Abstract: The improved saddle structure of the invention comprises first and second opposed side panels, a plurality of resilient transverse arched rib members connecting the first and second opposed side panels, and a spine member extending longitudinally between the first and second side panels. The spine member is connected to each rib member at a central crown portion of the rib member. The spine member can comprise one or more elongate members or a plurality of connecting members joining the rib members at their crown portions, and the spine member is of sufficient flexibility to flex with the flexure of the spine of an animal on which the saddle structure is fitted. A saddle seat is secured to the spine member and/or rib members. The saddle structure of the invention provides a saddle structure for use on the back of an animal whereby localised load pressure points are reduced while allowing flexure of the animal's spine, and whereby load is distributed more evenly along the length of the saddle structure.

Abstract: A safety device for equestrian sports uses at least one hook-and-loop fastener for connecting ends of the control lines for guiding a horse such that the ends of the control lines will separate and thereby stop a fallen rider or driver from being dragged by a horse or a horse drawn vehicle.

Abstract: A safety device for equestrian sports uses at least one hook-and-loop fastener for connecting ends of the control lines for guiding a horse such that the ends of the control lines will separate and thereby stop a fallen rider or driver from being dragged by a horse or a horse drawn vehicle.

Abstract: An animal training system is disclosed. Said animal training system comprises a one or more gyroscopic assemblies each having a one or more rotors, a one or more gyroscope brackets, a power source attached to a one or more engines, and a one or more gyroscopic resistance forces. Said one or more rotors each comprise an axis. Said one or more gyroscope brackets attaching said one or more gyroscopic assemblies to an animal. Said one or more engines transmit a torque to said one or more rotors. Said one or more gyroscopic resistance forces are generated by rotating said one or more rotors in said one or more gyroscopic assemblies.

Abstract: At least one exemplary embodiment is directed to a website configured to collect sound signatures from around the world and beyond. A communication device automatically stores acoustic information received by a microphone of the communication device. The acoustic information is analyzed for a trigger event. The trigger event stores the acoustic information, attaches metadata, creates a Gaussian Mixture Model, and measures sound pressure level. The communication device automatically sends the sound signature to a database when a communication path is opened to communication device. Each sound signature has associated metadata including a time stamp and geocode. Automatically collecting sounds using a communication device adapted for the process enables a database that captures sounds globally on a continuous basis.

Abstract: A seat support device for a riding animal or a pack animal, a saddle tree, and a saddle with such a saddle tree. The seat support device comprises a right multi-linked lug arrangement with a first link section and at least a second link section and a left multi-linked lug arrangement with a first link section and at least a second link section. A pivoting device with a pivot axis is each formed case between two adjacent link sections, so that two adjacent link sections are pivotable towards one other around a pivot axis substantially within a pivot plane which penetrates the pivot axis substantially perpendicular.

Abstract: A saddle sling for supporting a saddle against a vertical support such as a fence post includes a hook (e.g., C-, V-, U- or L-shaped hook) configured to engage a cantle or pommel edge of a saddle (i.e., an equestrian saddle). The hook defines a gap into which the engaged edge of the saddle is received. A tether loop extends from the hook. The loop is sufficiently long to extend from the engaged edge past the opposite edge and over a vertical support, such as a fence post or picket. The loop may be fixed, adjustable or retractable. The saddle is thus held between the hook and the fence or fence post.

Abstract: An equine saddletree with controlled flexing is disclosed using multiple pairs of wave depressions. One group of wave depressions is positioned along the sidebars extend from the edge of the tree toward the central channel. Other waves are on the pommel and within the central channel. The pommel wave is positioned along the centerline of the tree and has an ellipse and a pair of slots on either side to provide flex. The interior of the central channel scallops along a portion of the periphery. A recess is cut into the edge of the pommel with the width of the recess being greater along the gullet than along the points. The underside of the saddletree is covered with bidirectional carbon weave that extends from the underside to the top surface to overlap on a portion of the top surface. The weave extends from underside along the peripheral edge of the center channel flush with top surface. An engineered rail and secondary rail are formed into the underside.

