Skiing Patents (Class 434/253)
  • Publication number: 20090111078
    Abstract: An assembly for the practice of a gliding, rolling, or walking sport, such as snowboarding, skateboarding, or a snowshoeing, for example, the assembly including a device for receiving a foot or a boot, as well as a board, the receiving device including a lateral longitudinal portion that extends from a first end to a second end, as well as a medial longitudinal portion that extends from a first end to a second end, the longitudinal portions being provided to be fixed to the board. The lateral longitudinal portion has a first slot toward the first end, as well as a second slot toward the second end; the medial longitudinal portion has a first slot toward the first end, as well as a second slot toward the second end, the slots being provided for the passage of members for fixing the receiving device to the board, each member being provided to cooperate with the board.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2008
    Publication date: April 30, 2009
    Applicant: SALOMON S.A.S.
    Inventor: Henri Rancon
  • Patent number: 7470219
    Abstract: A training apparatus configured for skating-type sports whereon a user can perform training, exercising, strengthening and conditioning while wearing footgear designed for use in skating-type sports. The training apparatus comprises a pair of interconnected opposed matching elongate platforms extending backward and away from each other preferably at an angle equal to or less than 90°. Each platform is provided with an abrasion-resistant exercise surface assembly configured to slidingly communicate with and to controllably engage and disengage a user's footgear. Each platform is provided with a controllably pivotable and lockable foot stop assembly. The training apparatus is provided with an electronic device configured to measure, monitor, record and report at least one of a user's vital signs and a physical performance criterion associated with skating-type motions and activities. The training apparatus is optionally provided with a vertically adjustable knee brace apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Inventor: Cadmar Larson
  • Publication number: 20080293023
    Abstract: Systems and methods of providing sports instruction are disclosed. In accordance with one aspect of the invention, the method includes the steps of each of a plurality of instructors entering a name and one or more credentials into a server based data storage unit and each of the plurality of students selecting one of the plurality of instructors based on the one or more credentials. At a server, one or more uploaded files are received from each of the plurality of students and they are stored in the data storage unit. A selected one of the plurality of instructors reviews the uploaded files and provides instruction based on the uploaded files. The students can rate the instructors based on their experience. Other aspects of online sports instruction are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 26, 2007
    Publication date: November 27, 2008
    Inventors: Glen M. Diehl, John F. Lynch, Daniel Bastone
  • Publication number: 20080174089
    Abstract: An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for a collapsing approach ski for maneuvering over terrain in a climbing and sliding fashion, with a traction component operative below the sliding surface on the underside of the ski to facilitate climbing uphill without substantially interfering with sliding downhill. It combines the advantages of a snowshoe, including a large surface area, a toe cleat that claws into the terrain and a lifting of the front tip with each step, with the advantages of an approach ski, including a fibrous skin for added traction climbing uphill and an ability to slide down hill. A stretchable portion in the skin adjacent to a hinge in the ski permits the ski to be compactly collapsed without removing the skin, for easy packing and storage while not in use. For climbing up a steep incline, a removable fixed cleat provides added traction, and a heel riser reduces the strain on the lower leg and Achilles tendon region of the skier.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2008
    Publication date: July 24, 2008
    Inventor: Lane Ekberg
  • Patent number: 7402127
    Abstract: The present invention involves a method of securing an exercise device having an elongated base member with a linear track on a topside of the elongated base member to conventional exercise machine in order to exercise multiple muscle groups at once. A slidable body moves within the one or more linear tracks of the exercise device. The slidable body is attached to a pole to be gripped while exercising.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2008
    Inventor: Peter A. Rizzo
  • Patent number: 7344377
    Abstract: A method, a system and a device used within such enhances the repeatability and overall performance of a person skiing through a water ski slalom course. The device is a series of markers positioned on the side of a ski boat which markings can be readily viewed by a skier being towed by the boat at a distance of up to about 100 feet. The method comprises having the skier noting the boat markings which the ski rope crosses as the skier begins a turn into the slalom course. Once a run of desired performance is obtained the skier can repeat that performance more readily by always beginning the initial turn into the slalom course based on the ski rope crossing the same marking on the boat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2008
