STAND-UP PADDLE BOARD

Disclosed is a stand-up paddle board comprising an inflatable body having a top face, an opposing bottom face, and a periphery extending between the top face and the bottom face. The inflatable body includes dimensions that enable the stand-up paddle board to track straight and turn responsively in flat water. The stand-up paddle board also comprises a detachable and adjustable securing arrangement provided to the top face of the inflatable body and configured to secure cargo to the top face.

Skip to: Description  ·  Claims  · Patent History  ·  Patent History
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to a sailing device for a body of water, and more particularly, to a stand-up paddle board.

BACKGROUND

A water sport, such as stand-up paddle boarding (SUP), has gained decent popularity in recent time. Typically, the sport is performed using a large, buoyant board (i.e. a stand-up paddle board) having a flat upper surface on which an individual (or paddler) stands, and the board is propelled with help of a long paddle used by the paddler. Conventionally, such stand-up paddle boards were made of hard boards and generally included a large size (i.e. dimensions of few meters). Due to the large size, such stand-up paddle boards were associated with the problem of transportations from one place to another. Also, individuals had problem in manually handling such large stand-up paddle boards either alone or jointly.

Typically, the above problems of the conventional (hard board) stand-up paddle board were addressed with the help of an inflatable stand-up paddle boards. However, inflatable stand-up paddle boards are subjected to various problems, for example, such inflatable boards are unstable and not as efficient as the hard boards, particularly, in terms of manoeuvring the inflatable boards on flat water. For example, while using (or sailing with) such inflatable board, it is essential to use a J-stroke in order to get a correct sailing direction. This makes the stand-up paddle boarding (using inflatable board) more challenging for the beginners or learners. Additionally, such inflatable stand-up paddle boards are also associated with the problem of manual handling, for example carrying the inflatable boards in its inflated state from one place to another. Moreover, the conventional inflatable stand-up paddle boards are merely used for sailing purpose, and therefore include various possibilities for multipurpose improvements.

Therefore, in light of the foregoing discussion, there exists a need to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks of the conventional inflatable stand-up paddle boards

SUMMARY

The present disclosure seeks to provide a stand-up paddle board.

The present disclosure also seeks to provide a stand-up paddle board kit.

The present disclosure also seeks to provide a method for using a stand-up paddle board kit.

In one aspect, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides stand-up paddle board. The stand-up paddle board comprises

an inflatable body having a top face, an opposing bottom face, and a periphery extending between the top face and the bottom face, the inflatable body having dimensions enabling the stand-up paddle board to track straight and turn responsively in flat water; and

a detachable and adjustable securing arrangement provided to the top face of the inflatable body and configured to secure cargo to the top face.

Optionally, the dimensions of the inflatable body include a length between ca. 3 and ca 5 meters and a width between ca 0.4 and ca 1.60 meters.

Optionally, the detachable and adjustable securing arrangement further comprises:

a plurality of buckles detachably coupled to a front portion of the top face; and

a cord adjustably coupled to each of the buckles for forming a continuous-loop to secure cargo to the top face.

Optionally, the stand-up paddle board further comprises an adhesive patch arranged on a front portion of the top face and configured to receive a mounting plate thereon.

Optionally, the stand-up paddle board further comprises a tube arranged at a rear portion of the inflatable body, the tube is configured to receive an axle there-through.

Optionally, the stand-up paddle board further comprises, on the top face, a grip-surface extending from an intermediate portion of the inflatable body to a rear portion of the inflatable body.

Optionally, the stand-up paddle board further comprises a fill valve arranged on the top face at a rear portion of the inflatable body.

Optionally, the stand-up paddle board further comprises a plurality of loops coupled to the top face near the periphery and at a rear portion of the inflatable body.

Optionally, the stand-up paddle board further comprises a plurality of straps coupled to the top face centrally and at the periphery.

More optionally, the stand-up paddle board further comprises a towing loop provided to the bottom face at a front portion of the inflatable body.

Optionally, the stand-up paddle board further comprises at least one fin extending from the bottom face at a rear portion of the inflatable body.

Optionally, the stand-up paddle board further comprises at least one visual indicator arranged on at least the top face and the periphery.

More optionally, the at least one visual indicator comprises a light source or a glow light film.

Alternatively, the detachable and adjustable securing arrangement further comprises:

a plurality of buckles detachably coupled to a front portion of the top face;

a plurality of belts adjustably coupled to the plurality of buckles; and

a cargo tray detachably coupled to the front portion of the top face by the plurality of buckles and belts, wherein the cargo tray is configured to form an open top container for receiving cargo therein.

In another aspect, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a stand-up paddle board kit. The stand-up paddle board kit comprises

a stand-up paddle board including

    • an inflatable body having a top face, an opposing bottom face, and a periphery extending between the top face and the bottom face, the inflatable body having dimensions enabling the stand-up paddle board to track straight and turn responsively in flat water, and
    • a detachable and adjustable securing arrangement provided to the top face of the inflatable body and configured to secure cargo to the top face; and

a carry bag mounted with a towing wheel arrangement and configured to accommodate the stand-up paddle board in a deflated state.