Abstract: The invention relates to a saddle for horseback riding which has on the distal side of its cantle or on the rear end face thereof a one- or multipiece backpanel reversibly releasably attached by one or a plurality of fastening means; to a one- or multipiece backpanel including one or more fastening means for reversibly releasable connection; and a set comprising a saddle and a backpanel therefor, the said provided with complementary fastening means for reversibly releasable connection.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a safety device for saddles comprising: A) a harness comprising a belt (4) which can be fastened around the waist of a rider (1) mounted on a horse (2), where said belt (4) is secured by means of securing elements (5) to bars (10) which are anchored to a securing base (8) located on the horse (2), B) a quick closure (9) to which the belt (4) is anchored, and C) a sensor (16) sensing the position of the horse (2) which can act on the quick closure (9).

Abstract: A dynamically rigged load distributing system for an equestrian saddle including several load-bearing sections positioned upon flexible inner side panels to be incorporated in the saddle. Several line guides are fixed respectively to the sections. One or more load distribution lines pass through the guides, and loop around free-running pulleys of the stirrup hanger system. A new stirrup hanger bat includes cliverter pulleys and cooperates with a pulley block to transfer loads through the load-distribution lines to the load-bearing sections around the saddle. A girthing system for the saddle includes webbing attached to the sections so as to depend therefrom and receive ends of girth straps whereby load is transferred to the sections on each side of the saddle.

Abstract: The inventive saddle incorporates a padded “free shoulder” panel with a reduced thickness forward section that is configured to provide a physical barrier between the saddle tree and saddle outer flaps and the horse's scapula, while preventing substantial weight transfer onto the scapula or other deleterious contact with the scapula and horse shoulder area. The reduced impact on the horse's body and freed shoulder movement improves horse performance and health.

Abstract: A seat support device for a riding animal or a pack animal, a saddle tree, and a saddle with such a saddle tree are disclosed. The seat support device comprises a right multi-linked lug arrangement with a first link section and at least a second link section and a left multi-linked lug arrangement with a first link section and at least a second link section. A pivoting device with a pivot axis is each formed case between two adjacent link sections, so that two adjacent link sections are pivotable towards one other around a pivot axis substantially within a pivot plane which penetrates the pivot axis substantially perpendicular.

Abstract: The invention also a stabilizing system to stabilize a rider in the saddle comprising a saddle stabilizer block which can be used alone or in combination with a complementary boot stabilizer block to restrict movement of the rider in the saddle.

Abstract: The present invention relates to improvements in or relating to saddles and saddle trees, especially English saddle trees, particularly for horses. In particular, we describe a method of manufacture for a tree which is simplified by the use of leather, webbing and plastic in flat sheet material. This fabrication can be simply stitched and riveted together and a Y-bar and headplate are then bolted and or riveted to the finished leather plastic fabrication. This method of making a tree is fast, efficient, cost effective, safe, reliable, provides more consistent symmetrical performance, and above all is very light, providing a weight saving of 60% compared with conventional methods. The tree fabrication requires no additional finishing or tidying, unlike other forms of manufacture. As soon as the parts are assembled they are ready to go to the next stage of making the finished seat for the saddle.

Abstract: The present invention is a wrap designed to protect the saddle horn when a lariat rope is dallied around it and pressure applied, as when roping cattle in the sports of team and calf roping. The horn wrap consists of a strap having desired elasticity and durability, as well as a sufficient coefficient of friction. The horn wrap can have one or two apertures at the tips which can be pulled over the saddle horn and act to attach the horn wrap to the saddle horn. Generally anticipated to be in a generally bell shape, the attachment pieces act to protect the saddle pommel near the base of the saddle horn. The horn wrap may be beveled near its edges so as to allow for smooth layers on the saddle horn which can increase the contact of the rope to the saddle horn to increase the friction resisting the dally sliding when weight is applied to the rope.

