For Foot-attached Gliding Vehicle (e.g., Ski Slide, Ice Skating Surface, Etc.) Patents (Class 472/90)
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Patent number: 11931646Abstract: A module for the construction of a recreational track, particularly a bicycle track having a frame on which the modules are placed, wherein the module has an upper part intended for riding and making a curved surface, and in the top view it has a quadri-lateral-like shape with two sides in the shape of arches, a rear wall and a front wall, wherein the rear wall and the front wall form the base of the module, as well as the left face wall and the opposite right face wall, which are placed between the rear wall and the front wall, characterized in that in the side view, the rear wall has the quadrilateral shape, the sides of which converge upwards at an acute angle, and in the side view the front wall has the shape of an arc connecting the upper part with the base of the module.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 2021Date of Patent: March 19, 2024Assignee: PARKITECT s.r.o.Inventor: Erik Burgon
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Patent number: 11441275Abstract: A safety surface material for a playground facility employing a monolithically mixed and troweled Thermoplastic Olefin (TPO) polypropylene/polyurethane cushion course base layer—which, for water park/spray park use is overlain by a Thermoplastic Rubber wear course top.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 2018Date of Patent: September 13, 2022Inventor: William H. McGrath, Jr.
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Patent number: 11389691Abstract: An exercise platform for use with a resilient exercise band includes a body formed of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene. The exercise platform includes a pair of intersecting channels one side and a support surface on another side upon which a user stands. When the platform is in use, the channels are spaced away from a floor surface, and are dimensioned to allow a portion of the exercise band to be retained therein, as the user performs an exercise movement employing the exercise band while he or she stands on the platform.Type: GrantFiled: January 24, 2020Date of Patent: July 19, 2022Inventor: Floyd E. Reed, III
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Patent number: 11351440Abstract: A ring for a fighting sport has a circular fighting area defined by a plurality of circular fence rings that are held up by posts. Shock absorbers connect the fence rings to the posts. Position markers are provided to indicate the starting positions of the participating fighters at certain points during the bout.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2019Date of Patent: June 7, 2022Inventor: David Feldman
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Patent number: 11318976Abstract: A cart storage system for storing a movable cart includes a storage plate inclined with respect to a floor in a first direction crossing a moving direction of a cart, a stopper along a back side of the storage plate in the moving direction, and a first holding plate extending along the moving direction, configured to stop movement of the cart in the lateral direction, and disposed a first predetermined distance away from a lateral side of the storage plate.Type: GrantFiled: January 13, 2020Date of Patent: May 3, 2022Assignee: TOSHIBA TEC KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventors: Takuya Ogishima, Masakazu Kato
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Patent number: 11274809Abstract: A system for lighting a volleyball court has four corner light assemblies, two side center light assemblies, and four mid-court light assemblies. Each corner light assembly has an upper light fixture adapted to emit light outward and downward at a level generally below a player's eye level and a lower light element mounted in a manner to emit light outwards and upwards. Each side center light assembly has two lower light fixtures adapted to emit light outward and downward at a level generally below a player's eye level and an upper light assembly adapted to emit light outwards and upwards at a level generally above a player's eye level. Each mid-court light assembly has a light fixture adapted to emit light outward and downward at a level generally below a player's eye level. By ensuring that no light is emitted at a player's eye level, glare is significantly reduced.Type: GrantFiled: May 10, 2021Date of Patent: March 15, 2022Inventor: Francis J. Henkel
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Patent number: 11199310Abstract: A system for lighting a volleyball court has four corner light assemblies, two side center light assemblies, and four mid-court light assemblies. Each corner light assembly has an upper light fixture adapted to emit light outward and downward at a level generally below a player's eye level and a lower light element mounted in a manner to emit light outwards and upwards. Each side center light assembly has two lower light fixtures adapted to emit light outward and downward at a level generally below a player's eye level and an upper light assembly adapted to emit light outwards and upwards at a level generally above a player's eye level. Each mid-court light assembly has a light fixture adapted to emit light outward and downward at a level generally below a player's eye level. By ensuring that no light is emitted at a player's eye level, glare is significantly reduced.Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 2021Date of Patent: December 14, 2021Inventor: Francis J. Henkel