    Inventor: Mark Bozicevic
  • Patent number: 7198590
    Abstract: A ski training apparatus is provided that simulate movement similar to alpine skiing. A pivoting arm is mounted at the base of the front vertical post and carries a parallelogram linkage assembly, with two flanged wheels mounted on the linkage assembly. A guide swivel is mounted on the floor base underneath the flanged wheels. Two horizontal and parallel foot platforms are mounted on the linkage assembly for rocking motion about vertical parallel axes. The pivoting arm, foot platforms, flanged wheels and guiding swivel constitute a low friction mechanism that provides the compound motion similar to that of alpine skiing. A holding bar and a padded lower back rest will maintain the body properly positioned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2007
    Inventor: John Nicholas
  • Patent number: 7137925
    Abstract: A device to assist a beginner in learning how to snowboard. The device connects to the top rear of the snowboard and consists of a base plate that connects to the snowboard, a rotational component that connects to the base plate and allows vertical and horizontal rotation, and a handle that connects to the rotational component on one end and is held by the instructor on the other end. The instructor skis behind the beginner and applies force to the handle which controls the speed, direction and edging of the snowboard, thereby assisting the beginner in learning how to snowboard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2006
    Inventors: Jeffrey Rozycki, Jeff Thomas DeWeese
  • Patent number: 7115073
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus used to simulate skating or roller blading movement in a user includes a pair of sleds or shuttles which include a pedal adapted to support the foot of a user standing thereon. The shuttles are movable along a respective guide assembly consisting of one or more rails which curve away from each other extending from proximate forwardmost ends, outwardly and rearwardly. The rail assemblies are provided in a substantially mirror arrangement and curve downwardly from their respective forwardmost ends to a lowermost distal portion. A guide member is provided to assist in positioning and maintaining the shuttles in sliding movement along each guide assembly, whereby the reciprocal sliding movement of the shuttles along an associated guide assembly acts to guide the feet of the user in skating or roller blade movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2006
    Assignee: Skatestrider Inc.
    Inventor: Nash Nizamuddin
  • Patent number: 6955634
    Abstract: A skiing exercise device includes a base frame having a front end portion with a pair of pivot poles disposed on opposite sides of a vertical plane. Each pivot pole has a pole axis inclining at an angle relative to the vertical plane. Each of two stepper members includes a foot support mounted on a supporting rod that extends from a pivot tube, which is sleeved rotatably on a respective pivot pole, in a longitudinal direction parallel to the vertical plane toward a rear end portion of the base frame, and a coupling flange extending from the pivot tube away from the vertical plane. A coupling unit includes a reel-mounting seat mounted on and movable in the longitudinal direction relative to the front end portion of the base frame, a reel mounted rotatably on the reel-mounting seat and disposed between the stepper members, and a cord wound on the reel and having opposite ends connected respectively to the coupling flanges of the stepper members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2005
    Inventor: Shu-Chtung Lat
  • Publication number: 20040241631
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus used to simulate skating or roller blading movement in a user includes a pair of sleds or shuttles which include a pedal adapted to support the foot of a user standing thereon. The shuttles are movable along a respective guide assembly consisting of one or more rails which curve away from each other extending from proximate forwardmost ends, outwardly and rearwardly. The rail assemblies are provided in a substantially mirror arrangement and curve downwardly from their respective forwardmost ends to a lowermost distal portion. A guide member is provided to assist in positioning and maintaining the shuttles in sliding movement along each guide assembly, whereby the reciprocal sliding movement of the shuttles along an associated guide assembly acts to guide the feet of the user in skating or roller blade movement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2004
    Publication date: December 2, 2004
    Inventor: Nash Nizamuddin
  • Publication number: 20040242381
    Abstract: A laterally sliding exercise device includes a base with rails that receive a foot platform. The rails are supported by a center support member that can be adjusted up and down resulting in a change in elevation of first ends of the rails. The change in elevation of the rails changes the resistance of the exercise device. Rollers slidingly connect the foot platform to the rails during operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2004
