Snowboard Assistance Device

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to snowboard attachments. More specifically, the present invention is a training device that allows an instructor or parent to control the speed, edge angle and rotation of a snowboard.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

A snowboard assistance trainer device is a specialized tool designed to help snowboarders, especially beginners, improve their skills and confidence on the slopes. These devices are often used in snowboard schools, training facilities, and by individual riders looking to enhance their abilities. Typically, a snowboard assistance trainer device consists of a sturdy frame or platform with bindings that securely hold the snowboard in place. The device may also include adjustable straps or restraints to ensure the rider's safety and stability while practicing.

One common type of snowboard assistance trainer device is a balance bar or rail, which extends horizontally from the frame and provides riders with a stable surface to hold onto while practicing balance and maneuvering techniques. This allows beginners to get a feel for the snowboard's movements without the fear of falling. Some snowboard assistance trainer devices also incorporate features such as adjustable inclines or ramps, allowing riders to practice riding downhill and performing turns in a controlled environment. This can help build confidence and muscle memory before tackling more challenging terrain on the mountain. However, these devices do not allow for a user to control another individual's snowboard position and speed. The present invention provides a tool for snowboarders of all skill levels, providing a safe and supportive environment for learning and practicing essential techniques. By offering stability, guidance, and feedback, these devices can help riders improve their skills and progress more quickly on the slopes.

An objective of the present invention is to provide users with a device that secures to a child's snowboard, to help control the attached snowboard's speed, edge angle and rotation. The present invention intends to minimize the chance of the child falling while learning proper snowboarding technique. To accomplish this objective, a preferred embodiment of the present invention comprises a base plate, a handle receiver, a handle, and a locking system. Further, the handle allows for a user to hold and secure the present invention while attached to a snowboard. The locking system helps secure the handle to the handle receiver during use. Thus, the present invention is a device that secures to the rear bindings of an external snowboard and allows a user to control the speed, edge angle and position of the attached external snowboard.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is a training device that allows the user (trailing rider) to easily push or tilt the attached snowboard. The present invention seeks to provide users with a device that allows a user to teach a child proper snowboarding technique in a safe manner. To accomplish this objective, the present invention comprises a base plate that secures to the rear bindings of a snowboard. A handle receiver mounts to the base plate and receives the handle. Additionally, the handle is detachable for easy transportation and allows the user to easily control the device. A ratchet strap secures the handle to the handle receiver. Thus, the present invention is a device that secures to the rear bindings of an external snowboard and allows the user to control the speed, edge angle and position of the attached snowboard.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a top-front-right perspective view of the present invention, shown attached to a snowboard.

FIG. 2 is a top-rear-left perspective view of the present invention, shown attached to a snowboard.

FIG. 3 is a top-front-right perspective view of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a bottom-rear-left perspective view of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a front elevational view of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a rear elevational view of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a right-side elevational view of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a top plan view of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a bottom plan view of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a magnified view taken from FIG. 7, in accordance with a first embodiment.

FIG. 11 is a magnified view taken from FIG. 7, in accordance with a second embodiment.

DETAIL DESCRIPTIONS OF THE INVENTION

All illustrations of the drawings are for the purpose of describing selected versions of the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

In reference to FIGS. 1-11, the present invention is a training device 1 for snowboard users. An objective of the present invention is to provide the user with a training device that is easily transportable and detachable. The training device 1 mounts to the rear bindings 9 of a snowboard SB. While in motion, the user (trailing rider) twists, pushes, and pulls on the handle 4 of the training device to control the speed, edge angle, and rotation of the snowboard. When not in use, the handle 4 detaches from the device. This allows the user to ride on a chairlift with the training device 1 in a stowed configuration.

To accomplish the objectives, the present invention comprises a base plate 2, a handle receiver 3, a handle 4, and a locking system 5. The base plate 2 functions as the primary structural component of the present invention, as the remaining components of the present invention are configured upon the base plate 2. The base plate 2 is a rigid structure made of metal or hard plastic and is preferably rectangular in shape. As best seen in FIGS. 8-10, the base plate 2 comprises a top surface 21, a bottom surface 22, a forward section 23, and an aft section 24. The bottom surface 22 of the base plate is seated flush with the top of the snowboard SB. The forward section 23 of the base plate is secured to the rear bindings 9 of the snowboard SB. The handle receiver 3 is positioned within the aft section 24 of the base plate, extending outward from the top surface 21 at a predefined angle α. The handle 4 is detachably connected to the handle receiver 3, and the locking system 5 is configured to secure the handle 4 to the handle receiver 3. When preparing for transport, the user can quickly detach the handle 4 from the handle receiver 3 by disengaging the locking system 5.

