Skateboard with multi-wheel stand

Abstract

Embodiments of mobile wheel platforms that minimize wheel interactions with discontinuous and uneven surfaces are described herein. Additionally, embodiments of mobile wheel platforms with rotation inhibiting structures are described herein. Implementation of rotation inhibiting structures on or in mobile wheel platforms helps eliminate wheel bite. Other embodiments may be described and claimed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to skateboards, and more particularly, to multi-wheel skateboard trucks.

[0002] Related application data

[0003] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Patent Application No. 62 / 822,412, filed on March 22, 2019, and U.S. Patent Application No. 62 / 880,562, filed on July 30, 2019, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0004] background

[0005] People have adopted the use of skateboards as a convenient and recreational means of transportation. Generally, skateboards present many advantageous advantages over other self-propelled vehicle alternatives because they can be easily stored, picked up, and carried. However, and often, when a user skates a skateboard over a crack (including but not an exhaustive list: contraction joints, expansion joints, control joints, and uneven surfaces), the wheels of the skateboard drop into the crack and then bounce back up when the wheels of the skateboard contact the other side of the crack. This type of interaction results in harmful effects, including noise, impact to the skater and the operation (or control) of the skateboard. There is a need in the art for a moving wheel platform that minimizes the interaction of the wheels with discontinuities and uneven surfaces to enhance the individual's skateboarding experience and satisfaction. Summary of the invention

[0006] The present invention relates to the following aspects:

[0007] 1. A bracket, comprising:

[0008] Suspension; the suspension comprises:

[0009] A cylindrical body; wherein the cylindrical body surrounds a hole or void;

[0010] A pivoting saddle; the pivoting saddle further comprising a pivoting end and a pivoting body surrounding the hole;

[0011] at least two rotation-inhibiting structures;

[0012] shaft; wherein the shaft is received within the hole or the void of the cylindrical body of the suspension;

[0013] Component; the component comprises:

[0014] a first arm and a second arm;

[0015] First training wheel and second training wheel;

[0016] in:

[0017] The first arm portion and the second arm portion include a front region, a middle region, and a rear region;

[0018] The front region forms a front aperture;

[0019] The middle region forms a middle hole;

[0020] The rear region forms a rear aperture;

[0021] The two rotation inhibiting structures are adjacent to the pivoting saddle body, and the two rotation inhibiting structures are on opposite sides of the pivoting saddle body, and the two rotation inhibiting structures are spaced apart from the cylindrical body; and

[0022] The two rotation inhibiting structures are coplanar with each other, and wherein the middle regions of the first and second arms conform to and are located in a space between the rotation inhibiting structures and the cylindrical body.

[0023] 2. The bracket of aspect 1, wherein the first arm and the second arm include a first end and a second end, and wherein the first end and the second end are substantially planar with each other.

[0024] 3. The bracket according to aspect 1, wherein the first arm and the second arm include a first end and a second end, and wherein the first end and the second end are at an angle between 178 degrees and 180 degrees.

[0025] 4. A bracket according to aspect 1, wherein the bracket is located at the head of the skateboard.

[0026] 5. The bracket according to aspect 4, wherein the bracket is located at the rear of the skateboard.

[0027] 6. The stand of aspect 1, wherein a third wheel and a fourth wheel are coupled to the shaft.

[0028] 7. The stand of aspect 1, wherein the first wheel, the second wheel, the third wheel, and the fourth wheel are in a diamond-shaped configuration.

[0029] 8. The bracket according to aspect 2, wherein the length of the first end of the first arm and the second arm is shorter than the length of the second end of the first arm and the second arm.

[0030] 9. The stent of aspect 6, wherein the first wheel, the second wheel, the third wheel, and the fourth wheel have the same diameter.

[0031] 10. The stent of aspect 1, wherein the rotation inhibiting structure defines a predetermined range of rotational motion of the first arm and the second arm.

[0032] 11. The bracket according to aspect 10, wherein the predetermined rotational movement range is between 0 degrees and 35 degrees.

[0033] 12. The stent of aspect 1, wherein the rotation inhibiting structure is neither circular nor elliptical in length and is between 2 inches and 2.5 inches in length.

[0034] 13. The stent of aspect 12, wherein the rotation inhibiting structure has a width between 0.125 inches and 0.375 inches.

[0035] 14. A bracket according to aspect 1, wherein the bracket also includes one or more flange bearings, which are accommodated in the middle holes of the first arm and the second arm to reduce the friction between the cylindrical body of the suspension and the first arm and the second arm.

[0036] 15. The bracket according to aspect 14, wherein the flange bearing is composed of nylon material.

[0037] 16. A bracket according to aspect 3, wherein the bracket is in a reverse kingpin configuration.

[0038] 17. The stent of aspect 1, wherein the front hole, the middle hole, and the rear hole are circular.

[0039] 18. The stent of aspect 1, wherein the rotation inhibiting structure is solid.

[0040] 19. The stent of aspect 1, wherein the rotation inhibiting structure is hollow.

[0041] 20. The stent of aspect 6, wherein the diameters of the first, second, third and fourth wheels are between 2.7 inches and 4 inches. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0042] Figure 1 A perspective view of a moving wheel platform coupled to a skateboard deck is shown according to one embodiment.

[0043] Figure 2 Shows Figure 1 A partial exploded view of the mobile wheel platform.

[0044] Figure 3 Shows the connection to Figure 1 Another perspective view of the moving wheel platform of a skateboard.

[0045] Figure 4 Shown is the assembled Figure 2 Mobile wheel platform.

[0046] Figure 5 Shows Figure 1 A close-up of the suspension.

[0047] Figure 6 Shows Figure 1 Close-up of the arm.

[0048] Figure 7 Shows Figure 4 A partially assembled view of the .

[0049] Figure 8 An exploded view of a mobile wheel platform according to another embodiment is shown.

[0050] Fig. 9 Shown is a Figure 8 Assembled mobile wheel platform.

[0051] Fig.10 Shows Figure 8 Close-up of the arm.

[0052] Fig.11 Shows Figure 8 Close-up of the suspension.

[0053] Fig.12 An exploded view of a mobile wheel platform according to another embodiment is shown.

[0054] Fig.13 Shown is the assembled Fig.12 Mobile wheel platform.

[0055] Fig.14 Shown is a Fig.12 Mobile wheel platform.

[0056] 15 illustrates a mobile wheel platform coupled to a skateboard deck according to another embodiment.

[0057] FIG. 16 shows a close-up view of FIG. 15 .

[0058] Fig.17 An arm according to the embodiment of FIG. 15 is shown.

[0059] Fig.18 An assembled view of the mobile wheel platform of Figure 15 is shown.

[0060] Fig.19 A friction reducing element according to the embodiment of FIG. 15 is shown.

[0061] Fig. 20 An exploded view of the mobile wheel platform of Figure 15 is shown.

[0062] Figure 21-24 Shows Figure 8 Exemplary motion analysis of a mobile wheel platform.

[0063] describe

[0064] The present invention presented herein is directed to a mobile wheel platform that can mitigate the negative (or unwanted) feedback experienced by a user when maneuvering on uneven surfaces (such as sidewalk cracks). Many of the mobile wheel platform embodiments presented herein can be configured for use in a skateboard or longboard (in the form of a stand). However, in alternative embodiments, the mobile wheel platform can be adapted for use in wheelbarrows, industrial carts, industrial dollies, commercial carts, commercial carts, hand trucks, and stack trucks.

[0065] The skateboard or longboard may include a series of frames with arms, axles and wheels, and the frames are arranged in such a way that when the frame is applicable, at least two wheels are in contact with the ground at any given time, while another wheel of the frame is suspended or immersed in a crack or empty space. The frame is also configured to prevent the wheels of the frame from contacting or engaging the bottom of the skateboard or longboard when the center of mass of the skateboard changes suddenly. This is accomplished at least in part by a rotation inhibiting structure.

[0066] As used herein, the terms or phrases "connect," "connected," "connects," "connecting" may be defined as joining two or more elements together mechanically or otherwise. A connection (whether mechanical or otherwise) may last for any length of time, such as permanently or semi-permanently or only momentarily.

[0067] As used herein, the terms or phrases "link", "linked", "links", "linking" may be defined as a relationship between two or more elements where at least one element affects another element. A link (whether mechanical or otherwise) may last for any length of time, such as permanent or semi-permanent or just momentary.

[0068] The terms or phrases "secure", "secure", "secures", "securing", as used herein, may be defined as firmly fixing or fastening (one or more elements) so that it cannot be moved or loosened. The securing (whether mechanical or otherwise) may last for any length of time, such as permanently or semi-permanently or only momentarily.

[0069] As used herein, the term or phrase "width" or "width of the elongated body" is measured in a direction extending from a first end of the elongated body to a second end of the elongated body (or along the longitudinal axis of the elongated body), the second end being distal to the first end.

[0070] As used herein, the terms or phrases "couple," "coupled," "couples," and "coupling" may be defined as mechanically or otherwise connecting two or more elements. A connection (whether mechanical or otherwise) may last for any length of time, such as permanently or semi-permanently or only momentarily. Mechanical connections and the like should be understood broadly and include all types of mechanical connections. The absence of the words "removably," "removable," and the like near the words "coupled," and the like does not mean that the connection and the like in question is removable or non-removable.

[0071] The term or phrase "skateboard" or "longboard" as used herein can be defined by four different parts. The top portion of the skateboard is defined as the portion of the board on which the user stands. The bottom portion of the skateboard is defined as the portion opposite the top portion. By convention, the posture of a right-footed user is defined as the left foot in front of the right foot. The front portion of the skateboard is defined as being near the user's left foot. The rear portion of the skateboard is defined as being near the user's right foot. The forward direction is defined as the direction when the user's right foot pushes backward on the ground to move the skateboard in the opposite direction.

[0072] The terms "first", "second", "third", "fourth" and the like in the specification and claims, if any, are used to distinguish between similar elements and are not necessarily used to describe a specific sequential or sequential order. It should be understood that the terms used in this way are interchangeable where appropriate, such that the embodiments described herein can, for example, operate in an order other than those illustrated or otherwise described herein. In addition, the terms "including" and "having" and any variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusions, such that a process, method, system, article, device or apparatus that includes a list of elements is not necessarily limited to those elements, but may include other elements that are not explicitly listed or inherent to such a process, method, system, article, device or apparatus.

[0073] The terms "left", "right", "front", "rear", "top", "bottom", "above", "below" and the like, if any, in the specification and in the claims are used for descriptive purposes and are not necessarily used to describe permanent relative positions. It is understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances such that embodiments of the apparatus, methods, and / or articles of manufacture described herein are, for example, capable of operation in other orientations than those illustrated or otherwise described herein.

[0074] "A", "an", "the", "at least one" and "one or more" are used interchangeably to indicate that at least one item is present; unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, there may be multiple such items. All parameter values ​​(e.g., quantities or conditions) in this specification, including the appended claims, should be understood to be modified by the term "about" in all cases, whether or not "about" actually appears before the value. "About" means that the value allows some slight imprecision (close to the exact value; about or quite close to the value; almost). If the imprecision provided by "about" is not understood in the art to have such ordinary meaning, then "about" as used herein at least represents the variation that may result from ordinary methods of measuring and using such parameters. In addition, the disclosure of ranges includes the disclosure of all values ​​and further divided ranges within the entire range. Therefore, each value within the range and the endpoint of the range are disclosed as separate embodiments. The terms "comprises", "comprising", "including" and "having" are inclusive and thus clarify the presence of the items described, but do not exclude the presence of other items. As used herein, the term "or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the listed items. When the terms first, second, third, etc. are used to distinguish different items from each other, these names are only for convenience and do not limit these items.

[0075] In many examples used herein, the term "approximately" may be used when one or more values, ranges of values, relationships (e.g., position, orientation, etc.), or parameters (e.g., speed, acceleration, mass, temperature, rotation rate, rotation direction, etc.) are compared to one or more other values, ranges of values, or parameters, respectively, and / or when describing a condition (e.g., with respect to time), such as, for example, a condition that remains constant with respect to time. In these examples, the use of the word "approximately" may indicate that a value, range of values, relationship, parameter, or condition is within ±0.5%, ±1.0%, ±2.0%, ±3.0%, ±5.0%, and / or ±10.0%, as appropriate, of the relevant value, range of values, relationship, parameter, or condition.

[0076] Before any embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail, it is to be understood that the present disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of the structures and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The present disclosure is capable of other embodiments and can be practiced or carried out in various ways.

[0077] A skateboard or longboard (skateboard 111, 511) comprising a series of brackets is proposed herein. The mobile wheel platform described herein can be configured in the form of a bracket (bracket 100, 200, 300, 400, 500) for use in a skateboard or longboard. Figure 1-Figure 20 Multiple stand embodiments are shown that enable the device to glide, move like a vacuum cleaner, and / or reduce adverse interactions between the skateboard stand and the ground when the skateboard is moved over uneven surfaces, cracks, or seams. Various stands (100, 200, 300, 400, or 500) include: a suspension having an elongated body, a pivoting saddle protruding from the elongated body, one or more shafts extending through or partially through the elongated body, one or more arms rotatably coupled (or connected) to the elongated body, and one or more rotation inhibiting structures that govern the rotation of the one or more arms. In addition, a variety of wheel arrangements and rotation inhibiting structures are presented that work together to approach gaps that exist along the sliding surface in different ways. Various positions, arrangements, and configurations of the wheels, arms, and rotation inhibiting structures prevent the wheels from interacting, overextending, and / or engaging the bottom of the skateboard or longboard.

