Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
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SHI AND SNOWBOARD LUBRICATION SYSTEM
Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to skis and snowboards, that is devices adapted
to glide across snow or other surfaces, such as artificial ski matting.
Background to the Invention
Skis and snowboards are well knomz devices for enabling people, vehicles and
other apparatus or equipment to glide over snow and other surfaces. Sports
skis for
attachment to boots are very well known, as are skis for use as landing gear
on
aircraft, and use on vehicles such as skidoos etc. Sl~is may also be referred
to as
runners, for gliding over snow. Snowboards may also be referred to as
snowblades.
Thus, the term "ski or snowboard" will be understood to encompass runners,
snow
blades and other such devices for gliding over snow or other surfaces.
The lower surface of a ski or snowboard that is in contact with the snow (or
other glide surface) is known as the a-unnng surface. In many instances it is
desirable
to reduce friction between the running surface and the glide surface as much
as
possible. The glide surface in this sense is any surface over which the sl~i
or
snowboard is adapted to glide.
For example, skis for recreational and sports use may comprise bases (running
surfaces) formed from solid or sintered hydrophobic polymers to give low
friction.
To reduce friction yet further between the running surface and the glide
surface it is
lcnown to coat the naming surface with wax. A commonly used technique to apply
wax involves hot ironing the wax into the base. Typically, this necessitates
access to
a worlcshop. Cold wax candles and preparations may be used between hot waxes
but
tend not to give such high performance because of inconsistencies in their
application
and because they quickly wear away through abrasion.
Wax coating of the nmning surface to reduce friction can increase speed, and
hence raise performance and/or increase recreational enjoyment. It also helps
to
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protect the running surface from abrasive damage. A problem, however, is that
the
wax coating wears off, and re-application becomes necessary. When a wax
coating
has been workshop applied, wear is dependent on the distance travelled on the
ski or
board.
US Patent 5,169,169 discloses an attempted solution to this problem. This
document describes a sl~i waxing system in which pumps (electrically or heel
operated) are used to drive lubricant from a reservoir worn by the skier to
the running
surface of a ski. An alternative system is disclosed in which a chamber inside
the slci
body contains pressured gas, and this is used in a controlled fashion to drive
lubricant
from a further chamber inside the ski to the running surface. Although the
described
systems do enable wax to be applied to the ski during use, they have a number
of
problems associated with them. Firstly, wearing of a lubricant container
(reservoir)
by the skier (for example, on his or her back) represents a safety hazard, in
addition to
being a further encumbrance. Secondly, building compressed gas and lubricant
chambers into the ski body can severely degrade its strength. Thirdly, the
described
systems employ discrete nozzles (outlet ports) in the running surface to
dispense
lubricant. These nozzles can be easily blocked, for example, by external
fouling.
Another disadvantage with the systems incorporating a single heel pump is that
the
pump puts an alpine skier into an unnatural and unsafe off balance ski
position. Also,
the use of external coimections (for example, piping to the reservoir and
links to ski-
pole mounted pump activation switches) causes safety risks through impact
injuries or
strangulation. Yet another problem with the systems disclosed in US 5,169,169
is that
by utilising compressed gas, electrically activated switches and valves, and
springs in
heel pumps, they fall foul of slci competition equipment regulations, in
particular, the
Federation W ternational de Ski (FIS) equipment regulation 1.2.6.1 2003/2004
which
states "no additional equipment is permitted which: (a) makes use of foreign
energy
(e.g. heaters, chemical energy accumulators, electric batteries, mechanical
aids, etc); b
causes or intends to cause changes in the outer conditions of the competition
to the
disadvantage of fellow competitors (e.g. changes to piste or snow); (c)
increase the
risk for the users or other persons, when used for the purpose it was intended
for.
Thus, the systems disclosed in US 5,169,169 contravene Part (a) when using
compressed gases, electrically actuated switches and valves, pistons and
springs, and
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contravene Part (c) when using external compressed gas caW sters and piping to
the
sticks and fluid reservoirs that can cause injury to the user and others. Thus
the
systems disclosed in US 5,169,169 would not be permitted in current ski
competitions.
It is therefore an object of embodiments of the present invention to provide
skis and/or snowboards with lubrication systems that overcome, at least
partially, one
or more of the above mentioned problegns associated with the prior art. A
particular
aim is to provide skis and snowboards with lubrication systems that satisfy
current
specifications for competition equipment.
Summary of the Invention
According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a ski
or
snowboard having a lower running surface and comprising: means for attaching a
boot to the ski or snowboard; a deformable lubricant reservoir; and means for
conveying lubricant from the reservoir to the running surface, the arrangement
being
such that, in use, an attached boot can exert pressure on the reservoir to
deform the
reservoir and drive lubricant from the reservoir, via the conveying means, to
the
running surface.
In other words, the reservoir and boot attachment means are arranged such
that, in use, a wearer of the boot exerts a force on the reservoir to
pressurise lubricant
inside it, and so drive lubricant to the running surface. The reservoir is
adapted to
deform under pressure from an attached boot.
