Detachable aquatic propulsion device

Abstract

The invention relates to an aquatic propulsion device configured to be worn on at least one leg of a swimmer and comprising at least a first portion configured to be rigidly attached to the leg of a user, the first portion comprising a first bearing part having a first inner face shaped so as to bear against the swimmer's tibia, and a first outer face opposite the first inner face, the device further comprising a second portion comprising a blade for propelling the swimmer, a second bearing part carrying the blade and having a part that complements the first bearing part such that the device has an attached configuration and a detached configuration.

Description

[0001] "Detachable aquatic propulsion device"

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The present invention relates to the field of finning devices. It finds particularly advantageous application in the field of scuba diving.

[0004] STATE OF THE ART

[0005] In the aquatic world, there are several devices that can assist a swimmer in their movements. In particular, fins make swimming easier for divers by increasing the surface area they can push on the water. However, conventional fin devices have limitations because they place particular stress on swimmers' ankles, which can lead to fatigue injuries or even sprains and strains.

[0006] There are solutions to overcome this problem, such as the one described in document FR3069443A1, which describes in particular a fin blade connected to the tibia of a diver, so that the thrust force is generated by the diver directly through the leg muscles and the tension is no longer concentrated at the ankles.

[0007] It turns out that in practice this solution only provides limited propulsion. Furthermore, this solution is not very convenient to use because, for example, the fin blade cannot be easily attached / detached underwater.

[0008] An object of the present invention is therefore to provide a reliable solution to overcome this problem of excessive ankle stress, allowing improved propulsion and providing easy underwater handling. Other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent upon examination of the following description and accompanying drawings. It is understood that other advantages may be incorporated.

[0009] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0010] To achieve this objective, according to one embodiment, an aquatic propulsion device is provided configured to be worn on at least one leg of a swimmer and comprising: at least a first portion configured to be securely attached to the leg of a user, the first portion comprising: a first support piece having a first internal face shaped so as to bear on the swimmer's tibia and a first external face opposite the first internal face.

[0011] The device also comprises a second portion comprising: a blade for propelling the swimmer, a second support piece carrying the blade and having a complementary part of the first support piece so that the device has: an attached configuration in which the second support piece cooperates with the first support piece to secure, preferably by removing all degrees of freedom, in a removable manner the second support piece on the first external face of the first support piece in order to transmit a finning force from the first portion to the blade of the second portion, a detached configuration in which the cooperation of the second support piece with the first support piece is removed so that the second portion is entirely detached from the first portion.

[0012] This allows the swimmer a walking or running configuration in which the blade is detached and can be carried by hand. It also allows the user to don or doff the second portion underwater and potentially pass it to another diver, underwater or out of the water.

[0013] Indeed, the device is configured to allow easy joining of the first portion with the second portion. The coupling of the first portion and the second portion is carried out by means of the first support piece and the second support piece, in contact with each other, they allow the transmission of force from the user's tibia to the wing.

[0014] Without the present invention, an easy alternation between a walking configuration and a swimming configuration would not be possible for a user who would necessarily have to remove his entire device.

[0015] The solutions of the prior art are unsatisfactory for several reasons, notably because the sails are complex to remove, especially underwater, and consequently they are in practice put on from a boat or from the shore. Thus, the present solution not only offers a walking configuration with the sail detached but also allows easy handling of the sail in and out of the water.

[0016] With this solution, it is now possible to overcome the problem of excessive stress on the ankles while allowing the use of a removable canopy.

[0017] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0018] The aims, objects, as well as the characteristics and advantages of the invention will emerge more clearly from the detailed description of an embodiment thereof which is illustrated by the following accompanying drawings in which:

[0019] Figure 1 shows a swimmer equipped on each leg with an example of a propulsion device according to the present invention in a swimming configuration.

[0020] Figure 2 shows an example of a propulsion device according to the present invention.

[0021] Figures 3A-3D depict the propulsion device illustrated in Figure 2, comprising a first portion and a second portion, in various positions when the first and second portions are brought into cooperation.

[0022] Figure 4 shows a swimmer equipped with an exemplary propulsion device according to the present invention in a walking configuration.

[0023] Figure 5 represents a particular example of a monofin device according to the invention.

[0024] The drawings are given by way of example and are not limiting of the invention. They constitute schematic representations of principle intended to facilitate the understanding of the invention and are not necessarily to the scale of practical applications.

