Inline Frame with Configurable Suspension

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/632,510, filed Apr. 10, 2024, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

The present disclosure relates generally to inline skate frames, and more particularly to an inline skate frame with configurable suspension.

Inline skates typically include a boot mounted on a frame that supports a plurality of wheels. Some inline skate frames incorporate suspension systems to absorb shocks and vibrations during skating. However, existing suspension systems often have fixed configurations that cannot be easily adjusted or changed by the user. There remains a need for an inline skate frame that provides multiple suspension configuration options to allow users to customize their skating experience.

The background description provided herein is for the purpose of generally presenting the context of the disclosure. Work of the presently named inventors, to the extent it is described in this background section, as well as aspects of the description that may not otherwise qualify as prior art at the time of filing, are neither expressly nor impliedly admitted as prior art against the present disclosure.

An inline skate frame is provided that allows a user to select between multiple suspension configurations. In some implementations, the inline skate frame includes a frame body and a plurality of rocker arms rotatably attached to the frame body. The rocker arms are configured to support wheels. The frame includes biasing members that can be positioned between opposing rocker arms. Stop pins can be selectively inserted through the frame body and biasing members to create different suspension characteristics. The frame allows conversion between no suspension, independent arm suspension, opposing arm suspension, and combinations thereof.

This section provides a general summary of the disclosure, and is not a comprehensive disclosure of its full scope or all of its features. Further areas of applicability will become apparent from the description provided herein. The description and specific examples in this summary are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views of the drawings.

In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof. In the drawings, similar symbols typically identify similar components, unless context dictates otherwise. The illustrative embodiments described in the detailed description, drawings, and claims are not meant to be limiting. Other embodiments may be utilized, and other changes may be made, without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matter presented here. It will be readily understood that the aspects of the present disclosure, as generally described herein, and illustrated in the Figures, can be arranged, substituted, combined, and designed in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which are explicitly contemplated and made part of this disclosure. Reference will now be made in detail to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts.

It should be appreciated that this description is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, various features are described herein in a certain order or arrangement, but such features may be combined, separated, or rearranged without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. In other instances, well-known features have not been described in detail to avoid unnecessarily complicating the description.

Throughout this specification and the claims, the terms “comprise,” “comprising,” “include,” “including,” and the like are to be understood to imply the inclusion of stated elements but not the exclusion of any other elements. The term “exemplary” is used in the sense of “example” rather than “ideal” or “model.” As used herein, the terms “about” or “approximately” apply to all numeric values, whether or not explicitly indicated. These terms generally refer to a range of numbers that one of skill in the art would consider equivalent to the recited values (i.e., having the same function or result).

Before the present articles, systems, apparatuses, and/or methods are disclosed and described, it is to be understood that they are not limited to specific methods unless otherwise specified, or to particular materials unless otherwise specified, as such can, of course, vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular aspects only and is not intended to be limiting. Although any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the present disclosure, example methods and materials are now described.

It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular aspects only and is not intended to be limiting. As used in the specification and in the claims, the term “comprising” can include the aspects “consisting of” and “consisting essentially of.” Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. In this specification and in the claims which follow, reference will be made to a number of terms which shall be defined herein.

As used herein, the terms “about” and “at or about” mean that the amount or value in question can be the value designated some other value approximately or about the same. It is generally understood, as used herein, that it is the nominal value indicated ±10% variation unless otherwise indicated or inferred. The term is intended to convey that similar values promote equivalent results or effects recited in the claims. That is, it is understood that amounts, sizes, formulations, parameters, and other quantities and characteristics are not and need not be exact, but can be approximate and/or larger or smaller, as desired, reflecting tolerances, conversion factors, rounding off, measurement error and the like, and other factors known to those of skill in the art. In general, an amount, size, formulation, parameter or other quantity or characteristic is “about” or “approximate” whether or not expressly stated to be such. It is understood that where “about” is used before a quantitative value, the parameter also includes the specific quantitative value itself, unless specifically stated otherwise.

