WO2023164460A1

WO2023164460A1 - Interface pad system and method

Info

Publication number: WO2023164460A1
Application number: PCT/US2023/062989
Authority: WO
Inventors: Yonnick Firehorse
Original assignee: Yonnick Firehorse
Priority date: 2022-02-22
Filing date: 2023-02-22
Publication date: 2023-08-31

Abstract

An interface pad system for increasing animal comfort while preventing slippage and methods for making and utilizing the same. The interface pad system includes a central interface pad body member for providing a seating area for a rider and at least one belly strap extending from the interface pad body member. Each belly strap couples with the interface pad body member via a predetermined number of billets. The billets cooperate with the interface pad body member and preferably extend from the belly strap in divergent directions. When the interface pad system is fitted on a horse or other animal, the belly strap can wrap around a barrel of the animal and secure the interface pad system to the animal. The interface pad system advantageously is comfortable and safe for both the animal and the rider and while preventing slippage of the interface pad system while riding.

Description

S P E C I F I C A T I O N

INTERFACE PAD SYSTEM AND METHOD

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of, and priority to, United States Provisional Application Serial No. 63/312,756, filed on February 22, 2022, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety and for all purposes.

FIELD

[0002] The disclosed embodiments relate generally to the field of interface pads and more particularly, but not exclusively, to interface pad systems and methods for horses and other animals.

BACKGROUND

[0003] Conventional saddles and interface pads, including customized saddles and interface pads, do not fit every horse and can be uncomfortable for both horse and rider.

[0004] A typical interface pad includes a single Y-shaped belly strap that wraps around the barrel of the horse and secures the interface pad to the horse. As the horse moves, the neck of the horse raises and lowers, but the withers remain still and act as a fulcrum for balancing the horse. The interface pad also moves around as the horse moves, shifting backwardly to the rear of the horse. The belly strap likewise moves forward under the armpits of the horse. The movement of the interface pad results in restricted movement and spinal pressure for the horse. The horse thus can experience bruising and soreness after each ride.

[0005] In view of the foregoing, a need exists for an improved interface pad system and method for increasing animal comfort while preventing slippage that overcome the aforementioned obstacles and deficiencies of currently-available interface pads.

SUMMARY

[0006] The present disclosure relates to an interface pad system for increasing animal comfort while preventing slippage and methods for making and utilizing the same. The interface pad system includes a central interface pad body member for providing a seating area for a rider and at least one belly strap extending from the interface pad body member. Each belly strap couples with the interface pad body member via a predetermined number of billets. The billets cooperate with the interface pad body member and preferably extend from the belly strap in divergent directions. When the interface pad system is fitted on a horse or other animal, the belly strap can wrap around a barrel of the animal and secure the interface pad system to the animal. The interface pad system advantageously is comfortable and safe for both the animal and the rider and while preventing slippage of the interface pad system while riding.

[0007] In accordance with a first aspect disclosed herein, there is set forth an interface pad system (or means) for a ridable animal that can comprise:

[0008] a flexible central body member being configured to conform with an external periphery of a back of the ridable animal and having a frontal region, a rear region disposed a predetermined body length from the frontal region, a first side region and a second side region disposed at a predetermined body width from the first side region;

[0009] a plurality of elongated billets being distributed along the predetermined body length of the central body member and having first end regions being positioned adjacent to the first side region of the central body member and second end regions being positioned adjacent to the second side region of the central body member;

[0010] a first elongated belly strap having a first proximal end region being coupled with the first end regions of the elongated billets and a first distal end region extending from the first side region of the central body member; and/or

[0011] a second elongated belly strap having a second proximal end region being coupled with the second end regions of the elongated billets and a second distal end region extending from the second side region of the central body member and being configured to engage the first distal end region of the first elongated belly strap, [0012] wherein the elongated billets can be configured to distribute a weight of a rider across the back of the ridable animal providing increased comfort for both the ridable animal and the rider.

[0013] In some embodiments of the interface pad system of the first aspect, the central body member can comprise a lower layer for engaging the back of the ridable animal, an upper layer being opposite the lower layer and providing a seating area for a rider, and one or more intermediate middle layers being disposed between the lower layer and the upper layer.

[0014] In some embodiments of the interface pad system of the first aspect, the lower layer can be formed from a breathable moisture-wicking material for distributing sweat from the ridable animal and/or at least one of the intermediate middle layers can comprise a padding layer for absorbing energy generated between the ridable animal and the rider. The central body member, for example, can include a pair of intermediate middle layers, and the elongated billets can be disposed between the pair of intermediate middle layers. The intermediate middle layers optionally can span from the frontal region to the rear region of the central body member and spans between the first and second side regions of the central body member.

[0015] Additionally and/or alternatively, the first end regions of the elongated billets can be coupled with the first proximal end region of the first elongated belly strap via a first coupling device, the first proximal end region of the first elongated belly strap engaging a first portion of the first coupling device, the first end regions of the elongated billets engaging a second portion of the first coupling device and extending from the first coupling device in divergent directions. The second end regions of the elongated billets optionally can be coupled with the second proximal end region of the second elongated belly strap via a second coupling device, the second proximal end region of the second elongated belly strap engaging a first portion of the second coupling device, the second end regions of the elongated billets engaging a second portion of the second coupling device and extending from the second coupling device in divergent directions. [0016] In selected embodiments, the first coupling device can comprise a first D-ring, the first portion of the first coupling device comprising a flat portion of the first D-ring and the second portion of the first coupling device comprising a rounded portion of the first D-ring and/or the second coupling device can comprise a second D-ring, the first portion of the second coupling device comprising a flat portion of the second D-ring and the second portion of the second coupling device comprising a rounded portion of the second D-ring. At least one of the first and second D-rings optionally can comprise a double D-ring.