[0025] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] Before commencing a detailed review of embodiments of the invention, optional features which may optionally be used in combination or alternatively are set out below:

[0027] According to one example, the device is configured so that in the attached configuration the second portion is secured to the first portion solely by said cooperation between the second support piece and the first support piece.

[0028] According to one example, the first portion comprises a first attachment member and the second portion comprises a second attachment member complementary to the first attachment member, the actuation of one of the first and second attachment members allowing the alternating passage between: a locked configuration in which the first and second attachment members cooperate to lock the device in the attached configuration, and an unlocked configuration in which the first and second attachment members allow the device to pass from the attached configuration to the detached configuration. Thus, according to this example, the two members are configured so as to cooperate with each other to: lock the second support piece onto the first support piece in the attached configuration, unlock the second support piece onto the first support piece in the detached configuration.

[0029] According to one example, the first and second attachment members cooperate by clipping and / or by means of a latch mechanism.

[0030] Preferably, it is not a screw-nut connection.

[0031] In one example, the device is configured such that actuation of one of the first and second attachment members is effected by the swimmer manipulating that member to transition from the attached configuration to the detached configuration.

[0032] In one example, actuation of one of the first and second attachment members is caused, preferably solely, by engaging the second portion with the first portion to transition from the detached configuration to the attached configuration.

[0033] Thus, the swimmer does not need to manipulate the said attachment member to attach the second portion to the first portion. He can therefore quickly switch to swimming configuration, even in delicate conditions, for example when he is in the water.

[0034] According to one example, the first portion comprises a first pivot member, secured to the first support piece and the second portion comprises a second pivot member, the two pivot members being configured to cooperate, preferably by interlocking, so as to pass from the detached configuration to the attached configuration by tilting the second support piece relative to the first support piece.

[0035] Thus, the first pivot member and the second pivot member guide the relative movement of the second support piece relative to the first support piece during the alternating transition from the detached configuration to the attached configuration. This makes handling by the user easier, which is particularly appreciable in difficult situations, for example when the swimmer is in the water, underwater and / or has to act quickly.

[0036] According to one example, the first pivot member and the second pivot member are configured to guide the relative movement of the second bearing piece relative to the first bearing piece during the alternating transition from the detached configuration to the attached configuration, according to a rotation about a first axis substantially perpendicular to a principal direction of extension of the tibia.

[0037] According to one example, the device is configured such that the amplitude of the tilting rotation of the second portion relative to the first portion is limited by the contact between the second inner face and the first outer face.

[0038] Preferably, the main direction extends parallel to the direction defined by the user's malleoli.

[0039] Thus, the first portion and the second portion are easily assembled together. In fact, this solution allows for improved propulsion of the swimmer. As well as easier assembly / disassembly of the blade underwater.

[0040] The solution allows the swimmer's ankles to remain free while allowing for improved propulsion. Preferably, the swimmer's ankles are thus guided in rotation in the main direction and laterally stopped by the blade supports.

[0041] According to one example, the two members are configured so as to cooperate at the end of the tilting movement, when there is contact between a second internal face of the second portion with the first external face of the first portion.

[0042] According to one example, the actuation of one of the two fastening members is carried out manually without tools. Preferably, the actuation of one of the two members is carried out with one hand. The actuation of one of the two members can be carried out by a pulling action of a latch, a tongue or a buckle.

[0043] According to one example, in the attached configuration, the wing is positioned at a distance of at least 10 cm from the first support piece so as to provide in the second portion an opening allowing the user's foot to pass through said space.

[0044] According to one example, in the attached configuration, the canopy extends substantially, in line with the direction of the user's shin.

[0045] Advantageously, in the attached configuration, the device is configured such that the user's foot is located between the first portion and the second portion.

[0046] According to one example, the second portion comprises at least one wing support connecting the second support piece to the wing, the wing support being capable of elastically deforming during use, under the effect of a finning force applied by the user.

[0047] The wing support is advantageously shaped so as not to deform under the effect of its own weight.

[0048] The wing support being shaped so that, when it is submerged, it deforms under the effect of a finning force applied by the user and then this finning force is removed, then returns to its rest position.

[0049] The wing support thus restores to the device part of the force which caused its deformation. This improves the performance of the device.

[0050] According to one example, the device comprises a third portion comprising an intermediate member and equipment configured so as to at least partially accommodate the user's foot, the intermediate member being articulated in rotation with the first portion along a first axis, and the equipment being articulated in rotation with the intermediate member along an intermediate axis parallel to and not coincident with the first axis.