In yet another aspect, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a method for using the stand-up paddle board kit. The method comprises:

withdrawing a deflated inflatable stand-up paddle board from a carry bag;

spreading the deflated inflatable stand-up paddle board out on a generally level surface such that a fill valve of the inflatable stand-up paddle board is freely accessible;

removing a lid from the fill valve;

pushing down on a lock of the fill valve;

twisting an air hose onto the fill valve to provide an air-tight coupling between the air hose and the fill valve;

providing air through the air hose and fill valve to an interior of the inflatable stand-up paddle board to inflate the stand-up paddle board to an internal pressure of between 69 and 150 kPa;

removing the air hose from the fill valve;

twisting the valve lock closed to seal the fill valve;

replacing the fill valve lid;

placing the inflated inflatable stand-up paddle board on a surface of a body of water;

stepping onto a top face of the inflated inflatable stand-up paddle board; and

propelling and steering the inflatable stand-up paddle board on the surface of the body of water.

Optionally, the method further comprises:

stepping off of the top face of the inflated inflatable stand-up paddle board;

removing the inflatable stand-up paddle board from the surface of the body of water;

removing the lid from the fill valve;

twisting the valve lock open to permit air to escape through the fill valve until the inflatable stand-up paddle board has been sufficiently deflated to fit into the carry bag;

replacing the lid on the fill valve; and

replacing the deflated inflatable stand-up paddle board in the carry bag.

Embodiments of the present disclosure substantially eliminate or at least partially address the aforementioned problems in the background, and provides a stand-up paddle board, a stand-up paddle board kit and a method for using the stand-up paddle board kit. The stand-up paddle board is configured to have such dimensions (for example a length of about 4 meters), which provides the stand-up paddle board with improved manoeuvrability and speed while sailing. Further, the inflatable stand-up paddle board of the present disclosure is easy to handle and easily transportable. For example, the presence of the plurality of straps on the stand-up paddle board enables easy handling of the inflatable board, for example, carrying the inflatable board manually from one place to another. Also, the stand-up paddle board can be easily towed behind a vehicle using a towing loop. Moreover, the stand-up paddle board of the present disclosure can be used for other purposes, apart from sailing, such as carrying cargo on the stand-up paddle board. Specifically, the detachable and adjustable securing arrangement of the stand-up paddle board enables in securing the cargo (and other valuable goods), which could be carried along with the sail. Additionally, the stand-up paddle board is provided with the adhesive patch for supporting an imaging device for the purpose of recording videos while sailing.

Additional aspects, advantages, features and objects of the present disclosure would be made apparent from the drawings and the detailed description of the illustrative embodiments construed in conjunction with the appended claims that follow.

It will be appreciated that features of the present disclosure are susceptible to being combined in various combinations without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The summary above, as well as the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments, is better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the present disclosure, exemplary constructions of the disclosure are shown in the drawings. However, the present disclosure is not limited to specific methods and instrumentalities disclosed herein. Moreover, those skilled in the art will understand that the drawings are not to scale. Wherever possible, like elements have been indicated by identical numbers.

Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the following diagrams wherein:

FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a stand-up paddle board kit, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a stand-up paddle board, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of a portion of a detachable and adjustable securing arrangement of the stand-up paddle board, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIGS. 4A-B are perspective view and cross-sectional view, respectively, of an adhesive patch of the stand-up paddle board, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIGS. 5 and 6 are top and bottom views of the stand-up paddle board, respectively, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIGS. 7 and 8 are side and front views of the stand-up paddle board, respectively, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the stand-up paddle board supporting a cargo thereon using a detachable and adjustable securing arrangement thereof, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the stand-up paddle board with a detachable and adjustable securing arrangement having an open top container, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

FIGS. 11A-B is a method for using a stand-up paddle board kit, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

In the accompanying drawings, an underlined number is employed to represent an item over which the underlined number is positioned or an item to which the underlined number is adjacent. A non-underlined number relates to an item identified by a line linking the non-underlined number to the item. When a number is non-underlined and accompanied by an associated arrow, the non-underlined number is used to identify a general item at which the arrow is pointing.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following detailed description illustrates embodiments of the present disclosure and ways in which they can be implemented. Although some modes of carrying out the present disclosure have been disclosed, those skilled in the art would recognize that other embodiments for carrying out or practicing the present disclosure are also possible.

It should be noted that the terms “first”, “second”, and the like, herein do not denote any order, quantity, or importance, but rather are used to distinguish one element from another. Further, the terms “a” and “an” herein do not denote a limitation of quantity, but rather denote the presence of at least one of the referenced item.