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Patent number: 11040289Abstract: A padded grating system comprising sheets of multiple composite members secured together with multiple support bars or battens, wherein each composite member preferably consists of an elongated rigid bar with a foam layer adhered thereto which are encapsulated by a PVC or plastic water impervious tube or sleeve that has been heated and shrunk thereon. The sheets are specifically designed to be used in connection with water rides such as the FlowRider® and can be modularly installed on site to cover certain drainage areas. The composite members are preferably made by gluing the rigid bars onto a sheet of foam and cutting the foam sheet to form the composite members, and after the tube or sleeve has been heat shrunk around each one, the ends of the composite members are then cut and sealed.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 2018Date of Patent: June 22, 2021Assignee: WhiteWater West Industries, LTD.Inventor: Thomas J. Lochtefeld
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Patent number: 10493350Abstract: A therapy system combining sensory input configured to enhance patients balance and stepping is provided. The system may include a mat that selectively receives a plurality of targets. The targets are contacted by the patient's feet and return an audible signal. The system allows a healthcare professional or patient to analyze gait and balance, and correct the same if needed.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 2016Date of Patent: December 3, 2019Assignee: Step and Connect, LLCInventor: Erica DeMarch
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Patent number: 10337151Abstract: The movable track for barefoot walking is designed to provide healthy exercise and to prevent and heal chronic and casual diseases by walking in bare feet while executing a marathon on the movable track. The movable track for barefoot walking includes a movable/portable, lightweight, waterproof, fiberglass platform or base having a connected assembly of waling surface sections thereon. Each section has unique physical and medical benefits for use by a marathoner. The sections include: a first section having high and low areas of ground; a gravel and stone section; a sand section; a grass section; a water section; and a clay section. Provisions are made within the confines of the track for a water tank, pumping capabilities, clothing storage, bath facilities and appropriate controls.Type: GrantFiled: February 18, 2019Date of Patent: July 2, 2019Inventor: Zabin S. S. Alotaibi
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Patent number: 9878255Abstract: The present invention discloses a surfing device comprising at least one energy projector for projecting energy, at least one energy recycling mechanism for recycling at least some of the projected energy, and at least one energy projecting structure. The energy projecting structure is configured for supporting the energy projector to provide a plurality of energy projecting positions for the projection of energy therefrom. The projected energy provides a simulated surfing surface, positioned a distance from the plurality of energy projecting positions. The energy projecting structure is also configured for supporting the energy recycling mechanism for projecting recycled energy from one or more recycled projection positions.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 2016Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Assignee: WHITEWATER WEST INDUSTRIES LTD.Inventor: Stephen Con Kriticos
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Patent number: 9675869Abstract: The jumping platform has a lateral mounting portion and a lateral lapping portion respectively formed on two lateral surfaces of the jumping platform. The extendable jumping platform assembly has multiple jumping platforms, multiple extending boards, and a jumping board. The jumping platform assembly has a lateral mounting portion and a lateral lapping portion so that the jumping platforms and the extending boards can be juxtaposed for extending lateral leaping range safely and extending sliding length according to the usage. One end of the extending board is mounted on the jumping platform, the other end of the extending board is mounted on the jumping board, and each one of the extending board and the jumping board has a leg assembly for supporting.Type: GrantFiled: October 14, 2016Date of Patent: June 13, 2017Assignee: T. K. CHIN COMPANY LTD.Inventor: Howard Chin
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Patent number: 9486711Abstract: A system for shielding a rider's back from a ride surface. The system includes a slide ride having an entrance and an exit and configured such that the rider's back slides substantially parallel along a slide ride surface when the rider slides from the entrance towards the exit. The system includes a plurality of shielding devices disposed relative to the slide ride such that the rider may put on one of the plurality of shielding devices prior to sliding on the slide ride, each of the plurality of shielding devices configured to be worn by the rider such that the shielding device covers the rider's back, and adapted to slide upon the slide ride surface to shield the rider's back from the slide ride surface when the rider slides from the entrance to the exit.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 2013Date of Patent: November 8, 2016Assignee: Whitewater West Industries Ltd.Inventors: Daniel P. Brassard, Raymond J. DuBois, Timothy B. Kwasnicki, Richard A. Sebulsky
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Patent number: 9400130Abstract: This disclosure relates to a skating rink that includes a skating area, a wall at least partially surrounding the skating area, and a visible mark extending along a perimeter region of the skating area to indicate to a skater traveling head first toward the wall that the skater should look up and to related methods.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2015Date of Patent: July 26, 2016Assignee: The Thomas E. Smith Fight to Cure Paralysis FoundationInventor: Thomas E. Smith
