Skates

Abstract

A skate for gliding on ice, the skate comprising: an upper sole segment comprising a first contact surface having a front end and a rear end; a lower sole segment comprising a second contact surface having a front end and a rear end; and a coupling structure comprising a springing device, the coupling structure being arranged to mechanically couple the upper sole segment and the lower sole segment. At least one of the first contact surface and the second contact surface is curved. The coupling structure is arranged to allow the upper sole segment to pivot relative to the lower sole segment by a rolling contact motion between the first contact surface and the second contact surface, such that an instant contact zone of the first contact surface and the second contact surface moves back and forth between the front ends and the rear ends of the first contact surface and the second contact surface. The springing device is arranged to urge the instant contact zone to a neutral position located at the front ends of the first contact surface and the second contact surface. The springing device is entirely arranged in front of the front ends of the first contact surface and the second contact surface.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to the field of ice skates for skating on ice. In particular, the present disclosure relates to ice skates in which an upper base segment is arranged to pivot by rolling contact motion relative to a lower base segment. BACKGROUND

[0002] Conventional ice skates comprise a boot for receiving a user's foot and a blade which is immovably fixed to the boot. The blade exhibits a certain profile or rocker, which means that the lower ice-contact edge is curved with a certain radius of curvature along the longitudinal direction of the blade. This curvature allows the user to move the instant ice-contact portion along the curved ice-contact surface back and forth by varying the angle of the force transmitted from the user's leg to the blade.

[0003] Since a longer instant ice-contact portion promotes higher speed on ice, speed skates usually exhibit a profile with a larger radius of curvature. In fact, for speed skates, the entire ice-contact surface or at least a major part thereof can be straight without any curvature at all. On the other hand, a shorter instant ice-contact portion promotes maneuverability and helps with sharp turns, quick starts and stops, and backward skating. For this reason, ice skates for use in other sports, such as ice hockey, bandy, figure skating, etc., usually exhibit a blade profile with a smaller radius of curvature. The curvature of the blade can vary along the ice-contact surface, so that the profile comprises multiple portions with different radii along the blade. A blade for ice hockey skates may, for example, exhibit a front portion with a smaller radius for acceleration, a middle portion with a larger radius for gliding and high-speed skating, and a rear portion with a smaller radius for quick stops and cross skating.

[0004] For speed skates, there are different types of so-called clap bindings for attaching the boot to the blade. Such clap bindings allow the boot to pivot relative to the blade about a fixed axis of rotation. In this way, the skater is allowed to lengthen the stride of each leg while maintaining a relatively long portion of the blade in contact with the ice, thereby increasing the speed.

[0005] Recently, a further developed skate type has been introduced. In this type, the boot is allowed to pivot through a rolling contact motion in the longitudinal direction relative to the blade. EP 2696949 B1 discloses such a skate. The skate comprises a binding having an upper base section with a first contact surface and a lower base section with a second contact surface. At least one of the contact surfaces is curved. Coupling means are provided to engage the upper and lower base sections so that they can pivot relative to each other in the longitudinal direction and so that during said pivoting the first and second contact surfaces are in rolling contact without a fixed point of rotation. Spring back means are provided to urge the relative pivoting position between the first and second contact surfaces to a neutral position. This skate is intended for ice hockey, ice hockey, figure skating, etc. and it allows the user to shift the center of gravity along the length of the foot while maintaining uniform pressure on the blade. In this way, the maneuverability, performance and comfort are greatly enhanced. SUMMARY

[0006] It is an object of the present disclosure to provide an enhanced skate of the type that allows the upper base section to pivot through a rolling contact motion without a fixed point of rotation relative to the lower base section.

[0007] It is a further object to provide a skate that allows precise adjustment of the spring force that urges or biases the relative pivoting rolling motion to a neutral position.

[0008] It is a further object to provide a skate that is simple and reliable in construction.

[0009] It is a further object to provide a skate that exhibits reduced weight and size.

[0010] It is a further object to provide a skate that exhibits great stability and robustness.

[0011] It is a further object to provide a skate that allows easy replacement of the blade.

[0012] It is a further object to provide a skate in which the geometry of the rolling contact motion can be easily changed.

[0013] These and other objects are achieved by an ice skate as defined in amended claim 1. The ice skate for gliding on ice comprises an upper chassis section comprising a first contact surface having a front end and a rear end, a lower chassis section comprising a second contact surface having a front end and a rear end, and a coupling arrangement comprising a springing device, the coupling arrangement being arranged to mechanically couple the upper chassis section and the lower chassis section. At least one of the first contact surface and the second contact surface is curved. The coupling arrangement is arranged to allow the upper chassis section to pivot relative to the lower chassis section by a rolling contact motion between the first contact surface and the second contact surface, such that an instant contact zone of the first contact surface and the second contact surface moves back and forth between the front end and the rear end of the first contact surface and between the front end and the rear end of the second contact surface. The springing device is arranged to urge the instant contact zone to a neutral position located at the front end of the first contact surface and the front end of the second contact surface. The springing device is entirely arranged in front of the front end of the first contact surface and the front end of the second contact surface.

