SYSTEMS, APPARATUSES, AND METHODS FOR ANCHORING, FASTENING, AND RETAINING OF SKATE TRUCK KINGPINS

Abstract

Systems, apparatuses, and methods for fastening components of equipment, for example, a skateboard, among other types of sporting boards, sports apparatuses, or wheeled sporting apparatuses. Fastening systems disclosed herein may be utilized to couple a skateboard truck to a skateboard deck. The fastening systems may add a high level of stability and retainment to the coupling or the fastening of, for example, a kingpin to a baseplate of the skateboard truck. For example, the high level of stability and retainment to the coupling or the fastening may be achieved via a sleeve (e.g., a sleeve having a first threaded section and a second threaded section) that may be formed of high-strength material and may be press-fit into an aperture of the skateboard truck baseplate.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/754,270, filed Feb. 5, 2025, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference herein.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

This disclosure generally relates to assemblies for mounting wheels to the underside of a skateboard deck. More specifically, it relates to systems, apparatuses, and methods for anchoring, fastening, and/or retaining of skate truck kingpins.

BACKGROUND

Conventional skateboards are equipped with steering mechanisms known as trucks. The trucks (e.g., a pair of trucks) are mounted on the underside of a board or deck of a skateboard opposite to each other—for example, one in the front and another one in the rear. Each truck carries two wheels, one at each end of an axle that fits through the truck. Each truck usually contains two donut-shaped elastomeric suspension elements, known as bushings, which are mounted onto a kingpin bolt that is fastened in various ways to the truck baseplate.

Conventional skate trucks follow a basic design in which an axle pivots about an arm attached at one end to the center portion of the axle. The other end of this pivot arm is loosely fitted, at angles typically measuring 30 to 50 degrees, into a simple sleeve (called a “pivot cup” and normally formed of plastic) that is mounted in a baseplate, thus forming a ball-like joint. A pair of bushings, usually doughnut-shaped and made of urethane plastic of varying hardness (e.g., on the Shore “A” scale), is mounted on a kingpin bolt fixed at various angles in the baseplate on the side of the axle opposite the pivot cup. These bushings grasp a ring within, or extending from, the axle body so that the axle is suspended between the ball joint and the bushings. By adjusting the kingpin bolt or a kingpin fastener, the tension on the bushings may be increased or decreased, thereby varying the balance between turning stability and turning ease.

Certain modern skating stunts involve purposefully scraping parts of the truck, particularly the top of an axle hanger or a yoke, against protrusions in the riding environment. This is called “grinding,” and the related stunts frequently involve high impacts as well as abrasion to the truck body. Over time, the grinding can wear away a significant portion of the top of the axle hanger. This increasingly exposes adjacent parts of the truck, particularly the top of the kingpin assembly, to damaging impact and abrasion.

Skate truck kingpins are often pressed in from the underside of the baseplate, with the fastener, typically a hexagonal nylon locknut, resting above the top bushing. Alternatively, the fastener is sometimes pressed into a pocket on the underside of the baseplate, with the kingpin inserted from the top—a so-called “inverted” kingpin orientation, commonly chosen for skate applications where the top of the kingpin assembly is more likely to undergo high impacts and abrasion. The inverted kingpin orientation allows the kingpin head to be recessed away from such impacts and abrasion further than the fastening nut could be recessed in the opposite (i.e., “non-inverted”) kingpin orientation.

The standard constructions seen in the prior art feature kingpin anchoring and fastening systems that are prone to sub-optimal performance, instability, and poor retainment of the kingpin. For example, the kingpin may move or flex laterally and/or may loosen through use of the skateboard.

SUMMARY

Systems, apparatuses, and methods disclosed herein may be directed to improvements in the field of board sports, or sporting boards, or more particularly skateboarding. Increased interest in such activities has increased the need for improved equipment for such endeavors, including the increased stability and durability in the anchoring, fastening, and/or retainment of a kingpin while minimizing a reduction in steering range and a compromise in the steering performance.

Generally disclosed herein are anchoring, fastening, and/or retainment systems for fastening components of equipment, specifically a skateboard, among other types of sporting boards or sports apparatuses or wheeled sporting apparatuses. Fastening, anchoring, and/or retainment systems disclosed herein may be utilized for coupling a kingpin bolt (also referred to herein as a kingpin) of a skateboard to a baseplate (e.g., the truck baseplate) of the skateboard. The anchoring, fastening, and/or retainment systems disclosed herein may utilize one or more sleeve-related features that may improve the stability and the durability of the anchoring and/or the fastening of the kingpin while minimizing a reduction in steering range and a compromise in the steering performance.

The systems, methods, and apparatuses disclosed herein may provide for improved retainment of the kingpin within a sleeve of the baseplate, with a reduced possibility of lateral or longitudinal movement of the kingpin and/or loosening of the kingpin during use of the skateboard.

The systems, methods, and apparatuses disclosed herein may provide for improved anchoring of the kingpin to the baseplate, with a reduced possibility of damage to the baseplate, the kingpin, or other components of a truck during use of the skateboard.

The systems, methods, and apparatuses disclosed herein may provide for a high level of stability and durability to the fastening and anchoring of the kingpin.

In a first aspect, a skateboard truck, comprising: a kingpin; a baseplate configured to be attached to a skateboard deck, the baseplate including an aperture having a sidewall bounding an interior of the aperture; and a sleeve configured to extend within the aperture and including: an interior channel for receiving the kingpin, and an interior surface facing the interior channel, the interior surface having: a first threaded section for engaging the kingpin and having a first retaining force, and a second threaded section for engaging the kingpin and having a second retaining force that is greater than the first retaining force.

Implementations of the aspects may include one or more of the following. A retainer clip may be provided for engaging the kingpin within the interior of the aperture. An exterior surface of the sleeve may include a recess for receiving the retainer clip. The second threaded section may have a smaller inside diameter than the first threaded section. The second threaded section may include one or more slots within a wall of the sleeve. The one or more slots may extend from a bottom end surface of the sleeve up the wall for a length. The one or more slots may extend from a top end surface of the sleeve down the wall for a length. The one or more slots may extend from an exterior surface of the sleeve radially inwardly. A length-wise axis of the one or more slots may be parallel to a length-wise axis of the sleeve. A length-wise axis of the one or more slots may be perpendicular to a length-wise axis of the sleeve. The second threaded section may include a first slot and a second slot opposite the first slot. The second threaded section may include two, four, or eight slots. The second threaded section may include one or more prongs. The second threaded section may include two, four, or eight prongs. One or more slots may separate the one or more prongs. The one or more prongs may be configured to be spring biased toward the kingpin when the kingpin is threaded into the second threaded section. The one or more prongs may extend axially along the interior channel and are deflected radially inward towards the interior channel. The one or more prongs may be configured to deflect radially outward from the interior channel when the kingpin is threaded into the second threaded section. The first threaded section and the second threaded section may be arranged positionally such that the kingpin threads into the first threaded section and subsequently threads into the second threaded section. The first threaded section and the second threaded section may be arranged positionally such that the kingpin threads into the second threaded section and subsequently threads into the first threaded section. The second threaded section may be configured such that a coefficient of friction and/or a frictional force is greater between the second threaded section and the kingpin than between the first threaded section and the kingpin. The second threaded section may have different threading than the first threaded section. The second threaded section may have a different thread pitch, thread angle, and/or thread height than the first threaded section. The interior surface may include an intermediate section between the first threaded section and the second threaded section. The intermediate section may not be threaded. The intermediate section may be thinner than an adjacent section. The sleeve may include an upper portion and a lower portion; and the lower portion may be connected to the upper portion by a connecting portion of a wall of the sleeve. The lower portion may include the second threaded section; and the lower portion may be configured to be spring biased toward the kingpin when the kingpin is threaded into the lower portion. The lower portion may be configured to be canted relative to the upper portion. The lower portion may be configured such that a bottom end surface of the lower portion is canted relative to a top end surface of the upper portion, and the bottom end surface is configured to deflect towards being parallel with the top end surface when the kingpin is threaded into the lower portion. The sleeve may be made of a material that is harder than a material that the baseplate is made out of. The baseplate may include an underside support surface for facing towards the skateboard deck and a top side support surface that may be opposite the underside support surface, and the aperture may extend from the underside support surface to the top side support surface. The kingpin may include a head configured to be positioned with the top side support surface disposed intermediate the head and the skateboard deck.

Aspects include a skateboard including any of the skateboard trucks disclosed herein.

In a second aspect, a skateboard comprising: a skateboard deck; a pair of skateboard trucks coupled to the skateboard deck, each truck configured with: a kingpin, a baseplate attached to the skateboard deck, the baseplate including an aperture, the aperture including a sidewall bounding an interior of the aperture that receives the kingpin, a sleeve extending within the aperture and including: an interior channel for receiving the kingpin, and an interior surface facing the interior channel, the interior surface having: a first threaded section for engaging the kingpin and having a first retaining force, and a second threaded section for engaging the kingpin and having a second retaining force that is greater than the first retaining force, and a hanger with an axle supported by the baseplate; and a set of wheels coupled to each of the pair of skateboard trucks via each axle.

Implementations of the aspects may include one or more of the following. A retainer clip may be provided for engaging the kingpin within the interior of the aperture. An exterior surface of the sleeve may include a recess for receiving the retainer clip. The second threaded section may have a smaller inside diameter than the first threaded section. The second threaded section may include one or more slots within a wall of the sleeve. The one or more slots may extend from a bottom end surface of the sleeve up the wall for a length. The one or more slots may extend from a top end surface of the sleeve down the wall for a length. The one or more slots may extend from an exterior surface of the sleeve radially inwardly. A length-wise axis of the one or more slots may be parallel to a length-wise axis of the sleeve. A length-wise axis of the one or more slots may be perpendicular to a length-wise axis of the sleeve. The second threaded section may include a first slot and a second slot opposite the first slot. The second threaded section may include two, four, or eight slots. The second threaded section may include one or more prongs. The second threaded section may include two, four, or eight prongs. One or more slots may separate the one or more prongs. The one or more prongs may be configured to be spring biased toward the kingpin when the kingpin is threaded into the second threaded section. The one or more prongs may extend axially along the interior channel and are deflected radially inward towards the interior channel. The one or more prongs may be configured to deflect radially outward from the interior channel when the kingpin is threaded into the second threaded section. The first threaded section and the second threaded section may be arranged positionally such that the kingpin threads into the first threaded section and subsequently threads into the second threaded section. The first threaded section and the second threaded section may be arranged positionally such that the kingpin threads into the second threaded section and subsequently threads into the first threaded section. The second threaded section may be configured such that a coefficient of friction and/or a frictional force is greater between the second threaded section and the kingpin than between the first threaded section and the kingpin. The second threaded section may have different threading than the first threaded section. The second threaded section may have a different thread pitch, thread angle, and/or thread height than the first threaded section. The interior surface may include an intermediate section between the first threaded section and the second threaded section. The intermediate section may not be threaded. The intermediate section may be thinner than an adjacent section. The sleeve may include an upper portion and a lower portion; and the lower portion may be connected to the upper portion by a connecting portion of a wall of the sleeve. The lower portion may include the second threaded section; and the lower portion may be configured to be spring biased toward the kingpin when the kingpin is threaded into the lower portion. The lower portion may be configured to be canted relative to the upper portion. The lower portion may be configured such that a bottom end surface of the lower portion is canted relative to a top end surface of the upper portion, and the bottom end surface is configured to deflect towards being parallel with the top end surface when the kingpin is threaded into the lower portion. The sleeve may be made of a material that is harder than a material that the baseplate is made out of. The baseplate may include an underside support surface for facing towards the skateboard deck and a top side support surface that may be opposite the underside support surface, and the aperture may extend from the underside support surface to the top side support surface. The kingpin may include a head configured to be positioned with the top side support surface disposed intermediate the head and the skateboard deck.

Aspects include a method of manufacturing or assembling at least a portion of any of the skateboard trucks or skateboards disclosed herein.

