BACKGROUND
The length of a conventional snowboard is between about 55 inches to about 65 inches. The length and weight of a conventional snowboard makes traveling with and transporting a conventional snowboard difficult, cumbersome, and unwieldy. Transporting a snowboard in a vehicle from a user's residence to a snowboarding destination usually requires the snowboard to be secured to a luggage carrier on top or at the rear of the vehicle, with associated logistic issues involved in the subsequent transportation of the secured snowboard. As used herein, the term “user” refers to any individual who performs a sportsboard activity using a sportsboard. For example, the user is a snowboarder who snowboards using a snowboard. After the user reaches the snowboarding destination, transportation of the snowboard to the top of a hill, where the user snowboards, usually requires the use of a duffel type snowboard bag equipped with rollers. Therefore, there is a long-felt need for a portable snowboard configured to be readily disassembled for transportation of the snowboard, and readily reassembled prior to riding the snowboard down a hill.
A conventional snowboard comprises a core with a substantially horizontal surface, sandwiched between multiple layers of material such as fiberglass to create the snowboard. The core of the conventional snowboard is generally cut from a single sheet of a material, for example, hardwood, carbon fiber, the Kevlar® synthetic fiber of E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Company, aluminum, etc., to provide stability and reliability to the snowboard when the user rides the snowboard, for example, down a slope of a hill. It is difficult to travel with and/or transport the conventional snowboard constructed from a single 65-inch long sheet.
Moreover, users usually carry personal items, for example, cards, keys, money, a first aid kit, user devices such as a mobile phone, a smartphone, etc., on their person or in a backpack when they go for snowboarding. Carrying personal items on their person or wearing a backpack to carry personal items during snowboarding is not desirable, is uncomfortable and burdensome, and often results in the loss of such items when the user travels at high speeds down a hill and when the snowboard traverses over a bump on a slope of the hill, takes a sharp turn on the slope, collides with an obstruction on the slope, etc. A conventional snowboard does not provide a compartment to store personal items.
Snowboarding, especially during low light conditions caused due to changes in weather, snow patterns, etc., is a challenge for any snowboarder and therefore, requires a lighting arrangement built into the snowboard. Furthermore, snowboarders may want to record a video of their snowboarding session, especially if the snowboarder is a professional who competes in multiple events. Other users may also want to record a snowboarding session, for example, to record traversed areas, to record their progress for training and educational purposes, to map the geography of an area, etc. Moreover, during a snowboarding session, it is typically difficult to establish real-time communication between a user and a base station that is operated by workers, for example, rescue personnel, tracking assistants, etc. Conventional snowboards do not include in-built accessories that are beneficial to a user and assist the user in recording a live video of a snowboarding session, obtaining a clear view of a landscape where snowboarding is being performed, indicating a possibility or a probability of a crash, communicating with a base station regarding progress of the snowboarding session, and providing the user's location, for example, in case of a crash or an avalanche.
Some conventional snowboards are foldable, but pose a challenge of getting accidentally folded when the user is engaged in a snowboarding session. As the user passes through rough terrains and hidden rocky portions under a snow cover, there is a high probability of the snowboard getting folded, which may result in a major accident and injuries to the user. Furthermore, a conventional snowboard is susceptible to bending or breakage, especially along a central portion of the snowboard during a snowboarding session. This is due to rocky patches, surfaces, etc., that lie beneath snow-covered terrains or hardened ice that may appear harmless to tread on during the snowboarding session. A direct impact of the snowboard on such surfaces may damage the snowboard and cause a breakage along the central portion of the snowboard. The central portion requires a reinforcement to counter such breakage or damage.
Hence, there is a long-felt need for a portable snowboard with detachable parts configured to be readily disassembled into component parts for transportation of the snowboard, and thereafter readily reassembled when the user reaches a snowboarding destination, for example, a hill, from where the user rides the snowboard downhill. Furthermore, there is a long-felt need for a portable snowboard which, after assembly from its component parts, is stable and robust for its intended purpose, that is, riding the snowboard downhill at a substantially high speed. Furthermore, there is a long-felt need for a portable snowboard comprising one or more compartments for securely storing personal items of the user and for provisioning in-built accessories that assist the user in live video recording, provide a lighting arrangement for obtaining a clear view of a landscape where snowboarding is being performed, provide sensing systems that indicate a crash probability, and provide a transponder mechanism and a location-indicating mechanism. Furthermore, there is a long-felt need for mechanisms that prevent accidental folding, bending, and breakage of the snowboard.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further disclosed in the detailed description of the invention. This summary is not intended to determine the scope of the claimed subject matter.
The apparatus disclosed herein addresses the above-recited needs for a portable snowboard with detachable parts configured to be readily disassembled into component parts for transportation of the portable snowboard, and thereafter readily reassembled when a user reaches a snowboarding destination, for example, a hill, from where the user rides the portable snowboard downhill. After assembly from its component parts, the portable snowboard disclosed herein is stable and robust for its intended purpose, that is, riding the portable snowboard downhill at a substantially high speed. The portable snowboard disclosed herein comprises one or more compartments for securely storing personal items of the user, thereby precluding the need to carry the personal items on the user's person or in a backpack that may result in a loss of the personal items when the user rides the portable snowboard downhill at a relatively high speed. The compartment(s) of the portable snowboard also allow for provisioning in-built accessories that assist the user in live video recording, provide a lighting arrangement for obtaining a clear view of a landscape where snowboarding is being performed, provide sensing systems that indicate a crash probability, and provide a transponder mechanism and a location-indicating mechanism. The portable snowboard disclosed herein further comprises an anti-folding member configured to prevent accidental folding, bending, and breakage of the portable snowboard.
The portable snowboard with detachable parts disclosed herein comprises a first planar section, a second planar section, an anti-folding member, and a conglomerate set of communication accessories. The first planar section comprises a first member of an interconnecting joint. The first planar section further comprises a first end and a second end. In an embodiment, the first end of the first planar section is inclined with respect to the first planar section, and the second end of the first planar section comprises the first member of the interconnecting joint. The second planar section comprises a second member of the interconnecting joint. The second planar section further comprises a first end and a second end. In an embodiment, the first end of the second planar section is inclined with respect to the second planar section, and the second end of the second planar section comprises the second member of the interconnecting joint. The first planar section and the second planar section are made of a rigid material, for example, a high-density polyethylene (HDPE).
The first member of the interconnecting joint is detachably fastened to the second member of the interconnecting joint to engage the first planar section with the second planar section to form the portable snowboard. In an embodiment, the first member and the second member of the interconnecting joint are splice joints. The splice joints comprise, for example, one of a half lap splice joint, a bevel lap splice joint, a tabled splice joint, a tapered finger splice joint, etc. In an embodiment, the second member of the second planar section is a tail joint and the first member of the first planar section is a socket, and vice versa. In an embodiment, the tail joint is detachably fastened to the socket by application of a glue, for example, a removable glue, to the interconnecting joint. In another embodiment, magnetic elements, for example, strong magnets, are positioned in the tail joint and the socket for detachably fastening the tail joint to the socket. In an embodiment, the first member of the interconnecting joint slideably engages and locks to the second member of the interconnecting joint to connect the first planar section and the second planar section to form the portable snowboard. In an embodiment, the portable snowboard forms a generally oval shape when the first planar section and the second planar section are detachably engaged with each other. The first planar section and the second planar section further comprise in-built compartments. The in-built compartments are configured to store personal items comprising, for example, tools, user devices such as a mobile phone, a smartphone, headphones, a media player, etc., communication accessories, fasteners, cards, money, etc.
The anti-folding member is detachably attached between the first planar section and the second planar section. The anti-folding member is coplanar in construction with the first planar section and the second planar section to prevent a relative folding between the first planar section and the second planar section. In an embodiment, the anti-folding member is a retractable support pin assembly comprising at least two retractable support pins that are inserted between the first planar section and the second planar section. In an embodiment, the retractable support pins are configured to retract within either of the first planar section and the second planar section. The retractable support pin assembly is configured to extend between the first planar section and the second planar section in an open position of the snowboard and prevent the relative folding between the first planar section and the second planar section. In another embodiment, the anti-folding member is a non-retractable support pin assembly comprising at least two support pins that are inserted between the first planar section and the second planar section for preventing the relative folding between the first planar section and the second planar section.