[0014] When utilizing and further developing the ice skate disclosed in EP 2696949 B1, it has been found that particularly advantageous properties are achieved if the springing device is arranged to urge the instant contact zone to a neutral position located at the front end of the two contact surfaces. Thus, certain advantages are achieved if the ice skate is arranged such that from the neutral position (towards which the springing device urges the instant contact zone), the user can only perform a backward rolling. In this way, the user can apply force directly from the leg to the front portion of the blade without any intermediate springiness or play. Thereby, the power applied to the front portion of the blade during the push off phase of the ice skate is transferred to the ice without any substantial loss, resulting in an increased power efficiency (e.g. during acceleration). Naturally, this provides great advantages as the increased power efficiency allows for higher gliding speeds and / or reduced fatigue for the glider. The direct, non-springy transfer of force to the front portion of the blade also enhances the glider's control and precision of the ice skate, especially during acceleration.

[0015] In addition, the arrangement of the springing device entirely in front of the contact surfaces results in an increased length of the lever (by which the springing device urges the instant contact zone towards the neutral position). Thereby, the active urging force is increased, such that the springing device can be kept relatively weak. This in turn reduces the overall weight of the ice skate, which is extremely advantageous in many applications, such as in hockey skates. The increased length of the lever also makes it possible to finely tune the active urging force to meet the specific needs and desires of different gliders.

[0016] The forward position of the rebound device in front of the contact surface also makes it possible to arrange the rebound device inside an existing cavity of a front blade support member or front post for securing and supporting the blade, which is arranged at the toe portion of a modern conventional ice skate. In this way, the advantageous rearward rolling function can be integrated into an ice skate without any substantial deviation from the conventional size and shape of a modern ice skate. In particular, the rebound device can be incorporated into an ice skate of conventional appearance without increasing the outer dimensions or changing the outer shape. The forward positioning of the rebound device also allows the rebound device to be formed in many different shapes, and in particular, the rebound device can be given a simple shape that is easy to manufacture.

[0017] According to an embodiment, the rebound device is arranged to engage an upwardly protruding first engagement member of the lower base section.

[0018] The upper base section can comprise at least one first stop surface and the lower base section comprises at least one second stop surface, which are arranged to, when in contact with each other, prevent the instant contact zone from passing forward of the front end of the first contact surface and the front end of the second contact surface. Such a cooperating first stop surface and second stop surface eliminates any elasticity from the rebound device that interferes with the force transmission from the skater to the blade when the instant contact zone has reached its foremost position. Thus, the skater can rigidly apply force to the toe portion of the blade, for example at take-off, which increases the acceleration and enhances the precision and feel of the skating.

[0019] Preferably, the first stop surface and the second stop surface can be arranged forward of the front end of the first contact surface and the front end of the second contact surface. In this way, the rigidity to be applied at the foremost rolling position can be achieved in a simple, space-saving and reliable manner.

[0020] The upper base section can comprise a plurality of first stop surfaces and the lower base section comprises the same number of second stop surfaces. Such a plurality of cooperating stop surfaces further ensures the rigidity to be applied in the foremost rolling position.

[0021] According to an embodiment, the upper base section comprises at least one third stop surface and the lower base section comprises at least one fourth stop surface, which are arranged to, when in contact with each other, prevent the rear portion of the lower base section from separating from the upper base section.

[0022] The fourth stop surface can be arranged on a second engagement member of the lower base section that protrudes upwardly, which is receivable in a cavity of the upper base section and the third stop surface is then arranged in said cavity.

[0023] The spring-back device can comprise an injection moulded spring of a polymer material. In this way, the spring-back device can easily be given desired spring characteristics and dimensions, and be manufactured at low cost.

[0024] The spring-back device can be pivotally secured to the upper base section.

[0025] The spring-back device can be arranged to deform when the instantaneous contact zone is moved from the neutral position, and wherein the upper base section comprises a spring-back limiting device arranged to limit the maximum deformation of the spring-back device. In this way, the spring-back device can easily be prevented from breaking or otherwise being damaged in the event of the upper base section and the lower base section being accidentally separated from each other.

[0026] According to one embodiment, the spring-back device is secured to the upper base section, and is arranged to selectively engage with the lower base section to urge the instantaneous contact zone to the neutral position and to disengage from the lower base section to allow the lower base section to be removed from the upper base section. In this way, the spring-back device provides an additional quick release function for the skate. This function can for example be used to release the lower base section including the blade, in order to allow quick and easy replacement of the blade, such as during a hockey game.

