WO2022200370A1

WO2022200370A1 - Interchangeable handle system, a ski or walking pole system and method for mounting a handle

Info

Publication number: WO2022200370A1
Application number: PCT/EP2022/057527
Authority: WO
Inventors: Pat LAM THORSTAD; Christian ERICHSEN
Original assignee: Brav Norway As
Priority date: 2021-03-23
Filing date: 2022-03-22
Publication date: 2022-09-29
Also published as: NO20210368A1

Abstract

The invention is directed to an interchangeable handle system for a ski or walking pole, the handle system comprising: - a base module; - a first top module connectable to the base module, wherein the first top module comprises a first strap connection system for connecting a hand strap to the first top module, wherein the first strap connection system is arranged in its entirety on the first top module; - a second top module connectable to the base module, wherein the second top module comprises a second strap connection system arranged in its entirety on the second top module; - an interlocking system for releasably connecting the first top module or the second top module to the base module; and wherein the second top module has one or more different structural, technical and/or mechanical properties in relation to the first top module.

Description

Interchangeable handle system, a ski or walking pole system and method for mounting a handle

Field of the invention

The present invention is directed to a modular handle system for a ski or walking pole where a first top module can be replaced by a second top module.

More specifically the invention is directed to an interchangeable handle system comprising a base module, a first top module and a second top module each comprising a strap connection system for connecting a hand strap to the base module of the handle. Each of the first and second top modules are adapted to be interchangeably mounted on the base module by an interlocking system. The invention is also directed to a ski or walking pole system comprising the interchangeable handle system as well as a method of mounting the handle.

Background of the invention

Poles are commonly used for alpine skiing, Nordic skiing, skate skiing, roller skiing, hiking, climbing, and snowshoeing. The poles are used for stability, balance, timing, and propulsion. Herein all such hand-held poles such as; walking poles, trekking poles, alpine ski poles, cross country ski poles, or Nordic Walking poles will be referred to as "ski poles," "pole," or "poles."

The pole includes a shaft with a handle arranged on the top end. The bottom end of the pole may include a point or other reduced portion end for grip on icy surfaces. The bottom end may also include a pad or other bumper for use on hard dry surfaces, such as asphalt. With a ski pole for winter sports, the end of the pole also includes a basket positioned a few inches (few centimeters) up from the tip. The basket is disc shaped or includes arms, rings, or other design to create some amount of resistance to being plunged deeply into snow. The basket may be attached so as to stay in place during use but may also be removable for replacement or to switch baskets for different purposes. For example, larger baskets may be used for powder skiing and smaller baskets for alpine racing.

Attached to the upper part of the pole is a grip section or handle with a strap. These are slipped over the wrist to improve the skiers’ hold on the grip and to prevent the loss of the pole in the event of a fall. Pole grips or handles are commonly constructed of injection- molded plastic, they may have different types of outer cover for easy and comfortable grip, such as cork, leather, fabric, etc. The grip or handles are hollow and sized to be fit onto the upper end of the pole shaft. The grip or handles are not made to be removed from the pole and are often glued to the pole shaft.

The handles often include hand straps through which the hand of the user is placed before grasping the grip. The purpose of the hand strap is to avoid an inadvertent loss of the pole and in order to transfer the strength of the hand of the user onto/into the pole. In addition, the hand straps help in keeping the poles with the user and help to obtain a solid grip over a longer period.

Hand straps are normally adjustable to various hand sizes as well as for the use with or without gloves, by variability of their length. In this sense, a plurality of possibilities exist to variably fasten hand straps to a pole handle. The straps are either fixed to the handle or they may be removable or releasable. Removable strap systems have been implemented by pole manufacturers as well, allowing the user to choose between different straps and sizes. In addition, the removable strap allows the strap to be replaced in case it is weared out, broken or damaged.

In the removable version, the handle comprises a locking system which allows the user to change between different sizes or designs of straps. The new strap needs to have complementary connection means to allow it to be connected to the handle.

If the user wants to change to a different strap with a different locking system, the entire handle needs to be removed from the pole and replaced by the new handle and strap. In such cases the diameter of the new handle needs to be the same as the one to be replaced, for allowing it to fit onto the shaft.

Furthermore, it is also very difficult to remove a handle which is glued onto a shaft. It is known that the glue can be heated using a heat gun in order to melt the glue and thus separate the handle from the shaft, but this method is very time consuming, might damage the handle, and is not always successful.

Very often in order to detach the handle from the shaft, the easiest and fastest way is by using a knife to cut away parts of the handle until it is completely removed from the shaft. Thereby also destroying the handle.