[0051] Preferably, the second intermediate axis is parallel to the first axis. Thus, when the device is worn by a user, the first axis is substantially in the direction defined by the malleoli of the tibia and fibula of said swimmer. Preferably, in projection along an anteroposterior axis of the user.

[0052] Preferably, the rotation of the third portion with the first portion may be carried out around an additional axis distinct from the first axis, but preferably substantially parallel to the first axis. The additional axis may be substantially parallel to the first axis and distant from it. Preferably, the additional axis and the first axis will be combined so as to be in the axis of the swimmer's malleoli in a configuration in which the device is worn.

[0053] According to one example, the second portion is configured so as to provide a space between the second support surface and the wing allowing, in the attached configuration, the free movement of the third portion through said space and relative to the second portion.

[0054] According to one example, the equipment is an accessory, of the slipper type, comprising a closed profile configured to surround the user's foot, preferably at least at the level of the arch of the foot.

[0055] According to one example, the device has an additional wing secured to the equipment and configured to be positioned under the user's foot, the additional wing having a width dimension, along the first axis, substantially the same dimension as the width of the equipment.

[0056] This increases the swimmer's plantar surface area and thus further increases the propulsive effort when the water is pushed back with the sole of the foot.

[0057] Preferably, the additional blade has a length dimension, perpendicular to the width dimension, of less than 30 cm. The reduced dimension of the second blade facilitates the swimmer's walking. The reduced dimensioning of the second blade also allows the third portion to pass through said opening when the device is in the attached configuration.

[0058] Preferably, the second sail is glued under the equipment.

[0059] According to one example, the wing is made of a first material having a Young's modulus E1 and the wing support is made of a second material having a Young's modulus E2, the first material and the second material being such that E1 <E2.

[0060] Preferably the first material has less stiffness than the second material.

[0061] According to one example, the second portion comprises at least two wing supports, preferably distributed symmetrically on each side of the wing and configured so as to support said wing.

[0062] Preferably, each wing support has: a proximal end defining with the first portion a pivot connection to form said rotational articulation of the second portion relative to the first portion along a first axis and a distal end.

[0063] Said opening extending from the proximal ends towards the distal ends. Preferably, the wing is supported by a distal portion of the second portion, the distal portion extending from the distal ends.

[0064] The blade support may be in the form of a rod or a flat profile. According to one example, the first support piece is curved and is configured to come into contact with the front of the swimmer's leg and the first portion comprises a fastening system, preferably adjustable, configured to allow the first support piece to be held in position against the front of the swimmer's leg. Preferably against the swimmer's shin.

[0065] According to a particular embodiment, the support piece is carried by a rigid part of the first portion. Advantageously, the support piece has a concave surface.

[0066] According to one example, the first support piece and the second support piece comprise complementary surfaces of curved shapes.

[0067] According to one example, at least one of the wing support and the wing is made of a composite material.

[0068] Preferably the main direction of extension of the device extends, in the attached configuration, in line with the swimmer's tibia.

[0069] According to one example, the second support piece has a curved surface so as to fit together with the first support piece.

[0070] According to one example, the device comprises two distinct first portions configured respectively to be attached to each of the user's legs.

[0071] According to one example, the first two portions respectively comprise an attachment member each configured to cooperate with a complementary attachment member carried by a single second portion configured to cooperate simultaneously with the first two portions, the second portion thus making it possible to secure the first two portions in the attached configuration.

[0072] Thus, the device forms a monofin.

[0073] The term "finning movement" refers to the movement required to activate the device; it can be understood as a succession of oscillations of the swimmer's legs.

[0074] In this patent application, the term mobile corresponds to a rotational movement or a translational movement or to a combination of movements, for example the combination of a rotation and a translation.

[0075] In this patent application, when two parts are indicated as distinct, this means that these parts are separate. They are: positioned at a distance from each other, and / or movable relative to each other and / or integral with each other by being fixed by added elements, this fixing being removable or not.

[0076] A single piece cannot therefore be made up of two separate pieces.

[0077] In this patent application, the term "integral" used to qualify the connection between two parts means that the two parts are linked / fixed relative to each other, according to all degrees of freedom, unless explicitly specified differently. For example, if it is indicated that two parts are integral in translation in an X direction, this means that the parts can be movable relative to each other except in the X direction. In other words, if one part is moved in the X direction, the other part performs the same movement. In this patent application, an elastic means can for example be a spring, such as a coil spring, elastic washers such as Belleville washers, an elastomer, a rubber.

