Multifunctional system for a pair of roller skis

Abstract

------ Multifunctional system for a pair of roller skis The invention relates to a multifunctional system (M) for a pair of roller skis (S1, S2), comprising a first connecting part (1) and a second connecting part (2), and a coupler (3) configured to connect in a releasable manner the first roller ski (S1) to the second roller ski (S2) along an axis parallel to the axes of rotation of the wheels (R) of the roller skis (S1, S2), to form a stable assembly and to impose a fixed distance between the first connecting part (1) and the second connecting part (2), the coupler (3) comprising a first end of spacer (311), a second end of spacer (312) and a spacer body (313). At least one of the first spacer end (311) and the second spacer end (312) is configured to engage in a releasable manner with the corresponding connecting portion (1, 2). Figure to be published: Figure 1

Description

Title of the invention: Multifunctional system for a pair of roller skis

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of roller skis, and more particularly to a multifunctional system for a pair of roller skis.

[0002] Roller skis are devices intended to be worn by a user to allow them to move around, experiencing the sensations of skiing on a snow-free surface.

[0003] There are non-motorized roller skis that allow a user to move in the same way as they would with cross-country or touring skis, that is, by reproducing the same movements. There are also motorized roller skis that allow users to reproduce the sensations of alpine skiing. For example, the French patent application filed by the applicant under number FR 2212891 discloses roller skis with a driven and pivoting front wheel.

[0004] However, roller skis have certain drawbacks. They can be difficult for the user to put on, especially if they are unable to sit down. Furthermore, they can also be difficult for the user to lift or carry, for example, due to their weight and size. These problems can be even more pronounced when the user is a child.

[0005] Consequently, the prior art solutions proposed for roller skis still have disadvantages and improvements are possible.

[0006] The present invention aims in particular to solve the problems indicated above by proposing a multifunctional system for a pair of roller skis.

[0007] Thus, the present invention relates to a multifunctional system for a pair of roller skis, characterized by the fact that the system comprises: a first connecting part attached to a first roller ski of the pair of roller skis; a second connecting part attached to a second roller ski of the pair of roller skis, the first connecting part and the second connecting part being configured to be arranged opposite each other on each of the roller skis of the pair of roller skis when said roller skis are aligned side by side on a flat surface;and a coupler configured to releasably connect the first roller ski to the second roller ski along an axis parallel to the axes of rotation of the wheels of the pair of roller skis, to form a stable assembly and to impose a fixed distance between the first connecting part and the second connecting part, the coupler comprising a spacer having a first spacer end configured to engage with the first connecting part, a second spacer end configured to engage with the second connecting part, and a spacer body extending between the first and second spacer ends, at least one of the first and second spacer ends; the end of the spacer being configured to engage in a releasable manner with the corresponding connecting part.

[0008] As mentioned in the introduction, there are roller skis comprising a steering wheel, for example roller skis with a pivoting front wheel. In this case, for the purposes of the invention, "axis of rotation of the wheels of the pair of roller skis" means the axes of rotation of the wheels defined in a rest state, that is to say, a state in which the axes of rotation of the front and rear wheels of a roller ski are parallel.

[0009] It will be understood that the formation, using the multi-function system, of a stable assembly from the pair of roller skis allows in particular a user to put on the roller skis more easily, even when the user does not have the possibility of sitting down.

[0010] It will also be understood that the formation of such a stable assembly makes it easier for the user to transport the pair of roller skis.

[0011] It will also be understood that, according to an unshown variant, the multifunction system may include latches at each releasable engagement point, so that a user can lock the multifunction system with a key after the stable assembly has been formed. The multifunction system then also has an anti-theft function. It will be understood that, in this case, the multifunction system, for example the spacer body, preferably includes an attachment system, for example a ring, allowing the multifunction system to be attached, for example by means of a cable, to an element of street furniture, for example a lamppost or a bicycle rack.

[0012] According to a particular embodiment, a gripping member is formed on the spacer body to allow a user to grip the spacer body in order to lift the pair of roller skis as a single unit and allow transport of the pair of roller skis, when the roller skis are not fitted by the user and the spacer is engaged with the first and second connecting parts.

[0013] It will be understood that the gripping organ allows the user to more easily grasp the spacer body in order to lift the pair of ski wheels.

[0014] It will also be understood that, preferably, the gripping member has an ergonomic three-dimensional shape designed to receive the user's hand, or part thereof. It will also be understood that the gripping member is preferably configured to have a length greater than the width of the user's hand, in order to facilitate the user's gripping of the member, for example, a length of 12 cm.

[0015] According to a particular embodiment, the first connecting part, respectively the second connecting part, is one of a connecting part integrated into a body of the respective roller ski of the pair of roller skis, and a connecting part integrated into a fastening device configured to be fastened to a body of the respective roller ski of the pair of roller skis.

[0016] Preferably, each connecting part is integrated into the body of the respective roller ski. It will be understood that several technical solutions can be used to obtain a roller ski body into which the connecting part is integrated, for example, screwing, a one-piece part, riveting, welding or bonding.

[0017] Alternatively, the first and second connecting parts can each be integrated into a respective fastening device configured to be attached to the body of the respective roller ski, so that the multifunctional system can be adapted to existing roller skis by retrofitting. The fastening device can, for example, be attached to the respective roller ski by welding, gluing, screwing, or clamping, for example, clamping with two jaws like a vise.

[0018] According to a particular embodiment, one of the first connecting part, respectively the second connecting part, and the first end of the spacer, respectively the second end of the spacer, comprises a "T" groove;and the other among the first connecting part, respectively the second connecting part, and the first end of the spacer, respectively the second end of the spacer, comprises an extension having a connecting portion and a distal end, beyond the connecting portion, the cross-section of which is larger than a cross-section of the connecting portion, and each releasable engagement is achieved by engaging a "T" groove and a respective extension, by sliding the connecting portion into a part of the "T" groove corresponding to the stem of the "T" and by sliding the distal end into a part of the "T" groove corresponding to the cross member of the "T". ;

[0019] This configuration allows for releaseable engagements between the spacer ends and the connecting parts by complementary shape and sliding.