In a third aspect, a method of assembling at least a portion of a skateboard truck or a skateboard, the method comprising: providing a baseplate configured to be attached to a skateboard deck, the baseplate including an aperture, the aperture including a sidewall bounding an interior of the aperture for receiving a kingpin; and inserting a sleeve within the aperture, the sleeve including an interior channel for receiving the kingpin, and an interior surface facing the interior channel, the interior surface having: a first threaded section for engaging the kingpin and having a first retaining force, and a second threaded section for engaging the kingpin and having a second retaining force that is greater than the first retaining force.

Implementations of the aspects may include one or more of the following. A method may further comprise inserting a retainer clip for engaging the kingpin within a recess of the sleeve. A method may further comprise inserting the kingpin through the interior channel of the sleeve and threading the kingpin into and/or through the first threaded section and the second threaded section. A method may further comprise bending one or more prongs of the sleeve radially inward. A method may further comprise bending a connecting portion of the sleeve such that a lower portion of the sleeve is canted relative to an upper portion of the sleeve. The second threaded section may have a smaller inside diameter than the first threaded section. The second threaded section may include one or more slots within a wall of the sleeve. The one or more slots may extend from a bottom end surface of the sleeve up the wall for a length. The one or more slots may extend from a top end surface of the sleeve down the wall for a length. The one or more slots may extend from an exterior surface of the sleeve radially inwardly. A length-wise axis of the one or more slots may be parallel to a length-wise axis of the sleeve. A length-wise axis of the one or more slots may be perpendicular to a length-wise axis of the sleeve. The second threaded section may include a first slot and a second slot opposite the first slot. The second threaded section may include two, four, or eight slots. The second threaded section may include one or more prongs. The second threaded section may include two, four, or eight prongs. One or more slots may separate the one or more prongs. The one or more prongs may be configured to be spring biased toward the kingpin when the kingpin is threaded into the second threaded section. The one or more prongs extend axially along the interior channel and are deflected radially inward towards the interior channel. The one or more prongs may be configured to deflect radially outward from the interior channel when the kingpin is threaded into the second threaded section. The first threaded section and the second threaded section may be arranged positionally such that the kingpin threads into the first threaded section and subsequently threads into the second threaded section. The first threaded section and the second threaded section may be arranged positionally such that the kingpin threads into the second threaded section and subsequently threads into the first threaded section. The second threaded section may be configured such that a coefficient of friction and/or a frictional force is greater between the second threaded section and the kingpin than between the first threaded section and the kingpin. The second threaded section may have different threading than the first threaded section. The second threaded section may have a different thread pitch, thread angle, and/or thread height than the first threaded section. The interior surface may include an intermediate section between the first threaded section and the second threaded section. The intermediate section may not be threaded. The intermediate section may be thinner than an adjacent section. The sleeve may include an upper portion and a lower portion; and the lower portion may be connected to the upper portion by a connecting portion of a wall of the sleeve. The lower portion may include the second threaded section; and the lower portion may be configured to be spring biased toward the kingpin when the kingpin is threaded into the lower portion. The lower portion may be configured to be canted relative to the upper portion. The lower portion may be configured such that a bottom end surface of the lower portion is canted relative to a top end surface of the upper portion, and the bottom end surface is configured to deflect towards being parallel with the top end surface when the kingpin is threaded into the lower portion. The sleeve may be made of a material that is harder than a material that the baseplate is made out of. The baseplate may include an underside support surface for facing towards the skateboard deck and a top side support surface that may be opposite the underside support surface, and the aperture may extend from the underside support surface to the top side support surface. The kingpin may include a head configured to be positioned with the top side support surface disposed intermediate the head and the skateboard deck.

Any of the features of any of the aspects, including but not limited to any examples of any of the first through third aspects referred to above, is applicable to all other aspects and examples identified herein, including but not limited to any examples of any of the first through third aspects referred to above. Moreover, any of the features of an example of the various aspects, including but not limited to any examples of any of the first through third aspects referred to above, is independently combinable, partly or wholly with other examples described herein in any way, e.g., one, two, or three or more examples may be combinable in whole or in part. Further, any of the features of an example of the various aspects, including but not limited to any examples of any of the first through third aspects referred to above, may be made optional to other aspects or examples. Any aspect or example of a method can be performed by a system or apparatus of another aspect or example, and any aspect or example of a system or apparatus can be configured to perform a method of another aspect or example, including but not limited to any examples of any of the first through third aspects referred to above. Methods may include methods of assembling any of the components disclosed herein. One or more components of aspects or examples disclosed herein may be provided solely, or in combination with other components disclosed herein.

This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form. The concepts are further described in the Detailed Description section. Elements or steps other than those described in this Summary are possible, and no element or step is necessarily required. This Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended for use as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter. The claimed subject matter is not limited to implementations that solve any or all disadvantages noted in any part of this disclosure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a side view of a skateboard according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 2 illustrates a lower perspective view of a deck of a skateboard according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 3 illustrates a lower perspective view of a partially assembled skateboard according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 4 illustrates a lower perspective view of a deck of the skateboard shown in FIG. 3 with fasteners protruding through the deck and trucks positioned over the fasteners according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 5 illustrates a top side perspective view of a baseplate of a truck according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 6 illustrates an underside perspective view of the baseplate shown in FIG. 5 according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 7 illustrates an exploded view of an assembly according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective end view of a sleeve shown in FIG. 7 according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 9 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of the sleeve shown in FIG. 7 according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 10 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of a sleeve according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 11 illustrates a bottom end view of the sleeve shown in FIG. 7 according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 12A illustrates a side cross-sectional view of the sleeve shown in FIG. 10 inserted into an aperture of a baseplate according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 12B illustrates a side cross-sectional view of a kingpin shown in FIG. 7 threaded into the sleeve shown in FIG. 10 according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 13 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the kingpin shown in FIG. 7 threaded into the sleeve shown in FIG. 7 according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 14 illustrates a top side perspective view of a baseplate of a truck including the assembly shown in FIG. 7 according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 15 illustrates an underside perspective view of the baseplate of the truck including the assembly shown in FIG. 7 according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 16 illustrates a perspective cross-sectional view of the baseplate of the truck including the assembly shown in FIG. 7 according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 17 illustrates a bottom end view of a sleeve according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 18 illustrates a bottom end view of a sleeve according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 19 illustrates a bottom end view of a sleeve according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 20 illustrates an exploded view of an assembly according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 21 illustrates a top end view of a sleeve shown in FIG. 20 according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 22A illustrates a side cross-sectional view of the sleeve shown in FIG. 20 inserted into an aperture of a baseplate according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 22B illustrates a side cross-sectional view of a kingpin shown in FIG. 20 threaded into the sleeve shown in FIG. 20 according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 23 illustrates an exploded view of an assembly according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 24 illustrates a perspective end view of a sleeve shown in FIG. 23 according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 25 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of the sleeve shown in FIG. 23 within an aperture of a baseplate shown in FIG. 23.

FIG. 26 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of a kingpin shown in FIG. 23 threaded into the sleeve shown in FIG. 25 according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 27 illustrates an exploded view of an assembly according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 28 illustrates a side view of a sleeve shown in FIG. 27 according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 29 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of a sleeve within an aperture of a baseplate shown in FIG. 27.

FIG. 30 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of a kingpin shown in FIG. 27 threaded into the sleeve shown in FIG. 29 according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 31 illustrates an exploded view of an assembly according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 32 illustrates a side view of a sleeve shown in FIG. 31 according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 33 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of a sleeve within an aperture of a baseplate shown in FIG. 31.

FIG. 34 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of a kingpin shown in FIG. 31 threaded into the sleeve shown in FIG. 33 according to aspects of the disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary skateboard 10 (may also be referred to as a skateboard system 10). The skateboard 10 may include a skateboard deck 12, a plurality of wheels 14a-d, and a plurality of trucks 16a, b (e.g., a pair of skateboard trucks 16a, b coupled to the deck 12) that may be configured to support the plurality of wheels 14a-d. In examples, the skateboard 10 may include a greater or fewer number of components, or modifications of the components illustrated in FIG. 1 as desired.

The deck 12 may comprise a board 11 of the skateboard 10. A user (e.g., a rider) may stand upon the deck 12 to ride the skateboard 10 and to perform a variety of tricks if desired. The deck 12 may include a nose 18 at the front of the deck 12, a tail 20 at the rear of the deck 12, and a main body 22 between the nose 18 and the tail 20. One or both of the nose 18 or the tail 20 may be angled relative to the main body 22, or may be planar with the main body 22 in examples as desired.

Referring to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the deck 12 may have a length 24 and a width 26 (marked in FIG. 2), which may be varied in examples as desired.

The deck 12 may include a top (or upper) surface 28, and a bottom (or lower) surface 30 (marked in FIG. 2) facing opposite the top surface 28. The top surface 28 may, for example, be a surface for a user (e.g., a rider) to stand upon when riding the skateboard 10.

In examples, the top surface 28 may include a layer of grip tape 32 that may be applied to a surface of the board 11 forming the deck 12. The grip tape 32 may be utilized to increase the grip of a user (e.g., a rider) upon the deck 12. The grip tape 32 may cover the entirety of the surface of the board 11 or may cover only a portion of the board 11.

The deck 12 may include holes 36a-d, 38a-d (marked in FIG. 2) that may be utilized to couple the deck 12 to the trucks 16a, b. The holes 36a-d, 38a-d may pass through the deck 12 from the top surface 28 to the bottom surface 30. A first group, or leading group, of the holes 36a-d may be utilized to couple to a first truck 16b or leading truck of the skateboard 10. A second group, or tailing group, of the holes 38a-d may be utilized to couple to a second truck 16a or tailing truck of the skateboard 10.

The first group of the holes 36a-d may be spaced from one other substantially in a rectangular configuration. The position of the first group of holes 36a-d may correspond to the position of holes of the first truck 16b for coupling with the deck 12. The second group of the holes 38a-d may similarly be positioned substantially in a rectangular configuration and may correspond to the position of holes of the second truck 16a for coupling with the deck 12. The first group of the holes 36a-d may be positioned proximate the nose 18, and the second group of the holes 38a-d may be positioned proximate the tail 20.

Referring to FIG. 3 with continuing reference to FIG. 1, the plurality of wheels 14a-d may be configured to roll to provide movement of the skateboard 10. Each wheel 14a-d may be coupled to a respective truck 16a, b via one or more bearings 44 that may allow the wheel 14a-d to spin. Two bearings may be fit into pockets integrated into the wheel body. One or more washers 46 or spacers 48 may be utilized for coupling to the respective truck 16a, b as well. One or more fasteners 50 such as nuts may be utilized to couple the wheels 14 a-d to a respective truck 16a, b.

The trucks 16a, b may comprise steering mechanisms. Generally, trucks may: 1) connect the wheels to the deck; 2) provide wide-ranging steering response, whereby the wheel axles swivel to create a finite turning radius when, by means of lateral weight shifts, the skater tilts the deck about its longitudinal axis; 3) by means of a resilient suspension system, smoothly and predictably resist the skater's varying lateral weight shifts, thus stabilizing linear rolling motion and providing control over the steering response; and 4) by means of the same resilient suspension system, return the deck to the neutral, non-turning position after the skater discontinues a lateral weight shift.

The trucks 16a, b may be mounted on the underside or bottom of the deck 12 (e.g., to the bottom surface 30), one in front and one in rear. Each truck 16a, b may carry two wheels of the plurality of wheels 14a-d, one at each end of the truck's axle. The trucks 16a, b may be configured to support the plurality of wheels 14a-d. The trucks 16a, b may be configured to allow the plurality of wheels 14a-d to pivot with respect to the deck 12 (e.g., a length-wise axis of the deck 12) to allow the skateboard 10 to turn. Each truck 16a, b may include a respective truck hanger 52a, bthat may include a respective axle 54a, b (marked in FIG. 4). The wheels 14a-d may be configured to couple to a respective axle 54a, b and rotate about the axle 54a, b. Sets of the wheels 14a-d may be coupled to each pair of trucks 16a, b via each axle 54a, b.