Thus, lubricant is forced from the lubricant reservoir to the lower running
surface by action of pressure from a boot on the reservoir. This pressure rnay
be
applied directly or indirectly to the reservoir. It will be appreciated that,
in use, the
pressure applied by an attached boot to a ski or snowboard will vary with time
and
will also vary widely in magnitude. For example, the pressure may vary rapidly
when
the user is travelling over an undulating surface. Depending on the speed of
travel
and the contours of the slope surface, the instantaneous pressure on the ski
may
greatly exceed that which would be experienced by the ski when the user is
stationary
on flat ground. Thus, in use, the reservoir incorporated in the present
invention will
be subjected to time-varying pressure which can be thought of as a pseudo -
random
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series of pressure pulses. These pressure pulses are used to drive the
lubricant from
the reservoir to the running surface.
It will be appreciated that, because of the large fluctuation in pressure
exerted
by the attached boot in typical use, the reservoir may be semi-rigid or even
substantially rigid, i.e. a significant force may have to be applied to
achieve even a
small deformation. The deformation need not be large. The rigidity of the
reservoir
may be tailored so that a suitable pumping action (that is driving of
lubricant from the
reservoir to the rumung surface) is achieved in the particular application.
For
example, for high speed, downhill racing applications, a stiffer reservoir may
be used
than for recreational use.
It will also be appreciated that in this first aspect of the present invention
the
"pumping" of the lubricant is achieved without using any actuators or
switches. The
activation is achieved solely by natural skier pressure. Displacement of the
lubricant
to the running surface is achieved using skier pressure alone.
Before use of the ski or snowboard, the reservoir is typically filled (or
charged) with lubricant via a suitably arranged inlet, which may comprise a
self
sealing (i.e. self closing) valve for example. The refill supply is then
disconnected, so
that the reservoir is then a closed, self contained local supply of lubricant,
carried on
the slci or snowboard itself. When the ski/board is in use, the reservoir is
not
connected to any lubricant supply; it has no open lubricant inlet, but just
one or more
lubricant outlets.
Preferably the reservoir is resilient, such that in use it is repeatedly
deformed
under pressure from the boot, and then returns to its original shape when
pressure is
reduced. Tlus repeated deformation and recovery of the reservoir can drive the
lubricant pumping action, and it will be appreciated that only small changes
in
reservoir dimensions may be required to achieve suitable lubricant flow.
Conveniently, the ski or snowboard may comprise a non-return valve through
which lubricant flows from the reservoir to the running surface. A further non-
return
valve may be arranged to permit air to enter the reservoir (i.e. to enable air
to be
drawn into the reservoir, to take up a volume corresponding to the ejected
lubricant).
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Thus, pumping action may be achieved using no actuators or switches, but just
with
fluidic non-return valves with no user control or intervention.
The reservoir may comprise a single lubricant outlet through which lubricant
is driven to the running surface, or a plurality of such outlets.
Preferably, the reservoir comprises an outlet arranged at or near a forward
end
of the reservoir such that it continues to be covered by lubricant even when
the
reservoir is nearly empty when the ski or snowboard is travelling down a
slope.
Preferably, the means for conveying lubricant is arranged to convey lubricant
to a plurality of positions on the running surface. It may have a branching
structure,
such that a plurality of positions may be supplied from a single outlet of the
reservoir.
The means for conveying lubricant may take a variety of forms. It may comprise
a
conduit, which may, for example, comprise one or more tubes and/or channels.
In
certain preferred embodiments it may comprise a plurality of micro channels,
that is
channels having dimensions in the region of 1 to 2000 ~.m.
The means for conveying may be arranged to convey lubricant through the ski
or snowboard to the lower running surface (i.e. it may be arranged to convey
lubricant
down through a body of the ski/boaxd).
Preferably, the means for conveying comprises at least one plate attached to
an
upper surface of the ski or snowboard, the plate having an inlet arranged to
receive
lubricant from the reservoir and defining a plate conduit arranged to convey
lubricant
from the plate inlet over the upper surface (i.e. along a length and/or across
a width of
the ski or board). This plate may be described as a distribution plate or
distributing
plate, as it distributes lubricant from the reservoir to desired lubrication
points/regions
on the running surface.
In certain preferred embodiments, the means for conveying comprises a
plurality of conduits each extending from different respective positions on
the upper
surface, through the ski or snowboard towards the running surface, and the
plate
conduit is az~anged to convey lubricant to this plurality of conduits. The
plurality of
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positions may comprise positions spaced apart along a length andlor across a
width of
the ski or snowboard.
The plate conduit may comprise at least one channel in a lower surface of the
plate, the plate lower surface being attached to an upper surface of the ski
or
snowboard. Thus, the plate conduit wluch conveys lubricant may conveniently be
defined between the distribution plate and the upper surface of the body of
the ski or
snowboard.
In preferred embodiments, the reservoir may be attached to an upper surface
of the plate, providing the advantage that the reservoir and plate together
form a race-
plate structure, elevating the boot attachment position. Thus, the
distributing plate
may also function as a race/riser plate.