    Publication date: December 2, 2004
    Inventor: Kim M. Parmater
  • Patent number: 6746248
    Abstract: The invention relates to body supports and teaching aids particular for use during skiing. Skiing to greater or to lesser degrees imposes strains on the muscles of the skier causing fatigue and encouraging a skier to adopt an incorrect stance or posture not conducive to good and correct skiing. The object of the invention is to provide a simple and effective body support and teaching aid that is effective during skiing and does not need to be removed during a temporary cessation of activity but allows substantial freedom of movement of the legs during walking and sitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2004
    Inventor: Owen Eastwood
  • Publication number: 20030138762
    Abstract: The invention relates to body supports and teaching aids particular for use during skiing. Skiing to greater or to lesser degrees imposes strains on the muscles of the skier causing fatigue and encouraging a skier to adopt an incorrect stance or posture not conducive to good and correct skiing. The object of the invention is to provide a simple and effective body support and teaching aid that is effective during skiing and does not need to be removed during a temporary cessation of activity but allows substantial freedom of movement of the legs during walking and sitting.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2003
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Inventor: Owen Eastwood
  • Patent number: 6592377
    Abstract: A snowboard teaching and recreational device by which an instructor may direct the movement, weight shift and control the center of gravity of the pupil. The device preferably uses two parallel tubes as a support frame, with two crossbars secured to the support frame and spaced handle grips on each crossbar. The instructor grasps one end of the support frame while the pupil grasps the opposite end, thereby allowing the instructor to direct the weight shift and movements of the pupil through use of the said device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2003
    Inventor: Karl J. Bendele, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6582300
    Abstract: A game machine executes a game program in response to a control signal given by rotating imitation mechanism driven by a player to display an object corresponding to the player on a display device. The game machine includes a rotation detector, a control unit, and a display for displaying the ski course with the trace of the skis according to the display data of the trace generated by the control unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2003
    Assignee: Sega Enterprises, Ltd.
    Inventors: Tatsuya Watanabe, Hideki Inoue, Yuji Sugimori, Makoto Sugawara
  • Patent number: 6524110
    Abstract: The invention relates to body supports and teaching aids particular for use during skiing. Skiing to greater or to lesser degrees imposes strains on the muscles of the skier causing fatigue and encouraging a skier to adopt an incorrect stance or posture not conducive to good and correct skiing. The object of the invention is to provide a simple and effective body support and teaching aid that is effective during skiing and does not need to be removed during a temporary cessation of activity but allows substantial freedom of movement of the legs during walking and sitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2003
    Inventor: Owen Eastwood
  • Patent number: 6520858
    Abstract: A video game apparatus, method and medium increases simulation realism of a jump action by using an operation stick bendable from its upright position. A controller-operation detection unit detects values of the x-coordinate and the y-coordinate which correspond to a bend direction and a bend angle of an operation stick; jump control unit starts a run-up action when an A-button is turned on, in which if the operation stick is not bent towards the back end, processing immediately shifts to a jump action process; and jump conditions are determined on the basis of a changed information regarding the values of the x-coordinate and the y-coordinate at the time when the stick is bent from the back end to the upright position and the position of a ski-jumping competitor corresponding to a takeoff of a ski-jumping hill at the time of the operation of the operation stick.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2003
    Assignee: Konami Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masanori Matsui, Hideyuki Fujiwara
  • Patent number: 6471584
    Abstract: A simulation game machine relatively moves a virtual character displayed on a monitor in a game space in accordance with control by a player using an operation unit. The simulation game machine includes a pair of dummy skis, jump switches for instructing the character to initiate jumping, and a jump controller for controlling the character to jump in accordance with an instruction from the jump switches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2002
    Assignee: Konami Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tetsuya Wada, Yasuyuki Nagatomo
  • Publication number: 20020110793