The terms “first,” “second,” “first part,” “second part,” and the like, where used herein, do not denote any order, quantity, or importance, and are used to distinguish one element from another, unless specifically stated otherwise. As used herein, the terms “optional” or “optionally” means that the subsequently described event or circumstance can or cannot occur, and that the description includes instances where said event or circumstance occurs and instances where it does not. For example, the phrase “optionally affixed to the surface” means that it can or cannot be fixed to a surface.

Moreover, it is to be understood that unless otherwise expressly stated, it is in no way intended that any method set forth herein be construed as requiring that its steps be performed in a specific order. Accordingly, where a method claim does not actually recite an order to be followed by its steps or it is not otherwise specifically stated in the claims or descriptions that the steps are to be limited to a specific order, it is no way intended that an order be inferred, in any respect. This holds for any possible non-express basis for interpretation, including: matters of logic with respect to arrangement of steps or operational flow; plain meaning derived from grammatical organization or punctuation; and the number or type of aspects described in the specification.

It is understood that the apparatuses and systems disclosed herein have certain functions. Disclosed herein are certain structural requirements for performing the disclosed functions, and it is understood that there are a variety of structures that can perform the same function that are related to the disclosed structures, and that these structures will typically achieve the same result. The following description of various embodiments is merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the disclosure, its application, or uses.

Example embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. The following description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the present disclosure, application, or uses. It should be understood that throughout the drawings, corresponding reference numerals indicate like or corresponding parts and features.

Referring now to, an inline skate frameis shown according to some implementations. The frameincludes a frame bodyandand a plurality of rocker arms,,, and. In the illustrated example, the frameincludes four rocker arms,,, and, though other numbers of rocker arms may be used in other implementations. The rocker arms,,, andare rotatably attached to the frame bodyandby pivot axles. Wheels,,, andare rotatably attached within forks of each rocker arm,,, and. In some implementations, all four wheels may have the same diameter. In other implementations, wheels of different diameters may be used, such as larger diameter wheels at the front and rear positions and smaller diameter wheels at the middle positions. The frameis configured to allow multiple suspension configurations.

In some implementations, biasing members,, andmay be positioned between opposing rocker arms,,, and. The biasing members,, andmay be elastomeric springs in some examples. The biasing members,, andmay have a hole or hollow tube running lengthwise through their center. Stop pins,may be selectively inserted through aligned holes in the frame bodyandand biasing members,, and. When the stop pins,are inserted, they create a first suspension configuration where each rocker arm,,, andis independently biased against the frame bodyand. When the stop pins,are removed, a second suspension configuration is created where opposing rocker arms,,, andare biased against each other rather than the frame bodyand. The framealso allows for a no-suspension configuration by replacing the biasing members,, andwith non-elastomeric plugs between opposing rocker arms,,, and. This prevents movement of the rocker arms,,, andrelative to the frame bodyand.

Referring now to, the kinematics of the suspension system are illustrated.shows how the rocker arms,,, andcan pivot relative to the frame bodyand.illustrates the resulting movement of the wheels as the rocker arms,,, andpivot.shows how concepts of the configurable suspension system may be applied to other types of wheeled vehicles beyond inline skates.

The inline skate frame may comprise a frame body (:and). The frame body may be made of a suitable material such as cast metal or other materials that provide sufficient strength. The frame body may include stops to limit rotation of rocker arms (and). A plurality of rocker arms may be rotatably attached to the frame body (:,,, and). In some embodiments, the inline skate frame may include four rocker arms. The rocker arms may be identical for supporting wheels of the same diameter. Alternatively, the rocker arms may comprise two pairs of identical rocker arms for supporting wheels of different diameters. The rocker arms may be rotatably attached to the frame body by pivot axles (:). The pivot axles may have a one-piece design to allow for rotatable attachment of the rocker arms to the frame body. The rocker arms may include forks for wheel attachment (,:,,, and). Wheels may be rotatably attached within the forks of each rocker arm.