Each truck hanger 52a, b may be supported by a respective baseplate 56a, b. Each truck hanger 52a, b may be configured to pivot relative to a respective baseplate 56a, b to allow the skateboard 10 to turn. A variety of pivot mechanisms may be utilized to allow the truck hanger 52a, b to pivot. As shown in FIG. 3, for example, a pivot mechanism utilizing a bushing 58, a kingpin (surrounded by the bushing 58), and a pivot bushing 60 (or pivot cup) may be utilized. In examples, other forms of pivot mechanisms may be utilized as desired.

The baseplate 56a, b may be utilized to couple the respective truck 16a, b to the deck 12. The baseplate 56a, b may include a flattened plate or may have other configurations as desired. The baseplate 56a, b may be configured to be placed against the bottom surface 30 of the deck 12. Referring also to FIG. 4, in examples, a baseplate 56b may include respective holes 62a-d, and a baseplate 56a may include holes 64 that may be utilized to couple the respective truck 16a, b to the deck 12. The holes 62a-d, 64 may be spaced to align with the respective holes 36a-d, 38a-d of the deck 12, and the holes 62a-d (as well as the holes 64) may each be positioned substantially in a rectangular configuration as desired. Other configurations may be utilized in examples. The truck 16a, b may be anchored to the bottom surface 30 by a plurality of bolts 66 being inserted from the side of the top surface 28 of the deck 12, fastened through the respective holes 36a-d, 38a-d of the deck 12 and the respective holes 62a-d, 64, and secured via a plurality of fasteners 120 (e.g., on or within the baseplate 56a, b).

FIG. 5 illustrates a top perspective view of a baseplate 80 that may be utilized in examples herein. The baseplate 80 may include features disclosed in regard to other forms of baseplates disclosed herein, for example features disclosed in regard to the baseplates 56a, b or other forms of baseplates. The baseplate 80 may be configured to be attached to the skateboard deck 12, and may include holes 82 that may be utilized in a similar manner as the holes 62a-d, 64 discussed in regard to FIG. 4.

The baseplate 80 may include a main body 83 having a top side 84 (shown in FIG. 5) and an underside 86 (shown in FIG. 6). The top side 84 may face towards the ground and away from the deck 12 in use, and the underside 86 may face opposite the top side 84 and towards the deck 12 in use. The top side 84 may include an opening 88 that may include a pivot cup for receiving an end of a pivot arm coupled to a hanger.

Referring to FIG. 5, the top side 84 may include a main body surface 85 that may be contoured to a desired shape of the top side 84. For example, the main body surface 85 may be shaped to form contours as shown in FIG. 5.

Referring to FIG. 6, the underside 86 may include a main body surface 96. The main body surface 96 of the underside 86 may be flat to allow for a flat mating surface with the bottom surface 30 of the deck 12. In examples, other configurations (e.g., a plurality of recesses, or a curved surface) may be utilized as desired.

Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, the baseplate 80 may include an aperture 98. The aperture 98 may be configured to receive a kingpin. The aperture 98 may extend from the top side 84 to the underside 86 of the baseplate 80, in examples, and may have a length.

The aperture 98 may include a sidewall 100 that bounds an interior 102 of the aperture 98 for receiving the kingpin. The sidewall 100 may have a cylindrical shape to thus define a cylindrical interior 102 or interior channel of the aperture 98, or may have another shape in examples as desired (e.g., rectangular or hexagonal, among other shapes).

An upper or top side end of the aperture 98 may extend to a top side support surface 104 (marked in FIG. 5). A lower end of the aperture 98 may extend to an underside support surface 106 (marked in FIG. 6), in examples. The underside support surface 106 may face towards the deck 12, and the top side support surface 104 may be opposite the underside support surface 106 and face away from the deck 12 (e.g., towards the ground). The aperture 98 may extend from the underside support surface 106 to the top side support surface 104, in examples.

In examples, the aperture 98 may have a shelf (or step) 95 at the lower end of the aperture 98. The shelf 95 may have an annular shape and may protrude or extend radially inwardly relative to the sidewall 100, in examples. The shelf 95 may have a top surface 99 with the underside support surface 106 (marked in FIG. 6) forming a bottom surface of the shelf 95, in examples. The top surface 99 may be perpendicular to the sidewall 100, for example. In examples, the top surface 99 may be tapered or curved (e.g., the top surface 99 may be a tapered or curved surface 133 as shown in FIG. 12A). The shelf 95 may define a lower sidewall 89 of the aperture 98. The shelf 95 may cause a first portion 98a (marked in FIG. 12A) of the aperture 98 to have a first inside diameter 91 (marked in FIG. 12A) that is larger than a second inside diameter 93 (marked in FIG. 12A) of a second portion 98b of the aperture 98. The second portion 98b of the aperture 98 may be positioned proximate a lower end 135 (marked in FIG. 12A) of the aperture 98. The portions 98a, 98b may have cylindrical shapes with uniform (or substantially uniform) diameters, or other shapes may be utilized in examples.

Referring to FIG. 6, in examples, the underside 86 may include a pocket 108 having a pocket surface 97. In examples, the pocket surface 97 may include the underside support surface 106. The pocket surface 97 may be angled and extend in a top-wise direction from the main body surface 96 in examples (as shown in FIG. 6, for example). The angle of the pocket surface 97 may vary from the angle of the sidewall 100 in examples (e.g., have a lesser vertical angle than the sidewall 100). The pocket surface 97, for example, may taper to the underside support surface 106. In examples, the pocket surface 97 may be perpendicular to the direction of the sidewall 100. In examples, the angle of the top side support surface 104 (marked in FIG. 5) may be transverse, angled, or perpendicular to the direction of the sidewall 100 or other angles may be utilized in examples. Other shapes or configurations of top side support surfaces, underside support surfaces, pockets, and/or pocket surfaces may be utilized in examples.

FIG. 7 illustrates the baseplate 80 and a configuration of an assembly 122 that may be utilized in examples herein. All or a portion of the assembly 122 may be utilized in examples. The assembly 122 may include a kingpin 124 and/or a sleeve 126. In examples, the assembly 122 may further include a retainer 150. In examples, the retainer 150 may be excluded.

The sleeve 126 may include an exterior surface 128 and an interior surface 130 that bounds and faces towards an interior channel 132 of the sleeve 126. The interior channel 132 may be configured to receive the kingpin 124. The sleeve 126 may include a wall 101 (marked in FIG. 9). The wall 101 of the sleeve 126 may be defined by the exterior surface 128 and the interior surface 130. The sleeve 126 may further include a top (or first) end surface 134 and a bottom (or second) end surface 136 (marked in FIG. 8) configured to face opposite the top end surface 134 and being at an opposite end of the sleeve 126. The top end surface 134 and the bottom end surface 136 may define a length A (marked in FIG. 9) of the sleeve 126. The exterior surface 128 may comprise a radially outward facing side surface and the axially facing end surfaces 134, 136 may extend between and join the exterior surface 128 and the interior surface 130, in examples. The sleeve 126 may have a cylindrical shape as shown in FIG. 7, or may have other shapes, in examples (e.g, triangular, rectangular or square, pentagonal, hexagonal, etc.).

The sleeve 126 may be configured to extend within the aperture 98 of the baseplate 80 as shown in FIG. 16, for example. The sleeve 126 may comprise an insert or insert body that is inserted into the aperture 98, and may be utilized to increase the hardness of the channel formed through the baseplate 80 that receives the kingpin 124. Thus, the hardness of the sleeve 126 is preferably greater than the material of the sidewall 100 of the aperture 98. The hardness of the sleeve 126 may be harder than the material of the entirety of the baseplate 80. For example, the baseplate 80 may be cast out of a relatively lightweight and soft material such as aluminum (or other materials), and the sleeve 126 may be made of a harder material such as steel, iron, alloys of iron, or other materials with greater hardness than the material of the baseplate 80. This may reduce a possibility of damaging the baseplate 80 (e.g., deformation, ovalization, etc.) through use of the skateboard 10 and may improve retention of the kingpin 124. In examples, the hardness of the sleeve 126 may comprise an HRC (Rockwell scale) hardness of between 28-45, although other ranges and materials may be utilized in examples. The hardness of the sleeve 126 may further allow for features such as threading 146 (marked in FIG. 8) to be provided on the interior surface 130 of the sleeve 126 and effectively utilized to engage the kingpin 124.

In examples, the exterior surface 128 of the sleeve 126 may be smooth, or may include one or more engagement features that may be configured to engage the sidewall 100 of the aperture 98. The one or more engagement features may have a variety of forms in examples. The one or more engagement features, for example, may comprise a variation in a surface profile of the exterior surface 128. The one or more engagement features may increase friction (e.g., may comprise friction elements) with the sidewall 100 to reduce the possibility of axial movement or dislodgement of the sleeve 126 and/or rotational movement of the sleeve 126 within the aperture 98. The one or more engagement features, for example, may have the form of one or more grooves and/or ridges in the exterior surface 128. The one or more engagement features may have the form of knurls or flutes or other variations in the surface profile of the exterior surface 128 in examples. Other forms of engagement features may be utilized as desired. In examples, the use of engagement features may be excluded. Any other sleeve disclosed herein may utilize engagement features as desired.

FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective end view of the sleeve 126 from the bottom end surface 136. As shown in FIG. 8, a transition portion 144 between the exterior surface 128 and the bottom end surface 136 may comprise a tapered or a curved transition. The transition portion 144 may improve the ease of pressing the sleeve 126 into the aperture 98 with the bottom end surface 136 leading the insertion, in examples.

The sleeve 126 may include one or more slots (or cutouts) 103 in the wall 101 (marked in FIG. 9) of the sleeve 126. The sleeve 126 and/or the wall 101 may include two slots as shown in FIG. 8. In examples, the sleeve 126 and/or the wall 101 may include one slot or more than two slots.

The one or more slots 103 may separate and/or define a plurality of prongs of the sleeve 126. For example, the two slots 103 of the sleeve 126 may separate a first prong 111 and a second prong 113 of the sleeve 126.

FIG. 9 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the sleeve 126. In the view shown in FIG. 9, the prongs 111, 113 have not yet been deflected radially inward towards the interior channel 132 of the sleeve 126. The one or more slots 103 may have a length B. That is, the one or more slots 103 may extend from the bottom end surface 136 of the sleeve 126 up the wall 101 for the length B. The length B of the one or more slots 103 may be less than the length A of the sleeve 126. For example, the length B of the one or more slots 103 may be half or less than half the length A of the sleeve 126 (in examples, the one or more slots 103 may have a different length). Each of the one or more slots 103 may have the same or substantially the same length (in examples, some or all of the one or more slots 103 may have different lengths).

As shown in FIG. 9, the one or more slots 103 may define and/or be formed along an axis that is parallel to a length-wise axis of the sleeve 126. For example, a length-wise axis of the one or more slots 103 may be parallel to the length-wise axis of the sleeve 126. The resulting prongs 111, 113 may extend axially along the interior channel 132 of the sleeve 126. In examples, a length-wise axis of the one or more slots 103 may be transverse or perpendicular to the length-wise axis of the sleeve 126 (e.g., as described with regard to sleeves 426, 526 of FIGS. 27 and 31, respectively). The one or more slots 103 may be through slots such that the one or more slots 103 extend through, for example, a width G of the wall 101 (e.g., from the exterior surface 128 to the interior surface 130). A top portion of the one or more slots 103 may be bounded by the wall 101 with a bottom portion of the one or more slots 103 being unbounded as shown in FIG. 9.

The interior surface 130 of the sleeve 126 may include an engagement surface in the form of threading 146 (marked in FIG. 8). The threading 146 may be configured to engage corresponding threading 148 (marked in FIG. 7) on the kingpin 124. The interior surface 130 of the sleeve 126 may be configured to retain the kingpin 124 within the interior channel 132 (marked in FIG. 7) of the sleeve 126. For example, the interior surface 130 of the sleeve 126 may prevent longitudinal and lateral movement of the kingpin 124 and may prevent the kingpin 124 from loosening and/or backing out of the sleeve 126.

