Wing with inflatable support structure and handle for sports using wind-powered movement

Abstract

The invention relates to a wing (1) with an at least partially inflatable support structure for sports that use the wind for movement on land or on water. The wing (1) has a sailcloth (4), which is stretched by an inflatable front tube (2) and an inflatable strut (3). The technical solution described is characterised in that at least one connection element (8) is arranged in the region of the strut (3) and / or the windward side (5) of the front tube (2), on which connection element a handle (6) can be fastened and locked in at least two different orientations and / or positions relative to the connection element (8).

Description

[0001] Wing with inflatable support structure and handle for sports with wind-powered locomotion

[0002] The invention relates to a manually handled wing suitable for sports involving wind-powered locomotion. A generic wing has an at least partially inflatable support structure and a sailcloth stretched between an inflatable front tube and an inflatable strut of the support structure, and at least one handle connected to the strut and / or the front tube for handling the support structure. During use, the front tube, which is bent at least partially toward the strut, is exposed to airflow on a windward side. The strut extends, on the side opposite the windward side, from the front tube backward toward a leech of the sailcloth.

[0003] A variety of sports are known in which wind is used to propel an athlete on water or on land. The invention described below relates to a wing for performing such sports, which can be held by means of holding elements and / or lines and moved into the desired position. The wing can generally be used both on land in combination with a skateboard or on the water together with a water sports board, board, or surfboard. It is held by a person standing on the board using handles and moved as needed.

[0004] In recent years, so-called wing surfing has gained popularity using dedicated water sports boards. In this water sport, the surfer stands on a board and holds a wing, which is otherwise unattached to the board, by handles. Depending on the wind direction, wind strength, and waves, the desired direction of travel, and the maneuvers the surfer wishes to perform, the wing is held with the hands and its orientation is varied as needed.

[0005] The main components of the inflatable support structure of a wing, as used in wing surfing or kite surfing, are a front tube, the upwind side of which forms a leading edge during travel, a strut on the leeward side of the front tube and extending perpendicular to it backwards, and a sailcloth, also called a canopy, which is stretched between the front tube and the strut. Handles are attached to the strut, and sometimes also to the strut and the front tube. A wing of this type, used as a towing kite for kite surfing, is known from DE 10 2016 113 858 A1. The described wing has a front tube, a plurality of struts, each of which is inflatable, and a sailcloth stretched between the front tube and the struts.The wing described in this document is characterized by the provision of at least additional stiffening elements which are integrated into the sailcloth and arranged perpendicular to the trailing edge of the sailcloth.

[0006] Furthermore, a wing suitable for kitesurfing is known from US Pat. No. 7,032,864 B2. It also features an inflatable support structure with a front tube and a plurality of struts extending from the front tube toward the leech of the stretched sailcloth. A key feature of the described technical solution is that the struts are integrated into the sailcloth, and the upper boundary wall of the struts partially extends beyond the upper flow-over surface of the wing.

[0007] The "Nova" wing, owned by the applicant, North Kiteboarding Australasia Ltd., is also known. It features an inflatable support structure with a curved front tube and a strut attached to it, extending rearward from the front tube and supporting a sailcloth. The wing, available in various sizes, features handles attached to the underside of the strut for adjusting the wing to the desired windward orientation, and a handle on the upwind side of the front tube that allows the wing to be easily towed while surfing in the waves.

[0008] The wing handles are central elements, as they play a vital role in safely holding and controlling the wing. However, the handles are attached to the strut and front tube in fixed positions and orientations, making the use of a wing difficult for people of different heights, especially those with different arm lengths. Likewise, depending on the rider's skill level and the maneuvers performed by the rider, handles in different positions and orientations are required.

[0009] Based on the technical solutions known from the prior art, the object of the invention is to further develop a generic grand piano in such a way that it can be handled particularly simply and effectively, even under different conditions. Suitable handling of the grand piano should also be possible for people of different heights and arm lengths, taking into account different environmental conditions as well as the driving behavior and driving maneuvers planned by the respective user. Furthermore, the specified technical solution should enable different people to use the same grand piano and perform different driving maneuvers, while always ensuring effective handling. Furthermore, the positioning and orientation of the handles of a generic grand piano should be easily adjustable from an ergonomic perspective.It should be easy to adjust the elements used to handle a wing and reliably prevent unintentional adjustment during use.

[0010] Furthermore, the elements required for handling a piano, especially the handles, should be able to be produced effectively from both a process-technical and economic point of view and yet still have a secure connection to the piano at all times.

[0011] The above-mentioned object is achieved with a wing according to claim 1 and a handle according to claim 22. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims and are explained in more detail in the following description with partial reference to figures.