[0017] The first coupling device, for example, can be at least partially enclosed by the lower layer and the upper layer adjacent at the first side region of the central body member, and/or the second coupling device can be at least partially enclosed by the lower layer and the upper layer adjacent at the second side region of the central body member. In some embodiments, the interface pad system of the first aspect can further comprise a handle member being coupled with a first elongated billet adjacent to the frontal region of the central body member and extending through the upper layer between the frontal region of the central body member and the seating area for the rider.

[0018] In some embodiments of the interface pad system of the first aspect, four elongated billets can be evenly distributed along the predetermined body length of the central body member.

[0019] In some embodiments, the interface pad system of the first aspect can further comprise a strap member extending from the flexible central body member and being configured to releasably couple with an object for use by the rider. The strap member optionally can be configured to releasably couple with a water bottle.

[0020] In some embodiments of the interface pad system of the first aspect, the second distal end region of the second elongated belly strap can be configured to directly engage with the first distal end region of the first elongated belly strap.

[0021] In some embodiments, the interface pad system of the first aspect can further comprise a belly pad member for coupling the first distal end region of the first elongated belly strap with the second distal end region of the second elongated belly strap. The belly pad member optionally can comprise: [0022] a flexible belly pad body member being configured to conform with an external periphery of a belly of the ridable animal and having a frontal region, a rear region disposed a predetermined body length from the frontal region, a first side region and a second side region disposed at a predetermined body width from the first side region; and/or

[0023] a plurality of second elongated billets being distributed along the predetermined body length of the belly pad body member and having first end regions and second end regions, each of the second elongated billets being disposed within the belly pad body member with the first end region being positioned adjacent to the first side region of the belly pad body member and the second end region being positioned adjacent to the second side region of the belly pad body member,

[0024] wherein the first end regions of the second elongated billets can be configured to couple with the first elongated belly strap and the second end regions of the second elongated billets can be configured to couple with the second elongated belly strap.

[0025] The belly pad body member, for example, can comprise a lower layer for engaging the belly of the ridable animal, an upper layer being opposite the lower layer of the belly pad body member, and one or more intermediate middle layers being disposed between the lower layer of the belly pad body member and the upper layer of the belly pad body member. Optionally, the belly pad body member can include a pair of intermediate middle layers, and/or the second elongated billets can be disposed between the pair of intermediate middle layers of the belly pad body member.

[0026] In selected embodiments, the first end regions of the second elongated billets can be configured for coupling with the first distal end region of the first elongated belly strap via a third coupling device, a first portion of the third coupling device being adapted to engage the first distal end region of the first elongated belly strap, the first end regions of the second elongated billets engaging a second portion of the third coupling device and extending from the third coupling device in divergent directions. The third coupling device optionally can comprise a first buckle apparatus. The first buckle apparatus, for example, can include a first main body member having a first rounded periphery and defining a first body member opening, a first bar member extending from the first main body member into the first body member opening, a first roller member being disposed about a periphery of the first bar member and being permitted to rotate relatively to the first bar member, a second bar member extending from the first main body member into the first body member opening and a first prong member extending from a periphery of the second bar member and extending away from the first bar member, the first distal end region of the first elongated belly strap being received by a first central opening defined by the first bar member, the second bar member and the first rounded periphery of the first main body member and engaging the first prong member, the first end regions of said second elongated billets engaging the first rounded periphery of the first main body member. [0027] The second end regions of the second elongated billets optionally can be configured for coupling with the second distal end region of the second elongated belly strap via a fourth coupling device, a first portion of the fourth coupling device being adapted to engage the second distal end region of the second elongated belly strap, the second end regions of the second elongated billets engaging a second portion of the fourth coupling device and extending from the fourth coupling device in divergent directions. The fourth coupling device, for example, can comprise a second buckle apparatus. In selected embodiments, the second buckle apparatus can include a second main body member having a second rounded periphery and defining a second body member opening, a third bar member extending from the second main body member into the second body member opening, a second roller member being disposed about a periphery of the third bar member and being permitted to rotate relatively to the third bar member, a fourth bar member extending from the second main body member into the second body member opening and a second prong member extending from a periphery of the fourth bar member and extending away from the third bar member, the second distal end region of the second elongated belly strap being received by a second central opening defined by the third bar member, the fourth bar member and the second rounded periphery of the second main body member and engaging the second prong member, the second end regions of said second elongated billets engaging the second rounded periphery of the second main body member.

[0028] In accordance with a second aspect disclosed herein, there is set forth a method for manufacturing an interface pad system including a flexible central body member being configured to conform with an external periphery of a back of the ridable animal and having a frontal region, a rear region disposed a predetermined body length from the frontal region, a first side region and a second side region disposed at a predetermined body width from the first side region, the method comprising:

[0029] distributing a plurality of elongated billets having first end regions and second end regions along the predetermined body length of the central body member, the elongated billets spanning the predetermined body width of the central body member with the first end region being positioned adjacent to the first side region of the central body member and the second end region being positioned adjacent to the second side region of the central body member;

[0030] coupling a first elongated belly strap having a first distal end region and a first proximal end region with the first end regions of the elongated billets with the first distal end region of the first elongated belly strap extending from the first side region of the central body member; and/or [0031] coupling a second elongated belly strap having a second distal end region and a second proximal end region with the second end regions of the elongated billets with the second distal end region of the second elongated belly strap extending from the second side region of the central body member and being configured to engage the first distal end region of the first elongated belly strap,

[0032] wherein the distributed billets can be configured to distribute a weight of a rider across the back of the ridable animal.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0033] Fig. l is a top-level diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of an interface pad system, wherein the interface pad system includes an interface pad body member and one or more belly straps. [0034] Fig. 2A is a detail diagram illustrating an exemplary alternative embodiment of the interface pad body member of Fig. 1, wherein the interface pad body member comprises multiple body member layers.