Referring to FIG. 9, to retain the kingpin 124, the interior surface 130 of the sleeve 126 may have different sections having different retaining forces. For example, the interior surface 130 of the sleeve 126 may include a first threaded section 105 having a first retaining force and a second threaded section 107 having a second retaining force. The second retaining force of the second threaded section 107 may be greater than the first retaining force of the first threaded section 105. The first retaining force and the second retaining force may each be or correspond to, for example, a coefficient of friction and/or a frictional force between the kingpin 124 and the first threaded section 105 and the second threaded section 107, respectively. For example, a lower coefficient of friction and/or frictional force may exist between the kingpin 124 and the first threaded section 105 when the kingpin 124 is threaded into and/or through the first threaded section 105 than between the kingpin 124 and the second threaded section 107 when the kingpin 124 is threaded into and/or through the second threaded section 107.

The first threaded section 105 may be positioned proximate and/or adjacent to the second threaded section 107. In examples, an intermediate section of the interior surface 130 may separate the first threaded section 105 and the second threaded section 107. The first threaded section 105 may be positioned proximate and/or adjacent to a top or upper end of the sleeve 126, in examples (e.g., an end that is proximate or at the top side support surface 104 shown in FIG. 5). The second threaded section 107 may be positioned proximate and/or adjacent to a bottom (or lower) end 109 of the sleeve 126 (e.g., an end that is proximate the shelf 95 marked in FIG. 5), in examples. Accordingly, the first threaded section 105 and the second threaded section 107 may be arranged positionally such that when the kingpin 124 (marked in FIG. 7) is threaded into the sleeve 126, the threading 148 (marked in FIG. 7) of the kingpin 124 may first contact the first threaded section 105 and may subsequently contact the second threaded section 107 as the kingpin 124 is threaded into and/or through the sleeve 126.

Thus, a difficulty of threading the kingpin 124 into the sleeve 126 may increase as the kingpin 124 is threaded to contact the second threaded section 107 and threaded even deeper into the sleeve 126. This arrangement of the first threaded section 105 and the second threaded section 107 may have the benefit of improving the ease of aligning and initially threading the kingpin 124 into the top end of the sleeve 126. After the kingpin 124 is threaded into the first threaded section 105 and thus aligned with the sleeve 126, a difficulty of threading the kingpin 124 may increase as the kingpin 124 is threaded deeper into the sleeve 126 and into the second threaded section 107. This may decrease a risk of a loose kingpin 124 resulting, or any slack or undesired lateral or longitudinal movement of the kingpin 124 resulting. A tight fit may be provided by the second threaded section 107. The force or torque required to rotate the kingpin 124 increases when the kingpin 124 rotates through the second threaded section 107, relative to the force or torque required to rotate the kingpin 124 solely through the first threaded section 105.

The combination of the first threaded section 105 and the second threaded section 107 may increase the safety of the skateboard 10 by preventing cross threading of the kingpin 124 (thereby preventing damage to the kingpin 124 and the sleeve 126 and ensuring proper operation) and retaining the kingpin 124 thereby preventing the kingpin 124 from loosening during use of the skateboard 10.

As stated, the sleeve 126 is shown in FIG. 9 prior to inward deflection of the prongs 111, 113. The first threaded section 105 may have an inside diameter E and the second threaded section 107 may have an inside diameter F. The increased retaining force of the second threaded section 107 may be produced by deflecting the prongs 111, 113 radially inward towards the interior channel 132 of the sleeve 126.

FIG. 10, illustrates the sleeve 126 with the prongs 111, 113 having been deflected radially inward. Due to the inward deflection of the prongs 111, 113, the inside diameter E of the first threaded section 105 may be greater than the inside diameter F of the second threaded section 107. The second threaded section 107 may be tapered such that the inside diameter F of the second threaded section 107 becomes progressively smaller along the axial length of the second threaded section 107 (e.g., from a top or upper end of the second threaded section 107 toward a bottom (or lower) end of the second threaded section 107). Thus, a force or torque for threading the kingpin 124 into the sleeve 126 may be constant and/or may minimally increase for the first threaded section 105 but may gradually (or sharply) increase as the kingpin 124 is threaded deeper into the sleeve 126 and into and/or through the second threaded section 107.

To form the second threaded section 107, in examples, the sleeve 126 may first be formed with an interior surface having threading and a constant inside diameter for a length of the sleeve 126 (as represented in FIG. 9 for example). A force (e.g., a compression force) may be applied (e.g., via a press, a clamp, a crimping machine, etc.) to the bottom end 109 of the sleeve 126 (e.g., as shown by the arrows 115 in FIG. 9) to taper the interior surface 130 of the sleeve 126 thereby forming the second threaded section 107. For example, when the force is applied to the bottom end 109 of the sleeve 126, the one or more slots 103 within the wall 101 of the sleeve 126 may reduce in width to allow the interior surface 130 to become tapered. The plurality of prongs 111, 113 may bend radially inward toward a center of the sleeve 126 and the one or more slots 103 may compress such that a width D (marked in FIG. 9) of the one or more slots 103 that is proximate to the bottom end of the one or more slots 103 is less than a width C of the one or more slots 103 that is proximate to the top end of the one or more slots 103 thereby forming the second threaded section 107.

The sleeve 126 having the plurality of prongs 111, 113 deflected radially inward towards the interior channel 132 and the one or more slots 103 compressed may have an appearance as shown in FIG. 10, for example. In examples, the second threaded section 107 may comprise the interior surface 130 of the sleeve 126 that is on the bent plurality of prongs 111, 113. The resulting second threaded section 107 may have a circular shape or an oval shape based on, for example, how the force is applied to the bottom end 109 of the sleeve 126 and/or a number and/or a location of the one or more slots 103 in the wall 101 of the sleeve 126.

FIG. 11 illustrates a bottom end view of the sleeve 126 having the two slots 103 and prior to being deflected (as represented in FIG. 9 for example). Both the slots 103 may define and/or be formed along a plane 123 such that the two slots are aligned as shown in FIG. 11. Force may be applied to the first prong 111 of the sleeve 126 and/or the second prong 113 of the sleeve 126 such that the two slots 103 compress as discussed herein. For example, the two prongs 111, 113 may each be pressed toward the center of the sleeve 126 such that the two prongs 111, 113 bend radially inward (as represented by the dashed lines in FIG. 11, for example). In examples, the two prongs 111, 113 may act as springs that are spring biased towards the kingpin 124 thereby retaining the kingpin 124. The spring bias may increase the amount of frictional force between the kingpin 124 and the second threaded section 107 thereby increasing the second retaining force. In examples, the two prongs 111, 113 may not act as springs (e.g., the two prongs 111, 113 may not be compliant). The second threaded section 107 of the sleeve 126 may have a circular or an oval shape when the sleeve 126 includes two slots 103 and two prongs 111, 113 and the force is applied as shown by the arrows 115 in FIG. 9 and FIG. 11. An inward force applied by the second threaded section 107 to the kingpin 124 (e.g., by the axially extending prongs 111, 113) may increase the second retaining force. The bent profile of the two prongs 111, 113 may decrease and/or alter one or more characteristics of the threading of the second threaded section 107 (e.g., thread pitch, thread angle, thread height, distance, etc.) compared to the first threaded section 105 thereby also increasing the second retaining force of the second threaded section 107. By altering the one or more characteristics of the threading of the second threaded section 107, the frictional force between the kingpin 124 and the second threaded section 107 may be increased thereby increasing the second retaining force.

Other configurations may be utilized in examples. Features disclosed in regard to FIGS. 5-11 may be utilized solely or in combination with any other example disclosed herein.

FIG. 12A is a cross-sectional side view of the baseplate 80 illustrating the sleeve 126 within the aperture 98. As discussed above, the second threaded section 107 of the sleeve 126 may be formed by applying a force to the bottom end 109 of the sleeve 126 such that the plurality of prongs 111, 113 bend radially inward and the interior surface 130 of the sleeve 126 is tapered. The sleeve 126 may be pressed axially into the aperture 98 in a direction from the top side support surface 104 towards the top surface 99 of the shelf 95 (marked in FIG. 5). The sleeve 126 may be positioned within the interior 102 of the aperture 98, with the prongs 111, 113 spaced radially inward from the sidewall 100 of the aperture 98.

In examples, the radially inward deflection of the second threaded section 107 of the sleeve 126 may be formed by pressing the sleeve 126 into the aperture 98 of the baseplate 80. For example, the sleeve 126 may be pressed into the aperture 98 until the transition portion 144 of the sleeve 126 engages the tapered or curved surface 133 of the aperture 98 as shown in FIG. 12A, for example. The tapered or curved surface 133 may be the top surface 99 (marked in FIG. 5) of the shelf 95, in examples. By pressing the sleeve 126 into the aperture 98, the tapered or curved surface 133 may cause the plurality of prongs 111, 113 of the sleeve 126 to deflect radially inward towards the center of the sleeve 126 thereby forming the deflection of the second threaded section 107. The tapered or curved surface 133 may taper or extend from the sidewall 100 to the lower sidewall 89.

In examples, the kingpin 124 may be threaded through the first threaded section 105 and through the second threaded section 107. In examples, the prongs 111, 113 may deflect radially outward from the interior channel 132 when the kingpin 124 is threaded into the second threaded section 107. FIG. 12B, for example, illustrates a resulting configuration. The compliant prongs 111, 113 deflect radially outward to accommodate the diameter of the kingpin 124. A space or gap between the prongs 111, 113 and the sidewall 100 of the aperture 98 is reduced to allow for the radially outward expansion of the prongs 111, 113. The prongs 111, 113 may contact the sidewall 100 or may remain spaced from the sidewall 100 in the outwardly deflected configuration. The force applied by the second threaded section 107 may increase the coefficient of friction and/or a frictional force applied by the second threaded section 107 to the kingpin 124 thus providing greater securement for the kingpin 124. Upon the kingpin 124 being unscrewed or withdrawn from the sleeve 126, the prongs 111, 113 may return to configuration deflected radially inward as shown in FIG. 12A for example.

In alternative examples, the ends of the bent prongs 111, 113 may rest against the tapered or curved surface 133 such that the prongs 111, 113 are not compliant when the kingpin 124 is threaded into the second threaded section 107. Thus, in examples, the force required to thread the kingpin 124 into the sleeve 126 may increase sharply when the kingpin 124 reaches the second threaded section 107. Other configurations may be utilized as desired.

Referring back to FIG. 7, the kingpin 124 of the assembly 122 may include an elongate shaft 190 or bolt body for insertion within the channels of the sleeve 126 and a head 193. The shaft 190 may include the threading 148 along at least a portion of its length, such as at a distal end portion 192 of the shaft 190 relative to the head 193. A proximal portion of the shaft 190 may be smooth and may lack threading, in examples. The head 193 may comprise a portion of the kingpin 124 having a larger diameter than the shaft 190. The head 193 may be sized to have a larger diameter than the inner diameter of the sleeve 126. Other forms of kingpins may be utilized in examples.

In examples, the assembly 122 may include the retainer 150 for engaging the kingpin 124 within the interior of the aperture 98. The retainer 150 may be utilized in combination with other features disclosed herein. The retainer 150 may include one or more protrusions 152 that extend radially inward for contacting the kingpin 124. The retainer 150 may comprise a clip (as represented in FIG. 7) or may have another configuration in examples. The clip may comprise a strip of material contoured to form multiple protrusions 152 as shown in FIG. 7, or may have another configuration in examples (e.g., pins, detents, latches, among other forms of retainers). The clip or protrusions 152 may comprise a spring that may be spring biased towards the kingpin 124 in examples.

In examples, the sleeve 126 may receive the retainer 150. For example, the sleeve 126 may include a recess 154 for receiving the retainer 150. The exterior surface 128 of the sleeve 126 may include the recess 154. The recess 154 may comprise an annular recess in the exterior surface 128 or may have another configuration as desired. In examples, one or more openings 156 in the exterior surface 128 of the sleeve 126 may receive a portion of the retainer 150 (e.g., the protrusions 152, an end, or tang, or radially inward protruding portion of the retainer 150). The retainer 150 may engage the one or more openings 156 to reduce the possibility of the retainer 150 rotating within the recess 154 of the sleeve 126. Moreover, the protrusions 152 may extend through the one or more openings 156 in the exterior surface 128 to contact the kingpin 124 as shown in FIG. 13, for example.