[0078] Parts of a skateboard stand

[0079] 1. Suspension

[0080] In many exemplary skateboard support embodiments, the support includes a suspension. The suspension generally includes an elongated body; a pivoting saddle protruding from the elongated body; a void (or bore) extending longitudinally through the elongated body; one or more arms pivotally (and / or removably) coupled to the suspension; and one or more rotation inhibiting structures configured to limit excessive rotation of the one or more arms. In many embodiments, the suspension is configured to be coupled to a baseplate.

[0081] The base plate, in turn, may be secured to the bottom surface of the skateboard or longboard. When the suspension and base plate are assembled to one another, a linkage is formed that enables the suspension to become a base member or foundation member that directly or indirectly connects, links or secures together many of the following components.

[0082] 2. Long body

[0083] Typically, in many embodiments, a portion of the suspension includes an elongated body. The elongated body of the suspension may be cylindrical ("elongated cylindrical body") and / or tubular ("elongated tubular body"). Figure 2 A portion of an elongated body with a cylindrical portion is shown. In this embodiment, the elongated cylindrical body can have a constant radius, which extends from the first end of the elongated cylindrical body to the direction of the second end (i.e., along the longitudinal direction of the elongated body). The range of the constant radius can be between 0.1 inches and 1 inches. In many embodiments, the constant radius can be 0.1 inches, 0.2 inches, 0.3 inches, 0.4 inches, 0.5 inches, 0.6 inches, 0.7 inches, 0.8 inches, 0.9 inches or 1.0 inches. In other embodiments, the radius can be approximately between 0.1 inches and 0.2 inches, between 0.2 inches and 0.3 inches, between 0.3 inches and 0.4 inches, between 0.4 inches and 0.5 inches, between 0.5 inches and 0.6 inches, between 0.6 inches and 0.7 inches, between 0.7 inches and 0.8 inches, between 0.8 inches and 0.9 inches, or between 0.9 inches and 1.0 inches. The radius of the elongated cylindrical body may be varied to change the weight characteristics of the skateboard stand.

[0084] As previously described, the elongated body can be tubular ("elongated tubular body"). In many embodiments, the elongated tubular body includes an inner diameter and an outer diameter that extend across the entire width of the suspension (see Figure 8 ). Figure 8 An elongated tubular member is shown defined by an inner diameter D1 and an outer diameter D2. The inner diameter of the elongated tubular body may be between 0.01 inches and 0.55 inches.

[0085] In a specific embodiment, the inner diameter D1 of the elongated tubular body can be 0.01 inch, 0.03 inch, 0.05 inch, 0.07 inch, 0.09 inch, 0.11 inch, 0.13 inch, 0.15 inch, 0.17 inch, 0.19 inch, 0.21 inch, 0.23 inch, 0.25 inch, 0.27 inch, 0.29 inch, 0.31 inch, 0.33 inch, 0.35 inch, 0.37 inch, 0.39 inch, 0.41 inch, 0.43 inch, 0.45 inch, 0.47 inch, 0.49 inch, 0.51 inch, 0.53 inch, or 0.55 inch. The outer diameter D2 can range between 0.1 inch and 1.0 inch. Specifically, the outer diameter of the elongated tubular body can be 0.1 inch, 0.2 inch, 0.3 inch, 0.4 inch, 0.5 inch, 0.6 inch, 0.7 inch, 0.8 inch, 0.9 inch or 1.0 inch, or a combination thereof. In other embodiments, the outer diameter D2 can range from 0.1 inch to 0.2 inch, from 0.2 inch to 0.3 inch, from 0.3 inch to 0.4 inch, from 0.4 inch to 0.5 inch, from 0.5 inch to 0.6 inch, from 0.6 inch to 0.7 inch, from 0.7 inch to 0.8 inch, from 0.8 inch to 0.9 inch, or from 0.9 inch to 1.0 inch.

[0086] The material of the elongated body can be made of any material used to make conventional skateboard stands. The elongated body of the suspension can be made of any of the following or a combination thereof: 8620 alloy steel, S25C steel, carbon steel, maraging steel, 17-4 stainless steel, 1380 stainless steel, 303 stainless steel, stainless steel alloy, brushed steel, tungsten, titanium, titanium alloy, aluminum, aluminum alloy, aluminum 3003, aluminum 5052, aluminum 6061, aluminum 7075, aluminum A356, ADC-12, or any other metal or plastic suitable for making the elongated body. The material of the elongated body can vary depending on the intended use and / or quality of the suspension.

[0087] The width of the elongated body of the suspension can be varied to accommodate (or complement) the width of the skateboard deck or a particular device. In many embodiments, the width of the elongated body can range from about 5 inches to about 9 inches. In other embodiments, the width of the elongated body can be about 5 inches-6 inches, 6 inches-7 inches, 7 inches-8 inches, or 8 inches-9 inches. In other embodiments, the width of the elongated body can be about 5 inches, 6 inches, 7 inches, 8 inches, 9 inches, or other suitable widths that can form an appropriate relationship between the width of the skateboard and the width of the suspension.

[0088] In many embodiments, a portion of the elongated body forms a void in the width direction. Figure 2 and Figure 5 An exemplary embodiment of an elongated body forming a void is shown in FIG. Figure 2 and 5 A void is shown formed at each corresponding end (first end and second end) of the elongated body. Each void extends in the width direction of the suspension and extends between about 1% and about 50% of the total width of the suspension. In other words, a portion of the elongated body surrounds the void, such as Figure 1-Figure 4 , Fig. 9 and Fig.10 As shown further.

[0089] Each void in the elongated body can extend along the width direction of the elongated body and extend between about 1% and 50% of the width of the elongated body. Specifically, in many embodiments, the void can extend between about 1%-5%, 5%-10%, 10%-15%, 15%-20%, 20%-25%, 25%-30%, 30%-35%, 35%-40%, 40%-45%, or 45%-50% of the width of the elongated body. In alternative embodiments, such as Figure 8-Figure 19 As shown, the suspension may form a hole that extends completely through the elongated body. The gap or hole enables one or more shafts to be rigidly attached to the elongated body.

[0090] 3. Axis

[0091] The stent also includes at least one axis. One or more axes can extend completely through the elongated body of the suspension (if the elongated body forms a hole) or partially through the elongated body (if the elongated body forms a void). In many embodiments, if the hole extends completely through the elongated body, only one axis is required. If a portion of the suspension is solid, there is a void at the distal end of the elongated body, and two different axes extend through the ends of the elongated body and extend out of the ends of the elongated body. The void can extend from each end of the elongated body to a certain percentage (less than about 50%) of the width of the elongated body because the solid portion of the elongated body is present between the voids.

[0092] 4. Wheel

[0093] The support also includes at least two wheels. In many embodiments, one or more axles are configured to receive one or more wheels. Each of the one or more wheels can be characterized by diameter (wheel diameter), hardness (wheel hardness) and material (wheel material). In many embodiments, the support can have two or more wheels, three or more wheels, four or more wheels, five or more wheels or six or more wheels. For example, in many embodiments, the skateboard support can have two wheels, three wheels, four wheels, five wheels, six wheels or seven wheels.

[0094] In many embodiments, the diameter of one or more wheels is between 40 mm and 76 mm. In other embodiments, the wheel diameter can range from 40 mm to 42 mm, 42 mm to 44 mm, 44 mm to 46 mm, 46 mm to 48 mm, 48 mm to 50 mm, 50 mm to 52 mm, 52 mm to 54 mm, 54 mm to 56 mm, 56 mm to 58 mm, 58 mm to 60 mm, 60 mm to 62 mm, 62 mm to 64 mm, 64 mm to 66 mm, 66 mm to 68 mm, 68 mm to 70 mm, 70 mm to 72 mm, 72 mm to 74 mm, or 74 mm to 76 mm. In some embodiments, the wheel diameter of one or more wheels may be 40mm, 41mm, 42mm, 43mm, 44mm, 45mm, 46mm, 47mm, 48mm, 49mm, 50mm, 51mm, 52mm, 53mm, 54mm, 55mm, 56mm, 57mm, 58mm, 59mm, 60mm, 61mm, 62mm, 63mm, 64mm, 65mm, 66mm, 67mm, 68mm, 69mm, 70mm, 71mm, 72mm, 73mm, 74mm, 75mm, or 76mm.

[0095] One or more wheels may have equal and / or similar diameters relative to another wheel, two or more wheels, three or more wheels, four or more wheels, or five or more wheels. In alternative embodiments, one or more wheels may have different wheel diameters relative to another wheel, two or more wheels, three or more wheels, four or more wheels, or five or more wheels.

[0096] In many embodiments, the wheel hardness can vary based on the intended use of the wheel and the desired gripping ability with the ground. For example, if a user (or individual) requires the wheel to provide sufficient grip to maneuver over rough surfaces, sidewalk shrinkage joints, cracks, pebbles, rocks, etc., the hardness of multiple wheels can range from about 78a-98a. In other embodiments, the wheel hardness value can be between about 78a-80a, 80a-82a, 82a-84a, 84a-86a, 86a-88a, 88a-90a, 90a-92a, 92a-94a, 94a-96a, or 96a-98a. In some embodiments, the wheel hardness value can be 78a, 79a, 80a, 81a, 82a, 83a, 84a, 85a, 86a, 87a, 88a, 89a, 90a, 91a, 92a, 93a, 94a, 95a, 96a, 97a or 98a. In order to obtain the desired wheel hardness, the plurality of wheels can be formed of various plastic materials or plastic polyurethane materials.

[0097] 5. Wheel bearings

[0098] Each of the plurality of wheels also includes a wheel bearing set. In many illustrative embodiments, a cutout portion is formed in the center of each of the plurality of wheels to accommodate the wheel bearing set. The wheel bearing set reduces or eliminates friction between the shaft and the plurality of wheels rotating around the shaft. The cutout portion can be substantially round or circular, however, in alternative embodiments, the cutout portion can be any geometric shape that allows rotation. In many exemplary embodiments, the wheel bearing set can be in the form of a steel bearing set or a ceramic bearing set.

[0099] 6. Pivot saddle

[0100] In many embodiments, the suspension also includes a pivot saddle extending from the elongated body. The pivot saddle enables a user to change the direction of the bracket. For example, the pivot saddle can provide the ability to pivot the bracket to the left or right. The pivot saddle includes a pivot tip and a pivot body. Typically, and more preferably, the pivot saddle can be integrally connected to the elongated body and thus formed as one component. In other embodiments, the pivot saddle and the elongated body can be formed of similar or different materials. The combination of the elongated body and the pivot saddle generally outlines a triangular shape. The pivot saddle is connected and engaged to the base plate.

[0101] In many embodiments, the pivot saddle is centrally located along the elongated body relative to the first end and the second end. In alternative embodiments, the pivot saddle can be asymmetrically located along the elongated body. In many embodiments, the pivot saddle can be located between about 20% and about 80% of the total width of the elongated body (measured from the first end or the second end of the elongated body of the suspension). For example, the pivoting saddle can be positioned at approximately 20%, 21%, 22%, 23%, 24%, 25%, 26%, 27%, 28%, 29%, 30%, 31%, 32%, 33%, 34%, 35%, 36%, 37%, 38%, 39%, 40%, 41%, 42%, 43%, 44%, 45%, 46%, 47%, 48%, 49%, 50%, 51%, 52%, 53%, 54% or 55% from the first end and / or the second end.

[0102] In many embodiments, the pivot body can alone take a substantially triangular form, as shown in some exemplary embodiments below. In alternative embodiments, the pivot body can be substantially square, rectangular, curved, semicircular, parabolic, or a combination thereof.

[0103] In many embodiments, the pivot body forms a through hole (pivot body hole). Typically, the through hole has a circular or cylindrical geometry. However, in other embodiments, the through hole may be in the form of an oval, elliptical, arc-shaped, or countersunk.

[0104] The material of the pivot body can be made of any material used to make conventional skateboard stands. The pivot body of the pivot saddle can be made of any of the following or a combination thereof: 8620 alloy steel, S25C steel, carbon steel, maraging steel, 17-4 stainless steel, 1380 stainless steel, 303 stainless steel, stainless steel alloy, brushed steel, tungsten, titanium, titanium alloy, aluminum, aluminum alloy, aluminum 3003, aluminum 5052, aluminum 6061, aluminum 7075, ADC-12, aluminum A356, or any other metal suitable for generating the pivot body. In many embodiments, the pivot body is made of aluminum 6061 or a cast equivalent. The material of the pivot body can vary depending on the intended use and / or desired weight of the pivot saddle.

[0105] The pivot tip of the pivot saddle engages the pivot cup of the base plate. The pivot tip and the pivot body are combined to form a pivot saddle that allows the bracket to be manipulated in both left and / or right directions. The pivot tip can be integrally formed with the pivot body to form a single continuous structure.

[0106] In many embodiments, the pivot tip is widest at a surface adjacent to the pivot body and tapers (i.e., the width decreases with increasing distance from the adjacent surface) as the pivot tip is further spaced from the adjacent surface. At the point furthest from the adjacent surface, the pivot tip is substantially pointed and / or tipped. The arrangement and interaction of the pivot saddle and the pivot cup will be described in more detail below.

[0107] The material of the pivot end can be made of any material used to make conventional skateboard stands. The pivot end of the pivot saddle can be made of any of the following or a combination thereof: 8620 alloy steel, S25C steel, carbon steel, maraging steel, 17-4 stainless steel, 1380 stainless steel, 303 stainless steel, stainless steel alloy, brushed steel, tungsten, titanium, titanium alloy, aluminum, aluminum alloy, aluminum 3003, aluminum 5052, aluminum 6061, aluminum 7075, ADC-12, aluminum A356, or any metal suitable for generating the pivot end. In many embodiments, the pivot end can be made of aluminum 6061 or a cast equivalent. The material of the pivot end can vary depending on the intended use and / or desired weight of the pivot saddle.