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Publication number: 20150133228Abstract: A system with at least one sliding surface element (1), preferably as run-in track systems for ski jump system/ski jumps, wherein the height and/or the course of the sliding surface elements (14) has to be adjusted to any profile by spacer elements (30).Type: ApplicationFiled: April 15, 2013Publication date: May 14, 2015Applicant: CeramTec-ETEC GmbHInventor: Eduard Kropp
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Patent number: 8905853Abstract: A portable ice skating rink comprising, a flexible rubber sheet having a first end and a second end wherein the first end is connected to the second end thereby forming a sidewall, wherein the sidewall is positioned on a horizontal surface to form the border of a closed geometric shape thereby defining a skating surface area, and a flexible, water-proof slip draped over and connected to the sidewalls, thereby forming a liner of a structure capable of containing a liquid inward of the sidewalls to create a skating surface.Type: GrantFiled: January 17, 2013Date of Patent: December 9, 2014Inventors: Brian Ruffino, Joseph Pinelli
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Patent number: 8784223Abstract: A system and method for improving skating speed and strength of skaters, particularly ice skaters, employs an inclined skating ramp. The skating surface itself may be any of the conventional or yet-to-be-invented artificial ice surfaces. The inclination of the ramp provides a greater challenge for the skating student than a conventional flat skating surface. While the inclined ramp may have more than one lane, so that more than one student may skate side-by-side in competition with each other, it is preferred to have only a single lane and employ a timing system so that a student is skating “against the clock” and therefore focused on improvement of individual performance.Type: GrantFiled: August 4, 2004Date of Patent: July 22, 2014Inventor: Dean C. Talafous
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Patent number: 8690695Abstract: This invention provides a terrain system comprising a set of metal tubes having a rounded cross section The tubes are separated at a width that defines the appropriate terrain. The tubes are supported by a base located on at least two spaced apart positions therealong. Each leg assembly includes a bottom bar that allows it to be implanted in packed snow. Optional outriggers can be attached to each side of the bottom bar so that the legs can afford increased stability. The legs include telescoping sections that allow for height adjustability. One leg can be omitted, thereby creating a ramp. Each end of the top portion contains male and female connection points, which accommodate curved end caps. Two end caps can also be joined with a double-axis hinge assembly that allows the adjacent top portions to be joined together and articulated along two parallel hinge axes.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 2011Date of Patent: April 8, 2014Inventor: Matthew L. Pittman
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Patent number: 8550926Abstract: The present invention relates to an improvement in the construction of water ride surfaces and comprises at least one layer of soft permeable material built into the padded substrate of a structurally supported ride surface. The permeable material connects to a drainage system and is preferably sandwiched between a slick skin upper waterproof membrane, and a supporting substrate beneath it. The advantage to this improvement is when water leaks through the waterproof membrane, the permeable material prevents water from building up inside the padded substrate, and allows the water to be drained out, rather than blistering and bubbling up under the waterproof membrane, thereby helping to preserve the integrity and longevity of the ride surface.Type: GrantFiled: March 9, 2007Date of Patent: October 8, 2013Inventor: Thomas J. Lochtefeld
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Patent number: 8535168Abstract: A snow sports apparatus (10) including: a hollow housing (12) having an internal generally cylindrical surface (12) and supported, with its axis having a major horizontal component, for rotation about said axis; and means (60) to provide on said internal generally cylindrical surface (30), a surface that, as the housing (12) is rotated, is relatively traversable downwardly on skis or a snowboard on the initial rising part (115) of the surface's travel.Type: GrantFiled: September 1, 2009Date of Patent: September 17, 2013Inventor: Darren Visser
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Patent number: 8517848Abstract: A carousel ride in which vehicles may move at differing speeds, in differing directions, and each be independently positioned relative to a load/unload platform. In one embodiment, a carousel ride is provided that includes: (1) an inner ring assembly including a first ring supporting vehicles and a drive system operable to rotate the first ring about a center axis of the carousel ride; and (2) an outer ring assembly including a second ring, concentric to the first ring, supporting vehicles and a drive system operable to rotate the second ring about a center axis of the carousel ride. During a portion of a ride, the drive system of the inner ring assembly operates to rotate the first ring at a first rotation rate, and the drive system of the outer ring assembly operates to rotate the second ring at a second rotation rate differing from the first rotation rate.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 2012Date of Patent: August 27, 2013Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.Inventors: David W. Crawford, Edward A. Nemeth