[0035] Fig. 2B is a detail diagram illustrating an exemplary alternative embodiment of the interface pad body member of Fig. 2A, wherein the interface pad body member includes two padding layers.

[0036] Fig. 3 A is a detail diagram illustrating another exemplary alternative embodiment of the interface pad system of Fig. 1, wherein the belly strap extending from a first side region of the interface pad body member couples with a proximal end region of a plurality of billets.

[0037] Fig. 3B is a detail diagram illustrating still another exemplary alternative embodiment of the interface pad system of Fig. 1, wherein the belly strap extending from a second side region of the interface pad body member couples with a distal end region of the plurality of billets.

[0038] Fig. 4 is a side view of the interface pad system of Fig. 1.

[0039] Fig. 5 is bottom view of the interface pad system of Fig. 1.

[0040] Fig. 6A is a top-level diagram illustrating an exemplary rigging dee of the interface pad system of Fig. 1.

[0041] Fig. 6B is a top-level diagram illustrating a top view of the rigging dee of Fig. 6A.

[0042] Fig. 6C is a detail drawing illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the rigging dee of Figs. 6A-B.

[0043] Fig. 6D is a detail drawing illustrating a perspective view of the rigging dee of Fig. 6C. [0044] Fig. 6E is a dimension drawing illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the rigging dee of Figs. 6A-B, wherein illustrative dimensions for each member of the rigging dee are shown. [0045] Fig. 6F is a detail drawing illustrating a top view of the rigging dee of Fig. 6E.

[0046] Fig. 7 is a detail diagram illustrating yet another alternative exemplary alternative embodiment of the interface pad system of Fig. 1, wherein the belly strap extending from a second side region of the interface pad body member couples with a distal end region of the plurality of billets. [0047] Fig. 8 is a detail diagram illustrating an alternative exemplary alternative embodiment of the interface pad system of Fig. 7, wherein the belly strap is configured to couple with a belly pad member.

[0048] Fig. 9 is a detail drawing illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the belly pad member of Fig. 8.

[0049] Fig. 10A is a detail diagram illustrating another exemplary alternative embodiment of the belly pad member of Fig. 8, wherein the belly pad member comprises multiple body member layers.

[0050] Fig. 10B is a detail diagram illustrating an exemplary alternative embodiment of the belly pad member of Fig. 10A, wherein the belly pad member includes two padding layers.

[0051] Fig. 1 1 A is a detail drawing illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a buckle apparatus for the belly pad member of Fig. 8.

[0052] Fig. 1 IB is a detail drawing illustrating a side view of the buckle apparatus of Fig. 11A.

[0053] Fig. 11C is a detail drawing illustrating a front view of the buckle apparatus of Figs. 11A-B.

[0054] Fig. 1 ID is a detail drawing illustrating a perspective view of the buckle apparatus of Figs. 11A-B.

[0055] Figs. 1 IE and 1 IF are dimension drawings illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the buckle apparatus of Figs. 11A-B, wherein illustrative dimensions for each member of the buckle apparatus are shown.

[0056] Figs. 12A-B are detail drawings illustrating an exemplary use of the buckle apparatus of Figs. 11A-B.

[0057] It should be noted that the figures are not drawn to scale and that elements of similar structures or functions are generally represented by like reference numerals for illustrative purposes throughout the figures. It also should be noted that the figures are only intended to facilitate the description of the preferred embodiments. The figures do not illustrate every aspect of the described embodiments and do not limit the scope of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0058] Since currently-available saddles and interface pads move around as an animal moves and result in restricted movement and spinal pressure for the animal, an interface pad system and method for increasing animal comfort while preventing slippage can prove desirable and provide a basis for a wide range of applications, such as horseback riding. This result can be achieved, according to one embodiment disclosed herein, by an interface pad system (or means) 100 as illustrated in Fig 1.

[0059] Turning to Fig. 1, the interface pad system 100 can include a central interface pad body member 110. The interface pad body member 110 can comprise a flexible body with a predetermined length between a frontal region 112 and a rear region 114 of the interface pad body member 1 10 and a predetermined width between opposite side regions 1 16 of the interface pad body member 110. Although the predetermined length and/or the predetermined width may be uniform in selected embodiments, the predetermined length of the interface pad body member 110 can be vary along the predetermined width and/or the predetermined width of the interface pad body member 110 can be vary along the predetermined length as illustrated in Fig. 1.

[0060] If the interface pad system 100 is disposed upon a back 210 of a horse 200 (collectively shown in Fig. 7) or other animal, for example, the interface pad body member 110 can conform with an external periphery of the back 210 of the horse 200 and provide a seating area for a rider (not shown). In some embodiments, the side regions 116 of the interface pad body member 110 can drape around a barrel region 220 of the horse 200.

[0061] The interface pad body member 110 can be provided in any suitable manner. In selected embodiments, the interface pad body member 110 can comprise multiple body member layers 118. Turning to Fig. 2A, for example, the interface pad body member 110 can include a top layer 118A and a bottom layer 118C with at least one intermediate middle layer 118B. The middle layer 118B, in other words, can be disposed between the top layer 118A and the bottom layer 118C. Each body member layer 118 can comprise any suitable materials. For example, the top layer 118A can be formed from leather, suede, denim or other suitable material for providing grip and/or durability, and/or the bottom layer 118C can be formed from Dri-Lex® material available from Faytex Corp in Weymouth, Massachusetts, or other suitable breathable, slipresistant and/or moisture-wicking material to, for example, absorb and/or distribute any sweat from the horse 200 (shown in Fig. 7).

[0062] The middle layer 118B preferably comprises a padding layer for absorbing energy. The padding layer, for example, can comprise one or more layers of perforated, breathable foam for allowing air to circulate and/or for creating shock absorbing protection for both the horse 200 and the rider. In selected embodiments, the interface pad body member 110 comprise a plurality of middle layers 118, such as a pair of middle layers 118Bi, 118B2 as shown in Fig. 2B, without limitation. The interface pad body member 1 10 optionally can include three, four, five or more middle layers 118B.