[0108] 7.Substrate

[0109] As previously mentioned, the base plate is configured to receive a portion of the suspension, and more specifically, the base plate is configured to receive a portion of the pivoting saddle. In many embodiments, the pivoting end of the pivoting saddle protrudes from the elongated body of the suspension to engage a portion of the base plate. The suspension and the base plate are thereby fixed together. The base plate can be defined as the part of the mobile wheel platform (or bracket) that couples, connects, attaches and / or links the elongated body, multiple wheels and pivoting saddle to a given device to create a "mobile device".

[0110] The base plate forms a plurality of bolt receiving ports, at least one kingpin receiving port, and at least one pivot cup receiving port. These receiving ports provide receiving geometry for a plurality of bolts, a kingpin, and a pivot end of a pivot saddle, respectively, thereby securing the mobile wheel platform or bracket to a given device.

[0111] In many embodiments, the plurality of bolt receiving ports (of the substrate) are proximate to the outer perimeter or outer peripheral edge of the substrate. Additionally, in many embodiments, the plurality of bolt receiving ports are threaded ("threaded bolt receiving ports"). The geometric features of the bolt receiving ports (i.e., thread type, number of threads, thread pitch, etc.) can vary based on the geometric features of the corresponding fasteners that are configured to be received within the bolt receiving ports.

[0112] For example, and by way of non-limiting example, the base plate may have two bolt receiving ports, three bolt receiving ports, four bolt receiving ports, five bolt receiving ports, six bolt receiving ports, or seven bolt receiving ports. As will be seen and further described below, the base plate may include at least four bolt receiving ports. This provides sufficient structural rigidity to secure the base plate to a given device (i.e., to secure a skateboard bracket to a skateboard deck).

[0113] The kingpin receiving hole (of the base plate) can be located at the center of the base plate relative to the peripheral wall of the base plate. In many embodiments, the kingpin receiving hole can be threaded or unthreaded. The geometric characteristics of the kingpin receiving hole (i.e., thread type, number of threads, pitch, etc.) can vary based on the type and geometry of the kingpin. As will be seen and further described in the embodiments below, the kingpin receiving hole can be located in front of the pivot cup of the base plate. In many embodiments, the kingpin can be a hollow screw that connects the elongated hollow body and the pivot saddle together to the base plate (at the hole in the pivot body). This arrangement connects the elongated hollow body and the pivot saddle to the base plate.

[0114] The material of the substrate can be made of any material used to make conventional skateboard stands. The substrate can be made of any one or combination of the following: 8620 alloy steel, S25C steel, carbon steel, maraging steel, 17-4 stainless steel, 1380 stainless steel, 303 stainless steel, stainless steel alloy, brushed steel, tungsten, titanium, titanium alloy, aluminum, aluminum alloy, aluminum 3003, aluminum 5052, aluminum 6061, aluminum 7075, ADC-12, aluminum A356, or any metal suitable for generating the substrate. In many embodiments, the substrate is made of aluminum 6061. The material of the substrate can vary depending on the intended use and / or desired weight of the substrate.

[0115] 8. Pivoting cup bushing

[0116] The pivot cup receiving port (of the base plate) can be located at the center of the base plate relative to the peripheral wall (of the base plate). In many embodiments, the pivot cup receiving port can be configured to receive a pivot cup bushing. The pivot cup bushing is typically constructed of a different material than the pivot cup receiving port. For example, in many embodiments, the pivot cup bushing can be constructed of plastic, polyurethane, or Delrin material. As can be seen from the embodiments below, the pivot cup receiving port can be located behind the kingpin receiving hole of the base plate.

[0117] The pivot tip of the pivot saddle can be configured to be received in the pivot cup bushing, and likewise, the pivot cup bushing is configured to be received in the pivot cup receiving port. The combination of the pivot tip, the pivot cup bushing and the pivot cup receiving port results in less metal-to-metal friction and more efficient pivoting, turning and / or changing of the skateboard stand in different directions.

[0118] 9. Arms

[0119] The suspension also includes one or more arms rotatably coupled to the elongated body of the suspension. In many of the illustrated embodiments, the one or more arms may be located on opposite sides of the pivoting saddle, or alternatively, the combination of the pivoting saddle and the one or more arms may generate a stop. Thus, a mechanical lock is established to prevent over-extension or over-rotation of the one or more arms.

[0120] One or more arms include a first segment and a second segment. The first segment can be considered a leading segment and is in front of the second segment ("rear segment"). The second segment can also be considered a trailing segment and is behind the first segment. In many embodiments, such as Figure 1-4 As shown, the first segment can have a length close to or equal to the second segment. In other embodiments, the length of the first segment can be 15% to 35% longer than the length of the second segment. In other embodiments, the first segment can be between 15%-17%, between 17%-19%, between 19%-21%, between 21%-23%, between 23%-25%, between 25%-27%, between 27%-29%, between 29%-31%, between 31%-33%, and between 33%-35% longer than the second segment. In many embodiments, the first segment can be 15%, 16%, 17%, 18%, 19%, 20%, 21%, 22%, 23%, 24%, 25%, 26%, 27%, 28%, 29%, 30%, 31%, 32%, 33%, 34%, or 35% longer than the second segment.

[0121] The first section and the second section of one or more arms can be formed together to be substantially coplanar with each other. In other embodiments, the first section and the second section can be at an angle between 160 and 180 degrees relative to each other. For example, in some embodiments, the angle between the first section and the second section can be approximately between 160 and 165 degrees, between 165 and 170 degrees, between 170 and 175 degrees, or between 175 and 180 degrees. In alternative embodiments, the angle between the first section and the second section can be 160, 161, 162, 163, 164, 165, 166, 167, 168, 169, 170, 171, 172, 173, 174, 175, 176, 177, 178, 179, or 180 degrees.

[0122] One or more arms may also include a front region similar to the first segment, a rear region similar to the second segment, and a middle region between the first segment and the second segment. The front region forms a first hole (also referred to as a "front hole"). The middle region forms a second hole (also referred to as a "middle hole"). The rear region forms a third hole (also referred to as a "rear hole"). The hole may be in the form of a through hole, a hole, a cylindrical hole, and / or a circular hole. The diameters of the first hole ("front hole"), the second hole ("middle hole"), and the third hole ("rear hole") may be equal to or different from each other.

[0123] The diameter of the front hole, the middle hole, and the rear hole can be between 0.25 inches and 1.01 inches. In many embodiments, the front hole, the middle hole, and the rear hole can range from 0.25 inches to 0.27 inches, 0.27 inches to 0.29 inches, 0.29 inches to 0.31 inches, 0.31 inches to 0.33 inches, 0.33 inches to 0.35 inches, 0.35 inches to 0.37 inches, 0.37 inches to 0.39 inches, 0.39 inches to 0.41 inches, 0.41 inches to 0.51 inches, 0.51 inches to 0.52 inches, 0.53 inches to 0.54 inches, 0.55 inches to 0.56 inches, 0.57 inches to 0.58 inches, 0.59 inches to 0.60 inches, 0.61 inches to 0.62 inches, 0.63 inches to 0.64 inches, 0.65 inches to 0.66 inches, 0.67 inches to 0.68 inches, 0.69 inches to 0.70 inches, 0.71 inches to 0.72 inches, 0.72 inches to 0.73 inches, 0.73 inches to 0.74 inches, 0.75 inches to 0.76 inches, 0.77 inches to 0.78 inches, 0.79 inches to 0.79 inches, 0.80 inches to 0.81 inches, 0.82 inches to 0.83 inches, 0.84 inches to 0.85 inches, 0.86 inches to 0.87 inches, 0.88 inches to 0.89 inches, 0.81 inches to 0.8 0.43 inches, 0.43 inches to 0.45 inches, 0.45 inches to 0.47 inches, 0.47 inches to 0.49 inches, 0.49 inches to 0.51 inches, 0.51 inches to 0.53 inches, 0.53 inches to 0.55 inches, 0.55 inches to 0.57 inches, 0.57 inches to 0.59 inches, 0.59 inches to 0.61 inches, 0.61 inches inch-0.63 inch, 0.63 inch-0.65 inch, 0.65 inch-0.67 inch, 0.67 inch-0.69 inch, 0.69 inch-0.71 inch, 0.71 inch-0.73 inch, 0.73 inch-0.75 inch, 0.75 inch-0.77 inch, 0.69 inch-0.71 inch, 0.79 inch-0.81 inch, 0.8 In some embodiments, the front hole, the middle hole, and the rear hole may be about 0.25 inch, about 0.30 inch, about 0.35 inch, about 0.40 inch, about 0.45 inch, or about 0.50 inch.

[0124] The front hole of one or more arms can be configured to receive a front axle and a corresponding front wheel. The rear hole of one or more arms can be configured to receive a rear axle and a corresponding rear wheel. The middle hole of one or more arms can be configured to concentrically attach, link and / or couple to the elongated body of the suspension. This concentric connection between the middle hole of one or more arms and the elongated body of the suspension forms a lever arm, which can also be referred to as a pivot arm. This allows one or more arms to rotate and / or pivot relative to the elongated body.

[0125] As described above, the lever arm (or "pivot arm") rotates about the elongated body. This type of rotation and / or pivoting enables the front and / or rear wheels to climb or slide over foreign object debris, such as sidewall shrinkage seams, pebbles, small rocks, uneven surfaces, or other debris that may be present on the ground. Some advantages and benefits of the lever arm are further discussed in the "Advantages" section.

[0126] 10. Rotation inhibition structure

[0127] The bracket may also include one or more rotation inhibiting structures. The rotation inhibiting structure prevents the lever arm (or pivot arm) from over-rotating beyond a predetermined angle. The rotation inhibiting structure may be in a variety of forms. For example, in one embodiment, the rotation inhibiting structure may protrude or extend from the bracket component (i.e., the pivot body) as a whole. In another embodiment, the bracket component may form a rotation inhibiting structure, which may take the form of a notch, gap, slot, or slit. The rotation inhibiting structure advantageously prevents the lever arm or pivot arm from over-rotating to a point where the front wheel or rear wheel contacts the bottom surface of the skateboard deck during engagement of the skateboard or longboard.

[0128] In an exemplary embodiment, when the front and rear wheels of the lever arm or pivot arm are on the ground, the rotation inhibition structure prevents the front and rear ends of the pivot arm from rotating upward more than 50 degrees. In other embodiments, the rotation inhibition structure can prevent the front and rear ends of the pivot arm from rotating upward more than 45 degrees, 40 degrees, 35 degrees, 30 degrees, 25 degrees, 20 degrees, 15 degrees, 10 degrees or 5 degrees. In alternative embodiments, the predetermined range of motion of the front and rear ends of the lever arm (or pivot arm) can be approximately between 0 degrees and 45 degrees, between 0 degrees and 40 degrees, between 0 degrees and 35 degrees, between 0 degrees and 30 degrees, between 0 degrees and 25 degrees, between 0 degrees and 20 degrees, between 0 degrees and 15 degrees, between 0 degrees and 10 degrees or between 0 degrees and 5 degrees.

[0129] The 0 degree reference angle is defined as the position where both the front wheel and the rear wheel of the lever arm or pivot arm are on substantially flat ground. When the pivot arm is rotated upward (i.e., the vertical distance of the front wheel or the rear wheel relative to the bottom surface of the skateboard deck is shorter than the vertical distance of the front wheel and the rear wheel relative to the bottom surface of the skateboard deck in the static position (on substantially flat ground)), the effect of the rotation inhibiting structure is exhibited when the pivot arm or the lever arm reaches a predetermined rotation threshold angle.

[0130] 11. Friction reducing elements

[0131] In many exemplary embodiments, the bracket preferably includes a friction reducing element. Typically, the friction reducing element is a component between the elongated body of the suspension and one or more arms (it can also be defined as a medium between the middle hole of one or more arms and the elongated body). The friction reducing element reduces the magnitude of the friction between the elongated body of the suspension and one or more arms. Specifically, in many embodiments, the friction reducing element prevents material wear. In alternative embodiments, the friction reducing element can be in the form of a flange. In other embodiments, the friction reducing element can be cylindrical, arc-shaped, circular or tubular to complement the shape of the middle hole of one or more arms.

[0132] The friction reducing element may be made of any one or combination of the following: nylon, polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene, polypropylene or any plastic suitable for reducing friction between two materials. In some embodiments, the friction reducing element is composed of nylon material.

[0133] I. advantage

[0134] The mobile wheel platforms described herein advantageously enhance self-propelled devices or self-propelled apparatuses. Specifically, by creating a mobile wheel platform ("skateboard stand" or "stand") that, when fully assembled ("stand assembly"), includes a rotation inhibiting structure and a pivot / lever arm portion, the stand assembly effectively maneuvers over foreign objects (such as, but not limited to, sidewalk shrinkage joints, pebbles, rocks, cracks, or similar objects that create interference between the wheels and the ground) (when the self-propelled apparatus is in motion).