Referring now to the drawings, particularly by their reference numbers, FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a stand-up paddle board kit 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The stand-up paddle board kit 100 includes a stand-up paddle board 110 and a carry bag 120 for the stand-up paddle board 110. As shown, the stand-up paddle board 110 is in a folded state, i.e. the stand-up paddle board 110 is rolled in a deflated state to form a cylinder. The stand-up paddle board 110 may be allowed to attain the folded state after and prior to the use thereof, and may be accommodated in the carry bag 120. Specifically, the stand-up paddle board 110 may be accommodated in the carry bag 120 while carrying (or transporting) the stand-up paddle board 110 (in the deflated state) from one place to another, for example from individual's house to a body of water.

The carry bag 120 is mounted with a towing wheel arrangement 122, which help in towing the carry bag 120 (with the stand-up paddle board 110 accommodated therein) from one place to another. In an embodiment, the stand-up paddle board 110 in the deflated and folded state may include a weight of about 12 to 17 kilograms, and most likely about 14 kg. Ideally the lower weight of the stand-up board 110 and carry bag 120 the better. In such instance, the towing wheel arrangement 122 may enable in comfortably towing the carry bag 120 from one place to another. Additionally, the carry bag 120 may include shoulder straps, such a shoulder strap 124, for allowing the carry bag 120 (with the stand-up paddle board 110 accommodated therein) to be carried by an individual at his/her shoulders and back from one place to another.

Referring now to FIG. 2, illustrated is a perspective view of the stand-up paddle board 110 (of FIG. 1), in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Specifically, the stand-up paddle board 110 is shown in an inflated (and unfolded) state. The stand-up paddle board 110 includes an inflatable body 202 having a top face 204, an opposing bottom face 206 (best shown in FIG. 6), and a periphery 208 (best shown in FIG. 7) extending between the top face 204 and the bottom face 206. The inflatable body 202 may be made of any of a variety of inflatable materials including but not limited to a thermally or ultrasonically bonded plastic fabric, rubberized fabric or a fabric mix of plastic and rubber. As shown, the inflatable body 202 is configured to have a shape of a conventional stand-up paddle board, for example the inflatable body 202 includes a performance nose shape and a square tail shape. However, the inflatable body 202 may be configured to have other shapes for example nose shape, such as retro, fatboy or round, and tail shape, such as fish, round, pin, swallow and the like.

The inflatable body 202 of the present disclosure includes dimensions that enable the stand-up paddle board 110 to track straight and turn responsively in flat water. Specifically, the inflatable body 202 is configured to have a length and a width that allows the stand-up paddle board 110 to efficiently manoeuvre (i.e. sail linearly and make turns) when paddled through the flat water. In an example, the inflatable body 202 is configured to have a substantial length and width, such a length of between ca 3 to ca 5 meters, preferably a length of between ca 3.5 to 4.5 meters, and most preferably ca 4 meters in length, and a width between ca 0.4 to 1.6 meters, more preferably 0.6 to 1.2 meters and most preferably ca 0.8 meters, which provide efficient transportation and manoeuvring properties of the stand-up paddle board 110. In another embodiment the ratio between the length:width ranges from ca 10:1 down to ca 3:1, and most preferably with a length:width ratio of ca 5:1. When the stand-up paddle board 110 has a length:width ratio of 5:1, such as ca 4 meters by ca 0.8 meters, the tracking of paddling keeps the line efficiently allowing the paddling to take place on mostly one side without straying to the other side.

The stand-up paddle board 110 also includes a detachable and adjustable securing arrangement 210 provided to the top face 204 of the inflatable body 202 configured to secure cargo (not shown in FIG. 2) to the top face 204. In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2, the securing arrangement 210 includes a plurality of buckles 212 detachably coupled to a front portion 214 of the top face 204, and a cord 216 adjustably coupled to each of the buckles 212 for forming a continuous-loop to secure the cargo (not shown) to the front portion 214 of the top face 204. For example, the plurality of buckles 212 may be used to secure and attach the carry bag 120 to the top face 204 of the stand-up paddle board 110. Optionally, the cord 216 may be made of a reflective material, for example the cord 216 may be a reflective bungle cord, such that the cord 216 may also be visible in poor light conditions. Further, a whistle (not shown) or any similar sound-producing device may also be attached to the cord 216. In an embodiment, a reflective webbing (not shown) may be adjustably coupled to each of the buckles 212.

