Skate Quick Release

This application is a Continuation application which claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/219,172 entitled Modular Skate Riser filed on Jul. 7, 2023, which is a Continuation-in-Part application which claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/074,604 entitled Fore/Aft Dove Tail Adjustable Hockey Runner Assembly filed on Dec. 5, 2022, which is a Continuation patent application claiming priority to and the benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/500,876 entitled Adjustable Hockey Runner Assembly filed on Oct. 13, 2021, which is a Divisional patent application claiming priority to U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 16/581,133 entitled Adjustable Hockey Runner Assembly filed on Sep. 24, 2019, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

The present invention relates generally to an ice-skate riser assembly.

A fundamental interest in the human experience is sport. We will spend our wealth and resources on whatever sport/s piques our interest vying for the latest innovation that could possibly give us a competitive edge. The progression of sport innovations is easily recognized by sports equipment related filings over the years at the United States Patent and Trademark Office. In the field of hockey for example, hockey skates are generally comprised of a boot and steel blade bolted or fixed to the boot sole. Modern hockey skates typically include innovations such as a hard plastic shell that accepts a portion of the skate blade whereby the shell is bolted to the skate blade and may further act as an interface and attachment medium to the boot sole. With that the, the current state of hockey skate technology leaves open lots of problems yet to be solved in the march for the best hockey skate for a given purpose defined by the game.

It is to innovations related to improving hockey blades and runners that the subject matter disclosed herein is generally directed.

The present invention generally relates to a quick release riser arrangement that connects an ice-skate to an ice-skating boot.

Accordingly, certain embodiments contemplate a skate riser system comprising a riser defined between a boot adapter mount end and a skate runner mount end, wherein the riser is not adjustable. The skate riser system further comprises a boot adapter mount that is connected to the boot adapter mount end. The boot adapter mount is configured to connect to a boot sole of a skate boot. A quick release shaft extends into a riser aperture in the riser between the ends. The quick release shaft comprises a key that retains a skate runner mount to the riser when in a first position/orientation but not when in a second position/orientation.

Yet another embodiment of the present invention envisions a skate riser and quick release apparatus comprising a static riser having a boot adapter mount configured to attach to a boot sole, and a skate runner mount that extends from a skate runner. The skate runner mount can be removably connected to the static riser via a quick release shaft that extends through the skate runner mount and at least a portion of the static riser.

Another embodiment of the present invention contemplates a method for disengaging a skate runner from a skate boot. The method is to a riser that comprises a boot adapter mount configured to attach to a boot sole at one end and a skate runner mount at the other end. The skate runner mount extends from a skate runner. One step is for engaging a retaining extension that extends from the skate runner mount in an overlapping relationship with the riser, wherein when in the overlapping relationship a runner mount retaining channel of the retaining extension aligns with a riser channel of the riser. Another step is a step for locking the retaining extension to the riser via a quick release shaft that extends through the riser channel and the runner mount retaining channel.

Initially, this disclosure is by way of example only, not by limitation. Thus, although the instrumentalities described herein are for the convenience of explanation, shown and described with respect to exemplary embodiments, it will be appreciated that the principles herein may be applied equally in other similar configurations involving the subject matter directed to the field of the invention. The phrases “in one embodiment”, “according to one embodiment”, and the like, generally mean the particular feature, structure, or characteristic following the phrase, is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention and may be included in more than one embodiment of the present invention. Importantly, such phases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. If the specification states a component or feature “may”, “can”, “could”, or “might” be included or have a characteristic, that particular component or feature is not required to be included or have the characteristic. As used herein, the terms “having”, “have”, “including” and “include” are considered open language and are synonymous with the term “comprising”. Furthermore, as used herein, the term “essentially” is meant to stress that a characteristic of something is to be interpreted within acceptable tolerance margins known to those skilled in the art in keeping with typical normal world tolerance, which is analogous with “more or less.” For example, essentially flat, essentially straight, essentially on time, etc. all indicate that these characteristics are not capable of being perfect within the sense of their limits. Accordingly, if there is no specific +/−value assigned to “essentially”, then assume essentially means to be within +/−2.5% of exact. The term “connected to” as used herein is to be interpreted as a first element physically linked or attached to a second element and not as a “means for attaching” as in a “means plus function”. In fact, unless a term expressly uses “means for” followed by the gerund form of a verb, that term shall not be interpreted under 35 U.S.C. § 112(f). In what follows, similar or identical structures may be identified using identical callouts. Further, the term “one” is synonymous with “a”, which may be a first of a plurality.

With respect to the drawings, it is noted that the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale and are diagrammatic in nature to illustrate features of interest. Descriptive terminology such as, for example, upper/lower, top/bottom, horizontal/vertical, left/right and the like, may be adopted with respect to the various views or conventions provided in the figures as generally understood by an onlooker for purposes of enhancing the reader's understanding and is in no way intended to be limiting. All embodiments described herein are submitted to be operational irrespective of any overall physical orientation unless specifically described otherwise, such as elements that rely on gravity to operate, for example.