[0078] In the following detailed description, use may be made of terms such as "horizontal", "vertical", "longitudinal", "transverse", "upper", "lower", "top", "bottom", "front", "back", "inside", "outside". These terms must be interpreted relatively in relation to the position of the entire device worn by the swimmer and in a configuration in which the swimmer is standing on land or underwater.

[0079] In the context of the present invention, "completely detached" will be understood for two parts "A" and "B" as the fact that there is no mechanical link between part "A" and part "B"

[0080] For example, the notion of "horizontal" can also correspond to a direction parallel to the level of the water or the ground.

[0081] The present invention relates to an aquatic propulsion device configured to be worn by a swimmer. The use of this type of device is particularly suitable for the practice of scuba diving and prolonged swimming efforts.

[0082] The present invention applies to a device comprising two independent fins, as illustrated in figures 1 to 4. It also applies to a monofin, that is to say a fin comprising a blade moved simultaneously by the swimmer's two legs, as illustrated in figure 5. A first embodiment will now be described with reference to figures 1 to 4. All of the characteristics, technical effects and advantages mentioned for this embodiment are perfectly transposable and combinable to a monofin type device.

[0083] As illustrated in Figure 1 and according to one example, when the swimmer 2 is in a swimming configuration, he is equipped simultaneously with two propulsion devices 1 attached respectively to his two legs. According to the monofin embodiment, the swimmer 2 is equipped with a single aquatic propulsion device 1, preferably secured to both legs 21 at the same time.

[0084] Advantageously, the device 1 is configured so as to remain in position against the leg 21 of the swimmer 2, for example at the level of the tibia, leaving the ankle and the foot free of any movement.

[0085] The device 1 is thus configured to be worn on the leg 21 and preferably to remain in position against the tibia. Preferably, the device 1 is capable of being worn by the lower part of the leg 21, namely in an area between the ankle and the knee.

[0086] As illustrated in Figure 2 and according to one example, the device 1 comprises a first portion 11 and a second portion 12. The first portion 11 is configured to allow the device 1 to be held in position on the leg 21. The second portion 12 is configured so as to attach and / or alternatively detach relative to the first portion 11 along the first axis X1.

[0087] FIRST PORTION As illustrated in Figure 3A and according to a particular embodiment, the first portion 11 comprises a support piece 114. Advantageously, the support piece 114 is carried by a rigid part of the first portion 11. The support piece 114 comprises a first internal face 114a, preferably concave, configured to at least partially envelop a portion of the leg 21 of the swimmer 2.

[0088] The first portion 11 may be a removable part, configured to be securely attached to the leg 20 of the swimmer 2 and alternatively detached therefrom. The support part 114 has a first internal face 114a shaped so as to bear against the tibia of the swimmer 2 and a first external face 114b opposite the first internal face 114a. The first internal face 114a may comprise a concave portion and / or the first external face 114b may comprise a convex portion.

[0089] SECOND SERVING

[0090] The second portion 12 preferably comprises a wing 121, a wing support 122, and the second support piece 124. The wing support 122 extends between the wing 121 and the second support piece 124 so as to mechanically transmit the forces exerted on the second support piece 124 to the wing 21. The wing 121 being secured to the wing support 122. The second support piece 124 being secured to the wing support 122 and being configured to allow the attachment of the second portion 12 to the first portion 11 so as to allow the passage of the device from a detached configuration to an attached configuration in which the second portion extends in the preferred direction of extension of the tibia Y21.

[0091] Preferably, when the device 1 is worn by the swimmer 2, the first axis X1 is substantially directed in the direction defined by the malleoli of the tibia and fibula of said swimmer 2.

[0092] The wing 121 is preferably located opposite the arch of the foot. The wing 121 is advantageously located in a portion of space delimited by a plane perpendicular to the preferred direction of extension of the tibia Y21 and passing through the arch of the foot.

[0093] The second support piece 124 comprises a second internal face 124a opposite a second external face 124b. The second internal face 124a is preferably shaped to formally couple with the first external face 114b. The second internal face 124a may have a concave portion capable of being positioned on a convex portion of the first external face 114b.

[0094] WING SUPPORT

[0095] As illustrated in Figure 3A and according to one example, each wing support 122 has: a proximal end 122a defining with the first portion 11 an attachment interface to allow the removability of the second portion 12 relative to the first portion 11, a distal end 122b to which the wing 121 is fixed. According to a particular embodiment, the device is configured so that the wing 121 and the wing support 122 can be attached together and / or detached, for example at the distal end 122b so as to allow optimized disassembly of the device for space-saving purposes.