[0020] It will be understood that other technical solutions could be implemented to obtain a releasable engagement, for example the use of magnets, the use of a ring and a hook or the use of an elastic interlock.

[0021] According to a particular embodiment, a bearing is disposed between the elements of at least one of the following: an assembly comprising the spacer body and the first spacer end, such that the first spacer end is able to rotate relative to the spacer body; an assembly comprising the spacer body and the second spacer end, such that the second spacer end is able to rotate relative to the spacer body; and, where applicable, an assembly comprising a fastening device and the respective connecting part. such that said connecting part is able to rotate relative to the respective securing device.

[0022] According to a particular embodiment, a maximum dimension of the cross-section of each junction portion is less than a width of the part of the respective "T" groove corresponding to the stem of the "T", and a maximum dimension of the cross-section of each distal end is less than a width of the part of the respective "T" groove corresponding to the cross of the "T", such that each extension can rotate in the respective "T" groove, after engagement.

[0023] Preferably, the joining portions are cylinders whose diameter is less than a width of the respective "T" groove portion corresponding to the stem of the "T". It will be understood, however, that according to variants, the joining portions could have other shapes, for example the shape of a prism with a polygonal base.

[0024] Preferably, the distal ends are always cylinders whose diameter is less than the width of the portion of the respective "T" groove corresponding to the cross member of the "T". It will be understood, however, that other shapes are possible, for example, prisms with a polygonal base.

[0025] According to a particular embodiment, a maximum dimension of the cross-section of each junction portion is less than a width of the respective part of the "T" groove corresponding to the shaft of the "T", each "T" groove further includes an inner chamber, and the cross-section of each distal end includes at least a first dimension less than a width of the respective part of the "T" groove corresponding to the cross member of the "T", and a second dimension both greater than the width of the respective part of the "T" groove corresponding to the cross member of the "T" and less than a minimum dimension of a cross-section of the respective inner chamber, such that each extension can slide in the respective "T" groove and then be locked in it, by rotation of the distal end in the inner chamber.

[0026] Preferably, the joining portions are cylinders whose diameter is less than a width of the respective "T" groove portion corresponding to the stem of the "T". It will be understood, however, that according to variants, the joining portions could have other shapes, for example the shape of a prism with a polygonal base.

[0027] Preferably, each inner chamber is in the form of a cylindrical recess, the axis of which is parallel to the shaft of the "T" of the respective T-slot. It will be understood, however, that according to variations, the chambers interiors could take other forms, for example a recess in the shape of a polygonal prism.

[0028] Preferably, the distal ends are always in the shape of an oval-based prism. However, it will be understood that, according to variations, the distal ends could have other shapes.

[0029] Thus, each extension can slide into the respective "T" groove and then be locked in it by the user, preferably by a 90° rotation of the spacer, along the axis parallel to the axes of rotation of the wheels of the pair of ski-wheels, causing a rotation of the distal ends in their respective inner chamber.

[0030] According to a particular embodiment, the first end of the spacer, respectively the second end of the spacer, includes a first means for locking in position; and the first connecting part, respectively the second connecting part, includes a second means for locking in position; and the first end of the spacer, respectively the second end of the spacer, is locked in a position of use relative to the first connecting part, respectively the second connecting part, by cooperation of the first and second means for locking in position, the first and second means for locking in position being chosen from: two magnets; and a pair of a recess and one from among a spring-loaded rod and a spring-loaded ball.

[0031] It will be understood that, preferably, the locking means in position allow the spacer ends to be maintained in a prescribed operating position after locking, for example after a 90° rotation of the spacer ends in the connecting parts along the axis parallel to the axes of rotation of the wheels of the pair of ski-wheels.

[0032] It will also be understood that the locking means can, alternatively, be used as a notch to indicate to the user the correct position of the spacer relative to the connecting parts, before any rotation about the axis parallel to the axes of rotation of the wheels of the pair of roller skis. The locking means can then be placed on the axis of rotation of the spacer, that is to say, the axis parallel to the axes of rotation of the wheels of the pair of roller skis.

[0033] It will also be understood that the means of locking in position can implement other technical solutions, for example a tight fit, a friction force, or other elements stressed by spring.

[0034] It will finally be understood that the means of locking in position are preferably configured to allow a user to manually unlock the means of locking in position.

[0035] According to a particular embodiment, the multifunction system is configured to be used with motorized roller skis, a housing being formed in the spacer body to receive a remote control for controlling at least one motor of the roller skis.

[0036] According to a particular embodiment, the housing includes at least one window configured to allow a user to manipulate at least one control button of the remote control received in the housing, and the spacer body is configured so that, when the spacer is not engaged with the connecting parts, it can be held in the hand by the user in order to control a movement of the ski wheels using the remote control.

[0037] This configuration allows the user in particular to hold the multifunction system in his hand, when he has put on the roller skis, to control his movement on the roller skis.

[0038] It will be understood that the number of windows is chosen according to the remote control intended to be received in the dwelling. Other windows may, for example, be provided to display a remote control display or to allow manipulation of buttons for selecting operating modes of the roller skis. The control button may, for example, be a trigger-type button or a control lever-type button.

[0039] An opening may be provided in the spacer body, for example a hatch in the spacer body or a spacer body formed of two shells joined by means of a hinge, allowing access to the housing to remove the remote control, either to change the batteries or to change the remote control, while keeping the coupler.

[0040] According to a particular embodiment, the coupler further comprises a gripping part connected to the spacer body by a telescopic part, the telescopic part being configured to selectively extend the gripping part opposite the spacer body and retract the gripping part towards the spacer body, and the gripping part being configured to allow a user to grip it in order to pull the pair of roller skis as a single unit and to allow transport of the pair of roller skis, when the roller skis are not fitted by the user and the spacer is engaged with the first and second connecting parts.