Described herein are various multi-degree of freedom ice-skate risers with a quick release system that connects an ice-skate blade to the sole of an ice-skating boot generally which provides advantages of multiple degrees of freedom between the ice-skate blade and the ice-skating boot. Certain embodiments comprise a plurality of various offset risers that include a pronate/supinate platform, a bi-directional module and a side/side module. In some configurations, the pronate/supinate platform is connected with the ice-skate blade and is configured to move the ice-skate blade in a pronate and supinate direction. In some configurations the pronate supinate platform is connected with the bi-directional module providing offsets of the ice-skate blade in the fore and aft position.

Referring to the drawings in general, and more specifically to, shown therein is an illustration of a skate/blade runner embodiment constructed in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In what follows, similar or identical structures may be identified using identical callouts.

illustratively depict a skate runnerdefined by an elongated skate runner bodythat spans between a front endand a rear endand has a blade heightthat extends between a bottom regionin the top region. As shown in conjunction with, the bottom regiondefines a bottom widthand the top regiondefines a top widththat terminates at a top surface. A blade edge, which in the present embodiment is concave, is adapted to contact an ice sheet (not shown). The blade edgeis located at the distal edge of the bottom region. In the present embodiment, the bottom widthis wider than the top width, which provides a weight reduction. The top regionjoins the bottom regionby way of a stress relieving radius. The stress relieving radiusinhibits crack formation between the top regionand the bottom region. Certain embodiments envision the stress relieving radiushaving a circular curvature. The present embodiment envisions a unitary skate runnermade up of stainless steel. Other embodiments envision skate runner made of different materials, such as titanium for example. In the present embodiment, the skate runnerhas a leading rounded front edgelocated in the front blade regionand trailing rounded rear edgelocated in a rear blade region. Between the front edgeand the rear edgeis a slightly arced middle region. Certain embodiments envision the skate heightbeing between 0.75-2.5 inches, the bottom widthbeing between 1/16 inches and 3/16 inches and the top widthbeing between 1/32 inches and ⅛ inches. Other certain embodiments envision the bottom regionhaving a height that is one-half of the top region. Yet other embodiments envision the top regionbeing approximately ⅓ of the overall skate height. The front blade region, the arced middle blade region, and the rear blade regiondefine the overall lengthof the skate runner.

The present embodiment depicts a plurality of serrated protrusionsthat extend along the top regionof the skate runner bodyto provide a means for fixedly attaching an overmold to the top regionalso shown by the isometric view of the skate runnerin. As will be discussed infra, certain embodiments envision a skate runner essentially encapsulated by an overmold in the top region. The overmold mechanically locks to the top regionby infiltrating between the semicircles or other shapes in the top region. In this way, these adhesion featuresprovide enhanced shear strength. In the present embodiment, the serrated protrusionsare one of many different shapes that can accomplish the task of mechanically locking the top regionto in overmold. With special attention, a single serrated protrusion(of the many serrated protrusions) in the Circle-A is magnified in. As shown in, there is a bulbous endat the tip of the single serrated protrusionto improve adhering the overmold with the tip region.

illustratively depict line drawings of several other profile embodiments of a skate runner cross-section consistent with embodiments of the present invention. With reference to, a skate runnerpossesses a skate runner bodythat is essentially a uniform width, which in certain embodiments can have overmold adhesion features such as holes/perforations, countersinks, counterbores, serrations, undercuts extending into the top regionor other shear strength enhancing arrangements, (see).depicts an optional skate runner embodimentthat illustratively shows a thinner top regionto accommodate a reduced weight runner blade with a lipthat runs at least along a portion of the top edge of the top region to lock the blade's upper region to an overmold. Though embodiments of the present invention envision a top region devoid of adhesion features within overmold, such a configuration may have adhesion disadvantages.

illustratively depicts yet another embodiment of a skate runner consistent with embodiments of the present invention. As shown, the skate runnerpossesses a smooth top edgewith a narrower width in the top regionas compared to the lower/bottom region. The skate runnerpossesses circular perforationsthat pass through the top portionto create anchor points for an overmold. Though eight pass-through holesare shown, there can be more or less without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention. Certain embodiments envision different shaped perforations and in different orientations while maintaining functionality consistent with that of the present invention. Though the skate runner bladepossesses perforated holes, other embodiments envision countersinks and/or counterbores that do not fully extend through the blade.