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Patent number: 8313389Abstract: A carousel ride in which vehicles may move at differing speeds, in differing directions, and each be independently positioned relative to a load/unload platform. In one embodiment, a carousel ride is provided that includes: (1) an inner ring assembly including a first ring supporting vehicles and a drive system operable to rotate the first ring about a center axis of the carousel ride; and (2) an outer ring assembly including a second ring, concentric to the first ring, supporting vehicles and a drive system operable to rotate the second ring about a center axis of the carousel ride. During a portion of a ride; the drive system of the inner ring assembly operates to rotate the first ring at a first rotation rate, and the drive system of the outer ring assembly operates to rotate the second ring at a second rotation rate differing from the first rotation rate.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2010Date of Patent: November 20, 2012Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.Inventors: David W. Crawford, Edward A. Nemeth
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Publication number: 20120122596Abstract: A hydroplaning device for a rider to perform liquid sport athletic maneuvers, which comprises a support member having a height relative to the ground and a slope; a surface member disposed on the support member, wherein the surface member forms at least an angled surface and a catchment area. The device also comprises a liquid circulation system, having a liquid source, at least one feed line and at least one return line with the liquid source being in fluid communication with the at least one feed line and the at least one return line being in fluid communication with at least one of the liquid source and a disposal location. The device includes at least one liquid dispenser disposed adjacent to the support member or the surface member.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 25, 2012Publication date: May 17, 2012Inventors: Christopher Dale NORTHAM, Shon Michael Northam
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Patent number: 8167731Abstract: The present invention relates to a collapsible artificial ski slope assembly (10) and, in particular, but not exclusively, to a collapsible artificial ski slope assembly which can be moved between deployed and storage positions.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2008Date of Patent: May 1, 2012Inventor: Edward Brown
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Patent number: 7985142Abstract: An indoor ski slope (1) comprises a continuous peripheral wall (2) and a floor (3) which extends obliquely downwards relative to the peripheral wall (2). A roof (5) is arranged on the peripheral wall (2). Furthermore, a layer of snow is provided on the surface of the floor (3), as well as a cooling installation (9) for cooling the floor to a temperature which is suitable for maintaining the layer of snow. The surface of the floor (3) is at least partially curved concavely.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 2005Date of Patent: July 26, 2011Assignee: LF Snowconcepts B.V.Inventor: Barend Alexander Ernst Lokhorst
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Publication number: 20110159973Abstract: A snow sports apparatus (10) including: a hollow housing (12) having an internal generally cylindrical surface (12) and supported, with its axis having a major horizontal component, for rotation about said axis; and means (60) to provide on said internal generally cylindrical surface (30), a surface that, as the housing (12) is rotated, is relatively traversable downwardly on skis or a snowboard on the initial rising part (115) of the surface's travel.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 1, 2009Publication date: June 30, 2011Inventor: Darren Visser
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Patent number: 7854689Abstract: An ice skating training device including an arcuate conveyor belt, the belt having a skateable surface; and a plurality of conical rollers supporting said arcuate conveyor belt, at least one of said frusticonical rollers being driven by a motor, ends of said rollers being mounted so that one end is vertically adjustable relative to the opposite end depending on the speed that the ice skater is going.Type: GrantFiled: September 5, 2006Date of Patent: December 21, 2010Inventor: Andrew Blaylock
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Publication number: 20100197416Abstract: The present invention relates to a collapsible artificial ski slope assembly (10) and, in particular, but not exclusively, to a collapsible artificial ski slope assembly which can be moved between deployed and storage positions.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 28, 2008Publication date: August 5, 2010Inventor: Edward Brown
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Publication number: 20100144454Abstract: An indoor ski slop (1) comprises a continuous peripheral wall (2) and a floor (3) which extends obliquely downwards relative to the peripheral wall (2). A roof (5) is arranged on the peripheral wall (2). Furthermore, a layer of snow is provided on the surface of the floor (3), as well as a cooling installation (9) for cooling the floor to a temperature which is suitable for maintaining the layer of snow. The surface of the floor (3) is at least partially curved concavely.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 7, 2005Publication date: June 10, 2010Applicant: LF Snowconcepts B.V.Inventor: Barend Alexander Ernst Lokhorst