    Abstract: The invention relates to body supports and teaching aids particular for use during skiing. Skiing to greater or to lesser degrees imposes strains on the muscles of the skier causing fatigue and encouraging a skier to adopt an incorrect stance or posture not conducive to good and correct skiing. The object of the invention is to provide a simple and effective body support and teaching aid that is effective during skiing and does not need to be removed during a temporary cessation of activity but allows substantial freedom of movement of the legs during walking and sitting.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 4, 2002
    Publication date: August 15, 2002
    Inventor: Owen Eastwood
  • Patent number: 6368112
    Abstract: A sky diving training device for training a student to assume the correct position for free fall. The device has a platform mounted on a swivel. The student lies face down on the platform with his shoulders on a steering bar. When the student diver allows one shoulder to drop, the device begins rotating in a predetermined direction. When the student corrects his shoulder position, the device stops rotating, however if the student over corrects the shoulders, the device begins rotating in the opposite direction. The rotation simulates what happens in a free fall if the diver allows one shoulder to drop even slightly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2002
    Inventor: Jeffrey S. Mason
  • Patent number: 6270403
    Abstract: A ski game machine executes a game program in response to a control signal given by rotating imitation skis by a player to display an object of a skier corresponding to the player on a display device. The ski game machine comprises: a ski rotation detector for generating the control signal by detecting direction and degree of a rotation of the imitation ski; a control unit for obtaining position data showing a current position of the skier on a ski course according to data of ski course and the control signal, generating polygon data showing a trace of the skis of the skier according to the position data, storing the polygon data while the skier is skiing on the ski course, and generating display data of the trace to display on the display device according to the stored polygon data of the trace; and a display for displaying the ski course with the trace of the skis according to the display data of the trace generated by the control unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2001
    Assignee: Sega Enterprises, Ltd.
    Inventors: Tatsuya Watanabe, Hideki Inoue, Yuji Sugimori, Makoto Sugawara
  • Patent number: 6162061
    Abstract: A ski simulator apparatus is provided in which two rebounders or miniatures trampolines are maintained and secured in a common framework. The rotatable frame members supporting each trampoline are adjustable to vary the incline of one trampoline relative to the other so as to simulate different size and shapes of moguls. The framework includes receptacles for accepting and securing the legs of conventional rebounders or trampolines therein. The entire unit may be disassembled by removing trampolines and folding the framework upon itself to facilitate storage and transportation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2000
    Inventor: Rogan L. Taylor
  • Patent number: 6142870
    Abstract: A simulation game machine relatively moves a virtual character displayed on a monitor in a game space in accordance with control by a player using an operation unit. The simulation game machine includes a pair of dummy skis, jump switches for instructing the character to initiate jumping, and a jump controller for controlling the character to jump in accordance with an instruction from the jump switches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2000
    Assignee: Konami Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tetsuya Wada, Yasuyuki Nagatomo
  • Patent number: 6033227
    Abstract: A training apparatus includes a training device, an operation detection unit, a training condition calculation unit, an image display processing unit, and a display unit. The training device has a movable unit which is displaced according to an action of a trainee who is training with reference to a training image. The operation detection unit detects a displacement of the movable unit during training. The training condition calculation unit calculates a training condition of next time on the basis of a detection result from the operation detection unit in training immediately before and a training condition immediately before. The image display processing unit prepares, on the basis of the training condition obtained by the training condition calculation unit, training image data which changes according to the detection result from the operation detection unit in training under the obtained training condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2000
    Assignee: NEC Corporation
    Inventor: Hiroyuki Ishige
  • Patent number: 6022272
    Abstract: A sliding simulator includes swinging member. The swinging member is swung right and left by a player standing thereon. A swing sensor senses swing movement of the swinging member. An image generating unit generates an image in response to a signal sensed by the swing sensor. The image is displayed on a display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2000
    Assignee: Namco Ltd.