The communication accessories in the conglomerate set are positioned on predefined sections of the first planar section and the second planar section. In an embodiment, the conglomerate set of communication accessories is configured to record and transmit information regarding a snowboarding session using the portable snowboard to a base station. In another embodiment, the conglomerate set of communication accessories is configured to record and transmit information regarding a snowboarding session using the portable snowboard to a user device, for example, a smartphone, a tablet computing device, a laptop, a workstation, etc. In an embodiment, the conglomerate set of communication accessories comprises a crash notification system comprising one or more sensors positioned inside one or more of the in-built compartments and configured to provide information regarding crash points that are spread out over terrains where the snowboarding session is performed. The crash notification system is further configured to transmit the information regarding the crash points to a crash information receiver module of the base station via a communication network. In another embodiment, the conglomerate set of communication accessories comprises a battery-free transponder positioned inside one or more of the in-built compartments. The battery-free transponder is configured to respond to signals received from a corresponding transponder receiver module of the base station via a communication network, to assist in detecting the portable snowboard during an accident. In another embodiment, the conglomerate set of communication accessories comprises a personal locator beacon positioned inside one or more of the in-built compartments. The personal locator beacon is configured to transmit information regarding a location of the user using the portable snowboard to a location receiver module of the base station via a communication network, during the snowboarding session.
In an embodiment, the portable snowboard further comprises a front lighting system comprising one or more light emitting diode (LED) lights positioned at an edge proximal to the first end of the first planar section. Furthermore, the portable snowboard further comprises a rear lighting system comprising one or more LED lights positioned at an edge proximal to the first end of the second planar section. The LED light(s) of the front lighting system or the rear lighting system is configured to emit light to provide a clear view of a path in front of the portable snowboard based on the orientation of the portable snowboard. In an embodiment, the portable snowboard further comprises a front camera positioned at an edge proximal to the first end of the first planar section, and a rear camera positioned at an edge proximal to the first end of the second planar section. The front camera and the rear camera are configured to be activated based on the orientation of the portable snowboard and record a video of the snowboarding session performed by the user without video loss.
In another embodiment, the portable snowboard with detachable parts disclosed herein comprises a first planar section, a second planar section, a lockable hinge, an anti-folding member, and the conglomerate set of communication accessories disclosed above. A first end of the first planar section is inclined with respect to the first planar section. A first end of the second planar section is inclined with respect to the second planar section. In this embodiment, the lockable hinge is positioned between the first planar section and the second planar section. The lockable hinge is configured to detachably engage the second end of the first planar section with the second end of the second planar section. In an embodiment, the lockable hinge comprises a detachably attachable locking lever. The detachably attachable locking lever is configured to be inserted into and removed from a socket of the lockable hinge to lock and unlock the lockable hinge, respectively. The portable snowboard is configured to be foldable at the lockable hinge. In an embodiment, the anti-folding member is a cross-wired tension rope assembly comprising two tension ropes that are cross wired and supported on the first planar section and the second planar section by poles at distal ends of the two tension ropes. The cross-wired tension rope assembly is positioned across the lockable hinge. The cross-wired tension rope assembly is configured to prevent the relative folding between the first planar section and the second planar section along the lockable hinge. In an embodiment, the portable snowboard with detachable parts disclosed herein further comprises a front lighting system, a rear lighting system, a front camera, and a rear camera as disclosed above.
In one or more embodiments, related systems comprise circuitry and/or programming for executing the methods disclosed herein. The circuitry and/or programming comprise one or any combination of hardware, software, and/or firmware configured to execute the methods disclosed herein depending upon the design choices of a system designer. In an embodiment, various structural elements are employed depending on the design choices of the system designer.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description of the invention, is better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For illustrating the invention, exemplary constructions of the embodiments are shown in the drawings. However, the embodiments herein are not limited to the specific components and structures disclosed herein. The description of a component or a structure referenced by a numeral in a drawing is applicable to the description of that component or structure shown by that same numeral in any subsequent drawing herein.
FIG. 1A exemplarily illustrates a top perspective, assembled view of a first embodiment of a portable snowboard with detachable parts.
FIG. 1B exemplarily illustrates a top perspective, disassembled view of the first embodiment of the portable snowboard shown in FIG. 1A.
FIG. 1C exemplarily illustrates a top perspective view of a first planar section of the first embodiment of the portable snowboard shown in FIG. 1A.
FIG. 1D exemplarily illustrates a bottom perspective view of a second planar section of the first embodiment of the portable snowboard shown in FIG. 1A.
FIG. 1E exemplarily illustrates a bottom elevation, assembled view of the first embodiment of the portable snowboard shown in FIG. 1A.
FIG. 1F exemplarily illustrates a top perspective, assembled view of another embodiment of the portable snowboard shown in FIG. 1A.
FIG. 1G exemplarily illustrates a top perspective, assembled view of another embodiment of the portable snowboard shown in FIG. 1A.
FIG. 2A exemplarily illustrates a top perspective, assembled view of a second embodiment of the portable snowboard with detachable parts.
FIG. 2B exemplarily illustrates a top perspective, disassembled view of the second embodiment of the portable snowboard shown in FIG. 2A.
FIG. 2C exemplarily illustrates a bottom elevation, assembled view of the second embodiment of the portable snowboard shown in FIG. 2A.
FIG. 2D exemplarily illustrates a top perspective, assembled view of another embodiment of the portable snowboard shown in FIG. 2A.
FIG. 3A exemplarily illustrates a top perspective, assembled view of a third embodiment of the portable snowboard with detachable parts.
FIG. 3B exemplarily illustrates a top perspective, assembled view of the third embodiment of the portable snowboard shown in FIG. 3A, showing the second planar section hinged and partially folded with respect to the first planar section via a lockable hinge.
FIG. 3C exemplarily illustrates a bottom elevation, assembled view of the third embodiment of the portable snowboard shown in FIG. 3A.
FIG. 3D exemplarily illustrates a top perspective, assembled view of another embodiment of the portable snowboard shown in FIG. 3A.
FIG. 4A exemplarily illustrates a top perspective, assembled view of a fourth embodiment of the portable snowboard with detachable parts, showing a front edge of the portable snowboard comprising a lighting system and an attached in-built camera.
FIG. 4B exemplarily illustrates a top perspective, disassembled view of the fourth embodiment of the portable snowboard shown in FIG. 4A, showing embodiments of an anti-folding member and a conglomerate set of communication accessories.
FIG. 4C exemplarily illustrates a top perspective, disassembled view of the fourth embodiment of the portable snowboard shown in FIG. 4A, showing a rear edge of the portable snowboard comprising a lighting system and an attached in-built camera.
FIG. 4D exemplarily illustrates a bottom elevation, assembled view of the fourth embodiment of the portable snowboard shown in FIG. 4A.
FIG. 5A exemplarily illustrates a top perspective, assembled view of a fifth embodiment of the portable snowboard with detachable parts, showing another embodiment of the anti-folding member.
FIG. 5B exemplarily illustrates a bottom elevation, assembled view of the fifth embodiment of the portable snowboard shown in FIG. 5A.
FIG. 6A exemplarily illustrates a top perspective, assembled view of a sixth embodiment of the portable snowboard with detachable parts, showing another embodiment of the anti-folding member.
FIG. 6B exemplarily illustrates a top perspective, disassembled view of the sixth embodiment of the portable snowboard shown in FIG. 6A.
FIG. 6C exemplarily illustrates a bottom elevation, assembled view of the sixth embodiment of the portable snowboard shown in FIG. 6A.
FIG. 7A exemplarily illustrates a top perspective, assembled view of a seventh embodiment of the portable snowboard with detachable parts, comprising straps.
FIG. 7B exemplarily illustrates a top perspective, assembled view of the seventh embodiment of the portable snowboard shown in FIG. 7A, showing the first planar section and the second planar section folded and bound by one of the straps.
FIG. 8 exemplarily illustrates a top perspective, disassembled view of an eighth embodiment of the portable snowboard with detachable parts, showing an embodiment for engaging the first planar section with the second planar section.
FIG. 9 exemplarily illustrates a top perspective, assembled view of a ninth embodiment of the portable snowboard with detachable parts, comprising detachable straps.