[0063] Returning to Fig. 1, the interface pad system 100 can include at least one belly strap 120. Each belly strap 120 can comprise an elongate member and extend from a selected side region 116 of the interface pad body member 110. In other words, the belly strap 120 can have a proximal end region 122 that is attached to, and extends from, a first side region 116 of the interface pad body member 110 and a distal end region 124 that is configured to couple with a second side region 116 of the interface pad body member 110. Additionally and/or alternatively, a first belly strap 120 can have a proximal end region 122 that is attached to, and extends from, the first side region 116 of the interface pad body member 110 and a second belly strap 120 can have a proximal end region 122 that is attached to, and extends from, the second side region 116 of the interface pad body member 110. Distal end regions 124 of the first and second belly straps 120 can be configured to couple together.

[0064] The interface pad body member 110 can couple with each belly strap 120 in any suitable manner. Turning to Figs. 3A-B, for example, the proximal end region 122 of each belly strap 120 can couple with a plurality of billets 130. In selected embodiments, the belly strap 120 can couple with any predetermined number of billets 130, such as two, three, four, five, six or even more billets 130, without limitation. Each billet 130 can comprise an elongate member with proximal and distal end regions 132, 134 and can span the width of the interface pad body member 110.

[0065] The billets 130 can cooperate with the interface pad body member 110. For example, the billets 130 can be disposed over and/or under the top layer 118A of the interface pad body member 110 and/or over and/or under the bottom layer 118C of the interface pad body member 110. The billets 130 preferably can be positioned adjacent to the middle layer 118B of the interface pad body member 110. As illustrated in Figs. 3A-B, for example, the billets 130 can be disposed between a selected pair of middle layers 118Bi, 118B2. The selected pair of middle layers 118B1, 118B2 can comprise any pair of the middle layer 118B. At least one of the selected pair of middle layers 118B1, 118B2 can be disposed adjacent to the top layer 1 18A and/or the bottom layer 118C of the interface pad body member 110. Additionally and/or alternatively, the selected pair of middle layers 118B1, 118B2 can be disposed between internal layers of the middle layer 118B.

[0066] When cooperating with the interface pad body member 110, the proximal and distal end regions 132, 134 of the billets 130 can be disposed at first and second side regions 1161, 1162, respectively, of the interface pad body member 110. The first and second side regions 1161, 1162 can comprise opposite side regions 116, such as a left side region and a right side region, of the interface pad body member 110. As illustrated in Fig. 3 A, for example, the proximal end regions 132 of the billets 130 are shown as being disposed at the first side region 1161 of the interface pad body member 110 and coupling with the proximal end region 122 of a first belly strap 120i extending from a first side region 1161 of the interface pad body member 110.

[0067] The proximal end regions 132 of the billets 130 and the proximal end region 122 of the first belly strap 120i can couple in any suitable manner, including via a coupling device 140A such as one or more rigging dees (or dee rings or D-rings) 140 as shown in Fig. 3A. When coupled with the proximal end region 122 of the first belly strap 120i, the billets 130 preferably extend from the first belly strap 120i in divergent directions. Figure 3 A shows the proximal end regions 132 of the billets 130 engaging a rounded portion of the D-ring 140 and the proximal end region 122 of the first belly strap 120i engaging a flat portion of the D-ring 140. In selected embodiments, the coupling between the proximal end regions 132 of the billets 130 and the proximal end region 122 of the first belly strap 120i can be positioned between the top and bottom layers 118A, 118C or otherwise recessed within the interface pad body 110.

[0068] Turning to Fig. 3B, the distal end regions 134 of the billets 130 are shown as being disposed at the second side region 1162 of the interface pad body member 110 and coupling with the proximal end region 122 of a second belly strap 1202 extending from a second side region 1162 of the interface pad body member 110. The distal end regions 134 of the billets 130 and the proximal end region 122 of the second belly strap 1202 can couple in any suitable manner, including via a coupling device 140A such as one or more rigging dees (or dee rings or D-rings) 140 as shown in Fig. 3B. When coupled with the proximal end region 122 of the second belly strap 1202, the billets 130 preferably extend from the second belly strap 1202 in divergent directions. Figure 3B shows the distal end regions 134 of the billets 130 engaging a rounded portion of the D-ring 140 and the proximal end region 122 of the second belly strap 1202 engaging a flat portion of the D-ring 140. In selected embodiments, the coupling between the distal end regions 134 of the billets 130 and the proximal end region 122 of the second belly strap 1202 can be positioned between the top and bottom layers 118A, 118C or otherwise recessed within the interface pad body 110.

[0069] Returning again to Fig. 1 in conjunction with Fig. 4, the interface pad system 100 can include a handle member 150. The handle member 150 preferably is disposed at the frontal region 112 of the interface pad body member 110 and adjacent to the top layer 118A. In selected embodiments, the top layer 118A of the interface pad body member 110 can define a body member opening 152 for receiving the handle member 150 such that the handle member 150 can extend through the body member opening 152 and can be coupled with at least one of the billets 130 (shown in Figs. 3A-B). [0070] For example, the handle member 150 can comprise an elongated flexible handle member that includes opposite end regions 152 and that can conform with an external periphery of the top layer 118A Stated somewhat differently, the handle member 150 can comprise a curved handle member when the interface pad body member 110 assumes a curved body shape. The top layer 118A of the interface pad body member 110 can define first and second body member openings 152 adjacent to the first and second side regions 116i, 1162 (shown in Figs. 3A-B), respectively. The first and second body member openings 152 can receive the end regions 152, and the opposite end regions 152 can extend through the body member openings 152 and can be coupled with at least one of the billets 130. In selected embodiments, the opposite end regions 152 can be coupled with a common billet 130 and/or can be coupled with different billets 130.