[0041] Preferably, the telescopic part comprises two telescopic tubes, each extending between a respective end of the gripping part and the spacer body. However, it will be understood that, according to an alternative embodiment, the telescopic part may comprise a single telescopic tube connecting a central portion of the gripping part and the spacer body.

[0042] According to a particular embodiment, the gripping part includes a remote control configured to control a release of the first end of the spacer, respectively of the second end of the spacer, from the first connecting part, respectively from the second connecting part.

[0043] For example, if the position-locking means use spring-loaded elements, the remote control can be a cable system that applies force to the spring-loaded elements against the springs. Again, for example, if the position-locking means use magnets, more specifically electromagnets, the remote control can be a control system for the electromagnets.

[0044] According to a particular embodiment, the gripping part includes at least one control button configured to control at least one of a braking of the roller skis and an acceleration of the roller skis.

[0045] This configuration allows the user in particular to control the motorized roller skis during transport, when the user has extended the telescopic part and is pulling the roller skis using the gripping part.

[0046] According to a particular embodiment, one of the first end of the spacer and the second end of the spacer is permanently engaged and articulated with the corresponding connecting part, so that the coupler can be folded down along the ski wheel to which it is permanently connected.

[0047] Preferably, the coupler can be folded down like a kickstand along the corresponding roller ski so as not to interfere with the use of the roller skis.

[0048] The articulated joint may, for example, include a pivot joint or a ball joint.

[0049] Furthermore, it will be understood that the releasable engagement of the spacer end configured to engage in a releasable manner with its corresponding connecting part can be of different kinds, and can for example involve a "T" groove in which an extension slides in a manner analogous to a multifunctional system with double releasable engagement.

[0050] It can be specified here that the use of a "T" groove comprising an inner chamber on the side of the releasable engagement can also allow locking by rotation, for example by 90°, about the axis parallel to the axes of rotation of the wheels of the pair of roller skis, of the extension in the inner chamber in a manner analogous to a multifunctional system with double releasable engagement. In this case, it will be understood that if the permanent articulated connection is implemented by a pivot-type hinge, the pivot connection is mounted on a bearing allowing the user to rotate the spacer about the axis parallel to the axes of rotation of the wheels of the pair of roller skis, after releasable engagement of the extension with the respective connecting part. It will also be understood that the use of a ball joint for the The permanent articulated linkage allows the user to directly perform the necessary rotation along the axis parallel to the axes of rotation of the wheels of the pair of roller skis.

[0051] Particular embodiments of the present invention will now be described, with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0052] On these drawings:

[0053] [Fig-1] is a top view of a pair of roller skis on which is mounted a multifunctional system according to a first embodiment of the invention.

[0054] [Fig.2] is a perspective view of the coupler of [Fig. 1].

[0055] [Fig.3] is a perspective view of the first linking part of the system multifunction of the [Fig.1], arranged on the first roller ski.

[0056] [Fig.4a] is an exploded view of a connecting part of the multifunction system of the [Fig.l].

[0057] [Fig.4b] is a perspective view of the outer part of the connecting part of the [Fig.4a], on which the inner chamber is visible.

[0058] [Fig. 5a] is a perspective view of the pair of roller skis and the system multifunction of [Fig.l], the coupler is rotated 90° relative to [Fig.l].

[0059] [Fig. 5b] is a perspective view of the pair of roller skis and the system multifunctional [Fig.5a], the telescopic part is extended.

[0060] [Fig.6] is a perspective view of a variant of the first embodiment of the Multifunctional system, the telescopic part is extended.

[0061] If we refer first of all to [Fig.1], we can see that a multifunctional system M according to a first embodiment of the present invention is represented there, mounted on a pair of roller skis SI, S2.

[0062] A multifunctional system M according to the invention comprises a first linking part 1, a second linking part 2 and a coupler 3.

[0063] The first connecting part 1 is attached to a first roller ski SI of the pair of roller skis SI, S2 and the second connecting part 2 is attached to a second roller ski S2 of the pair of roller skis SI, S2.

[0064] Furthermore, the first connecting part 1 and the second connecting part 2 are configured to be arranged opposite each other on each of the roller skis SI, S2 of the pair of roller skis SI, S2, when said roller skis SI, S2 are aligned side by side on a flat surface.

[0065] According to the first embodiment shown in Figures 1 to 6, the first connecting part 1 and the second connecting part 2 are integrated into a body C of the respective roller ski SI, S2 of the pair of roller skis SI, S2.

[0066] However, alternatively and according to an embodiment of the multifunctional system M not shown, the first connecting part 1 and the second connecting part 2 are each integrated into a respective fastening device configured to be attached to a body C of the respective SI, S2 roller ski of the pair of SI, S2 roller skis, so that the multifunction system M adapts to existing SI, S2 roller skis by retrofitting installation.

[0067] According to the invention, the coupler 3 is configured to releasably connect the first roller ski S1 to the second roller ski S2 along an axis parallel to the axes of rotation of the wheels R of the pair of roller skis SI, S2, to form a stable assembly and to impose a fixed distance between the first connecting part 1 and the second connecting part 3.

[0068] As mentioned in the introduction, there are roller skis SI, S2 comprising a steering wheel R, for example, roller skis SI, S2 with a pivoting front wheel R. In this case, for the purposes of the invention, the "axis of rotation of the wheels R of the pair of roller skis SI, S2" means the axes of rotation of the wheels R defined in a rest state, that is to say, a state in which the front wheel R of the roller ski SI, S2 is aligned with the rear wheel R of the roller ski SI, S2 with their axes of rotation parallel. This rest state is illustrated in Figures 1, 3, 5a and 5b.

[0069] If we also refer to [Fig.2] on which a coupler 3 according to the first embodiment is shown, we can see that the coupler 3 comprises a spacer 31 having a first spacer end 311, a second spacer end 312, and a spacer body 313.