illustratively depict another embodiment of a skate runner consistent with embodiments of the present invention. Much like, the skate runnerpossesses a smooth top edgewith a narrower width at the top region than the lower region. The skate runnerpossesses pairs of circular bumpsthat protrude from the side of the top region. A cross-section of the circular bumpsis illustratively shown in. As one skilled in the art will appreciate from the benefit of understanding the present application any number of protruding shapes and combinations of protruding shapes that improve the mechanical bonding of an overmold to the upper regioncan be envisioned without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention.

illustratively depict line drawings of a skate runner blade coupled with an overmold core consistent with embodiments of the present invention. With reference to, the top regionof the skate runner(or a different embodiment of a skate runner, such as skate runner,,,, or other within the scope and spirit of the present invention), is essentially encased in an overmold core. The overmold coreessentially runs the length of the skate runnerfrom the front endto the rear end, as shown in.illustratively depicts a line drawing of a cross sectional view along cross-section line B-B of. As shown, the overmold coreextends verticallyto cover the blade topand terminating at an over mold core top. Some embodiments envision the overmold coreextending beyond the blade top, which in certain instances could be between 0.025-0.5 inches. The overmold coreis envisioned fixedly attaching to, or otherwise locking over, the top regionof the skate runner. The overmold corecan encapsulate the attachment features, such as featuresorfor example, or pass-through any through holes, such as the circular perforationsfor example. Other embodiments envision the overmold corebeing a unitary piece of material that can be a polymer (such as nylon), foam, carbon fiber, a glass filled composite, metallic or some other materials known to those skilled in the art. Certain embodiments envision the overmold coreconstructed from a dampening material such as rubber or an engineered material with directionally engineered dampening properties. Optionally, the overmold corecan be constructed from different materials to provide variable stiffnesses along the length of overmold core.

illustratively depict line drawings of a skate runner blade and overmold core coupled with a skate overmoldconsistent with embodiments of the present invention.is an isometric line drawing of the skate runner bladeand overmold corethat is essentially encased by the skate overmold. As shown, the skate overmoldessentially runs the length of the skate runnerfrom the front endto the rear endleaving the blade portionexposed/uncovered. In the present embodiment, the skate overmoldcomprises a front mounting surfaceand a rear mounting surface.

illustratively depicts a top view line drawing of the skate overmoldwherein the front mounting surfaceand the rear mounting surfaceare essentially planar with the page. The mounting surfacesandare configured to attach the skate runnerand over moldeither directly or indirectly to the soleof an ice-skating boot. Specifically, each of the mounting surfacesandpossesses a female interlocking mount sleeve/receptacle, which in this embodiment is at least one circular holeand a female slot and rib arrangementadapted to receive a male counterpart, discussed later. The mounting surfacesandcan be a unitary part of the skate overmoldor optionally fittings that attach or are molded into the skate overmold. In the present embodiment, the skate overmoldcomprises a center seamwhere two halves of the skate overmoldare compressed together wedging the overmold corethere between, while other embodiments envision the skate overmoldformed of a unitary piece of material. Some embodiments envision the mounting surfacesandbeing formed from the same material as the skate overmold, while other embodiments envision the mounting surfacesandformed out of a different material than the skate case that, such as metal or carbon composite for example.

illustratively depicts a side view line drawing of the skate runnerand overmoldwith a cross-section line A-A passing through the rear mounting surface.

illustratively depicts a cross-section line drawing along cross-section line B-B. As shown, the skate overmoldis defined by a sidewallthat extends between a blade/overmold (blade to overmold) interfaceand an overmold top surface, which in this perspective is the rear mounting surface. Certain embodiments envision the skate overmoldbeing comprised of a different material than the overmold coreto create a material mismatch thereby reducing vibrational effects caused by relative motion at the interfaceof the blade edgewith an ice sheet. In the present embodiment, it is easily seen that the skate overmoldcompletely encases the overmold core, however other embodiments are not so limiting. For reference, a neutral planeis defined in the Z′ direction along a central axis, that is centrally located, in the bottom widthin the vertical directionand essentially along the blade lengthin the X′ as shown by the vertically hashed plane.

illustratively depict a line drawing of a standalone rib and backbone interlocking mount embodiment consistent with embodiments of the present invention.shows a bottom perspective line drawing view of a standalone interlocking mountA with ribsdispersed along a spinebetween two cylindrical endsA. The cylindrical endsA comprise threaded through-holesconfigured to receive threaded bolts (not shown). The standalone interlocking mountA cooperates with one of the matching sleeves/receptacleswherein the bottom standalone mount surfaceA interfaces the bottom of the sleeve/receptacle. In other words, the standalone interlocking mountsA fit into the sleevelike puzzle pieces, as can appreciated by the identical male and female geometriesA and. The interlocking mountsA can be fixedly attached into the cooperating sleeves(such as by glue, adhesive, mechanically attached or by other methods known to those skilled in the art).illustratively shows a top view of the standalone interlocking mountA wherein certain embodiments envision the top surfacebeing flush with the mounting surfaceor.