[0071] The interface pad system 100 as shown in Figs. 1 and 4 can include one or more optional strap members 160. Each strap member 160 can be coupled with, and extend from, the interface pad body member 110. The strap members 160 can provide a decorative and/or utilitarian functions. For example, a water bottle or other object can be coupled with the interface pad body member 110 via a selected strap member 160.

[0072] Fig. 5 is bottom view of the interface pad system 100. As shown in Fig. 5, the bottom layer 118C of the interface pad body member 110 can include the first and second side regions 1161, 1162, from which the belly strap 120 can extend. Additionally and/or alternatively, the interface pad body member 110 can include stitching 119 for maintaining an alignment and/or sequence of the body member layers 118. The stitching also can help to keep one or more of the body member layers 118, such as the middle layer(s) 118B, from bunching.

[0073] An exemplary embodiment of a rigging dee (or a dee ring or a D-ring) 140 of the interface pad system 100 is shown in Figs. 6A-E. Turning to Fig. 6A, the rigging dee 140 is shown as including a base member 141 that is coupled with an upper member 142. First and second opposite end regions 147, 148 of the upper member 142, for example, can couple with the base member 141. The upper member 142 is shown as including a generally arcuate portion 143 for engaging billets 130 (shown in Figs. 3A-B) of the belly strap 120 (shown in Figs. 3A-B). A top view of the rigging dee 140 of Fig. 6A is shown in Fig. 6B.

[0074] With reference to Figs. 6A-B, an optional middle member 144 can be coupled with the upper member 142, preferably adjacent to the generally arcuate portion 143, in selected embodiments. The middle member 144 can include opposite first and second end regions 144A, 144B. As shown in Fig. 6A, the first end region 144A of the middle member 144 can couple with a first side region 149A of the upper member 142; whereas, the second end region 144B of the middle member 144 can couple with a second side region 149B of the upper member 142.

[0075] The rigging dee 140 can define a first opening 145 between the middle member 144 and the base member 141 . The first opening 145 can receive the proximal end region 122 of a selected belly strap 120 (collectively shown in Figs. 3A-B). The proximal end region 122 of the selected belly strap 120 thereby can encompass, wrap around or otherwise engage the base member 141. A second opening 146 can be defined between middle member 144 and the generally arcuate portion 143 of the rigging dee 140. The second opening 146 can receive the billets 130 of the belly strap 120. The billets 130 of the belly strap 120 can encompass, wrap around or otherwise engage the generally arcuate portion 143.

[0076] Fig. 6C is a detail drawing that illustrates an exemplary embodiment of the rigging dee 140 shown in Figs. 6A-B. A perspective view of the rigging dee 140 of Fig. 6C is illustrated in Fig. 6D. Turning to Figs. 6E-F, exemplary dimensions for the base member 141, upper member 142, the middle member 144 and other members of the rigging dee 140 shown in Figs. 6A-B are illustrated. Although the exemplary dimensions are shown and described, the base member 141, upper member 142, the middle member 144 and other members of the rigging dee 140 can be provided with any suitable dimensions, without limitation.

[0077] The interface pad system 100 advantageously can be used in conjunction with any suitable ridable and/or non-ridable animal without limitation. Turning to Fig. 7, for example, the interface pad system 100 is shown as being positioned on a horse 200. The interface pad body member 110 can be disposed on a back 210 of the horse 200 with the frontal region 112 adjacent to withers 240 of the horse 200. The top layer 118A of the interface pad system 100 can provide a seating area for a rider (not shown) and/or the handle member 150 can provide a hand-hold for the rider.

[0078] Extending from the interface pad body member 110, the belly straps 120 can be permitted to hang downwardly and adjacent to a barrel region 220 of the horse. The belly straps 120 can be coupled together, such as adjacent to a belly region 230 of the horse 200, and wrap around the barrel 220 of the horse 200. When tightened, the coupled belly straps 120 can secure the interface pad system 100 to the horse 200. The belly strap 120 can include a predetermined number of billets 130 (shown in Figs. 3A-B) in the manner discussed in more detail above with reference to Figs. 3A-B.

[0079] The interface pad system 100 advantageously can be provided in a manner that is comfortable and safe for both horse 200 and rider. As the horse moves, for example, the billets 130 can help hold the interface pad system 100 in place unlike the single Y-shaped belly strap of a conventional interface pad. In other words, the billets 130 can prevent the interface pad body member 110 from shifting backwardly to a rear 250 of the horse 200 as the horse 200 moves. Additionally and/or alternatively, the billets 130 can help inhibit the belly strap(s) 120 from moving forward under armpits 260 of the horse 200.

[0080] In selected embodiments, the central interface pad body member 110 of the interface pad system 100 can conform with a shape of the body of the horse 200. The central interface pad body member 110, for example, can conform with a shape of a back of the horse 200. The strapping system of the interface pad system 100 advantageously can distribute pressure evenly throughout the central interface pad body member 110. By evenly distributing pressure throughout the central interface pad body member 110, strap pressure points for the horse 200 can be reduced or eliminated, and/or the rider can enjoy increased stability. Although shown and described with reference to a horse 200 with reference to Fig. 7 for purposes of illustration only, the interface pad system 100 can be positioned on any suitable ridable and/or non-ridable animal without limitation.

[0081] Another exemplary embodiment of the interface pad system 100 is shown in Fig. 8. Turning to Fig. 8, the belly strap 120 of the interface pad system 100 is shown as being configured to couple with an optional belly pad member 170. The belly pad member 170 can at least partially enclose a plurality of billets 180. The belly pad member 170 can comprise a flexible body with a predetermined length between a frontal region 172 and a rear region 174 of the belly pad member 170 and a predetermined width between opposite side regions 176 of the belly pad member 170.