In a preferred embodiment, the same OEM fasteners used to connect the rear bindings 9 to the snowboard SB are also utilized to detachably connect the base plate 2 to the snowboard. In this embodiment, as seen in FIG. 3, the base plate 2 further comprises a plurality of binding holes 25. The plurality of binding holes 25 are disposed along the forward section 23 of the base plate 2. The forward section 23 is positioned in between the top of the snowboard SB and the bottom of the rear bindings 9. A plurality of first fasteners 91 are inserted through the rear bindings 9, through the corresponding binding holes 25 of the base plate, and fastened into the snowboard SB. The exact quantity and positioning of the binding holes 25 on the base plate are delineated by the mounting provisions of the rear bindings 9.

The handle receiver 3 comprises a receiver body 31 and a receiver opening 32. As seen in FIG. 10, the receiver body 31 extends upward and away from the base plate 2 at an obtuse angle α, wherein the obtuse angle α is delineated between the top surface 21 of the base plate 2 and the front of the receiver body 31. The receiver opening 32 traverses axially inward from the top of the receiver body 31. The receiver opening 32 is preferably in the form of a hexagonal-shaped counterbore. The hexagonal shape prevents the handle 4 from rotating during use. It is understood that the angle α of the receiver body is not limited to being an obtuse angle and can be of any suitable angle based on design, user, and/or manufacturing requirements. Likewise, the profile shape of the receiver opening 32 is not limited to hexagonal and can take the form of any suitable shape based on design, user, and or manufacturing requirements.

In the preferred embodiment, the handle receiver 3 further comprises a plurality of brace supports 33. The plurality of brace supports 33 provide structural stability to help strengthen the connection between the base plate 2 and the handle receiver 3. During use, the plurality of brace supports 33 absorb the high stress and high torque loads exerted from the handle 4. Each of the plurality of brace supports 33 are perimetrically connected along the outer surface of the receiver body 31, extending downward to the top surface 21 of the base plate 2. The plurality of brace supports 33 comprises a first side brace 34, a second side brace 35, and an aft brace 36. As best seen in FIGS. 5-6, the first and second side braces 34,35 are positioned on opposite sides of the handle receiver 3, each oriented perpendicular with the aft brace 36. The aft brace 36 is positioned along the aft end 26 of the base plate 2. In this arrangement, the aft brace 36 provides vertical support while the first and second side braces 34,35 provide lateral support.

The handle 4 comprises a handle stem 41 and a handle grip 42. The handle stem 41 is an elongated member, preferably in the form of a cylindrical tube. However, the shape of the handle stem 41 is not limited to being cylindrical and can take the form of any suitable shape based on design, user, and/or manufacturing requirements. The handle stem 41 comprises a connector end 40 and a distal end 49. As seen in FIG. 10, the connector end 40 is adapted to slidably engage with the receiver opening 32. Stated another way, the connector end 40 is shaped to fit within the receiver opening 32. The distal end 49 of the handle stem 41 is terminally connected to the handle grip 42. In the preferred embodiment, as seen in FIG. 8, the handle grip 42 is configured as a two-handed grip comprising a pair of side handles 42a, 42b and a center handle 42c. In this arrangement, the center handle 42c allows the user to push the snowboard forward or pull the snowboard back with one hand. The pair of side handles 42a, 42b allow the user to provide torque and tilt the snowboard in either direction using two hands.

In the preferred embodiment, the locking system 5 is in the form of a ratchet strap 5a. As seen in FIG. 10, the ratchet strap 5a is easily accessible, allowing the user to quickly engage and disengage the ratchet strap 5a without using any external tools. The ratchet strap 5a further comprises a ratchet 51, a rubber strap 52, and a second fastener 53. The ratchet 51 is mounted along the outer surface of the handle stem 41, positioned above the connector end 40. A first end 52a of the rubber strap 52 is mounted to the handle receiver 3 via the second fastener 53. The second end 52b of the rubber strap 52 is inserted through and operably coupled to the ratchet 51. To unlock and remove the handle 4, the user simply pulls up on the lever of the ratchet 51 and slides the handle 4 out of the handle receiver 3.

In an alternative embodiment, the locking system 5 is in the form of a lock bolt 5b. As seen in FIG. 11, a plurality of apertures 54 traverse laterally through the receiver body 31 and through the connector end 40. To secure the handle 4 in place, the user inserts the connector end 40 into the receiver opening 32 such that the apertures 54 on the connector end 40 are aligned with the apertures 54 on the receiver body 31 to form a through hole. Then, the user inserts the lock bolt 5b through the plurality of apertures 54, thereby securing the handle 4 in place. To unlock and remove the handle 4, the user follows the same steps in reverse.

Although the invention has been explained in relation to its preferred embodiment, it is to be understood that many other possible modifications and variations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.