Referring to FIG. 13, a cross-sectional view of the sleeve 126 with the retainer 150 positioned within the recess 154 of the sleeve 126 is shown. The retainer 150 may extend around the exterior surface 128 within the recess 154 of the sleeve 126. For example, the retainer 150 may extend approximately halfway around the exterior surface 128 within the recess 154 as shown in FIG. 13 (in examples, the retainer 150 may extend more than halfway or less than halfway around the exterior surface 128). In examples, the retainer 150 may include two protrusions 152 and the sleeve 126 may include two openings 156 as shown in FIG. 13 (in examples, the retainer 150 may include one protrusion or more than two protrusions and/or the sleeve 126 may include one opening or more than two openings). In examples, the protrusions 152 may be compliant and configured to deflect to allow the kingpin 124 to rotate within the sleeve 126 at a desired time (e.g., during removal or insertion of the kingpin 124). The protrusions 152, for example, may be made of a compliant metal or otherwise may be movable or deformable (e.g., spring biased), to allow for rotation of the kingpin 124. The kingpin 124, for example, may include one or more channels (or flutes) 160 extending along the longitudinal axis of the kingpin 124 for receiving a protrusion 152 and selective engagement with one of the protrusions 152 when the kingpin 124 is rotated within the sleeve 126. The protrusions 152 may engage the one or more channels 160 to further reduce the possibility of undesired rotation of the kingpin 124 relative to the sleeve 126. The protrusions 152 may serve as a detent for selective engagement with the channels 160 of the kingpin 124 upon the kingpin 124 being threaded into the sleeve 126. The protrusions 152 may deflect radially outward to allow for release of the kingpin from the sleeve 126 upon rotation (e.g., unscrewing) of the kingpin 124 relative to the sleeve 126.

The combination of the retainer 150 and the second threaded section 107 may improve retention and stability of the kingpin 124 within the sleeve 126 thereby improving the safety of use of the skateboard 10, for example. For example, both the retainer 150 and the second threaded section 107 may help prevent the kingpin 124 from loosening. Moreover, the second threaded section 107 may prevent lateral movement of the kingpin 124 thereby improving retention and stability of the kingpin 124.

Other configurations may be utilized in examples.

In examples, the use of the retainer 150 may be excluded.

FIGS. 14 and 15 illustrate components of the assembly 122 coupled to the baseplate 80. The shaft 190 is shown to protrude from the baseplate 80 in the top side direction for coupling with bushings and a hanger of the truck. The head 193 is positioned in an “inverted kingpin” configuration. The top end surface 134 of the sleeve 126 may be flush or co-planar with the top side support surface 104 of the baseplate 80 as shown in FIG. 14, in examples. In examples, the top end surface 134 may be recessed or protrude from the top side support surface 104.

FIG. 15 illustrates an underside view of the baseplate 80. A tip of the kingpin 124 is shown to not protrude out of the interior channel 132 of the sleeve 126. In examples, the tip of the kingpin 124 may protrude out of the interior channel 132 of the sleeve 126 (e.g., into the pocket 108 or recess of the baseplate 80).

FIG. 16 illustrates a perspective cross-sectional view of the configuration shown in FIGS. 14 and 15. The exterior surface 128 of the sleeve 126 is shown to engage the sidewall 100 of the aperture 98. The retainer 150 is illustrated within the recess 154 of the sleeve 126, positioned around the exterior surface 128 of the sleeve 126. The sleeve 126 may extend for a portion of the length of the aperture 98 or for the entirety of the length of the aperture 98.

In assembly, the retainer 150 may be placed around the exterior surface 128 of the sleeve 126 within the recess 154 of the sleeve 126. The sleeve 126 may then be inserted into the aperture 98 of the baseplate 80 with a press fit. A machine or tool, for example, may press the sleeve 126 into the aperture 98. In an example in which engagement features (e.g., grooves, ridges, etc.) are utilized, then such engagement features of the sleeve 126 may engage the sidewall 100 upon insertion.

At a desired time, the kingpin 124 may be threaded (or inserted) into and/or through the sleeve 126. The kingpin 124 may engage the threading of the sleeve 126. The kingpin 124 may be in an “inverted kingpin” configuration. In the “inverted kingpin” configuration, the head 193 of the kingpin 124 is positioned with the top side support surface 104 disposed intermediate the head 193 and the deck 12.

In examples, other features may be utilized as desired. For example, a collar insert (e.g., a nyloc insert or other form of insert) may be incorporated to increase friction with the kingpin 124. In examples, the use of the retainer 150 may be excluded. The sleeve 126 may extend to the tapered or curved surface 133. In examples, the sleeve 126 may not extend to the tapered or curved surface 133. In examples, one or more flanges may be incorporated with the sleeve 126. Features disclosed herein in other examples may be incorporated as desired.

Features disclosed in regard to FIGS. 5-16 may be utilized solely or in combination with any other example disclosed herein.

FIGS. 17-19 illustrate examples of variations of the sleeve 126 including different numbers and/or locations of the one or more slots in the walls of the sleeve. FIG. 17 illustrates a bottom end view of a variation of a sleeve 126a having four slots. The sleeve 126a may have the same or similar features of the sleeve 126, such as the first threaded section 105 and the second threaded section 107, for example. A first slot 103a and a second slot 103b opposite the first slot 103a may define and/or be formed along a first plane 119. A third slot 103c and a fourth slot 103d opposite the third slot 103c may define and/or be formed along a second plane 121. The first plane 119 may be parallel to the second plane 121 as shown in FIG. 17. The planes 119, 121 may extend in the longitudinal direction of the sleeve 126 and may be offset from, and on opposite sides of, a center axis of the sleeve 126. A length-wise axis of the one or more slots 103a-d may be parallel to a length-wise axis of the sleeve 126a.

The resulting prongs 115a, 115b, 115c, 115d, may extend axially along the interior channel of the sleeve 126a. Force may be applied to a first prong 115a of the sleeve 126a, a second prong 115b of the sleeve 126a, a third prong 115c of the sleeve 126a, and/or a fourth prong 115d of the sleeve 126a such that the four slots 103a-d compress as discussed herein with regard to the one or more slots 103. For example, the four prongs 115a-d may each be pressed toward a center of the sleeve 126a such that the four prongs 115a-d are deflected radially inward towards the interior channel of the sleeve 126a. In examples, the second prong 115b and the fourth prong 115d may be bent radially inward (as represented by the dashed lines in FIG. 17, for example) such that the four slots 103a-d are not compressed. In alternatives, the first prong 115a and third prong 115c may be bent radially inward (with the slots 103a-d being compressed). In examples, the four prongs 115a-d (or the second prong 115b and the fourth prong 115d) may act as springs that are spring biased towards the kingpin 124 thereby retaining the kingpin 124. In examples, the four prongs 115a-d may be deflected toward the center of the sleeve 126a by being pressed into the aperture 98 and engaging the tapered or curved surface 133 (marked in FIG. 12). In examples, the four prongs 115a-d may bend and remain in place and do not act as springs (e.g., the four prongs 115a-d may not be compliant). The second threaded section of the sleeve 126a may have an oval shape when the sleeve 126a includes the four slots 103a-d and the force is applied to the first prong 115a and the second prong 115b or the third prong 115c and the fourth prong 115d. The second threaded section of the sleeve 126a may have a circular or substantially circular shape when the sleeve 126a includes the four slots 103a-d and the force is applied to the four prongs 115a-d as shown by the arrows in FIG. 17.

FIG. 18 illustrates a bottom end view of a sleeve 126b having four slots. The sleeve 126b may have the features of the sleeve 126, such as the first threaded section 105 and the second threaded section 107, for example. A first slot 103e and a second slot 103g opposite the first slot 103e may define and/or be formed along a first plane 127a. A third slot 103h and a fourth slot 103f opposite the third slot 103h may define and/or be formed along a second plane 127b. The first plane 127a may be perpendicular to the second plane 127b as shown in FIG. 18. Both the first plane 127a and the second plane 127b may pass through a center of the sleeve 126b, in examples. The first plane 127a and second plane 127b may extend in the longitudinal direction of the sleeve 126b. The four slots 103e-h may be equidistant from each other. A length-wise axis of the four slots 103e-h may be parallel to a length-wise axis of the sleeve 126b.

The resulting prongs 125a, 125b, 125c, 125d, may extend axially along the interior channel of the sleeve 126b. Force may be applied to a first prong 125a of the sleeve 126b, a second prong 125b of the sleeve 126b, a third prong 125c of the sleeve 126b, and/or a fourth prong 125d of the sleeve 126b such that the four slots 103e-h compress as discussed herein with regard to the one or more slots 103. For example, the four prongs 125a-d may each be pressed toward the center of the sleeve 126b such that the four prongs 125a-d deflect radially inward (as represented by the dashed lines in FIG. 18, for example). In examples, the four prongs 125a-d may act as springs that are spring biased towards the kingpin 124 thereby retaining the kingpin 124. In examples, the four prongs 125a-d may be bent toward the center of the sleeve 126b by being pressed into the aperture 98 and engaging the tapered or curved surface 133 (marked in FIG. 12). In examples, the four prongs 125a-d may bend and remain in place and do not act as springs (e.g., the four prongs 125a-d may not be compliant). The second threaded section of the sleeve 126b may have a circular or substantially circular shape when the sleeve 126b includes the four slots 103e-h and the force is applied to the four prongs 125a-d as shown by the arrows in FIG. 18.

FIG. 19 illustrates a bottom end view of a sleeve 126c having eight slots. The sleeve 126c may have the features of the sleeve 126, such as the first threaded section 105 and the second threaded section 107, for example. A first slot 103i and a second slot 103m opposite the first slot 103i may define and/or be formed along a first plane 129a. A third slot 103j and a fourth slot 103n opposite the third slot 103j may define and/or be formed along a second plane 129b. A fifth slot 103k and a sixth slot 103o opposite the fifth slot 103k may define and/or be formed along a third plane 129c. A seventh slot 103l and an eighth slot 103p opposite the seventh slot 103l may define and/or be formed along a fourth plane 129d. The first plane 129a may be perpendicular to the third plane 129c as shown in FIG. 19. The second plane 129b may be perpendicular to the fourth plane 129d as shown in FIG. 19. The four planes 129a-d may pass through a center of the sleeve 126c, in examples. The four planes 129a-d may extend in the longitudinal direction of the sleeve 126c. The eight slots 103i-p may be equidistant from each other. A length-wise axis of the eight slots 103i-p may be parallel to a length-wise axis of the sleeve 126c.

The resulting prongs 131a-h, may extend axially along the interior channel of the sleeve 126b. Force may be applied to a first prong 131a of the sleeve 126c, a second prong 131b of the sleeve 126c, a third prong 131c of the sleeve 126c, a fourth prong 131d of the sleeve 126c, a fifth prong 131e of the sleeve 126c, a sixth prong 131f of the sleeve 126c, a seventh prong 131g of the sleeve 126c, and/or an eighth prong 131h of the sleeve 126c such that the eight slots 103i-p compress as discussed herein with regard to the one or more slots 103. For example, the eight prongs 131a-h may each be pressed toward the center of the sleeve 126c such that the eight prongs 131a-h deflect radially inward (as represented by the dashed lines in FIG. 19, for example). In examples, the eight prongs 131a-h may act as springs that are spring biased towards the kingpin 124 thereby retaining the kingpin 124. In examples, the eight prongs 131a-h may be bent toward the center of the sleeve 126c by being pressed into the aperture 98 and engaging the tapered or curved surface 133 (marked in FIG. 12). In examples, the eight prongs 131a-h may bend and remain in place and do not act as springs (e.g., the eight prongs 131a-h may not be compliant). The second threaded section of the sleeve 126c may have a circular or substantially circular shape when the sleeve 126c includes the eight slots 103i-p and the force is applied to the eight prongs 131a-h as shown by the arrows in FIG. 19.