[0135] In many embodiments, the mobile wheel platform (or skateboard support) includes four or more wheels. These wheels can be arranged in a diamond shape. The first wheel and the second wheel (two of the four wheels) can be attached to each end of the elongated body. The third wheel and the fourth wheel (the other two wheels of the four wheels) can be attached to the front and rear sections of one or more pivot / lever arms. This type of wheel arrangement evenly distributes the force loaded on the support to generate a balanced support, more effectively sliding and / or climbing over the sidewalk contraction joints and / or other types of surface cracks. This advantageously prevents (or reduces) multiple wheels of the mobile wheel platform from entering the sidewalk contraction joints or cracks (or reduces the degree to which multiple wheels descend relative to the sidewalk contraction joints or cracks). Thereby preventing the wheels from engaging or getting stuck in the sidewalk contraction joints or surface cracks. Therefore, the possibility that an individual may lose balance and / or power is eliminated or greatly reduced.

[0136] Another advantageous aspect of the mobile wheel platform described herein is having one or more arms that are concentrically, pivotally and / or rotatably coupled to the elongated body of the suspension. By enabling one or more arms to rotate or pivot about the elongated body of the suspension, the leading or trailing segments can be rotated upwardly away from the ground at any given moment. For example, one or more arms that are concentrically and pivotally coupled to the elongated body of the suspension can rotate based on movement of the center of mass of the skateboard (i.e., repositioning of the skater's mass on the skateboard deck caused by a slope, a turn, etc.).

[0137] Another advantageous aspect of the mobile wheel platform described herein is having one or more rotation inhibiting structures. Integrating the rotation inhibiting structure into the mobile wheel platform or bracket mechanically prevents one or more pivoting arms from over-rotating beyond a predetermined rotation angle. This advantageously prevents the multiple wheels positioned at the first section and / or the tail section from accidentally contacting the bottom portion of the skateboard deck.

[0138] Another advantageous aspect of the mobile wheel platform described herein is the presence of at least one friction reducing element. The friction reducing element can be positioned between the middle hole of one or more arms and the elongated body of the suspension. The friction reducing element advantageously reduces the friction between the cylindrical body of the suspension and the one or more arms. In addition, the friction reducing element can prevent material wear between the one or more arms and the elongated body of the suspension.

[0139] II. Embodiment

[0140] At least some exemplary embodiments of mobile wheel platforms according to the present invention are described herein, including skateboard stands and longboard stands. Such devices may include all or some of the aforementioned components, features and advantages.

[0141] Skateboard Stand I

[0142] Figure 1-Figure 7 An embodiment of a mobile wheel platform (or stand) is shown. The stand described herein includes an elongated body having a pivot saddle protruding (or extending) from the elongated body. The pivot saddle 105 is configured to have one or more rotation inhibiting structures 127 that protrude (or extend) outward toward the first end 130 and / or the second end 131 of the elongated body 102. The one or more rotation inhibiting structures 127 can be adjacent to the pivot saddle and on opposite sides of the pivot saddle and spaced apart from the elongated body 102. The spacing formed between the one or more rotation inhibiting structures 127 can be adapted to accommodate a complementary (relative to the rotation inhibiting structures) mid-region geometry of one or more arms 117.

[0143] Specifically, Figure 1 A mobile wheel platform in the form of a skateboard stand 100 is shown. Figure 2 Shows Figure 1 A partially exploded view of the skateboard stand. Figure 3 Shows Figure 1 A magnified view of a skateboard stand. Figure 4 Shows Figure 1 Partial components of a skateboard stand. Figure 5 and Figure 6 The individual bracket components and the arms of the suspension are shown separately. Figure 7 Shows Figure 3 Another perspective view of .

[0144] Figure 1 An example of a skateboard stand being ridden by a rider (not shown) is shown. The rider has weight (i.e., but not limited to, a helmet, wrist guards, elbow and knee pads, as appropriate, and any other items carried or supported by the rider, such as a backpack).

[0145] Continue to refer Figure 1 , the bracket 100 is attached to the bottom surface 112 of the skateboard deck 111. The skateboard deck 111 includes a top surface 113 that supports a skater (not shown). In this embodiment, the skateboard includes a front bracket 100 and a rear bracket 200. The front bracket and the rear bracket share similar components and designs. The front bracket 100 can be attached to the bottom surface 112 of the skateboard deck 111 at a front portion 114 of the skateboard deck. The rear bracket 200 can be attached to the bottom surface 112 of the skateboard deck 111 at a rear portion of the skateboard deck 111.

[0146] Figure 1 and Figure 4Further shown is an assembled arrangement of the above-described components forming the front bracket 100 and the rear bracket 200. In this exemplary embodiment, the components of the front bracket 100 and the rear bracket 200 include a suspension 101 having an elongated body 102 and a pivot saddle 105 (the pivot saddle 105 includes a pivot body 106 and a pivot end 107), at least four shafts 103, a base plate 108, at least two arms 117, at least two rotation inhibiting structures 127, and at least two friction reducing elements 126.

[0147] a. Long body

[0148] The elongated body 102 may be sized to be approximately Figure 1 As shown (also in Figure 4 and Figure 5 As described above, the width of the elongated body 102 can range from about 4 inches to about 10 inches. Specifically, the width of the elongated body 102 can be about 4 inches, about 5 inches, about 6 inches, about 7 inches, about 8 inches, about 9 inches, or about 10 inches. In alternative embodiments, the width of the elongated body 102 can be about 4 inches-about 5 inches, about 5 inches-about 6 inches, about 6 inches-about 7 inches, about 7 inches-about 8 inches, about 8 inches-about 9 inches, or about 9 inches-about 10 inches. In this embodiment, the width of the elongated body 102 can be about 7 inches.

[0149] The elongated body 102 forms a void 129 extending from and partially through the first end 130 and the second end 131 of the elongated body 102. As described above, the void 129 of the elongated body extends from 5% to 45% of the width of the elongated body at each end of the corresponding elongated body end (i.e., the first end 130 and the second end 131). For example, the void can extend through each end of the elongated body 102 to 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, or 45% of the width of the elongated body. In other embodiments, the voids may extend between approximately 1%-5%, 5%-10%, 10%-15%, 15%-20%, 20%-25%, 25%-30%, 30%-35%, 35%-40%, or 40%-45% (of the width of the elongated body) through each end (the first end and the second end) of the elongated body 102. In alternative embodiments, the voids may extend through each end of the elongated body a distance that is less than the overall width of the elongated body 102. In this illustrative example, each void formed in part by the first end 130 and the second end 131 extends approximately 20% of the width of the elongated body 102.

[0150] b. Axis

[0151] Each void 129 formed by the elongated body 102 may also be threaded and configured to receive a partially threaded shaft 103. The void 129 and shaft 103 are arranged together to form a threaded engagement. In this illustrative embodiment, the shaft 103 is made of a metallic material, more specifically steel or a steel alloy. The length of the shaft 103 will vary based on the characteristics (i.e., size, etc.) of the void 129. This specific embodiment shows a bracket including at least four shafts. As will be further discussed below, each shaft is configured to receive at least one wheel 104.

[0152] Figure 1-Figure 7 It is further shown that each axle 103 of the elongated body 102 connected to the suspension 101 is configured to hold at least one wheel 104. In this arrangement, the wheels are located near the first end 130 and the second end 131 of the elongated body 102. Therefore, the terminology throughout the specification may consider the wheel 104 near the first end 130 of the elongated body 102 to be a left-side wheel. Similarly, the terminology throughout the specification may consider the wheel 104 near the second end 131 of the elongated body 102 to be a right-side wheel.

[0153] c. Pivoting saddle

[0154] The elongated body 102 of the suspension 101 is integrally connected to a pivoting saddle 105 (see Figure 5 ). The pivot saddle 105 enables the wheel 104 to rotate or change the direction of the skateboard deck 111. In this particular embodiment, the pivot saddle 105 is symmetrically positioned relative to the width of the elongated body 102. As described above, the pivot saddle 105 includes a pivot body 106 (which forms the hole 132) and a pivot end 107. The hole 132 of the pivot body 106 includes a diameter of approximately 0.5 inches. In alternative embodiments, the diameter of the pivot body hole 132 can range between approximately 0.2 inches and approximately 3 inches.

[0155] The pivot body and the pivot end combine to form a pivot body length 133. The pivot body length 133 can range from 1 inch to 5 inches. Specifically, the pivot body length 133 can be 1 inch, 1.5 inches, 2 inches, 2.5 inches, 3 inches, 3.5 inches, 4 inches, 4.5 inches, or 5 inches. In an illustrative embodiment, the pivot body length 133 can be approximately 2.5 inches. The pivot body length 133 can vary based on the intended use of the skater. For example, if the user wants a stand that is more sensitive to movement in the left and / or right directions, a shorter pivot body length 133 (i.e., less than 2.5 inches) may be desired, whereas, for a less sensitive stand, a longer pivot body length 133 (i.e., greater than 2.5 inches) may be desired. However, a shorter pivot body length can cause wheel bite (wheel contact with the bottom surface of the skateboard), which creates a need for a rotation inhibition structure 127.

[0156] d. Rotational inhibition structure

[0157] The pivoting saddle 105 of the suspension 101 also includes an integrally connected rotation inhibiting structure 127. The rotation inhibiting structure prevents one or more arms 117 from over-rotating to a point where the wheel 104 engages the bottom surface 112 of the skateboard deck 111. Figure 1-Figure 7 As shown, the rotation inhibiting structure 127 is adjacent to, coplanar with, and on opposite sides of the pivot saddle 105, and the rotation inhibiting structure 127 is spaced apart from the elongated body 102. In an alternative embodiment, only one rotation inhibiting structure 127 is needed to prevent excessive rotation of the arms 117 because the arms 117 are coupled to each other by the shaft. Therefore, the arms 117 move, rotate, and stop in unison.

[0158] The rotation inhibiting structure separation distance may be defined as measured perpendicularly from the elongated body 102 to the rotation inhibiting structure 127. The rotation inhibiting structure separation distance may range between 0.125 inches to 3 inches. Specifically, the rotation inhibiting structure spacing distance may be between 0.125 inches and 0.225 inches, between 0.225 inches and 0.325 inches, between 0.325 inches and 0.425 inches, between 0.425 inches and 0.525 inches, between 0.525 inches and 0.625 inches, between 0.625 inches and 0.725 inches, between 0.725 inches and 0.825 inches, between 0.825 inches and 0.925 inches, between 0.925 inches and 1.025 inches, between 1.025 inches and 1.125 inches, between 1.125 inches and 1.225 inches, between 1.225 inches and 1.325 inches, between 1.325 inches and 1.425 inches, between 1.425 inches and 1.525 inches, Between 1.525 inches and 1.625 inches, between 1.625 inches and 1.725 inches, between 1.725 inches and 1.825 inches, between 1.825 inches and 1.925 inches, between 1.925 inches and 2.025 inches, between 2.025 inches and 2.125 inches, between 2.125 inches and 2.225 inches, between 2.225 inches and 2.325 inches, between 2.325 inches and 2.425 inches, between 2.425 inches and 2.525 inches, between 2.525 inches and 2.625 inches, between 2.625 inches and 2.725 inches, between 2.725 inches and 2.825 inches, between 2.825 inches and 2.925 inches, and between 2.925 inches and 3.025 inches.

[0159] The geometry of the rotation inhibiting structure 127 of this exemplary embodiment includes a central portion 134 including a semicircular profile and elongated end protrusions 135 connected to both sides of the semicircular profile.

[0160] As previously described, the center portion 134 of the rotation inhibiting structure 127 includes a semicircular profile. The diameter of the semicircular profile of the center portion 134 can be in the range of 0.1 inches to about 1 inch. For example, in some embodiments, the diameter of the semicircular profile can be 0.1 inches, 0.2 inches, 0.3 inches, 0.4 inches, 0.5 inches, 0.6 inches, 0.7 inches, 0.8 inches, 0.9 inches, or 1 inch. In other embodiments, the diameter of the semicircular profile can be between 0.1 inches and 0.3 inches, between 0.3 inches and 0.5 inches, between 0.5 inches and 0.8 inches, or between 0.8 inches and 1.1 inches.

[0161] As described above, the semicircular profile of the center portion 134 is connected to the elongated end protrusions 135 that protrude from the semicircular profile. The elongated end protrusions 135 can generally take any shape, length, or geometry so long as the elongated end protrusions are configured to limit the rotation of one or more arms 117 to a predetermined angle. In many embodiments, the elongated end protrusions 135 can be non-circular or non-elliptical. In the illustrative embodiment, the length of the rotation inhibiting structure is approximately 2.5 inches (measured in the longitudinal direction of the skateboard). When a portion of the arm contacts a portion of the rotation inhibiting structure 127, the rotation of one or more arms 117 is limited, thereby forming a mechanical stop (see Figure 7 ).

[0162] As previously described, the length of the rotation inhibiting structure is measured along the direction extending along the longitudinal axis of the skateboard deck 111. In many embodiments, the length of the rotation inhibiting structure can range from about 0.5 inches to about 4 inches. For example, the length of the rotation inhibiting structure can be between 0.5 inches and 0.75 inches, between 0.75 inches and 1.00 inches, between 1.0 inches and 1.25 inches, between 1.25 inches and 1.50 inches, between 1.50 inches and 1.75 inches, between 1.75 inches and 2.00 inches, between 2.00 inches and 2.25 inches, between 2.25 inches and 2.50 inches, between 2.50 inches and 2.75 inches, between 2.75 inches and 3.00 inches, between 3.00 inches and 3.25 inches, between 3.25 inches and 3.50 inches, between 3.50 inches and 3.75 inches, or between 3.75 inches and 4.00 inches.