[0012] The invention relates to a wing with an at least partially inflatable support structure for sports involving wind-powered locomotion. The wing has a sailcloth that is stretched between an inflatable front tube and an inflatable strut of the support structure, and at least one handle connected to the strut for handling the support structure. During use, the front tube is exposed to the wind on a windward side and, in an at least partially inflated state, is bent at least partially toward the strut. The inflatable strut extends rearward from the front tube toward the leech of the sailcloth on the side opposite the windward side.The invention is characterized in that at least one connecting element is arranged in the region of the strut and / or the upwind side of the front tube, in particular connected to or attached to the front tube and / or the strut, and the handle has a fastening structure designed to fasten and lock the handle to the connecting element in at least two different positions, orientations, and / or positions. The essential feature of the invention is thus that the wing has at least one connecting element to which a suitably designed handle can be fastened in the desired position as required.In this context, it is advantageously conceivable for the handle to be attached to the connecting element in different orientations and / or different positions, in particular depending on the size and / or arm length of a user, their driving ability and / or the driving maneuvers planned by the user. In this case, it is advantageous if the handle has a suitable fastening structure and / or means to be able to lock it securely and as needed relative to the connecting element, so that movement of the handle relative to the compensating element is excluded during use of the wing, and also to detach the handle from the compensating element, at least in part, in such a way that it can first be moved and then attached to the compensating element at a different location or in a different orientation.It is particularly advantageous if the fastening structure of the handle is designed in such a way that it can be moved, in particular displaced, relative to the compensating element for its adjustment.

[0013] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the connecting element extends at least partially in the longitudinal direction of the strut and / or the front tube. Preferably, the connecting element has a suitable connecting structure to enable secure locking of the handle with its fastening structure relative to the connecting element, wherein the fastening and / or locking of the handle and also the release is particularly preferably possible in a simple manner and without tools.

[0014] According to a specific embodiment, the connecting element has a rail extending at least partially in the longitudinal direction of the strut and / or the front tube for at least indirectly fastening the fastening structure. The rail represents a guide element to which the handle can be fastened via its fastening structure in a suitable manner at at least two points or the corresponding positions and / or orientations. Preferably, the rail and the fastening structure of the handle are designed such that, as required, both the handle is securely locked to the rail and the handle with its fastening structure can be moved, in particular displaced, along the rail to the position provided for locking.It is particularly advantageous if a connection between the fastening structure and the rail can be loosened if necessary, at least to such an extent that the handle can be moved relative to the rail relatively easily.

[0015] Advantageously, the rail is designed in the form of a tube with a round, oval or square cross-section, a cylinder with a round or oval cross-section, a cuboid with a rectangular or square cross-section or with an L-, I- or T-shaped cross-section. It is essential that the rail and the fastening structure provided on the handle are coordinated with one another so that the handle can be locked in at least two different positions and / or in at least two different orientations relative to the rail. In this context, it is conceivable for the rail to be surrounded at least partially by a flexible and / or elastic material, in particular a material comprising at least one plastic, a rubber and / or a textile material.

[0016] Furthermore, it is conceivable for the splint to comprise at least one at least virtually inelastic material. Preferably, the at least one at least virtually inelastic material is selected from a group of materials that includes wood, plastic, Styrofoam, cured foams, metal, and steel.

[0017] In a specific development of the invention, the rail is arranged in a cavity enclosed by the flexible material, wherein the cavity is at least partially closed by an adhesive, a stitched seam, and / or a welded seam. It is particularly advantageous if the rail is arranged within a flexible material that was also used to manufacture the strut and / or the front tube. When manufacturing a wing, it is possible in this case to shape the material forming the surface of the strut and / or front tube such that the rail is arranged inside, i.e., completely enclosed by the material.Here, the material between the strut and / or the front tube and the compensating element is glued, sewn, or welded in such a way that the rail is arranged within a pocket formed by the material, and a stitched seam, adhesive surface, and / or welded connection is located between the compensating element with the rail surrounded by the flexible material of the strut and the surface of the strut and / or the front tube. Preferably, the stitched seam, adhesive surface, and / or welded connection run in the longitudinal direction of the strut and / or front tube, so that a type of web is formed in this region, and the fastening structure of a handle can be fixed to the compensating element, at least partially encompassing the rail enclosed by a material.

[0018] According to an alternative embodiment, a rail-like connecting structure of the connecting element, which runs in the longitudinal direction of the strut and / or the front tube, is manufactured using a plastic, for example, PVC, PU, ​​or TPU. The connecting element can have a continuous or interrupted contour in the longitudinal direction of the strut and / or the front tube, for example with notches. In this case, a web is preferably provided between the rail- or mushroom-shaped connecting structure and the surface of the strut and / or front tube, so that the fastening structure can at least partially enclose the rail-like connecting structure of the connecting element for fastening and locking a handle.A specific development of the invention provides that the connecting element has at least one plate-shaped base element fastened to the strut and / or the front tube, said base element preferably having a rectangular base surface curved in accordance with the contour of the surface of the strut and / or front tube. A connecting element designed in this way therefore has, on the one hand, a plate-shaped base element which is fastened flatly, for example by gluing, welding and / or sewing, to the surface of the strut and / or the front tube, and, on the other hand, a connecting structure, in particular with at least one rail element on the surface of which the material is also used to manufacture the base element. It is again conceivable that the connecting structure, for example in the form of a rail, is designed such that the fastening structure of a handle encloses it at least partially when locked.In order to change the positioning and / or orientation of the handle relative to the connecting element, the connection between the fastening structure of the handle and the connecting structure of the connecting element is at least slightly loosened so that the handle can be moved in a suitable manner.

[0019] In general, it is conceivable to arrange or fasten a connecting element designed according to the invention for attaching a handle to the strut and / or the front tube of a wing. This is due to the fact that it is helpful for a wing user if at least one handle is arranged both in the area of ​​the strut and on the upwind side of the front tube, which is exposed to the airflow during use of the wing. It is particularly advantageous if at least two handles are provided on the strut and one handle in the area of ​​the upwind side of the front tube, which is exposed to the airflow during use.