Though not limited to the riband spineconfiguration, the present configuration provides distributed load and stiffness as well as additional adhesive contact area when affixed to the overmold. The standalone interlocking mountsA provide support for a digital adjusting system discussed later.

illustratively depict line drawings of mounting plate embodiments with interlocking mounts consistent with embodiments of the present invention. As shown in, the interlocking mountsB is more or less identical toA except that the interlocking mountB extend from the bottom mounting plate surfaceof the mounting plate. Similar parts ofare denoted herein as ‘A’ and ‘B’ because though they are different elements they are configured similarly as will be appreciated in the description and figures. Each of the interlocking mountsB are configured to cooperate with a matching sleeve/receptaclewherein the bottom standalone mount surfaceB interfaces the bottom of the sleeve/receptacle. The identical but opposite male and female geometriesB andclosely conform to one another. The interlocking mountsB can be fixedly attached into the cooperating sleeves(such as by glue, adhesive, mechanically attached or by other methods known to those skilled in the art). Certain embodiments envision the mounting plateand the male interlocking mountB being of unitary construction. Certain other embodiments envision the mounting plateand the male interlocking mountB being made out of metal, polymer, nylon, carbon composite, glass filled, or other materials known to those skilled in the art.

illustratively depicts a line drawing top view of a mounting plate embodiment ofconsistent with embodiments of the present invention. The mounting platecomprises an arced top surfacethat in some embodiments tracks a portion of a cylinder as shown. The cylinder segmentis defined as arcing around a contact axis(see). The rocker high pointof the blade edgedefines the contact axiswhen the blade edgeis in the neutral plane. The mounting platepossesses two bolt receiving tapped holesadapted to receive threaded bolts (not shown here). The mounting plateis defined by a front surfaceand a back surface, whereby certain embodiments envision pronate/supinate graduated indiciavisibly disposed on at least the front surface.illustratively depicts a line drawing of the front surfaceof the mounting plateshowing the pronate/supinate graduated indicia. Certain other embodiments envision the pronate/supinate graduated indiciacomprising numbers, degrees, or other reference markings. In the present embodiment, the bottom mounting plate surfaceis flat and interfaces/mates to one of the flat mounting surfacesfor. Certain other embodiments contemplate the bottom mounting plate surfacefurther adhering to the mounting surfaceor. Other embodiments envision the bottom mounting plate surfaceand the interlocking mountB being removably connected to a mounting surfaceor.

illustratively depict line drawings of various views of mounting plate embodiments attached to the front and back mounting surfaces consistent with embodiments of the present invention.shows a top view line drawing of a mounting plateconnected with a front mounting surfaceand a mounting plateconnected with a rear mounting surface.illustratively shows a side view line drawing of front mounting surfaceand rear mounting surfaceeach connected with a mounting plate. A cross-section line A-A passing through the rear mounting surfaceand mounting plateis shown.illustratively depicts a line drawing isometric view of mounting platesconnected with the front mounting surfaceand the rear mounting surface.illustratively shows a cross-section view of the relationship of the skate runner, the overmold core, the skate overmoldand the mounting plateconnected to the rear mounting surface. In the present embodiment, the aforementioned components,,, andare symmetric in regards with the neutral plane. Also shown is one of the bolt receiving tapped holesin the mounting platethat is adapted and configured to receive a threaded bolt (not shown here).

are line drawings illustratively depict an overview of a multi-degree of freedom adjustment post arrangement consistent with embodiments of the present invention. A post is optionally referred to herein as a riser.illustratively depicts a side view line drawing of a skate assemblythat includes the skate runnerand skate overmoldwith front and rear multi-degree of freedom arrangementsand. The front and rear multi-degree of freedom arrangementsandessentially take the place of a static ice-skate post that connects a skate blade to a skate boot sole. Hence, the front and rear multi-degree of freedom arrangementsandcan also be considered front and rear multi-degree of freedom skate postsand. As shown in, the front multi-degree of freedom arrangementis adjustably connected with the front mounting surfaceand mounting plateand can be moved in the Xdirection. The rear multi-degree of freedom arrangementis adjustably connected with the rear mounting surfaceand mounting plateand can be moved in the Xdirection. The Xand Xdirections are synonymously used herein with the terminology ‘fore’ and ‘aft’ directions. The front multi-degree of freedom arrangementattaches to the ice-skating boot front endat front attachment plate. The rear multi-degree of freedom arrangementattaches to the ice-skating boot rear endat rear attachment plate. Certain embodiments contemplate the front and rear attachment platesandbeing convex to conform to the shape of lift rings(as shown in). Also as shown, the rocker high pointof the blade edgedefines the contact axiswhen the blade edgeis in the neutral plane(such as when the blade edgeis in contact with a sheet of ice.