Abstract: A combination removable, protective saddle cover and traction control accessory system is provided. The combination system comprises 1-10 flexible, adhesive-backed panels that form a protective layer over the saddle and also increase grip for the rider. The system's individual parts are applied to create a protective, decorative, non-slip interface between a rider and a saddle or other mounted sports riding equipment. The invention also adheres to the non-visible undersides of the saddle and serve as a set of custom saddle-fitting shims, to eliminate the pain of an ill-fitting saddle and providing better anatomical fit between the saddle and the horse.

Abstract: A saddle horn assembly attached to the tree of a saddle in lieu of a conventional saddle horn consisting of a post of rectangular prismatic configuration with a receiving chamber for insertion of a quick release locking pin, a cap with a quick release locking pin attached to and protruding from the bottom thereof that allows the cap to be detached and reattached to the post within seconds, and a dally traction device with a central void of complimentary dimensions to the post, having a hyperboloid external configuration and being symmetrical in both the horizontal and vertical planes such that the device may be rotated and/or inverted about the post so that it may be quickly and easily manipulated to numerous positions to generate even wear about the exterior, thus increasing the longevity of the device and improving the safety and effectiveness of dallying.

Abstract: A saddle pad cover is disclosed and may include a first layer and a second layer, the first layer being coupled to the second layer, a closure device adapted for insertion of a saddle pad, and a patch positioned on the surface of the first layer, where the saddle pad cover may sleevably receive a saddle pad to form an assembly. A method of maintaining a saddle pad cover is also disclosed.

Abstract: A saddle accessory apparatus is comprised of at least one panel of fabric material having a saddle seat covering portion shaped and sized to cover a saddle seat when mounted thereupon, and first and second flap portions, each extending from opposing sides of the seat covering portion and sized and shaped to cover the stirrup leathers of an English-style saddle, and all or substantially all of the fenders of a Western-style saddle. The apparatus protects the rider's bare legs when riding in shorts. Another embodiment of the apparatus includes riding implement retention means for retention of crops, bats, rods and the like and preventing them from falling to the ground if accidentally dropped.

Abstract: The invention also a stabilizing system to stabilize a rider in the saddle comprising a saddle stabilizer block which can be used alone or in combination with a complementary boot stabilizer block to restrict movement of the rider in the saddle.

Abstract: An equestrian saddle that facilitates air flow includes a seat having at least one seat channel that extends through the seat, at least one air channel disposed in one or more panels, or one or more flap apertures. When used in combination, the seat channel, air channels, and flap apertures form a saddle air flow system. This system provides for air flow within and under the saddle, particularly during inhalation and exhalation of a horse, certain atmospheric conditions, and movement of a horse. The system thus provides for ventilation and cooling of rider and horse.

Abstract: A saddle horn cover apparatus is disclosed comprising, in one embodiment, a cover sized for engagement on a saddle horn and a padding configured for being received within the cover in a position between the saddle horn and an inner surface of the cover. Thus, with the apparatus so engaged on a saddle horn, the apparatus provides padding to protect the user from injuring their hands while performing various horseback riding activities.

Abstract: The invention relates to a measuring device (1) for determining a surface contour (42) of a human or animal body (41), wherein the measuring device (1) comprises a main chain (43) having several main-chain links (44, 44?, 44?, 44??, 44lv, 44v), which are connected to each other by a swivel joint (45), characterized in that the swivel joint (45) has a scale (13, 23, 74?) or sensors, by means of which the angle between the at least two main-chain links (44, 44?, 44?, 44??, 44lv, 44v) can be read or detected.

Abstract: A System, Method and Apparatus for non-permanent traction control on equestrian or other mountable riding equipment is provided. The system comprises 1-6 thin, cushioned, traction control or grip-increasing panels that, when deployed on a riding saddle or other mountable object for human sport riding, creates traction and dissipates excessive motion, percussion and shock generated by the motion of animal, simulated animal or other motorized sport-riding object. The System's parts are applied to any surface involved in creating an improved non-slip interface between the rider and the mounted saddle or other sports riding equipment, or as a contact-improving fitting shim between the saddle and the object onto which the saddle is attached.