Referring now to FIG. 3, illustrated is an enlarged view of a portion of the detachable and adjustable securing arrangement 210, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, a buckle 212 is anchored (for example, glued or stitched) to the front portion 214 of the top face 204. For example, the buckle 212 includes a female component 302, which is anchored to the front portion 214 of the top face 204 using an anchoring loop 304. The buckle 212 also includes a male component 310 detachably coupled to the female component 302. Further, the male component 310 is also coupled to an anchoring loop 312. Similarly, other buckles, such as the buckles 212 of FIG. 2, are arranged on the front portion 214 of the top face 204. Further, the cord 216 is received through the anchoring loops, such as the anchoring loop 312, coupled to the male components, such as the male component 310, of the buckles 212. The cord 216 may be made of a substantial hard and elastic material, such as plastic, rubber or any combination thereof, which allows the cord 216 to adjustably secure the cargo to the front portion 214 of the top face 204. Specifically, the cord 216 passing through the anchoring loop 312 forms a continuous-loop to secure the cargo to the front portion 214 of the top face 204, which is further explained in greater detail in conjunction with subsequent figures.

Referring back to FIG. 2, the stand-up paddle board 110 further includes an adhesive patch 220 arranged on the front portion 214 of the top face 204. In an example, the adhesive patch 220 may be anchored, such as glued or stitched, to the front portion 214 of the top face 204. Further, the adhesive patch 220 is configured to receive a mounting plate therein, which is explained in conjunction with FIG. 4A-B. Referring now to FIGS. 4A-B, illustrated are perspective view and cross-sectional view, respectively, of the adhesive patch 220, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, an adhesive patch 220 includes a cavity 402 adapted to receive a mounting plate 404 therein. The mounting plate 404 may be a flat plate like structure having a good adhering quality, such as to adhere to a double sided foam tape or a cradle type mounting means for supporting an imaging device, such as a digital camera (ex. GoPro™ or similar), thereon for shooting video, or other useful device like a light or mobile device for use as a speaker. Additionally, the mounting plate 404 may be used for supporting other devices, such as mobile phone or an audio device, thereon.

Referring back to FIG. 2, the stand-up paddle board 110 further includes a tube 230 arranged at a rear portion 232 of the inflatable body 202. The tube 230 is configured to receive an axle (not shown) there-through. Specifically, the tube 230 is configured to receive the axle for supporting wheels (not shown) at both ends thereof. The wheels accordingly enable comfortably towing the stand-up paddle board 110 (in the inflated state), when attached to a back of a drive source, such as a cycle, a motorcycle, a car or even a pedestrian user. In this embodiment the axle extends about ca 5 cm to ca 10 cm past the board width allowing for supporting wheels to be secured without rubbing against the inflated stand-up paddle board 110. The wheels are at least ca 30 cm and preferably ca 50 cm in diameter and have a snap on fitting to the axle. The wheels should be large enough for the transportation of the stand-up paddle board 110 without a fine 270 or back of stand-up paddle board 110 touching the ground.

The stand-up paddle board 110 further includes, on the top face 204, a grip-surface 240 extending from an intermediate portion 242 of the inflatable body 202 to the rear portion 232 of the inflatable body 202. The grip-surface 240 is an uneven (or rough) surface made of any suitable soft material, such that an individual while sailing (or surfing) can have a good balance due to proper (or improved) grip provided by the grip-surface 240 over the stand-up paddle board 110.

As shown in FIG. 2, the stand-up paddle board 110 also includes a fill valve 250 arranged on the top face 204 at the rear portion 232 of the inflatable body 202. The fill valve 250 enables in filling air into the inflatable body 202. In an embodiment, the fill valve 250 may be equipped with a lid and a lock (not shown), such that the lid may be removed and the lock may be pushed down (or unlock) while introducing air into the inflatable body 202. Specifically, an air hose (not shown) may be coupled to the fill valve 250 for introducing air into the inflatable body 202 with the help of a pump (for example a portable double action pump). The fill valve 250 is preferably a Leafield type valve to allow for ease of attachment without leakage. For example, the inflatable body 202 may be inflated to have an internal pressure of between ca 69 and ca 150 kPa, more preferably ca 96 to 138 kPa. Most preferably the internal pressure is in about 138 kPa (ca 20 Psi) to give good directional tracking of the stand-up paddle board 110 when paddling. After inflation, the air hose is removed, and the lock and lid are closed to seal the fill valve 250. A pressure relief valve 280 may also be arranged on the top face 204 at the rear portion 232 of the inflatable body 202 to prevent that the pressure within the inflatable body 202 becomes too high, which could lead to breakage of any seals or explosion of the inflatable body 202. The pressure relief valve 280 is preferably a Leafield valve or similar construction. The stand-up paddle board 110 is typically inflated to 15-20 psi, most preferably at ca 17.5 psi, and more preferably the pressure release valve is set to let out air if the internal pressure exceeds ca 20 psi. The stand-up paddle board 110 could also be fitted with a sensor (not shown) that when about to exceed a pre-set internal pressure such as 20 psi an automated pressure release valve 280 is opened partly or fully. It has been experienced that if the stand-up paddle board 110 is left out on in the sun or in a very hot environment the increase in the air pressure could result in it exploding. Especially if the stand-up paddle board 110 is made of a material or colour that captures more heat.