    Inventor: Takashi Sano
  • Patent number: 6019608
    Abstract: A snowboard training device is provided which allows a an instructor to direct the movement of a snowboard trainee from a reasonable distance. The snowboard training device includes an inner member suitable for attaching firmly to the mid-section of the trainee, a rigid outer member disposed spaced apart from the mid-section of the trainee, and at least one connecting member which acts to fixedly attach the inner member to the outer member in a horizontal disposition. The snowboard training device further includes an elliptical hoop or other rigid device fixedly attached to a harness worn by the snowboard trainee and which extends horizontally about the mid-section of the trainee at a distance that allows an instructor to direct the movement of the trainee while the snowboard trainee is snowboarding on a snow slope.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2000
    Inventor: Jon Stark
  • Patent number: 5987982
    Abstract: An apparatus and a method to monitor the balance performance of a user comprises two separate but similar foot-plates each slightly larger than the foot of a user. Each foot-plate includes detectors to detect the load imparted to the foot-plate by a user, about two axes generally at right angles with one axis lying more or less along the length of the user's foot and the other axis transverse thereto. The outputs from the foot-plates are fed to a processing unit which drives a display device, graphically to show to the user on a real-time basis the detected loads and so to allow a user to modify his balance performance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1999
    Assignee: SMS Sandland Manufacturing Services Limited
    Inventors: Alan Wenman, Christopher Daughtery
  • Patent number: 5913684
    Abstract: A locomotion simulator has two independently controlled movable footpads. Each footpad is positioned dynamically in three-dimensions. The top of each footpad has a controlled rotational motion, and the assembly having the two footpads is rotated under control. In operation, a user, whose feet are tracked in position and angle, walks or runs on the simulator and the footpads are controlled to simulate ground contact. Controlled rotation and translation movements permit simulation of turning, climbing, and decending.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 22, 1999
    Assignee: Computer Graphics Systems Development Corporation
    Inventors: Roy W. Latham, David R. Marsh, Peter O'Driscoll
  • Patent number: 5911611
    Abstract: A water ski training apparatus is provided which includes a training apparatus body that is adapted to be connected to a water ski tow rope. The training apparatus body supports the user's feet directly or the water skis which in turn support the feet. The apparatus body is disengagable from the skis once the skier rises to a standing position in the water. In one form, the ski training apparatus body has left and right openings for left and right skis. The openings are larger than the skis so that the skis are able to slide easily within the openings and ultimately slide off the front end of each ski once the skier becomes at least partially elevated out of the water to a standing position. A tow rope clamp is supported on the training apparatus body for connecting the body to the tow rope so that the user can hold the end of the tow rope with his hands while the training apparatus body is secured to another portion of the rope by the clamp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 15, 1999
    Inventor: David M. Saad
  • Patent number: 5895340
    Abstract: A training device for use in teaching techniques for snow boarding, skiing, and the like, includes a carriage including two spaced vertical posts. A tubular arcuate track extends between the posts and forms a segment of a circle lying in an inclined plane. An elongated support member formed, for example, in the shape of a snow board or skis, is secured adjacent a first, lower end to the carriage by a ball and socket mechanism. A guide roller assembly mounted for pivotal movement on the bottom surface of the support member allows a user to move the support member along the arcuate track and to incline the support member from side to side, simulating the edging techniques used in the actual turning of skis or a snow board. A plurality of rollers mount the carriage for translational movement along a linear guide path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 20, 1999
    Inventor: Martin Keller
  • Patent number: 5813864
    Abstract: A simulator for presenting a simulation movement on a display correspondingly to a movement of an operator. The operator rides on a support plate and the support plate can be turned about a vertical axis line and can be tilted about a horizontal axis line. The support plate is equipped with a first reactive force applying device and a second reactive force applying device. The first reactive force applying device holds the support plate in a natural state in a neutral position with respect to the vertical axis line and applies reactive force to the support plate when the support plate turns from the neutral position. The second reactive force applying device holds the support plate in a natural state in a neutral position with respect to the horizontal axis line and applies reactive force to the support plate when the support plate tilts from the neutral positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 29, 1998
    Assignee: Namco Limited
    Inventor: Junichi Ikuta
  • Patent number: 5749811
    Abstract: A ski simulation device for providing training and/or exercise includes a support frame, a track mounted on the support frame, and a pair of foot platforms supported on the track. The foot platforms are each independently slidably supported on track cars which slide along the track. The foot platforms are also independently rotatable around a generally vertical axis on the track and are each independently rotatable around a horizontal axis to enable edging, etc. The track is rotatably supported on the support frame in a pivot bushing at an inclined angle for rotation about the inclined angle. This enables the track to rotate when one's weight is at one side thereof. In addition, the support frame is flexibly mounted on a floor frame via flexible mounts which enable tilting, flexibility, etc., so as to greater simulate actual skiing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 12, 1998
    Inventor: Roger F. Wilson
  • Patent number: 5713794
    Abstract: A simulator controlling device includes a swinging member for controlling a virtual moving object in the right and left direction. The swinging member is swung right and left within right and left limits. A first elastic portion forces and returns the swinging member to a neutral position within the right and left limits. A second elastic portion forces the swinging member toward the neutral position within right and left additional reaction areas. Each of the right and left additional reaction areas is formed from each of the right and left limits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 3, 1998
    Assignee: Namco Ltd.