[0082] If the interface pad system 100 is disposed upon a back 210 of a horse 200 (collectively shown in Fig. 8) or other animal, for example, the belly pad member 170 can conform with an external periphery of the belly region 230 of the horse 200. In some embodiments, the side regions 176 of the belly pad member 170 can extend around the barrel region 220 of the horse 200. The belly pad member 170, for example, can conform with a shape of a chest and/or armpits of the horse 200. The billets 180 can distribute pressure evenly throughout the belly pad member 170. By evenly distributing pressure throughout the belly pad member 170, pressure points for the horse 200 can be reduced or eliminated, and/or the rider can enjoy increased stability.

[0083] The belly pad member 170 can be provided in any suitable manner. In selected embodiments, the belly pad member 170 can comprise multiple body member layers 178. Turning to Fig. 10A, for example, the belly pad member 170 can include a top layer 178A and a bottom layer 178C with at least one intermediate middle layer 178B. The middle layer 178B, in other words, can be disposed between the top layer 178A and the bottom layer 178C. Each body member layer 178 can comprise any suitable materials. For example, the top layer 178A can be formed from leather, suede, denim or other suitable material for providing grip and/or durability, and/or the bottom layer 178C can be formed from Dri-Lex® material available from Faytex Corp. in Weymouth, Massachusetts, or other suitable breathable, slip-resistant and/or moi sture-wi eking material to, for example, absorb and/or distribute any sweat from the horse 200 or other animal. [0084] The middle layer 178B preferably comprises a padding layer for absorbing energy. The padding layer, for example, can comprise one or more layers of perforated, breathable foam for allowing air to circulate and/or for creating shock absorbing protection for both the horse 200 and the rider. In selected embodiments, the belly pad member 170 comprise a plurality of middle layers 178, such as a pair of middle layers 178B1, 178B2 as shown in Fig 10B, without limitation. The belly pad member 170 optionally can include three, four, five or more middle layers 178B. Each of the billets 180 can be disposed adjacent to at least one belly pad member layer (or between adjacent belly pad member layers) in the manner discussed above with reference to the body member layers 1 18 of the interface pad body member 110 of Figs. 2A-B and 3A-B.

[0085] When cooperating with the belly pad member 170, the proximal and distal end regions 182, 184 of the billets 180 can be disposed at first and second side regions 176i, 1762, respectively, of the belly pad member 170 as illustrated in Fig. 9. The first and second side regions 176i, 1762 can comprise opposite side regions 176, such as a left side region and a right side region, of the belly pad member 170. In selected embodiments, the billets 180 can span a length of the belly pad member 170.

[0086] As shown in Fig. 9, an optional central strap 186 can intersect the billets 180. The central strap 186, for example, can couple with a midpoint region of at least one of the billets 180 and/or bisect at least one of the billets 180. In selected embodiments, the central strap 186 can couple with each of billets 180. The central strap 186 can include one or more rigging dees (or dee rings or D-rings) 188. The rigging dees 188, for instance, can be coupled with opposite end regions of the central strap 186 as illustrated in Fig. 9.

[0087] The proximal end regions 182 of the billets 180 can couple in any suitable manner, including via one or more buckle apparatuses 190 as shown in Fig. 9. When coupled with a first buckle apparatus 190i, the billets 180 preferably extend from the first buckle apparatus 190i in divergent directions. In selected embodiments, the coupling between the proximal end regions 182 of the billets 180 and the first buckle apparatus 190i can be positioned between the top and bottom layers 178A, 178C or otherwise recessed within the belly pad member 170. Stated somewhat differently, the first buckle apparatus 190i can be positioned between the top and bottom layers 178A, 178C or otherwise recessed within the belly pad member 170.

[0088] Additionally and/or alternatively, the distal end regions 184 of the billets 180 can couple in any suitable manner, including via one or more buckle apparatuses 190. When coupled with a second buckle apparatus 1902, the billets 180 preferably extend from the second buckle apparatus 1902 in divergent directions. In selected embodiments, the coupling between the distal end regions 184 of the billets 180 and the second buckle apparatus 1902 can be positioned between the top and bottom layers 178A, 178C or otherwise recessed within the belly pad member 170. Stated somewhat differently, the second buckle apparatus 1902 can be positioned between the top and bottom layers 178A, 178C or otherwise recessed within the belly pad member 170.

[0089] An exemplary buckle apparatus 190 is shown in Figs. 11 A-B. Turning to Fig. 11A, for example, the buckle apparatus 190 is shown as comprise a main body (or frame) member 191. The main body member 191 can have any suitable shape, such as a round shape, a rounded shape and/or an oval shape, and can define a central opening 192. In other words, the main body member 191 can define a periphery of the central opening 192. A first bar member 193 can extend from the main body member 191 and into the central opening 192. As shown in Fig. 11 A, the first bar member 193 can include first and second end regions 192A, 192B. The first end region 192A of the first bar member 193 can couple with a first coupling location 191A of the main body member 191; whereas, the second end region 192B of the first bar member 193 can couple with a second coupling location 191B of the main body member 191. A roller member 194 can be disposed about a periphery of the first bar member 193 and, in some embodiments, permitted to rotate relatively to the first bar member 1 3. [0090] Additionally and/or alternatively, a second bar member 195 can extend from the main body member 191 and into the central opening 192. The second bar member 195 can include first and second end regions 195C, 195D. The first end region 195C of the second bar member 195 can couple with a third coupling location 191C of the main body member 191; whereas, the second end region 195D of the second bar member 195 can couple with a fourth coupling location 191D of the main body member 191. The third coupling location 191C of the main body member 191 can be displaced from the first coupling location 191 A of the main body member 191 by a first predetermined distance. The fourth coupling location 19 ID of the main body member 191 can be displaced from the second coupling location 191B of the main body member 191 by a second predetermined distance. In selected embodiments, the second predetermined distance can be equal to the first predetermined distance.