Alternatively, the reservoir may be attached to an upper surface of the body
of
the ski or snowboard. Preferably, the ski or snowboard may further comprise at
least
one porous member having a lower surface and an upper surface, the porous
member
being arranged such that its lower surface forms part of the running surface
of the sl~i
or snowboard, and the means for conveying delivers lubricant from the
reservoir to
the upper surface such that lubricant can pass through the porous member to
the
running surface. The upper surface may be a surface parallel to the lower
surface, or
may have an alternative profile.
Delivery of the lubricant to the running surface through a porous member
provides the advantage that, unlike use of discrete nozzles or apertures, the
pores are
less prone to blocleing, and also this permits lubricant to be delivered over
a greater
surface area. In particular, it will be appreciated that relatively large
particles or
pieces of debris which could bloclc a nozzle or delivery tube will simply be
swept
over the surface of the porous member, leaving its lubricant delivery
capability
undiminished.
Preferably, the slci or snowboard comprises a plurality of such porous
members, distributed over the lower running surface.
Preferably, each porous member comprises a porous membrane.
Advantageously, each porous member is mesoporous (i.e. it comprises pores
having
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diameters in the range 100 to 1000 nanometres, although larger pores will also
prove
effective).
Preferably, the reservoir is arranged above a body of the ski or snowboard,
and
the means for conveying lubricant is arranged to convey the lubricant dovcnz
through
the ski or snowboard body to the runiung surface.
The reservoir may be attached to an upper surface of the ski or snowboaxd, or
may be attached to a race plate (also known as a rise plate or booster) which
is itself
attached to a ski or snowboard upper surface. The race plate may have dual
function,
in that it is also a distribution plate. Boosters are used between the ski
upper surface
and the ski boot bindings to elevate the position of the skier to enable tight
cornering
at high angles of angulation.
Alternatively, the ski or snowboard may comprise a race plate, and the
reservoir may be housed inside the race plate itself
Preferably, the means for attaching comprises a toe-binding and the reservoir
is arranged beneath the toe-binding. Thus, the reservoir may function as a toe
pump.
The location of the reservoir at the toe enables the skier position to be
optimised. A
secondary heel pump may be used as well, offering combined performance which
is
slightly better than when using a toe pump alone.
The toe-binding may be attached directly to an upper surface of the reservoir.
Alternatively, pressure may be applied to the reservoir from the toe-binding
by means
of some intermediate member or structure.
Preferably, the means for attaching a boot comprises a heel binding, which
may be rigidly attached to the ski or snowboard body (directly, or indirectly
by means
of a suitable spacer member or plate), with no deformable reservoir beneath
the heel
binding. In such examples, the driving of lubricant to the running surface
(i.e. the
pumping) is achieved solely by means of pressure applied via the toe binding.
Alternatively, the slci or snowboard may comprise a second deformable
lubricant
reservoir, which may additionally be arranged beneath the heel binding. In
such
examples, the means for conveying lubricant is adapted to convey lubricant
from each
reservoir to the running surface.
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In certain preferred embodiments the deformable lubricant reservoir comprises
a substantially rigid reservoir body and a flexible reservoir lid. A gasket
may be
arranged to form a seal between the reservoir body and lid. Advantageously,
the
gasket may comprise self sealing elastomeric material and may be further
arranged to
seal a lubricant refill inlet to the reservoir.
Also, in certain preferred embodiments the means for conveying lubricant
comprises a lubricant distribution system arranged inside a body of the ski or
snowboard. In other words, the distribution system (which may be a system or
pipes,
tubes, channels or other conduits) may be an integral part of the ski body,
embedded
or otherwise incorporated in it. The distribution system is preferably
arranged to
distribute lubricant along a length of the ski or board, to a plurality of
positions on the
running surface. The distribution system may be connected via suitable
connection
means to a single outlet from the reservoir, or to a plurality of outlets. The
connection
means may, for example, include a short length of tube, pipe, or other conduit
that is
internal or external to the ski body.
According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a ski
or snowboard having a lower running surface aald comprising at least one
porous
member, the porous member having a lower outer surface, which forms part of
the
running surface, arid an upper surface, the ski or snowboard further
comprising means
for conveying lubricant to the upper surface such that lubricant may pass
through the
porous member to the running surface.
Thus, rather than supplying lubricant to the running surface through nozzles
or
other such orifices, this aspect of the invention provides the lubricant via a
porous
member. This provides numerous advantages. The porous outer surface of the
porous member is less prone to blockage, enables lubricant to be delivered
over a
wide area, does not interrupt the otherwise smooth running surface of the ski
or
snowboard and, by avoiding the requirement for holes in the running surface,
can
offer a slci or snowboard with improved strength and structural integrity.
The porous member may be embedded in a body of the ski or snowboard such
that its upper surface is a surface located inside the body.
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The means for conveying lubricant may comprise at least one tube, channel or
conduit extending down through the body to the upper surface of the porous
member.
Preferably the ski or snowboard further comprises a lubricant reservoir
adapted to
feed lubricant to the means for conveying lubricant. The ski or snowboaxd may
further comprise pumping means to deliver lubricant to the porous member,
although
in certain embodiments gravity feed alone may be used.