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Patent number: 7547255Abstract: A ride surface for water ride attractions and the like is provided. The ride surface is fabricated from a reinforced membrane material tensioned over a supporting framework. The tensioned membrane ride surface serves the dual role of providing structural support for water flow and riders thereon while at the same time providing an impact safe surface that is non-injurious to riders who may fall thereon. The tensioned membrane can be adjusted actively and/or passively in order to accommodate different and varied ride experiences. Optionally, the shape of the membrane ride surface can be changed either dynamically or passively by special tensioning techniques and/or by using auxiliary support structures such as air bladders, pressure/suction, foam supports or/or the like.Type: GrantFiled: January 7, 2004Date of Patent: June 16, 2009Assignee: Light Wave, Ltd.Inventor: Thomas J. Lochtefeld
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Publication number: 20090039636Abstract: A non-motorized Riding Vehicle for transport of a rider on a surface. The Riding Vehicle includes a shoe body or platform for supporting at least one foot of the rider during the transport and at least one Riding Element under the shoe body or platform that rotates on an axle to facilitate the transport while supporting the rider. The at least one Riding Element includes stimulating elements for creating a periodic vibration during the transport that makes the transport on the surface less smooth than the transport would be if the at least one Riding Element did not include the stimulating elements. Also, a kit and method for converting the Riding Vehicle to a Riding Vehicle with a more or less (intense) vibratory ride.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 11, 2008Publication date: February 12, 2009Inventor: Ralph CHARELL
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Patent number: 7481712Abstract: An artificial snow skiing surface has a number of spaced-apart rigid projections extending from a base. The surface is formed by joining like tile members that attach at side-by-side and end-to-end joints to form the mat. The joints and inherent flexibility of the tiles enable the mat to conform to irregular or non-planar substrates.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 2006Date of Patent: January 27, 2009Inventor: Kent D. McBrien
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Publication number: 20080293506Abstract: The present invention provides hydroplaning equipment, such as boards, skis, bindings, boots and poles for use in connection with a hydroplaning device for a rider to perform liquid sport athletic maneuvers, which comprises a support member having a height relative to the ground and a slope; a surface member disposed on the support member, wherein the surface member forms at least an angled surface and a catchment area. The device also comprises a liquid circulation system, having a liquid source, at least one feed line and at least one return line with the liquid source being in fluid communication with the at least one feed line and the at least one return line being in fluid communication with at least one of the liquid source and a disposal location. The device includes at least one liquid dispenser disposed adjacent to the support member or the surface member.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 23, 2008Publication date: November 27, 2008Inventor: Christopher Dale NORTHAM
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Publication number: 20080293505Abstract: A hydroplaning device for a rider to perform liquid sport athletic maneuvers, which comprises a support member having a height relative to the ground and a slope; a surface member disposed on the support member, wherein the surface member forms at least an angled surface and a catchment area. The device also comprises a liquid circulation system, having a liquid source, at least one feed line and at least one return line with the liquid source being in fluid communication with the at least one feed line and the at least one return line being in fluid communication with at least one of the liquid source and a disposal location. The device includes at least one liquid dispenser disposed adjacent to the support member or the surface member.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 23, 2008Publication date: November 27, 2008Inventor: Christopher Dale NORTHAM
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Patent number: 7347788Abstract: A synthetic ice surface system includes a plurality of sections of synthetic ice and a plurality of dowels. At least a portion of an outer periphery of each section of synthetic ice has one or more passages. Each of the dowels has a pair of opposing ends and one end of one or more of the dowels mates in one of the passages in one of the sections of synthetic ice. Another end of the one or more of the dowels mates in another one of the passages in another one of the sections of synthetic ice to secure the adjacent sections of synthetic ice together and form a substantially smooth ice surface. The sections of synthetic ice and the dowels are made of substantially the same material.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 2005Date of Patent: March 25, 2008Assignee: Crowson Enterprises LLCInventor: George T. Smith, II
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Publication number: 20080020852Abstract: An artificial snow skiing surface has a number of spaced-apart rigid projections extending from a base. The surface is formed by joining like tile members that attach at side-by-side and end-to-end joints to form the mat. The joints and inherent flexibility of the tiles enable the mat to conform to irregular or non-planar substrates.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 18, 2006Publication date: January 24, 2008Inventor: Kent D. McBrien