[0020] According to a further embodiment of the invention, the fastening structure of the handle has at least two sub-elements which, in a locked operating state of the handle, are fastened to one another in such a way that they at least partially enclose the connecting element. The two sub-elements can preferably be fastened to one another via a screw connection and / or a clamping lock. In addition, the use of wedge-shaped elements can be useful in order to be able to generate the required contact forces. In this context, it is conceivable that the fastening structure, here in particular the two sub-elements of the fastening structure, can be moved apart from one another or a press fit can be loosened accordingly in order to enable movement of the handle relative to the connecting element, such that the handle can be moved, transferred into a desired position or orientation, and finally locked again in the desired position.Furthermore, it is conceivable for a handle to have a modular design, for example, with elements that form at least part of the fastening structure and with elements that serve to actually grip the handle. The individual elements can preferably be plugged together and secured to one another using suitable connecting elements.

[0021] In a particular embodiment of the invention, the handle is locked to the connecting element in a first operating position of the fastening structure and is movable relative to the connecting element in a second operating position of the fastening structure. The handle and, in particular, the fastening structure are thus designed such that the handle can be quickly and easily removed from the connecting element and reattached to it, or moved relative to it, as needed. It is particularly advantageous if the handle is displaceable relative to the connecting element in the second operating position of the fastening structure.

[0022] Furthermore, a manually operable clamping mechanism is preferably provided, which is clamped in the first operating position and released in the second operating position, at least in such a way that a relative movement between the fastening structure of the handle and the connecting element, for example a rail, is enabled. It is therefore advantageous if the handle has at least one clamping element and an operating element operatively connected to the clamping element, wherein actuation of the operating element allows the clamping mechanism to be released and the handle to be transferred into the second operating position.

[0023] According to a particular embodiment, the handle at least partially comprises a flexible and / or elastic material which, at least in some regions, comprises a textile material, a plastic and / or a rubber. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable for the handle at least partially to comprise an at least virtually inelastic material which comprises a plastic, a wood, a metal and / or a steel. In this context, it is conceivable for the handle to comprise a flexible plastic and / or textile material in which an inelastic material is provided in a handle region, which enables the handle to be securely gripped and guided. In this case, the fastening structure of the handle could also comprise a solid, inelastic material in order to create a comparatively rigid connection between the handle and the connecting element.

[0024] In a very specific embodiment of the invention, a wing has a connecting element arranged on the strut for the required attachment of handles comprising rod-shaped gripping elements or support rods. The handles are preferably dimensioned such that at least two such handles can be attached to the connecting element of a strut, which in turn can be attached and locked in different positions relative to the connecting element. A rod-shaped gripping element is preferably arranged between two side elements and is preferably tubular or cylindrical in shape.It is therefore again essential that the at least one handle with the rod-shaped gripping element held on both sides by the side elements can be fixed in different positions relative to the connecting element in order to enable a user to attach the handle to the connecting element and thus to the strut in a manner adapted to the respective weather conditions, in particular the prevailing wind strength, the type of desired locomotion and their body measurements. The connecting element runs in the longitudinal direction of the strut and has a suitable connecting structure with cylindrical rails, which serves to at least indirectly attach the at least one handle, preferably two handles. The side elements receiving the rod-shaped gripping element on both sides also have a fastening structure that can be releasably and firmly engaged with the connecting structure of the connecting element.According to this particular embodiment, each side element has at least three components, namely a central part and two outer parts that can be arranged on either side of it. These parts can be connected to one another by means of a screw connection in such a way that a fastening structure that can be firmly connected to the connecting structure can be created, which fastening structure has two receptacles for each of the rails of the connecting structure. Preferably, the three parts have through-holes through which a screw can be inserted. This screw is screwed into a thread, in particular a thread of a nut, to connect the parts and to clamp the rails of the connecting structure in the receptacles of the fastening structure of the side elements.The required attachment of a handle can be achieved using a simple screw connection, whereby the two rails can be securely clamped between the outer sub-elements and the central sub-element of a side element of the handle. To detach a handle from the connecting structure of the connecting element and reattach it at a different location if necessary, simply loosen the two screw connections provided in the side elements and reattach them at a different location on the connecting element after repositioning the handle.

[0025] Furthermore, it is conceivable for the front tube, the strut, the canvas, the handle, the connecting element, and / or the rail to have, at least in some regions, fibers and / or particles made of glass and / or carbon for reinforcement. Such reinforcement, in particular with carbon or glass fibers, thus enables the strength of the corresponding elements of a wing to be increased in a conventionally known manner. Furthermore, the invention also relates to a handle for use with a wing, according to at least one of the previously described embodiments.In general, the invention additionally relates to a set consisting of a wing with a connecting element designed according to the invention and a handle which has a suitable fastening structure in order to be fastened and locked to the connecting element, which is fastened to the strut and / or the front tube of the wing, in at least two positions and / or orientations relative to the connecting element, so that unintentional slipping of the handle is excluded.

[0026] It is advantageous if the handle, in particular its fastening structure, has two partial elements which are placed around the connecting element to lock the handle relative to the connecting element and are pressed together with the aid of suitable fastening means in such a way that a reliable connection to the connecting element is established which can be released again as required.