[0070] The first end of the spacer 311 is configured to engage with the first connecting part 1, the second end of the spacer 312 is configured to engage with the second connecting part 2, and the body of the spacer 313 extends between the first and second ends of the spacer 311, 312.

[0071] It will be understood that the formation, using the multifunction system M, of a stable assembly from the pair of SI, S2 roller skis allows in particular a user to put on the SI, S2 roller skis more easily, even when the user does not have the possibility of sitting down.

[0072] It will also be understood that the formation of such a stable assembly allows a user to lift and transport the pair of SI, S2 roller skis in one piece.

[0073] It will also be understood that, according to an unshown variant, the multifunction system M may include latches at each releasable engagement point, so that a user can lock the multifunction system M with a key after the stable assembly has been formed. The multifunction system then also has an anti-theft function. It will be understood that, in this case, the multifunction system M, for example the spacer body 313, preferably includes an attachment system, for example a ring, for attaching the multifunction system M, for example with a cable, to an element of street furniture, for example a lamppost or a bicycle rack.

[0074] Thus, a coupler 3 according to the invention preferably includes a gripping member 313a formed on the spacer body 313 to allow the user to grip the spacer body 313 in order to lift the pair of roller skis SI, S2 as a single unit and allow the pair of roller skis SI, S2 to be transported when the roller skis SI, S2 are not fitted by the user and the spacer 31 is engaged with the first and second connecting parts 1, 2. It will be understood that, preferably, the gripping member 313a has an ergonomic three-dimensional shape designed to receive the user's hand, or a part thereof. It will also be understood that the gripping member 313a is preferably configured to have a length greater than the width of the user's hand, in order to facilitate the user's gripping of the gripping member 313a, for example a length of 12 cm.

[0075] Preferably, the coupler 3 further comprises a gripping portion 33 connected to the spacer body 313 by a telescopic portion 32. The telescopic portion 32 is configured to selectively extend the gripping portion 33 away from the spacer body 313 and retract the gripping portion 33 towards the spacer body 313. The gripping portion 33 is configured to allow the user to grip it in order to pull the pair of roller skis SI, S2 as a single unit and to allow transport of the pair of roller skis SI, S2 when the roller skis SI, S2 are not being worn by the user and the spacer 31 is engaged with the first and second connecting portions 1, 2.

[0076] Figure 2 shows a coupler 3 according to the invention with the telescopic part 32 in the retracted position, while Figure 6 shows a coupler 3 according to the invention with the telescopic part 32 in the extended position. Figure 5b shows the multifunction system M in a configuration allowing the user to tow the pair of roller skis SI, S2 as a single unit by means of the gripping part 33.

[0077] In Figures 2 and 6, the telescopic part comprises two telescopic tubes each extending between a respective end of the gripping part 33 and the spacer body 313. It will be understood, however, that according to an alternative not shown, the telescopic part 32 could comprise a single telescopic tube connecting a central part of the gripping part 33 and the spacer body 313.

[0078] As mentioned above, according to the invention, the coupler 3 is configured to releasably connect the first roller ski SI to the second roller ski S2. This effect can be obtained either by combining a releasable engagement between the coupler 3 and the first roller ski SI and a releasable engagement between the coupler 3 and the second roller ski S2, or by combining a releasable engagement between the coupler 3 and one of the roller skis SI, S2 and a permanent engagement between the coupler 3 and the other of the roller skis SI, S2.

[0079] According to the first embodiment shown in Figures 1 to 6, and as will be described in more detail below, the first end of spacer 311 and the second end of spacer 312 are configured to engage in a releasable manner with their corresponding connecting part 1, 2.

[0080] However, according to an embodiment not shown which will be described in more detail below, one of the first end of spacer 311 and of the second end of spacer 312 is permanently engaged with its corresponding connecting part 1, 2, and the other of the first end of spacer 311 and of the second end of spacer 312 is configured to engage in a releasable manner with its corresponding connecting part 1, 2.

[0081] For the purposes of the invention, "releaseable engagement" or "releaseable link" means an engagement, or a link, which can be released manually by a user, by manipulating the coupler 3 and / or the linking parts 1, 2.

[0082] It will therefore be understood that different technical solutions can be implemented to obtain a releasable engagement, for example the use of magnets, the use of a ring and a hook or the use of an elastic interlocking.

[0083] However, for the first embodiment of the invention, an engagement by complementary form and sliding is preferred in order to allow a releaseable engagement between the ends of spacer 311, 312 and their corresponding connecting parts 1, 2, respectively.

[0084] Furthermore, for the first embodiment shown in Figures 1 to 6, the multifunctional system M is designed such that the second end of the spacer 312 is a mirror symmetry of the first end of the spacer 311, with respect to a median transverse plane of the spacer body 313, and that the first and second connecting parts 1, 2 are arranged on the ski wheels SI, S2 such that the second ski wheel S2 is a mirror symmetry of the first ski wheel SI.

[0085] It will be understood, however, that according to certain embodiments not shown, the symmetries mentioned above may, in some cases, not be respected.

[0086] As can be seen more clearly in Figures 3 and 4a, the first part of the connection 1 includes a "T" groove 11. Furthermore, as stated above, for the first embodiment, the second connecting part 2 is a mirror symmetry of the first connecting part 1, such that the second connecting part 2 also includes a similar "T" groove 21.

[0087] According to the first embodiment shown in [Fig. 4a], the connecting parts 1, 2 each comprise an outer part 12, 22, a central part 13, 23, and an inner part 14, 24, assembled together by screwing. It will be understood that other technical solutions can also be used for this assembly, for example riveting, bonding, or welding. It will also be understood that for each connecting part 1, 2, as required, two or three parts from the outer part 12, 22, the central part 13, 23 and the outer part 14, 24 could be formed as one piece.