Another problem that may occur with prior art handles is when they are to be mounted and glued onto a shaft. The handle comprises a hollow body with an internal pocket having an abutting end, the internal pocket being adapted to receive the top end of the shaft and the shaft being preferably located such that it abuts the abutting end of the handle. However, this is not always easy when mounting prior art handles, since the internal pocket and the abutting end are not visible from the outside. When pulling the handle onto the top section of the shaft, the user may not always know whether the top end is completely received into the internal pocket and such that it abuts the abutting end. Handles that are not properly mounted will be exposed to damage and breakage during use.

The objective of the present invention is at least to solve some of the problems mentioned above with prior art solutions.

Thus, one objective of the present invention is to provide a system for easy changing of handles of a ski or walking pole.

Another objective of the present invention is to provide a handle system for a ski or walking pole with increased flexibility.

Yet another objective of the present invention is to provide a handle that ensures correct and proper mounting onto the shaft.

Summary of the invention

The invention is set forth and characterized in the independent claims, while the independent claims describe other characteristics of the invention. The invention is applicable for use with all hand-held poles such as: walking poles, rollerski poles, trekking poles, alpine ski poles, cross country ski poles and Nordic Walking poles.

The invention is directed to interchangeable or modular handle system for a ski or walking pole.

The handle system comprising;

- a base module,

- a first top module connectable to the base module, wherein the first top module comprises a first strap connection system for connecting a hand strap to the first top module, wherein the first strap connection system is arranged in its entirety on the first top module,

- a second top module connectable to the base module, wherein the second top module comprises a second strap connection system arranged in its entirety on the second top module;

- an interlocking system for releasably connecting any one of the first top module or the second top module to the base module;

- wherein the second top module has one or more different structural, technical and/or mechanical properties in relation to the first top module.

The terms “interchangeable” and “modular” will be used interchangeably throughout the application.

The interlocking system allows different first or second top modules to be connected to the base module of the handle, thus allowing increased flexibility for the user to choose between different top module systems.

The invention provides a modular system for easily changing handles of a pole such that different strap connecting systems can be used on one pole.

The invention provides a modular system for easily changing handles of a pole such that different handles having different structural, technical and/or mechanical properties can be used interchangeably.

The strap connection system refers to a system for securing a hand strap to the pole handle. The system may comprise one or more devices for attaching and holding the hand strap. The one or more devices may comprise a retainer locking device and/or a retainer, and wherein the retainer locking device can be any one of a; wedge system, hook system, abutting edges, screw, click system etc. The retainer locking device and the hand strap may comprise complementary fastening means for securing the hand strap to the retainer locking device and may also allow the hand strap to be adjusted while being attached to the retainer locking device.

The feature that the strap connection system forms part of the top module in its entirety is to be understood as that all parts of the strap connection system are arranged on the top module. This means the entire system for attaching and holding the hand strap is located on the top module.

The general term “top module” is in the entire application referred to a first and/or a second top module. The term “first and second top modules” and the term “top modules” will therefore be used interchangeably. The first and second top modules are different modules. I.e., as long as the first and second top modules have one or more different structural, technical and/or mechanical properties, they are different. The difference may be a different technical or mechanical property, such as different strap connection systems, different sensors, different trigger mechanisms, etc. Alternatively, or additionally, a different structural or mechanical property may be that the first top module is longer, shorter, thicker, thinner, stiffer, softer etc. relative to the second top module, or vice versa.

In one aspect, the second strap connection system has a different technical and/or mechanical property in relation to the first strap connection system. This means that the second strap connection system for attaching and holding the hand strap is different from the first strap connection system. Thus, the user may quickly and easily switch from one strap connection system to another.

The interchangeable handle system according to the present invention, provides also a positive impact on the environment compared to prior art solutions in that in the event of a pole breakage, the top module and strap connection system, which is often the most expensive parts of the handle, can be disconnected from the base module and reused onto another base module on a different ski pole, instead of being thrown together with the broken pole as with a plurality of today’s solutions.

The top modules may be made in plastic material, such as a recyclable plastic material or molded in composite materials.

The base module may be molded in plastic material or composite material.

Regardless of the shape, material or design of the base module, the first and second modules can be used interchangeably and even on different poles. This provides increased flexibility, saving cost for the user and increased ease of use. For example, when changing from classic skiing to skating, the skier needs to change to poles having increased lengths. With the modular handle system according to the present invention, the skier needs only one strap system and may use those interchangeably on the different length poles. Likewise, the user has the option to choose between different handles and strap connection systems to be used on the poles, by changing the top module.