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Patent number: 7311464Abstract: An internally illuminated snowboard track for recreational areas or parks which are operated at night is made up of a continuous elongated transparent rail which is supported a predetermined distance above the ground by a base support member, and a light source extends longitudinally and internally of the rail to project light outwardly therefrom. A base stabilizer beneath the support member can either be planted in the snow or anchored to the ground surface in the track system may be inclined, curved, straight or provided with one or more bends. A snowboard ramp may be constructed in the same basic manner to serve as a jump for snowboarders.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 2006Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Inventor: Craig Swartz
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Publication number: 20070287548Abstract: Soft caps for absorbing player impact against dasher boards are disclosed. The soft cap can include an elongated body defining a number of absorption ribs and channels for absorbing impact forces against the dasher board. The elongated body can be formed from a material having a relatively low durometer adapted to displace and absorb the impact energy when a player strikes the dasher board. One or more curved sections of the elongated body can be configured to fit adjacent to the hard edges of the dasher board. The soft cap can be provided as part of a dasher board assembly including a lower frame assembly and a number of upper shielding panes.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 7, 2006Publication date: December 13, 2007Applicant: PREMIER RINKS, INC.Inventors: Bruce W. Irving, Matthew Robert Palumbo
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Patent number: 7250004Abstract: Ski run provided with a means for preserving snow on the skiing surface, said means comprising at least pipes suitable for the flow of a cooling agent for cooling the snow present on the skiing surface, said pipes (1) being embedded and located in a layer (5) enabling, when the layer (5) has a temperature of at least 2° C., a water percolation through the layer (5). Below the layer (5), a draining system (6,7) is placed for collecting and draining at least substantially all the water percolating through the layer (5) in which the pipes (1) are embedded.Type: GrantFiled: April 6, 2005Date of Patent: July 31, 2007Inventors: Henri Mollin, Raimund Crammer
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Patent number: 7204763Abstract: An ice skating arena having at least a first ice rink having a first side wall of a first wall length and a second ice rink having a second side wall of a second wall length; the first side wall being parallel to the second side wall at an inter-rink distance therefrom; the first side wall comprising a first protective spectator viewing window; the second side wall comprising a second protective spectator viewing window, a ceiling extending the inter-rink distance from the first wall and the second wall along at least a portion of the first and second walls; a floor extending the inter-rink distance from the first wall and the second wall along at least a portion of the first and second walls; wherein the first side wall, the second side wall, the ceiling and the floor define therebetween a chamber comprising a climate controlled spectator viewing space. The area provides enhanced spectator comfort in a maximum unencumbered viewing manner and reduced capital cost expenditures.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 2002Date of Patent: April 17, 2007Inventor: Murray Beynon
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Patent number: 7104895Abstract: A compact, hinged, foldably deployable ramp is provided in a base configuration which includes three evenly radiused sections which connect to a deck member and have a tube, known as a coping, separating the ramp from the deck. In the base configuration, a top section, mid section and lower section each have a pair of ladder structures which share a middle flange. The deck member includes a pair of angled leg members which are designed to provide support throughout the range of engagement of the ramp. Even size and radiusing of the sections enables continued extension of the ramp by adding sections in conjunction with longer support legs for the deck.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 2003Date of Patent: September 12, 2006Inventor: Roger William Hickey
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Patent number: 6962534Abstract: A winter recreational park is provided for amusing and entertaining one or more participants, the park being intended for location in semi-arid or desert regions. The winter park includes a plurality of interconnected housing structures adapted to safely house the participants as well as winter facilities built with artificial snow and/or ice. The housing structures are adapted to maintain inside temperatures below the freezing point, despite the normally high outside temperatures. The recreational park further includes a plurality of active devices, such as skis or ice skates, adapted for use in each of the respective winter facilities to create the desired effect on ice and/or snow.Type: GrantFiled: August 27, 2003Date of Patent: November 8, 2005Assignee: Hans-Rodolf KaelinInventors: Rico Richter, Christian Pfluegler
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Patent number: 6957546Abstract: A portable ice skating rink comprises, in a kit, a plastic sheeting, a protective band for the sheeting, and a number of rigid tubular members, flexible connectors and corrugated clips. To assemble the kit, the tubular members are connected to each other in a closed loop using the flexible connectors inserted in facing ends thereof and with corners of the loop being formed by curving some flexible connectors. The sheeting is then laid over the ground of the area enclosed by the loop while extending outwardly over and past the loop. The protective band is laid over the sheeting opposite the loop and the clips are installed thereat to secure the sheeting to the so formed frame with the clips running continuously all along the frame such as to protect the sheeting. Portions of the frame can be raised to level it and the sheeting can then be pulled.Type: GrantFiled: March 5, 1997Date of Patent: October 25, 2005Assignee: Farley Ice Technologies Inc.Inventors: Pierre Farley, Nicolas Farley