A plurality of biasing members may be positionable between opposing rocker arms (,:,, and). The biasing members may comprise elastomeric springs. The elastomeric springs may have an elliptical or circular hole running lengthwise through their center. The hole in the spring may align with holes of the same diameter on both sides of the frame body when installed. A plurality of stop pins may be selectively insertable through the frame body and biasing members (:,,,). The stop pins may fit through the aligned holes in the frame body and spring. In one or more embodiments, the elastomer spring can have an elliptical hole running down its center, lengthwise, that compresses to a desired diameter when the pair of arms, with spring, are installed within the frame body with a desired preload (,:). In, the springsare compressed to a desired preload when installed.

The inline skate frame may be configurable between different suspension configurations. In a first suspension configuration, the stop pins may be inserted to independently bias each rocker arm against the frame body. In a second suspension configuration, the stop pins may be removed to bias opposing rocker arms against each other. In a no-suspension configuration, the biasing members may be replaced with non-elastomeric plugs. The frame body and rocker arms may be configured to use reversible hardware (:,,,). This may eliminate the need for left and right sided parts, allowing for simplified assembly.

Referring now to, Diagramshows the movement of the rocker arms,,, andwith the stop pins,in place, illustrating the independent suspension configuration. In this configuration, each rocker arm,,, andmay be biased against the frame bodyandby the biasing members,, and. The stop pins,may limit the movement of the biasing members,, andrelative to the frame bodyand, causing each rocker arm,,, andto pivot independently around its respective pivot axle. This independent suspension may allow each wheel to respond individually to terrain variations.

Diagramofillustrates the stop pins,removed along with their retainers. This configuration may enable interdependent suspension where the rocker arms,,, andmay be biased against each other rather than against the frame bodyand. With the stop pins,removed, the biasing members,, andmay be free to move relative to the frame bodyand.

Turning to, Diagramdemonstrates the movement of the rocker arms,,, andand the frame bodyandwith the stop pins,removed. In this interdependent suspension configuration, the rocker arms,,, andmay be biased against each other by the biasing members,, and. This arrangement may allow the rocker arms,,, andand frame bodyandto move separately from each other within the limits set by the stops on the rocker arms and frame body. The interdependent suspension may provide a different ride characteristic compared to the independent suspension, potentially offering improved shock absorption or terrain adaptation in certain skating conditions.

The ability to switch between these suspension configurations by inserting or removing the stop pins,may provide users with versatility in adapting their inline skates to different terrains or skating styles. The independent suspension configuration may offer more precise control and stability, while the interdependent suspension may provide enhanced shock absorption and a smoother ride over rough surfaces. This adjustability may allow skaters to optimize their setup based on personal preferences or specific skating requirements.

Upward and downward rotation of the rocker arms may be limited by stops on the rocker arms and within the frame body. This may allow the pair of rotatably attached wheels to be proximal when the pair of arms with spring are installed within the frame body (). The inline skate frame may be configurable with different suspension configurations for different pairs of rocker arms within the same frame. This may provide flexibility in customizing the suspension setup. The inline skate frame may be utilized in various methods of use, providing technical advantages and alternative applications. The configurable suspension system may allow for customization of the skating experience based on different terrains, skating styles, or user preferences.

The elastomeric springs may be provided in multiple durometers to allow users to tune the suspension according to their weight, foot size, and performance preference. Different durometer ratings may correspond to different levels of stiffness, with lower durometer ratings providing softer suspension and higher durometer ratings providing stiffer suspension. This variability in stiffness may enable users to customize their skating experience based on individual factors and preferences.

Users may select elastomeric springs with appropriate durometer ratings based on their body weight. For example, a skater weighing 60 pounds may require softer springs with lower durometer ratings, while a skater weighing 200 pounds may require stiffer springs with higher durometer ratings. This customization may be particularly valuable as a single boot size, such as size 6.5, may accommodate skaters across a wide weight range from 60 to 200 pounds.

