Patent Application
20130316317
The skill of downhill skiing is achieved by combining the appropriate posture, orientation and balance of the different quadrants of the body in accordance with the terrain and maneuver at hand. Ideally the shoulders, hips and skis are maneuvered fairly independently when skiing. Improved results in training or assisting downhill skiers are obtained when the trainee derives these skills experientially, without intrusive interference from an instructor. The present disclosure primarily concerns a method and device for training novice skiers which leaves their upper body free, to encourage them to independently find their appropriate balance, while offering an instructing skier some degree of influence over the trainee skier's direction, speed and balance development.
As used herein, the term “trainee” is a skier who is fitted with a ski training device, for example, to allow another person to teach, train, assist or guide that skier in skiing. The trainee can be, for example, a beginner or student skier, a child or an adult, a capable skier attempting more difficult conditions or steeper terrain than they are accustomed to, or a physically handicapped or disabled skier. As used herein the term “instructor” refers to a person who is assisting a trainee, and can include, for example, a ski instructor or guide, a parent or ski partner. The instructor need not be a professional ski instructor; however, preferably the instructor is a competent skier with an understanding of proper ski technique. The instructor is typically also on skis, although in some situations the instructor can use the present device and method while on foot or on a snowboard or other suitable device.
Of the various patented and/or commercially available downhill ski training devices and associated methods, the present invention probably has most similarities with ski harnesses via which a trainee is connected to an instructor. Most commercially available ski harnesses are of the torso kind, by which an instructor directly manipulates the bearer's torso. The steering control provided by these torso harnesses is minimal and difficult to impart, and they also have the intrinsic characteristic of tending to urge the skier's upper body backwards when the instructor pulls on the harness to steer or control speed, which interferes with training or assisting trainees. Examples of torso harnesses are products marketed by Lucky Bums, RC Products and Kuu as well as those described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,424,040; 4,509,921; and 5,074,795. U.S. Pat. No. 4,505,681 describes a device involving tethering at the ankles without providing individual or separate control over them, making direct steering fundamentally unattainable.
In contrast to commonly-used devices and methods, use of the present device does not involve applying forces directly to the trainee's upper body which tends to disrupt their balance, but rather allows an instructor to aid a trainee in determining and adopting the correct stance and balance for the maneuver and terrain at hand.
The instructor can evaluate the terrain, meteorological conditions and skill level of the trainee in order to select the appropriate embodiment of the present disclosure to be used with the trainee. Three preferred embodiments grant an instructor the option of tethering a trainee with reins at one of three paired points: the ankles, the ski tips, or the ski tips via ski tip handles, while the trainee's ski tips can be coupled together to limit their relative motion. Thus, an instructor can independently manipulate the appropriate pair of tethering points directly, thereby assisting the trainee with simple turns, speed control and independent balance development without adversely disrupting the motion or position of the trainee's upper body.
The present invention relates to a ski training device for use by an instructor in training or assisting a trainee. The device comprises a pair of reins which are held by the instructor, each end of which is to be secured to the trainee at one of the following paired connecting points: the ankles, ski tips or ski tip handles, herein referred to as “tethering points”. Each rein can be independently manipulated by the instructor to influence either the right or left tethering point. The device optionally further comprises a ski tip coupler, that can be used to limit the relative motion of the trainee's ski tips.
Thus, a ski training device for use by an instructor in assisting a trainee, comprises left and right reins to, be held by the instructor. Each rein is connectable to corresponding left and right tethering points associated with the trainee's ankles or ski tips. During use of the device, each rein can be manipulated substantially independently by the instructor to adjust the motion of the corresponding tethering point. Preferably each rein comprises a connector for releasably connecting the rein to the corresponding tethering point.
A method of assisting a trainee downhill skier comprises tethering the trainee to an instructor with a device comprising a pair of reins. Each rein extends from one hand of the instructor to a corresponding tethering point associated with the trainee's ankles or ski tips, whereby each rein can be manipulated substantially independently by the instructor to adjust the motion of the corresponding tethering point.
In the above-described device and method, preferably the length of the reins is adjustable. The left and right reins can be separate, for example, comprising two independent lines running from each tethering point and terminating at each corresponding hand of the instructor. However the device tends to be easier to use if the reins comprise a single continuous strap that, during use, extends between the left and right hands of the instructor and is held approximately mid-way by the instructor. In the fatter embodiments, the continuous strap, can be formed from single piece or from two more component pieces that are releasably or permanently linked together.
In embodiments of the ski training device and method in which the tethering points are associated with the trainee's ankles, the device can further comprise a pair of ankle bands for securing around each ski boot of the trainee, and connectors for releasably connecting the left and right reins to the corresponding ankle band.
In other embodiments of the ski training device and method in which the tethering points are associated with the trainee's ankles, the device can further comprise boot anchors for attaching to the trainee's ski boots, and connectors for releasably connecting the left and right reins to the corresponding boot anchor.