The interchangeable handle system according to the present invention provides easier and less assembling and mounting at the factory. The pole shaft may be pre-mounted with the base module at the factory, and the user may choose between the first or second top module to be assembled onto the pole while in the retailer store. This allows “one base module” to be connected with different top modules according to the user's preferences. This provides increased flexibility and provides more options for the users by customizing.

For the makers or the factory, it will also be easier and more cost effective to only produce a top module when introducing new or special edition handles, instead of making a completely new handle which is limited to only one strap connection system.

The interlocking system may be a connection system providing a quick, easy and strong connection between the top module and the base module. The interlocking system may comprise a first locking part provided on the base module and a second locking part provided on the first and/or second top module. The second locking part may be complementary to the first locking part.

The interlocking system may be a sliding mechanism, screw, snap/click lock, wedge lock or cam lock or any combination thereof.

The interlocking system may be a sliding mechanism for sliding the top module onto the top of the base module, or the top module may slide over and cover the entire base module.

The sliding mechanism may comprise a recess/slot arranged on the first locking part, and adapted for receiving a protruding track arranged on the second locking part. The recess/slot is arranged to guide the protruding track such that the top module can slide along the recess/slot and into position on top or over the base module. According to the invention, the recess/slot can be located in any of the top module or in the base module, accordingly the protruding track may be located on the opposite top module or base module.

Within the scope of the invention, the top module may slide over and cover the entire or at least a section of the base module. In one embodiment, the top module may be mounted on top of the base module, and the base module may be a grip section of the modular handle system.

Thus, according to an aspect of the invention, the base module is a grip section.

While in position on top or onto the base module, the top module may be locked or retained into position by retaining means, such as a wedge, an abutting edge or a pin. The retaining means may be or may comprise a spring loaded device. The spring loaded device may be operable or activated by pressing, lifting, lowering and/or sliding.

A press button may be arranged on the top module, and connected to a spring loaded abutting edge. When the top module slides into position on/onto the base module, it may simultaneously press down the spring loaded abutting edge, such that when the top module is in position, the spring loaded abutting edge is released and goes into cooperation with an opening provided in the top module, thus restricting the movement of the top module. The spring loaded abutting edge may be operable by a press button or lever located on the top module for quick release and retraction of the spring loaded abutting edge, so that it is no longer engaging with the opening, and so that the top module can be disconnected.

The locking or retaining pin may be a pin that can be manually inserted into an opening through the top module and into the top of the base module (e.g. grip section).

In another embodiment, the interlocking system may be a screw locking and unlocking device. The system may comprise inner and outer screw threads arranged on the respective top module and grip section or on the top module and base module. This system provides an easy, quick and strong connection between the top module and base module (e.g. grip section). The screw device may also comprise a nut for holding the top module and secure to the base module by rotating the screw.

In yet another embodiment, the interlocking system may comprise a wedge locking system comprising a locking head and a recess for receiving the locking head, and wherein the locking head is retained in the recess by abutting edges provided on respective top module and base module (e.g. grip section). The system may comprise a recess and a first abutting edge arranged on the base module (e.g. grip section) and a locking head with a second abutting edge provided on the top module. The top module can be connected to the top of the base module (e.g. grip section) by inserting the locking head into the recess and locking the top module to the base module (e.g. grip section) by the first and second abutting edge abutting. The abutting edges may be released by a puller provided adjacent the abutting edges and arranged for lifting the second abutting edge provided on the top module and separate it from the first abutting edge, thereby releasing the locking head and such that the top module can be removed.

In another embodiment, the interlocking system may comprise a spring loaded pin locking system. A spring loaded pin may be arranged in the top module and protruding from the outer perimeter of the top module. The top module is arranged to be inserted partly into the base module (e.g. grip section). The base module (e.g. grip section) may comprise one or more openings for receiving the spring loaded pin such that the top module is locked onto the base module (e.g. grip section) when the spring loaded pin is received into the one or more opening.

In yet another embodiment, the modular handle system may comprise a base module adapted to be mounted on a top end of a longitudinal pole shaft, wherein the first and second top modules comprises a grip section and adapted to slide over and onto the top end of the pole shaft and such that it covers at least one section of the base module. The modular handle system may comprise an interlocking system for releasably connecting the first top module or the second top module to the base module. The second top module may have one or more different structural, technical and/or mechanical properties in relation to the first top module. Thus, the base module and the top modules comprises an interlocking system with complementary cooperating means so that the top module can be secured to the base module.

As disclosed above, the interlocking system may have various embodiments, and each embodiment may comprise individual quick release arrangements. The quick release is arranged for easy and quick release of the retaining means such that the interlocking system can be operated. The quick release is preferably operated without requiring the use of tools. Thus, simplifies the replacement or change between different top modules. The quick release device may be at least any one of a: press button, lever, puller, spring loaded device, or screwing device.

