Surfboard and spring assembly

Abstract

The surfboard includes a core, a first elongated spring member disposed adjacent an upper surface of the core, and a second elongated spring member disposed adjacent a lower surface of the core, the first elongated spring member extending substantially from a nose portion of the surfboard to a tail portion of the surfboard.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to surfboards. The present invention has particular application, but is not limited to, surfboards with energy recovery. Although the patent specification describes this use, it is merely an example and the present invention is not limited to this use. [Background technology]

[0002] Surfboards are typically made from polyurethane or polystyrene foam covered with a layer of fiberglass cloth, and polyester or epoxy resin. The use of these materials results in a light, strong surfboard that is buoyant and maneuverable.

[0003] Fiberglass surfboards typically have a degree of flexibility that allows the surfboard to build energy throughout the turn by bending in the turn, resulting in a greater vertical curve in the surfboard between the nose and tail, which stores energy. When the surfboard comes out of the turn, the surfboard quickly returns to its original shape, releasing the stored energy and propelling the surfboard out of the turn.

[0004] However, there is typically a trade-off between strength and flexibility, and more flexible surfboards are typically more likely to break or lose their springiness over time.

[0005] Many surfboards have one or more stringers to increase the overall strength of the surfboard. However, these stringers also reduce the flexibility of the surfboard. Putting one stringer under the center of the board provides strength, but reduces flexibility along the center of the board, which can cause torsional flexing and slow down the surfboard. Some boards have two stringers, each close to the rails of the surfboard. Two-stringer surfboards are typically stronger than one with one stringer, and the flexing comes from the center of a two-stringer surfboard. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] It is an object of the present invention to overcome or at least alleviate one or more of the above-mentioned problems with surfboards and / or to provide consumers with a useful or commercial choice.

[0007] In one aspect, the present invention broadly relates to a surfboard, The surfboard is A core, a first elongated spring member disposed adjacent a top surface of the core; a second elongated spring member disposed adjacent a lower surface of the core; Including, The first elongated spring member extends substantially from a nose portion of the surfboard to a tail portion of the surfboard.

[0008] Preferably, the core is made primarily of a foam material. Preferably, the core is a foam core. Preferably, the foam material is a polyurethane foam. In another embodiment, the foam is a polystyrene foam. Preferably, the polystyrene foam is an expanded polystyrene. Alternatively, the polystyrene foam may be an extruded polystyrene foam.

[0009] Preferably, the core includes a groove on its upper surface for receiving the first elongate spring member. Preferably, the groove on the upper surface is centrally located relative to the longitudinal axis of the surfboard. Preferably, the core includes a groove on its lower surface for receiving the second elongate spring member. Preferably, the groove on the lower surface is centrally located relative to the longitudinal axis of the surfboard.

[0010] Preferably, the grooves on the upper surface extend substantially from the nose portion of the surfboard to the tail portion of the surfboard. Preferably, the grooves on the lower surface extend substantially from the nose portion of the surfboard to the tail portion of the surfboard. Preferably, the grooves on the upper surface have a depth of substantially 1mm to 5mm. More preferably, the grooves on the upper surface have a depth of substantially 1mm to 3mm. Preferably, the grooves on the lower surface have a depth of substantially 1mm to 5mm. More preferably, the grooves on the lower surface have a depth of substantially 1mm to 3mm.

[0011] Preferably, the grooves on the upper surface have a width of substantially 30 mm to 200 mm. More preferably, the grooves on the upper surface have a width of substantially 40 mm to 80 mm. Preferably, the grooves on the lower surface have a width of substantially 30 mm to 200 mm. More preferably, the grooves on the lower surface have a width of substantially 40 mm to 80 mm.

[0012] Preferably, the grooves on the upper surface taper to or towards the nose of the surfboard. Preferably, the grooves on the lower surface taper to or towards the nose of the surfboard. Preferably, the grooves on the lower surface taper to or towards the tail of the surfboard. In one embodiment, the grooves on the upper surface taper to or towards the tail of the surfboard.

[0013] Preferably, the first elongated spring member is made of a resilient material. In one embodiment, the first elongated spring member is made of a glass fiber composite material. Preferably, the first elongated spring member is made of a glass fiber and resin composite material. In another embodiment, the elongated spring member is made of a carbon fiber composite material. Preferably, the elongated spring member is made of a carbon fiber and resin composite material.