[0091] A prong member 196 can extend from a periphery of the second bar member 195. Turning to Fig. 1 IB, the prong member 196 can extends away from the first bar member 193. The prong member 196, for instance, can comprise one or more members. A prong base member 197 can be coupled with the second bar member 195 and extend away from the first bar member 193. A prong extension member 198 can be coupled with the prong base member 197 and can extend in a different direction. As shown in Fig. 1 IB, for example, the prong extension member 198 can extend in a plane that is parallel with a plane of the main body member 191. In selected embodiments, the prong base member 197 and the prong extension member 198 can be formed as a single member.

[0092] Fig. 11C is a detail drawing that illustrates an exemplary embodiment of the buckle apparatus 190 shown in Figs. 11A-B. A perspective view of the buckle apparatus 190 of Fig. 11C is illustrated in Fig. 1 ID. Turning to Figs. 11E-F, exemplary dimensions for the main body member 191, the first bar member 193, the second bar member 195 and other members of the buckle apparatus 190 shown in Figs. 11 A-B are illustrated. Although the exemplary dimensions are shown and described, the main body member 191, the first bar member 193, the second bar member 195 and other members of the buckle apparatus 190 can be provided with any suitable dimensions, without limitation.

[0093] In use, the buckle apparatus 190 advantageously can engage a belly strap 120 of the interface pad system 100 as illustrated in Figs. 12A-B. As illustrated in Figs. 12A-B, the belly strap 120 can define a series of holes (or notches) 121 along a length of the belly strap 120. The belly strap 120 can pass adjacent to the roller member 194 of the first bar member 193. A rotation of the roller member 194 can facilitate the passing of the belly strap 120 adjacent to the first bar member 193. The belly strap 120 can pass through the central opening 192 defined by the main body member 191 such that the notches 121 are adjacent to the prong member 196. The prong member 196 thereby can be received by a selected notch 121 and thereby engage the belly strap 120. The belly strap 120 thereby can be sized for the horse 200 or other animal .

[0094] As used herein, a phrase in the form of at least one of A, B, C and D herein is to be construed as meaning one or more of A, one or more of B, one or more of C and/or one or more of D. Likewise, a phrase in the form of A, B, C or D as used herein is to be construed as meaning A or B or C or D. For example, a phrase in the form of A, B, C or a combination thereof is to be construed as meaning A or B or C or any combination of A, B and/or C.

[0095] The disclosed embodiments are susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, and specific examples thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawings and are herein described in detail. It should be understood, however, that the disclosed embodiments are not to be limited to the particular forms or methods disclosed, but to the contrary, the disclosed embodiments are to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. An interface pad system for a ridable animal, comprising: a flexible central body member being configured to conform with an external periphery of a back of the ridable animal and having a frontal region, a rear region disposed a predetermined body length from the frontal region, a first side region and a second side region disposed at a predetermined body width from the first side region; a plurality of elongated billets being distributed along the predetermined body length of said central body member and having first end regions being positioned adjacent to the first side region of said central body member and second end regions being positioned adjacent to the second side region of said central body member; a first elongated belly strap having a first proximal end region being coupled with the first end regions of said elongated billets and a first distal end region extending from the first side region of said central body member; and a second elongated belly strap having a second proximal end region being coupled with the second end regions of said elongated billets and a second distal end region extending from the second side region of said central body member and being configured to engage the first distal end region of the first elongated belly strap, wherein said elongated billets are configured to distribute a weight of a rider across the back of the ridable animal providing increased comfort for both the ridable animal and the rider.

2. The interface pad system of claim 1, wherein said central body member comprises a lower layer for engaging the back of the ridable animal, an upper layer being opposite the lower layer and providing a seating area for a rider, and one or more intermediate middle layers being disposed between the lower layer and the upper layer.

3. The interface pad system of claim 2, wherein the lower layer is formed from a breathable moisture-wicking material for distributing sweat from the ridable animal.

4. The interface pad system of claim 2 or claim 3, wherein at least one of the intermediate middle layers comprises a padding layer for absorbing energy generated between the ridable animal and the rider.

5. The interface pad system of any one of claims 2-4, wherein said central body member includes a pair of intermediate middle layers, and wherein said elongated billets are disposed between the pair of intermediate middle layers.

6. The interface pad system of any one of claims 2-5, wherein the intermediate middle layers spans from the frontal region to the rear region of said central body member and spans between the first and second side regions of said central body member.

7. The interface pad system of any one of claims 2-6, wherein the first end regions of said elongated billets are coupled with the first proximal end region of the first elongated belly strap via a first coupling device, the first proximal end region of the first elongated belly strap engaging a first portion of the first coupling device, the first end regions of said elongated billets engaging a second portion of the first coupling device and extending from the first coupling device in divergent directions.

8. The interface pad system of claim 7, wherein the first coupling device comprises a first D-ring, the first portion of the first coupling device comprising a flat portion of the first D- ring and the second portion of the first coupling device comprising a rounded portion of the first D-ring.

9. The interface pad system of claim 8, wherein the first D-ring comprises a double D- ring.

10. The interface pad system of any one of claims 2-9, wherein the second end regions of said elongated billets are coupled with the second proximal end region of the second elongated belly strap via a second coupling device, the second proximal end region of the second elongated belly strap engaging a first portion of the second coupling device, the second end regions of said elongated billets engaging a second portion of the second coupling device and extending from the second coupling device in divergent directions.

1 1 . The interface pad system of claim 10, wherein the second coupling device comprises a second D-ring, the first portion of the second coupling device comprising a flat portion of the second D-ring and the second portion of the second coupling device comprising a rounded portion of the second D-ring.