Abstract: A treeless western saddle comprising a flexible base coupled to an underside of a flexible substrate. A seat section is integrally formed in the flexible substrate. A pommel section is integrally formed in the flexible substrate. The flexible base has an upper stirrup aperture and a lower stirrup aperture formed in a lateral side of the flexible base. The underside of the flexible substrate has a cavity formed in a lateral side of the underside of the flexible substrate, the cavity to extend from the upper stirrup aperture to at least the lower stirrup aperture.

Abstract: The present invention is a wrap designed to protect the saddle horn when a lariat rope is dallied around it and pressure applied, as when roping cattle in the sports of team and calf roping. The horn wrap consists of a strap having desired elasticity and durability, as well as a sufficient coefficient of friction. The horn wrap can have one or two apertures at the tips which can be pulled over the saddle horn and act to attach the horn wrap to the saddle horn. Generally anticipated to be in a generally bell shape, the attachment pieces act to protect the saddle pommel near the base of the saddle horn. The horn wrap may be beveled near its edges so as to allow for smooth layers on the saddle horn which can increase the contact of the rope to the saddle horn to increase the friction resisting the dally sliding when weight is applied to the rope.

Abstract: A treeless western saddle comprising a flexible base coupled to an underside of a flexible substrate. A seat section is integrally formed in the flexible substrate. A pommel section is integrally formed in the flexible substrate. The flexible base has an upper stirrup aperture and a lower stirrup aperture formed in a lateral side of the flexible base. The underside of the flexible substrate has a cavity formed in a lateral side of the underside of the flexible substrate, the cavity to extend from the upper stirrup aperture to at least the lower stirrup aperture.

Abstract: The present invention is a wrap designed to protect the saddle horn when a lariat rope is dallied around it and pressure applied, as when roping cattle in the sports of team and calf roping. The horn wrap consists of a strap having desired elasticity and durability, as well as a sufficient coefficient of friction. The horn wrap can have one or two apertures at the tips which can be pulled over the saddle horn and act to attach the horn wrap to the saddle horn. Generally anticipated to be in a generally bell shape, the attachment pieces act to protect the saddle pommel near the base of the saddle horn. The horn wrap may be beveled near its edges so as to allow for smooth layers on the saddle horn which can increase the contact of the rope to the saddle horn to increase the friction resisting the dally sliding when weight is applied to the rope.

Abstract: A treeless exercise saddle for training racehorses is provided. The saddle comprises a top surface having a substantially contiguous seat portion adjacent to opposing side panels, and a substantially flat pommel area; a bottom surface opposed to the top surface of the saddle and having a pair of opposing conformable panels affixed to the bottom surface of the saddle. The conformable panels have substantially rectangular cross sections. Optionally, leg flaps may be affixed to the seat portion and the pommel area. The facing surfaces of the conformable panels, together with the bottom or other surface of the saddle, form a gullet area. The gullet area has a cross section wherein the facing surfaces are substantially straight, and wherein the bottom or other surface of the gullet area is substantially straight and substantially perpendicular to the straight facing surfaces, such that the racehorse's spine may protrude into the gullet area when the saddle is mounted on the racehorse.

Abstract: An apparatus attached to the tree of a saddle in lieu of a conventional saddle horn consisting of a post of rectangular prismatic configuration with a receiving chamber for insertion of a quick release locking pin, a cap with a quick release locking pin attached to and protruding from the bottom thereof that may be detached and reattached to the post within seconds, and a dally device with a rectangular prismatic central void of complimentary dimensions to the post, having a hyperboloid external configuration and being symmetrical in both the horizontal and vertical planes such that the device may be rotated and/or inverted about the post so that it may be quickly and easily manipulated to numerous positions to generate even wear about the exterior, thus increasing the longevity of the device and improving the safety and effectiveness of dallying.

Abstract: A horseback riding assembly comprises a saddle, the saddle including a body arranged about a central axis. The body has a proximal region to be adjacent a neck region of a horse. The body includes a pair of lateral portions extending outwardly from the central axis, each of the lateral portions having an inner panel portion providing an inner surface region for engaging a corresponding back region of the horse. An outer panel portion provides an outer surface for receiving a corresponding thigh region of a horseback rider. The body includes an access path between the inner panel portion and the outer panel portion. An assistance bar unit includes a gripping bar portion arranged to be oriented transverse to the central axis and adjacent the proximal region. The gripping bar portion has a pair of opposed end regions and a pair of support portions, each extending from a corresponding end region.