The stand-up paddle board 110 further includes a plurality of loops 260. The loops 260 are coupled to the top face 204 near the periphery 208 and at the rear portion 232 of the inflatable body 202. The stand-up paddle board 110 also includes a plurality of straps (or handles) 262 coupled to the top face 204 centrally and peripherally. As shown, the straps 262 are coupled to the front portion, intermediate portion and rear portion of the top face. In an embodiment, the plurality of straps 262 is made of a reflective material. The stand-up paddle board 110 is also fitted with a tracking device that may be built into or attached to one of the loops 260 allowing the board to be tracked by GPS or even via Satellite for longer expeditions.

The loops 260 and the straps 262 enables in carrying the stand-up paddle board 110 from one place to another. For example, when the stand-up paddle board 110 is in the inflated state, an individual or many may lift the stand-up paddle board 110 by holding the straps 262. In an example, an individual may hold the strap 262 at the front portion 214 and another individual may hold the strap 262 at the rear portion 232 for lifting and carrying the stand-up paddle board 110. Otherwise, an individual may place (or support) the stand-up paddle board 110 at his/her head and hold the straps 262 at the intermediate portion 242 with both hands for carrying the stand-up paddle board 110 from one place to another. Optionally, the strap 262 at the rear portion 232 may be a reflective handle. Further, the straps 262 at the intermediate portion 242 may be reflective rescue handles for assistance of an individual in case of an emergency. Additionally, a carry strap or rope (not shown) may be strategically attached to at least one loop 260 and strap 262 at the front and back of the stand-up paddle board 110 for forming a shoulder strap, which enable an individual to carry the stand-up paddle board 110 at his/her shoulder. As the stand-up paddle board 110 is longer and wider than the typical board the carry strap or rope may also be fitted by three loops 260 placed at the substantially front, middle and back part of the stand-up paddle board 110 so that two or more people can use it as a shoulder strap for carrying. Moreover, the loops 260 and the straps 262 may be used for towing the stand-up paddle board 110 when tied to a back of the driving source or led behind a pedestrian walking do the body of water, such as sea or river. Also, the loops 260 and the straps 262 may be used for tying the stand-up paddle board 110 on top of the driving source, particularly on roof top of cars and pickup trucks. The strap 262 centrally coupled to the top face 204 at the intermediate portion 242 may be a handle with a rubber reinforcement which enables the individual to carry the stand-up paddle board 110 conveniently, and prevents slipping when hands of the individual are wet. In an example, the straps 262 at the front portion 214, are reflective front grab handles and enable the individual to view and grab the straps 262 at the front portion 214 in poor light conditions.

Another feature of the stand-up paddle board 110 is that the loops 260 and/or straps 262 are used to allow it to be lowered down from a height of more than ca 50 cm and possibly up to more than 3 meters. The carry strap or rope is attached at least in two or more loops 260 or straps 262 and more preferably 3 points of contact, substantially at the periphery 208 of the inflatable body 202, allowing the stand-up paddle board 110 to be lowered from a height substantially in a horizontal plane that is parallel with the water below. This method of launching into the water can be used from a larger yacht, in a harbour if impossible to reach down, or even over any fence or boarder that may be located by the water or a river way. Once the stand-up paddle board 110 has been lowered onto the water and is floating, a release mechanism, such as a secondary release rope or even a connector means that allows the carry strap to become a loop running from one end of the carry strap through two or more loops and then back up to the second end of the carry strap is released, is activated or released so that the carry strap can be removed. This can be done before or after the rider has climbed onto the stand-up paddle board 110 using a ladder or by jumping down onto it. The same functionality may also be used to connect multiple stand-up paddle boards 110 side by side next to each other for larger buoyancy or towing them behind each other if travelling in darkness. The carry straps and other attachments on the stand-up paddle board 110 can be affixed or storable in pockets on the top face 204 to allow them to be transported on longer trips as well.

The stand-up paddle board also includes a towing loop 264 (best shown in FIG. 6) provided to the bottom face 206 at a front portion 266 of the inflatable body 202. In an example, the towing loop 264 may be tied to the back of the driving source and the tube 230 (as shown in FIG. 2) may be arranged with the axel and wheels. In such instance, the stand-up paddle board 110 may be comfortably towed in its inflated state for one place to another by the driving source with the help of the towing loop 264 and the wheels.

In an embodiment, the stand-up paddle board 110 may also comprise D-rings (not shown) to secure various objects thereto. In an example, D-rings may be provided at the front portion 214 to attach a marine compass for navigation assistance. Also, b-rings at the rear portion 232 may be provided to attach cargo and/or leash to the stand-up paddle board 110. In another example, cargo anchor points (not shown) may be provided at the 208 to attach cargo to the stand-up paddle board 110. The cargo anchor points are recesses, which may be of hard plastic or metal to allow a secure locking mechanism with the cargo or straps holding the cargo, in the top face 204 placed accordingly to the cargo being transported or most preferably along the edges of the top face 204. Preferably the cargo is placed in front or behind a rider of the stand-up paddle board 110 to avoid interfering with the paddling or unbalance the ride.