[0027] In the following, the invention is explained in more detail, without limiting the general inventive concept, using exemplary embodiments with reference to the figures. In the figures:

[0028] Fig. 1: Perspective view of a wing designed according to the invention with connecting elements for attaching handles;

[0029] Fig. 2: Perspective sectional view of a strut with a connecting element and attached handle;

[0030] Fig. 3: Sectional view of a connecting element in two views with the fastening structure of a handle attached to it and detached therefrom;

[0031] Fig. 4: Sectional view of a connecting element;

[0032] Fig. 5: Different design configurations of the connection structure of a

[0033] connecting element;

[0034] Fig. 6: Comparison of two connection elements with rail-shaped connection structure;

[0035] Fig. 7: Sectional view of a connecting element and the fastening structure of a handle with means for absorbing increased lateral forces;

[0036] Fig. 8: Cross-sectional view of a connecting element and the fastening structure of a handle;

[0037] Fig. 9: Modular handle;

[0038] Fig. 10: Two different embodiments of a connecting element attached to a wing;

[0039] Fig. 11: A wing designed according to the invention with handles arranged in pairs on the connecting element; Fig. 12: A perspective view of a wing designed according to the invention with connecting elements for attaching support rods;

[0040] Fig. 13: Perspective view of a strut with gripping elements in the form of holding rods attached to it;

[0041] Fig. 14: Detailed view of a special embodiment of a connecting element for fastening a gripping element in the form of a holding rod to a connecting element with a connecting structure and

[0042] Fig. 15: special technical embodiment for fastening a hang handle to the connecting structure of a connecting element arranged on the strut of a wing designed according to the invention.

[0043] Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of a wing 1 designed according to the invention for sports in which the wind is used for propulsion on water or on land. The wing 1 shown has a front tube 2 and a strut 3, which, when inflated, stretch a sailcloth 4. During use, the front tube 2 is exposed to airflow, thus forming a leading edge on the upwind side 5 and is bent toward the strut 3. The leading edge is attached to the front tube 2 on the side opposite the upwind side 5 and extends rearward toward the leech 7 of the stretched sailcloth 4.

[0044] According to the invention, the illustrated wing 1 has a connecting element 8 both in the region of the strut 3 and on the upwind side 5 of the front tube 2, to which at least one handle e for handling the wing 1 can be fastened and locked in at least two different positions relative to the connecting element 8. The connecting elements 8 run, on the one hand, in the longitudinal direction of the strut 3 and, on the other hand, in the longitudinal direction of the front tube 2 on its upwind side 5. While the connecting element 8 arranged on the strut 3 extends at least almost over the entire length of the strut 3, the connecting element 8 provided on the front tube 2 is located only in the region of a portion of the front tube 2.

[0045] Depending on the size of a user of the wing 1 and / or the maneuvers planned by the user, handles 6 can be easily attached to the connecting elements 8 at the required location or in the desired position. The handles 6 used have suitable fastening structures 9 for this purpose, which are explained in more detail below.

[0046] Furthermore, it is important that the handles 6 fastened to a connecting element 8 and initially locked can, if necessary, be moved relatively easily into another position and locked there again. Preferably, at least two handles 6 are fastened to the strut 3 and one handle is fastened to the windward side 5 of the front tube 2. The particular advantage of the technical solution shown is that handles 6 can not only be fastened to the connecting element 8 in different positions and / or orientations in a relatively simple manner, but also that, as required, differently shaped handles 6 can be fastened to the connecting element(s) 8 using suitable fastening structures 9. It is thus also conceivable to fasten one, two or more handles 6 either to the strut 3 or the front tube 2 for certain driving maneuvers or, for example, for transport.

[0047] Fig. 2 shows a perspective sectional view of a strut 3 with a connecting element 8 fastened to the surface of the strut 3, on which a handle 6 that can be locked in at least two positions is arranged. The strut 3 shown is the so-called central strut 3, which extends on the leeward side opposite the windward side 5 of the front tube 2, which is exposed to the wind during use, perpendicular to the front tube 2 backwards in the direction of the leech 7 of a sailcloth 4 stretched between the front tube 2 and the strut 3. The essential feature of the illustrated embodiment is that the connecting element 8 is arranged in the longitudinal direction of the strut 3 at least almost parallel to the surface of the strut 3.Furthermore, the illustrated handle 6 has a fastening structure 9, which can be at least partially released or closed in order to optionally establish a force-locking connection with the connecting element 8 or to provide the possibility of moving the handle 6 relative to the connecting element 8. The fastening structure 9 of the handle 6 in this case has two partial elements 14 with shell-shaped recesses, which form the fastening structure 9 and can accommodate the connecting element 8 with its cylindrical connecting structure 10 and at least partially enclose it. Furthermore, the two partial elements 14 can be fastened to one another in such a way that the connecting element 8 is clamped in this position inside the fastening structure 9 of the handle 6 by means of a clamping mechanism 15, which can have screw and / or tensioning elements.

[0048] In order to enable suitable handling of a wing 1 designed according to the invention, a tubular or cylindrical gripping element 17 is provided between the two side elements 16, which have the fastening structures 9 described above.

[0049] The connecting element 8 shown in Fig. 2 has a connecting structure 10 with a tubular rail 11, to which the fastening structure 9 of the handle 6 can be selectively locked in a first operating position and relative to which the fastening structure 9 can be moved in a second operating position. According to the illustrated embodiment, the gripping element 17 comprises a rigid, inelastic material, for example, a plastic or a metal. It is also conceivable for the gripping element 17 to be formed by a flexible loop made of a textile material.