[0088] The outer part 12, 22 of each connecting part 1, 2 receives the corresponding "T" groove 11, 21.

[0089] The inner portion 14, 24 of each connecting portion 1, 2 is attached to the respective roller ski SI, S2. According to the first embodiment, each inner portion 14, 24 is integrated into the body C of the respective roller ski SI, S2 and is attached to it by screwing. It will be understood, however, that the attachment can be achieved by another technical solution, for example by a single piece, by riveting, by welding, or by bonding. It will also be understood that the same screws can be used to assemble the outer portion 12, 22, the central portion 13, 23, and the outer portion 14, 24 together and to attach the outer portion 14, 24 to the respective roller ski SI, S2.It will also be understood that, according to one variant, the first set of screws can be used to secure the outer part 14, 24 to the respective SI, S2 roller ski, and the second set of screws can be used to assemble the outer part 12, 22, the central part 13, 23, and the outer part 14, 24 together. As mentioned above, alternatively, and according to an embodiment of the multifunction system M not shown, in order for the multifunction system M to be adaptable to existing SI, S2 roller skis by retrofitting, the first connecting part 1 and the second connecting part 2 can each be integrated into a respective fastening device configured to be secured to a body C of the respective SI, S2 roller ski.It will then be understood that the outer part 14, 24 is attached to the respective fastening device, for example by screwing, riveting, welding or gluing, and that the fastening device is attached to the respective roller ski SI, S2, for example by welding, gluing, screwing or clamping, for example clamping with two jaws in the manner of a vise.

[0090] The central portion 13, 23 is interposed between the outer portion 12, 22 and the inner portion 14, 24 and may include locking means in position 4 configured to hold the spacer ends 311, 312 in a prescribed operating position. These locking means in position 4 will be described in more detail below.

[0091] As can be seen more clearly in [Fig. 2], the first end of the spacer 311, respectively the second end of the spacer 312, comprises an extension 311a, 312a. Each extension 311a, 312a has a connecting portion 311b, 312b and a distal end 311c, 312c, beyond the connecting portion 311b, 312b. Moreover, a cross-section of each distal end 311c, 312c is larger than a cross-section of the respective connecting portion 311b, 312b.

[0092] Thus, for the first embodiment of the invention, each releasable engagement is made by engaging a "T" groove 11, 21 and a respective extension 311a, 312a, by sliding the junction portion 311b, 312b in a part 11a, 21a of the "T" groove 11,21 corresponding to the shaft of the "T" and by sliding the distal end 311c, 312c in a part 11b, 21b of the "T" groove 11,21 corresponding to the cross of the "T".

[0093] It will be understood that, according to a variant of the first embodiment not shown, the male and female parts can be reversed, that is to say that the connecting parts 1, 2 could include the extensions 311a, 312a and the spacer ends 311, 312 could include the "T" grooves 11, 21. It will also be understood that in this case, the engagement of the connecting parts 1, 2 and the spacer ends 311, 312 remains analogous to that described above.

[0094] For the first embodiment of the multifunctional system M shown in Figures 1 to 5, and as can be seen more clearly in [Fig. 2], a maximum dimension of the cross-section of each connecting portion 311b, 312b is less than a width of the respective part 11a, 21a of the T-slot 11, 21 corresponding to the stem of the T. According to the first embodiment, the connecting portions 311b, 312b are cylinders whose diameter is less than a width of the respective part 11a, 21a of the T-slot 11, 21 corresponding to the stem of the T. It will be understood, however, that according to variants not shown, the connecting portions 311b, 312b could have other shapes, for example, the shape of a prism with a polygonal base.

[0095] Furthermore, as can be better seen in [Fig. 4b], each T-slot 11, 21 also includes an inner chamber 11, 21c. According to the first embodiment, each inner chamber 11c, 21c is in the form of a cylindrical recess, the axis of which is parallel to the shaft of the T of the respective T-slot 11, 21. It will be understood, however, that according to variants not shown, the inner chambers 111, 211 could be in other forms, for example, a recess in the form of a prism with a polygonal base.

[0096] Furthermore, with reference to Figures 2 to 4b, the cross-section of each distal end 311c, 312c comprises at least one first dimension less than a width of the portion 11b, 21b of the respective T-slot 11, 21 corresponding to the cross member of the T, and a second dimension both greater than the width of the portion 11b, 21b of the respective T-slot corresponding to the cross member of the T and less than a minimum dimension of a cross-section of the respective inner chamber 11, 21c. According to the variant of the first embodiment shown in [Fig. 2], the distal ends 311c, 312c have the shape of a prism. with an oval base. It will be understood, however, that according to variants not shown, the distal ends 311c, 312c could have other shapes.

[0097] Thus, each extension 311a, 312a can slide into the respective "T" groove 11, 21 and then be locked in it by the user, by a 90° rotation of the spacer 31, along the axis parallel to the axes of rotation of the wheels R of the pair of ski-wheels SI, S2, causing a rotation of the distal ends 311c, 312c in their respective inner chamber 11c, 21c.

[0098] Figure 6 shows a variant of the first embodiment. This variant is identical to that shown in Figure 2 except for the distal ends 311c, 312c. Thus, for the variant shown in Figure 6, a maximum dimension of the cross-section of each distal end 311c, 312c is less than a width of the portion 11b, 21b of the respective T-slot 11, 21 corresponding to the cross member of the T. In particular, for the illustrated variant, the distal ends 311c, 312c are cylinders with a diameter less than the width of the portion 11b, 21b of the respective T-slot 11, 21 corresponding to the cross member of the T. It will be understood that other shapes are possible, for example, prisms with a polygonal base. It will also be understood that each extension 311a, 312a can then rotate freely in the respective "T" groove 11, 21, after engagement.It will therefore be understood that this variant, unlike the variant shown in [Fig.2], does not allow locking between the extensions 311a, 312a and the "T" grooves 11, 21 by cooperation of the distal ends 311c, 312c and the inner chambers 11c, 21c after 90° rotation of the spacer 31 around the axis parallel to the axes of rotation of the wheels R of the pair of ski-wheels SI, S2, so that, in this case, the "T" grooves 11, 21 can be free of inner chamber 11, 21c. .