Other configurations may be utilized in examples. Features disclosed in regard to FIGS. 5-19 may be utilized solely or in combination with any other example disclosed herein. For example, the sleeve 126 may be configured to have the same number of slots and prongs of any of the sleeves of FIGS. 11 and 17-19.

FIG. 20 illustrates a variation in which an assembly 222 may include the kingpin 124 and/or a sleeve 226. The assembly 222 may include the retainer 150 in examples. The sleeve 226 may include the features of the sleeve 126 unless stated otherwise.

The sleeve 226 may extend within the aperture 98, and the exterior surface 228 of the sleeve 226 may engage the sidewall 100 of the baseplate 80 in a similar manner as discussed herein regarding the sleeve 126. The interior surface 230 of the sleeve 226 may include threading 246 and the interior channel 232 may be configured to receive the kingpin 124 in a similar manner as discussed herein regarding the sleeve 126. The sleeve 226 may include the recess 254 for receiving the retainer 150 in a similar manner as discussed herein regarding the sleeve 126. In examples, the assembly 222 may not include the retainer 150 and/or the recess 254.

FIG. 21 illustrates an end view of the sleeve 226 from the top (or first) end surface 234 of the sleeve 226. The sleeve 226 may include four slots (or cutouts) 203a-d in the wall 201 (marked in FIG. 22) of the sleeve 226 defining two prongs 211, 213 of the sleeve 226. The slots 203a-d may extend from the top end surface 234 of the sleeve 226 down the wall 201 for a length. A first slot 203a and a second slot 203b opposite the first slot 203a may define and/or be formed along a first plane 223a. A third slot 203c and a fourth slot 203d opposite the third slot 203c may define and/or be formed along a second plane 223b. The first plane 223a may be parallel to the second plane 223b as shown in FIG. 21. The planes 223a, 223b may extend in the longitudinal direction of the sleeve 226 and may be offset from, and on opposite sides of, a center axis of the sleeve 226. A length-wise axis of the slots 203a-d may be parallel to a length-wise axis of the sleeve 226. Other shapes or configurations of slots and/or prongs may be utilized in examples.

The resulting prongs 211, 213, may extend axially along the interior channel of the sleeve 226. Force may be applied to a first prong 211 of the sleeve 226 and a second prong 213 of the sleeve 226 as shown by the arrows in FIG. 21, for example. The force may be applied such that the four slots 203a-d do not compress but the two prongs 211, 213 are each pressed toward the center of the sleeve 226 and deflect radially inward (as represented by the dashed lines in FIG. 21, for example) towards the interior channel 232. The two bent prongs 211, 213 may act as springs that are spring biased towards the kingpin 124 thereby retaining the kingpin 124.

FIG. 22A is a cross-sectional view of the sleeve 226 within the aperture 98 of the baseplate 80. The two bent prongs 211, 213 may form the second threaded section 207 of the sleeve 226. The two bent prongs 211, 213 may cause the second threaded section 207 to have a smaller inside diameter than the first threaded section 205 of the sleeve 226. The second threaded section 207 may have a second retaining force that is greater than a first retaining force of the first threaded section 205 of the sleeve 226. The spring bias of the two bent prongs 211, 213 may increase the amount of frictional force between the kingpin 124 and the second threaded section 207 thereby increasing the second retaining force. A lower coefficient of friction and/or frictional force may exist between the kingpin 124 and the first threaded section 205 when the kingpin 124 is threaded into and/or through the first threaded section 205 than between the kingpin 124 and the second threaded section 207 when the kingpin 124 is threaded into and/or through the second threaded section 207. Improved securement and retaining force may result.

The bent profile of the two prongs 211, 213 may decrease and/or alter one or more characteristics of the threading of the second threaded section 207 (e.g., thread pitch, thread angle, thread height, distance, etc.) compared to the first threaded section 205 thereby also increasing the second retaining force of the second threaded section 207. By altering the one or more characteristics of the threading of the second threaded section 207, the frictional force between the kingpin 124 and the second threaded section 207 may be increased thereby increasing the second retaining force.

The first threaded section 205 of the sleeve 226 may be positioned below the second threaded section 207 of the sleeve 226 such that when the kingpin 124 is threaded into and/or through the sleeve 226, the kingpin 124 is threaded into the second threaded section 207 and is subsequently threaded into the first threaded section 205.

As shown in FIG. 22A, in examples, the top surfaces 209 of the two prongs 211, 213 may not be coplanar with the top end surface 234 of the sleeve 226. The top surfaces 209 of the two prongs 211, 213 may be positioned below the top end surface 234 of the sleeve 226 such that the kingpin 124 may first thread into one or more threads of the interior surface 230 of the sleeve 226 before engaging the two prongs 211, 213. This may ensure the kingpin 124 is properly aligned with the threading of the sleeve 226 before engaging the two prongs 211, 213 of the sleeve 226. In examples, a tip of the kingpin 124 may be tapered to improve the ease of initially threading the kingpin 124 into the sleeve 226.

FIG. 22B illustrates the kingpin 124 having been threaded into the sleeve 226. The prongs 211, 213 may deflect radially outward from the interior channel 232 when the kingpin 124 is threaded into the second threaded section 207. The prongs 211, 213 may deflect radially inward again when the kingpin 124 is unscrewed from the sleeve 226. Other configurations may be utilized in examples.

Features disclosed in regard to FIGS. 20-22 may be utilized solely or in combination with any other example disclosed herein.

FIG. 23 illustrates a variation in which an assembly 322 may include the kingpin 124 and/or a sleeve 326. The assembly 322 may include the retainer 150 in examples. The sleeve 326 may include the features of the sleeve 126 unless stated otherwise.

The sleeve 326 may extend within the aperture 98, and the exterior surface 328 of the sleeve 326 may engage the sidewall 100 of the baseplate 80 in a similar manner as discussed herein regarding the sleeve 126. The interior surface 330 of the sleeve 326 may include threading 346 and the interior channel 332 may be configured to receive the kingpin 124 in a similar manner as discussed herein regarding the sleeve 126. The sleeve 326 may include the recess 354 for receiving the retainer 150 in a similar manner as discussed herein regarding the sleeve 126. In examples, the assembly 322 may not include the retainer 150 and/or the recess 354.

FIG. 24 illustrates a perspective end view of the sleeve 326 from the bottom (or second) end surface 336 of the sleeve 326. The sleeve 326 may include one or more slots (or cutouts) 303 in the wall 301 (marked in FIG. 25) of the sleeve 326. The one or more slots 303 may form or define a plurality of prongs of the sleeve 326, in examples. The sleeve 326 may include two slots 303 and two prongs 311, 313 as shown in FIG. 24, for example (in examples, the sleeve 326 may include one slot and one prong or more than two slots and two prongs). The one or more slots 303 may extend from the bottom end surface 336 of the sleeve 326 up the wall 301 for a length. The prongs 311 may extend axially along the interior channel 332 of the sleeve 326.

The one or more slots 303 may define and/or be formed along the same plane, in examples. In examples, the one or more slots 303 may define and/or be formed along a plurality of planes with two or more planes of the plurality of planes being perpendicular or parallel to each other. A length-wise axis of the one or more slots 303 may be parallel to a length-wise axis of the sleeve 326. The slots 303 may extend in one or more planes that may extend in the longitudinal direction of the sleeve 326. Other shapes or configurations of slots and/or prongs may be utilized in examples.

FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional side view of the sleeve 326 within the aperture 98 of the baseplate 80. The one or more prongs 311, 313 may include a first prong 311 and a second prong 313. The two prongs 311, 313 may form and/or be included in the second threaded section 307 of the sleeve 326. The threading 315 of the second threaded section 307 may be positioned on the interior surface of the two prongs 311, 313, in examples. The second threaded section 307 may have different threading 315 than threading 302 of the first threaded section 305 such that the threading 346 (marked in FIG. 23) of the entirety of the sleeve 326 is nonuniform. The threading 315 of the second threaded section 307 may have one or more characteristics (e.g., pitch, thread angle, thread height, diameter, etc.) that are different than the first threaded section 305 thereby increasing the second retaining force of the second threaded section 307. For example, the threading 302 of the first threaded section 305 may be configured to have the same thread profile (or thread form) as the threading of the kingpin 124 such that the kingpin 124 may be threaded into the first threaded section 305 (e.g., with minimal or relatively low friction). The threading 315 of the second threaded section 307 may be configured to have a different thread profile (or thread form) as the kingpin 124 and the first threaded section 305 such that the coefficient of friction and/or the frictional force between the kingpin 124 and the second threaded section 307 is greater than the coefficient of friction and/or the frictional force between the kingpin 124 and the first threaded section 305. Accordingly, the second threaded section 307 may have a second retaining force that is greater than a first retaining force of the first threaded section 305 of the sleeve 326. In examples, the threading 315 of the second threaded section 307 may have a thread profile that is slightly offset in thread profile from the threading 148 of the kingpin 124 (e.g., a narrower thread profile such as a narrower thread spacing or offset thread pitch than the threading 148 of the kingpin 124). The variation in thread profile of the second threaded section 307 may increase the force or torque required to rotate the kingpin 124 through the second threaded section 307 relative to the first threaded section 305.

FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional side view of the sleeve 326 within the aperture 98 of the baseplate 80. As shown by FIG. 26, when the kingpin 124 is threaded through the sleeve 326 and into the second threaded section 307, the prongs 311, 313 may be pushed radially outward (e.g., in the direction as shown by the arrows 317 in FIG. 26). The mismatch between the threading of the kingpin 124 and the threading 315 of the second threaded section 307 may cause the prongs 311, 313 to be pushed radially outward within the aperture 98. The prongs 311, 313 may deflect radially outward from the interior channel 332 when the kingpin 124 is threaded into the second threaded section 307. A spring bias may allow the prongs 311, 313 to return to a position as shown in FIG. 25 upon the kingpin 124 being unscrewed from the sleeve 326.

In examples, the threading 315 of the second threaded section 307 may have one or more characteristics that are similar to the threading of the kingpin 124 but with at least one characteristic that is different, for example. This may allow the kingpin 124 to partially interface with the threading 315 of the second threaded section 307 but still not be a match as with the first threaded section 305, for example. This partial fit may reduce wear on the kingpin 124 and/or the second threaded section 307 while still causing a greater coefficient of friction and/or a greater frictional force between the kingpin 124 and the second threaded section 307 than the first threaded section 305, thereby increasing the second retaining force.

As shown in FIG. 26, the first threaded section 305 of the sleeve 326 may be positioned above the second threaded section 307 of the sleeve 326 such that when the kingpin 124 is threaded into and/or through the sleeve 326, the kingpin 124 is threaded into the first threaded section 305 and is subsequently threaded into the second threaded section 307. This may ensure that the kingpin 124 is properly aligned with the interior channel 332 (marked in FIG. 23) of the sleeve 326 before engaging the second threaded section 307.

In examples, an intermediate section 306 of the interior surface 330 may be positioned between the first threaded section 305 and the second threaded section 307. The intermediate section 306 may not include threading, in examples. The intermediate section 306 may comprise a recess within the interior surface 330 of the sleeve 326. The intermediate section 306, for example, may increase the compliance of the prongs 311, 313 by thinning a portion of the wall 301. The intermediate section 306 may be thinner than an adjacent section 309. As shown in FIG. 26, the outside diameter of the sleeve 326 at the prongs 311, 313 may be less than the inside diameter of the sidewall 100 such that the prongs 311, 313 may have space when the prongs 311, 313 are pushed radially outward by the kingpin 124. In examples, the outside diameter of the sleeve 326 may be configured such that the prongs 311, 313 may contact the sidewall 100 if the kingpin 124 is threaded a certain depth into the sleeve 326. This may further increase the second retaining force, in examples. In examples, the outside diameter of the sleeve 326 may be configured such that the prongs 311, 313 may not contact the sidewall 100.