[0096] The wing support 122 can be in the form of two profiled rods with rectangular section.

[0097] Advantageously, the wing support(s) 122 are in contact with the bottom of the support element 114 so as to create a reaction point and thus allow the movement of the leg 21 against the support element 114, thus causing an angular displacement of the wing 121. Preferably, at least one wing support 122 is configured to ensure that the second portion 12 is held in position on the first portion 11.

[0098] Preferably, the wing support(s) 122 are parts having a plane of symmetry. Advantageously, the wing support(s) comprise at least two rods, distributed parallel around the wing 121.

[0099] SPACE FOR FOOT PASSAGE

[0100] The device 1 is configured so that the blade 121 is positioned at a passage distance of at least 10 cm from the first axis X1 so as to provide in the second portion 12 a space 122c allowing the swimmer's foot 2 to pass through said space 122c when the device 1 is in the attached configuration.

[0101] Preferably, the passage distance is at least 15 cm, preferably at least 20 cm, advantageously between 20 and 25 cm.

[0102] Said space 122c extending from the proximal ends 122a towards the distal ends 122b. Preferably, the wing 121 is supported by a distal part of the second portion 12, the distal part extending from the distal ends 122b.

[0103] According to a particular embodiment, the wing 121 extends along the wing support 122.

[0104] The device 1 is configured to pass from: an attached configuration in which the blade 121 is configured to extend substantially, in line with the preferred direction of extension of the tibia Y21 of the leg 21 of the swimmer 2. to a detached configuration, as illustrated in FIG. 4, in which the blade 121 is removed and can be easily and manually worn by the swimmer 2.

[0105] The transition from the detached configuration to the attached configuration can be carried out by clipping the second portion 12 with the first portion 11.

[0106] In the attached configuration, the device 1 is configured so that the foot of the swimmer 2 is located between the second support piece 124 and the blade 121. Preferably, in the attached configuration, the main direction of secondary extension Y12 of the device 1 extends substantially in the extension of the tibia of the swimmer 2. The device 1 is in an attached configuration when the first portion 11 extends in the main direction Y11 substantially parallel to a preferred direction Y21 of extension of the tibia and the blade 121 extends parallel to the main direction Y11.

[0107] Preferably, the device is configured so that the second portion 12 is removable relative to the first portion 11.

[0108] TIPPING

[0109] As illustrated in Figures 3B and 3C and according to one example, the first portion 11 and the second portion 12 are able to pivot relative to each other along the main axis X1.

[0110] According to one example, the first portion 11 comprises a first pivot member 111 and the other of the first portion 11 and the second portion 12 comprises a second pivot member 120 complementary and capable of cooperating by rotation with the first pivot member 111 along the first axis X1.

[0111] The first pivot member 111 may be a rod comprising a head and a cylindrical body. The second pivot member 120 may be a notch capable of cooperating by rotation with the first pivot member 111 along the first axis X1.

[0112] ATTACHMENT ORGANS

[0113] According to a particular embodiment, the first portion 11 comprises a first attachment member 115 and the second portion 12 comprises a second attachment member 125. The first attachment member 115 and the second attachment member 125 being configured so as to hold the device 1 in position in the attached configuration.

[0114] According to a particular embodiment, the first attachment member 115 is located at a proximal end of the first support piece 114. The second attachment member 125 may be located at a proximal end of the second support piece 124.

[0115] The securing cooperation between the first attachment member 115 and the second attachment member 125 is for example carried out by clipping. At least one of the attachment members 115, 125 may comprise an elastic return element, such as a spring. It may also be a cooperation between a ring and a hook.

[0116] Preferably, it will be a clipping system in which at least one of the first attachment member 115 and the second attachment member 125 comprises a female portion and the other of the first attachment member 115 and the second attachment member 125 comprises a male portion configured to cooperate by fitting with the female portion.

[0117] Advantageously, the male portion is cylindrical, preferably spring-mounted, preferably integral with the second portion 12 and / or capable of extending in an attached configuration along the main direction of extension Y21. The male portion may be located on the second external face 124b.

[0118] SYMMETRICAL BICONVEX PROFILE WING

[0119] According to a particular embodiment, the blade 121 has a profile shape whose section is symmetrical biconvex. This allows in particular the least turbulent swimming possible. The present invention combined with a blade with a symmetrical biconvex section makes it possible to recover a powerful rotational movement around the axis of the knees of the swimmer 2 which makes it possible to develop an angular speed of the blade 121, much greater than with a conventional fin. This angular speed is advantageously accentuated and converted into thrust by the use of a blade with a symmetrical biconvex profile. A profile with a symmetrical biconvex section combined with the circular movement preferably generates a greater flow speed on the side exposed to the direction of rotation called the extrados and less significant on the opposite side called the intrados. This shift in flow speed will create range and amplify the angular speed of the blade 121.Thus, thanks to the device of the present invention, it is possible to amplify the performance of propulsion and swimming techniques.