12. The interface pad system of claim 11, wherein the second D-ring comprises a double D-ring.

13. The interface pad system of any one of claims 7-12, wherein the first coupling device is at least partially enclosed by the lower layer and the upper layer adjacent at the first side region of said central body member.

14. The interface pad system of any one of claims 7-13, wherein the second coupling device is at least partially enclosed by the lower layer and the upper layer adjacent at the second side region of said central body member.

15. The interface pad system of any one of claims 2-14, further comprising a handle member being coupled with a first elongated billet adjacent to the frontal region of said central body member and extending through the upper layer between the frontal region of said central body member and the seating area for the rider.

16. The interface pad system of any one of claims 1 -15, wherein four elongated billets are evenly distributed along the predetermined body length of said central body member.

17. The interface pad system of any one of claims 1-16, further comprising a strap member extending from said flexible central body member and being configured to releasably couple with an object for use by the rider.

18. The interface pad system of claim 17, wherein said strap member is configured to releasably couple with a water bottle.

19. The interface pad system of any one of claims 1-18, wherein the second distal end region of the second elongated belly strap is configured to directly engage with the first distal end region of the first elongated belly strap.

20. The interface pad system of any one of claims 1-19, further comprising a belly pad member for coupling the first distal end region of the first elongated belly strap with the second distal end region of the second elongated belly strap.

21. The interface pad system of claim 20, wherein said belly pad member comprises: a flexible belly pad body member being configured to conform with an external periphery of a belly of the ridable animal and having a frontal region, a rear region disposed a predetermined body length from the frontal region, a first side region and a second side region disposed at a predetermined body width from the first side region; and a plurality of second elongated billets being distributed along the predetermined body length of said belly pad body member and having first end regions and second end regions, each of the second elongated billets being disposed within said belly pad body member with the first end region being positioned adjacent to the first side region of said belly pad body member and the second end region being positioned adjacent to the second side region of said belly pad body member, wherein the first end regions of the second elongated billets are configured to couple with the first elongated belly strap and the second end regions of the second elongated billets are configured to couple with the second elongated belly strap.

22. The interface pad system of claim 21, wherein said belly pad body member comprises a lower layer for engaging the belly of the ridable animal, an upper layer being opposite the lower layer of said belly pad body member, and one or more intermediate middle layers being disposed between the lower layer of said belly pad body member and the upper layer of said belly pad body member.

23. The interface pad system of claim 22, wherein said belly pad body member includes a pair of intermediate middle layers, and wherein said second elongated billets are disposed between the pair of intermediate middle layers of said belly pad body member.

24. The interface pad system of claim 22 or claim 23, wherein the first end regions of said second elongated billets are configured for coupling with the first distal end region of the first elongated belly strap via a third coupling device, a first portion of the third coupling device being adapted to engage the first distal end region of the first elongated belly strap, the first end regions of said second elongated billets engaging a second portion of the third coupling device and extending from the third coupling device in divergent directions.

25. The interface pad system of claim 24, wherein the third coupling device comprises a first buckle apparatus.

26. The interface pad system of claim 25, wherein the first buckle apparatus comprises a first main body member having a first rounded periphery and defining a first body member opening, a first bar member extending from the first main body member into the first body member opening, a first roller member being disposed about a periphery of the first bar member and being permitted to rotate relatively to the first bar member, a second bar member extending from the first main body member into the first body member opening and a first prong member extending from a periphery of the second bar member and extending away from the first bar member, the first distal end region of the first elongated belly strap being received by a first central opening defined by the first bar member, the second bar member and the first rounded periphery of the first main body member and engaging the first prong member, the first end regions of said second elongated billets engaging the first rounded periphery of the first main body member.

27. The interface pad system of any one of claims 22-26, wherein the second end regions of said second elongated billets are configured for coupling with the second distal end region of the second elongated belly strap via a fourth coupling device, a first portion of the fourth coupling device being adapted to engage the second distal end region of the second elongated belly strap, the second end regions of said second elongated billets engaging a second portion of the fourth coupling device and extending from the fourth coupling device in divergent directions.

28. The interface pad system of claim 27, wherein the fourth coupling device comprises a second buckle apparatus.

29. The interface pad system of claim 28, wherein the second buckle apparatus comprises a second main body member having a second rounded periphery and defining a second body member opening, a third bar member extending from the second main body member into the second body member opening, a second roller member being disposed about a periphery of the third bar member and being permitted to rotate relatively to the third bar member, a fourth bar member extending from the second main body member into the second body member opening and a second prong member extending from a periphery of the fourth bar member and extending away from the third bar member, the second distal end region of the second elongated belly strap being received by a second central opening defined by the third bar member, the fourth bar member and the second rounded periphery of the second main body member and engaging the second prong member, the second end regions of said second elongated billets engaging the second rounded periphery of the second main body member.

30. A method for manufacturing an interface pad system including a flexible central body member being configured to conform with an external periphery of a back of the ridable animal and having a frontal region, a rear region disposed a predetermined body length from the frontal region, a first side region and a second side region disposed at a predetermined body width from the first side region, the method comprising: distributing a plurality of elongated billets having first end regions and second end regions along the predetermined body length of the central body member, the elongated billets spanning the predetermined body width of the central body member with the first end region being positioned adjacent to the first side region of the central body member and the second end region being positioned adjacent to the second side region of the central body member; coupling a first elongated belly strap having a first distal end region and a first proximal end region with the first end regions of the elongated billets with the first distal end region of the first elongated belly strap extending from the first side region of the central body member; and coupling a second elongated belly strap having a second distal end region and a second proximal end region with the second end regions of the elongated billets with the second distal end region of the second elongated belly strap extending from the second side region of the central body member and being configured to engage the first distal end region of the first elongated belly strap, wherein the distributed billets are configured to distribute a weight of a rider across the back of the ridable animal.