[0163] The width of the rotation inhibiting structure 127 may vary based on the width of the one or more arms. Typically, the width of the rotation inhibiting structure 127 may be approximately the same as the width of the one or more arms 117, or less than the width of the one or more arms 117. Constraining the width to be approximately equal to or less than the width of the one or more arms 117 ensures that sufficient surface area of ​​the rotation inhibiting structure 127 contacts the one or more arms 117 to prevent excessive rotation.

[0164] In this embodiment, the width of the rotation inhibiting structure 127 is approximately 0.375 inches. However, in other embodiments, the width of the rotation inhibiting structure can vary from 0.125 inches to approximately 0.6 inches. For example, the width of the rotation inhibiting structure can be between 0.125 inches and 0.145 inches, between 0.145 inches and 0.165 inches, between 0.165 inches and 0.185 inches, between 0.185 inches and 0.205 inches, between 0.205 inches and 0.225 inches, between 0.225 inches and 0.245 inches, between 0.245 inches and 0.265 inches, between 0.265 inches and 0.285 inches, between 0.285 inches and 0.305 inches, between 0.305 inches and 0.325 inches, between 0.325 inches and 0.345 inches, or between 0.345 inches and 0. 365 inches, between 0.365 inches and 0.385 inches, between 0.385 inches and 0.405 inches, between 0.405 inches and 0.425 inches, between 0.425 inches and 0.445 inches, between 0.445 inches and 0.465 inches, between 0.465 inches and 0.485 inches, between 0.485 inches and 0.505 inches, between 0.505 inches and 0.525 inches, between 0.525 inches and 0.555 inches, between 0.555 inches and 0.575 inches, between 0.575 inches and 0.595 inches, and between 0.595 inches and 0.615 inches.

[0165] e.Arm

[0166] like Figure 6 As shown, the middle region 121 of the arm 117 is positioned in the interval (or gap) between the rotation inhibition structure 127 and the elongated body 102. As described above, one or more arms may also include a front region similar to the first segment, a rear region similar to the second segment, and a middle region between the first segment and the second segment. In some embodiments, the first segment 118 and the second segment 119 of the arm 117 are equal in length and coplanar with each other. In other embodiments, the length of the arm 117 may range from about 4 inches to about 9 inches. The length of the arm 117 may be between about 4 inches and about 5 inches, between about 5 inches and about 6 inches, between about 6 inches and about 7 inches, between about 7 inches and about 8 inches, or between about 8 inches and about 9 inches. In other embodiments, the length of the arm 117 may be about 4 inches, about 5 inches, about 6 inches, about 7 inches, about 8 inches, or about 9 inches.

[0167] Figure 3 Shows Figure 1 Close-up of; Figure 3It is shown that one or more arms 117 can be divided into a front region 120, a middle region 121, and a rear region 122. As previously described, the front region 120 is similar to the first section 118, the rear region 122 is similar to the second section 119, and the middle region 121 is between the front region 120 and the rear region 122.

[0168] Figure 3 Further shown is a front region 120 forming a front hole 123, a middle region 121 forming a middle hole 124, and a rear region 122 forming a rear hole 125. In the illustrated embodiment, the front hole 123 and the rear hole 125 include a smaller diameter relative to the diameter of the middle hole 124. Specifically, the diameters of the front hole 123 and the rear hole 125 are approximately 0.3 inches, and the diameter of the middle hole 124 is approximately 0.8 inches.

[0169] Figure 1-Figure 4 It is further shown that the front hole 123 and the rear hole 125 of each arm 117 can be configured to receive the shaft 103. Each shaft 103 is configured to hold a wheel 104. In this arrangement, at least two wheels 104 are positioned between (or enclosed by) the arms 117 (or the first arm and the second arm). In other words, at least two wheels are pinned between the two arms 117. Therefore, the terminology throughout the specification may consider the wheel 104 near the front hole 123 of the arm 117 to be the head wheel and / or the front wheel. Similarly, the terminology throughout the specification may consider the wheel 104 near the rear hole 125 of the arm 117 to be the tail wheel and / or the rear wheel.

[0170] f. Friction reducing elements

[0171] Reference again Figure 1-Figure 4 , embodiments of the brackets 100, 200 also include a friction reducing element 126 configured to be received within the middle hole 124 of the arm portion 117 (i.e., the first arm portion and the second arm portion). In the case of this embodiment, the friction reducing element is constructed of a nylon material, and the width and diameter of the friction reducing element are approximately the same as the width of the arm portion 117 and the diameter of the middle hole 124, respectively.

[0172] g.Substrate

[0173] As previously mentioned, the base plate 108 is a component of the bracket that couples the elongated body 102, wheels 104, and pivoting saddle 105 to the skateboard deck 111 (see FIG. Figure 1 ). The base plate forms a plurality of bolt receiving ports 109, at least one kingpin receiving hole 116 and at least one pivot cup receiving port 115. These receiving ports provide receiving geometry for a plurality of bolts, a kingpin and a pivot end of a pivot saddle, respectively, thereby securing the mobile wheel platform or bracket to a given device.

[0174] The aforementioned arrangement of the bracket components described herein enables an individual riding a skateboard or longboard to more effectively maneuver over cracks in a sidewalk because the configuration of the bracket components enables the wheel (coupled to the elongated body of the suspension) to be suspended over the contraction joint (i.e., preventing the wheel from dropping into the crack when the user moves over the contraction joint). In addition, the rotation inhibition structure prevents the wheel coupled to the rotatable arm 117 from contacting the bottom portion of the skateboard (i.e., preventing the wheel from biting).

[0175] Skateboard Stand II

[0176] Figure 8-Figure 11 Another embodiment of a mobile wheel platform (or stand) is shown. The stand described herein includes an elongated body 302 having a pivoting saddle 305 protruding (or extending) from the elongated body 302. The elongated body 302 and the pivoting saddle 305 cooperate to form one or more rotation inhibiting structures 327 in the form of a void. In many embodiments, one or more arms 317 can be positioned in the space formed by the void defined by the rotation inhibiting structure 327.

[0177] One or more arms 317 also include a first rotation inhibiting protrusion 341 and a second rotation inhibiting protrusion 342 that extend outwardly away from the arm 317. When the arm 317 is assembled to the suspension, the first rotation inhibiting protrusion 341 and the second rotation inhibiting protrusion 342 form an overlapping structure that surrounds (or surrounds) a portion of the pivot body 306. When the arm 317 begins to rotate / pivot away from the ground, the first rotation inhibiting protrusion 341 and the second rotation inhibiting protrusion 342 can contact the pivot body 306, providing a mechanical stop to prevent the arm 317 from over-rotating.

[0178] Figure 8 An exploded view of a mobile wheel platform according to some aspects of the present invention is shown. Fig. 9 It is further shown that according to some aspects of the present invention, a mobile wheel platform (or bracket) 300 can be mounted to a longboard or another device. Fig.10 and Fig.11 The arm and suspension are shown separately.

[0179] exist Figure 8-Figure 11 In an embodiment of the present invention, the bracket 300 includes multiple components, and the bracket 300 includes a suspension 301 having an elongated body 302, an axis 303, a pivot saddle 305 having a pivot body 306 and a pivot end 307, a base plate 308, at least two arms 317, at least two rotation inhibiting structures 327 and at least two friction reducing elements 326.

[0180] I. Long body

[0181] The elongated body 302 of this embodiment is configured to be approximately equal to the skateboard deck 311 ( Fig. 9 ). As previously mentioned, the width of the elongated body 302 can range from about 4 inches to about 10 inches. Specifically, the width of the elongated body 302 can be 4 inches, 5 inches, 6 inches, 7 inches, 8 inches, 9 inches, or 10 inches. In the exemplary embodiment, the width of the elongated body 302 is approximately 7 inches.

[0182] The elongated body 302 forms a hole 329 that extends completely through the first end 330 and the second end 331 of the elongated body 302. In other words, the hole 329 extends completely (100%) through the width of the elongated body 302. In this embodiment, the elongated body is formed from aluminum 6061 or a cast equivalent aluminum A356.

[0183] II. Axis

[0184] The hole 329 defined by the elongated body 302 is configured to rigidly receive a shaft 303. Specifically, compared to the previous embodiment ( Figure 1-Figure 7 ), this embodiment requires only one axle. This not only requires fewer parts than the previous embodiment, but also enables the elongated body to better support the axle because more surface area of ​​the elongated body engages the axle. In this embodiment, the axle 303 is composed of a metallic material, and more specifically, steel or a steel alloy. The length of the axle 303 will vary based on the width of the elongated body 302. As will be discussed further below, each axle is configured to receive one or more wheels 304.

[0185] The shaft 303 includes four sections. The first section of the shaft is proximate the first end of the elongated body. The second section of the shaft is proximate the second end of the elongated body. The third section of the shaft is located between the first and second sections. The fourth section of the shaft is located between the first and second sections and includes a suspension stop 346 that abuts a portion of the elongated body (and in particular the first end of the elongated body).

[0186] The suspension stop 346 wraps circumferentially around the shaft 303 and is the thickest portion of the shaft. A first section of the shaft extends from the first end of the elongated body to create a first overhanging portion. Similarly, a second section of the shaft extends from the second end of the elongated body to create a second overhanging portion. The first overhanging portion and the second overhanging portion receive the first wheel and the second wheel, respectively, for securing the first wheel and the second wheel to the shaft 303, respectively.

[0187] III. Rotational Inhibition Structure

[0188] The elongated body 302 also defines at least two rotation inhibiting structures 327 in the form of gaps, notches, slots, or slits. The rotation inhibiting structures 327 are offset and / or spaced from the first end 330 and the second end 331 of the elongated body 302. For example, Figure 8-Figure 10 In the illustrated embodiment, the rotation inhibiting structure 327 is symmetrically positioned along the width of the elongated body 302. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the rotation inhibiting structure 327 is offset from the first end 330 and the second end 331 of the elongated body by approximately 34%.

[0189] However, in alternative embodiments, the rotation inhibiting structure 327 can be offset by 5% to 50% from the first end 330 or the second end 331 of the elongated body. For example, in many embodiments, the offset distance between the first end and the rotation inhibiting structure 327 or the second end and the rotation inhibiting structure 327 can be 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 11%, 12%, 13%, 14%, 15%, 16%, 17%, 18%, 19%, 20%, 21%, 22%, 23%, 24%, 25%, 26%, 27%, 28%, 29%, 30%, 31%, 32%, 33%, 34%, 35%, 36%, 37%, 38%, 39%, 40%, 41%, 42%, 43%, 44%, 45%, 46%, 47%, 48%, 49%, or 50%.

[0190] The rotation inhibiting structure 327 includes at least three interior side walls (i.e., a first interior side wall 337, a second interior side wall 338, and a third interior side wall 339) defined by the elongated body 302. The first interior wall is defined as the side wall closest to one of the first end 330 or the second end 331 of the elongated body 302. The second interior wall 338 is defined as the side wall that is closest to the side wall of the other rotation inhibiting structure 327. The third interior wall side wall 339 shares a common edge with the first interior wall 337 and the second interior wall 338. The first interior side wall 337, the second interior side wall 338, and the third interior side wall 339 form a gap therebetween. In many embodiments, where one or more side walls meet to form an edge, there may be a radius.

[0191] The distance between a pair of rotation inhibiting structures 327 may be referred to as a rotation inhibiting structure separation distance 340. The rotation inhibiting structure separation distance 340 may be defined as the distance measured between the second interior sidewalls 338 of a pair of rotation inhibiting structures. In the illustrated embodiment, the rotation inhibiting structure separation distance 340 is approximately 1.25 inches. However, in alternative embodiments, the rotation inhibiting structure separation distance 340 may range between 0.25 inches and 2 inches.

[0192] In other embodiments, the rotation inhibiting structure spacing distance 340 can range from about 0.25 inches to 0.50 inches, 0.50 inches to 0.75 inches, about 0.75 inches to 1.00 inches, about 1.00 inches to 1.25 inches, about 1.25 inches to 1.50 inches, about 1.50 inches to 1.75 inches, or about 1.75 inches to 2.00 inches. The rotation inhibiting structure can be about 0.25 inches, 0.50 inches, about 0.75 inches, about 1.00 inches, about 1.25 inches, about 1.50 inches, about 1.75 inches, or about 2.00 inches.

[0193] IV. Arm

[0194] Continue to refer Fig.10 , one or more arms 317 can be divided into a front region 320, a middle region 321, and a rear region 322. As previously described (and similar to the aforementioned arm 117), the front region 320 is similar to the first section 318, the rear region 322 is similar to the second section 319, and the middle region 321 is between the front region 320 and the rear region 322. Figure 8 and Fig.10 It is further shown that the front region 320 forms a front aperture 323, the middle region 321 forms a middle aperture 324, and the rear region 322 forms a rear aperture 325. In the illustrated embodiment, the front aperture 323 and the rear aperture 325 include a diameter that is smaller than the diameter of the middle aperture 324.

[0195] The middle region of one or more arms 317 includes a first rotation inhibiting protrusion 341 that protrudes from the middle region and the front region 320 of the arm 317, a second rotation inhibiting protrusion 342 that protrudes from the middle region and the rear region 322 of the arm 317, and a middle hole 324. The first rotation inhibiting protrusion 341 is closer to the front region 320 of the arm 317 than to the rear region 322 of the arm 317. The second rotation inhibiting protrusion 342 is closer to the rear region 322 than to the front region 320.

[0196] The imaginary centerline axis is symmetrically positioned between the first rotation inhibiting protrusion 341 and the second rotation inhibiting protrusion 342, and extends through the center point of the intermediate hole 324. Therefore, a first rotation inhibiting protrusion angle is formed between the centerline axis and the first rotation inhibiting protrusion, and a second rotation inhibiting protrusion angle is formed between the centerline axis and the second rotation inhibiting protrusion.