The front and rear multi-degree of freedom arrangementsandeach possess a bi-directional locking moduleA andB, respectively discussed in more detail in conjunction with. Because the bi-directional locking modulesA andB are responsible for the Xand Xdirections, certain embodiments envision disengaging the skate runnerand skate overmoldwith front and rear multi-degree of freedom arrangementsandwhen the bi-directional locking modulesA andB are loosened. When the front and rear multi-degree of freedom arrangementandare attached to the soleof an ice-skate boot, disengaging the skate runnerand skate overmoldfront and rear multi-degree of freedom arrangementsandeffectively disengages the skate runnerand skate overmoldfrom the ice-skate boot. This can facilitate swapping out a different skate runnerand skate over moldquickly and easily. A different skate runnerand skate over moldcan include a longer blade, a thinner blade, a more flexible blade, a different material blade, a sharpened blade, etc.

illustratively depicts a line drawing of a front view of the skate assemblyembodiment with the front multi-degree of freedom arrangementconsistent with embodiments of the present invention. Here, the front multi-degree of freedom arrangementis adjustable in the Zdirections, also referred to herein as up and down directions and α angular rotation, and the positive and negative direction as indicated by the two-way arrow also referred to herein as pronate/supinate angle.

illustratively depicts a line drawing of a rear view of the skate assemblyembodiment with the rear multi-degree of freedom arrangementconsistent with embodiments of the present invention. Here, the rear multi-degree of freedom arrangementis adjustable in the Zdirections, and a angular rotation and the positive and negative direction as indicated by the two-way arrow.

illustratively depicts a top view line drawing of the skate assemblyembodiment consistent with embodiments of the present invention. As shown here, the front multi-degree of freedom arrangementcan be made to move in a side to side direction Yas shown, also referred to herein as ‘side/side’, and an angular rotation ϕin the same plane as the side direction Y. Similarly, the rear multi-degree of freedom arrangementcan be made to move in a side to side direction Yas shown, and an angular rotation ϕin the same plane as the side direction Y. Hence, the front multi-degree of freedom arrangementcan be made to move in at least the Y, X, ϕ, α directions and the rear multi-degree of freedom arrangementcan be made to move in at least the Y, X, ϕ, α directions. As will be appreciated based on the present description, the skate runnercan be moved with respect/relative to the boot soleindependently (from a different degree of freedom) in each degree of freedom. In other words, one adjustment direction is not required to be dependent on a different adjustment direction.

With reference to the top portion of the front multi-degree of freedom arrangement, the front attachment plateis shown cooperating with an elongated washerthat slidingly fits in an even longer elongated washer recess. The front attachment plate, elongated washercan be fixedly locked into position via a threaded top bolt. For purposes of description, a threaded bolt possesses a threaded bolt shaft and bolt head all of which are uniformly described under the element a threaded bolt, which in this case is the threaded boltbut is not limited in this disclosure to the threaded bolt. In certain embodiments, the threaded top bolt headis inside of a boot solethereby locking the front attachment plate, elongated washerand fixedly attaching the front multi-degree of freedom arrangementto the outside of the boot sole. In other words, the top boltcan be used to fixedly attach the front multi-degree of freedom arrangementto the outside of an ice-skating boot sole. Likewise, top portion of the rear multi-degree of freedom arrangement, the front attachment plateis shown cooperating with an elongated washerthat slidingly fits in an even longer elongated washer recess. The rear attachment plate, elongated washercan be fixedly locked into position via a threaded top bolt. The threaded top bolt headcan fixedly attach the rear attachment plate, elongated washerand the rear multi-degree of freedom arrangementto the outside of the boot sole. Accordingly, the two the top boltscan be used to fixedly attached the front multi-degree of freedom arrangementand the rear multi-degree of freedom arrangementto the outside of an ice-skating boot sole.

illustratively depicts an isometric line drawing of the skate assemblythat includes the skate runnerand skate overmoldbuilt up with front and rear multi-degree of freedom arrangementsand. As shown, the front multi-degree of freedom arrangementis shown built up with the front attachment platecooperating with the elongated washerthat slidingly fits in the even longer elongated washer recess. As can be more easily seen from this vantage, the front attachment plate, elongated washercan be fixedly locked into position via a threaded top bolt. Likewise, as shown, the rear multi-degree of freedom arrangementis shown built up with the rear attachment platecooperating with the elongated washerthat slidingly fits in the even longer elongated washer recessall fixedly held in place with the threaded bolt headpulling/compressing all the components into compression.

illustratively depicts the skate assemblyconnected with an ice-skate bootconsistent with embodiments of the present invention. As depicted, the threaded boltsconnect the ice-skate boot soleto the front and rear multi-degree of freedom arrangementsandat the front and rear attachment platesand, respectively.