In yet further embodiments of the ski training device and, method in which the tethering points are associated with the trainee's ankles, the device can further comprise connectors for releasably connecting the left and right reins to the trainee's corresponding ski boot binding.
In embodiments of the ski training device and method in which the tethering points are associated with the trainee's ski tips, the device can further comprise left and right ski tip anchors for attaching to the trainee's ski tips, and tip-connectors for releasably connecting the left and right reins to the corresponding ski tip anchors. In some embodiments, the device further comprises left and right ski tip handles for the trainee to hold, wherein each rein comprises a first section extending between the ski tip anchor and the ski tip handle and a second section extending between the ski tip handle and the portion of the rein held by the instructor. In this case, the device can further comprise ski handle-connectors for releasably connecting the second section of each rein to the corresponding ski tip handle. Preferably the length of at least the first section of each rein is adjustable (between the ski tip anchors and the ski tip handles held by the trainee), for example, to allow the trainee a relaxed forward stance when gripping the handles.
In any of the above-described embodiments, the ski training device optionally further comprises a ski tip coupler for linking the trainee's ski tips. In preferred embodiments the ski tip coupler comprises an elastic member for limiting divergence of the trainee's ski tips and a rigid member for limiting convergence of the trainee's ski tips. Thus, the method optionally comprises linking the trainee's ski tips using a ski tip coupler, wherein the ski tip coupler limits the divergence and/or convergence of the trainee's ski tips. Use of a ski tip coupler is particularly beneficial in embodiments of the device and method in which the tethering points are at the ski tips (with or without intermediate ski tip handles).
In any of the above-described embodiments, the reins optionally comprise a resilient tension absorber.
In embodiments of the above-described method, the trainee can be positioned downhill from and in front of the instructor on an inclined slope. The instructor can apply a greater rearward force on the right rein than on the left rein to induce the trainee to turn right, and can apply a greater rearward force on the left rein than on the right rein to induce the trainee to turn left. Furthermore, the instructor can apply rearward forces on both of the reins to restrain the trainee's downhill motion. In utilizing the method, the trainee ideally strives to achieve and maintain balance by responding to the instructor's discretionary input to the tethering points while also adjusting to the terrain and maneuver at hand.
In other embodiments of the above-described method, the trainee can be towed by the instructor along flat snow surfaces or up gentle inclines, by the instructor being positioned in front of the trainee, and applying forces on both of the reins to pull the trainee forward. Thus, a method is provided for towing trainees along flat snow surfaces or up gentle inclines for example to conserve energy of small children. As well as assisting the trainee in crossing such terrain, this can also help to develop the trainee's balance control. If the tethering point in use on the trainee is at the ankle, preferably it is repositioned to face forward.
An improved ski tip coupler, comprises a pair of ski tip anchors for attaching to the ski tips and a coupler for releasably finking the pair of ski tip anchors. The coupler comprises a rigid tube and a pair of connectors which are bound to each other by an elastic cord that extends through the tube, the connectors being releasably attachable to the ski tip anchors. During use of the ski tip coupler, the rigid tube limits convergence of the ski tips and preferably prevents the ski tips from crossing. Preferably the elastic cord limits the divergence or movement of the ski tips away from each other, and provides a resilient tendency to return the ski tips together to the length of the tube. In some embodiments, the length of the tube is adjustable, for example, the rigid tube can be telescopic.
Characterizing the various embodiments described herein, it can be stated that embodiments involving ankle tethering tend to grant the instructor a high degree of discretionary control over the trainee's speed and a strong influence over the trainee's direction and balance. Both the ski tip and ski tip handle tethering embodiments provide the instructor with an even higher degree of discretionary control over the trainee's direction and speed, as well as strong influence over the trainee's balance.
Toddlers, uncoordinated trainees or handicapped skiers are likely to be more effectively trained or assisted, and will tend to feel more secure, when tethered at the ski tips or at the ski tips via ski tip handles, while more coordinated or advanced trainees are likely to be more effectively trained or assisted by being tethered at the ankles.
The present device is easy-to-use, lightweight, convenient to carry and store, and can be easily attached to and removed from the trainee. For collision avoidance on busy slopes, the reins may be colored with high visibility fluorescent pigments and/or display an array of positioning lights to mark the usage of a tethering rein to other slope users.
Use of the present device and method benefits the trainee by speeding up the learning process, building up confidence and providing a fun experience.
a shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a ski tip coupler.
b shows a top view of the ski tip coupler shown in
a shows a top view of an embodiment of a ski tip coupler comprising a telescopic rigid tube and locking bolt, including a view of hidden internal parts of some of its components.
b shows a top view of an embodiment of a ski tip coupler comprising a remote controlled, adjustable telescopic rigid tube, including a view of hidden internal parts of some of its components.
a shows a side view of an embodiment of a ski training device comprising a pair of ski boots (only the right boot is shown) with built in eye bolts in the front for towing and a built in eye bolts in the back for training purposes.
b shows a side view of an embodiment of a ski training device comprising a pair of front ski boot bindings with built in eye bolts for towing and a pair of rear ski boot bindings with built in eye bolts for training purposes.
c shows a side view of an embodiment of a ski training device comprising a pair of ankle tethering reins further comprising a continuous retractable line, its receptacle, encasing a spring loaded retracting coil and associated connectors and strapping bands.