    Inventors: Hideki Shimojima, Takashi Sano, Taro Onodera, deceased
  • Patent number: 5697791
    Abstract: Devices and methods for the assessment and biofeedback training of coordination skills of a subject critical to maximizing the power and accuracy of athletic ball-strike activities. In preferred embodiments, the invention provides for assessment and biofeedback training of weight bearing and center of gravity control under conditions requiring the athlete to strike a ball such that the distance and direction of flight trajectory of the ball are accurate relative to a performance goal. One embodiment of the invention includes a body movement sensor, a ball strike sensor, a display, and a computer. The body movement sensor provides an output indicative of the motion of the subject's body over a period of time including the moment of ball strike. The computer causes the display to show both a trajectory of the motion of the subject's body and the moment of ball strike in relation to a region of the trajectory.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 16, 1997
    Inventors: Lewis M. Nashner, Daniel F. Goldstein
  • Patent number: 5692995
    Abstract: An exercise machine that simulates the movements made during snow skiing and has a pair of foot support arms mounted for limited rotational movement about separate axes of rotation so that foot support portions of the foot support arms move simultaneously both vertically and horizontally, coordinates simultaneous movement of both foot support arms through a gear train coupling the foot support arms. In addition, foot support treads which support the feet of a user of the machine are resiliently mounted to the foot support arms to allow angling of the foot support treads to simulate a feeling of edging of skis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 2, 1997
    Assignee: Dennis D. Palmer
    Inventors: Matias J. Alvarez, Vladimir Sarpe
  • Patent number: 5690591
    Abstract: A ski training apparatus includes footboards a movable portion, an apparatus body, a braking section, a movement estimating section, a braking control section, and a braking section. The movable portion supports the footboards to allow them to rotate, and displaces the footboards in accordance with ski-sliding movement. The apparatus body supports the movable portion to allow it to swing. The measuring section measures the loads of the feet of a trainee on the footboards to output load information, while measuring the displacement amount of the movable portion and the rotational angles of the footboards to output displacement information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 25, 1997
    Assignee: NEC Corporation
    Inventors: Akihisa Kenmochi, Shin'ichi Fukuzumi
  • Patent number: 5613856
    Abstract: A device allows a person to practice ski turns, while wearing his or her own skis, and to make the body movements required for turning. The device includes a base unit and an elevated support surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 25, 1997
    Inventor: Robert Hoover
  • Patent number: 5601434
    Abstract: A device which can be manufactured in multiple embodiments which makes it possible to break down and practice separately the steps involved in various ski techniques that require sliding the skis sideways into the snow as is required for a hockey stop, christies, and other common skiing manuevers. One embodiment of the invention contains a suspended overhead beam and a harness for holding the skier that is pivotally and slidably engaged with the overhead beam. This guides the direction of the skier while traversing the slope.To effectively learn skiing techniques requiring the sideways sliding of the skis such as the hockey stop, a skier is suspended in the air and makes first contact with the ski surface in sliding postion. In this manner, the skier learns the feel of the slide, one of the ending steps, prior to earlier steps. By breaking down the skill and learning the last steps first, learning and confidence is facilitated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 11, 1997
    Inventor: Steven N. Winters
  • Patent number: 5509870
    Abstract: A variable resistance slide board comprises a thin flexible sheet having a low friction upper surface. The sheet may include start-stop blocks located on the sides or elsewhere for engaging the foot or hands of the user while starting or pushing and while stopping. The start-stop blocks may be permanently attached or adjustably mounted. The sheet is mounted on a compressible mat. Additionally, the sheet is made from a deformable material so that the resistance can be controlled in accordance with the characteristics of the compressible mat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 23, 1996
    Inventor: Stephen N. Lloyd
  • Patent number: 5462506