[0027] The spring-back device can then be pivotal between an engaged position, in which the spring-back device engages the lower base section, and a released position, in which the spring-back device disengages from the lower base section.

[0028] The spring-back device can comprise a link mechanism comprising a first link arm pivotally connected to the upper base section, a second link arm pivotally connected to the first pivot arm, and a spring arranged to urge the respective free ends of the first and second pivot arms towards each other. This provides a reliable, robust and space saving device to obtain the force for urging the instantaneous contact zone to the neutral position.

[0029] The first contact surface can be provided on a replaceable insert removably secured to the upper base section. This provides a convenient and quick adjustment of the curvature of the first contact surface to meet the individual user's personal preferences.

[0030] The skate can then further comprise an insert retaining device arranged to releasably retain the insert to the upper base section when the lower base section has been removed. This prevents accidental removal of the insert when the lower base section has been released, for example when replacing the blade.

[0031] The insert retaining device can comprise a press fit device, a snap fit device or a screw device for removably retaining the insert to the upper base segment.

[0032] The curvature of the first contact surface and / or the second contact surface can exhibit a constant radius over its entire length.

[0033] Alternatively, in some applications it can be desirable that the curvature of the first contact surface and / or the second contact surface varies over its length.

[0034] At least a portion of the first contact surface and / or the second contact surface can exhibit a constant curvature with a radius greater than 1 m, preferably between 1 m and 10 m, more preferably between 2 m and 8 m, most preferably between 3 m and 7 m.

[0035] At least a portion of the first contact surface and / or the second contact surface can exhibit a curvature and a length which are arranged such that, when the contact zone moves between the front end and the rear end of the first contact surface and between the front end and the rear end of the second contact surface, the maximum pivot angle is between 0.5° and 5°, preferably between 1° and 3°, most preferably about 2°.

[0036] Such a curvature and pivot angle has proven to be particularly suitable for ice skates used for ice hockey and ice sledge hockey. It is believed that this is equally applicable to ice skates for figure skating.

[0037] Preferably, the upper base segment is fixed to a boot for receiving a user's foot and the lower base segment preferably comprises ice blades.

[0038] The upper base segment can preferably be injection molded from a polymeric material.

[0039] Generally, all terms used in the claims are to be interpreted according to their ordinary meaning in the technical field, unless explicitly stated otherwise herein. The reference to a "component", "device", "means", "step" etc. is to be interpreted to be at least one instance of that component, device, means, step etc. unless explicitly stated otherwise. The steps of any method disclosed herein do not have to be performed in the exact order disclosed unless explicitly stated. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0040] Aspects and embodiments are now described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0041] Figure 1 is a perspective view illustrating an upper base segment and a lower base segment of an ice skate according to one embodiment.

[0042] Figures 2a to 2c is a cross-sectional view throughFigure 1 a longitudinal sectional view of the skate shown, illustrating the respective condition of the rebounding device.

[0043] Figure 3 is a longitudinal sectional view of the skate shown, illustrating another embodiment. Figure 2a

[0044] Figure 4 is a longitudinal sectional view of the skate shown, illustrating another embodiment. Figure 2a and Figure 3 is a longitudinal sectional view of the skate shown, illustrating another embodiment.

[0045] Figure 4 is a longitudinal sectional view of the skate shown, illustrating another embodiment. Figure 2a , Figure 3 and Figure 4 is a longitudinal sectional view of the skate shown, illustrating another embodiment.

[0046] Figures 5a to 5c is a longitudinal sectional view of the skate shown, illustrating another embodiment. Figures 2a to 2c

[0047] Figure 6 is a perspective view of the assembly shown, illustrated at an enlarged scale. Figures 5a to 5c DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0048] In the following, aspects of the present disclosure are more fully described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which certain embodiments of the application are shown.

[0049] These aspects may, however, be embodied in many different forms, not just the specifically described forms described herein; rather, these embodiments are provided by way of example so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and fully convey the scope of all aspects of the application to those skilled in the art. Throughout the specification, like drawing reference numerals will be used for like elements.

[0050] Figure 1 ​​​An upper base section 10 and a lower base section 30 of a skate according to an embodiment of the present application are illustrated. The skate is intended for use in ice hockey play. The upper base section 10 is arranged to be secured to a boot (not shown) for receiving a user's foot. The upper base section 10 constitutes a blade holder and is integrally formed by injection molding of a polymeric material, such as polyamide. The upper base section is generally hollow and comprises a rear post 11, a front post 12 and a lower channel portion 13 connecting the rear post 11 and the front post 12. The channel portion 13 comprises two vertical channel walls 13a, 13b extending longitudinally from a front end to a rear end of the upper base section 10. The channel walls 13a, 13b define a longitudinally extending channel for receiving an upper portion of the lower base section 30. The upper base section 10 further comprises a reinforcement portion 14 comprising a plurality of beams interconnecting the rear post 11, the front post 12 and the channel portion 13. The rear post 11 and the front post 12 each have an upper flange portion 11a, 12a protruding transversely together with a through hole 11b, 12b for supporting and securing the boot.