The first and/or second top module may comprise one or more sensors and/or a sensor unit comprising one or more sensors.

The sensor unit or the sensors may be located on the longitudinal shaft, in the base module (e.g. grip section), in the top module, in the hand strap, or a combination thereof.

The one or more sensors may be configured to measure force and/or strain in any suitable number of directions with reference to the mounted location of the one or more sensors or sensor unit.

The one or more sensors may include a sensor configured to measure the application of force, including any mechanical force, strain, displacement, and/or pressure, exerted by the skier on or through the ski pole, the movement and/or angle of ski pole, the compression, tension, or both, along the axis of the ski pole, any combination of forces and/or moments in any three dimensions of the ski pole.

The one or more sensors and/or sensor unit may be located on and/or within the ski pole. The one or more sensors and/or sensor unit may be located within the shaft and/or in the handle system of the ski pole. The one or more sensors and/or sensor unit may be integrated into the base module (e.g. grip section) and/or into the top module of the interchangeable handle system.

The one or more sensors and/or sensor unit may be a removable unit such that it can be mounted into the interchangeable handle system and/or into the shaft of the ski pole. For example, when disconnecting the top module from the base module (e.g. grip section), the one or more sensors and/or sensor unit may be placed into the top of the longitudinal shaft, between the shaft and the base module, and/or in the top module. This allows the skier to easily separate the sensor unit from the ski pole when not skiing or use it on another ski pole.

A sensor unit may comprise sensors attached to an elastic device and/or sealed volume to measure changes in the volume or displacements of the device. Such devices may be removably located into the top hollow section of the longitudinal shaft.

The one or more sensors may be at least any one of a: strain gauge, capacitive strain gauge, hall effect sensor, pressure sensor, optical sensor, piezoelectric sensor, etc.

The top module may comprise one or more processors for processing data from the one or more sensors. The top module may also comprise a remote or wireless transmitter for transmitting the data to a remote unit.

A computing device may utilize sensor data to determine the power generated by the skier while skiing. According to one aspect of the invention, one or more sensors may be pre installed in one sensor unit. The sensor unit or the computing device may each comprise processors, wireless transceivers, memory or storing devices, power source etc, in order to perform the calculations based on measured sensor data from the one or more sensors.

The top module may comprise a remote or wireless controller adapted to electrically operate external devices such as headlight, moveable bindings, earphones, brakes for rollerskis, etc. The controller may be operated by any of a switch, press button, capacitive sensor, proximity sensor piezo touch switch, or resistance touch switch provided on the top module, or any combination of the aforementioned interaction mechanisms. The interaction mechanism is easily accessible to the user. Batteries for operating the wireless controller may also be located in the top module.

The invention is also directed to a ski or walking pole comprising a longitudinal shaft with a top end and a bottom end, and an interchangeable handle system as defined in any of the above embodiments.

Having attached the grip section onto the longitudinal shaft, the top end of the longitudinal shaft may be accessible through an opening provided on the base module (e.g. grip section). Access to the top end of the shaft allows also the mounting of a sensor unit when the top module has been separated from the base module (e.g. grip section). For measuring the application of force, including any mechanical force, strain, displacement, and/or pressure, exerted by the skier on or through the ski pole, it is necessary to gain access to the longitudinal shaft for placing out the sensor unit and/or one or more sensors. This can be done by mounting a separate sensor unit onto the top of the shaft or the sensor unit may be already included in the top module such that it can be operable when connected to the base module (e.g. grip section). The sensor unit may comprise one or more sensors attached to an elastic or semi-elastic unit adapted to be inserted into the hollow part of the top section of the longitudinal shaft.

One or more sensors may also be mounted on the top end of the longitudinal shaft and another at the bottom end of the shaft (not shown), thereby providing two measurement points along the shaft and allowing the measurement of the bending moment and the force applied to the ski pole during use.

The base module (e.g. grip section) of the present invention may comprise an internal pocket arranged for receiving the top end of the longitudinal shaft. The internal pocket may comprise perforations to allow visual inspection, thus, allowing the assembler to see that the top end is completely received into the internal pocket. This system provides increased quality control and avoids the wrong mounting of the handle. Thus, the system, according to the present invention, ensures correct and proper mounting of the handle onto the shaft.

The internal pocket may comprise perforations for easy cutting off parts of the internal pocket in order to gain additional access to the top of the longitudinal shaft. For example if a sensor unit should be mounted into the hollow top end of the longitudinal shaft.