[0120] THIRD PORTION

[0121] According to a particular embodiment, the propulsion device 1 comprises a third portion 13. The third portion 13 can be articulated in rotation relative to the first portion 11 along an articulation axis such as the first axis X1. The third portion 13 can comprise equipment 13a configured to at least partially accommodate the foot of the swimmer 2.

[0122] The third portion 13 can be articulated in rotation relative to the first portion 11 along an articulation axis different from the first axis X1, preferably extending in a direction parallel to the first axis X1. The articulation axis can be at least 1 cm away from the first axis X1. The articulation axis can be in a configuration in which the device is worn according to the swimmer's malleoli.

[0123] The first axis X1 advantageously extending along the malleoli of the swimmer 2. Preferably, the additional blade 131 has a length dimension, perpendicular to the width dimension, and extends under the equipment 13a. The reduced dimension of the additional blade 131 facilitates the walking of the swimmer 2 when the second portion 12 is detached. This makes it possible to increase the plantar surface of the swimmer 2 and thus to further increase the propulsion effort when the water is pushed back with the sole of the foot.

[0124] Preferably, the additional wing 131 is configured to be fixed by gluing under the equipment 13. Advantageously, the reduced dimensioning of the additional wing 131 also allows the equipment 13 to pass through said space 122c when the device 1 is in the attached configuration.

[0125] INTERMEDIARY BODY

[0126] According to one example, the third portion 13 comprises an intermediate member 113 and equipment. The equipment being configured so as to at least partially envelop the foot of the swimmer 2 and the intermediate member 113 being articulated in rotation with the first portion 11 along an articulation axis, which may be the first axis X1, preferably the articulation axis is parallel to the first axis X1, and the equipment being articulated in rotation with the intermediate member 113 along a second intermediate axis X113, preferably parallel to the articulation axis.

[0127] The intermediate member 113 may take the form of a connecting rod having an articulation in rotation around the first axis X1 and an articulation in rotation around the second intermediate axis X1 13. Advantageously, the equipment 13 is an accessory, of the shoe type, comprising a closed loop profile configured to surround the foot of the swimmer 2, preferably at least at the level of the arch of the foot.

[0128] THE SAIL CONNECTION

[0129] According to a particular embodiment, the device comprises a removable connection mechanism between the blade 121 and the additional blade 131. Indeed, this characteristic makes it possible to distribute the forces more finely between the tibia 21 and the foot of the swimmer 2.

[0130] Preferably, the connection mechanism is removable. The connection mechanism may comprise a connecting member such as a strap, a cord or an elastic band. The connection may be made in a lower part of the equipment, in particular in the part of the equipment configured to be worn as close as possible to the foot of the swimmer 2. Preferably as close as possible to the front of the swimmer's foot in order to establish a connection between the tip of the swimmer's foot and the blade 121. Thus, the connection mechanism allows an optimized distribution of forces on the front part of the body of the swimmer 2 as well as an adapted management of the deformation of the second blade during the rotational movements of the device 1.

[0131] According to a preferred embodiment, the device is configured to adapt to very different swimmer morphologies. Offering a distribution of swimming efforts between the foot and the lower part of the leg. These elements therefore characterize the invention in its use in "swimming" mode, but the concept also allows innovations for use out of the water or for changing environments.

[0132] MATERIALS AND RESISTANCE

[0133] According to one example, the wing supports 122 are shaped so as not to deform under the effect of their own weight.

[0134] According to one example, the wing supports 122 are shaped so that, when they are submerged and are deformed under the effect of a finning force applied by the swimmer 2 and then this finning force is removed, they can return to their rest position.

[0135] The wing supports 122 thus restore to the device part of the force which caused their deformation. This makes it possible to improve the performance of the device.

[0136] According to one example, the wing 121 is made of a first material having a Young's modulus E1 and the wing support 122 is made of a second material having a Young's modulus E2, the materials being such that E1 <E2.

[0137] According to a particular embodiment, the wing 121 has a lower stiffness than the wing supports 122 so that the wing is stiffened by the wing supports 122.