[0050] For fastening the connecting element 8 to the strut 3, a plate-shaped base element 13 is also provided, to which the two side elements 16 of the handle 6 are connected and which is glued to the strut 3 on its side facing the strut 3. It is also conceivable for the base element 13 to be sewn or welded to the strut 3.

[0051] Furthermore, a connecting structure 10, here a cylindrical cavity 12, is formed above the base element 13 from the same material from which the base element 13 is made. A core in the form of a rail 11 or a suitable material, e.g., a plastic, a cured foam, or a gas, can be arranged in this cavity 12. Alternatively, the core can also be formed integrally with the casing, i.e., made of the same material.

[0052] The cavity 12, which in this case forms a pocket and can be filled or unfilled and is particularly suitable for receiving a core, is connected to the base element 13 via a web 19, wherein in the region of the web 19 the surface parts surrounding the cavity 12 on opposite sides are welded, sewn or glued together. The connecting element 8 shown in Fig. 2 thus has as main components a plate-shaped base element 13 and a cylindrical or tubular connecting structure 10, between which there is a web 19 which was formed by sewing, welding or gluing the opposite side surfaces, wherein the interconnected side surfaces of the web 19 comprise the same material as the base element 13 and the surface parts surrounding the cavity 12.

[0053] Fig. 3 shows a sectional view of a connecting element 8 and the fastening structure 9 of a handle 6 in two different operating states, namely in Fig. 3 a) in a first operating state in which the fastening structure 9 is locked relative to the connecting element 8 and in Fig. 3 b) in a second operating state in which the fastening structure 9 is detached from the connecting element 8.

[0054] The connecting element 8 shown in Fig. 3 is fastened to the surface of a strut 3. The connecting element 8 has a plate-shaped base element 13 which is glued flat onto the surface of the strut 3, or alternatively sewn or welded to it. The connecting element 8 in turn has a tubular connecting structure 10 which, according to the embodiment shown, is filled with a cylindrical rail 11 as a core. As shown in Fig. 3, the fastening structure 9 of the handle 6 encloses the coated rail 11 of the connecting element 8, wherein the two partial elements 14 of the fastening structure 9 are connected to one another in such a way that a force-fitting connection and thus a firm and secure locking of the fastening structure 9 to the connecting structure 10 of the connecting element 8 is ensured.

[0055] Fig. 3 b) shows an operating state in which the fastening structure 9 has been detached from the connecting element 8. It can be clearly seen that the two sub-elements 14 forming the fastening structure 9 are separated from each other, allowing a comparatively simple detachment of the fastening structure 9 and the associated handle 6 from the connecting element 8. The connection of the two sub-elements 14 can be achieved using a screw connection (not shown in this view) or a clamping mechanism.

[0056] Fig. 4 shows a sectional view of the connecting element 8 for a wing 1 designed according to the invention. The connecting element 8 corresponds to that shown in Fig. 3 and is formed by a flat piece of textile or plastic, wherein a plate-shaped base element 13 suitable for attachment to a strut 3 and / or a front tube 2, a cylindrical connecting structure 10, and a web 19 arranged between the base element 13 and the connecting structure 10 are provided. As a core, the connecting structure 10 has a cylindrical rail 11, which is surrounded by the flat piece of textile or plastic of the connecting element 8, which forms its basic structure 13.

[0057] Between the base element 13 and the rail 11 of the connecting element 8, a web 8 is provided, which is formed by the textile or plastic material with which the rail 11 is also covered. To produce the web 19, the two superimposed layers of the textile or plastic material used for the connecting element 8 are welded, glued, or sewn together. The rail 11 forms a solid or rigid, at least almost inelastic core within the surrounding textile or plastic material and is formed optionally from a plastic, a metal, or a cured foam.

[0058] Fig. 5 shows different designs of the connection structure 10 of a connection element 8, each in cross-sectional views. As shown, different cross-sectional shapes can be selected for the profile of the connection structure 10, and the number of elements used in a connection structure 10 can be varied. The individual elements can be arranged symmetrically or non-symmetrically to an axis running in the longitudinal direction of a strut 3 and / or front tube 2. In addition, Fig. 6 shows two connection elements 8 which can be fastened longitudinally to the surface of a strut 3 and / or a front tube 2. For fastening, the connection elements 8 shown each have plate-shaped base elements 13 which can be glued, sewn, or welded to the surface of a strut 3 and / or a front tube 2. Fig.In this context, Fig. 6 a) shows a connecting element 8 with a connecting structure 10 extending uniformly in the longitudinal direction, which in turn is tubular or cylindrical. In contrast, the connecting structure 10 shown in Fig. 6 b) is characterized by periodic interruptions, so that a plurality of cylinders arranged in series and connected to one another are provided to accommodate the fastening structure 9.

[0059] In addition, detailed views "A" and "B" show cross-sections of alternative designs for the realization of the inner core of a connection structure 10. According to view "A", the core, as already explained above, is formed by a rigid material, such as a metal or plastic rail, which is surrounded by a flexible textile or plastic material. In the alternative embodiment according to view "B", the entire connection element 8, consisting of plate-shaped base element 13, web 19 and connection structure 10, comprises a single material, in particular a plastic and particularly preferably a polyurethane (PU), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC). In this case, it is conceivable that the connection element 8, in particular the connection structure 10, is produced at least partially by means of an extrusion process.