The invention is also related to a ski or walking pole system comprising a longitudinal shaft, and an interchangeable handle system as described in the embodiments above. The base module is adapted to be pre-mounted on a top end of the longitudinal shaft, and any one of the first top module or the second top module can be connected to the base module.

The invention is also directed to a method for mounting a handle onto a longitudinal shaft by means of the interchangeable handle system as described in the embodiments above, and wherein the interlocking system comprises retaining means. The method comprises the step of:

- mounting the base module onto a top end of the longitudinal shaft;

- choosing between the first or second top module to be mounted onto the base module;

- mounting the first or second top module onto the base module by means of the interlocking system,

- securing the first or second top module onto the base module by means of the retaining means.

The invention is also directed to a method of replacing a first top module arranged on a base module of a ski or walking pole with a second top module, in an interchangeable handle system.

The first top module comprises a first strap connection system for connecting a hand strap, the first strap connection system is arranged in its entirety on the first top module, and the second top module comprises a second strap connection system arranged in its entirety on the second top module. The method comprises the steps of:

- operating the quick release device connected to the retaining means such that the interlocking system can be released,

- when the interlocking system has been released, removing the first top module from the upper part of the grip section;

- connecting the second top module to the base module using the interlocking system,

- locking the second top module on or onto the base module by operating the retaining means into locking position.

The strap connection system being arranged in its entirety on the first top module indicates that all fastening means for the hand strap are located on the top module. This also means that when removing the first top module from the base module (e.g. grip section), the entire strap connection system can be removed and replaced by a new strap connection system provided on the second top module.

Figures

Fig. 1 shows a modular handle comprising a first top module connected to a base module in the form of a grip section, the strap connection system is arranged in its entirety on the first top module and comprises a retainer connected to a hand strap and a retainer locking device arranged on the top module.

Fig. 2A shows a cross sectional view of the modular handle.

Fig. 2B shows a modular handle comprising a base module in form of a grip section and a removable first top module.

Figs. 3A-3C shows a modular handle system comprising a base module in form of a grip section and a removable first top module, the second top module has a different strap connection system than the first top module.

Figs. 4A-4C shows exemplary embodiments of the first top module having different structural properties.

Figs. 5A and 5B shows an embodiment of the interlocking system and various top modules having different structural properties than can fit into the base module in form of a grip section.

Figs. 6A-6D shows another embodiment of the interlocking system.

Figs. 7A-7C shows the modular handle system comprising any one of a sensor, a transmitter, a processor, controller, etc.

Figs. 8A and 8B shows a ski pole comprising a longitudinal shaft with a top end accessible from the top of the base module in form of a grip section when the top module is removed. Figs. 9A and 9B shows a top module adapted to be inserted onto the base module, the figures shows different interlocking systems for securing the top module to the base module.

Detailed description of the figures

Fig. 1 shows an interchangeable handle system 20 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The handle system comprises a base module 2 in form of a grip section 2 and a first top module 3 connectable to the upper part of the grip section 2. The first top module 3 comprises a first strap connection system 10 for connecting a hand strap 13 to the handle system 20, the first strap connection system 10 is arranged in its entirety on the first top module 3. The handle system further comprises an interlocking system 5 for releasably connecting the first top module 3 from the grip section 2. The handle system is modular such that the first top module 3 can be removed and replaced by a second top module 4 (not shown), having the same/common cooperating interlocking system 5, or same/common interface 5.

The term “top module” is in the application referred to a first and/or a second top module 3,4.

In figure 1, the first strap connection system 10 may comprise a retainer 22 connected to a hand strap 13 and a retainer locking device 23 mounted on the first top module 3. The retainer 22 is adapted to be inserted and locked into the retainer locking device 23 such that the hand strap 13 is attached to the handle system. The strap connection system in figure 1 is an example of a first strap connection system 10. According to the present invention, any strap connection system 10,20 arranged on a first top module 3 can be connected onto the grip section 2 (base module).

Figure 2A shows a cross sectional view of the modular handle system 20 comprising a base module in form of a grip section 2 and a first top module 3 removably connected to the top of the grip section 2. The handle system 20 comprises an interlocking system 5 for connecting and separating the first top module 5 from the grip section 2. The interlocking system 5 may be at least any one of a: sliding mechanism, screw lock, snap lock, wedge lock or cam lock.

Figure 2B shows the interlocking system 5 comprising a sliding mechanism having a protruding track 5”, 6” and a recess/slot 5’,6’for receiving the protruding track 5”, 6”, and such that the track 5”,6”may slide along the recess/slot 5’, 6’ until it is in position. The protruding track 5”, 6 ’’may be arranged on the first top module 3 or it can be arranged on the top of the grip section 2. Alternatively, the protruding track 5”,6”may be arranged on the grip section 2, and the recess/slot 5’, 6’ on the top module 3.