[0051] The lower base section 30 is made of steel and comprises a blade portion 31 having a lower ice-contacting edge 32. By grinding the blade portion 31, any desired profile or curve can be imparted to the blade portion in order to suit the individual needs and preferences of each user. Correspondingly, the edge 32 can be sharpened to any cross-sectional geometry that suits the ice and other conditions in front of the user and the personal preferences of the user.

[0052] As best seen in Figure 1 and Figures 2a to 2c The lower base section 30 is formed as a one-piece integral assembly. The lower base section can be formed, for example, by stamping, cutting or milling a metal blank. Preferably, the lower base section 30 has a constant cross-sectional width, which can typically be in the range of 2-5 mm, and is normally about 3 mm.

[0053] An upper portion of the blade portion 31 of the lower base section 30 is received in the channel formed between the channel walls 13a, 13b. For secure and stable guidance and lateral fixation of the lower base section 30, the transverse distance between the channel walls 13a, 13b is essentially equal to the cross-sectional width of the lower base section 30. The lower base section 30 further comprises a plurality of protrusions extending upwardly from the blade portion 31 towards the upper base section 10. These protrusions comprise a first engagement member in the form of a first hook member 33 extending upwardly from the blade portion 31 and being received in a cavity 12c of the front post 12. A second engagement member in the form of a second hook member 34 extends upwardly from a rear end of the blade portion 31 and is received in a cavity 11c of the rear post 11.

[0054] The upper base portion 10 includes a first curved contact surface 15 presenting a front end 15a and a rear end 15b. In the illustrated example, the first contact surface 15 is provided as a lower edge of a replaceable insert 16 that is removably received in a downwardly open insert cavity 17 of the upper base section 10. In an alternative aspect not shown, the second contact surface can be provided as a downwardly facing edge surface formed integrally with the upper base section. The lower base section 30 presents a corresponding second contact surface 35 that extends along an upper edge of the blade portion 31 between a longitudinal middle region and a rear region of the lower base section 30. The second contact surface 35 presents a front end 35a that is vertically aligned with the front end 15a of the first contact surface 15, and a rear end 35b that is vertically aligned with the rear end 15a of the first contact surface 15. The front ends 15a, 35a are disposed approximately at the longitudinal center of the lower base section 30, and the rear ends 15b, 35b are disposed proximate the rear end of the lower base section 30. Generally, the length of the first contact surface 15 and the length of the second contact surface 35 (i.e., the distance between the front ends 15a, 35a and the rear ends 15b, 35b) can constitute about half of the overall length of the lower base section 30. For example, in a skate where the overall length of the lower base section is 300 mm, the ice-contacting edge of the blade portion can be 200 mm, and the length of the first contact surface and the length of the second contact surface can be about 120 mm.

[0055] The first contact surface 15 is curved in the longitudinal direction. In the illustrated example, the curvature is constant, and the radius is about 4 m. However, the radius of curvature can be selected according to, for example, the type of skate and the preferences of the user. In addition, the curvature need not be constant, but can vary along the length of the contact surface.

[0056] By providing the first contact surface 15 on a replaceable insert 16 that is removably secured to the upper base section 10, the skate can be readily adapted to the prevailing circumstances and the needs of the user by conveniently replacing the insert.

[0057] In the illustrated example aspect, the second contact surface 35 is planar over its entire length. However, the second contact surface can also be curved. In another alternative embodiment aspect not shown, the lower second contact surface can be curved, while the upper first contact surface can be planar.

[0058] In any case, the first and second contact surfaces 15, 35, at least one of which is curved, allow the upper chassis segment 10 to be pivoted by a rolling contact motion without a fixed point of rotation relative to the lower chassis segment 30. During such relative pivoting movement, the instantaneous contact region (CR) between the first and second contact surfaces 15, 35 will move back and forth between the front and rear ends 15a, 15b of the first contact surface 15 and between the front and rear ends 16a, 16b of the second contact surface 35. In Figure 2a , the upper chassis segment 10 has been pivoted forward to its most forward position, whereby the instantaneous contact region CR is located at the front ends 15a, 35a of the first and second contact surfaces 15, 35. Correspondingly, in Figure 2b , the upper chassis segment 10 has been pivoted backward to its most rearward position, whereby the instantaneous contact region CR is located at the rear ends 15b, 35b of the first and second contact surfaces 15, 35.