[0060] Fig. 7 shows a sectional view of a handle 6 fastened to a strut 3. According to the embodiment shown, a connecting element 8 extending in the longitudinal direction of the strut 3 is provided on the surface of the strut 3. This connecting element has a tubular or cylindrical connecting structure 10 that also extends in the longitudinal direction of the strut. The fastening structure 9 of the handle 6, which has a correspondingly suitable recess, is fastened and locked in the desired position and orientation to this connecting structure 10. When using the handle 6 shown in Fig. 7, forces can act in different directions on the handle 6 and the connecting element 8, as indicated by the arrows “F”, and are ultimately transferred to the strut 3.The handle shown in Figure 7 is designed such that it has side elements 16, each of which is supported over a comparatively large area on the upper side of a plate-shaped base element 13 of the connecting element 8. In this way, the forces and torques that occur can be reliably transmitted first to the connecting element 8 and then via the base element 13 of the connecting element 8 to the strut 3. A cylindrical gripping element 17 is arranged between the side elements 16, which is attached to them via receptacles 18 and can be grasped by a user to handle a wing 1 used for locomotion on land or on water.

[0061] In order to achieve the best possible force and torque transmission from the handle e to the connecting element 8 and thus to the strut 3 and / or the front tube 2 of a wing 1 designed according to the invention, the handle 6 and / or the connecting element 8 are designed such that forces and torques occurring during use are transmitted safely and over the largest possible area. In this context, Fig. 8 shows, in sectional views, exemplary technical designs of connecting elements 8 and handles 6 which enable optimal force and torque transmission. According to the exemplary embodiment shown in Fig. 8 a), the connecting structure 10 has a pin or a rail with a rectangular cross-section and cylindrical rails arranged on both sides thereof, which are at least partially enclosed by a correspondingly designed fastening structure 9 of a handle 6.Due to this design of the connection structure 10 of the connection element 8 and the fastening structure 9 of the handle 6, forces introduced in different directions via the handle 6 can be safely absorbed and transmitted.

[0062] Alternatively, it is conceivable to design the handle 6 in such a way that it has special contact areas 20, for example, as shown in Fig. 8 b), so that a particularly large contact surface is created between the handle 6 and the connecting element 8 and / or between the handle 6 of the strut 3 and / or the front tube 2. It is also conceivable, as shown in Fig. 8 c), to provide special screw connections in order to fasten a handle 6 in a suitable manner in the desired position to a connecting element 8 that is glued, sewn, or welded onto the surface of a strut 3 and / or front tube 2. In this case, the fastening structure 9 has a threaded bolt onto which a nut can be screwed to lock the handle 6 relative to the connecting element 8.

[0063] Fig. 9 shows, in various views, possible designs of a modular handle 6 which, according to the invention, can be locked in different positions on a connecting element 8 of a wing 1. The handle 6 shown in Figs. 9 a) and 9b) has two side elements 16 and a gripping element 17 which can be grasped by a user during use of a generic wing 1. The handle 6 can be fastened with its fastening structure 9 in the desired position and orientation to a connecting element 8 provided according to the invention, wherein a clamping connection can be established between the fastening structure 9 of the handle 6 and the connecting structure 10 of a connecting element 8.In the case shown here, the clamping is produced by means of a screw connection, here by means of two screws or threaded bolts, each of which projects through the side elements 16, wherein by tightening the screw connection, the regions which can be moved relative to one another are clamped together in such a way that they firmly enclose the correspondingly shaped connection structure 10 of a connection element 8.

[0064] Furthermore, when assembling the handle, the tubular gripping element 17 according to Fig. 9 a) is inserted into receptacles 18 provided for this purpose in the side elements 16 and fastened there, wherein it is conceivable that different gripping elements 17 are used as required.

[0065] Thus, Fig. 9 b) shows a tube as gripping element 17, which is made of a rigid, at least almost inelastic material, such as a plastic or metal, while Fig. 9 c) shows a gripping element 17 made of a flexible and elastic material, for example of a soft plastic and / or a textile material. In the embodiment according to Fig. 9 c), the gripping element 17 is again received in opposite receptacles 18 of the side elements 16 of the handle 6. With regard to the design of the side elements 16, it is also conceivable for them to be made in one piece with a suitable fastening structure 9, as shown in Figs. 9 a) and 9 b), or to have two partial elements 14 that can be connected to one another to form a fastening structure 9, as shown in the schematic representation in Fig. 9 c).

[0066] Fig. 10 shows two different embodiments of a connecting element 8 fastened to a generic wing 1. What is essential about the embodiments shown in Fig. 10 is that in each case a connecting element 8 with a tubular or cylindrical connecting structure 10 is provided in the longitudinal direction on the underside of a strut 3. As shown in Fig. 10 a), the connecting element 8 can be fastened to the underside of the strut 3 by means of an adhesive or welded connection or a sewn seam, wherein suitable connecting elements 21 are provided for connecting to the strut 3 and / or to the front tube 2 and for receiving the connecting structure 10.In addition, it is even conceivable for connecting element 8, in particular its connecting structure 10, to be designed for connection to connecting elements 21, connecting elements 21, and / or fastening to strut 3 in such a way that a length of connecting structure 10, and thus of an area available for attaching handles 6, can be specifically changed. Thus, connecting element 8 and / or connecting structure 10 could have means for specifically changing a length.