illustratively depict line drawings of a pronate/supinate platform embodiment consistent with embodiments of the present invention.is an isometric line drawing of a pronate/supinate platformthat is adjustably connected/attached to a mounting plate. The geometry of the platform bottom surfacematches the convex arc cylindrical segmentof the mounting plateto rotate left and right in a sliding manner about the cylindrical segment. In other words, the platform bottom surfaceis a concave arc that can rock angularly side by side about the convex arc cylinder segmentof the mounting platewhen in contact (in a mating/cooperating relationship). As also shown in, pronate/supinate platformhas a pair of rectangular square nut cages, one at the platform frontand one at the platform rear. The square nut cagesare recesses that essentially trap a square nutfrom turning when tightened down when screwed into place via a threaded bolt, as shown. The bottom of each square nut cagehas a slotted holefor the threaded boltto go through, see. The threaded boltengages and screws into a respective tapped holein the mounting plate, which in some embodiments are the two cylindrical threaded endsB on the undersideof the mounting plate(see). In this way, the pronate/supinate platformcan rock angularly side by side in a sliding fashion about the cylindrical segment. The threaded boltscan lock the pronate/supinate platformin a desired position when tightened.

illustratively depict pronate and supinate motion of the pronate/supinate platformrelative to the mounting plateconsistent with embodiments of the present invention. In, the pronate/supinate platformis in a neutral position(0° offset) on the mounting plate. When in the neutral position, a pronate/supinate centerline pointeris in the center graduated indiciumA of the pronate/supinate graduated indiciaindicating to an onlooker of the neutral position. The threaded boltcan be tightened in each respective tapped holethereby compressing and rigidly fixing the pronate/supinate platformand the mounting platetogether. Certain embodiments contemplate interlocking features at the convex and concave arced interfaceandto assist in locking the pronate/supinate platformand the mounting platetogether. To move or otherwise adjust the pronate/supinate platformto either be in a pronation positionor a supination position, a user needs to loosen each respective the threaded boltand move the pronate/supinate platformto a desired position along the pronate/supinate graduated indicia. Once in the desired position the threaded boltcan be tightened down to clamp the pronate/supinate platformand the mounting platetogether. The front profile of the fore/aft male interlocking slide mount, which in this embodiment is a dovetailis shown here and as shown in other figures, extends towards the fore/aft dovetail topof the pronate/supinate platform. The male interlocking slide mount is configured to engage a female interlocking slide mount receptacle, such as a dovetail channel. As shown in, the fore/aft dovetailalso extends longitudinally parallel to the contact axisalong the pronate/supinate platform top surface, which is to the concave arcobverse (i.e., on the other side of the pronate/supinate platform). The fore/aft graduated indiciaare visibly disposed on at least one pronate/supinate platform side surfacealong the side of the fore/aft dovetail. In the present embodiment, the fore/aft graduated indiciahave a centerline that is longer than the other fore/aft graduated indiciato mark the neutral fore/aft position. Embodiments of the present invention commonly use a dovetail and channel configuration as an example of a male interlocking slide mount and female interlocking slide mount receptacle whereby optional structures can be used without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention are envisioned and obvious with the benefit of understanding the present invention. Optional structures can include elements such as spheres in a channel, round profile bars in a channel, other shaped bars (different from a dovetail) and compatible channel, or other shaped male and female parts that accomplish the same motion while maintaining the same functionality within the scope and spirit of the present invention.

shows the pronate/supinate platformin a pronation positionon the mounting plate. In this far pronation position, the pronate/supinate centerline pointeris pointing to the far right graduated indiciumB of the pronate/supinate graduated indicia. The threaded boltcan be tightened in the respective tapped holethereby compressing and rigidly fixing the pronate/supinate platformand the mounting platetogether in the desired pronation position. Accordingly, the fore/aft dovetailand all other elements extending upward from the fore/aft dovetailare fixed/set in the pronation positionbased on the desired pronation setting, which is easily determined via the pronate/supinate centerline pointerand the desired graduated indicium. Likewise, as shown inby loosening the threaded bolt, the pronate/supinate platformcan be moved to a supination positionon the mounting plateand then fixed in position by retightening the threaded bolt. In this far left supination position, the pronate/supinate centerline pointeris in the far left graduated indiciumC of the pronate/supinate graduated indicia.

