Ski core

Abstract

A core (130, 230) for a gliding board (100) is disclosed having a forward shovel section (132), a middle waist section (134), and a rearward heel section (136). The shovel section and heel section are formed from a lower-density material than the waist section. In a particular embodiment, the core is formed from a plurality of elongate members (112) made by joining low-density wood sections (132, 136) to high-density middle sections (134). The sections may be joined using finger joints (140). A reinforcing member, such as an elongate bamboo member (114), may attach to the elongate members (112). The invention also encompasses skis (100) having such variable density cores (130).

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION [0001] This application also claims the benefit of Provisional Application No. 60 / 527,508, filed Dec. 5, 2003, the benefit of which is hereby claimed under 35 U.S.C. § 119.FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0002] The present invention relates to snow skis and, in particular, to snow ski cores having spatially varying material properties. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0003] Snow skiing, including downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, and telemark skiing, is a popular and well-established winter sport in the United States and around the world. In recent years, snowboarding has also become very popular as an option to conventional downhill skiing. The design of skis and snowboards has evolved and continues to evolve to enhance the user's fun, safety, and capabilities in practicing the sport. For example, the planform shape, length, and edge design of skis have undergone continuing innovation and improvement. Also, the use of modern materials, including polym...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0012] In an embodiment of the invention, at least one elongate bamboo stringer is also attached to the elongate wood members to enhance the strength of the core.

Problems solved by technology

For example, longer skis generally provide greater directional stability and generally provide a more stable gliding surface, but they are generally more difficult to use because they are more unwieldy to maneuver and have greater moment of inertia about the user's axis, i.e., a greater swing weight.

For given materials, the minimum weight is typically limited by the need to provide sufficient strength and flexion in the ski.

Images