[0067] Alternatively, as shown in Fig. 10 b), it is conceivable to fasten the connecting element 8 via suitable connecting elements 21 both to the strut 3, as here in the rear area, and to the front tube 2. Due to the fastening of the connecting element 8 to both the strut 3 and the front tube 2 selected in Fig. 10 b), further advantages arise with regard to the torsional rigidity of the wing 1, in particular the front tube 2.

[0068] Finally, Fig. 11 shows a wing 1 designed according to the invention, which has a strut 3 with a connecting element 8 fastened thereto. According to the exemplary embodiment shown, pairs of handles 6 are fastened to the connecting element 8, each of which has a fastening structure 9, so that the handles 6 can be fastened and locked in a specific position relative to the connecting element 8 as desired by the user. The fastening structure 9 and the connecting element 8 are designed in such a way that the fastening can be released in a comparatively simple manner, the handles 6 can be moved into the desired position and locked there again. It is therefore essential for the invention that at least one handle 6 can be easily fastened and locked in different positions and / or orientations on the connecting element 8 of a wing 1.The number of handles 6 used can be varied and the at least indirect fastening can be carried out optionally in the area of ​​the strut 3 and / or the front tube 2.

[0069] Fig. 12 shows, in a perspective view, another specific embodiment of a wing 1 designed according to the invention with a connecting element 8 arranged on the strut 3 for the required attachment of handles 6, which according to this embodiment have gripping elements 17 in the form of holding rods, which in the operating position are fastened on both sides in side elements 16. Again, it is important that the handles 6 with the gripping elements 17, here rod-shaped and held on both sides by the side elements 16, can be fixed in different positions relative to the connecting element 8, in order to enable a user to attach the handles 6 to the connecting element 8 and thus to the strut 3 in a way that is adapted to the respective weather conditions, in particular the prevailing wind strength, the type of desired movement and his body measurements.

[0070] The connecting element 8 runs in the longitudinal direction of the strut 3 and has a suitable connecting structure 10 with cylindrical rails 11, which serves to attach the handles 6 and which will be explained in more detail below. In this context, Fig. 13 shows a detailed view of part of the strut 3, which can be seen in full in Fig. 12 and to which the handles 6 are attached. The handles 6 have side elements 16, which each receive the ends of the rod-shaped gripping elements 17. In this case, the side elements 16, as will be explained below, can be transferred into an operating state in which they are not fixed to the connecting structure 10 of the connecting element or locked in this position, but can be moved into another position relative to the strut 3 and the connecting element 8. In addition, the section marked "A" in Fig. 13 is shown in Fig. 14.

[0071] Fig. 14 shows part of a handle 6, in particular part of its rod-shaped gripping element 17 and one of the side elements 16. According to the embodiment shown in Fig. 14, the side element 16 is designed in several parts. Two outer sub-elements 14a are fastened on both sides to a central sub-element 14b of the side element by means of a screw connection. To fix the side element and thus the handle 6 relative to the connecting element 8, the sub-elements 14a, b are connected to one another by means of a screw, which is inserted through suitable through-holes, and a nut. In order to be able to remove the side element 16 and the connected handle 6 from the connecting element and / or to fasten it in a different position on the connecting element, this screw connection can be loosened again in a comparatively simple manner.

[0072] In order to be able to fasten the side element 16 to the connecting element 8, the connecting element has a connecting structure 10 with two cylindrical or tubular rails 11 running parallel in the longitudinal direction of the connecting element, as shown in Fig. 5, top row, second illustration from the left, or in the top row, far right illustration. To fasten the side elements 16 of the handles 6, the central sub-elements 14b of the side elements 16 are positioned between the rails 11 of the connecting structure 10, while the outer sub-elements 14a are arranged on both sides of the central sub-element 14b on the opposite side of the rails 11 and are finally fastened to the central sub-element 14b by means of a screw connection.By the shown fastening of the outer sub-elements 14a to the central sub-element 14b, the sub-elements 14a, b are pressed against the rails 11, thus securely fixed and thus the handle 6 is fastened and locked in the desired position on the connecting element 8.

[0073] Finally, Fig. 15 shows a section of a strut 3 with a connecting element 8 fastened thereto, which has a connecting structure 10 with two parallel rails 11 running in the longitudinal direction of the connecting element 8, as well as side elements 16 of a handle 6 in different operating states in sectional views of the section B - B shown in Fig. 15 a). As mentioned, Fig. 15 a) shows the course of the section B - B through the side element 16, the connecting element 8 and the strut. Furthermore, Fig. 15 b) shows an operating state in which no side element 16 with its fastening structure 9 is fastened to the connecting structure 10 of the connecting element 8. The connecting structure 10 with the two rails 11 can thus be seen in its entirety.

[0074] Furthermore, Fig. 15 c) shows an operating state in which the central sub-element 14b of the side element 16 has been positioned between the rails 11 of the connecting structure 10 and the two outer sub-elements 14a have been positioned on opposite sides on the outer sides of the rails 11, without any fastening to the rails having already taken place. Finally, Fig. 15 d) shows an operating state in which the sub-elements 14a, b of the side element have been screwed together and thus fastened to the rails 11 of the connecting structure 10. The rails 11 are clamped between the sub-elements 14a, b, thus providing a clamping mechanism 15 for securely fastening a handle 6 in the desired position on a connecting element or a strut.