The ability to customize suspension stiffness may extend beyond weight considerations to include personal preferences and skating styles. Some users may prefer a stiffer suspension for better power transfer and stability during long strides, while others may prefer a softer suspension for enhanced shock absorption and comfort. The multiple durometer options may allow users to fine-tune the suspension characteristics to match their specific skating preferences.

Users may also configure different durometer ratings for different positions within the frame. For example, a user may install stiffer elastomeric springs with higher durometer ratings in the front position and softer elastomeric springs with lower durometer ratings in the rear position. This differential suspension setup may provide optimal balance between stability and maneuverability, potentially enhancing overall skating performance.

The no-suspension configuration using non-elastomeric plugs may appeal to various user groups with specific needs and preferences. New users who may be hesitant to adopt suspension technology may prefer to start with the solid setup for simplicity and familiarity. The solid setup may provide a more traditional rigid feel that may be easier for beginners to manage while learning basic skating techniques.

Some users may prefer the aesthetic appearance of a rigid frame over the functional benefits of suspension. The no-suspension configuration may provide these users with the clean, traditional rigid feel they desire without compromising the option to switch to a suspension setup in the future. This flexibility may allow users to prioritize visual preferences while maintaining access to performance options. Skaters may prefer the modern esthetics the inline frame while maintaining the rigid frame feeling they're accustomed to.

Hockey players, in particular, may prefer the solid setup for its modern aesthetic alignment while appreciating the option to utilize suspension performance when desired. Most hockey players may prefer the modern look and both suspension systems over conventional flat sided rigid frames. The frame body may provide a distinctive appearance compared to conventional rigid frames due to its unique structural configuration. The frame body may incorporate curved surfaces and geometric patterns that may result from the integration of the suspension components. The frame body may feature visible openings and channels that may accommodate the biasing members and stop pins. These structural elements may create an aesthetic that may differ substantially from flat-sided extruded or cast frames. The frame body may appeal to users who may prefer modern design elements while maintaining the option to utilize different suspension configurations. The no-suspension configuration using non-elastomeric plugs may preserve the distinctive visual characteristics of the frame body. The frame body may incorporate surface treatments or finishes that may enhance its appearance. The frame body may feature integrated mounting points and structural reinforcements that may contribute to both function and form. The overall proportions and profile of the frame body may create visual interest through the interplay of mechanical components and negative space.

The frame may include replaceable non-abrasive plastic contact surface inserts that may snap into insets in the rocker arms. These non-abrasive contact surfaces may prevent aluminum-on-aluminum contact, which might otherwise lead to galling between metal components. By preventing metal-to-metal contact, these inserts may greatly increase the durability and performance of the frames over extended use.

The non-abrasive contact surfaces may also significantly reduce the need for lubrication between moving parts. Traditional metal-on-metal contact points may require regular lubrication to prevent wear and maintain smooth operation. This lubrication may be messy and inefficient, requiring frequent maintenance. The plastic contact surfaces may provide inherent lubricity, potentially eliminating or greatly reducing the need for applied lubricants, resulting in cleaner operation and reduced maintenance requirements.

The independent suspension configuration, where stop pins are inserted to independently bias each rocker arm against the frame body, may provide a stiffer ride that may be better suited for long strides. This configuration may offer enhanced stability and power transfer during straight-line skating, potentially benefiting speed skaters and those who prioritize efficient forward motion. The independent movement of each wheel may allow for precise terrain adaptation while maintaining overall frame rigidity.

The interdependent suspension configuration, where stop pins are removed to bias opposing rocker arms against each other, may provide greater agility and a better turning radius. This configuration may create a more responsive feel during turns and maneuvers, potentially benefiting urban skaters, slalom skaters, and those who prioritize maneuverability over straight-line efficiency. The interconnected movement of opposing wheels may enhance the frame's ability to flex and adapt during complex skating movements.

