity with the second support face ( 21), and in which the lower portions (222) are configured to bear on the connecting body (10). System according to any one of the two preceding claims in which the lugs (121) comprise housings (122) and the lower portions (221) comprise teeth (223), said teeth (223) being configured to be housed in the housings (122) of the lugs (121) during assembly. System according to any one of the preceding claims in which the second washer (2) has a bearing surface at least twice greater, and preferably at least four times greater, than a bearing surface of the first washer (1). System according to any one of the preceding claims in which the second bearing face (21) of the second washer (2) comprises fins (211, 211a, 211b) and slots (212) in at least some of these fins (211a), said lights (212) being shaped to pass a finger of the user during assembly of the second washer (2) on the first washer (1) by elastic deformation of the second assembly structures (22) . System according to any one of the preceding claims in which the connecting body (10) of the first washer (1) is elongated along a longitudinal axis (z) and has a frustoconical shape with a first end of smaller section and a second end of larger section, and in which the fixing means (102) to the stick is preferably located at the first end and the first supporting face (11) is preferably located at the second end, so that the first bearing face (11) and the fixing means (102) are separated by a non-zero separation distance d measured along the longitudinal axis (z). System according to the preceding claim in which the separation distance d is greater than 20 mm. System according to any one of the two preceding claims in which the first washer (1) is configured to be fixed to the stick according to:

• a first position in which the first support face (11) is turned towards a distal end of the stick intended to be in contact with the ground, and according to
• a second position in which the first bearing face (11) is turned over, towards a proximal end of the stick opposite the distal end along the longitudinal axis (z), said proximal end being intended to carry a handle.

System according to the preceding claim in which the first bearing face (11) has a first concavity and the second bearing face (21) has a second concavity, and in which, in the second position of the first washer (1) , said first concavity is directed towards the proximal end of the stick and said second concavity is directed towards the distal end of the stick when the first and second washers (1, 2) are assembled. Hiking or ski pole comprising a system of washers according to any one of the preceding claims and comprising:

• at least one tube oriented along a longitudinal axis (z),
• a handle located at a proximal end of the at least one tube,
• a tip located at a distal end of the at least one tube,
• a fixing zone (32) configured to cooperate with the fixing means (102) of the first washer (1), the fixing zone (32) being located on the side of the distal end.

Method of assembling the first and second washers (1, 2) of a system of washers according to any one of claims 1 to 15 comprising:

• Insert the connecting body (10) of the first washer (1) into the opening (20) of the second washer (2),
• Elastically deform the second assembly structures (22) of the second washer (2) so as to assemble them with the first assembly structures (12) of the first washer (1), preferably by exerting a radial force and/or or axial relative to an axis of symmetry of the opening (20) of the second washer (2).

Assembly method according to the preceding claim, for first and second washers (1, 2) of a system of washers according to any one of claims 14 or 15 further comprising:

• Before or after assembling the second washer (2), attach the first washer (1) to the stick in the second position.