In embodiments adapted to be worn by a person, the ski or snowboard may
further comprise means for attaching a boot, wherein the reservoir is arranged
to be
deformed, in use, under pressure from an attached boot to force lubricant to
the
porous member. In such embodiments, the pumping means preferably comprises
non-return valves arranged to allow lubricant to be pumped from the reservoir,
and to
allow air to be drama into the reservoir as the reservoir is repeatedly flexed
under
pressure from the attached boot.
Preferably, the porous member is in the form of a porous membrane.
Preferably the porous member or membrane comprises mesoporous material.
The ski or snowboard may comprise a lower polymer layer which forms the
running surface and the porous membrane may be located in a window in the
lower
polymer layer, the surfaces of the lower polymer layer and porous membrane
being
co-planar.
Preferably, the ski or snowboard comprises a plurality of porous members,
with their lower outer surfaces being distributed over the lower running
surface.
A preferred embodiment of the invention provides a snowboard including a
reservoir and a distribution plate, which together create a rise plate that
allows riders
with large boot sizes to additionally avoid catching their toes on the snow or
artificial
sliding surface when carving turns in the toe forward position, thereby
increasing the
carve efficiency and the comfort of the ride.
According to another aspect of the invention there is provided method of
lubricating a running surface of a ski or snowboard, the method comprising the
steps
of: providing the ski or snowboard with a boot binding and a deformable
lubricant
reservoir beneath the boot binding; before using the ski or snowboard, filling
the
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reservoir with a quantity of lubricant; attaching a boot to the ski or
snowboard using
the binding; using the ski or snowboard and exerting a pressure on the
reservoir whilst
using the ski or snowboard to deform the reservoir and progressively drive
said
quantity of lubricant from the reservoir; whilst using the ski or snowboard,
admitting
air to the reservoir to replace expelled lubricant; and conveying expelled
lubricant
from the reservoir to the running surface of the ski or snowboard, whereby the
quantity of lubricant is progressively delivered to the running surface during
use.
Advantageously, the step of conveying may comprise conveying the lubricant
down through a body of the slci or snowboard, for example using a distribution
system
incorporated in the body.
Brief description of the Drawings
Embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the
accompanying drawings (not to scale) of whiche
FIG 1 is a lughly schematic representation of a ski embodying the invention;
FIG 2 is a schematic representation of a lubricant-conveying tube suitable for
use in
embodiments of the invention;
FIG 3 is a schematic representation of a micro engineered flexible plate (a
distribution
plate) carrying fluidic paths suitable for use in embodiments of the
invention;
FIG 4 is a schematic cross section, along line A-A, of the plate from FIG 3;
FIG 5 is a schematic view of the underside of a ski embodying the invention
showing
porous members (shaded) incorporated into the running surface of the ski;
FIG 6 is a schematic view of the underside of another embodiment, showing open
orifices of appropriate diameters incorporated into the running surface of the
ski;
FIG 7 is a schematic plan view of a lubricant reservoir suitable for use in
embodiments of the invention;
FIG 8 is a schematic cross-section of the fluid reservoir from FIG 7 ;
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FIG 9 is a highly schematic view of part of another ski (including the toe
binding)
embodying the invention, showing part of the flexible fluidics plate;
FIG 10 is a highly schematic view of part of a vehicle comprising a ski
embodying the
invention;
FIG 11 is a high schematic view of a snowboard embodying the invention;
FIG 12 is a plan view of a base portion of a reservoir suitable for use in
embodiments
of the invention;
FIG 13 is a cross section of a reservoir suitable for use in embodiments of
the
invention, the reservoir incorporating a gasket, a top plate, and the base
portion shown
in FIG 12;
FIG 14 is a highly schematic cross section of a ski embodying the invention;
and
FIG 15 is a highly schematic cross section of part of another ski embodying
the
invention.
Detailed description of preferred eanbodixnents
Referring now to FIG 1, a first embodiment to the invention comprises a ski
having a
body 4 with a lower running surface 2 and an upper surface 3. Attached to the
upper
surface 3 is a hollow shell 5, having an upper surface 51, that acts as the
lubricant
reservoir. A forward reservoir 5 is located beneath a toe binding 6. The toe
binding 6
includes a base plate 61 which is attached directly to the upper surface of
the reservoir
5. In use, an attached boot 8 exerts a time-varying pressure on the reservoirs
5. A
second reservoir 5 is located beneath a heel binding 7, having a heel binding
plate 71
which again is attached to an upper surface of the rear reservoir. Before the
ski is
used, volumes V inside the reservoirs 5 (i.e. inside the shells or housings)
are charged
with suitable lubricant. The two reservoirs 5 are semi-rigid, in that they are
deformed
slightly under the time-varying pressure exerted via the boot 8. The
reservoirs 5 are
also resilient, so that when pressure is reduced they regain their original
shapes. This
repeated deformation of the reservoirs 5 causes a pumping action which is used
to
drive lubricant contained within the reservoirs 5 out of the reservoirs, via
outlets 52,
into conduits 10 provided inside distribution plates 9 which are attached to
the upper
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surface 3 of the ski. In certain embodiments, these conduits comprise an array
of
tubes, and in other embodiments they take alternative forms, such as channels.