[0099] It will be understood that a free rotation, that is to say without locking, of the spacer body 313 around the axis parallel to the axes of rotation of the wheels R of the pair of ski-wheels SI, S2 relative to the ski-wheels SI, S2 allows for example a user to lift the ski-wheels SI, S2 by grasping the spacer body 313, without needing to change his grip on the spacer body 313 during the lifting.

[0100] It will also be understood that, according to embodiments not shown, free rotation, i.e. without locking, of the spacer body 313 about the axis parallel to the axes of rotation of the wheels R of the pair of roller skis SI, S2 relative to the roller skis SI, S2 can be obtained by the use of bearings, for example by using a bearing disposed between the spacer body 313 and the first end of the spacer 311, such that the first end of the spacer 311 is able to rotate relative to the spacer body 313, and a bearing disposed between the spacer body 313 and the second end of the spacer 312, such that the second end of the spacer 312 is able to rotate relative to the spacer body. 313, or, again for example, in the case where the multifunction system M includes fastening devices, by using a bearing disposed between each fastening device and the respective connecting part 1, 2, such that each connecting part 1, 2 is able to rotate relative to the respective fastening device.

[0101] Furthermore, it will be understood that the use of a symmetrical structure for the connecting parts 1, 2 and the spacer ends 311, 312, as shown in Figures 1 to 6, allows the coupler 3 to be mounted in both directions, that is to say that the first spacer end 311 could also be engaged in a releasable manner with the second connecting part 2, the second spacer end 312 then being engaged in a releasable manner with the first connecting part 1.

[0102] In certain cases, however, it may be desirable to obtain a keying effect, such that the coupler 3 can only be engaged with the connecting parts 1, 2 in one prescribed direction. Thus, according to one embodiment, a T-slot couple 11, 21 / extension 311a, 312a may have larger dimensions than the other T-slot couple 11, 21 / extension 311a, 312a. According to another variant, the male and female parts could be reversed for only one of the pairs, i.e. one linking part 1, 2 could include a 11,21 T-groove while the other linking part 1, 2 would include an extension 311a, 312a, and one spacer end 311, 312 could include an extension 31a, 312a while the other spacer end 311, 312 would include a 11, 21 T-groove.

[0103] As mentioned above, according to the first embodiment shown in Figures 1 to 5, the multifunction system M further includes locking means in position 4 configured to maintain the spacer ends 311, 312 in a prescribed operating position relative to the connecting parts 1, 2.

[0104] By referring to [Fig.2], it can be seen that each distal end 311c, 312c includes a first locking means in position 4 in the form of two magnets received in two recesses formed in the corresponding distal end 311c, 312c.

[0105] By referring to [Fig.4a], it can be seen that each connecting part 1, 2 includes a second locking means in position 4 in the form of two magnets received in recesses formed in the corresponding central part 13, 23 and inner part 14, 24.

[0106] For the first embodiment, it will be understood that the locking means in position 4 make it possible to maintain the ends of spacer 311, 312 in a prescribed operating position, after a 90° rotation of the ends of spacer 311, 312 in the connecting parts 1, 2, along the axis parallel to the axes of rotation of the wheels R of the pair of ski-wheels SI, S2.

[0107] It will also be understood that the locking means in position 4 could, alternatively, be used as a notch to indicate to the user a correct position of the spacer 31 relative to the connecting parts 1, 2, before any possible rotation about the axis parallel to the axes of rotation of the wheels R of the pair of roller skis SI, S2. The magnets could then be placed on the axis of rotation of the spacer 31, that is to say the axis parallel to the axes of rotation of the wheels R of the pair of roller skis SI, S2.

[0108] It will also be understood that the means for locking in position 4 may employ other technical solutions, in addition to or instead of magnets, for example, a tight fit, a friction force, or spring-loaded elements, for example, balls or rods, cooperating with correspondingly formed recesses. It will also be understood that the means for locking in position 4 are preferably configured to allow a user to manually release the means for locking in position 4.

[0109] In the case of a multifunction system M comprising a gripping part 33, the gripping part 33 may include a remote control configured to control the release of the first end of a spacer 311, or the second end of a spacer 312, from the first connecting part 1, or the second connecting part 2, respectively. For example, if the means for locking in position 4 use spring-loaded elements, the remote control may be a cable system that applies force to the spring-loaded elements against the springs. Again, for example, if the means for locking in position 4 use magnets, more specifically electromagnets, the remote control may be a system for controlling the electromagnets.

[0110] According to the first embodiment, the multifunction system M is configured for use with motorized SI, S2 roller skis. As can be seen more clearly in Figures 2 and 6, a housing 313b is formed in the spacer body 313 to receive a remote control for operating the roller skis. It will be understood that each SI, S2 roller ski can include one or more motors configured to drive the front wheel R and / or the rear wheel R.

[0111] In addition, housing 313b includes three windows 313c. A first window 313c is configured to allow the user to manipulate a control button, for example, a trigger or lever-type button, of the remote control received in housing 313b. Two other windows 313c are configured to expose a display device for the remote control and to allow manipulation of buttons for selecting operating modes of the SI, S2 roller skis. It will be understood, however, that the number of windows 313c may vary depending on the remote control intended to be received in housing 313b. The spacer body may be designed to provide access to the housing, via a hatch or two shells hinged together to form the spacer body, in particular to allow access to the remote control for replacement or battery changes.

[0112] Furthermore, the spacer body 313 is configured so that, when the spacer 31 is not engaged with the connecting parts 1, 2, it can be held by the user in order to control the movement of the roller skis SI, S2 using the remote control, for example by manipulating the trigger-type control button or control lever, to accelerate or brake the roller skis SI, S2. Thus, the first embodiment allows the user to hold the multifunction system M in their hand, when they have put on the roller skis SI, S2, to control their movement on the roller skis SI, S2.