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Patent number: 6939236Abstract: A rotary ski slope comprising an inclined disc which is rotatable about an axis and has a diameter of at least 100 meters. The disc may be divided into a number of concentric rings (1) which are rotatable at different speeds. Means are preferably provided to circulate coolant across the entire under surface of the disc to prevent the snow from melting. The entire surface of the disc is preferably available for skiing with snow conditioning and grooming apparatus (49, 52) being mounted away from the surface, or selectively retractable from the surface. The upper surface of the disc may be non-planar to set up “wave” allowing a variety of skiing conditions to be provided.Type: GrantFiled: June 19, 2001Date of Patent: September 6, 2005Assignee: Snowvolution LimitedInventors: David McLaren, Rolf Fyne
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Patent number: 6866589Abstract: An ice rink defines a predetermined shape and includes a source of black and/or white light for illuminating the surface of the rink. In one form, the rink includes a plurality of rectangular synthetic panels and a plurality of adjusting elements for forcing the panels tightly together and for compensating for changes in temperature. The panels also include a plurality of grooves and a plurality of metal splines which are dimensioned to fit into the grooves of adjacent panels to provide a smooth skating surface.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 2003Date of Patent: March 15, 2005Assignee: Innovative Products IncorporatedInventors: Kent L. Widrick, John D. Ross, John H. Ross
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Patent number: 6722995Abstract: The facility includes an enclosed space provided with a floor on which a layer of snow can be formed, an apparatus for cooling the space and a device for forming the layer of snow in the space so as to make a predetermined course. The course includes at least one continuous section.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2002Date of Patent: April 20, 2004Assignee: Unlimited Snow Indoor B.V.Inventor: Cornelis Johannes Pieter Albers
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Patent number: 6676530Abstract: A ride surface for water ride attractions and the like is provided. The ride surface is fabricated from a reinforced membrane material tensioned over a supporting framework. The tensioned membrane ride surface serves the dual role of providing structural support for water flow and riders thereon while at the same time providing an impact safe surface that is non-injurious to riders who may fall thereon. The tensioned membrane can be adjusted actively and/or passively in order to accommodate different and varied ride experiences. Optionally, the shape of the membrane ride surface can be changed either dynamically or passively by special tensioning techniques and/or by using auxiliary support structures such as air bladders, pressure/suction, foam supports or/or the like.Type: GrantFiled: April 17, 2002Date of Patent: January 13, 2004Assignee: Light Wave, Ltd.Inventor: Thomas J. Lochtefeld
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Patent number: 6672968Abstract: A modular skate park system comprising one or more platform portions, and one or more ramp members. The ramp members are connectable to the platform portions, and the platform portions can be connected to one another along their edges to accomplish an enlarged platform with one or more ramps providing access to the platform.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 2002Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Assignee: Compass Outdoor Products, Inc.Inventor: Robert Montolio
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Patent number: 6634953Abstract: A downhill sliding course of sliding track for sliding objects and persons down a slope or a hill includes covering or cladding elements for covering the surface of the slope and a water source to moisten the elements with water. The sliding elements include pools located one below the other, wherein the pools are forming water filled micro-terraces (10). The micro-terraces (10) are formed by a sheet covering the slope in a water-tight manner and flexible ribs (2) are emerging from the sheet, furthermore each pool is bordered by the covering sheet (5) and the rib (2) and is closed by a flexible transverse sectioning rib joined to the covering sheet (5) and the flexible rib (2). With suitable accessories activities similar to skiing, sleighing and surfing can be performed on the sliding course. Accordingly, the invention includes also accessories that can be used to perform these activities. The invention provides individual appliances to implement the sliding course.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2002Date of Patent: October 21, 2003Inventor: Csongor Czintos
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Patent number: RE38326Abstract: A molded plastic ramp is made in a one-step molding process. The ramp includes reinforced side and rear walls and a smooth radiused ramp surface. The ramp includes laterally extending side and rear supports that engage a ground surface and the forward portion of the ramp surface extends forward of the forward extent of the side supports.Type: GrantFiled: September 6, 2001Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Inventor: Michael Mapp