The
reservoirs 5 are attached to upper surfaces 94 of the distribution plates. The
distribution plates 9 in this example have inlets aligned with the outlets 52
of the
reservoirs, and the plate conduits 10 distribute lubricant along lengths of
the ski, to
vertical conduits 11 which extend down from the upper surface 3 into the body
of the
ski. In this example the conduits 11 are bores which convey the lubricant
through the
body 4 towards the running surface 2, but do not emerge at the running
surface.
Instead, they terminate at the upper surfaces of porous members 42 which are
set into
the ski such that their lower surfaces 43 form parts (portions, areas or
regions) of the
running surface In normal use, a wearer of the ski exerts pressure on the
reservoirs 5,
deforming them and causing lubricant to be driven along the plate conduits 10,
down
through bores 11, and finally through pores in the members 43 to emerge on the
running surface. In FIG l, the connection between the reservoirs 5 and the
distribution plates 9 are shown simply as apertures (of exaggerated size). In
other
embodiments, a valve may be arranged between the two components.
FIG 2 shows a delivery tube 100 which can be used in embodiments of the
invention, as means for conveying lubricant from a reservoir to the running
surface
(or porous member). The delivery tube could, for example, be housed inside a
distribution or race plate. It has a single inlet 101 to convey lubricant from
a single
outlet 52 of a respective reservoir, and branches to deliver that lubricant to
two or
more outlets 102. These can be arranged at delivery apertures 12 in the
rumling
surface 2 of the slci, or adjacent the upper surfaces of porous members set
into the ski.
One possible arrangement of the delivexy apertures 12 is shown in FIG 6. FIG 5
shows porous membranes 42 incorporated into the rumung surface below apertures
12
that act to distribute the lubricant and protect against blocking. In other
words, in the
embodiment shown in FIG 5, the membranes cover delivery apertures, in the same
way that the porous members 42 of the ski in FIG 1 cover the lower ends of the
delivery bores 11. Outer surfaces 43 of the membranes 42 extend across the
width of
the ski and provide portions of the running surface 2.
It will be appreciated that the general lubricant delivery/dispensing system
illustrated in FIGs 1, 2, 5 and 6 is applicable not just to skis, but to snow
blades,
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snowboards or any other devices which glide on snow or an artificial surface
used for
snow sport activities, such as ski-doos, sledges, ice skate blades, etc.
Figure 3 shows the underside of a distribution plate 9 suitable for use in
embodiments of the invention. The plate has a lubricant inlet 91, for
connection to
the lubricant outlet 52. A lower surface of the flexible plate is
substantially flat, for
attachment to the flat upper surface of a ski or board body. This attachment
may, for
example, be by means of suitable adhesive. A plurality of channels or grooves
93 are
provided in the lower surface 93, and these, in cooperation with the ski upper
surface,
define conduits 10 for conveying lubricant over the ski (i.e. distributing
lubricant to
delivery apertures or porous members). The plate is shown in cross section in
FIG 4,
and the position of one of the delivery bores 11 through the ski body is shown
with
respect to the channel.
Modern performance skis often have an integrated ski body, with a race/rise
plate and binding device. The race plate is often a hollow plastic shell that
provides
for extra height of the ski boot above the ski surface thereby allowing a
higher degree
of slci edge angulation. This aids turn carving. In FIG 1, and in other
embodiments,
the reservoirs 5 may replace an otherwise unf lied race plate. In certain
embodiments,
the distribution plate and reservoirs) may function as a race plate, elevating
the
attached boot above the ski upper surface.
In the embodiment showed in FIG 1, no user intervention is required other
than to fill the lubricant reservoirs 5 (via refill ports, not shown). No
outside control
sig~zal electrical or magnetic, is required to initiate the lubricant pumping
action. The
deformable reservoirs act as pumps which contain no actuators or switches.
Activation is solely by natural skier pressure. The ski of FIG 1 uses a
primary toe
pump to provide optimum skier position, and a secondary heel pump was also
used
(but can be omitted in alternative embodiments). The lubricant supply system
is a
continuous flow system, with the release rate being determined by pressure
exerted by
the slcier (and by non-return valves, in embodiments where they are used). It
will also
be appreciated that the system of FIG 1 comprises no moving parts.
Refernng now to FIGS 7 and 8, these show a lubricant reservoir 5 suitable for
use in the ski of FIG 1 and in other embodiments. This reservoir takes the
form of a
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semi-rigid, resilient container, which may be formed from aluminium, plastic,
reinforced plastic, steel, or a combination of these materials. It will be
appreciated
that other metals and polymers, and indeed other materials, may be used in
alternative
embodiments. For example, the reservoirs may conveniently be formed from
moulded and/or reinforced plastics. The reservoir 5 has an upper surface 51
including
a connection 54 for a lubricant filler, a connection 53 for an air valve (i.e.
a non-return
air inlet valve) and four screw holes 55 for attaching the reservoir and the
bindings to
the other components of the ski. A vent with variable aperture size may
replace the
non-return air valve as a means of controlling the flow rate of the lubricant.