[0197] The first rotation inhibition angle 343 may range from 2 degrees to 6 degrees. In some embodiments, the first rotation inhibition angle 343 may range from approximately 2 degrees to 2.5 degrees, 2.5 degrees to 3 degrees, 3 degrees to 3.5 degrees, 3.5 degrees to 4 degrees, 4 degrees to 4.5 degrees, 4.5 degrees to 5 degrees, 5 degrees to 5.5 degrees, or 5.5 degrees to 6 degrees. In alternative embodiments, the first rotation inhibition angle 343 may be approximately 2 degrees, approximately 2.5 degrees, approximately 3 degrees, approximately 3.5 degrees, approximately 4 degrees, approximately 4.5 degrees, approximately 5 degrees, approximately 5.5 degrees, or approximately 6 degrees. In the illustrated embodiment, the first rotation inhibition angle is approximately 4 degrees.

[0198] The second rotation inhibition angle 344 may range from approximately 12 degrees to 18 degrees. In some embodiments, the second rotation inhibition angle 344 may range from 12 degrees to 13 degrees, from 13 degrees to 14 degrees, from 14 degrees to 15 degrees, from 16 degrees to 17 degrees, or from 17 degrees to 18 degrees. In alternative embodiments, the first rotation inhibition angle 344 may be 12 degrees, 12.5 degrees, 13 degrees, 13.5 degrees, 14 degrees, 14.5 degrees, 15 degrees, 15.5 degrees, 16 degrees, 16.5 degrees, 17 degrees, 17.5 degrees, or 18 degrees. In the illustrated embodiment, the second rotation inhibition angle 344 is approximately 16 degrees.

[0199] The middle region of the arm 317 may be sized, arranged and / or configured to be received within the void 345 of the rotation inhibiting structure 327. The shaft 303 not only extends completely through the elongated body, but also extends through the void 345 and the intermediate hole 324, thereby rigidly supporting the elongated body and arm of the suspension while providing an axis of rotation for the arm 317. The combination of the rotation inhibiting structure 327 and the first rotation inhibiting protrusion 341 and the second rotation inhibiting protrusion 342 of the arm 317 form an overlapping structure that surrounds (or surrounds) a portion of the pivoting body.

[0200] When the bracket 300 is in the zero degree reference angle configuration, the overlapping structure is not felt by the rider or is not noticeable to the rider, however, when the arm 317 begins to rotate / pivot away from the ground, the first rotation inhibiting protrusion and the second rotation inhibiting protrusion may contact the pivot body 306 to provide a mechanical stop. The mechanical stop prevents one or more arms from over-rotating to a point where the wheel 304 contacts the bottom surface of the skateboard deck.

[0201] Figure 8It is further shown that the front hole 323 and the rear hole 325 of each arm 317 are configured for an axle. Each axle 303 is configured to hold at least one wheel 304. In this arrangement, two or more wheels can be positioned between the arms 317. Therefore, the terminology throughout the specification may consider the wheel 304 near the front hole 323 of the arm 317 (pinned) to be the head wheel and / or the front wheel. Similarly, the terminology throughout the specification may consider the wheel 304 near the rear hole 325 of the arm 317 (pinned) to be the tail wheel and / or the rear wheel.

[0202] Continue to refer Figure 8 and Fig.10 , the embodiment of the bracket 300 also includes a friction reducing element 326 that is configured to be received within the middle hole 324 of the arm portion 317. In the case of this embodiment, the friction reducing element is constructed of a nylon material and has a width and a diameter that are approximately the same as the width of the arm portion 317 and the diameter of the middle hole 324, respectively. In many embodiments, the friction reducing element 326 can be press-fit into the middle hole 324.

[0203] V. Pivoting saddle

[0204] Still reference Figure 8-Figure 10 , the pivot body 306 and the pivot end 307 form a substantially triangular shaped pivot saddle 305. This type of triangular arrangement extends from a first end 330 of the elongated body 302 and a second end 331 of the elongated body 302. This type of arrangement acts as a structural support mechanism for the elongated body 302 because the pivot saddle 305 is joined to substantially the entire width of the elongated body 302.

[0205] As previously mentioned, the base plate 308 is a component of the bracket that couples the elongated body 302, the wheel 304, and the pivot saddle 305 to the skateboard deck 111. The base plate 308 forms a plurality of bolt receiving ports 309, at least one kingpin receiving hole 316, and at least one pivot cup receiving port 315. These receiving ports provide receiving geometry for a plurality of bolts, a kingpin, and a pivot end of the pivot saddle, respectively, thereby securing the mobile wheel platform or bracket to a given device.

[0206] The above-described arrangement of the bracket components enables an individual riding a skateboard or longboard to more effectively maneuver over cracks in a sidewalk because the configuration of the bracket components enables the wheels (coupled to the elongated body of the suspension) to be suspended over the contraction joint (i.e., the wheels are prevented from dropping into the crack as the user moves over the contraction joint). In addition, the rotation inhibiting structure of the arm and the rotation inhibiting protrusion cooperate to prevent one or more wheels from contacting the bottom portion of the skateboard (i.e., preventing wheel bite).

[0207] Skateboard Stand III

[0208] Fig.12 and Fig.13 Another embodiment of a mobile wheel platform according to the present invention is shown. The support described herein includes an elongated body 402 having a pivot saddle 405 protruding (or extending) from the elongated body 402. The elongated body 402 and the pivot saddle 405 cooperate to form a rotation inhibiting structure 427 in the form of one or more voids. In many embodiments, only one arm 417 is required to occupy the space formed by the void defined by the one or more rotation inhibiting structures 427. More specifically, Fig.12 An exploded view of a bracket 400 according to another embodiment is shown. Fig.13 Shows Fig.12 An assembled view of the bracket 400;

[0209] Similar to the above-mentioned bracket embodiment, Fig.12 and Fig.13 A preferred arrangement of the above components forming a bracket 400 is shown. In this embodiment, the components of the bracket 400 include a suspension 401 (the suspension 401 includes an elongated body 402), at least one shaft 403, a pivot saddle 405 having a pivot body 406 and a pivot end 407, a base plate 408, only one arm 417, at least two rotation inhibiting structures 427, and at least two sets of friction reducing elements 426.

[0210] The elongated body 402 of this embodiment is similar to the elongated body 302 of the previous embodiment and is configured to be approximately equal to the width of the skateboard deck 411 (not shown). As described above, the width of the elongated body 402 can range between 4 inches and 10 inches. Specifically, the width of the elongated body 402 can be 4 inches, 5 inches, 6 inches, 7 inches, 8 inches, 9 inches, or 10 inches. In this example, the width of the elongated body 402 is approximately 7 inches.

[0211] The elongated body 402 forms a hole 429 that extends completely through the first end 430 and the second end 431 of the elongated body 402. The hole 429 extends completely (100%) through the width of the elongated body 402. In this embodiment, the elongated body can be formed from aluminum 6061 or the cast equivalent aluminum A356.

[0212] The hole 429 is configured to rigidly receive a shaft 403. Specifically, compared with the previous embodiment ( Figure 1-Figure 7 ), this embodiment requires only one shaft. Compared to the previous embodiment, this embodiment not only requires fewer parts, but also enables the shaft 403 to better support the elongated body 402 because more surface area of ​​the shaft 403 is engaged with the elongated body 402.

[0213] The shaft 403 may be constructed of a metallic material, and more particularly of steel or a steel alloy. The shaft 403 further increases the structural support for the elongated body 402, as the Young's modulus of the shaft 403 is greater than the Young's modulus of the elongated body 402 of the suspension. The length of the shaft 403 will vary based on the width of the elongated body 402. As will be discussed further below, each shaft is configured to receive at least one wheel 404.

[0214] The elongated body 402 and the pivoting body 406 further define and / or include at least two rotation inhibiting structures 427 in the form of gaps, notches, slots, or slits. The rotation inhibiting structures 427 are offset and / or spaced away from the first end 430 and the second end 431 of the elongated body 402. For example, in Fig.12 In an embodiment of the present invention, the rotation inhibiting structure 427 is symmetrically positioned along the width of the elongated body 402. Specifically, in this embodiment, the rotation inhibiting structure 427 is offset by approximately 34% from the first end 430 and the second end 431 of the elongated body, respectively. However, in other embodiments, the rotation inhibiting structure 427 can be offset by 25% to 50% from the first end 430 or the second end 431 of the elongated body 402. For example, in many embodiments, the offset distance between the first end and the rotation inhibiting structure 427 or the second end and the rotation inhibiting structure 427 can be 25%, 26%, 27%, 28%, 29%, 30%, 31%, 32%, 33%, 34%, 35%, 36%, 37%, 38%, 39%, 40%, 41%, 42%, 43%, 44%, 45%, 46%, 47%, 48%, 49%, or 50%.

[0215] The rotation inhibiting structure 427 includes at least three inner side walls (i.e., a first inner side wall 437, a second inner side wall 438, and a third inner side wall 439). The first inner side wall is defined as the side wall closest to one of the first end 430 or the second end 431 of the elongated body 302. The second inner side wall 438 is defined as the side wall closest to the other side wall of the rotation inhibiting structure 427. The third inner side wall 439 shares a common edge with the first inner side wall 437 and the second inner side wall 439. The first inner side wall 437, the second inner side wall 438, and the third inner side wall 439 form a gap therebetween.

[0216] The distance between a pair of rotation inhibiting structures 427 may be referred to as a rotation inhibiting structure separation distance 440. Rotation inhibiting structure separation distance 440 may be defined as the distance measured between a pair of rotation inhibiting structure second interior sidewalls 438. In this particular embodiment, rotation inhibiting structure separation distance 440 may be approximately 1.25 inches.

[0217] However, in alternative embodiments, the rotation inhibiting structure spacing distance 440 may range from 0.50 inches to 2 inches. In other embodiments, the rotation inhibiting structure spacing distance 440 may range from 0.50 inches to 0.75 inches, from 0.75 inches to 1.00 inches, from 1.00 inches to 1.25 inches, from 1.25 inches to 1.50 inches, from 1.50 inches to 1.75 inches, or from 1.75 inches to 2.00 inches. The rotation inhibiting structure may be 0.50 inches, 0.75 inches, 1.00 inches, 1.25 inches, 1.50 inches, 1.75 inches, or 2.00 inches.

[0218] Fig.12 It is shown that the arm 417 can be divided into a front region 420, a middle region 421, and a rear region 422. As described above, the front region 420 is similar to the first section 418, the rear region 422 is similar to the second section 419, and the middle region 421 is between the front region 420 and the rear region 422. Fig.12 Further shown is a front region 420 forming a front hole 423, a middle region 421 forming a middle hole 424, and a rear region 422 forming a rear hole 425. In many embodiments, the front hole 423 and the rear hole 425 can be formed with a smaller diameter than the diameter of the middle hole 424.

[0219] The front region 420 also includes a first region transition zone 446. The rear region 422 includes a second region transition zone 447. The first region transition zone 446 is defined as a region or portion where the front region 420 transitions to the middle region 421. The second region transition zone 447 is defined as a region or portion where the rear region 422 transitions to the middle region 421. In the first region transition zone 446, the arm portion 417 is split from one segment into two segments. In the second transition zone 447, the arm portion 417 is split from one segment into two segments.

[0220] In this embodiment, the front region 420 may be a one-segment region, and the rear region 422 may also be a one-segment region, however, the middle region located between the front region 420 and the rear region 422 is a two-segment region, and the middle region is arranged to outline a substantially rectangular shape. Therefore, since the first rotation inhibiting protrusion and the second rotation inhibiting protrusion are positioned on both sides of the two-segment region of the middle region 421, only one arm portion 417 is allowed to occupy at least two rotation inhibiting structures 427.

[0221] In other embodiments, the arm 417 may be split from one segment into two, three, or four segments at the first region transition zone 446. At the second transition zone 447, the arm 417 may be split from one segment into two, three, or four segments.

[0222] The middle region of the one or more arm portions 417 includes a first rotation inhibiting protrusion 441, a second rotation inhibiting protrusion 442, and a middle hole 424. The first rotation inhibiting protrusion 441 protrudes (or extends) from the middle region, and is closer to the front region 420 than the rear region 322. The second rotation inhibiting protrusion 442 protrudes from the middle region, and is closer to the rear region 422 than the front region 420. In addition, the first rotation inhibiting protrusion 441 and the second rotation inhibiting protrusion 442 are positioned on both sides of the two-stage region of the middle region 421.

[0223] Similar to the above-described embodiment, the centerline axis exists between the first rotation inhibiting protrusion 441 and the second rotation inhibiting protrusion 442, and extends through the center point of the intermediate hole 424. A first rotation inhibiting protrusion angle is formed between the centerline and the first rotation inhibiting protrusion. A second rotation inhibiting protrusion angle is formed between the centerline and the second rotation inhibiting protrusion.

[0224] Similar to the above embodiment, the first rotation inhibition angle 443 may range from 2 degrees to 6 degrees. In some embodiments, the first rotation inhibition angle 443 may range from 2 degrees to 2.5 degrees, between 2.5 degrees and 3 degrees, between 3 degrees to 3.5 degrees, between 3.5 degrees to 4 degrees, between 4 degrees to 4.5 degrees, between 4.5 degrees to 5 degrees, between 5 degrees to 5.5 degrees, or between 5.5 degrees to 6 degrees. In alternative embodiments, the first rotation inhibition angle 443 may be 2 degrees, 2.5 degrees, 3 degrees, 3.5 degrees, 4 degrees, 4.5 degrees, 5 degrees, 5.5 degrees, or 6 degrees. In the illustrated embodiment, the first rotation inhibition angle is 4 degrees.