In an embodiment, the stand-up paddle board 110 may further comprise light holders (not shown) at the top face 204, and/or the bottom face 206 and/or the periphery 208 of the inflatable body 202. The light holders are normally located at the front and back of the stand-up paddle board 110.

The stand-up paddle board 110 also comprising at least one fin 270 (best shown in FIGS. 6-8). As shown, the fin 270 extends from the bottom face 206 at a rear portion 272 of the inflatable body 202. The fin 270 enables in improving directional stability and control through paddle-steering. For example, the fin 270 can provide lateral lift opposed to water and stabilize a trajectory of the stand-up paddle board 110, i.e. the fin 270 allows controlling a sailing direction by varying the paddling sides. There are times when having smaller side fins next to the main fin 270 assists the straight tracking of the stand-up paddle board 110.

Referring back to FIG. 2, the stand-up paddle board 110 also includes at least one visual indicator arranged on at least the top face 204 and the periphery 206. In an example, the at least one visual indicator includes a light source, a reflective logo or a glow light film. As shown in FIG. 2, a visual indicator 274, such as the glow light film, is arranged on the periphery 208 at the nose of the stand-up paddle board 110. Alternatively, when the visual indicator is a light source (such as battery operated light emitting diodes or cat eyes used in roads), the visual indicator may be mounted on the top face 204, for example, in front portion 214 and rear portion 232 of the top face 204. The visual indicator 274 enables in showing the presence and position of the stand-up paddle board 110 on the surface of body of water during evening or in poor light conditions. In a preferred embodiment the visual indicators 274 are made up of reflective material that will light up if hit by light from street lights or another vessel on the river. Fixings for white front and red back lights may also be detachably fixed to the top face 204 of the stand-up paddle board 110. In an example, the reflective logo (not shown) may be arranged on the top face 204. In another example, visual indicators such as reflective safety markings (not shown) may be arranged on the periphery 208. Specifically, the reflective safety markings may be arranged in front portion 214 and/or rear portion 232 and/or intermediate portion 242.

The reference can be now made to the FIGS. 5-8, in which the stand-up paddle board 110 is shown from different perspective. Specifically, FIGS. 5 and 6 illustrate the top and bottom views of the stand-up paddle board 110, respectively, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Further, FIGS. 7 and 8 illustrate side and front views of the stand-up paddle board 110, respectively, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring now to FIG. 9, illustrated is a perspective view of the stand-up paddle board 110 supporting a cargo 900 thereon using a detachable and adjustable securing arrangement 902 thereof, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

As shown, the stand-up paddle board 110 is floating on a surface 904 of a body of water (for example a lake, a river or a sea with flat water). Further, the cargo 900 is shown to be a Brompton (trade mark by Brompton Bicycle Ltd) bicycle (foldable bicycle). Alternatively, the cargo 900 may be any transportable good, such as boxes, bags and the like, that can be carried by the stand-up paddle board 110.

As shown, in the present embodiment, the detachable and adjustable securing arrangement 902 includes buckles 910 and belts 912 coupled to the buckles 910. In an example, the securing arrangement 902 may include a cord (such the cord 216 forming a continuous-loop to secure the cargo to the top face 204) instead of the belts 912. The securing arrangement 902 also includes a fabric 914 (for example a net or a transparent sheet made of waterproof material) coupled to the belts 912. The buckles 910 are coupled to the front portion 214 of the top face 204, and the belts 912 adjustably surround (or accommodate) the cargo 900 for securing the cargo 900 to the front portion 214 of the top face 204. Further, other personal accessories, such as a mobile phone, a purse, a water bottle and the like (as shown in FIG. 9), can be carried by the fabric 914.

For example, the fabric 914 may include pouches for safely accommodating such personal accessories. The securing arrangement 902 of the present disclosure enables an individual to carry the cargo (such as bicycle and personal belonging) with the stand-up paddle board 110 while sailing, instead of keeping the cargo in shore of the body of the water. This may be very useful when individuals sail for longer distances, for example one place to another and make temporary stays (or camping) in such places.

Additionally, the securing arrangement 902 may be used for securing cargo, such as the cargo 900, on the top face 204 of the stand-up paddle board 110, when the stand-up paddle board 110 is tied to a roof of a car or a pickup truck while carrying the stand-up paddle board 110 from an individual's house to the shore of the body of water.