[0014] Preferably, the first elongated spring member tapers from a thicker portion to a thinner portion towards the nose portion of the surfboard. Preferably, the first elongated spring member tapers from a thicker portion to a thinner portion towards the tail portion of the surfboard. Preferably, the first spring member has a width that is greater than the thickness of the first spring member. Preferably, the width is in the direction of the rails of the surfboard.

[0015] Preferably, the first elongated spring member has a thickness of substantially 1 mm to 5 mm, more preferably, the first elongated spring member has a thickness of substantially 1 mm to 3 mm.

[0016] Preferably, the first elongate spring member has a width substantially between 15mm and 200mm. Preferably, the first elongate spring member has a width substantially between 15mm and 80mm. More preferably, the first elongate spring member has a width substantially between 20mm and 40mm.

[0017] Preferably the first elongate spring member tapers up to or towards the nose portion of the surfboard.

[0018] Preferably, the first elongated spring member comprises a plurality of layers of elastic material. Preferably, the number of layers of elastic material defines a thickness of the first elongated spring member. Preferably, the number of layers of elastic material is greater in a central portion of the first elongated spring member compared to the first elongated spring member towards the nose portion of the surfboard and greater than the first elongated spring member towards the tail portion of the surfboard. Preferably, the plurality of layers of elastic material is between 2 and 8 layers of elastic material. More preferably, the plurality of layers of elastic material is between 4 and 6 layers of elastic material. Preferably, in use, an inner layer of elastic material towards the core is shorter than an outer layer of elastic material. Preferably, each layer of the plurality of layers of elastic material has a different length. Preferably, the plurality of layers are bonded together to form the first elongated spring member. More preferably, the plurality of layers are bonded together using epoxy to form the first elongated spring member. Preferably, the thin portion of the first elongate spring member is less than 50% thicker than the thick portion of the first elongate spring member. Preferably, the thin portion comprises 1-2 layers of elastic material. Preferably, the thick portion comprises 4-6 layers of elastic material.

[0019] In one embodiment, the first elongate spring member is pre-tensioned. Preferably, the first elongate spring member is pre-tensioned in a first direction. Preferably, the first elongate spring member is biased to bend away from the core. Alternatively, the first elongate spring member is pre-tensioned in a second direction and biased to bend towards the core.

[0020] Preferably, the first elongate spring member is formed within a groove in the top surface of the core. Alternatively, the first elongate spring member is press fit into the core to create a groove in the top surface of the core.

[0021] Preferably, the second elongated spring member is made of an elastic material. Preferably, the second elongated spring member is made of a fiber and resin composite material. Preferably, the fibers are substantially oriented. Preferably, the fibers are substantially oriented in the longitudinal direction of the surfboard. In one embodiment, the second elongated spring member is made of a glass fiber composite material. Preferably, the second elongated spring member is made of a glass fiber and resin composite material. In another embodiment, the second elongated spring member is made of a carbon fiber composite material. Preferably, the second elongated spring member is made of a carbon fiber and resin composite material.

[0022] Preferably, the second elongated spring member tapers from a thicker portion to a thinner portion towards the nose portion of the surfboard. Preferably, the second elongated spring member tapers from a thicker portion to a thinner portion towards the tail portion of the surfboard. Preferably, the second spring member has a width that is greater than the thickness of the second spring member. Preferably, the width is in the direction of the rails of the surfboard.

[0023] Preferably, the second elongated spring member has a thickness of substantially 1 mm to 5 mm, more preferably, the second elongated spring member has a thickness of substantially 1 mm to 3 mm.

[0024] Preferably, the second elongate spring member has a width substantially between 15mm and 200mm. Preferably, the second elongate spring member has a width substantially between 15mm and 80mm. More preferably, the second elongate spring member has a width substantially between 20mm and 40mm.

[0025] Preferably the second elongate spring member tapers to or towards the nose portion of the surfboard.Preferably the second elongate spring member tapers to or towards the tail portion of the surfboard.

[0026] Preferably, the second elongate spring member comprises a plurality of layers of elastic material. Preferably, the number of layers of elastic material defines a thickness of the second elongate spring member. Preferably, the number of layers of elastic material is greater in a central portion of the second elongate spring member compared to the second elongate spring member towards the nose portion of the surfboard and greater than the second elongate spring member towards the tail portion of the surfboard. Preferably, the plurality of layers of elastic material is between 2 and 8 layers of elastic material. More preferably, the plurality of layers of elastic material is between 4 and 6 layers of elastic material. Preferably, in use, an inner layer of elastic material towards the core is shorter than an outer layer of elastic material. Preferably, each layer of the plurality of layers of elastic material has a different length. Preferably, the plurality of layers are bonded together to form the second elongate spring member. More preferably, the plurality of layers are bonded together using epoxy to form the second elongate spring member. Preferably, the thin portion of the second elongate spring member is less than 50% thicker than the thicker portion of the second elongate spring member. Preferably, the thin portion comprises 1-2 layers of elastic material. Preferably, the thicker portion comprises 4-6 layers of elastic material.