FIG. 10 exemplarily illustrates a block diagram of an exemplary implementation of a system comprising a base station configured to operably communicate with the conglomerate set of communication accessories of the portable snowboard.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
For purposes of illustration, the detailed description refers to a portable snowboard with detachable parts; however, the scope of the apparatus disclosed herein is not limited to a portable snowboard, but extends to include any sportsboard, for example, a skateboard, a surfboard, a wakeboard, etc.
FIG. 1A exemplarily illustrates a top perspective, assembled view of a first embodiment of a portable snowboard 101 with detachable parts. The portable snowboard 101 with detachable parts disclosed herein comprises a first planar section 102 and a second planar section 103. The first planar section 102 and the second planar section 103 are made of a rigid material, for example, high-density polyethylene (HDPE). The first planar section 102 comprises a first member 104a of an interconnecting joint 104. The first planar section 102 further comprises a first end 102a and a second end 102b. In an embodiment as exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 1A, the first end 102a of the first planar section 102 is inclined with respect to the first planar section 102, and the second end 102b of the first planar section 102 comprises the first member 104a of the interconnecting joint 104. The first end 102a of the first planar section 102 is inclined at an angle of, for example, about 5 degrees to about 90 degrees with respect to a horizontal surface 109 of the first planar section 102. The first planar section 102 further comprises a front binding 105 positioned on and attached to an upper surface 102c of the first planar section 102. In an embodiment, an angle of orientation of the front binding 105 with respect to the upper surface 102c of the first planar section 102 is adjustable.
The second planar section 103 comprises a second member 104b of the interconnecting joint 104. The second planar section 103 further comprises a first end 103a and a second end 103b. In an embodiment as exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 1A, the first end 103a of the second planar section 103 is inclined with respect to the second planar section 103, and the second end 103b of the second planar section 103 comprises the second member 104b of the interconnecting joint 104. The first end 103a of the second planar section 103 is inclined at an angle of, for example, about 5 degrees to about 90 degrees with respect to a horizontal surface 110 of the second planar section 103. The inclination of the first end 102a of the first planar section 102 and the first end 103a of the second planar section 103 assists a user in navigating slopes and different terrains at a snowboarding destination during a snowboarding session. The second planar section 103 further comprises a rear binding 106 positioned on and attached to an upper surface 103c of the second planar section 103. In an embodiment, an angle of orientation of the rear binding 106 with respect to the upper surface 103c of the second planar section 103 is adjustable. The front binding 105 and the rear binding 106 secure snowboarding footwear worn by a user during a snowboarding session, to the first planar section 102 and the second planar section 103 of the portable snowboard 101, respectively, and provide a direct connection of the user's feet to the portable snowboard 101. The front binding 105 and the rear binding 106 transfer the user's body, leg, and feet muscle movements to the portable snowboard 101. The front binding 105 and the rear binding 106 allow the user to control the portable snowboard 101 with ease, while absorbing vibrations and keeping the user's feet comfortable. The front binding 105 and the rear binding 106 are selected, for example, from one of strap in bindings, rear-entry bindings, burton step-on bindings, etc. The front binding 105 and the rear binding 106 are made, for example, from plastic, aluminum, steel, metal, foam, etc., and any combination thereof. The front binding 105 and the rear binding 106 are categorized, for example, into freestyle, all-mountain, and freeride bindings based on the user's riding style.
The first member 104a of the interconnecting joint 104 is detachably fastened to the second member 104b of the interconnecting joint 104 to engage the first planar section 102 with the second planar section 103 to form the portable snowboard 101. In an embodiment, when the first planar section 102 is detachably engaged with the second planar section 103, the portable snowboard 101 forms a generally oval shape as exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 1A. The first planar section 102 and the second planar section 103 further comprise in-built compartments 107 and 108, respectively. The in-built compartments 107 and 108 are configured to store items comprising, for example, tools, user devices such as a mobile phone, a wearable computing device, a smartphone, a media player, etc., communication accessories, headphones, fasteners, cards, money, etc.
FIG. 1B exemplarily illustrates a top perspective, disassembled view of the first embodiment of the portable snowboard 101 shown in FIG. 1A. As exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 1B, the first planar section 102 and the second planar section 103 of the portable snowboard 101 are positioned along a longitudinal axis 111 of the portable snowboard 101. In an embodiment, the first member 104a and the second member 104b of the interconnecting joint 104 of the first planar section 102 and the second planar section 103, respectively, are members of a splice joint comprising, for example, a half lap splice joint, a bevel lap splice joint, a tabled splice joint, a tapered finger splice joint, etc. As exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 1B, the first member 104a and the second member 104b of the interconnecting joint 104 form a half lap splice joint. The first member 104a forms an under-lapping member of the half lap splice joint and the second member 104b forms an overlapping member of the half lap splice joint. As exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 1B, the first member 104a and the second member 104b comprise screw holes 104d and 104e, respectively, that are collinear with each other when the second member 104b of the interconnecting joint 104 is positioned over and fastened to the first member 104a of the interconnecting joint 104 using fasteners, for example, screws 104c. The screws 104c are used to removably fasten the second member 104b to the first member 104a of the interconnecting joint 104. In an embodiment, the screws 104c are flathead or countersink screws. The first member 104a of the interconnecting joint 104 is detachably fastened to the second member 104b of the interconnecting joint 104 to connect the first planar section 102 to the second planar section 103 to form the portable snowboard 101. Screwheads of the screws 104c sit flush in the screw holes 104e of the second member 104b when the first member 104a and the second member 104b are interconnected and fastened to each other by the screws 104c inserted through the screw holes 104d and 104e, respectively, as exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 1A.
The front binding 105 and the rear binding 106 are attached to the upper surfaces 102c and 103c of the first planar section 102 and the second planar section 103, respectively, using fasteners, for example, screws. The front binding 105 and the rear binding 106 are, for example, one of strap-in bindings, step-in bindings, and hybrid bindings. In an embodiment, the front binding 105 and the rear binding 106 are detachably attached to the first planar section 102 and the second planar section 103, respectively. FIG. 1B also exemplarily illustrates the in-built compartments 107 and 108 in the first planar section 102 and the second planar section 103 of the portable snowboard 101, respectively, in an open condition.
FIG. 1C exemplarily illustrates a top perspective view of the first planar section 102 of the first embodiment of the portable snowboard 101 shown in FIG. 1A. As exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 1C, the second end 102b of the first planar section 102 comprises the first member 104a of the interconnecting joint 104 exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 1A. The first member 104a configured, for example, as an under-lapping member of a half lap splice joint, comprises the screw holes 104d for inserting the screws 104c exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 1B, used for fastening the first member 104a to the second member 104b of the interconnecting joint 104 exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 1D. Also, shown in FIG. 1C, is the front binding 105 and an in-built compartment 107 accommodated in the first planar section 102 of the portable snowboard 101.
FIG. 1D exemplarily illustrates a bottom perspective view of the second planar section 103 of the first embodiment of the portable snowboard 101 shown in FIG. 1A. The bottom perspective view in FIG. 1D shows a base 103d of the second planar section 103. As exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 1D, the second end 103b of the second planar section 103 comprises the second member 104b of the interconnecting joint 104 exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 1A. The second member 104b extends outwardly from the second end 103b of the second planar section 103. The second member 104b configured, for example, as an overlapping member of a half lap splice joint, comprises the screw holes 104e for inserting the screws 104c exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 1B, used for fastening the second member 104b to the first member 104a of the interconnecting joint 104 exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 1C. In an embodiment (not shown), the first member 104a of the first planar section 102 is configured as the overlapping member of the half lap splice joint, and the second member 104b of the second planar section 103 is configured as the under-lapping member of the half lap splice joint, such that the first member 104a is detachably fastened to the second member 104b, for example, using the screws 104c, to engage the first planar section 102 with the second planar section 103. Also, shown in FIG. 1D, is an in-built compartment 108 accommodated in the second planar section 103 of the portable snowboard 101.