Abstract: The invention also a stabilizing system to stabilize a rider in the saddle comprising a saddle stabilizer block which can be used alone or in combination with a complementary boot stabilizer block to restrict movement of the rider in the saddle.

Abstract: The present invention is a wrap designed to protect the saddle horn when a lariat rope is dallied around it and pressure applied, as when roping cattle in the sports of team and calf roping. The horn wrap consists of a strap having desired elasticity and durability, as well as a sufficient coefficient of friction. The horn wrap can have one or two apertures at the tips which can be pulled over the saddle horn and act to attach the horn wrap to the saddle horn. Generally anticipated to be in a generally bell shape, the attachment pieces act to protect the saddle pommel near the base of the saddle horn. The horn wrap may be beveled near its edges so as to allow for smooth layers on the saddle horn which can increase the contact of the rope to the saddle horn to increase the friction resisting the dally sliding when weight is applied to the rope.

Abstract: A riding saddle provided with a semirigid tree (1) is remarkable in that it includes a semirigid trapezium (2) facing the back (50) of the horse and on which the saddle is placed, which trapezium cooperates with the tree (1).

Abstract: An equine weight training system for efficiently weight training a horse so that the horse may comfortably carry a bouncing load (e.g. individual, etc.) upon their back. The equine weight training system generally includes a saddle tree to be positioned upon a back of a horse and a harness device including a plurality of straps to loop over and attach to the saddle tree and around the horse, wherein the plurality of straps extend outwardly from the harness device. A plurality of pouches extend from the harness device, wherein a plurality of weighted objects are removably positioned within the plurality of pouches. The plurality of weighted objects are inserted and removed from the plurality of pouches to accustom a horse to weight positioned upon a back of a horse.

Abstract: The present invention is a wrap designed to protect the saddle horn when a lariat rope is dallied around it and pressure applied, as when roping cattle in the sports of team and calf roping. The horn wrap consists of a strap having desired elasticity and durability, as well as a sufficient coefficient of friction. The horn wrap can have one or two apertures at the tips which can be pulled over the saddle horn and act to attach the horn wrap to the saddle horn. Generally anticipated to be in a generally bell shape, the attachment pieces act to protect the saddle pommel near the base of the saddle horn. The horn wrap may be beveled near its edges so as to allow for smooth layers on the saddle horn which can increase the contact of the rope to the saddle horn to increase the friction resisting the dally sliding when weight is applied to the rope.

Abstract: Embodiments related to a flexible forward substrate for a treeless western saddle are described herein. Other embodiments may be described and claimed.

Abstract: The invention concerns a riding saddle (200) with a gullet plate (101; 101?) as well as a gullet plate (101, 101?). A gullet plate (101, 101?), which is designed and arranged in a riding saddle (200) so that the foremost part (103) of the gullet plate (101; 101?) is situated above the lowermost part (104) and, when the riding saddle (200) is mounted, the gullet plate arms (102, 102?) enclosing the back of the horse (11) on its downward facing ends (105) each define a pressure surface (112) with a longitudinal extent that runs roughly parallel to the dorsal vertebrae (3) of the animal, contributing to more uniform weight distribution on the forehand and hind quarters and simultaneously giving the rider considerable latitude in order to convey commands with his body language.

Abstract: Embodiments relate to a flexible forward substrate for a treeless western saddle. Other embodiments may be described and claimed.