illustratively depicts a top view line drawing of the pronate/supinate platform embodimentadjusted to a different angular position on the mounting plate. As shown, the square nutsare shifted to the far side of the square nut cagesthereby changing the position of the fore/aft dovetailin either a supinated or a pronated position, depending on your point of reference (i.e., if this is a right skate runner or a left skate runner, for example). As discussed earlier, each square nut cageis essentially a recess with a bolt slotthat accommodates the shaft of the boltto pass-through the square nut cage floor, as shown. The bolt slotsallow the sliding movement of the pronate/supinate platformover the arced mounting platewhen the two elementsandare loosely connected together by the loosened but still engaged bolts. The square nutscooperating with the square nut cagesallow for an infinite number of positions within the rectangular length of each square nut cages. In the present embodiment, the pronate/supinate positions can be +/−4°, however other angular ranges, such as between +/−10°, or other, are envisioned within the scope and spirit of the present invention. As should be appreciated, when the threaded boltsare tightened down, the bolt headeffectively compresses the square nutinto the square nut cage floorfixedly clamping the pronate/supinate platformto the mounting plate. As described earlier in conjunction with, the threaded boltsscrew into the two cylindrical threaded endsB on the undersideof the mounting plate. When compressed, the frictional forces between these elements,,,anddominate holding these elements,,,andtightly together in a fixed manner.

illustratively depicts a side view line drawing of the pronate/supinate platform embodiment consistent with embodiments of the present invention. As shown, the pronate/supinate platformsits on top of the mounting platewith the fore/aft graduated indiciavisibly displayed just underneath the fore/aft dovetail. When in view of, it should be appreciated that the skate blade and runner/will effectively be angled in a desired pronate/supinate angle relative to an ice-skating boot solewhen the pronate/supinate platformis adjusted with respect to the mounting plate.

Certain embodiments envision the pronate/supinate platformnot having the dovetail, but rather extending directly into the ice-skating boot sole. This would effectively restrict the degree of freedom for the ice-skate (bootand skate blade) to the pronation and supination directions α.

are top view line drawings that illustratively depict different digital angled pronate/supinate platforms with nonadjustable fore/aft dovetail configurations consistent with embodiments of the present invention. Unlike the adjustable pronate/supinate platform, each digital pronate/supinate platformhas a fixed offset for the fore/aft dovetail measured in degrees. As shown here, there are a) a 0° (neutral) pronate/supinate positioned fore/aft dovetail; b) a 1° pronate/supinate positioned fore/aft dovetail; c) a 2° pronate/supinate positioned fore/aft dovetail; d) a 3° pronate/supinate positioned fore/aft dovetail; and e) a 4° pronate/supinate positioned fore/aft dovetail(even though 0-4 deg are shown, larger angles and different angles are envisioned). There are two platform through-holesspaced at either end of each digital pronate/supinate platformto align and attach to the threaded through-holesin cylindersA of the standalone interlocking mountA. In this embodiment, there is no need for the mounting plateor the other elements to facilitate pronate/supinate adjustability within a single system. Rather, this embodiment employs multiple single digital elements to accomplish altering the pronation and supination angle. Advantages of the standalone interlocking mountA and the digital pronate/supinate platformsincludes weight reduction and simpler parts. A disadvantage is freedom to adjust supination and pronation within a single systemand.

illustratively depict front view line drawings of the digital pronate/supinate platformsofconsistent with embodiments of the present invention. As shown, each of the fore/aft dovetails,,,, andare shifted in degrees on the digital platform base. Certain embodiments envision the digital pronate/supinate platformbeing constructed from a unitary piece of material, such as metal, polymer, nylon, carbon fiber composite, glass filled composite, or other materials known to those skilled in the art having functions applicable to that within the scope and spirit of the present invention. While other embodiments envision the digital pronate/supinate platformsbeing comprised of multiple parts with common or optionally different materials. When in view of, it should be appreciated that the skate blade and runner/will effectively be angled in a desired pronate/supinate angle relative to an ice-skating boot solewith each digital pronate/supinate platform(,,,, and) employed with the standalone interlocking mountA.

illustratively depict isometric line drawings of the digital pronate/supinate platformsas shown in. In this embodiment, each fore/aft digital dovetail,,,, andpossesses fore/aft graduated indiciavisibly displayed just underneath the respective fore/aft dovetail,,,, and. The digital fore/aft digital dovetails,,,, andare envisioned to seamlessly cooperate with a bi-directional locking dovetail modulediscussed below in conjunction with.

Certain embodiments envision the digital pronate/supinate platformsnot having the dovetails (,,,, and), but rather extending directly into the ice-skating boot sole. This would effectively restrict the degree of freedom for the ice-skate (bootand skate blade) to the incremental pronation and supination directions α.