FIG. 1E exemplarily illustrates a bottom elevation, assembled view of the first embodiment of the portable snowboard 101 shown in FIG. 1A. FIG. 1E shows bases 102d and 103d of the first planar section 102 and the second planar section 103 of the portable snowboard 101, respectively, that contact a ground surface or a terrain of a snowboarding destination. Examples of the construction of the bases 102d and 103d are an extruded construction and a sintered construction. The first planar section 102 is engaged with the second planar section 103 at the interconnecting joint 104 by detachably fastening the second member 104b to the first member 104a of the interconnecting joint 104 exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 1B-1D, such that a seamless surface, without any gaps between the first member 104a and the second member 104b of the interconnecting joint 104, is created on an upper surface of the portable snowboard 101 exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 1A and on a base of the portable snowboard 101 exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 1E.
FIG. 1F exemplarily illustrates a top perspective, assembled view of another embodiment of the portable snowboard 101 shown in FIG. 1A. In an embodiment as exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 1F, the first end 102a of the first planar section 102 of the portable snowboard 101 is not inclined with respect to the horizontal surface 109 of the first planar section 102. The first end 103a of the second planar section 103 of the portable snowboard 101 is also not inclined with respect to the horizontal surface 110 of the second planar section 103. The ends 102a and 103a of the portable snowboard 101, without inclination, provide a stable and a slower ride, making the non-inclined portable snowboard 101 a good option for beginners.
FIG. 1G exemplarily illustrates a top perspective, assembled view of another embodiment of the portable snowboard 101 shown in FIG. 1A. In an embodiment as exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 1G, the first end 102a of the first planar section 102 of the portable snowboard 101 is inclined, for example, at an angle of about 5 degrees to about 90 degrees with respect to the horizontal surface 109 of the first planar section 102, while the first end 103a of the second planar section 103 of the portable snowboard 101 is not inclined with respect to the horizontal surface 110 of the second planar section 103. The inclination at the first end 102a of the first planar section 102 reduces the likelihood of catching an edge and makes turn initiation easier, and the non-inclined first end 103a of the second planar section 103 provides a stable and a slow ride.
FIG. 2A exemplarily illustrates a top perspective, assembled view of a second embodiment of the portable snowboard 201 with detachable parts. The portable snowboard 201 with detachable parts disclosed herein comprises a first planar section 202 and a second planar section 203. The first planar section 202 and the second planar section 203 are made of a rigid material, for example, high-density polyethylene (HDPE). The first planar section 202 comprises a first end 202a and a second end 202b. The first end 202a of the first planar section 202 is inclined at an angle of, for example, about 5 degrees to about 90 degrees with respect to a horizontal surface 209 of the first planar section 202. The second end 202b of the first planar section 202 comprises a first member 204a of an interconnecting joint 204. The first planar section 202 further comprises a front binding 205 positioned on and attached to an upper surface 202c of the first planar section 202. In an embodiment, an angle of orientation of the front binding 205 with respect to the upper surface 202c of the first planar section 202 is adjustable.
The second planar section 203 comprises a first end 203a and a second end 203b. The first end 203a of the second planar section 203 is inclined at an angle of, for example, about 5 degrees to about 90 degrees with respect to a horizontal surface 210 of the second planar section 203. The second end 203b of the second planar section 203 comprises a second member 204b of the interconnecting joint 204. The second planar section 203 further comprises a rear binding 206 positioned on and attached to an upper surface 203c of the second planar section 203. In an embodiment, an angle of orientation of the rear binding 206 with respect to the upper surface 203c of the second planar section 203 is adjustable. The first member 204a of the interconnecting joint 204 slideably engages with and locks into the second member 204b of the interconnecting joint 204 to connect the first planar section 202 to the second planar section 203 to form the portable snowboard 201. The portable snowboard 201 is generally oval shaped when the first planar section 202 and the second planar section 203 are detachably engaged with each other. The first planar section 202 and the second planar section 203 further comprise in-built compartments 207 and 208, respectively. The in-built compartments 207 and 208 are configured to store items comprising, for example, tools, user devices, communication accessories, fasteners, cards, money, etc.
FIG. 2B exemplarily illustrates a top perspective, disassembled view of the second embodiment of the portable snowboard 201 shown in FIG. 2A. The first member 204a of the interconnecting joint 204 of the portable snowboard 201 slideably engages with and locks into the second member 204b of the interconnecting joint 204 to detachably connect the first planar section 202 to the second planar section 203 to form the portable snowboard 201. In an embodiment, the second member 204b is placed above and in contact with the first member 204a to align with the first member 204a. The second member 204b is then detachably locked into the first member 204a by application of a force on the upper surface 203c of the second planar section 203 or on the second member 204b of the interconnecting joint 204. In an embodiment, the second member 204b of the second planar section 203 is a tail joint and the first member 204a of the first planar section 202 is a socket as exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 2B, and vice versa. In an embodiment, the fastening or detachable locking of the tail joint and the socket is facilitated by application of an adhesive, for example, a removable glue, to the interconnecting joint 204. That is, the tail joint is detachably fastened to the socket by the application of an adhesive to the interconnecting joint 204. In another embodiment, the fastening of the tail joint and the socket is facilitated by strong magnets. In this embodiment, the tail joint and the socket comprise magnetic elements that are magnetically engageable with each other. The magnetic element positioned in the tail joint is magnetically attracted to the magnetic element positioned in the socket, thereby detachably fastening the tail joint to the socket. The front binding 205 and the rear binding 206 are attached to the upper surface 202c of the first planar section 202 and the upper surface 203c of the second planar section 203, respectively, using fasteners, for example, screws. The front binding 205 and the rear binding 206 are, for example, one of strap-in bindings, step-in bindings, and hybrid bindings. In an embodiment, the front binding 205 and the rear binding 206 are detachably attached to the first planar section 202 and the second planar section 203, respectively. FIG. 2B also exemplarily illustrates the in-built compartments 207 and 208 in the first planar section 202 and the second planar section 203 of the portable snowboard 201, respectively, in an open condition.
FIG. 2C exemplarily illustrates a bottom elevation, assembled view of the second embodiment of the portable snowboard 201 shown in FIG. 2A. FIG. 2C shows bases 202d and 203d of the first planar section 202 and the second planar section 203 of the portable snowboard 201, respectively, that contact a ground surface or a terrain of a snowboarding destination. The first planar section 202 is engaged with the second planar section 203 at the interconnecting joint 204 by detachably attaching the second member 204b to the first member 204a of the interconnecting joint 204 such that a seamless and smooth surface, without any gaps between the first member 204a and the second member 204b of the interconnecting joint 204, is created on an upper surface of the portable snowboard 201 exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 2A and on a base of the portable snowboard 201 exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 2C.
FIG. 2D exemplarily illustrates a top perspective, assembled view of another embodiment of the portable snowboard 201 shown in FIG. 2A. In an embodiment as exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 2D, the first end 202a of the first planar section 202 of the portable snowboard 201 is not inclined with respect to the horizontal surface 209 of the first planar section 202, and the first end 203a of the second planar section 203 of the portable snowboard 201 is not inclined with respect to the horizontal surface 210 of the second planar section 203.
FIG. 3A exemplarily illustrates a top perspective, assembled view of a third embodiment of the portable snowboard 301 with detachable parts. The portable snowboard 301 with detachable parts disclosed herein comprises a first planar section 302, a second planar section 303, and a lockable hinge 304. The first planar section 302 and the second planar section 303 are made of a rigid material, for example, high-density polyethylene (HDPE). The first planar section 302 comprises a first end 302a and a second end 302b. The first end 302a of the first planar section 302 is inclined at an angle of, for example, about 5 degrees to about 90 degrees with respect to a horizontal surface 309 of the first planar section 302. The first planar section 302 further comprises a front binding 305 positioned on and attached to an upper surface 302c of the first planar section 302. In an embodiment, an angle of orientation of the front binding 305 with respect to the upper surface 302c of the first planar section 302 is adjustable. The second planar section 303 comprises a first end 303a and a second end 303b. The first end 303a of the second planar section 303 is inclined at an angle of, for example, about 5 degrees to about 90 degrees with respect to a horizontal surface 310 of the second planar section 303. The second planar section 303 further comprises a rear binding 306 positioned on and attached to an upper surface 303c of the second planar section 303. In an embodiment, an angle of orientation of the rear binding 306 with respect to the upper surface 303c of the second planar section 303 is adjustable.