[0138] MONOFIN DEVICE

[0139] As illustrated in Figure 5 and according to one example, the device is configured to allow the attachment of a single second portion 12 simultaneously with two first portions 11 capable of being worn by the swimmer 2. In other words, according to this embodiment, the device 1 comprises two distinct first portions 11, 1T configured respectively to be attached to each of the legs of the swimmer 2. Preferably, the two first portions 11, 11' each comprise an attachment member 115, 115' configured to cooperate respectively with two complementary attachment members 125, 125' carried by the second portion 12, so as to alternately allow the passage of the device 1 between the detached configuration and the attached configuration.

[0140] In this particular embodiment, the second support piece 124 carrying the wing 121 may have two parts respectively complementary to the first support pieces 114, 114 of the two first portions 11, 11' so that the device has: an attached configuration in which the second support piece 124 cooperates simultaneously with two first support pieces 114 of two separate first portions 11, 11' so as to secure, preferably by removing all degrees of freedom, in a removable manner, the second support piece 124 on the first external faces 114b of the first support pieces 114 in order to transmit a finning force from the first portion 11 to the single wing 121 of the second portion 12,a detached configuration in which the cooperation of the second support piece 124 with the first support pieces 114 is eliminated so that the second portion is entirely detached from the two first portions 11, 11'.,

[0141] Preferably, the second portion 12 comprises at least one member from among the first pivot member 111 and the second pivot member 120, preferably exactly two members from among the first pivot member 111 and the second pivot member 120.

[0142] In this embodiment, the wing support 122 in attached configuration extends between the legs of the swimmer 2, in the center of the first two portions 11, 11'. The wing support 122 may comprise in this case a single profile.

[0143] According to one embodiment, the second portion 12 is capable of cooperating by tilting simultaneously with at least two other members among the first pivot member 111 and the second pivot member 120 carried respectively by the two first portions 11, 11'. Preferably, in a worn configuration of the monofin device, the pivot members 111, 120 are located between the legs of the swimmer 2. The second portion 12 may comprise a blade support 122 between the legs of the swimmer so that the two first portions are distributed on either side of the blade support 122.

[0144] OTHER METHODS OF IMPLEMENTATION

[0145] According to a particular embodiment, the device 1 comprises sensors configured to activate the triggering of an actuator in order to generate a movement of the blades 121 according to the position of the leg(s) of the swimmer 2 or according to the oscillatory movement of the swimmer 2.

[0146] The first portion 11 advantageously comprises an attachment system 23 allowing the propulsion device 1 to be secured to the leg 21 of the swimmer 2. The attachment system 23 may be at least one strap, preferably elastic.

[0147] The invention is not limited to the embodiments previously described and extends to all embodiments covered by the claims. REFERENCES

[0148] 1 aquatic propulsion device

[0149] 11 first portion

[0150] 111 first pivot organ

[0151] 114 first support piece

[0152] 114a first internal face

[0153] 114b first external face

[0154] 115 first attachment organ

[0155] 11' first additional portion

[0156] 12 second portion

[0157] 12' fin support

[0158] 120 second pivot organ

[0159] 121 sails

[0160] 122 wing support

[0161] 122a proximal end

[0162] 122b distal end

[0163] 122c space

[0164] 124 second support piece

[0165] 124a second internal face

[0166] 124b second external face

[0167] 125 second attachment organ

[0168] 13 third portion

[0169] 13a equipment

[0170] 2 swimmers

[0171] 21 leg

[0172] 22 feet

[0173] 23 attachment system

[0174] Y11 main direction

[0175] Y21 preferred direction of extension of the tibia,

[0176] X1 first axis

[0177] X113 intermediate axis

Claims

DEMANDS 1. Aquatic propulsion device (1) configured to be worn on at least one leg (21) of a swimmer (2) and comprising: at least a first portion (11) configured to be securely attached to the leg (21) of a user (2), the first portion (11) comprising: a first support piece (114) having a first inner face (114a) shaped to bear against the tibia of the swimmer (2) and a first outer face (114b) opposite the first inner face (114a), characterized in that the device (1) also comprises a second portion (12) comprising: o a wing (121) for the propulsion of the swimmer, o a second support piece (124) carrying the wing (121) and having a complementary part of the first support piece (114) such that the device (1) has: ■ an attached configuration in which the second support piece (124) cooperates with the first support piece (114) to removably secure the second support piece (124) to the first external face (114b) of the first support piece (114) in order to transmit a finning force from the first portion (11) to the wing (121) of the second portion (12), ■ a detached configuration in which the cooperation of the second support piece (124) with the first support piece (114) is eliminated so that the second portion (12) is completely detached from the first portion (11).