Other configurations may be utilized in examples. Features disclosed in regard to FIGS. 23-26 may be utilized solely or in combination with any other example disclosed herein.

FIG. 27 illustrates a variation in which an assembly 422 may include the kingpin 124 and/or a sleeve 426. The assembly 422 may include the retainer 150 in examples. The sleeve 426 may include the features of the sleeve 126 unless stated otherwise.

The sleeve 426 may extend within the aperture 98, and the exterior surface 428 of the sleeve 426 may engage the sidewall 100 of the baseplate 80 in a similar manner as discussed herein regarding the sleeve 126. The interior surface 430 of the sleeve 426 may include threading 446 and the interior channel 432 may be configured to receive the kingpin 124 in a similar manner as discussed herein regarding the sleeve 126. The sleeve 426 may include the recess 454 for receiving the retainer 150 in a similar manner as discussed herein regarding the sleeve 126. In examples, the assembly 422 may not include the retainer 150 and/or the recess 454.

FIG. 28 illustrates a side view of the sleeve 426. The sleeve 426 may include slots (or cutouts) 403a, 403b in the wall 401 (marked in FIG. 29) of the sleeve 426, the slots including a first slot 403a and a second slot 403b. The slots 403a, 403b may extend from the exterior surface 428 radially inwardly for a length. In examples, the slots 403a, 403b may be perpendicular to the interior channel 432 (marked in FIG. 27) of the sleeve 426. In examples, a length-wise axis of the slots 403a, 403b may be perpendicular to the length-wise axis of the sleeve 426. The slots 403a, 403b may be formed and/or extend along the same plane. In examples, the slots 403a, 403b may be mirrored versions of each other as shown in FIG. 28. The slots 403a, 403b may extend circumferentially about the sleeve 426 for portions of the outer circumference of the sleeve 426.

The slots 403a, 403b may form and/or define a first connecting portion 413a and a second connecting portion 413b (marked in FIG. 29). The connecting portions 413a, 413b may be portions of the wall 401 that connect a lower portion 411 of the sleeve 426 to an upper portion 402 of the sleeve 426. The connecting portions 413a, 413b may separate the two slots 403a, 403b such that side surfaces 406 of the connecting portions 413a, 413b may form ends of the slots 403a, 403b. The connecting portions 413a, 413b may be located on opposite sides of the sleeve 426 such that the first connecting portion 413a is opposite the second connecting portion 413b. Other shapes or configurations of slots and/or connecting portions may be utilized in examples.

Force may be applied to the lower portion 411 of the sleeve 426 such that the connecting portions 413a, 413b bend and the lower portion 411 pivots about the connecting portions 413a, 413b (e.g., in the direction shown by the arrows 419 in FIG. 28 (or opposite the arrows)). For example, force may be applied to the bottom end surface 436 of the sleeve 426 on either of two sides 450, 452 of the lower portion 411 with the two sides 450, 452 being opposite of each other. The force may be applied such that one of the two slots 403a, 403b compresses and the other of the two slots 403a, 403b expands (as represented by the dashed lines in FIG. 28, for example). For example, the force may be applied such that the bottom end surface 436 is no longer parallel with the top end surface 434 as shown in FIG. 29.

FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional side view of the sleeve 426 within the aperture 98 of the baseplate 80. FIG. 29 illustrates the first slot 403a being compressed and the second slot 403b expanded, with the lower portion 411 canted or angled relative to the upper portion 402. The bottom end surface 436 of the lower portion 411 is canted relative to the top end surface 434 of the upper portion 402. The lower portion 411 may form the second threaded section 407 of the sleeve 426. The second threaded section 407 may have a second retaining force that is greater than a first retaining force of the first threaded section 405 of the sleeve 426. The canted lower portion 411 may be spring biased towards the kingpin 124 (e.g., axially and/or radially) when the kingpin 124 is threaded into and/or through the second threaded section 407. The spring bias of the canted lower portion 411 may increase the coefficient of friction and/or the amount of frictional force between the kingpin 124 and the second threaded section 407 thereby increasing the second retaining force.

For example, as the kingpin 124 is threaded into and/or through the canted lower portion 411, the kingpin 124 may straighten the lower portion 411 such that the bottom end surface 436 is deflected towards being parallel to the top end surface 434, as shown in FIG. 30, for example. The lower portion 411 is deflected towards extending in a parallel plane with the upper portion 402 (e.g., reducing the angle shown in FIG. 29 for example). As shown by the arrows 421 in FIG. 30, as the straightened lower portion 411 attempts to return to its canted position, the lower portion 411 may exert an axial and/or radial force on the kingpin 124 thereby increasing the second retaining force.

In examples, an outside diameter of the lower portion 411 may be less than an outside diameter of the upper portion 402 to allow more room for the lower portion 411 to pivot and/or cant within the aperture 98 of the baseplate 80.

The first threaded section 405 of the sleeve 426 may be positioned above the second threaded section 407 of the sleeve 426 such that when the kingpin 124 is threaded into and/or through the sleeve 426, the kingpin 124 is threaded into the first threaded section 405 and is subsequently threaded into the second threaded section 407. This may ensure the kingpin 124 is properly aligned with the threading 446 (marked in FIG. 27) of the sleeve 426 before engaging the second threaded section 407.

Other configurations may be utilized in examples. Features disclosed in regard to FIGS. 27-30 may be utilized solely or in combination with any other example disclosed herein.

FIG. 31 illustrates a variation in which an assembly 522 may include the kingpin 124 and/or a sleeve 526. The assembly 522 may include the retainer 150 in examples. The sleeve 526 may include the features of the sleeve 126 unless stated otherwise.

The sleeve 526 may extend within the aperture 98, and the exterior surface 528 of the sleeve 526 may engage the sidewall 100 of the baseplate 80 in a similar manner as discussed herein regarding the sleeve 126. The interior surface 530 of the sleeve 526 may include threading 546 and the interior channel 532 may be configured to receive the kingpin 124 in a similar manner as discussed herein regarding the sleeve 126. The sleeve 526 may include the recess 554 for receiving the retainer 150 in a similar manner as discussed herein regarding the sleeve 126. In examples, the assembly 522 may not include the retainer 150 and/or the recess 554.

FIG. 32 illustrates a side view of the sleeve 526. The sleeve 526 may include one slot (or cutout) 503 in the wall 501 (marked in FIG. 33) of the sleeve 526. The slot 503 may extend from the exterior surface 528 radially inwardly for a length. In examples, the slot 503 may be perpendicular to the interior channel 532 (marked in FIG. 31) of the sleeve 526. In examples, a length-wise or width-wise axis of the slot 503 may be perpendicular to the length-wise axis of the sleeve 526. The slot 503 may extend circumferentially about an outer circumference of the sleeve 526. The slot 503 may form and/or define a connecting portion 513. The connecting portion 513 may be a portion of the wall 501 that connects a lower portion 511 of the sleeve 526 to an upper portion 502 of the sleeve 526. The connecting portion 513 may have side surfaces 506 that may form ends of the slot 503. Other shapes or configurations of a slot and/or a connecting portion may be utilized in examples.

Force may be applied to the lower portion 511 of the sleeve 526 such that the connecting portion 513 bends and the lower portion 511 pivots about the connecting portion 513 (e.g., in the direction shown by the arrow 515 in FIG. 32). For example, force may be applied to the bottom end surface 536 of the sleeve 526 on a first side 550 of the bottom end surface 536 that is opposite to a second side 552 of the bottom end surface 536. The connecting portion 513 may be positioned proximate to the second side 552, in examples. The force may be applied such that the slot 503 compresses (as represented by the dashed lines in FIG. 32, for example). For example, the force may be applied such that the bottom end surface 536 is no longer parallel with the top end surface 534 as shown in FIG. 33. The bottom end surface 536 of the lower portion 511 may be canted or angled relative to the top end surface 534.

In examples, a thickness 504 of the connecting portion 513 of the wall 501 may be thinner than an adjacent portion 519 of the wall 501 as shown in FIG. 33, for example. The relative thinness of the connecting portion 513 may allow the connecting portion 513 to bend such that the lower portion 511 may pivot about the connecting portion 513. Moreover, a width or length 508 (marked in FIG. 31) of the connecting portion 513 may be less than or equal to half of the circumference of the sleeve 526 to allow the connecting portion 513 to bend such that the lower portion 511 may pivot about the connecting portion 513.

FIG. 33 is a cross-sectional side view of the sleeve 526 within the aperture 98 of the baseplate 80. FIG. 33 illustrates the slot 503 having been compressed, with the lower portion 511 canted or angled relative to the upper portion 502. The lower portion 511 may form the second threaded section 507 of the sleeve 526. The second threaded section 507 may have a second retaining force that is greater than a first retaining force of the first threaded section 505 of the sleeve 526. The canted lower portion 511 may be spring biased towards the kingpin 124 (e.g., axially and/or radially) when the kingpin 124 is threaded into and/or through the second threaded section 507. The spring bias of the canted lower portion 511 may increase the coefficient of friction and/or the amount of frictional force between the kingpin 124 and the second threaded section 507 thereby increasing the second retaining force.

For example, as the kingpin 124 is threaded into and/or through the canted lower portion 511, the kingpin 124 may straighten the lower portion 511 such that the bottom end surface 536 deflects towards being parallel with the top end surface 534, as shown in FIG. 34, for example. The lower portion 511 deflects towards extending in a parallel plane with the upper portion 502. As shown by the arrow 517 in FIG. 34, as the straightened lower portion 511 attempts to return to its canted position, the lower portion 511 may exert an axial and/or radial force on the kingpin 124 thereby increasing the second retaining force.

In examples, an outside diameter of the lower portion 511 may be less than an outside diameter of the upper portion 502 to allow more room for the lower portion 511 to pivot and/or cant within the aperture 98 of the baseplate 80.

The first threaded section 505 of the sleeve 526 may be positioned above the second threaded section 507 of the sleeve 526 such that when the kingpin 124 is threaded into and/or through the sleeve 526, the kingpin 124 is threaded into the first threaded section 505 and is subsequently threaded into the second threaded section 507. This may ensure the kingpin 124 is properly aligned with the threading 546 (marked in FIG. 31) of the sleeve 526 before engaging the second threaded section 507.

Other configurations may be utilized in examples. Features disclosed in regard to FIGS. 31-34 may be utilized solely or in combination with any other example disclosed herein.

In various examples, a skateboard such as the skateboard 10 shown in and described herein with respect to FIG. 1 may include any of the aforementioned skateboard trucks and their various components described herein.

In examples, the sleeves disclosed herein may be utilized to produce enhanced securement of a kingpin within the sleeve. The use of multiple threaded sections may provide a variety of benefits. For example, a second threaded section having a second retaining force that is greater than a first retaining force of a first threaded section may provide for increased securement (e.g., a reduction of slack or longitudinal or lateral movement of the kingpin upon being threaded to the sleeve). Further, the first retaining section may be utilized to reduce overall wear on the kingpin, and may be utilized to align the threading of the kingpin with the sleeve prior to or after engagement with the second threaded section having the second retaining force. Improved safety and securement of the skateboard may result.

In addition, a user tightening the kingpin into the sleeve (e.g., with a hex wrench or other tool) may feel the kingpin more easily rotate through the first threaded section, and then may feel the increased force or torque required to rotate through the second threaded section. The user may beneficially feel the increased strength of retention upon tightening the kingpin through the second threaded section. The user may be able to identify that the kingpin is now being retained with increased strength. The user may be able to produce more minute or precise rotation of the kingpin to more precisely identify how tightly the kingpin is being pressed towards the baseplate (and the overall force applied to the bushings). More precise control of tightening of the kingpin may result. Further, in examples, the use of the retainer with the channels 160 may allow a user to identify a number of rotations (e.g., via a number of audible or tactile “clicks” or degrees of rotation in which the retainer engages the channels 160) that are being produced to provide an incremental or graduated tightness of the kingpin.