[0225] Similar to the above embodiments, the second rotation inhibition angle 444 can range from 12 degrees to 18 degrees. In some embodiments, the second rotation inhibition angle 444 can range from 12 degrees to 13 degrees, from 13 degrees to 14 degrees, from 14 degrees to 15 degrees, from 16 degrees to 17 degrees, or from 17 degrees to 18 degrees. In alternative embodiments, the second rotation inhibition angle 444 can be 12 degrees, 12.5 degrees, 13 degrees, 13.5 degrees, 14 degrees, 14.5 degrees, 15 degrees, 15.5 degrees, 16 degrees, 16.5 degrees, 17 degrees, 17.5 degrees, or 18 degrees. In the illustrated embodiment, the second rotation inhibition angle 444 is 16 degrees.

[0226] The middle region of the arm 417 is configured to be received within the void 445 of the rotation inhibiting structure 427. The shaft 402 not only extends completely through the elongated body, but also extends through the void 445 and the intermediate hole 424 of the arm 417, thereby rigidly supporting the elongated body of the suspension, and also providing an axis of rotation for the arm 417. The combination of the rotation inhibiting structure 427 and the first rotation inhibiting protrusion 441 of the arm 417 forms an overlapping structure that surrounds or encircles a portion of the pivoting body.

[0227] When the bracket 400 is in the zero degree reference angle configuration, the overlapping structure is not felt by the rider or is not noticeable to the rider, however, when the arm 417 begins to rotate / pivot away from the ground, the first rotation inhibiting protrusion and the second rotation inhibiting protrusion may contact the pivoting body 406, thereby providing a physical barrier. The physical barrier prevents one or more arms from over-rotating to a point where the wheel 404 contacts the bottom surface of the skateboard deck (not shown).

[0228] Fig.12 and Fig.13 It is further shown that the front hole 423 and the rear hole 425 of each arm 417 are configured to receive an axle. Each axle 403 is configured to hold at least one wheel 404. In the illustrated embodiment, four wheels are coupled to the arm 417 and are positioned at the front hole 423 and the rear hole 425 on each side (or opposite sides) of the arm 417. Therefore, the terminology throughout the specification may consider the two wheels 404 near the front hole 423 of the arm 417 to be the head wheel and / or the front wheel. Similarly, the terminology throughout the specification may consider the two wheels 404 near the rear hole 425 of the arm 417 to be the tail wheel and / or the rear wheel.

[0229] Continue to refer Fig.12 and Fig.13 , the bracket 400 also includes a friction reducing element 426 configured to be received within each intermediate hole 424 of the arm portion 417. In the case of this embodiment, the friction reducing element is constructed of a nylon material and has a width and diameter that are approximately the same as the width of the arm portion 417 and the diameter of the intermediate hole 424, respectively.

[0230] The pivot body 406 and the pivot end 407 form a substantially triangular shaped pivot saddle 405. This type of substantially triangular shaped arrangement extends from the first end 430 of the elongated body 402 and the second end 431 of the elongated body 402, thereby additionally serving as a structural support mechanism for the elongated body 402. The shaft 403 further increases the structural support for the elongated body 402 because the Young's modulus of the shaft 403 is greater than the Young's modulus of the elongated body 402 of the suspension.

[0231] As previously mentioned, the base plate 408 is a component of the bracket that couples the elongated body 402, the wheel 404, and the pivot saddle 405 to the skateboard deck 411. The base plate 408 forms a plurality of bolt receiving ports 409, at least one kingpin receiving hole 416, and at least one pivot cup receiving port (not shown). These receiving ports provide receiving geometry for a plurality of bolts, a kingpin, and a pivot end of the pivot saddle, respectively. Thus, the mobile wheel platform or bracket is fixed to a given device.

[0232] The above described arrangement of the bracket components enables an individual riding a skateboard or longboard to more effectively maneuver over cracks in a sidewalk because the configuration of the bracket components enables the wheels (coupled to the elongated body of the suspension) to be suspended over the contraction joint (i.e., preventing the wheels from dropping into the crack as the user moves over the contraction joint). In addition, this embodiment requires only one arm, while still utilizing the rotation inhibiting structure and rotation inhibiting protrusions of the arm to prevent one or more wheels from contacting the bottom of the skateboard (i.e., preventing wheel bite).

[0233] Skateboard Stand IV

[0234] Figure 14-Figure 20 Another embodiment of a mobile wheel platform according to the present invention is shown. The support described herein includes an elongated body 502 having a pivot saddle 505 protruding (or extending) therefrom. The elongated body 502 and the pivot saddle 505 cooperate to form a rotation inhibiting structure 527 in the form of one or more voids. In many embodiments, only one arm 517 is required to occupy the space formed by the void defined by the one or more rotation inhibiting structures 527. More specifically, Figure 14-Figure 20 A bracket 500 is shown that may be mounted to a longboard (or another device). Figure 14-Figure 20 The embodiment of the stent shown is similar to the stents described previously.

[0235] Figure 14-Figure 20 An embodiment of the above components forming a bracket 500 is shown. In this embodiment, the components of the bracket 500 include a suspension 501 (the suspension 501 includes an elongated body 502), at least one shaft 503, a pivot saddle 505 having a pivot body 506 and a pivot end 507, a base plate 508, only one arm 517, at least two rotation inhibiting structures 527, and at least two sets of friction reducing elements 526.

[0236] The elongated body 502 of the illustrated embodiment is similar to the elongated bodies 102, 202, 302, and 402 of the previously described embodiments, and is configured to be approximately equal to the width of the skateboard deck 511. As described above, the width of the elongated body 502 can range between 4 inches and 10 inches. Specifically, the width of the elongated body 502 can be 4 inches, 5 inches, 6 inches, 7 inches, 8 inches, 9 inches, or 10 inches. In this illustrative example, the width of the elongated body 502 is approximately 7 inches.

[0237] The elongated body 502 forms a hole 529 that extends completely through the first end 530 and the second end 531 of the elongated body 502. The hole 529 extends completely (100%) through the width of the elongated body 502. In this particular embodiment, the elongated body is composed of aluminum 6061 or a cast equivalent aluminum A356.

[0238] The hole 529 can be configured to rigidly receive one shaft 503. Specifically, this embodiment requires only one shaft compared to embodiment 1. Compared to the previous embodiment, this embodiment not only requires fewer parts, but also because more surface area of ​​the shaft 503 is engaged with the elongated body 502, the shaft 503 can provide more support for the elongated body 502.

[0239] In this illustrative embodiment, the shaft 503 is constructed of a metallic material, and more specifically of steel or a steel alloy. The shaft 503 further increases the structural support for the elongated body 502 because the Young's modulus of the shaft 503 is greater than the Young's modulus of the elongated body 502 of the suspension. The length of the shaft 503 will vary based on the width of the elongated body 502. This specific embodiment shows a shaft width of approximately 8 inches. As will be discussed further below, each shaft is configured to receive at least one wheel 504.

[0240] The elongated body 502 also includes at least two rotation inhibiting structures 527 in the form of gaps, notches, slots, or slits. The rotation inhibiting structures 527 are offset and / or spaced away from the first end 530 and the second end 531 of the elongated body 502. For example, Figure 14-Figure 20In the illustrated embodiment, the rotation inhibiting structure 527 is symmetrically positioned along the width of the elongated body 502. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the rotation inhibiting structure 527 is offset from the first end 530 and the second end 531 of the elongated body by approximately 34%. However, in other embodiments, the rotation inhibiting structure 527 can be offset from the first end 530 or the second end 531 of the elongated body 502 by 25% to 50%. For example, in many embodiments, the offset distance between the first end and the rotation inhibiting structure 527 or the second end and the rotation inhibiting structure 527 can be 25%, 26%, 27%, 28%, 29%, 30%, 31%, 32%, 33%, 34%, 35%, 36%, 37%, 38%, 39%, 40%, 41%, 42%, 43%, 44%, 45%, 46%, 47%, 48%, 49%, or 50%.

[0241] Similar to Fig.11 , the bracket 500 shares a similar suspension design as the suspension 301 of the skateboard embodiment III and is labeled as such. The rotation inhibiting structure (327, 427) 527 includes at least three inner side walls (i.e., a first inner side wall (337, 437) 537, a second inner side wall (338, 438) 538, and a third inner side wall (339, 439) 539). The first inner wall is defined as the side wall closest to one of the first end (330, 430) 530 or the second end (331, 431) 531 of the elongated body (302, 402) 502. The second inner wall (338, 438) 538 is defined as the side wall that is close to the side wall of the other rotation inhibiting structure (327, 427) 527. The third inner sidewall (339, 439) 539 shares a common edge with the first inner wall (337, 437) 537 and the second inner wall (339, 439) 539. The first inner sidewall (337, 437) 537, the second inner sidewall (338, 438) 538 and the third inner sidewall (339, 439) 539 form a gap therebetween.

[0242] The distance between a pair of rotation inhibiting structures (327, 427) 527 may be referred to as a rotation inhibiting structure separation distance (340, 440) 540. The rotation inhibiting structure separation distance (340, 440) 540 is defined as the distance measured between the pair of rotation inhibiting structure second interior side walls (338, 438) 538. In the illustrated embodiment, the rotation inhibiting structure separation distance (340, 440) 540 is approximately 1.25 inches. However, in alternative embodiments, the rotation inhibiting structure separation distance (340, 440) 540 may range between 0.50 inches and 2 inches. In other embodiments, the rotation inhibiting structure separation distance (340, 440) 540 may range from 0.50 inches to 0.75 inches, 0.75 inches to 1.00 inches, 1.00 inches to 1.25 inches, 1.25 inches to 1.50 inches, 1.50 inches to 1.75 inches, or 1.75 inches to 2.00 inches. The rotation inhibiting structure may be 0.50 inches, 0.75 inches, 1.00 inches, 1.25 inches, 1.50 inches, 1.75 inches, or 2.00 inches.

[0243] Fig.17 It is shown that the arm 517 can be defined by a front region 520, a middle region 521, and a rear region 522. As described above, the front region 520 is similar to the first section 518, the rear region 522 is similar to the second section 519, and the middle region 521 is between the front region 520 and the rear region 522. Fig.17 Further shown are front region 520 forming front aperture 523, middle region 521 forming middle aperture 524, and rear region 522 forming rear aperture 525. In the illustrated embodiment, front aperture 523 and rear aperture 525 include diameters that are smaller than the diameter of middle aperture 524.

[0244] The front region 520 also includes a first region transition zone 546. The rear region 522 includes a second region transition zone 547. The first region transition zone 546 is defined as the region or portion where the front region 520 transitions to the middle region 521. The second region transition zone 547 is defined as the region or portion where the rear region 522 transitions to the middle region 521. In the first region transition zone 546, the arm 517 maintains two sections (to wrap around the wheel between the two sections). In the second transition zone 547, the arm 517 transitions from one section to two sections (see Fig.17 ). As described above, the rear region of the arm is one segment and is configured to have one or more wheels on opposite sides of the segment. In the illustrated embodiment, the front region 520 is a two-segment region, the rear region 522 is a one-segment region, and the middle region between the front region 520 and the rear region 522 is a two-segment region.

[0245] In other embodiments, the arm 517 can be divided into three, four or five segments at the first region transition region 546. At the segment transition region 547, the arm 517 can be split from one segment into two, three or four segments.

[0246] Similar to the above-mentioned arm portions (317, 417), the middle region of one or more arm portions 517 includes a first rotation inhibiting protrusion 541, a second rotation inhibiting protrusion 542, and an intermediate hole 524. The first rotation inhibiting protrusion 541 is closer to the front region 520 than the rear region 522. The second rotation inhibiting protrusion 542 is closer to the rear region 522 than the front region 520. The center line exists between the first rotation inhibiting protrusion 541 and the second rotation inhibiting protrusion 542, and extends through the center point of the intermediate hole 524.

[0247] The center line exists between the first rotation inhibiting protrusion 541 and the second rotation inhibiting protrusion 542 and extends through the center point of the intermediate hole 524. A first rotation inhibiting protrusion angle is formed between the center line and the first rotation inhibiting protrusion. A second rotation inhibiting protrusion angle is formed between the center line and the second rotation inhibiting protrusion.

[0248] The first rotation inhibition angle 543 may range from 2 to 6 degrees. In some embodiments, the first rotation inhibition angle 543 may range from 2 to 2.5 degrees, from 2.5 to 3 degrees, from 3 to 3.5 degrees, from 3.5 to 4 degrees, from 4 to 4.5 degrees, from 4.5 to 5 degrees, from 5 to 5.5 degrees, or from 5.5 to 6 degrees. In alternative embodiments, the first rotation inhibition angle 543 may be 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4, 4.5, 5, 5.5, or 6 degrees. In the illustrated embodiment, the first rotation inhibition angle is 4 degrees.

[0249] The second rotation inhibition angle 544 may range from 12 to 18 degrees. In some embodiments, the second rotation inhibition angle 544 may range from 12 to 13 degrees, from 13 to 14 degrees, from 14 to 15 degrees, from 16 to 17 degrees, or from 17 to 18 degrees. In alternative embodiments, the first rotation inhibition angle 544 may be 12, 12.5, 13, 13.5, 14, 14.5, 15, 15.5, 16, 16.5, 17, 17.5, or 18 degrees. In the illustrated embodiment, the second rotation inhibition angle 544 is 16 degrees.