    Abstract: A lateral-movement trainer is disclosed which is selectively positionable for storage or use. The trainer includes an elongate slidesheet with first and second ends, and an enclosure dimensioned for substantially containing the slidesheet. Extension/retraction structure is associated with the enclosure, and is selectively actuable to move the slidesheet to either a retracted position for storage, or an extended position for use in connection with lateral-movement training. A lock mechanism is associated with the enclosure for selectively preventing undesired actuation of the extension/retraction structure. Bumper structure is coupled to the first end of the slidesheet, and the enclosure includes an outer surface with a bumper region substantially opposite the bumper structure. The enclosure is also shown being dimensioned to contain the slidesheet and bumper structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 31, 1995
    Assignee: Joshua Group Ltd.
    Inventor: Max C. Markland
  • Patent number: 5397154
    Abstract: A new and improved stabilizer device for skiers having two skis, each of the two skis has an upper surface and a lower surface. Two front supports are secured to a corresponding upper surface of the two skis. Two back supports have a triangular support bracket theresecured. Each triangular support bracket is secured to a corresponding upper surface of the two skis. A U-shaped cross member has two convoluted end portions positioned to be secured to the two front supports and to the two back supports. Two brake handles, each of the two brake handles are secured to the U-shaped cross member. Two brake cables are secured to the corresponding brake handle and to the corresponding triangular support bracket of the back support. Two drag brakes are secured to the corresponding triangular support brackets and secured to the brake cables. Two spring mechanisms are secured to the triangular supports brackets and to the drag brakes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 14, 1995
    Inventor: Robert I. Baldwin
  • Patent number: 5378156
    Abstract: A teaching aid (10) for alpine skiers is disclosed in this invention. The pupil is supported by a cradle (11) at the pupil's mid-section. The instructor controls the pupil's weight distribution and orientation to the hill by moving the cradle (11), and by maintaining eye contact and verbal communication with the pupil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 3, 1995
    Inventor: John F. Rohe
  • Patent number: 5372365
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for training a user to move in a desired movement pattern, especially for training a golfer to swing a golf club. One or more sensors are placed adjacent the user, for example pressure sensors under the user's feet and/or between the user's hands and a golf club. The sensors generate signals corresponding to the user's movement. A comparator and signal generator are used to compare a function of the user signals and a reference value, and to generate training signals which are communicated to the user, e.g. by radio frequency signals received by a headset worn by the user. In this way, the user senses, during the actual movement, training signals which represent a relationship between the actual movement pattern and a desired movement pattern.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1992
    Date of Patent: December 13, 1994
    Assignee: SportSense, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael H. McTeigue, Art Zias
  • Patent number: 5352165
    Abstract: A personal exercise device on which an exerciser may slide back and forth. The exercise device includes a sliding mat as well as first and second end pieces. Each end of the mat defines a series of apertures. Each of the end pieces include a plurality of bosses and posts, which engage the apertures of the mat. Such assemblies prevent the mat from ripping away from the end pieces while an exerciser uses the mat and pushes against the end assemblies with her feet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 4, 1994
    Inventor: Jeffrey M. Koblick
  • Patent number: 5342260
    Abstract: A bumper-attachment assembly is disclosed for attaching to an elongate slideboard of a lateral movement trainer a bumper which includes an inner region with an impact surface, and outer, bottom and top regions. The assembly includes slideboard-receiving structure formed with a groove which is positioned in the bottom region at an angle of about 15.degree.-30.degree. that slopes upwardly with respect to a plane containing a bottom surface of the bottom region and away from the impact surface. The assembly also includes slideboard-fastening structure positionable adjacent the slideboard-receiving structure and operative to fasten a first end of the slideboard to the bottom region. The assembly also includes a protective-decorative covering for the bottom region, and which may be structured to cover the top, inner and outer regions of the bumper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 30, 1994
    Assignee: Joshua Group Ltd.