[0075] List of reference symbols

[0076] 1 wing

[0077] 2 front tubes

[0078] 3 Strut

[0079] 4 canvas

[0080] 5 Windward side

[0081] 6 Handle

[0082] 7 leech

[0083] 8 connecting element

[0084] 9 Mounting structure

[0085] 10 Connection structure

[0086] 11 Rail

[0087] 12 Cavity

[0088] 13 Basic element

[0089] 14 sub-elements

[0090] 15 clamping mechanism

[0091] 16 page element

[0092] 17 Gripping element

[0093] 18 recording

[0094] 19 jetty

[0095] 20 Investment area

[0096] 21 Connecting element

Claims

Patent claims 1. A wing (1) with an at least partially inflatable support structure for sports that use wind for locomotion on land or on water, comprising a sailcloth (4) that is stretched by an inflatable front tube (2) and an inflatable strut (3), and at least one handle (6) connected to the strut (3) for handling the support structure, wherein the front tube (2) is exposed to airflow on a windward side (5) during use and, in an at least partially inflated state, is bent at least partially in the direction of the strut (3), and the inflatable strut (3) extends, on the side opposite the windward side (5), from the front tube (2) backwards in the direction of a leech (7) of the sailcloth (4), characterized in that at least one connecting element (8) is arranged in the region of the strut (3) and / or the windward side (5) of the front tube (2), and the handle (6) has a fastening structure (9) that is designedto fasten and lock the handle (6) in at least two different orientations and / or positions on the connecting element (8).

2. Wing according to claim 1, characterized in that the connecting element (8) extends at least partially in the longitudinal direction of the strut (3) and / or the front tube (2).

3. Wing according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the connecting element (8) has a connecting structure (10) extending at least partially in the longitudinal direction of the strut (3) and / or the front tube (2) with a rail (11) for at least indirectly fastening the fastening structure (9) of the handle (6).

4. Wing according to claim 3, characterized in that the connecting structure (10) and / or the rail (11) is designed in the form of a tube with a round, oval or square cross-section, a cylinder with a round, oval, rectangular, I-shaped, L-shaped or square cross-section and / or a cuboid.

5. Wing according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that the rail (11) is at least partially surrounded by a flexible material. Wing according to one of claims 3 to 5, characterized in that the rail (11) comprises at least one at least virtually rigid, inelastic material. Wing according to claim 6, characterized in that the at least one, at least virtually inelastic material is selected from a group of materials that includes wood, plastic, polystyrene, cured foams, metal, and steel. Wing according to one of claims 5 to 7, characterized in that the flexible material that surrounds the rail (11) at least in regions comprises a textile material, a plastic, and / or a rubber. Wing according to claim 5 or one of claims 5 to 8, characterized in that the rail (11) is arranged in a cavity (12) enclosed by the flexible material, wherein the cavity (12) is closed at least in sections by an adhesive bond, a seam, and / or a weld.Wing according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the connecting element (8) has at least one plate-shaped base element (13) fastened to the strut (3) and / or to the front tube (2), said base element having a rectangular base surface curved according to a contour of a surface of the strut (3). Wing according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the connecting element (8) is fastened to the strut (3) via an adhesive connection, a welded connection, a seam connection and / or a pocket arranged in an outer skin of the strut (3). Wing according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the connecting element (8) is fastened to the front tube (2) via an adhesive connection, a welded connection, a seam and / or a pocket arranged in an outer skin of the front tube (2). Wing according to one of the preceding claims,. characterized in that the fastening structure (9) has a clamping mechanism (15). Wing according to claim 13, characterized in that the clamping mechanism (15) has at least one screw and / or tensioning element. Wing according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the fastening structure (9) has at least two partial elements (14) which can be fastened to one another so as to at least partially enclose the connecting element (8). Wing according to claim 15, characterized in that the at least two partial elements (14) can be fastened to one another via a screw connection and / or a tension lock. Wing according to claim 15 or 16, characterized in that a side element (16) has three partial elements (14a, 14b), wherein a fastening structure (9) suitable for receiving the connecting structure (10) is provided between a central partial element (14b) and two outer partial elements (14a) arranged on either side thereof.Wing according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the handle (6) is locked on the connecting element (8) in at least one first operating position of the fastening structure (9) and is movable relative to the connecting element (8) in at least one second operating position of the fastening structure. Wing according to claim 18, characterized in that the handle (6) is displaceable relative to the connecting element (8) in the second operating position of the fastening structure (9) when connected to the connecting element (8). Wing according to claim 18 or 19, characterized in that a manually operable clamping mechanism (15) is provided, which is clamped in the first operating position and released in the second operating position. Wing according to claim 20, characterized in that the handle (6) has at least one clamping element and an operating element operatively connected to the clamping element, wherein actuation of the operating element releases the clamping mechanism (15) and moves the handle (6) into the second operating position. Wing according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the handle (6) is at least partially made of a flexible material which, at least in regions, comprises a textile material, a plastic, and / or a rubber. Wing according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the handle (6) is at least partially made of an at least almost rigid material which comprises a plastic, a wood, a metal, and / or a steel.A wing according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the front tube (2), the strut (3), the sailcloth (4), the handle (6), the connecting element (8) and / or the connecting structure (10) have, at least in some regions, fibers and / or particles made of glass and / or carbon for reinforcement. Handle (6) for use with a wing (1) according to at least one of the preceding claims. Handle according to claim 25, characterized in that at least two side elements (16) are provided with at least part of the fastening structure (9) and with receptacles (18) for connection to a gripping element (17).

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