The lockable hinge 304 is positioned between the first planar section 302 and the second planar section 303. The lockable hinge 304 is configured to detachably engage the second end 302b of the first planar section 302 with the second end 303b of the second planar section 303 to form the portable snowboard 301. The portable snowboard 301 is configured to be foldable at the lockable hinge 304. The portable snowboard 301 is generally oval shaped when the first planar section 302 and the second planar section 303 are detachably engaged with each other. The first planar section 302 and the second planar section 303 further comprise in-built compartments 307 and 308, respectively. The in-built compartments 307 and 308 are configured to store items comprising, for example, tools, user devices, communication accessories, fasteners, cards, money, etc.
FIG. 3B exemplarily illustrates a top perspective, assembled view of the third embodiment of the portable snowboard 301 shown in FIG. 3A, showing the second planar section 303 hinged and partially folded with respect to the first planar section 302 via the lockable hinge 304. As exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 3B, the portable snowboard 301 is folded at the lockable hinge 304. The lockable hinge 304 permits motion of the first planar section 302 and the second planar section 303 only in one plane. In an embodiment, the lockable hinge 304 comprises a detachably attachable locking lever 311. The detachably attachable locking lever 311 is configured to be inserted into and removed from a socket 304a of the lockable hinge 304 to lock and unlock the lockable hinge 304, respectively. The locking lever 311 of the lockable hinge 304 allows the first planar section 302 and the second planar section 303 to be locked in any desired position. The locking lever 311 is detachably attached to the lockable hinge 304 as exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 3B. The locking lever 311 is inserted into the socket 304a and turned, for example, in a clockwise direction, to lock the lockable hinge 304, and turned in a counterclockwise direction to unlock the lockable hinge 304. The socket 304a is, for example, a hexagonal socket, a square socket, etc., with angled walls. The locking lever 311 comprises an engagement rod 311a configured to be inserted into the socket 304a. In an embodiment, the socket 304a comprises a threaded internal wall and the engagement rod 311a comprises threads on its outer surface. The threads on the outer surface of the engagement rod 311a engage with the threaded internal wall of the socket 304a for detachably attaching the locking lever 311 to the lockable hinge 304. The locking lever 311 is turned, for example, in a clockwise direction, to lock the lockable hinge 304, and in a counterclockwise direction to unlock the lockable hinge 304.
FIG. 3C exemplarily illustrates a bottom elevation, assembled view of the third embodiment of the portable snowboard 301 shown in FIG. 3A. FIG. 3C shows bases 302d and 303d of the first planar section 302 and the second planar section 303 of the portable snowboard 301, respectively, that contact a ground surface or a terrain of a snowboarding destination. The first planar section 302 and the second planar section 303 attached by the lockable hinge 304 provide a smooth surface without any gaps in the base of the portable snowboard 301.
FIG. 3D exemplarily illustrates a top perspective, assembled view of another embodiment of the portable snowboard 301 shown in FIG. 3A. As exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 3D, the first end 302a of the first planar section 302 of the portable snowboard 301 is not inclined with respect to the horizontal surface 309 of the first planar section 302, and the first end 303a of the second planar section 303 of the portable snowboard 301 is not inclined with respect to the horizontal surface 310 of the second planar section 303.
FIG. 4A exemplarily illustrates a top perspective, assembled view of a fourth embodiment of the portable snowboard 401 with detachable parts, showing a front edge 102e of the portable snowboard 401 comprising a lighting system 112 and an attached in-built camera 113. To provide a clear view of a landscape where snowboarding is being performed, especially during low light conditions caused due to changes in weather, snow patterns, etc., the portable snowboard 401 comprises a front lighting system 112 comprising one or more light emitting diode (LED) lights, for example, two LED lights 112a and 112b, positioned at a front portion of the portable snowboard 401, that is, at the front edge 102e proximal to the first end 102a of the first planar section 102 of the portable snowboard 401 as exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 4A-4B. The LED lights 112a and 112b are configured to emit light to provide a clear view of a path in front of the portable snowboard 401. In an embodiment, the portable snowboard 401 further comprises a rear lighting system 122 comprising one or more LED lights, for example, two LED lights 122a and 122b, positioned at a rear portion of the portable snowboard 401, that is, at a rear edge 103e proximal to the first end 103a of the second planar section 103 of the portable snowboard 401 as exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 4C.
In an embodiment, the LED lights 112a and 112b of the front lighting system 112 and/or the LED lights 122a and 122b of the rear lighting system 122 are configured to emit light to provide a clear view of a path in front of the portable snowboard 401 based on an orientation of the portable snowboard 401. For example, the LED lights 112a and 112b of the front lighting system 112 positioned at the edge 102e proximal to the first end 102a of the first planar section 102 exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 4A-4B, are switched on when the first planar section 102 of the portable snowboard 401 is facing forward during a snowboarding session. Similarly, the LED lights 122a and 122b of the rear lighting system 122 positioned at the edge 103e proximal to the first end 103a of the second planar section 103 exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 4C, are switched on when the second planar section 103 of the portable snowboard 401 is facing forward during the snowboarding session. The LED lights 112a and 112b and/or 122a and 122b assist a user in navigating a path in low light conditions and other tough terrain conditions. The LED lights 112a, 112b, 122a, and 122b are high intensity LED lights that increase visibility of a snowy terrain. For example, during a snowboarding session, any object that is within a range of about 10 meters is clearly visible to the user through the use of the LED lights 112a, 112b, 122a, and 122b attached to the edges 102e and 103e of the portable snowboard 401. In an embodiment, each of the LED lights 112a, 112b, 122a, and 122b comprises a cone-shaped outer glass cover configured to reduce deposition of snow on the surface of each of the LED lights 112a, 112b, 122a, and 122b.
In addition to the front lighting system 112 and the rear lighting system 122, in an embodiment, the portable snowboard 401 further comprises a front camera 113 positioned at the edge 102e proximal to the first end 102a of the first planar section 102 as exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 4A-4B, and a rear camera 121 positioned at the edge 103e proximal to the first end 103a of the second planar section 103 as exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 4C. The front camera 113 and the rear camera 121 are configured to be activated based on an orientation of the portable snowboard 401 and record a video of the snowboarding session performed by the user without video loss. For example, the front camera 113 exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 4A-4B, is switched on when the first planar section 102 is facing forward during a snowboarding session. Similarly, the rear camera 121 exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 4C, is switched on when the second planar section 103 is facing forward during the snowboarding session. In an embodiment, both the front camera 113 and the rear camera 121 are switched on for simultaneously recording a live video of traversed areas during a snowboarding session, recording a landscape where snowboarding is being performed, etc.
The front camera 113 and the rear camera 121 allow a user to record a video, capture still images, etc., of a snowboarding session, for example, to record traversed areas, to record their progress for training and educational purposes, to map the geography of an area, etc. As exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 4A-4B, the LED lights 112a and 112b of the front lighting system 112 are positioned on opposite sides of the front camera 113 such that the light emitted from the LED lights 112a and 112b enhances the exposure of the front camera 113 to objects present in front of the front camera 113 during a video recording session using the front camera 113. Similarly, the LED lights 122a and 122b of the rear lighting system 122 exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 4C, are positioned on opposite sides of the rear camera 121 such that the light emitted from the LED lights 122a and 122b enhances the exposure of the rear camera 121 to objects present in front of the rear camera 121 during a video recording session using the rear camera 121. The front camera 113 and the rear camera 121 are, for example, GoPro® cameras of GoPro, Inc., configured to capture a real-time video of a snowboarding session when the portable snowboard 401 is in motion.