Lubricant
outlets 52 are provided in a lower plate SC of the container. The container 5
thus
takes the form of a generally rectangular or ergonomically and aerodynamically
shaped box, having upper and lower surfaces connected by a sidewall 57. The
small
deformations of the upper surface 51 can be achieved by application of
suitable skier
pressures.
Referring now to FIG 9, in this embodiment the ski utilises a single
defonnable reservoir 5 acting as a toe pump. Again the reservoir 5 is attached
to an
upper surface 94 of a flexible fluidic distribution plate 9. A toe binding 6
is attached
to an upper surface of the reservoir S1. A heel binding 7 may be attached
directly to
another shell 5 or to a hollow rise plate if fluidic distribution is not
required at the heel
of the ski. A non-return valve 53 is arranged to permit air to be drawn into
the
reservoir 5 when the reservoir 5 expands when applied pressure is reduced.
When
sufficient pressure is applied to the reservoir by means of the attached boot
8 and the
toe binding 6, the reservoir deforms, acting in addition to gravity to force
lubricant
out through an outlets 52, via non-return valves 58 into fluid conveying
networks 15.
These networlcs include conduits 10 which branch into pairs of fluid channels
111
running down through the body 4 of the ski. In other embodiments, these
channels
111 may emerge from the lower running surface of the ski through orifices or
apertures 12. In the present example, these channels 111 deliver the lubricant
to
surfaces 44 of porous membranes 42. In this embodiment these surfaces 44 are
upper
surfaces, parallel to the lower, outer surfaces 43 of the membranes. However,
it will
be appreciated that the surfaces 44 may have other shapes in alternative
embodiments.
The channels 111 simply need to deliver lubricant to the porous members 42
such that
it can emerge from the lower outer surface 43. The ski comprises a lower
polymer
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layer 21 which would normally provide all of the running surface 2. However,
in this
embodiment, windows have been cut in the polymer layer 21 and the porous
membranes 42 are located in (i.e. they are set into) these windows such that
the lower
surface 2 of the polymer layer 21 and the outer surfaces 43 of the membranes
42 are
co-planar. Thus, there are no large apertures in the running surface of the
ski to
become blocked, and the use of porous membranes covering the supply channels
111
enables an uninterrupted, smooth runrging surface to be provided, which can
also
deliver lubricant at a plurality of positions. In the embodiment of FIG 9 the
non-
return valve 58 in the lubricant supply path from the reservoir to the
membranes 42 is
housed at the fluid exit 52 of the reservoir 5. The channels 111 are provided
inside
the ski body itself. The londitudinal supply conduits 10, which also form part
of the
fluid conveying networks, are parts of a flexible fluidic distribution plate
9. Thus, tlus
embodiment provides integral lubricant fluid storage, pumping and distribution
with
no external components. There are no components external to the main body of
the
ski and binding system so that the device works in inverted orientation
(suitable for
freestyle, and new school skiing) as well as with a normal stance as would be
encountered in Alpine or Nordic skiing and boarding. The pumping of the
lubricant is
achieved by using a deformable reservoir and only fluidic non-return valves.
No user
control or intervention is required.
Refernng again to FIG 9, it will be appreciated that each reservoir 5 has an
outlet 52 located towards the front of the reservoir (and a second outlet
further back as
shown). From the forward outlet, lubricant can be supplied to a plurality of
positions
on the ski running surface. By locating an outlet at the front of the
reservoir in this
way, even when the lubricant level is low, lubrication of the running surface
can still
be achieved when travelling downhill. ~nly when the reservoir 5 is almost
completely empty will supply to the running surface cease.
Refernng now to FIG 10, this shows part of a vehicle incorporating a ski
embodying the invention. The ski 1 is attached to the velucle body 30 by means
of a
mounting leg 31 and mounting plate 32. Inside the vehicle is located a
lubricant
reservoir 20, supplying lubricant to a pump 21. The pump in turn supplies
lubricant
via a tube network 15 to inner surfaces 44 of an array of porous members 42.
These
porous members are arranged such that their lower outer surfaces 43 form parts
of the
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lower running surface 2 of the ski. When reduced friction is required, the
pump 21 is
operated to deliver lubricant to the porous members 42 and lubricant thus
emerges
from the lower surfaces 43. In certain circumstances, reduced friction may not
be
required, and then the pump 21 is simply left inactive.
Refernng now to FIG 11, this shows another embodiment of the invention, in
particular a snowboard. Here the snowboard 100 comprises a distribution plate
9
attached to an upper surface 3. A boot 8 is attached to the snowboard plate 9
by
means of a binding 106. The raised reservoir 5 is hollow and flexible, and
contains
the lubricant L. A plurality of micro channels 15 convey lubricant from the
reservoir
through a flexible fluidic distribution plate 9 to the upper surfaces of a
plurality of
mesoporous membranes 42, through which the lubricant emerges onto the lower
running surface 2. In use, pressure exerted by the boot 8 on the reservoir 5
in turn
causes repeated deformation of the reservoir 5 and drives lubricant through
the micro
channels 15 to the membranes 42. Thus, this embodiment employs a micro fluidic
lubricant delivery and distribution system to improve glide of the board. The
lubricant is distributed to the glide surface using mesoporous polymer
membranes to
increase surface area and avoiding fouling of fluidic channels. This
embodiment
requires no pre-pressurisation of a pumping device. The system can also be
used with
skis and snowblades and other gliding devices.. The pumping effect results
only from
the action of skier/boarder pressure ~ in a natural skiing/boarding position.