[0113] According to an embodiment not shown, the gripping part 33 may further include one or more control buttons configured to control braking of the SI, S2 roller skis and acceleration of the SI, S2 roller skis. This configuration allows the user in particular to control the SI, S2 roller skis during transport, when the user has extended the telescopic part 32 and is pulling the SI, S2 roller skis using the gripping part 33.

[0114] It will also be understood that the multifunction system M can, alternatively, have a simpler configuration without housing 313b or window 313c. This simplified configuration can, for example, be used when the control system for the SI, S2 roller skis is not intended to be received in the coupler 3 or when the SI, S2 roller skis are not motorized.

[0115] Furthermore, as mentioned above, the coupler 3 is configured to releasably connect the first roller ski S1 to the second roller ski S2, and according to an embodiment not shown, one of the first end of spacer 311 and the second end of spacer 312 is permanently engaged with its corresponding connecting part 1, 2, and the other of the first end of spacer 311 and the second end of spacer 312 is configured to releasably engage with its corresponding connecting part 1, 2.

[0116] According to this embodiment, the end of the spacer 311, 312 permanently engaged with its corresponding connecting part 1, 2 is preferably engaged via an articulated connection, for example a pivot connection or a ball joint, so that in use the coupler 3 can be folded down like a crutch along the corresponding roller ski SI, S2 so as not to interfere with the use of the roller skis SI, S2.

[0117] Furthermore, it will be understood that the releasable engagement of the spacer end 311, 312 configured to engage in a releasable manner with its corresponding connecting part 1, 2 can be of a different nature, and may, for example, involve a "T" groove 11, 21 in which an extension 311a, 312a slides in a manner analogous to what has been described above for a multifunction M system with dual releaseable engagement.

[0118] It can be specified here that the use of a "T" groove 11,21 comprising an inner chamber 1 le, 21c on the side of the releaseable engagement can also allow a locking by rotation of 90°, along the axis parallel to the axes of rotation of the wheels R of the pair of ski-wheels SI, S2, of the extension 311a, 312a in the inner chamber 1 le, 21c in a manner analogous to that which has been described above for a multifunction system M with double releaseable engagement. In this case, it will be understood that if the permanent articulated link is implemented by a pivot type hinge, the pivot link is mounted on a bearing allowing the user to drive the spacer 31 in rotation around the axis parallel to the axes of rotation of the wheels R of the pair of ski-wheels SI, S2, after releasable engagement of the extension 311a, 312a with the respective linking part 1, 2.It will also be understood that the use of a ball joint for the permanent articulated connection allows the user to directly perform the necessary rotation around the axis parallel to the axes of rotation of the wheels R of the pair of ski-wheels SI, S2. .

[0119] According to the first embodiment, and as can be seen in Figures 1 and 3 to 5b, when the wheels R of the ski-wheels SI, S2 are in contact with a horizontal surface, the T-grooves 11, 21 of the connecting parts 1, 2 extend in a vertical direction. It will be understood, however, that according to other embodiments not shown, the T-grooves 11, 21 of the connecting parts 1, 2 could extend in other directions, for example, at an angle of 45° to the vertical direction.

[0120] With reference to Figures 1, 5a and 5b, we will now briefly describe some uses of a multifunction system M according to the first embodiment.

[0121] In [Fig. 1], the coupler 3 is loosely engaged with the connecting parts 1, 2, without locking. This configuration creates a stable assembly, making it easier, for example, to put on the roller skis SI, S2. According to a variant of [Fig. 1], the gripping part 33 could be positioned upwards and the telescopic part 32 could be extended, so that, once the roller skis SI, S2 are put on, the user could pull on the gripping part 33 to release the coupler 3 from the connecting parts 1, 2, thus retrieving the coupler 3 without bending down.

[0122] In [Fig. 5a], the coupler 3 is rotated 90° relative to [Fig. 1]. The coupler 3 is therefore locked with the connecting parts 1, 2. This position can, for example, be used to lift the pair of SI, S2 roller skis by grasping the gripping member 313a.

[0123] On [Fig.5b], the coupler 3 is rotated 90° relative to [Fig. 1] and the telescopic part 32 is extended to allow the pair of ski-wheels SI, S2 to be pulled by grasping the gripping part 33.

[0124] It is understood that the particular embodiments which have just been described have been given by way of indication and not limitation, and that modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Claims

Demands

1. - Multifunctional system (M) for a pair of roller skis (SI, S2), comprising: - a first connecting part (1) attached to a first roller ski (SI) of the pair of roller skis (SI, S2); - a second connecting part (2) attached to a second roller ski (S2) of the pair of roller skis (SI, S2), the first connecting part (1) and the second connecting part (2) being configured to be arranged opposite each other on each of the roller skis (SI, S2) of the pair of roller skis (SI, S2) when said roller skis (SI, S2) are aligned side by side on a flat surface;and - a coupler (3) configured to releasably connect the first roller ski (S1) to the second roller ski (S2) along an axis parallel to the axes of rotation of the wheels (R) of the pair of roller skis (S1, S2), to form a stable assembly and to impose a fixed distance between the first connecting part (1) and the second connecting part (2), the coupler (3) comprising a spacer (31) having a first spacer end (311) configured to engage with the first connecting part (1), a second spacer end (312) configured to engage with the second connecting part (2), and a spacer body (313) extending between the first and second spacer ends (311, 312), at least one of the first spacer end (311) and the second spacer end (312) being configured to engage in a releasable manner with the corresponding linking part (1,2);characterized by the fact that the first connecting part (1), respectively the second connecting part (2), is one of a connecting part (1,2) integrated into a body (C) of the respective roller ski (SI, S2) of the pair of roller skis (SI, S2), and a connecting part (1,2) integrated into a fastening device configured to be fastened to a body (C) of the respective roller ski (SI, S2) of the pair of roller skis (SI, S2).;

2. - System (M) according to claim 1, characterized in that a gripping member (313a) is formed on the spacer body (313) to allow a user to grip the spacer body (313a) in order to lift the pair of roller skis (SI, S2) as a single unit and allow transport of the pair of roller skis (SI, S2), when the roller skis (SI, S2) are not fitted by the user and the spacer (31) is engaged with the first and second connecting parts (1,2).