FIGS. 4B-4C exemplarily illustrate top perspective, disassembled views of the fourth embodiment of the portable snowboard 401 shown in FIG. 4A, showing embodiments of an anti-folding member 115 and a conglomerate set 114 of communication accessories. FIG. 4C also exemplarily illustrates the rear edge 103e of the portable snowboard 401 comprising the lighting system 122 and the attached in-built camera 121. In an embodiment, in addition to the front lighting system 112, the rear lighting system 122, the attached in-built front camera 113, and the attached in-built rear camera 121 disclosed in the description of FIG. 4A, the portable snowboard 401 further comprises an anti-folding member 115 detachably attached between the first planar section 102 and the second planar section 103. The anti-folding member 115 is coplanar in construction with the first planar section 102 and the second planar section 103 to prevent a relative folding between the first planar section 102 and the second planar section 103. In an embodiment, the anti-folding member 115 is a retractable support pin assembly 116 comprising at least two retractable support pins 116a and 116b that are inserted between the first planar section 102 and the second planar section 103. In an embodiment as exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 4A-4B, the retractable support pin assembly 116 further comprises a switch 116c positioned, for example, on one side 103f of the second planar section 103 of the portable snowboard 401, and configured to activate the retractable support pins 116a and 116b. The retractable support pins 116a and 116b are configured to retract, when the switch 116c is pressed, within the first planar section 102 or the second planar section 103. The retractable support pin assembly 116 is configured to extend between the first planar section 102 and the second planar section 103 in an open position of the portable snowboard 401 and prevent the relative folding between the first planar section 102 and the second planar section 103.
In an embodiment as exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 4B-4C, the first member 104a, positioned at the second end 102b of the first planar section 102, is configured as an under-lapping member of a half lap splice joint, and the second member 104b, positioned at the second end 103b of the second planar section 103, is configured as an overlapping member of the half lap splice joint. In this embodiment, when the portable snowboard 401 is disassembled as exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 4B-4C, the retractable support pins 116a and 116b extend from the second end 103b of the second planar section 103 for insertion into holes 116d in the second end 102b of the first planar section 102. When the portable snowboard 401 is assembled by sliding and fastening the second member 104b to the first member 104a using the screws 104c, the retractable support pins 116a and 116b are inserted into the holes 116d, thereby preventing a relative folding between the first planar section 102 and the second planar section 103.
Also shown in FIGS. 4B-4C are the in-built compartments 107 and 108 of the first planar section 102 and the second planar section 103, respectively, in an open condition. In an embodiment, a microcontroller 117 is provided within each of the in-built compartments 107 and 108. A power supply (not shown) for powering the microcontroller 117 and associated circuitry are also provided within each of the in-built compartments 107 and 108. The power supply also provides power to the respective lighting systems, that is, the front lighting system 112 and the rear lighting system 122 comprising the light emitting diode (LED) lights 112a, 112b and 122a, 122b, respectively, as disclosed in the description of FIG. 4A. Furthermore, in an embodiment, the portable snowboard 401 further comprises a conglomerate set 114 of communication accessories positioned on predefined sections of the first planar section 102 and the second planar section 103. For example, the conglomerate set 114 of communication accessories is accommodated within the in-built compartments 107 and 108 of the first planar section 102 and the second planar section 103, respectively, as exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 4B-4C. The conglomerate set 114 of communication accessories is configured to record and transmit information regarding a snowboarding session using the portable snowboard 401 to a base station 1001 exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 10. In an embodiment, the conglomerate set 114 of communication accessories is configured to record and transmit information regarding a snowboarding session using the portable snowboard 401 to a user device, for example, a smartphone, a tablet computing device, a laptop, a workstation, etc. In an embodiment, the conglomerate set 114 of communication accessories comprises a crash notification system 118, a battery-free transponder 119, and a personal locator beacon 120 as disclosed in the description of FIG. 10.
FIG. 4D exemplarily illustrates a bottom elevation, assembled view of the fourth embodiment of the portable snowboard 401 shown in FIG. 4A. FIG. 4D shows bases 102d and 103d of the first planar section 102 and the second planar section 103 of the portable snowboard 401, respectively, that contact a ground surface or a terrain of a snowboarding destination. The first planar section 102 is engaged with the second planar section 103 at the interconnecting joint 104 by detachably attaching the second member 104b to the first member 104a of the interconnecting joint 104 exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 4B-4C, such that a seamless and smooth surface, without any gaps between the first member 104a and the second member 104b of the interconnecting joint 104, is created on an upper surface of the portable snowboard 401 exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 4A and on a base of the portable snowboard 401 exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 4D.
FIG. 5A exemplarily illustrates a top perspective, assembled view of a fifth embodiment of the portable snowboard 501 with detachable parts, showing another embodiment of the anti-folding member 115. In an embodiment as exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 5A, the portable snowboard 501 comprises a lockable hinge 502 along which the first planar section 102 and the second planar section 103 of the portable snowboard 501 are configured to fold. To prevent the portable snowboard 501 from accidentally folding along the lockable hinge 502 while a user snowboards during a snowboarding session, which may result in an accident, the anti-folding member 115 exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 5A is detachably attached between the first planar section 102 and the second planar section 103. The anti-folding member 115 is coplanar in construction with the first planar section 102 and the second planar section 103 to the prevent a relative folding between the first planar section 102 and the second planar section 103. In the embodiment exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 5A, the anti-folding member 115 is a cross-wired tension rope assembly 504 comprising two tension ropes 504a and 504b that are cross wired and supported distally on the first planar section 102 and the second planar section 103 by poles 503. The poles 503 are attached to distal ends 504c, 504d, and 504e, 504f of the tension ropes 504a and 504b, respectively, for anchoring and supporting the tension ropes 504a and 504b on the first planar section 102 and the second planar section 103. The cross-wired tension rope assembly 504 is positioned across the lockable hinge 502. The cross-wired tension rope assembly 504 prevents the relative folding between the first planar section 102 and the second planar section 103 along the lockable hinge 502.
Due to the material of the tension ropes 504a and 504b, the first planar section 102 and the second planar section 103 are maintained under constant tension to avoid bending along the lockable hinge 502. If the lockable hinge 502 fails to keep the first planar section 102 and the second planar section 103 locked when the portable snowboard 501 encounters an impact from a rocky terrain under snow during a snowboarding session, the tension ropes 504a and 504b operate as a reinforcement or a secondary locking arrangement to sustain the first planar section 102 and the second planar section 103 in a relatively locked position. In an embodiment, the poles 503 are rotatable to increase the tension in the tension ropes 504a and 504b. In another case of failure of the lockable hinge 502 to keep the first planar section 102 and the second planar section 103 locked when the portable snowboard 501 encounters an impact from a rocky terrain under the snow during a snowboarding session, if the tension ropes 504a and 504b are maintained at a tension slightly below a maximum threshold tension of the material of the tension ropes 504a and 504b, then the low tension in the tension ropes 504a and 504b physically indicates a sensation of movement between the first planar section 102 and the second planar section 103 of the portable snowboard 501, thereby providing a clear indication to the user to stop the snowboarding session and check the portable snowboard 501 for any damage to the lockable hinge 502. By checking the portable snowboard 501 for any damage to the lockable hinge 502, the user can repair or replace the lockable hinge 502 and continue with the snowboarding session.
FIG. 5B exemplarily illustrates bottom elevation, assembled view of the fifth embodiment of the portable snowboard 501 shown in FIG. 5A. FIG. 5B shows bases 102d and 103d of the first planar section 102 and the second planar section 103 of the portable snowboard 501, respectively, that contact a ground surface or a terrain of a snowboarding destination. The first planar section 102 is engaged with the second planar section 103 by the lockable hinge 502 as exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 5B, such that a seamless and smooth surface, without any gaps, is created on an upper surface of the portable snowboard 501 exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 5A and on a base of the portable snowboard 501 exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 5B.
FIG. 6A exemplarily illustrates a top perspective, assembled view of a sixth embodiment of the portable snowboard 601 with detachable parts, showing another embodiment of the anti-folding member 115. In this embodiment, the anti-folding member 115 is a non-retractable support pin assembly 602 comprising at least two support pins 602a and 602b that are inserted between the first planar section 102 and the second planar section 103. The non-retractable support pin assembly 602 provides a reinforcement to counter breakage or damage of a central portion of the portable snowboard 601 during a snowboarding session, when the portable snowboard 601 impacts rocky patches that lie beneath snow-covered terrains or impacts hardened ice.