Further, in examples, use of a separate fastener on the opposite side of the sleeve from the kingpin head may be excluded. A reduction in overall parts may result. Other benefits may result.

A sleeve disclosed herein may be formed of a high-strength material (such as high-grade steel with HRC hardness 28-45). Sleeves disclosed herein may be press-fit into an aperture (e.g., a stepped aperture or a non-stepped aperture) on a top side of the truck baseplate. A sleeve may extend the full length of the aperture in the baseplate, or only a part of that length. The housing thus formed with the sleeve may provide superior support to the kingpin compared to prior art constructions-holding it in more precise alignment, with minimal to no lateral movement, in an aperture less prone to wear and ovalization. Optionally with engagement features (e.g., knurls, flutes, or others) on the exterior diameter, a high-strength sleeve can also be more strongly press-fit inside the aperture, since it will not deform under high pressure.

Examples may include a sleeve made of high-strength material and having a length equal to, or less than, that of the baseplate aperture with or without outer surface engagement features (e.g., knurls/flutes) that strengthen the press-fit inside the baseplate aperture with interior surface threading (full or partial length of the sleeve) that fastens to exterior surface threading of a kingpin.

Methods disclosed herein may comprise assembling all or a portion of any of the trucks or skateboards or other components disclosed herein. Methods disclosed herein may comprise utilization of all or a portion of any of the trucks or skateboards or other components disclosed herein.

Methods may include inserting one or more of the sleeves or other components disclosed herein into an aperture of a baseplate. A variety of methods (e.g., manual insertion, machine insertion, press insertion) may be utilized as desired. A kingpin may be threaded (or inserted) into the channel of the sleeve and into and/or through the first threaded section and the second threaded section of the sleeve. Other components of a truck (e.g., bushings, arms, hanger, axle) may be assembled as desired. The trucks may be attached to a skateboard deck and other finishing processes may be applied.

In examples, the methods may further include deflecting one or more prongs of the sleeve radially inward (e.g., toward a center of the sleeve) before inserting the sleeve into the aperture of the baseplate.

In examples, the methods may further include deflecting one or more prongs of the sleeve radially inward (e.g., toward a center of the sleeve) by inserting the sleeve into the aperture of the baseplate until a bottom end surface or a transition portion of the sleeve engages a tapered or curved surface of the aperture that is proximate a lower or bottom end of the aperture.

In examples, the methods may further include bending a connecting portion of the sleeve such that a lower portion of the sleeve is canted relative to an upper portion of the sleeve.

In examples, the methods may further include inserting a retainer clip for engaging the kingpin within a recess of the sleeve.

In examples, the sleeves disclosed herein may be pre-inserted into an aperture of a baseplate and may be configured to be non-removable by a user. The sleeves may be securely fixed within the aperture. Further, the sleeves may lack a hex engagement surface, as the sleeves may be configured to be non-removable from the aperture of the baseplate. A smooth outer surface of the sleeves, or a surface having engagement features may be provided. Various other configurations may be utilized.

The assemblies and sleeves disclosed herein may be utilized with skateboards, or may be utilized with other forms of sporting boards or sports apparatuses or wheeled sporting apparatuses. In examples, the assemblies and sleeves may be utilized with skate boots (e.g., roller skates) or other forms of wheeled sporting apparatuses.

For purposes of this description, certain aspects, advantages, and novel features of the examples of this disclosure are described herein. The disclosed methods, apparatuses, and systems should not be construed as limiting in any way. Instead, the present disclosure is directed toward all novel and nonobvious features and aspects of the various disclosed examples, alone and in various combinations and sub-combinations with one another. The methods, apparatuses, and systems are not limited to any specific aspect or feature or combination thereof, nor do the disclosed examples require that any one or more specific advantages be present or problems be solved. Features, elements, or components of one example can be combined into other examples herein.

Certain features that are described in this disclosure in the context of separate implementations can also be implemented in combination in a single implementation. Conversely, various features that are described in the context of a single implementation can also be implemented in multiple implementations separately or in any suitable subcombination. Moreover, although features may be described above as acting in certain combinations, one or more features from a claimed combination can, in some cases, be excised from the combination, and the combination may be claimed as any subcombination or variation of any subcombination.

Moreover, while methods may be depicted in the drawings or described in the specification in a particular order, such methods need not be performed in the particular order shown or in sequential order, and that all methods need not be performed, to achieve desirable results. Other methods that are not depicted or described can be incorporated in the example methods and processes. For example, one or more additional methods can be performed before, after, simultaneously, or between any of the described methods. Further, the methods may be rearranged or reordered in other implementations. Also, the separation of various system components in the implementations described above should not be understood as requiring such separation in all implementations, and it should be understood that the described components and systems can generally be integrated together in a single product or packaged into multiple products. Additionally, other implementations are within the scope of this disclosure.

Conditional language, such as “can,” “could,” “might,” or “may,” unless specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain examples include or do not include, certain features, elements, and/or steps. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements, and/or steps are in any way required for one or more examples.

Conjunctive language such as the phrase “at least one of X, Y, and Z,” unless specifically stated otherwise, is otherwise understood with the context as used in general to convey that an item, term, etc. may be either X, Y, or Z. Thus, such conjunctive language is not generally intended to imply that certain examples require the presence of at least one of X, at least one of Y, and at least one of Z.

Language of degree used herein, such as the terms “approximately,” “about,” “generally,” and “substantially” as used herein represent a value, amount, or characteristic close to the stated value, amount, or characteristic that still performs a desired function or achieves a desired result. For example, the terms “approximately,” “about,” “generally,” and “substantially” may refer to an amount that is within less than or equal to 10% of, within less than or equal to 5% of, within less than or equal to 1 % of, within less than or equal to 0.1% of, and within less than or equal to 0.01% of the stated amount. If the stated amount is 0 (e.g., none, having no), the above recited ranges can be specific ranges, and not within a particular % of the value. For example, within less than or equal to 10 wt./vol. % of, within less than or equal to 5 wt./vol. % of, within less than or equal to 1 wt./vol. % of, within less than or equal to 0.1 wt./vol. % of, and within less than or equal to 0.01 wt./vol. % of the stated amount.

Some examples have been described in connection with the accompanying drawings. Components can be added, removed, and/or rearranged. Further, the disclosure herein of any particular feature, aspect, method, property, characteristic, quality, attribute, element, or the like in connection with various examples can be used in all other examples set forth herein. Additionally, it will be recognized that any methods described herein may be practiced using any device suitable for performing the recited steps.

While a number of examples and variations thereof have been described in detail, other modifications and methods of using the same will be apparent to those of skill in the art. Accordingly, it should be understood that various applications, modifications, materials, and substitutions can be made of equivalents without departing from the unique and inventive disclosure herein or the scope of the claims.

While various embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, it should be understood that they have been presented by way of example only, and not limitation. It will be apparent to persons skilled in the relevant art that various changes in form and detail can be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Thus, the breadth and scope of the present disclosure should not be limited by any of the above-described example embodiments but should be defined only in accordance with the following claims and their equivalents. The foregoing description has been presented for the purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present disclosure to the precise form disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching. Further, it should be noted that any or all of the aforementioned alternate implementations may be used in any combination desired to form additional hybrid implementations of the present disclosure. For example, any of the functionality described with respect to a particular device or component may be performed by another device or component. Further, while specific device characteristics have been described, embodiments of the disclosure may relate to numerous other device characteristics. Further, although embodiments have been described in language specific to structural features and/or methodological acts, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described. Rather, the specific features and acts are disclosed as illustrative forms of implementing the embodiments. Conditional language, such as, among others, “can,” “could,” “might,” or “may,” unless specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain embodiments could include, while other embodiments may not include, certain features, elements, and/or steps. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements, and/or steps are in any way required for one or more embodiments, as will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art with the benefit of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A skateboard truck, comprising:

a kingpin;

a baseplate configured to be attached to a skateboard deck, the baseplate including an aperture having a sidewall bounding an interior of the aperture; and

a sleeve configured to extend within the aperture and including: an interior channel for receiving the kingpin, and an interior surface facing the interior channel, the interior surface having: a first threaded section for engaging the kingpin and having a first retaining force, and a second threaded section for engaging the kingpin and having a second retaining force that is greater than the first retaining force.

2. (canceled)

3. (canceled)

4. The skateboard truck of claim 1, wherein the second threaded section has a smaller inside diameter than the first threaded section.

5. The skateboard truck of claim 1, wherein the second threaded section includes one or more slots within a wall of the sleeve.

6. (canceled)

7. (canceled)

8. The skateboard truck of claim 5, wherein the one or more slots extend from an exterior surface of the sleeve radially inwardly.

9. The skateboard truck of claim 5, wherein a length-wise axis of the one or more slots is parallel to a length-wise axis of the sleeve.

10. The skateboard truck of claim 5, wherein a length-wise axis of the one or more slots is perpendicular to a length-wise axis of the sleeve.

11. (canceled)

12. (canceled)

13. The skateboard truck of claim 1, wherein the second threaded section further includes one or more prongs.

14. (canceled)

15. (canceled)

16. The skateboard truck of claim 13, wherein the one or more prongs are configured to be spring biased toward the kingpin when the kingpin is threaded into the second threaded section.

17. (canceled)

18. (canceled)

19. The skateboard truck of claim 1, wherein the first threaded section and the second threaded section are arranged positionally such that the kingpin threads into the first threaded section and subsequently threads into the second threaded section.

20. The skateboard truck of claim 1, wherein the first threaded section and the second threaded section are arranged positionally such that the kingpin threads into the second threaded section and subsequently threads into the first threaded section.

21. The skateboard truck of claim 1, wherein the second threaded section is configured such that a coefficient of friction and/or a frictional force is greater between the second threaded section and the kingpin than between the first threaded section and the kingpin.

22. The skateboard truck of claim 1, wherein the second threaded section has different threading than the first threaded section.

23. (canceled)

24. The skateboard truck of claim 1, wherein the interior surface further includes an intermediate section between the first threaded section and the second threaded section.

25. The skateboard truck of claim 24, wherein the intermediate section is not threaded.

26. (canceled)

27. The skateboard truck of claim 1, wherein:

the sleeve includes an upper portion and a lower portion; and

the lower portion is connected to the upper portion by a connecting portion of a wall of the sleeve.

28. (canceled)

29. The skateboard truck of claim 27, wherein the lower portion is configured to be canted relative to the upper portion.

30. (canceled)

31. (canceled)

32. The skateboard truck of claim 1, wherein the baseplate includes an underside support surface for facing towards the skateboard deck and a top side support surface that is opposite the underside support surface, and the aperture extends from the underside support surface to the top side support surface.

33. (canceled)

34. (canceled)

35. A skateboard comprising:

a skateboard deck;

a pair of skateboard trucks coupled to the skateboard deck, each truck configured with: a kingpin, a baseplate attached to the skateboard deck, the baseplate including an aperture, the aperture including a sidewall bounding an interior of the aperture that receives the kingpin, a sleeve extending within the aperture and including: an interior channel for receiving the kingpin, and an interior surface facing the interior channel, the interior surface having: a first threaded section for engaging the kingpin and having a first retaining force, and a second threaded section for engaging the kingpin and having a second retaining force that is greater than the first retaining force, and a hanger with an axle supported by the baseplate; and

a set of wheels coupled to each of the pair of skateboard trucks via each axle.

36. (canceled)

37. (canceled)

38. The skateboard of claim 35, wherein the second threaded section has a smaller inside diameter than the first threaded section.

39.-68. (canceled)

69. A method of assembling at least a portion of a skateboard truck or a skateboard, the method comprising:

providing a baseplate configured to be attached to a skateboard deck, the baseplate including an aperture, the aperture including a sidewall bounding an interior of the aperture for receiving a kingpin; and

inserting a sleeve within the aperture, the sleeve including an interior channel for receiving the kingpin, and an interior surface facing the interior channel, the interior surface having: a first threaded section for engaging the kingpin and having a first retaining force, and a second threaded section for engaging the kingpin and having a second retaining force that is greater than the first retaining force.

70.-103. (canceled)