The suspension concepts described herein may extend beyond inline skates to other applications such as trailers or powered vehicles using tandem wheel setups. The principles of configurable suspension using elastomeric springs of varying durometers may be applied to small-scale transportation devices where customizable suspension characteristics may be beneficial. These applications may utilize similar mechanisms for switching between independent and interdependent suspension configurations to optimize performance for different usage scenarios.

The frame body and rocker arms may be designed with consideration for manufacturing efficiency and user convenience. The use of reversible hardware may eliminate the need for left and right-sided parts, potentially simplifying both manufacturing processes and user assembly or maintenance procedures. This design approach may reduce manufacturing costs and inventory requirements while enhancing user experience through simplified part management.

depicts replaceable contact inserts composed of Delrin or a comparable low-friction polymer material. These inserts are positioned at key interface points between aluminum components to prevent direct aluminum-on-aluminum contact, thereby mitigating the risk of galling, which can cause wear, surface damage, and mechanical failure. The use of Delrin inserts significantly reduces friction and wear, eliminating the need for ongoing lubrication in most applications. This design improves system longevity, reduces maintenance requirements, and enhances overall performance, particularly in high-repetition or high-load environments.

For recreational skating, users may configure the frame with the first suspension configuration, where stop pins are inserted to independently bias each rocker arm against the frame body. This setup may provide a balanced ride with shock absorption for general use on varied surfaces. The independent suspension of each wheel may help maintain better ground contact over uneven terrain.

For aggressive or trick skating, the second suspension configuration where stop pins are removed to bias opposing rocker arms against each other may be advantageous. This setup may allow for greater flexibility and shock absorption during landings from jumps or grinds. The interconnected movement of opposing wheels may help distribute impact forces more evenly. The ability to mix suspension configurations within the same frame may provide unique technical advantages. For example, users may configure the front wheels with suspension and the rear wheels without suspension. This hybrid setup may offer improved maneuverability in the front while maintaining stability and power transfer in the rear.

The modular nature of the suspension system may allow for quick adjustments between skating sessions or even during breaks within a session. Skaters may easily switch between configurations to adapt to changing terrain or skating objectives without requiring separate frames or skates. Beyond inline skating, the principles of this configurable suspension system may be applied to other wheeled applications. For example, similar concepts could be adapted for use in:

The use of elastomeric springs as biasing members may provide advantages in terms of weight savings, simplicity, and durability compared to traditional metal spring suspensions. The ability to easily replace or swap out these components may allow for fine-tuning of suspension characteristics to match individual preferences or specific usage scenarios.

The frame design incorporating reversible hardware may simplify manufacturing and assembly processes, potentially reducing production costs and improving ease of maintenance for end-users. This feature may also facilitate easier repairs or replacements of individual components if needed. The inline skate frame may be designed such that there is no loss of energy in either suspension system. The force needed to compress the springs may be released when the spring uncompresses, potentially adding push off for take off, stride, and jumps. This energy conservation principle may have been demonstrated in earlier products utilizing similar suspension designs.

Both suspension systems—the independent and interdependent configurations—may function effectively across all skating categories and styles. The optimal system for a given situation may be determined by the individual skater based on their preferences and needs.

While the suspension systems described are primarily intended for inline skates, the principles may be adapted for other applications. For example, an eight-wheel skate utilizing four tandem wheel sets may provide enhanced stability and maneuverability. The dual suspension systems may also be well-suited for automotive applications such as trailers and powered vehicles employing tandem wheel configurations. In such implementations, the wheels may be driven or passive, with or without steering capabilities.

The inline frame suspension system described herein may be advantageously applied to various vehicle applications beyond inline skates. The versatile suspension concepts may be particularly beneficial in automotive applications, including both trailers and powered vehicles that utilize tandem wheel configurations.