Abstract: A safety device (18, FIG. 1) for a horse 12 comprises an air bag 24 and an inflation means, the safety device (18) being adapted to be mounted to a saddle 14 or saddle pad 16. The airbag 24 is substantially horseshoe shaped and when inflated is adapted to extend around a horse's hind quarters up one flank, across the back of the horse, and down the other flank. Inflation of the airbag 24 is triggered when the safety device is moved to a substantially vertically disposed position as encountered in a rotational fall. A second embodiment of airbag 42 with a pyramidal shape is shown in FIG. 4.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a piece (2) for a saddletree (1) of mat-like general shape conformed to have both a first overall concavity in a first direction of a longitudinal plane of symmetry and a second overall concavity in a second direction of a transverse plane, delimited by an exterior free edge (14) including a pommel portion, a cantle portion and two longitudinal portions, the exterior free edge being adapted to cooperate with a complementary interior free edge of the saddletree, the mat including a plurality of individual portions at least partly separate, placed in the vicinity of each other so that each individual portion can absorb forces and be deformed in bending or in torsion at least partly independently of the other individual portions, the piece being provided with elements for associating it with the saddletree.

Abstract: The carrier device for saddles is a device intended for mounting behind a saddle and provides a way for a horseback rider to carry a dog or other items that might not be suitable for a traditional saddlebag or backpack. The carrier device for saddles may be made from flex tree material, and has four vertical sides and an open top. Holes in the front and rear walls of the device are sized to accommodate the head and legs of a dog. A harness is provided inside the device that secures a dog in a prone position on the back of a horse. The device attaches to the saddle girth. Two inserts are provided that can accommodate different sizes of dogs, or to allow other items to be carried when a dog is not aboard.

Abstract: The present invention relates to improvements in or relating to saddles and saddle trees, especially English saddle trees, particularly for horses. In particular, we describe a method of manufacture for a tree which is simplified by the use of leather, webbing and plastic in flat sheet material. This fabrication can be simply stitched and riveted together and a Y-bar and headplate are then bolted and or riveted to the finished leather plastic fabrication. This method of making a tree is fast, efficient, cost effective, safe, reliable, provides more consistent symmetrical performance, and above all is very light, providing a weight saving of 60% compared with conventional methods. The tree fabrication requires no additional finishing or tidying, unlike other forms of manufacture. As soon as the parts are assembled they are ready to go to the next stage of making the finished seat for the saddle.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a modular saddle. There is provided a saddle having a saddle tree unit, a saddle flap unit and a panel unit, wherein the panel unit and saddle flap unit are removably securable to the saddle tree unit. The flap unit comprises two flap components each having a sweat flap and saddle flap. Each flap component is removable from the saddle tree in one piece. The panel unit includes plates, which extend the bearing surface of the saddle tree, and prevent the formation of pressure points. In another aspect of the present invention there is provided a flexible tree made from a polyurethane resin. The tree further includes a Y-shaped carbon fibre strengthening bar, which enables the tree to flex laterally, but not longitudinally.

Abstract: A saddle for equestrian use has on each of its flaps a knee roll which is of generally concave shape at its rear face to retain the thigh of the rider. This is of particular advantage in saddles for use in dressage and endurance events and tends to prevent the rider's leg from moving over the knee roll during working movements of the horse.

Abstract: A saddle specially adapted for steer wrestling is disclosed. Instead of having a symmetrical cantle having a central point and two cupped side sections, the present invention has a cantle with a straight portion to the dismount side of the saddle to enable a smooth and fast dismount of the steer wrestling competitor.

Abstract: A saddle cushioning assembly having component structures including a flexible pad having an upper surface and having a longitudinal midline; a flexible “T” hook having left and right arms; and hook attaching stitching fixedly interconnecting the flexible pad and the flexible “T” hook, the hook attaching stitching positioning the flexible “T” hook so that the flexible “T” hook's left and right arms overlie the flexible pad's upper surface and respectively extend leftwardly and rightwardly from the flexible pad's longitudinal midline.

Abstract: The Pony Bar is a handle bar that attaches to the horn of a western horse saddle. The purpose of the handle bar is to provide a safety mechanism for kids to hold on to while sitting in the saddle and riding. The components of the handle bar are comprised of various materials including a metal pipe, connecting bolt, bolt fasteners and hand grip material. The bar helps a rider stabilize him/herself and therefore helps to prevent falls and encourage confidence and balance while in the saddle.

Abstract: Embodiments related to a flexible forward substrate for a treeless western saddle are described herein. Other embodiments may be described and claimed.