[0059] The skate further comprises a coupling structure connecting the upper and lower chassis segments 10, 30 while allowing said relative pivoting movement. The coupling structure comprises a springback device 50 arranged to elastically urge the relative pivoting movement forward to a neutral position, at which the instantaneous contact region CR is located at the front ends 15a, 35a of the first and second contact surfaces 15, 35. The neutral position is shown in Figure 2a . By applying a force to the upper chassis segment 10 behind the front ends 15a, 35a of the contact surfaces 15, 35, the upper chassis segment 30 can be temporarily pivoted backward so that the instantaneous contact region CR moves backward towards the rear ends 15b, 35b, as shown in Figure 2b . Once such external force is released, the springback device 50 urges the relative movement back to the neutral position shown in Figure 2a .

[0060] In Figures 2a to 2cIn the illustrated embodiment aspect, the return device 50 comprises a spring member 51 which is received in a cavity 12c of the front post 12 of the upper base section 10. The spring member 51 is pivotally secured to the front post 12 and comprises a generally U-shaped resilient arm. A first end 51a of the resilient arm presents a circular through hole which receives a circular rod 12d which extends transversely through the cavity 12c of the front post 12 between opposite side walls of the front post 12. A second end 51b of the resilient arm comprises a cylindrical portion having an outer first engagement surface 51c which is removably received in an engagement seat of a second engagement surface 33a of a first hook member 33 which forms the lower base section 30. The cylindrical portion of the second end 51b also presents a transverse recess or through hole 52 for receiving a tool (not shown) as will be further described below.

[0061] In Figure 2a In the illustrated position, the spring member 51 has been initially pre-tensioned by being pivotally secured to the rod 12d and in engagement with the second engagement portion 33a of the engagement seat such that it urges relative pivotal movement between the upper base section 10 and the lower base section 30 to a most forward neutral pivotal position. By exerting a relative force between the upper base section 10 and the lower base section 30 rearwardly of the forward end 15a of the contact surface 15 and the forward end 25a of the contact surface 35, the spring member will deform and further tension to allow a rearward pivotal movement to Figure 2b the illustrated position. Upon release of said force, the energy stored in the spring member 51 during further tensioning causes a reverse pivotal movement back to Figure 2a the illustrated neutral position.

[0062] The upper base section 10 also comprises a first stop surface 17 which is formed on a lower transversely extending wall 19 which connects the side walls of the front post 12. The lower base section 30 presents a corresponding second stop surface 37 disposed on the upper edge of the blade portion 31 in the forward region thereof. The first stop surface 17 and the second stop surface 37 are disposed so as to come into contact with each other when the instantaneous contact region CR has reached the forward end 15a of the contact surface 15 and the forward end 35a of the contact surface 35. Thereby, any further forward pivotal movement beyond the neutral position is effectively prevented. The structure of the cooperating first stop surface 17 and second stop surface 37 allows any force exerted on the upper base section 10 forward of the contact surfaces 15, 35 and at the neutral position to be transmitted directly and inelastically to the blade portion 31 without any yielding.

[0063] The lower transverse wall 19 of the front post 12 also provides an arrest for the spring member 51. For example, if the front portion of the lower chassis section 30 is snagged or hooked by a surrounding object such that the front portion is at risk of being separated from the upper chassis section 10, the spring member 51 will come into contact with the lower transverse wall 19, thereby preventing further pivoting and extension of the spring member 51. In this way, the first engagement surface 51c on the second end 51b of the spring member 51 will maintain its engagement with the second engagement surface 33a of the engagement seat of the first hook member 33 of the lower chassis section 30, such that the front portion of the lower chassis section 30 is prevented from being inadvertently separated from the upper chassis section 10. The lower transverse wall portion 19 also prevents over- deformation and tensioning of the spring member 51 upon such inadvertent movement of the front portion of the lower chassis section, thereby reducing the risk of fatigue failure of the spring member 51.

[0064] At the rear post 11, the upper chassis section 10 presents an upwardly facing third contact surface 18 provided at a lower wall portion 20 extending transversely through the rear post cavity 11c between the opposing side walls and the rear wall of the rear post 11. A downwardly facing fourth stop surface 38 is provided on the second hook member 34 of the lower chassis section. The third and fourth stop surfaces 18, 38 are arranged such that there is a small distance between them when the first and second stop surfaces 17, 37 are in contact with each other and thus in relative pivotal movement in the neutral position. Thus, the third and fourth stop surfaces 18, 38 do not contribute to defining the foremost neutral position of relative pivotal movement. Rather, the third and fourth stop surfaces 18, 38 are provided for safety purposes to prevent the rear portion of the lower chassis section 30 from being inadvertently separated from the upper chassis section 10 in the event that the rear blade portion is snagged or hooked by any surrounding object.