illustratively depict line drawings of a bi-directional locking dovetail module embodiment in a neutral position consistent with embodiments of the present invention.in view ofillustratively depicts an isometric line drawing of a bi-directional locking dovetail modulecoupled with (i.e., engaged in a cooperating relationship) a pronate/supinate platformin a neutral position with respect to the connected mounting plate. Though not shown here, other certain embodiments contemplate the bi-directional locking dovetail modulecoupled with a digital pronate/supinate platformwithout any modification. With continued reference to, the bi-directional locking dovetail moduleincludes a threaded cylinderwith a fore/aft dovetail channelon the bottom sideof the threaded cylinder. The bi-directional locking dovetail modulefurther includes a side by side, or side/side, dovetail channelextending from the top sideof the threaded cylinder. The side/side dovetail channelis approximately 90° offset from the fore/aft dovetail channel. The fore/aft dovetail channelis shown engaged with the fore/aft dovetailon the pronate/supinate platformin a female to male relationship. As mentioned, the side/side dovetail channelruns, or otherwise extends, approximately 90 degrees from the fore/aft dovetail, facilitating side by side motion of a mating side/side dovetail, further described in. The side/side dovetail channelis defined by a pair of upper wedged shaped walls. Likewise, a pair of lower wedged shaped wallsdefines the fore/aft dovetail channel. As depicted, a lower threaded ringis cooperatively engaged with the threaded cylinder. As the lower threaded ringis tightened against the fore/aft dovetail topof the pronate/supinate platform, the bi-directional locking dovetail modulebecomes locked in a desired fore/aft position by way of contact compression between the fore/aft dovetailand the side wallsthat comprise the fore/aft dovetail channel. In other words, the fore/aft dovetailand the fore/aft dovetail channelare frictionally held/constrained together when mated under compression. Certain embodiments envision the lower threaded ringtightened by a human hand, but optionally could be tightened with a tool, such as a wrench (not shown). In some embodiments, the lower threaded ringpossesses gripsto assist in tightening down or loosening up the lower threaded ringfrom engagement with the fore/aft dovetail top. Accordingly, in this embodiment the bi-directional modulecan be adjusted in a desired fore or aft position by sliding the fore/aft dovetailinside of the fore/aft dovetail channelwhen the lower threaded ringit is not tightened down against the fore/aft dovetail top.

illustratively depicts a front view line drawing of the bi-directional locking dovetail moduleconsistent with embodiments of the present invention. In this figure, the fore/aft dovetail channelis engaged with the fore/aft dovetailon the pronate/supinate platformin a female to male relationship. As the lower threaded ringis twisted downwards along the cylinder threadsagainst the fore/aft dovetail top, the pair of lower wedged shaped walls, that form the fore/aft dovetail channel, pull against the fore/aft dovetail. This creates a contact compression which effectively locks the opposing dovetail componentsandtogether so that they are frictionally constrained in place, i.e., in the desired locked position. Also shown here is a side/side centerline pointer, which is located on the outside of at least one of the lower wedged shaped walls(which in some embodiments are on both the outer portionof the lower wedge shaped walls) for improved viewing by an onlooker.

illustratively depicts a top view line drawing of the bi-directional locking dovetail moduleengaged with the pronate/supinate platformin a neutral position with respect to the connected mounting plateconsistent with embodiments of the present invention.illustratively depicts a side view line drawing of the bi-directional locking dovetail moduleengaged with the pronate/supinate platformin a neutral position consistent with embodiments of the present invention. The neutral position is indicated by the fore/aft centerlinelining up with the center fore/aft graduated indiciumA.

illustratively depict line drawings of the bi-directional locking dovetail moduleadjusted in a front (fore) position consistent with embodiments of the present invention.is an isometric view of the bi-directional locking dovetail modulemoved/adjusted all the way forward on the pronate/supinate platform. As discussed previously, the lower threaded ringcan be loosened to facilitate easy movement of the fore/aft dovetail channelsliding over the fore/aft dovetail. Once in a desired forward position, the lower threaded ringcan be tightened to compress against the fore/aft dovetail topthereby effectively locking the fore/aft dovetailagainst the fore/aft dovetail channelin position. In the present embodiment, there is no stop on either end of the fore/aft dovetailfacilitating a quick release of the skate runnerand bladeif the bi-directional locking moduleis moved beyond engagement with the pronate/supinate platform. In other words, the fore/aft dovetail channelis simply slid away from the fore/aft dovetailcausing the bi-directional locking moduleto disengage with the pronate/supinate platform. When both of the front and the rear bi-directional locking modulesA andB (see) are disengaged with their respective pronate/supinate platformsthe skate blade and runner/will effectively disengage with the ice-skate bootthat is connected to the front and rear multi-degree of freedom arrangementsand. This creates a “quick release” method of removing the runner from the boot.

shows a side view line drawing of the bi-directional locking dovetail moduleadjusted in the front position as indicated by the fore/aft centerlinelining up with the far right fore/aft graduated indiciumB.depicts a top view of the bi-directional locking dovetail moduleengaged with the pronate/supinate platformin the front position with respect to the connected mounting plate. When both of the front and the rear bi-directional locking modulesA andB are moved together in a forward position, the skate blade and runner module/is effectively adjusted forward, accommodating a skater's desired fore/aft blade/position.