[0250] The middle region of the arm 517 can be configured to be received within the void 545 of the rotation inhibiting structure 527. The shaft 502 not only extends completely through the elongated body, but also extends through the void 545 and the middle hole 524, thereby rigidly supporting the elongated body of the suspension, and also providing an axis of rotation for the arm 517. The combination of the rotation inhibiting structure 527 and the first rotation inhibiting protrusion 541 of the arm 517 forms an overlapping structure. When the bracket 500 is in the zero degree reference angle configuration, the overlapping structure will not be felt by the skater or the overlapping structure will not be obvious to the skater, however, when the arm 517 begins to rotate / pivot away from the ground, the first rotation inhibiting protrusion and the second rotation inhibiting protrusion will contact the pivoting body 506, thereby providing a physical barrier. This physical barrier prevents one or more arms from over-rotating to a point where the wheel 504 contacts the bottom surface of the skateboard deck (not shown).

[0251] Fig. 20 It is further shown that the front hole 523 and the rear hole 525 of each arm 517 are configured to receive at least one shaft 503. Each shaft 503 is configured to retain a wheel 504.

[0252] Reference again Figure 14-Figure 20 , the embodiment of the bracket 500 also includes one or more friction reducing elements 526, which are configured to be received in the two middle holes 524 of the arm portion 517. In the case of this embodiment, each friction reducing element is defined by a first portion and a second portion. The first portion and the second portion of the friction reducing element are substantially in the shape of a flange. The first portion and the second portion of the friction reducing element share similar elements. Reference Fig.19 , the friction reducing element includes a shoulder portion 548 and a main body portion 549. In many embodiments, the main body portion 549 is substantially cylindrical and includes an inner diameter and an outer diameter. The shoulder portion extends radially outward from the outer diameter at one end of the main body portion. The first portion and the second portion are mirror images of each other. The first friction reducing element and the second friction reducing element are press-fitted into opposite sides of the middle hole 524. This type of structure and arrangement allows the friction reducing elements to be positioned on opposite sides of the arm 517 to advantageously help align the middle hole with the arm 517. This arrangement protects each side of the arm 517 from contacting the inner sidewall of the rotation inhibiting structure, thereby minimizing wear due to material abrasion or fatigue stress.

[0253] Continue to refer Figure 14-Figure 20 , the pivot body 506 and the pivot end 507 form a substantially triangular shaped pivot saddle 505. This type of triangular arrangement extends from the first end 530 of the elongated body 502 and the second end 531 of the elongated body 502, and thus additionally acts as a structural support mechanism for the elongated body 502 because the stresses applied to the suspension are distributed across a larger area and allowed to travel over a larger area.

[0254] As previously mentioned, the base plate 508 is a component of the bracket that couples the elongated body 502, the wheel 504, and the pivot saddle 505 to the skateboard deck 511. The base plate 508 forms a plurality of bolt receiving ports 509, at least one kingpin receiving hole 516, and at least one pivot cup receiving port 515. These receiving ports provide receiving geometry for a plurality of bolts, a kingpin, and a pivot end of the pivot saddle, respectively, thereby securing the mobile wheel platform or bracket to a given device.

[0255] The above described arrangement of the bracket components enables an individual riding a skateboard or longboard to more effectively maneuver over cracks in a sidewalk because the configuration of the bracket components enables the wheels (the elongated body coupled to the suspension) to be suspended over the contraction joint (i.e., preventing the wheels from dropping into the crack as the user moves over the contraction joint). In addition, this embodiment requires only one arm, while still utilizing the rotation inhibiting structure and the rotation inhibiting protrusions of the arm to prevent one or more wheels from contacting the bottom of the skateboard (i.e., preventing wheel bite). However, there are alternative wheel arrangement configurations.

[0256] Example 1

[0257] High-speed motion analysis experiments were conducted to analyze the effectiveness of the skateboard support embodiment in maneuvering over a sidewalk contraction joint approximately 1.125 inches wide. Specifically, the Figure 8-Figure 11 The support is configured to have two or more wheels on the gliding surface (or on the ground) at any given moment. This is due in part to the length of the arm and the arrangement of the wheels. Fig.21 The rider is shown gliding close to a crack (approximately 1.125 inches wide) with at least two wheels engaging the gliding surface, and more particularly, all four wheels engaging the gliding surface. Fig. 22 The front wheel (or bow wheel) of the skateboard stand is shown lowered into the contraction joint and at least two wheels, and more specifically, three wheels, engage the gliding surface. Fig.23 The lead wheel is shown raised from the contraction joint onto the adjacent concrete floor, the two wheels attached to an axle extending through the elongated body are suspended above the contraction joint, and the rear (or tail) wheel is on the opposing concrete floor. Fig.24 The rear wheel (or tail wheel) is shown entering the contraction joint, however, as shown in all figures, no matter how close the skateboard frame approaches the contraction joint, at least two wheels are always on the gliding surface. This allows one or more wheels to slide over the contraction joint, or minimizes the interaction of the wheels with the contraction joint.

[0258] Example 2

[0259] High-speed motion analysis experiments were conducted to analyze the effectiveness of the skateboard stand embodiments in maneuvering on non-horizontal, non-smooth, and uneven surfaces. Figure 8-Figure 11 Embodiment. This study analyzed wheel velocity before and after impact where the height of the gliding surface (or ground) changed instantaneously by 0.5 inches. Two versions of the Skateboard Stand II were tested. The first version was a standard arm ratio (i.e., the first segment of the arm and the second segment of the arm had equal lengths of 3.5 inches). The second version was an increased arm ratio (i.e., the first segment of the arm was approximately 5 inches and the second segment of the arm was approximately 3.5 inches). Each version of the Skateboard Stand was analyzed with all wheel diameters being either 69 mm or 75 mm. It was determined that (1) the wheel speed of the standard arm ratio wheel with a wheel diameter of 69 mm decreased by approximately 28% after impact with a transient height change; (2) the wheel speed of the standard arm ratio wheel with a wheel diameter of 75 mm decreased by approximately 27.5% after impact with a transient height change; (3) the wheel speed of the increased arm ratio wheel with a wheel diameter of 69 mm decreased by approximately 28.8% after impact with a transient height change; and (4) the wheel speed of the increased arm ratio wheel with a wheel diameter of 75 mm decreased by approximately 30.5% after impact with a transient height change. Thus, both the length of the arm (more specifically, the length of the first section and the second section) and the wheel diameter affect the wheel speed after impact on a non-level, non-smooth and / or uneven surface.

[0260] Various features and advantages of the present disclosure are set forth in the following clauses:

[0261] Item 1. A bracket comprising: a suspension; the suspension comprising: a cylindrical body; wherein the cylindrical body surrounds a hole or a gap; a pivot saddle; the pivot saddle also includes a pivot end and a pivot body surrounding the hole; at least two rotation inhibiting structures; an axle; wherein the axle is received in the hole or the gap of the cylindrical body of the suspension; an assembly; the assembly comprising: a first arm and a second arm; a first auxiliary wheel and a second auxiliary wheel; wherein: the first arm and the second arm include a front region, a middle region and a rear region; the front region forms a front hole; the middle region forms an intermediate hole; the rear region forms a rear hole; the two rotation inhibiting structures are adjacent to the pivot saddle and on opposite sides of the pivot saddle, and the two rotation inhibiting structures are spaced apart from the cylindrical body; the two rotation inhibiting structures are coplanar with each other, and / or, wherein the middle region of the first arm and the second arm is located in the space between the rotation inhibiting structure and the cylindrical body.

[0262] Clause 2. A bracket according to clause 1, wherein the first arm and the second arm include a first end and a second end, and wherein the first end and the second end are substantially planar or at an angle between 178 degrees and 180 degrees to each other.

[0263] Clause 3. The bracket of clause 1, wherein the first arm and the second arm include a first end and a second end, and wherein the first end and the second end are at an angle between 178 degrees and 180 degrees.

[0264] Clause 4. The bracket of clause 1, wherein the bracket is located at the head of the skateboard.

[0265] Clause 5. The bracket of clause 4, wherein the bracket is located at the rear of the skateboard.

[0266] Clause 6. The bracket of clause 1, wherein a third wheel and a fourth wheel are coupled to the shaft.

[0267] Clause 7. The bracket of clause 1, wherein the first wheel, the second wheel, the third wheel, and the fourth wheel are in a diamond-shaped configuration.

[0268] Clause 8. The stent of Clause 2, wherein the length of the first end of the first arm and the second arm is shorter than the length of the second end of the first arm and the second arm.

[0269] Clause 9. The stent of Clause 6, wherein the first wheel, the second wheel, the third wheel, and the fourth wheel have the same diameter.

[0270] Clause 10. The stent of Clause 1, wherein the rotation inhibiting structure defines a predetermined range of motion.

[0271] Clause 11. The bracket of clause 10, wherein the predetermined range of motion is between 0 degrees and 35 degrees.

[0272] Clause 12. The stent of Clause 1, wherein the rotation inhibiting structure is neither circular nor elliptical in length and is between 2 and 2.5 inches in length.

[0273] Clause 13. The stent of Clause 12, wherein the rotation inhibiting structure has a width between 0.125 inches and 0.375 inches.

[0274] Clause 14. A bracket according to clause 1, wherein the bracket also includes one or more flange bearings, which are accommodated in the middle holes of the first arm and the second arm to reduce the friction between the cylindrical body of the suspension and the first arm and the second arm.

[0275] Clause 15. The bracket of Clause 14, wherein the flange bearing is constructed of nylon material.

[0276] Clause 16. The bracket of clause 3, wherein the bracket is in a reverse kingpin configuration.

[0277] Clause 17. The stent of Clause 1, wherein the front aperture, the middle aperture, and the rear aperture are circular.

[0278] Clause 18. The stent of Clause 1, wherein the rotation inhibiting structure is solid.

[0279] Clause 19. The stent of Clause 1, wherein the rotation inhibiting structure is hollow.

[0280] Clause 20. The bracket of Clause 6, wherein the diameter of the first wheel, the second wheel, the third wheel, and the fourth wheel is between 3 inches and 6 inches.

Claims

1. A bracket, comprising: Suspension; The suspension comprises: A cylindrical body; wherein the cylindrical body surrounds a hole or void; A pivoting saddle; the pivoting saddle comprising a pivoting end and a pivoting body surrounding a hole; at least two rotation inhibiting structures, wherein the at least two rotation inhibiting structures are integrally connected to the pivoting saddle; shaft; wherein the shaft is received within the hole or the void of the cylindrical body of the suspension; Component; the component comprises: a first arm and a second arm; a first wheel and a second wheel, wherein the first wheel and the second wheel are coupled to the first arm and the second arm; in: The first arm portion and the second arm portion include a front region, a middle region and a rear region; the front region forms a front hole; The middle region forms a middle hole; The rear region forms a rear aperture; The at least two rotation inhibiting structures prevent the first arm and the second arm from rotating beyond a predetermined angle; The at least two rotation inhibiting structures are adjacent to the pivoting saddle, and the at least two rotation inhibiting structures are on opposite sides of the pivoting saddle, and the at least two rotation inhibiting structures are spaced apart from the cylindrical body; and The at least two rotation inhibiting structures are coplanar with each other, and wherein the middle regions of the first and second arms are complementary to and located in a space between the rotation inhibiting structures and the cylindrical body.

2. The bracket according to claim 1, wherein: The first arm portion and the second arm portion include a first end portion and a second end portion, and wherein the first end portion and the second end portion are substantially planar with each other.

3. The bracket according to claim 1, wherein: The first arm and the second arm include a first end and a second end, and wherein the first end and the second end are at an angle between 178 degrees and 180 degrees.

4. The bracket according to claim 1, wherein: The bracket is located at the head of the skateboard.

5. The bracket according to claim 4, wherein: The bracket is located at the rear of the skateboard.

6. The bracket according to claim 1, wherein: A third wheel and a fourth wheel are coupled to the shaft.

7. The bracket according to claim 6, wherein: The first wheel, the second wheel, the third wheel and the fourth wheel are in a diamond-shaped configuration.

8. The bracket according to claim 2, wherein: The first end portions of the first arm portion and the second arm portion have shorter lengths than lengths of the second end portions of the first arm portion and the second arm portion.

9. The bracket according to claim 6, wherein: The first wheel, the second wheel, the third wheel and the fourth wheel have the same diameter.

10. The bracket according to claim 1, wherein: The rotation inhibiting structure defines a predetermined range of rotational motion of the first arm and the second arm.

11. The bracket according to claim 10, wherein: The predetermined rotational movement range is between 0 degrees and 35 degrees.

12. The bracket according to claim 1, wherein: The rotation inhibiting structure is neither circular nor oval and is between 2 inches and 2.5 inches in length.

13. The bracket according to claim 12, wherein: The rotation inhibiting structure has a width between 0.125 inches and 0.375 inches.

14. The bracket according to claim 1, wherein: The bracket also includes one or more flange bearings received within the intermediate holes of the first and second arms to reduce friction between the cylindrical body of the suspension and the first and second arms.

15. The bracket according to claim 14, wherein: The flange bearing is made of nylon material.

16. The bracket according to claim 3, wherein: The bracket is in a reverse kingpin configuration.

17. The stent according to claim 1, wherein: The front hole, the middle hole and the rear hole are circular.

18. The stent according to claim 1, wherein: The rotation inhibiting structure is solid.

19. The stent according to claim 1, wherein: The rotation inhibiting structure is hollow.

20. The stent according to claim 6, wherein: The diameters of the first wheel, the second wheel, the third wheel and the fourth wheel are between 2.7 inches and 4 inches.

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