[0065] A downwardly facing fifth contact surface 21 is provided on the underside of the lower wall portion 20 of the rear post 11, and a sixth stop surface 41 is provided on the upper edge of the blade portion 31 rearward of the second hook member 34. When the instantaneous contact region CR reaches the rear end 15b of the first contact surface 15 and the rear end 35b of the second contact surface 35 during rearward pivoting, the fifth and sixth stop surfaces 21, 41 come into contact with each other, such that the pivotal movement is limited beyond the rearmost pivotal position shown in Figure 2b where the instantaneous contact region is located at the rear end 15b of the contact surface 15 and the rear end 35b of the contact surface 35.

[0066] Referring to Figure 2a and Figure 2cThe skate is further arranged to allow easy removal and replacement of the lower base section 30. This replacement of the lower base section is highly advantageous, for example, in ice hockey games, where it allows quick replacement of a worn blade with a sharp blade. To this end, the coupling arrangement comprises a release device as described below.

[0067] At least one or both opposite lateral side walls of the front post 11 are provided with a substantially V-shaped slot 22. This slot 22 allows a pointed tool (not shown) to be inserted into a recess or through-hole 52 provided at the second end 51b of the spring member 51. In Figure 2a In the shown neutral position, the tool can be inserted into the recess or through-hole 52, after which it is pulled forward along the V-shaped slot 22, thereby disengaging the first engagement surface 51c of the spring member 51 from the second engagement surface 33a of the first hook member 33. Figure 2c It is illustrated how, upon counterclockwise pivoting of the spring member 51 about the rod 12d, the second end 51b of the spring member 51 is pulled in this way to an intermediate position. In this intermediate position, the spring member 51 is released from the first hook member 33, so that the front portion of the lower base section can be pulled out of the passage portion 13 of the upper base section 10. Thereafter, continued removal of the front portion of the lower base section 30 allows the second hook member 34 to disengage from the lower wall portion 20 of the rear post 12, so that the lower base section 30 can be completely separated from the upper base section 10.

[0068] To attach the same or another lower base section, the second hook member 34 is first inserted into the passage portion 13 and engages the lower wall portion 20 of the rear post 11. Thereafter, the front portion of the lower base section 30 is pivoted into the front portion of the passage portion 13, so that the first hook member 33 is inserted into the front post 12. During this insertion, the spring member 51 is allowed to pivot counterclockwise, so that its second end 51b does not interfere with the insertion of the first hook member 33. When the lower base section 30 has been inserted into the passage portion 13 of the upper base section 10, the tool can be inserted through the front portion of the V-shaped slot 22 to engage the recess or through-hole 52 of the second end 51b of the spring member 51. To complete the fixation of the lower base section, the tool is then used to bring the first engagement surface 51c of the second end 51b into engagement with the second engagement surface 33a of the first hook member 33. During this engagement operation, the spring member 51 is pivoted clockwise and pre-tensioned, to ensure that the momentary contact region CR is firmly pushed towards the neutral position as described above.

[0069] When the lower base segment 30 has been removed from the upper base segment 10, the replaceable insert 16 can be easily removed from the insert cavity 17. However, in order to prevent the insert 16 from being accidentally removed from the insert cavity, for example when it is desired to only replace the lower base segment 30, the insert 16 and / or the insert cavity 17 can be provided with retaining means for retaining the insert 16 from falling out of the cavity 17. In the illustrated example, such releasable retention is achieved by a light press fit of the insert 16 into the insert cavity 17. In order to remove the insert 16, a pointed tool (not shown) such as a screwdriver can be inserted between the insert 16 and the cavity wall and used to bend the insert out of the press fit engagement with the cavity 17. In alternative, not illustrated, embodiments, the retaining means can comprise snap fit means, screw means, etc.

[0070] Figure 3 Another embodiment of a skate is illustrated. In this embodiment, the upper base segment 10 and the lower base segment 30 are substantially identical to the upper base segment and the lower base segment described above and illustrated in Figures 1 to 2c the above description. Accordingly, these components are not described again here. However, in this embodiment, the return means is different from the spring member 51 described above. Here, the return means comprises a torsion spring 60 made of spring wire and comprising a central coil 61. A first leg 62 having a first end 62a and a second leg 63 having a second end 63a extend from the central coil 61. The first end 61a presents a circular through hole which receives the transverse bar 12d of the front post 12 of the upper base segment 10, such that the torsion spring 60 is pivotally secured to the front post 12 and received in the front post cavity 12c. In this way, the torsion spring 60 is pivotally secured to the front post 12 of the upper base segment 10. The second end 63a comprises an annular ring having a first engagement surface 63c which can be received in a second engagement surface 33a of the engagement seat of the first hook member 33 of the lower base segment 30. The annular ring also defines an inner through hole which can receive a tool (not shown) for moving the second end along the V-shaped slot 22 of the front post 12 when the first engagement surface 63c is to be disengaged from and engaged with the second engagement surface 33a of the first hook member, in order to release the lower base segment 30 and attach the lower base segment to the upper base segment 10.