In general, the interlocking system may comprise a first locking part 5 ’,6’ arranged on the grip section 2 and a second locking part 5”, 6” arranged on the first or second top module 3,4, wherein the second locking part 5”, 6” is complementary to the first locking part 5’, 6’.

Once the first or second top module 3,4 is connected to the top of the grip section 2 and in position, it may be locked by retaining means 25. The retaining means may comprise a pin 12 inserted through an opening of the top module 3,4 and into an opening of the grip section 2, for holding the top module 3,4 onto the grip section 2. The pin 12 may be removable or the pin 12 may be integrated into the top module 3,4. Different retaining means 25 may be used in order to lock the first or second top module 3,4 onto the top of the grip section 2. The retaining means 25 may be any one of a: wedge, pin, abutting edges or spring loaded locking devices or a combination thereof.

The interlocking system 5 may comprise a quick release device (not shown) connected to a retaining means 25,12, for releasing the retaining means 25,12 such that the interlocking system 5 can be operated and so that the first or second top module 3,4 can be separated from the grip section 2. The quick release device may be at least any one of a: press button, lever, puller, or unscrewing device connected to the retaining means 25.

Figure 3 A shows a second top module 4 connected to a base module in form of a grip section 2. The second top module 4 comprises a second strap connection system 11. The second strap connection system 11 can be the same or different from the first strap connection system 10.

The term “different strap connection system” refers, in the entire application, to a system that has one or more structural, technical and/or mechanical properties that are different. The difference may be a different technical or mechanical property, such as different strap connection systems, different sensors, different trigger mechanisms etc. Alternatively, or additionally, a different structural or mechanical property may be that the first top module 3 is longer, shorter, thicker, thinner, stiffer, softer etc. (as shown in figures 4A-4C) relative to the second top module 4, or vice versa. Differences may also be directed to including one or more components, i.e. sensors, or not.

The second top module 4 may comprise a strap 13 that is connected to the second strap connection system 11. As an exemplifying embodiment, the strap 13 has a retaining locking device and adjusting mechanism comprising a wedge 26 arranged on top of the second strap connection system 11, adapted to wedge fasten the hand strap 13 into an opening 27 of the second strap connection system 11. See figure 3C.

The modular or interchangeable handle system 20 comprises an interlocking system 5 for releasably connecting the second top module 4 to the grip section 2 which is mounted on a longitudinal shaft 16. The interlocking system 5 may be at least any one of a: sliding mechanism, screw lock, snap lock, wedge lock or cam lock. The interlocking system 5 makes the grip section 2 compatible with any first or second top module 3,4. Thus, the handle system 20 is modular such that the second top module 4 can be removed and replaced by a first top module 3, and vice versa.

The first and second top module 3,4 may be used interchangeably and they can be identical or they may be different.

Figure 3B shows the second top module 11 connected to the top of the grip section 2.

Figure 3C shows that the interlocking system 5 may be a sliding arrangement comprising protruding track 5”, 6” and recess/slot 5’, 6’ for receiving and guiding the second top module 4 into position. The figure also shows in an exploded view the strap connection system 20 comprising an opening 27 for a hand strap 13 and wedge 26 for clamping/wedging the strap 13 such that it is attached to the strap connection system 20.

Figure 4A-4C shows different sizes of the first top module 3. The first and second top module 3,4 may be the same or they may have variations in design, shape and contains. The second locking part 5”, 6” of the top module 3,4, is complementary to the first locking part 5’, 6’ provided on the grip section 2.

Figure 5 A and 5B shows an example of an interlocking system 5 comprising screw lock for connecting the first or second top module 3,4 to the grip section 2. The interlocking system 5 may comprise a first locking part 5’, 6’ on the grip section and a second locking part 5”, 6” on the first or second top module 3,4, and the second locking part 5”, 6” is complementary to the first locking part 5 ’,6’. The interlocking system 5 may comprise a “screw and nut” system for mounting the top module 3,4 to the grip section 2. The interlocking system 5 in figure 5A and 5B comprises screw threads for screwing the top module 3,4 onto the top of the grip section 2.

Figure 5 B shows some of the different variations of top modules 3,4 comprising the complementary interlocking system 5 such that each of the top modules 3,4 can be removably connected to the grip section 2.