The present ski training device and method can be used to assist a trainee in achieving the appropriate weight shift, balance maintenance, and body stance to effectively initiate and execute basic ski maneuvers and the transitions between them. The instructor has influence over the trainee's tethering points via a left and right rein to guide, control or assist the trainee with said maneuvers. The tethering points are provided as a pair either at the ankles, the ski tips or the ski tips via ski tip handles. The training method is experiential, wherein the trainee learns and is assisted by an instructor as they ski together, for example, initially on a gentle incline.
For instance, in turning, the instructor exerts a stronger rearward force on one of the trainee's tethered sides, matching the instructor's intended direction, thus compelling the trainee to compensate for said manipulation by finding balance on the other side, triggering a turn. The trainee therefore works to complete a turn with a degree of upper body independence and autonomy, but nonetheless under the guidance of the instructor. The natural dynamic balance control mechanism of the skier is thus developed and enhanced in the process.
By having the trainee secured by the tethering points, the instructor is able to monitor and adjust the speed of the trainee by slowing down, and using the appropriate combination of tension and/or pull of each rein, while at the same time maintaining directional control.
Now, with reference to the drawings,
In using embodiments of the method and device described in
In addition to manipulating the position and movement of the trainee using embodiments of the present device and method, the instructor may communicate instructions vocally to the trainee in anticipation of a particular maneuver to further facilitate turns and positioning, and to enhance the learning experience.
Preferably the reins have some degree of resilience or elasticity to prevent abrupt pulls, and to facilitate a gradual exertion of force on the trainee by the instructor. For example, some portion or the entire length of the reins can be made of a suitable elasticized or resilient material or “tension absorbers” can be integrated into the reins.
The various embodiments of a ski training device described herein are preferably adjustable so that they can be adapted to suit a particular trainee by adjusting the various reins, connectors, and straps.
In more elaborate embodiments of the present device, a hydraulic, mechanical, electro-static or other suitable system may be used that, at the command of the instructor, causes a flexible and pliant rein to become firm and inflexible, so that a forward push can be exerted by the instructor using the rein instructor could employ this on any or all of the tethering points of the trainee to further adjust and correct body positioning.
in embodiments of the present device, the reins can be readily folded up and stored in a pouch or garment pocket when not in use, and can then be conveniently unraveled and re-attached without tangling when needed. Ski hill operators are typically concerned about loose clothing, equipment or straps that could be hazardous if they become caught in chair lifts, T-bars, gondolas or other equipment.
Various types of fastener or attachment mechanisms can be used to fasten the reins to the trainee's clothing or equipment at the tethering points. For example, the ankle reins can comprise adjustable bands that encircle the ski boots at the ankle and are secured by hook and loop fasteners or buckled loops as illustrated by band 871 of
As mentioned above, the disclosed method and device can comprise a ski tip coupler to provide enhanced stability to the trainee's lower body. A ski tip coupler can be attached to the tips of the trainee's skis, for example, to ensure correct positioning of the skis within the position range of a wide parallel to a wedge, thus preventing the skis from straying into a diverging configuration that could lead to a fall. This is particularly beneficial in embodiments of the device in which the tethering points are at the ski tips, such as those illustrated in
a and
Various types of anchoring mechanisms can be used to temporarily attach them to the front portion of the skis. Examples include clamps or grips which grip the upper and lower surfaces of the skis, loops that encircle and can be tightened around the front portion of each ski, or a hook-and-eye type of mechanism where an eye bolt is screwed or riveted through the top surface of each ski and the connector has a hook or clip at each end which can be clipped to the eye bolts. The ski tip coupler and the reins can be connected to the ski tips via the same ski tip anchor, or via different components.
Consideration should be given to the size and weight of the trainee relative to the instructor. Most embodiments of the method are particularly suitable for an adult instructing a child trainee. The closer the instructor and trainee are in size, the more capable a skier the instructor must be in order to manage guiding and regulating the speed and movement of the trainee.
While particular elements, embodiments and applications of the present disclosure have been shown and described, it will be understood that the scope of the disclosure is not limited thereto, since modifications can be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the present disclosure, particularly in light of the foregoing teachings.
This application is related to and claims priority benefits under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) from U.S. Provisional Patent Applications: Ser. No. 61/143,334 entitled “Method and Device for Training and Assisting Alpine Skiers”, filed on Jan. 8, 2009 and Ser. No. 61/144,427 entitled “Method and Device for Training and Assisting Alpine Skiers”, filed on Jan. 13, 2009, which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 61143334 | Jan 2009 | US | |
| 61144427 | Jan 2009 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | 12683660 | Jan 2010 | US |
| Child | 13895060 | US |