[0071] The torsion spring 60 functions in the same way as the spring member 51 described above, for urging the instant contact zone of the first and second contact surfaces 15, 35 to the front ends 15a, 35a, and for allowing the lower base segment 30 to be released and attached to the upper base segment 10.

[0072] Figure 4A further embodiment of a skate is illustrated. Also in this embodiment aspect, the upper base section 10 and the lower base section 30 are substantially identical to the upper base section and the lower base section described above and illustrated in Figures 1 to 2c Fig. 1. Therefore, these components are not described again here. In this embodiment aspect, the resilient means are different from the spring member 51 described above. Here, the resilient means comprise a coiled expansion spring 70 made of spring wire and comprising a central coil 71. A first hook 72 and a second hook 73 extend from respective ends of the central coil 71. The first hook 72 is hooked around the transverse bar 12d of the front post 12 of the upper base section 10. The second hook 73 has a first engagement surface 73c that engages a second engagement surface 33a of the first hook member 33a of the lower base section 30.

[0073] The coiled expansion spring 70 functions in the same way as the spring member 51 described above for pushing the instant contact zone of the first contact surface 15 and the second contact surface 35 to the front ends 15a, 35a and for allowing the lower base section 30 to be released and attached to the upper base section 10.

[0074] Figures 5a to 5b and Figure 6 A further embodiment of a skate is illustrated. Also in this embodiment aspect, the upper base section 10 and the lower base section 30 are substantially identical to the upper base section and the lower base section described above and illustrated in Figures 1 to 4 Fig. 1. Therefore, these components are not described again here. In this embodiment aspect, the resilient means 80 are different from the spring member 51, 60, 70 described above. Here, the resilient means 80 comprise a linkage mechanism received in the front post cavity 12c and comprising a first linkage arm 81, a second linkage arm 82 and a coiled expansion spring 83. The first linkage arm 81 exhibits a circular through hole 84 that receives the bar 12d of the front post 12 of the upper base section such that the first linkage arm 81 is pivotally secured to the front post 12 of the upper base section 10.

[0075] The first arm 81 comprises a first lever portion 85 extending forwardly from the through hole 8 and a second lever portion 86 extending rearwardly from the through hole 8. The first end 82a of the second link arm 82 is pivotally connected to the free end of the second lever portion 86. The second end 82b of the second link arm 82 comprises a circular portion having a first engagement surface 82c which is releasably received in a second engagement surface 33a of the first hook member 33 of the lower base section 30. The second end 82b also presents a transverse recess or through hole 82d for receiving a tool (not shown). The spring 83 comprises a first hook-like end portion 83a connected to the first lever portion 85 of the first link arm 81 and a second hook-like end portion 83b connected to the second end 82b of the second pivot arm 82. In this way, the spring 83 is arranged to urge the first lever portion 85 of the first pivot arm and the second end 82b of the second pivot arm 82 towards each other during relative pivotal movement about the pivotal connection between the second lever portion 86 of the first pivot arm 81 and the first end 82a of the second pivot arm 82.

[0076] Figure 5a It is shown how the linkage mechanism urges the instantaneous contact zone CR to the neutral foremost position where the front end 15a of the first contact surface 15 and the front end 35a of the second contact surface 35 are in contact with each other. In Figure 5b , an external force has been applied to the upper base section 10 rearwardly of the front end 15a of the first contact surface 15 so that the instantaneous contact zone CR has moved to the rearmost position where the rear end 15b of the first contact surface 15 and the rear end 35b of the second contact surface 35 are in contact with each other. In this position and in any intermediate position of the instantaneous contact zone CR, the linkage mechanism urges, i.e. strives to return the instantaneous contact zone CR to Figure 5a the neutral foremost position shown. When the linkage mechanism has been extended to the position shown in Figure 5b , the second end 82b of the second pivot arm 82 is in contact with the lower transverse wall portion 19 of the front post 12, thereby limiting the movement of the second link arm 82 and avoiding overextension of the spring 81.