Referring now to FIG. 10, illustrated is a perspective view of the stand-up paddle board 110 with a detachable and adjustable securing arrangement 1000 having an open top container 1002, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. In the present embodiment, the securing arrangement 1000 includes a plurality of buckles 1010 detachably coupled to the front portion 214 of the top face 204. The securing arrangement 1000 also includes a plurality of belts 1012 adjustably coupled to the plurality of buckles 1010. The securing arrangement 1000 further includes a cargo tray 1014 detachably coupled to the front portion 214 of the top face 204 by the plurality of buckles 1010 and belts 1012. The cargo tray 1014 as shown forms the open top container 1002 for receiving cargo therein. Specifically, the cargo tray 1014 includes a fabric 1020 (made of a substantially hard and waterproof material, such as plastic) and velcro attachments 1022 arranged at different parts of the fabric 1020, such that when the velcro attachments 1022 are made (or attached) the fabric 1020 forms the open top container 1002. The open top container 1002 may be used for carrying cargo (not shown), such as the bicycle, the personal accessories and the like, which can be carried by the stand-up paddle board 110. Additionally, the adhesive patch 220 of the stand-up paddle board 110 is shown to support an imaging device 1030 thereon.

Referring now to FIG. 11A-11B, illustrated are steps of a method 1100 for using a stand-up paddle board kit, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Specifically, those skilled in the art would recognize that the method 1100 illustrates steps involved in the using of the stand-up paddle board kit 100, explained in conjunction with the FIGS. 1-10.

At step 1102, a deflated inflatable stand-up paddle board is withdrawn from a carry bag. For example, the deflated inflatable stand-up paddle may be initially accommodated in the carry bag in a folded state thereof.

At step 1104, the deflated inflatable stand-up paddle board is spread out on a generally level surface such that a fill valve of the inflatable stand-up paddle board is freely accessible. The level surface can be any flat place either near a shore of a body of water or at individual's house.

At step 1106, a lid from the fill valve is removed. The removal of the lid from the fill valve is performed to inflate the deflated inflatable stand-up paddle board.

At step 1108, a lock of the fill valve is pushed down. The lock is pushed down for unlocking the fill valve.

At step 1110, an air hose is twisted onto the fill valve to provide an air-tight coupling between the air hose and the fill valve. The air hose may be associated with a pump.

At step 1112, air through the air hose and the fill valve is provided to an interior of the inflatable stand-up paddle board to inflate the stand-up paddle board. In an example, the inflatable stand-up paddle board (particularly an inflatable body thereof) is inflated to an internal pressure in a range of about 96 and 103 kPa (kilopascal).

At step 1114, the air hose from the fill valve is removed. Once, the inflatable stand-up paddle board is inflated to a desired internal pressure the air hose is removed from the fill valve.

At step 1116, the valve lock is twisted closed to seal the fill valve. Specifically, the valve lock is twisted for closing and sealing the fill valve.

At step 1118, the fill valve lid is replaced. The valve lid is placed on the fill valve to finally enclose the valve lock.

The steps 1102-1118 may be performed either at a shore of the body of water or at individual's house. Specifically, a task of inflating the stand-up paddle board may be performed either at the shore of the body of water or at individual's house based on individual's wish. For example, if the inflation is done at individual's house the inflated the stand-up paddle board may be carried or towed to the shore of the body of water using a driving source.

At step 1120, the inflated inflatable stand-up paddle board is placed on a surface of a body of water. For example, an individual may place the inflated stand-up paddle board on a surface of a body of water (such as flat water).

At step 1122, the individual steps onto a top face of the inflated inflatable stand-up paddle board.

At step 1124, the inflatable stand-up paddle board is propelled and steered on the surface of the body of water. For example, with the help of a paddle the individual may propel and steer the stand-up paddle board on the surface of the body of water.

Further, the steps 1102 to 1124 are only illustrative and other alternatives can also be provided where one or more steps are added, one or more steps are removed, or one or more steps are provided in a different sequence without departing from the scope of the claims herein. For example, the method 1100 may further include steps of stepping off of the top face of the inflated inflatable stand-up paddle board, once sailing is done. Also, the method 1100 includes removing the inflatable stand-up paddle board from the surface of the body of water. Further, the method 1100 includes removing the lid from the fill valve. Moreover, the method 1100 includes twisting the valve lock open to permit air to escape through the fill valve until the inflatable stand-up paddle board has been sufficiently deflated to fit into the carry bag. The method 1100 also includes replacing (placing again) the lid on the fill valve and replacing the deflated inflatable stand-up paddle board in the carry bag.

Modifications to embodiments of the invention described in the foregoing are possible without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the accompanying claims. Expressions such as “including”, “comprising”, “incorporating”, “consisting of”, “have”, “is” used to describe and claim the present invention are intended to be construed in a non-exclusive manner, namely allowing for items, components or elements not explicitly described also to be present. Reference to the singular is also to be construed to relate to the plural. Numerals included within parentheses in the accompanying claims are intended to assist understanding of the claims and should not be construed in any way to limit subject matter claimed by these claims.

