Patents by Inventor Lance F. Gunnell

Lance F. Gunnell has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Patent number: 6537117
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an ergonomic kayak paddle. The paddle has a shaft with a longitudinal axis and with a first end and second end. The shaft is adjustable between a first length and a second length. At least one grip is on the shaft at a point intermediate between the first and second ends of the shaft. The grip is contoured to a user's hand, but does not provide profiles for the user's fingers. The grip may be angled outwardly from the longitudinal axis of the shaft at an angle ranging from about 10° to about 30°. An adjuster positioned within the grip allows the angle of the grip to the handle to be adjusted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2003
    Inventors: Brad J. Larson, Lance F. Gunnell
  • Patent number: 6443089
    Abstract: A device for insertion into the cockpit of a small boat such as a kayak or canoe is presented. The device is a hip grip designed to be positioned within the cockpit of the boat and retain the hip portion of a user of the boat. The device has an inflatable bladder which can be fastened inside the cockpit on an interior wall by a fastener. An inflator is provided to infuse an inflation material into the bladder. The inflation material is retained within the bladder by a retention valve. The inflated bladder exerts a pressure on the hip portion of a user seated within the cockpit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2002
    Inventors: Tyler R. Goucher, Lance F. Gunnell, Gary K. Goucher
  • Patent number: 6328617
    Abstract: A kayak paddle with improved performance features is provided. The kayak paddle includes a smaller diameter shaft than that generally used. This allows the placement of grips on the shaft. The rips have one or more finger and thumb indentations such that the kayaker can position his hand easily and securely on the kayak paddle. The grips may be rotated around the shaft in order to position them at a location which is comfortable to the user. Also provided are paddle blades which may be rotated around the shaft such that they can be positioned in the most beneficial location for the user and the particular activity. Also disclosed are structures on the blades, including ribs and compartments, which direct water flow across the blade to reduce cavitation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2001
    Inventor: Lance F. Gunnell