FIG. 6B exemplarily illustrates a top perspective, disassembled view of the sixth embodiment of the portable snowboard 601 shown in FIG. 6A. The support pins 602a and 602b of the non-retractable support pin assembly 602 are positioned within the first planar section 102 and the second planar section 103, for example, within cavities 602c and 602d defined within the first planar section 102 and the second planar section 103, respectively. The non-retractable support pin assembly 602 is positioned between the first planar section 102 and the second planar section 103 in an open position of the portable snowboard 601 and is configured to prevent the relative folding between the first planar section 102 and the second planar section 103 as exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 6A. The support pins 602a and 602b extend within the cavities 602c and 602d of the first planar section 102 and the second planar section 103.
Also shown in FIG. 6B is the conglomerate set 114 of communication accessories positioned in the in-built compartments 107 and 108 of the first planar section 102 and the second planar section 103, respectively. The conglomerate set 114 of communication accessories establish real-time communication between the user and a base station 1001 exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 10, operated by workers, for example, rescue personnel, tracking assistants, etc. The conglomerate set 114 of communication accessories record and transmit information regarding a snowboarding session using the portable snowboard 601 to the base station 1001. In an embodiment, the conglomerate set 114 of communication accessories comprises a crash notification system 118, a battery-free transponder 119, and a personal locator beacon 120 as disclosed in the description of FIG. 10.
FIG. 6C exemplarily illustrates a bottom elevation, assembled view of the sixth embodiment of the portable snowboard 601 shown in FIG. 6A. FIG. 6C shows bases 102d and 103d of the first planar section 102 and the second planar section 103 of the portable snowboard 601, respectively, that contact a ground surface or a terrain of a snowboarding destination. The first planar section 102 is engaged with the second planar section 103 at the interconnecting joint 104 by detachably fastening the first member 104a of the first planar section 102 to the second member 104b of the second planar section 103 using the screws 104c exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 6B, such that a seamless and smooth surface, without any gaps, is created on an upper surface of the portable snowboard 601 exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 6A and on a base of the portable snowboard 601 exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 6B. Also shown in FIG. 6C are the cavities 602c and 602d of the first planar section 102 and the second planar section 103, respectively, accommodating the support pins 602a and 602b of the non-retractable support pin assembly 602.
FIG. 7A exemplarily illustrates a top perspective, assembled view of a seventh embodiment of the portable snowboard 701 with detachable parts, comprising straps 702, 703, and 704. A user may unlock the lockable hinge 502 and fold the portable snowboard 701 to carry the portable snowboard 701 from one place to another. In an embodiment, two straps 702 and 703 are attached proximal to opposing sides 103g and 103f of the second planar section 103 of the portable snowboard 701, respectively, as exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 7A. The straps 702 and 703 allow the user to wear the folded portable snowboard 701 as a backpack and carry the folded portable snowboard 701 as exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 7B. In an embodiment, another strap 704 is attached to the first planar section 102 as exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 7A. The strap 704 holds the first planar section 102 and the second planar section 103 of the portable snowboard 701 in position when folded as exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 7B. The straps 702 and 703 are configured similar to bag straps, duffel straps, etc. The straps 702, 703, and 704 are made of strong durable materials, for example, nylon, a snow-proof material, a waterproof material, etc.
FIG. 7B exemplarily illustrates a top perspective, assembled view of the seventh embodiment of the portable snowboard 701 shown in FIG. 7A, showing the first planar section 102 and the second planar section 103 folded and bound by one of the straps, for example, 704. In an embodiment, the lockable hinge 502 allows the first planar section 102 to be folded below the second planar section 103 as exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 7B. A user may then wrap the strap 704 from the first planar section 102 over the second planar section 103 to hold the first planar section 102 and the second planar section 103 together for carriage and transportation. The user may then wear the straps 702 and 703 extending from the second planar section 103 over his or her shoulders to carry the folded, portable snowboard 701 as a backpack. In an embodiment, in the folded condition of the portable snowboard 701, the tension ropes 504a and 504b of the cross-wired tension rope assembly 504 are detached from their cross-wired position exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 7A, and anchored in a linear position as exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 7B. FIG. 7B exemplarily illustrates the tension rope 504b anchored by the poles 503 in a linear position.
In another embodiment, the portable snowboard 701 further comprises a self-locking system (not shown) that allows the first planar section 102 and the second planar section 103 to be and stay locked in any desired position, when folded. The portable snowboard 701 can be set in any desired position and be locked upright/reversible and carried as a cross bag.
FIG. 8 exemplarily illustrates a top perspective, disassembled view of an eighth embodiment of the portable snowboard 801 with detachable parts, showing an embodiment for engaging the first planar section 102 with the second planar section 103. In this embodiment, the portable snowboard 801 further comprises a magnetic fastener 802 configured to magnetically engage the first planar section 102 with the second planar section 103. In an embodiment, the magnetic fastener 802 comprises a magnetic strip 802a positioned at a front portion of the second member 104b of the interconnecting joint 104 exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 4A, and a metal strip 802b positioned at a front portion of the first member 104a of the interconnecting joint 104. In an embodiment (not shown), the metal strip 802b is positioned at the front portion of the second member 104b of the interconnecting joint 104 and the magnetic strip 802a is positioned at the front portion of the first member 104a of the interconnecting joint 104. When the second member 104b is brought in close proximity to the first member 104a, the magnetic strip 802a magnetically attracts and locks into the metal strip 802b, thereby engaging the first planar section 102 with the second planar section 103. In another embodiment (not shown), a strong magnetic plate is attached to a bottom surface of the second member 104b of the interconnecting joint 104 and a corresponding metal plate is attached to a top surface of the first member 104a. In this embodiment, when the second member 104b is positioned over the first member 104a, the strong magnetic plate of the second member 104b magnetically attracts and engages with the metal plate of the first member 104a, thereby engaging the first planar section 102 with the second planar section 103. In an embodiment, the first planar section 102 is further fastened to the second planar section 103 using the screws 104c.
In an embodiment, the portable snowboard 801 further comprises a foot horn 803 positioned at an accessible location on the first planar section 102 and/or the second planar section 103. For example, the foot horn 803 is positioned below the rear binding 106 as exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 8. The foot horn 803 is configured to generate a loud sound as a warning or a signal. During a snowboarding session, a user can press the foot horn 803 to warn others of the user's approach or presence, or to call attention.
FIG. 9 exemplarily illustrates a top perspective, assembled view of a ninth embodiment of the portable snowboard 901 with detachable parts, comprising detachable straps 902 and 904. A user may unlock the lockable hinge 502 and fold the portable snowboard 901 to carry the portable snowboard 901 from one place to another. In an embodiment, strap 902 is detachably attached proximal to side of the second planar section 103 of the portable snowboard 901 as exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 9. The strap 902, for example, is a shoulder strap/cross bag strap about 50 inches, allow the user to wear the folded portable snowboard 901 as a shoulder bag/crossbody bag and carry the folded portable snowboard 901. The strap 902 comprise a magnetic fastener 903 configured to magnetically attach the strap 902 and the portable snowboard 901. In an embodiment, the magnetic fastener 903 comprises a magnetic strip 903a positioned at a front portion of the strap 902 exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 9, and a metal strip 903b positioned at the side of the second planar section 103 of the portable snowboard 901 as exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 9. In an embodiment (not shown), the metal strip 903b is positioned at the front portion of the strap 902 and the magnetic strip 903a is positioned at side of the second planar section 103 of the portable snowboard 901. When the strap 902 is brought in close proximity to the second planar section 103, the magnetic strip 903a magnetically attracts and locks into the metal strip 903b, thereby engaging the strap 902 with the second planar section 103. In another embodiment, fasteners, for example, snap hooks, clasps, squeeze buckle, screw connectors, etc., are used to detachably attach the straps 902 and 904 to the portable snowboard 901.
The strap 904 holds the first planar section 102 and the second planar section 103 of the portable snowboard 901 in position when folded. The strap 904 comprise a magnetic fastener 905 configured to magnetically attach the strap 904 and the portable snowboard 901. In an embodiment, the magnetic fastener 905 comprises a magnetic strip 905a positioned at a front portion of the strap 904 exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 9, and a metal strip 905b positioned at the top of the first planar section 102 of the portable snowboard 901 as exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 9. In an embodiment (not shown), the metal strip 905b is positioned at the front portion of the strap 904 and the magnetic strip 905a is positioned at top of the first planar section 102 of the portable snowboard 901. When the strap 904 is brought in close proximity to the first planar section 102, the magnetic strip 905a magnetically attracts and locks into the metal strip 905b, thereby engaging the strap 904 with the first planar section 102. The straps 902 and 904 are configured similar to bag straps, duffel straps, etc. The straps 902 and 904 are made of strong durable materials, for example, nylon, a snow-proof material, a waterproof material, etc.