2. Device (1) according to the preceding claim configured so that in attached configuration the second portion (12) is secured to the first portion (11) solely by said cooperation between the second support piece (124) and the first support piece (114).

3. Device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the first portion (11) comprises a first attachment member (115) and the second portion (12) comprises a second attachment member (125) complementary to the first attachment member (115), the actuation of one of the first and second attachment members (115, 125) allowing the alternative passage between: o a locked configuration in which the first and second attachment members (115, 125) cooperate to lock the device (1) in the attached configuration, and o an unlocked configuration in which the first and second attachment members (115, 125) allow the device (1) to pass from the attached configuration to the detached configuration.

4. Device (1) according to the preceding claim in which the first and second attachment members (115, 125) cooperate by clipping and / or by means of a latch mechanism.

5. Device (1) according to any one of the two preceding claims is configured such that the actuation of one of the first and second attachment members (115, 125) is effected by a manipulation of this member by the swimmer to pass from the attached configuration to the detached configuration.

6. Device (1) according to any one of the three preceding claims wherein the actuation of one of the first and second attachment members (115, 125) is caused, preferably only, by the cooperation of the second portion (12) on the first portion (11) to pass from the detached configuration to the attached configuration.

7. Device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims in which the first portion (11) comprises a first pivot member (111), integral with the first support piece (114) and the second portion (12) comprises a second pivot member (120), the two pivot members (111, 120) being configured to cooperate, preferably by interlocking, so as to pass from the detached configuration to the attached configuration by tilting the second support piece (124) relative to the first support piece (114).

8. Device (1) according to the preceding claim in which the first pivot member (111) and the second pivot member (120) are configured to guide the relative movement of the second support piece (124) relative to the first support piece (114) during the alternating passage from the detached configuration to the attached configuration, according to a rotation about a first axis (X1) substantially perpendicular to a principal extension direction of the tibia Y21.

9. Device (1) according to any one of the two preceding claims, configured so that the amplitude of the rotation by tilting of the second portion (12) relative to the first portion (11) is limited by the contact between the second inner face (124a) and the first outer face (114b).

10. Device (1) according to any one of the three preceding claims wherein the two members (115, 125) are configured so as to cooperate at the end of the tilting movement, when there is contact between a second inner face (124a) of the second portion (124) with the first outer face (114b) of the first portion (114).

11. Device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims in combination with claim 3 wherein the actuation of one of the two attachment members (1 15, 125) is carried out manually without a tool.

12. Device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims in combination with claim 2, wherein, in the attached configuration, the wing (121) is positioned at a distance of at least 10 cm from the first support piece (114) so as to provide in the second portion (12) an opening (122c) allowing the foot (22) of the user (2) to pass through said space (122c). Device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, in the attached configuration, the fin (121) extends substantially in line with the direction of the user's (2) shin. Device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second portion (12) comprises at least one fin support (122) connecting the second support piece (124) to the fin (121), the fin support (122) being capable of elastically deforming during use under the effect of a finning force applied by the user (2).A device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims comprising a third portion (13) including an intermediate member (113) and equipment (13a) configured to accommodate at least partially the foot (22) of the user (2), the intermediate member (113) being rotationally articulated with the first portion (11) about a first axis (X1), and the equipment (13a) being rotationally articulated with the intermediate member (113) about an intermediate axis (X113) parallel to and not coinciding with the first axis (X1). A device (1) according to the preceding claim wherein the second portion (12) is configured to provide a space (122c) between the second support surface (124) and the wing (121) allowing, in the attached configuration, free movement of the third portion (13) through said space (122c) and relative to the second portion (12).Device (1) according to any one of the three preceding claims, comprising an additional wing (131) integral with the equipment (13a) and configured to be positioned under the user's foot (2), the additional wing (131) having a width dimension, along the first axis (X1), substantially the same dimension as the width of the equipment (13a). Device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second support piece (124) has a curved surface so as to fit into the first support piece (114). Device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising: two distinct first portions (11, 11') configured respectively to be attached to each of the user's legs (2).Device (1) according to the preceding claim in which the first two portions (11, 11') respectively comprise an attachment member (115, 115') configured to cooperate each with a complementary attachment member (125, 125') carried by a single second portion (12) configured to cooperate simultaneously with the first two portions (11, 11'), the second portion (12) thus enabling the first two portions (11, 11') to be joined together in the attached configuration.

Images