Figure 6A-6D shows an example of an interlocking system 3 comprising click lock with a spring loaded pin, for connecting the first or second top module 4’, 4” to the grip section 2. The click lock connection is formed by two pins 28 on opposite sides of a lower part of the top module 3,4 for locking into two complementary openings 29 in an upper part of the grip section 2. The click lock connection may be formed by an intermediate element with pins 28 locking the top module 3,4 to the grip section 2 extending through receiving holes 27,29 in the top module 3,4 and the grip section 2, respectively. The intermediate element formed as a bow with the pins 28 at opposite ends of the bows, provides a spring loaded property to the pins 28. During connection, the closed end of the bow is normally extending into the top module 3,4, however it is also possible that the closed end of the bow is extending into the grip section 2 instead.

The spring loaded pin may be arranged in the top module 3,4 and arranged to be clicked into an opening 29 provided on the grip section 2. The top module 3,4 can be released by pressing the quick release pins 28 into the opening 29 such that the top module 3,4 can be withdrawn.

Again, according to the present invention, any interlocking system 3 can be used for connecting the first or second top module 3,4 to the grip section 2.

The interlocking system 5 may also comprise a wedge locking system (not shown) similar to the strap connection system in figure 1. The system comprises a retainer comprising a locking head arranged on the top module 3,4 and arranged to be received into a recess of a retainer locking device provided on top of the grip section 2. Both the retainer and the retainer locking device comprises abutting edges such that the locking head is retained in the recess. A magnet (not shown) may be provided for attraction and automatic coupling of the retainer to the retainer locking device. The attraction force applied by the magnet pulls the locking head through the opening of the recess and such that the edges of the retainer and the retainer locking device abuts, thereby automatically locking the retainer to the locking device. The attracting force of the magnets will automatically snap the locking head into the recess and simultaneously place the edges into engagement. The retainer and the top module 3,4 may thus be released by means of a puller arranged to separate the abutting edges when lifted.

Figure 7 A shows that the top module 3,4 may comprise a sensor unit 17 comprising one or more sensors 7. The sensor unit 17 and/or the one or more sensors 7 may be located in the grip section 2, mounted in the longitudinal shaft 16, or in the top module 3,4 or a combination thereof. The one or more sensors 7 may be at least any one of a: strain gauge, capacitive strain gauge, hall effect sensor, pressure sensor, optical sensor, piezoelectric sensor, etc.

The one or more sensors 7 may be configured to measure force and/or strain in any suitable number of directions with reference to the mounted location of the sensor unit 17.

The sensor unit 17 may include one or more sensors 7 configured to measure the application of force, including any mechanical force, strain, displacement, and/or pressure, exerted by the skier on or through the ski pole, the movement and/or angle of ski pole, the compression, tension, or both, along the axis of the ski pole, any combination of forces and/or moments in any three dimensions of the ski pole.

The sensor unit 17 may be an external unit adapted for connection to the modular handle system, or the sensor unit may be an internal device arranged in the top module and/or in the grip section. The sensor unit 17 may be an external device adapted for connection to the shaft 16.

The modular handle system 20 may comprise one or more processors 8 for processing data from the one or more sensors 7.

The modular handle system 20 may also comprise a remote or wireless transmitter 9 for transmitting the data to a remote unit.

The top module 3,4 may comprise a remote or wireless controller 18 as illustrated in figure 7B and 7C, adapted to electrically operate external devices such as headlight, moveable bindings, earphones, brakes for rollerskis, etc. The wireless controller 18 may be operated by a press button 15 or a scrolling or sliding device arranged on the top section of the top module 3,4.

The controller 18 may be operated by any of a switch, press button, capacitive sensor, proximity sensor piezo touch switch, or resistance touch switch provided on the top module, or any combination of the aforementioned interaction mechanisms. The interaction mechanism is easily accessible to the user.

Figures 8 A and 8B shows an embodiment of the present invention with a modular handle 20 mounted onto a longitudinal shaft 16. The longitudinal shaft 16 having a top end and a bottom end, and wherein the modular handle system 20 is connected to the top end of the shaft 16. The top end of the longitudinal shaft 16 is accessible through an opening provided on the base module in form of a grip section 2. This provides increased control and thus less mistakes when mounting and gluing the grip section 2 to the shaft 16, since the top end of the shaft 16 will be visible. The grip section 2 may also comprise an internal pocket (not shown) for receiving the top end of the shaft 16. The pocket may have perforations to see through and for easy cutting off parts if necessary.

Access to the top end of the shaft 16 allows also the mounting of a sensor unit 17 when the top module 3,4 has been separated from the grip section 2. For measuring the application of force, including any mechanical force, strain, displacement, and/or pressure, exerted by the skier on or through the ski pole, it is necessary to gain access to the longitudinal shaft 16 for placing out the sensor unit 17 and/or one or more sensors 7. This can be done by mounting a separate sensor unit 17 onto the top of the shaft 16 or the sensor unit may be already included in the top module 3,4 such that it can be operable when connected to the grip section. Figure 8B shows that the sensor unit may be placed into the top section of the longitudinal shaft 16.