[0077] In Figure 5cIn the middle, it is illustrated how a pick tool (not shown) is inserted into the through hole 82d of the second arm 82 of the linkage mechanism and how the first engagement surface 82c of the second end 82b is disengaged from the engagement with the second engagement surface 33a of the first hook member 33 of the lower base section 30 by pulling the tool forward. During this operation, the pick tool is introduced into the front post cavity 12 through a slot hole (not shown) provided in one or both side walls of the front post 12. When the linkage mechanism has been disengaged from the lower base section 30 in this way, the lower base section 30 can easily be removed and replaced as described above. After a new lower base section has been inserted into the passage portion 18, the first engagement surface 82c of the second linkage arm 82 is brought into engagement with the second engagement surface 33a of the first hook member 33 of the lower base section by using a pick tool (not shown) to thereby secure the lower base section 30 to the upper base section.

[0078] Aspects of the disclosure are described above with reference to a few embodiments and examples. However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that other embodiments, besides those explicitly disclosed above, are equally possible within the scope of the invention as defined by the appended patent claims.

Claims

1. An ice skate for skating on ice, comprising: - an upper base segment comprising a first contact surface having a front end and a rear end; - a lower base segment comprising a second contact surface having a front end and a rear end; as well as a coupling structure comprising a resilient device, the coupling structure being arranged to mechanically couple the upper base segment and the lower base segment, wherein at least one of the first contact surface and the second contact surface is curved, wherein the coupling structure is configured to allow the upper base segment to pivot relative to the lower base segment through rolling contact motion between the first contact surface and the second contact surface, so that an instantaneous contact area between the first contact surface and the second contact surface moves back and forth between the front end and the rear end of the first contact surface and between the front end and the rear end of the second contact surface; wherein the rebound device is configured to push the instantaneous contact area to a neutral position located at the front end of the first contact surface and the front end of the second contact surface, and Wherein, the rebound device is completely arranged in front of the front end of the first contact surface and the front end of the second contact surface.

2. The ice skate according to claim 1, wherein: The resilient device is configured to engage an upwardly protruding first engagement member of the lower base segment.

3. The skate shoe according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The upper base segment includes at least one first stop surface and the lower base segment includes at least one second stop surface, and the first stop surface and the second stop surface are configured to prevent the instantaneous contact area from moving forward beyond the front end of the first contact surface and the front end of the second contact surface when contacting each other.

4. The ice skate according to claim 3, wherein: The first stopper surface and the second stopper surface are provided in front of the front ends of the first contact surface and the second contact surface.

5. The skate shoe according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The upper base segment includes at least one third stop surface and the lower base segment includes at least one fourth stop surface, the third stop surface and the fourth stop surface being configured to prevent the rear portion of the lower base segment from separating from the upper base segment when in contact with each other.

6. The skate shoe according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The resilient device is pivotally secured to the upper base segment.

7. The skate shoe according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The resilient device is arranged to deform when the transient contact zone moves from the neutral position, and wherein the upper base segment comprises a resilient limiting device arranged to limit a maximum deformation of the resilient device.

8. The skate shoe according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The resilient device is fixed to the upper base segment and is configured to selectively engage with the lower base segment to urge the transient contact zone to the neutral position and disengage from the lower base segment to allow the lower base segment to be removed from the upper base segment.

9. The skate shoe according to claim 8, wherein: The resilient device pivots between an engaged position in which the resilient device engages the lower base segment and a released position in which the resilient device disengages from the lower base segment.

10. The skate shoe according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The rebound device includes a linkage mechanism including a first linkage arm pivotally connected to the upper base segment, a second linkage arm pivotally connected to the first linkage arm, and a spring configured to urge respective free ends of the first and second linkage arms toward each other.

11. The skate shoe according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The first contact surface is provided on a replaceable insert that is removably secured to the upper base segment.

12. The skate shoe according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The curvature of the first contact surface presents a constant radius over the entire length of the first contact surface, and / or the curvature of the second contact surface presents a constant radius over the entire length of the second contact surface.

13. The skate shoe according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: At least a portion of the first contact surface and / or the second contact surface exhibits a constant curvature, the radius of the constant curvature being greater than 1 m.

14. The skate shoe according to claim 13, wherein: The radius of the constant curvature is 1 m to 10 m.

15. The skate shoe according to claim 13, wherein: The radius of the constant curvature is 2m to 8m.

16. The skate shoe according to claim 13, wherein: The radius of the constant curvature is 3m to 7m.

17. The skate according to claim 1 , wherein at least a portion of the first contact surface and / or the second contact surface exhibits a curvature and a length such that, when the contact area moves between a front end and a rear end of the first contact surface and between a front end and a rear end of the second contact surface, a maximum pivot angle is between 1° and 10°.

18. The skate shoe according to claim 17, wherein: The maximum pivot angle is between 2° and 5°.

19. The skate shoe according to claim 17, wherein: The maximum pivot angle is 3°.

20. The skate shoe according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The upper base section is secured to a boot for receiving a user's foot, and the lower base section includes an ice blade.

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