Positive
displacement of lubricant is achieved using skier pressure only.
Referring now to FIG 12, this is a plan view of part of a lubricant reservoir
suitable for use in embodiments of the invention. The depicted part 50 is the
lower
portion of the reservoir, which may also be referred to as the reservoir body.
This
body 50 defines a volume V for storing a quantity of liquid lubricant. In use,
the
reservoir body 50 is closed by a gasket 502 and lid 500 (or top plate). A
cross section
of the assembled reservoir 5 is shown in FIG 13, the cross section being taken
along
the line A-A in FIG 12. As will be appreciated from FIGS 12 and 13, the
reservoir 5
is elongated, and in use is attached to a ski so as to extend longitudinally
along a
length of the ski. The reservoir body is generally symmetrical about a centre
line, and
will typically be attached to a ski so that tlus centre line is aligned with
that of the ski.
A front or leading portion 501 of the reservoir body is pointed so as to
improve
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aerodynamic performance, and although the rear portion is generally square in
this
example, in alternative embodiments both the front and rear portions may be
suitably
shaped to provide reduced drag. The storage volume V is defined by the
combination
of body base 507 and side walls 508 extending upwards from the base. It will
be
appreciated that the reservoir body may be manufactured using a variety of
tecluuques. For example, it may be fabricated from separate components, or the
volume V may be machined out of a single, initially solid component. However,
in
certain preferred embodiments the body 50 is a single moulded plastic
component,
providing strength, durability and light weight. For example, the body 50 may
be
injection moulded polypropylene. The side walls 508 include portions 580 of
increased thickness. Extending vertically through these thickened portions 580
are a
number of holes for receiving suitably sized fixing screws. These holes
include pilot
holes 550 for receiving screws to attach the reservoir to a ski upper surface
(or to the
surface of a rise or distribution plate mounted on the ski) and a plurality of
smaller
holes 551 for use in attaching a binding to the assembled reservoir. The side
walls
508 provide a flat upper surface 509 on which the gasket 502 is located in the
assembled reservoir.
Referring to the assembled reservoir of FIG 13, a neoprene or other elastomer
gasket 502 is sandwiched between the upper surface 509 of the base side walls
and
the lower surface of a top plate 500. Although various materials may be used
for the
top plate, in certain preferred embodiments the top plate is formed from the
same
plastic material as the base. W use, when screws are used to attach the
reservoir to a
ski and binding, tightening of the screws clamps the gasket between the body
50 and
top plate 500 to provide a seal. The only way out of the reservoir for the
lubricant is
then through the single outlet 52, located in the side wall, immediately
adjacent the
base 507 and at the front end of the reservoir. It will be appreciated that
the thickness
of the top plate determines its flexibility, and hence the deformation of the
reservoir
for a given applied force. In other words, the top plate thickness will
determine the
pumping action resulting from application of a given force. Thus, a plurality
of top
plates may be provided, having different thicknesses, and before commencing
skiing
the top plate thickness may be selected to suit requirements (e.g. depending
on the
skier's weight, surface conditions, and/or intended skiing style).
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The top plate 500 is provided with a plurality of fixing holes at positions
corresponding to those of the holes in the base 50, and although it cannot be
seen in
the figure, the perimeter of the top plate is typically arranged to correspond
to that of
the base (i.e. with a pointed front portion to match the base from FIG 12).
As mentioned above, in the present embodiment the gasket 502 is neoprene.
Although not shown in FIGS 12 or 13, in addition to providing a seal between
base
and lid, this gasket may advantageously be utilised in a self sealing
reservoir fill
system. For example, the gasket may be arxanged beneath an aperture (e.g.
window,
nozzle, or some other conduit) in the lid such that a lubricant refill tube
can be
inserted into the aperture, through the gasket material, and into the enclosed
volume
inside the reservoir. After charging the reservoir via the tube, the tube can
then be
withdrawn, and the gasket material then reseals itself so that, again, the
lubricant can
only escape the reservoir via the outlet 52. Although neoprene may be used, it
will be
appreciated that other suitable self sealing elastomeric materials may be used
in
alternative embodiments.
The reservoir of FIG 13 is intended for use as a toe reservoir, i.e. it is
intended
for attachment to a ski, either directly or via a rise/distribution plate,
with a toe
binding attached to the upper surface 51 of the reservoir top plate 500. In
other
words, it is adapted for location beneath a toe binding. It will be
appreciated that
suitable means are to be provided to connect the fluid outlet 52 to a
distribution
system able to convey expelled lubricant from the reservoir to the running
surface of
the ski.