3. - System (M) according to claim 1 or claim 2, characterized by the fact that one of the first connecting part (1), respectively the second connecting part (2), and the first end of the spacer (311), respectively the second end of the spacer (312), includes a "T" groove (11, 21);and the other among the first connecting part (1), respectively the second connecting part (2), and the first end of the spacer (311), respectively the second end of the spacer (312), comprises an extension (311a, 312a) having a connecting portion (311b, 312b) and a distal end (311c, 312c), beyond the connecting portion (311b, 312b), the cross-section of which is larger than a cross-section of the connecting portion (311b, 312b), and each releasable engagement is achieved by engaging a T-slot (11, 21) and a respective extension (311a, 312a), by sliding the connecting portion (311b, 312b) into a portion (1a, 21a) of the T-slot (11, 21) corresponding to the shaft of the " T" and by sliding the distal end (311c, 312c) into a part (11b, 21b) of the "T" groove (11,21) corresponding to the crossbar of the "T".;

4. - System (M) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized by the fact that a bearing is disposed between the elements of at least one of: an assembly comprising the spacer body (313) and the first spacer end (311), such that the first spacer end (311) is able to rotate relative to the spacer body (313), an assembly comprising the spacer body (313) and the second spacer end (312), such that the second spacer end (312) is able to rotate relative to the spacer body (313), and where applicable, an assembly comprising a fastening device and the respective connecting part (1,2), such that said connecting part (1,2) is able to rotate relative to the respective fastening device.

5. - System (M) according to claim 3, characterized in that a maximum dimension of the cross section of each junction portion (311b, 312b) is less than a width of the part (1a, 21a) of the respective "T" groove (11, 21) corresponding to the shaft of the "T", and that a maximum dimension of the cross section of each distal end (311c, 312c) is less than a width of the part (11b, 21b) of the respective "T" groove (11, 21) corresponding to the cross of the "T", such that each extension (311a, 312a) can rotate in the respective "T" groove (11, 21), after engagement.

6. - System (M) according to claim 3, characterized in that: a maximum dimension of the cross-section of each junction portion (311b, 312b) is less than a width of the portion (1a, 21a) of the respective T-slot (11, 21) corresponding to the stem of the T, each T-slot (11, 21) further comprises an inner chamber (11c, 21c), and the cross-section of each distal end (311c, 312c) comprises at least a first dimension less than a width of the portion (11b, 21b) of the respective T-slot (11, 21) corresponding to the cross member of the T, and a second dimension both greater than the width of the portion (11b, 21b) of the respective T-slot (11, 21) corresponding to the cross member of the T and less than a minimum dimension of a cross-section of the respective inner chamber (11c, 21c), such that each extension (311a,312a) can slide into the respective "T" groove (11, 21) and then be locked in it by rotation of the distal end (311c, 312c) into the inner chamber (11c, 21c).

7. - A system (M) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the first spacer end (311), or the second spacer end (312), respectively, comprises a first locking means in position (4); and the first connecting part (1), or the second connecting part (2), respectively, comprises a second locking means in position (4); and the first spacer end (311), or the second spacer end (312), respectively, is locked in a working position relative to the first connecting part (1), or the second connecting part (2), by cooperation of the first and second locking means in position (4), the first and second locking means in position (4) being chosen from: two magnets; and a pair of a recess and one from among a spring-loaded rod and a spring-loaded ball.

8. - System (M) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the system (M) is configured to be used with motorized roller skis (SI, S2), a housing (313b) being formed in the spacer body (313) to receive a remote control of at least one motor of the roller skis (S1,S2).

9. - System (M) according to claim 8, characterized in that the housing (313b) includes at least one window (313c) configured to allow a user to manipulate at least one control button of the remote control received in the housing (313b), and the spacer body (313) is configured so that, when the spacer (31) is not engaged with the connecting parts (1,2), it can be held in the hand by the user in order to control a movement of the ski wheels (SI, S2) using the remote control.

10. - A system (M) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the coupler (3) further comprises a gripping portion (33) connected to the spacer body (313) by a telescopic portion (32), the telescopic portion (32) being configured to selectively extend the gripping portion (33) away from the spacer body (313) and retract the gripping portion (33) towards the spacer body (313), and the gripping portion (33) being configured to allow a user to grip it in order to pull the pair of roller skis (SI, S2) as a single unit and to transport the pair of roller skis (SI, S2), when the roller skis (SI, S2) are not being worn by the user and the spacer (31) is engaged with the first and second parts of (1,2) link.

11. - System (M) according to claim 10 taking into account claim 7, characterized in that the gripping part (33) includes a remote control configured to control a release of the first end of spacer (311), respectively of the second end of spacer (312), from the first connecting part (1), respectively from the second connecting part (2).

12. - System (M) according to any one of claims 10 and 11 taken in dependence on claim 8, characterized in that the gripping part (33) includes at least one control button configured to control at least one of a braking of the roller skis (SI, S2) and an acceleration of the roller skis (SI, S2).

13. - System according to any one of claims 1 and 2, 4 dependent on any one of claims 1 and 2, or 10 dependent on any one of claims 1 and 2 or 4 dependent on any one of claims 1 and 2, characterized in that one of the first end of spacer (311) and the second end of spacer (312) is permanently engaged and articulated with the corresponding connecting part (1,2) such that the coupler (3) is foldable along the ski wheel (SI, S2) to which it is permanently connected.

Images