Claims

1. A stand-up paddle board comprising:

an inflatable body having a top face, an opposing bottom face, and a periphery extending between the top face and the bottom face, the inflatable body having dimensions enabling the stand-up paddle board to track straight and turn responsively in flat water; and
a detachable and adjustable securing arrangement provided to the top face of the inflatable body configured to secure cargo to the top face.

2. The stand-up paddle board of claim 1, wherein the dimensions of the inflatable body include a length between ca 3 and ca 5 meters and a width between ca 0.4 and ca 1.6 meters, and more preferably a length of ca 4 meters and a width of ca 0.8 meters.

3. The stand-up paddle board of claim 1, wherein the detachable and adjustable securing arrangement further comprises:

a plurality of buckles detachably coupled to a front portion of the top face; and
a cord adjustably coupled to each of the buckles for forming a continuous-loop to secure cargo to the top face.

4. The stand-up paddle board of claim 1, further comprising an adhesive patch arranged on the front portion of the top face and configured to receive a mounting plate therein.

5. The stand-up paddle board of claim 1, further comprising a tube arranged at a rear portion of the inflatable body, the tube configured to receive an axle there-through.

6. The stand-up paddle board of claim 1, further comprising, on the top face, a grip-surface extending from an intermediate portion of the inflatable body to the rear portion of the inflatable body.

7. The stand-up paddle board of claim 1, further comprising a fill valve arranged on the top face at the rear portion of the inflatable body.

8. The stand-up paddle board of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of loops coupled to the top face near the periphery and at the rear portion of the inflatable body.

9. The stand-up paddle board of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of straps coupled to the top face centrally and at the periphery.

10. The stand-up paddle board of claim 1, further comprising a towing loop provided to the bottom face at a front portion of the inflatable body.

11. The stand-up paddle board of claim 1, further comprising at least one fin extending from the bottom face at a rear portion of the inflatable body.

12. The stand-up paddle board of claim 1, further comprising at least one visual indicator arranged on at least the top face and the periphery.

13. The stand up paddle board of claim 12, wherein the at least one visual indicator comprises a light source, a reflective logo or a glow light film.

14. The stand-up paddle board of claim 3, wherein the cord and the plurality of straps are made of a reflective material.

15. The stand-up paddle board of claim 1, further comprising D-rings situated so that a carry strap is connected in two or more D-rings for launching the stand-up paddle board from a height of more than 50 cm in a horizontal plane, and the carry strap is releasable once launched.

16. The stand-up paddle board of claim 1, wherein the detachable and adjustable securing arrangement further comprises:

a plurality of buckles detachably coupled to a front portion of the top face;
a plurality of belts adjustably coupled to the plurality of buckles; and
a cargo tray detachably coupled to the front portion of the top face by the plurality of buckles and belts, wherein the cargo tray is configured to form an open top container for receiving cargo therein.

17. A stand-up paddle board kit comprising:

a stand-up paddle board including: an inflatable body having a top face, an opposing bottom face, and a periphery extending between the top face and the bottom face, the inflatable body having dimensions enabling the stand-up paddle board to track straight and turn responsively in flat water; and a detachable and adjustable securing arrangement provided to the top face of the inflatable body configured to secure cargo to the top face; and
a carry bag mounted with a towing wheel arrangement and configured to accommodate the stand-up paddle board in a deflated state.

18. A method for using a stand-up paddle board kit, comprising:

withdrawing a deflated inflatable stand-up paddle board from a carry bag;
spreading the deflated inflatable stand-up paddle board out on a generally level surface such that a fill valve of the inflatable stand-up paddle board is freely accessible;
removing a lid from the fill valve;
pushing down on a lock of the fill valve;
twisting an air hose onto the fill valve to provide an air-tight coupling between the air hose and the fill valve;
providing air through the air hose and fill valve to an interior of the inflatable stand-up paddle board to inflate the stand-up paddle board to an internal pressure of between ca 69 and ca 150 kPa, and most preferably 138 kPa;
removing the air hose from the fill valve;
twisting the valve lock closed to seal the fill valve;
replacing the fill valve lid;
placing the inflated inflatable stand-up paddle board on a surface of a body of water;
stepping onto a top face of the inflated inflatable stand-up paddle board; and
propelling and steering the inflatable stand-up paddle board on the surface of the body of water.

19. The method as set forth in claim 16, further comprising:

stepping off of the top face of the inflated inflatable stand-up paddle board;
removing the inflatable stand-up paddle board from the surface of the body of water;
removing the lid from the fill valve;
twisting the valve lock open to permit air to escape through the fill valve until the inflatable stand-up paddle board has been sufficiently deflated to fit into the carry bag;
replacing the lid on the fill valve; and
replacing the deflated inflatable stand-up paddle board in the carry bag.
Patent History
Publication number: 20180208279
Type: Application
Filed: Jul 14, 2016
Publication Date: Jul 26, 2018
Inventor: STRANGE Soren (Copenhagen V)
Application Number: 15/744,878
Classifications
International Classification: B63B 35/79 (20060101);