Refernng now to FIG 14, this is a highly schematic representation of a ski
incorporating a single toe reservoir 5. The reservoir 5 may be of the type as
described
above with reference to FIGS 12 and 13. In use, application of force to the
reservoir
by means of the toe binding results in repeated deformation of the reservoir
5, which
in turn results in lubricant being driven (pumped) out of the storage volume V
through
an outlet 52 located at the front of the reservoir. A short connection 151
connects the
outlet to a lubricant distribution system 150 which conveys the expelled
lubricant to a
plurality of positions on the running surface 2 of the ski. In this example,
the
lubricant distribution system is incorporated entirely within the body 4 of
the ski, and
comprises a plurality of conduits. It will be appreciated that a ski
incorporating a
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suitable distribution system may be manufactured in a variety of ways. For
example,
tubes or pipes may be embedded in the ski structure, or channels may be
provided in
one or more of the laminate layers. To convey lubricant down to the running
surface,
tubes, pipes, or channels may be provided which extend through a number of the
laminate layers. As with other embodiments, the distribution system may
deliver
lubricant to the running surface via discrete apertures in the running
surface, or via
one or more porous members. In this example, no heel pump is used. However, a
spacer 70 is located between the heel binding 70 and the ski upper surface 3
so that
the toe and heel bindings are at substantially the same height above the ski
upper
surface.
Referring now to FIG 15, in another ski embodying the invention a toe
reservoir 5 is attached directly to the upper surface 3 of a ski, and a toe
binding 6 is
attached directly to an upper surface 51 of the reservoir 5. Pressure applied
via the
binding 6 causes flexing of the reservoir lid, and hence pressure pulses are
applied to
lubricant L inside the reservoir. An external conduit system 160 (i.e. it is
external to
the body 4 of the ski) conveys lubricant L from a reservoir outlet 52 to a
plurality of
positions on the ski upper surface 3. An internal conduit system (not snown~,
incorporated inside the ski body, then conveys the lubricant to a plurality of
positions
on the running surface 2 of the ski. The external conduit system may, for
example,
comprise a system of tubes or pipes attached to the ski upper surface 3. A one-
way
(non-return) valve 530 is attached to the reservoir and is arranged to allow
air to enter
the reservoir to replace expelled lubricant. The valve is adjustable to
control the flow
of air into the reservoir; it provides a variable resistance. By adjusting the
valve, one
is thus able to adjust the flow rate of lubricant out of the reservoir for
given
conditions. The reservoir is also provided with a plug 540 of self sealing
elastomeric
material, the plug closing an aperture (e.g. window) in the reservoir top
plate. A
lubricant refill nozzle may be inserted into the reservoir through the plug
(i.e. it can
pierce the plug), the reservoir may then be charged with a quantity of
lubricant, and
the nozzle may then be withdrawn. The plug material then reseals, closing the
reservoir to further liquid ingress.
It will be appreciated that embodiments of the present invention can provide
integrated non-obtrusive ski and snowboard lubrication systems. Skis and
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snowboaxds embodying the invention may adhere to FIS rules on equipment
design,
as the pumping systems use no external energy sources. They may replace
currently
used race/rise plates. Pumping occurs as a consequence of the skier's natural
pressure
with no external energy being supplied. Embodiments may employ distribution
systems that are based on micro fluidic systems, thereby allowing precise
spatial and
temporal control of the lubricant delivery without user intervention. The
means for
conveying lubricant from the reservoir to the running surface may utilise a
lubricant
release system incorporating a mesoporous polymer membrane built into the
gliding
surface as an integral component. This reduces fouling that would be observed
with
direct holes in the glide surface. This enables the base of the ski or
snowboard to
remain flat with no added surface grooves or apertures. Embodiments of the
invention may employ a microfluidic distributor formed from moulded plastic,
or
other convenient material to be integrated into the top surface of a ski or
board.
Certain embodiments of the invention use micro channels to distribute
lubricant (which would typically be an environmentally friendly formulation
based on
a number of orgaiuc, inorganic and aqueous components) from a reservoir
contained
in the slci body to the base (i.e. running surface) at well defined points of
need.
Pmnping is achieved using the pressure of the skier on the boot foot plate of
the
binding.
Skis embodying the invention have been shown in controlled tests to have
superior speed and hence race performance and a longer lifetime between
relubrication in a recreational environment. Furthermore, because of the
constant
release system the lubricant does not wear off as a function of distance
travelled,
thereby giving superior constant glide.
In certain embodiments of the invention, micro channels in an extension to the
race plate are used to convey lubricant from a reservoir to the glide surface,
thereby
preserving the structural integrity of the slci body. Use of a membrane
distributor
integrated into the glide surface avoids the problems associated with blocking
of
fluidic channels.
Certain embodiments use skier pressure alone to drive lubricant from the
reservoir to the glide surface. Alternatively, gravity flow alone can be used,
given the
CA 02552547 2006-07-05
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correct choice of lubricant. In other embodiments, a combination of gravity
and skier
pressure assisted flow may be used. Changes in skier pressure can be used to
re-
enforce the effects of gravity, as can the steepness of the slope down which
the device
is travelling.
21