    Inventor: Max C. Markland
  • Patent number: 5338205
    Abstract: A pool for simulating water-skiing includes a pool body, a pumping plant which pumps water into the pool body as a stream just under the surface of the water in the pool body, a track supported above the periphery of the pool body, an automatic traveling member engaged with the track and capable of automatically traveling along the track, and a tow rope having one end attached to the traveling member. To practice standing up on water skis at the beginning of water-skiing, the traveling member is made to move along the track thereby pulling the skier from a remote position, for example, to a position in the stream of water injected into the pool. If kept at this position the skier can practice skiing with little difficulty. To simulate slaloming, the automatic traveling member can be controlled to travel back and forth along the track so that the skier's position relative to the stream of injected water is varied.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 16, 1994
    Inventor: Hideo Kusano
  • Patent number: 5326338
    Abstract: A lateral exercise apparatus for use in performing side-to-side skating movements having a surface layer for performing the skating movements on each side thereof. Each side of the surface layer has a very low coefficient of friction. A plurality of adjustable clamps are utilized to adjust the length of the surface layer with each adjustable clamp including at least one pair of releasable clamping surfaces for gripping the surface layer. Each of a plurality of resilient bumpers are removably interlocked to one of the releasable clamping surfaces of each of the adjustable clamps for terminating the side-to-side skating movements. The resilient bumpers are wedge-shaped and have a low impact surface angle .THETA. of less than or equal to 20.degree.. Finally, a high friction layer is provided for underlying and securing the surface layer to a floor surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 5, 1994
    Inventor: Joseph M. Makous
  • Patent number: 5312258
    Abstract: A dry land snowboard training device is presented for simulating the balance and movement of a conventional snowboard on dry land, and in particular the balance and movement of a conventional snowboard on a wooden half pipe. The device comprises a unitary retrofit apparatus which can be mounted to a footboard or removably mounted to a conventional snowboard. The retrofit apparatus includes a frame, a support brace, and a series of housing assemblies which each contain a plurality of ball bearings. The device also incorporates a pair of inventive bindings which each comprise a hard plastic sole, with straps, and a support piece, with a strap, which is attached to the hard plastic sole with flexible cords.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 17, 1994
    Assignee: Sam J. Mulay
    Inventor: John D. Giorgio
  • Patent number: 5277678
    Abstract: An improved cross-country skiing simulating exercise machine for providing interactive aerobic conditioning has a base frame, a pair of foot skates movably mounted on the frame, and a pair of arm poles attached to the frame. The frame has two elongate parallel rails, suitably made of extruded aluminum, each having sidewalls with an elongate groove therein with recesses within the grooves thereby forming sidewall tracks. The skates are securely and movably mounted on the rails and have an inclined top surface sloping downwardly in a forwardly direction and a toe kick at their forward end. The arm poles are at the sides of the front end of the frame, and an electronic sensing, control and display assembly is mounted on the frame between the arm poles. An interactive video skate resistance mechanism for automatically adjusting the difficulty of moving the skates is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 1992
    Date of Patent: January 11, 1994
    Assignee: Fitness Master, Inc.
    Inventors: Adolf H. Friedebach, Paul M. Theisen