In an embodiment, the lockable hinge 502 allows the first planar section 102 to be folded below the second planar section 103. A user may then wrap the strap 904 from the first planar section 102 over the second planar section 103 to hold the first planar section 102 and the second planar section 103 together for carriage and transportation. The user may then wear the strap 902 extending from the second planar section 103 over his or her shoulders to carry the folded, portable snowboard 901 as a shoulder bag/crossbody bag. In another embodiment, the portable snowboard 901 further comprises a self-locking system (not shown) that allows the first planar section 102 and the second planar section 103 to be and stay locked in any desired position, when folded. The portable snowboard 901 can be set in any desired position and be locked upright/reversible and carried as a cross bag.
FIG. 10 exemplarily illustrates a block diagram of an exemplary implementation of a system 1000 comprising a base station 1001 configured to operably communicate with the conglomerate set 114 of communication accessories of the portable snowboard 401/601/801. The portable snowboard 401/601/801 comprises the microcontroller 117, at least one processor 1007, and the conglomerate set 114 of communication accessories positioned in one or more of the built-in compartments 107 and 108 exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 4B-4C, FIG. 6B, and FIG. 8. The processor 1007 controls and processes signals from the conglomerate set 114 of communication accessories of the portable snowboard 401/601/801. The base station 1001 comprises at least one processor 1002 and modules 1003, 1004, and 1005 as disclosed below. The processor 1002 controls and processes instructions defined by the modules 1003, 1004, and 1005 of the base station 1001. The base station 1001 communicates with one or more of the conglomerate set 114 of communication accessories via a communication network 1006. The communication network 1006 is, for example, a satellite communication network, satellite internet, a network that implements Wi-Fi® of Wi-Fi Alliance Corporation, an ultra-wideband (UWB) communication network, a mobile telecommunication network such as a global system for mobile (GSM) communications network, a code division multiple access (CDMA) network, a third generation (3G) mobile communication network, a fourth generation (4G) mobile communication network, a fifth generation (5G) mobile communication network, a long-term evolution (LTE) mobile communication network, etc.
In an embodiment, the conglomerate set 114 of communication accessories comprises a crash notification system 118 controlled by the processor 1007. The crash notification system 118 comprises one or more sensors, for example, sensors 118a and 118b, positioned inside the in-built compartments 107 and 108 of the first planar section 102 and the second planar section 103, respectively, as exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 4B-4C, FIG. 6B, and FIG. 8. The sensors 118a and 118b are configured to provide information regarding crash points that are spread out over terrains where the snowboarding session is performed. The crash notification system 118 is further configured to transmit the information regarding the crash points to a crash information receiver module 1003 of the base station 1001 via the communication network 1006. The processor 1002 controls the crash information receiver module 1003 to generate reports to management personnel who manage snowboarding events. The generated reports provide information about the user to rescue personnel during a rescue operation, after a crash is determined.
In an example embodiment, the crash notification system 118 is in operable communication with the microcontroller 117, a Global Positioning System (GPS) module (not shown), or a Global System for Mobile (GSM) communications module (not shown). The sensors 118a and 118b are, for example, a crash sensor comprising a vibration sensor, and an accelerometer sensor. In an embodiment, a Wi-Fi® module is provided within the crash notification system 118 to communicate with the base station 1001. If the portable snowboard 401/601/801 crashes, the crash notification system 118 detects the crash using the sensors 118a and 118b, that is, the crash sensor and the accelerometer sensor, respectively. The GPS module provides geographic coordinates of the crash location. The crash notification system 118 transmits crash location data and crash damage data to the base station 1001, for example, over a GSM network or using the WiFi® module.
In another embodiment, the conglomerate set 114 of communication accessories comprises a battery-free transponder 119 controlled by the processor 1007. The battery-free transponder 119 is positioned inside one or more of the in-built compartments 107 and 108. The battery-free transponder 119 is configured to respond to signals received from a corresponding detector, for example, a transponder receiver module 1004 of the base station 1001, via the communication network 1006, to assist in detecting the portable snowboard 401/601/801 during an accident. The processor 1002 controls the corresponding transponder receiver module 1004 to generate reports regarding condition of the user, for example, physical parameters such as blood pressure, heart rate, body temperature, etc., of the user, and other information comprising, for example, speed, route traversed by the user, condition of the portable snowboard 401/601/801, etc. In another embodiment, the battery-free transponder 119 is fastened on the upper surface 102c or 103c of the portable snowboard 401/601/801 exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 4A, FIG. 6A, and FIG. 8, for example, using an adhesive material such as glue. The battery-free transponder 119 is, for example, the RECCO® battery-free transponder of Recco Invest AB LLC. In an embodiment, a second battery-free transponder (not shown) is also fastened on a user's headgear, for example, the user's helmet, using an adhesive material such as glue. In this embodiment, the transponder receiver module 1004 of the base station 1001 communicates with the second battery-free transponder to detect the user in case of an accident.
In another embodiment, the conglomerate set 114 of communication accessories comprises a personal locator beacon 120 positioned inside one or more of the in-built compartments 107 and 108. The personal locator beacon 120 is configured to transmit information regarding a location of the user using the portable snowboard 401/601/801 to a location receiver module 1005 of the base station 1001 via the communication network 1006, during the snowboarding session. The personal locator beacon 120, also referred to as an emergency locator transmitter, is provided within the portable snowboard 401/601/801 for locating the user in case of an accident.
The portable snowboard disclosed herein is configured to be readily disassembled for transportation of the portable snowboard, and readily reassembled prior to riding the portable snowboard down a snowboarding destination, for example, a hill. The portable snowboard disclosed herein allows secure storage of personal items in the in-built compartments 107 and 108, thereby precluding the loss of such items when the user travels at high speeds down a hill and when the portable snowboard traverses over a bump on a slope of the hill, takes a sharp turn on the slope, collides with an obstruction on the slope, etc. The front lighting system 112 and the rear lighting system 122 of the portable snowboard exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 4A-4C, FIG. 5A, FIGS. 6A-6B, FIG. 7A, and FIG. 8, illuminate and provide a clear view of a landscape where snowboarding is being performed, for example, in low light conditions. The front camera 113 and the rear camera 121 of the portable snowboard exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 4A-4C, FIG. 5A, FIGS. 6A-6B, FIG. 7A, and FIG. 8, allow the user to capture still images and record a video of their snowboarding session, for example, to record traversed areas, to record their progress for training and educational purposes, to map the geography of an area, etc. Moreover, the conglomerate set 114 of communication accessories of the portable snowboard establishes real-time communication between a user and the base station 1001 for indicating a possibility or a probability of a crash, communicating with the base station 1001 regarding progress of the snowboarding session, and providing the user's location, for example, in case of a crash or an avalanche. Furthermore, the anti-folding member 115 exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 4B-4C, FIG. 5A, and FIGS. 6A-6C, prevents accidental folding, bending, and breakage of the portable snowboard.
The foregoing examples and illustrative implementations of various embodiments have been provided merely for the purpose of explanation and are in no way to be construed as limiting of the portable snowboard disclosed herein. While the portable snowboard has been described with reference to various embodiments, illustrative implementations, drawings, and techniques, it is understood that the words, which have been used herein, are words of description and illustration, rather than words of limitation. Furthermore, although the portable snowboard has been described herein with reference to particular means, materials, techniques, implementations, and embodiments, the portable snowboard is not intended to be limited to the particulars disclosed herein; rather, the portable snowboard extends to all functionally equivalent structures, methods and uses, such as are within the scope of the appended claims. It will be understood by those skilled in the art, having the benefit of the teachings of this specification, that the embodiments disclosed herein are capable of modifications and other embodiments may be effected and changes may be made thereto, without departing from the scope and spirit of the embodiments disclosed herein.
Patent Application
20220296985