Figures 9 A and 9B shows the modular handle system 20 comprising a base module 2 adapted to be mounted on a top end of a pole shaft 16. The base module 2 may be pre-mounted (i.e. glued) onto the pole shaft.

A first top module 3 or a second top module 4 can slide onto the base module 2 such that it covers at least a section of the base module 2. The top modules 3,4 comprises a grip section. The interlocking system 5 comprises a first locking part 5 ’,6’ arranged on the base section 2 and a second locking part 5”,6”arranged on the top module 3,4, and wherein the second locking part 5”, 6” is complementary to the first locking part 5 ’,6’.

The first locking part 5’, 6’ may comprise a track or a recess for cooperation with a track or recess provided on the second locking part 5”, 6” such that the top module 3,4 is guided onto the base module 2. The interlocking system 5 may also comprise retaining means 25 for securing the second locking part 5”, 6” to the first locking part 5’, 6’. The retaining means 25 may be located on the base module 2 and/or the top modules 3,4 and may comprise a nut (Fig. 9A) or a click lock /abutting edge lock (Fig. 9B). The retaining means 25 allows for a quick assembly and removal of the first top module 3 or the second top module 4.

The system allows for customization of ski poles, in that the user may choose between the first top module 3 or the second top module 4 to be mounted on the ski pole. In production the assembly cost can be saved since this task of assembly the pole handle is transferred to the user.

Claims

1. An interchangeable handle system (20) for a ski or walking pole (1), the handle system comprising:

- a base module (2);

- a first top module (3,4) connectable to the base module (2), wherein the first top module (3,4) comprises a first strap connection system (10,11) for connecting a hand strap (13) to the first top module (3,4), wherein the first strap connection system (10,11) is arranged in its entirety on the first top module (3,4);

- a second top module (4,3) connectable to the base module (2), wherein the second top module (4,3) comprises a second strap connection system (11,10) arranged in its entirety on the second top module (4,3);

- an interlocking system (5) for releasably connecting the first top module (3,4) or the second top module (4,3) to the base module (2); and characterized in that the second top module (4,3) has one or more different structural, technical and/or mechanical properties in relation to the first top module (3,4).

2. The interchangeable handle system according to claim 1, wherein the second strap connection system (11,10) has a different technical and/or mechanical property in relation to the first strap connection system (10,11).

3. The interchangeable handle system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the interlocking system (5) comprises at least any one of following mechanisms: sliding mechanism (5’, 5”), screw, snap/click lock, wedge lock or cam lock.

4. The interchangeable handle system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each of the first top module (3,4) and the second top module (4,3) are connectable onto or to a top end of the base module (2).

5. The interchangeable handle system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the interlocking system (5) comprises a first locking part (5’, 6’) arranged on the base module (2) and a second locking part (5”, 6”) arranged on each of the first and second top module (3,4), wherein the second locking part (5”, 6”) is complementary to the first locking part (5’, 6’).

6. The interchangeable handle system according to claim 5, wherein the interlocking system (5) comprises retaining means (25,12) for securing the second locking part (5”, 6”) to the first locking part (5’, 6’).

7. The interchangeable handle system according to claim 6, wherein the retaining means (25,12) is at least any one of a: pin (12), abutting edges, wedge system, or screwing device.

8. The interchangeable handle system according to claim 7, wherein the interlocking system (5) comprises a quick release device for releasing the retaining means (25) such that the first locking part (5’, 6’) can be separated from the second locking part (5”,6”).

9. The interchangeable handle system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the base module is a grip section (2).

10. The interchangeable handle system according to any one of claims 1-8, wherein the first and second top modules (3,4) comprises a grip section (2).

11. A ski or walking pole system comprising:

- a longitudinal shaft, and

- an interchangeable handle system according to any one of claims 1-10, wherein the base module (2) is adapted to be pre-mounted on a top end of the longitudinal shaft, and wherein any one of the first top module (3,4) or the second top module (4,3) can be connected to the base module (2).

12. A method for mounting a handle onto a longitudinal shaft by means of the interchangeable handle system according to any one of claims 1-10, wherein the interlocking system (5) comprises retaining means (25,12), and wherein the method comprises the step of:

- mounting the base module onto a top end of the longitudinal shaft;

- mounting the first or second top module onto the base module by means of the interlocking system (5),

- securing the first top module or the second top module onto the base module by means of the retaining means (25,12).