[0027] In one embodiment, the second elongate spring member is pre-tensioned. Preferably, the second elongate spring member is pre-tensioned in a first direction. Preferably, the second elongate spring member is biased to bend towards the core. Alternatively, the first elongate spring member is pre-tensioned in a second direction and biased to bend away from the core.

[0028] Preferably, the second elongate spring member is formed within a groove in the underside of the core. Alternatively, the second elongate spring member is press fit into the core to create a groove in the underside of the core.

[0029] Preferably, the first and second elongate spring members are spaced apart from one another by the core. In another embodiment, the first and second elongate spring members are connected by one or more connecting members.

[0030] Preferably, the surfboard includes a shell layer. Preferably, the shell layer substantially covers the core. Preferably, the shell layer substantially covers the first elongated spring member. Preferably, the shell layer substantially covers the second elongated spring member. It will be appreciated that the shell layer may also be referred to as a skin layer. Preferably, the shell layer comprises a composite material of glass fiber and resin. Alternatively or additionally, the shell layer may comprise a composite material of carbon fiber and resin. Preferably, the shell layer is bonded to the core. Preferably, the shell layer is bonded to the first elongated spring member. Preferably, the shell member is bonded to the second elongated spring member.

[0031] Preferably, the length of the surfboard is between 170cm and 260cm. More preferably, the length of the surfboard is between 180cm and 210cm. Preferably, the surfboard has a partially concave underside. Preferably, the surfboard has a partially convex upper side.

[0032] In another aspect, the present invention broadly relates to a surfboard, The surfboard is A core, a first elongated spring member disposed adjacent a top surface of the core; Including, The first elongated spring member extends substantially from a nose portion of the surfboard to a tail portion of the surfboard, and the first elongated spring member has a width that is greater than a thickness of the first elongated spring member.

[0033] Preferably the width is in the direction of the rails of the surfboard.

[0034] Preferably, the surfboard further includes a second elongated spring member disposed adjacent the lower surface of the core.

[0035] In a further aspect, the present invention broadly resides in a method of manufacturing a surfboard, comprising: The method of manufacturing a surfboard is forming a foam core; forming a groove in a top surface of the foam core extending from a tail portion of the surfboard to a nose portion of the surfboard; inserting a first elongated spring member into the groove in the top surface of the foam core such that the first elongated spring member is adjacent to the top surface of the core; covering the foam core and the first elongated spring member with a shell layer; Includes.

[0036] Preferably, the method further includes forming a groove in an underside of the foam core, the groove extending from a tail portion of the surfboard to a nose portion of the surfboard. Preferably, the method further includes inserting a second elongated spring member into the groove in the underside of the foam core and disposing the second elongated spring member adjacent the underside of the core.

[0037] Preferably, the step of inserting the first elongate spring member into the groove in the top surface of the foam core includes forming the first elongate spring member into the groove in the top surface of the foam core.

[0038] Preferably, the step of inserting the second elongate spring member into the groove in the underside of the foam core includes forming the second elongate spring member into the groove in the underside of the foam core.

[0039] Preferably, the step of covering the foam core and the first elongate spring member with a shell layer includes covering a second elongate spring member with a shell layer.

[0040] Preferably the surfboard is a surfboard as described herein.

[0041] In another aspect, the present invention broadly relates to a surfboard, The surfboard is A core, a second elongated spring member disposed adjacent a lower surface of the core; Including, The second elongated spring member extends substantially from a nose portion of the surfboard to a tail portion of the surfboard, the second elongated spring member having a width that is greater than a thickness of the second elongated spring member.

[0042] Preferably, the width is in the direction of the rails of the surfboard.Preferably, the surfboard further includes a first elongated spring member disposed adjacent the top surface of the core.

[0043] In one embodiment, the surfboard is a paddle board.

[0044] In a further aspect, the present invention broadly relates to a surfboard, The surfboard is A core, an elongated spring member substantially centrally disposed with respect to the core; Including, The elongated spring member extends substantially from the nose portion of the surfboard to the tail portion of the surfboard.

[0045] Preferably, the core is made primarily of a foam material. Preferably, the core is a foam core. Preferably, the foam material is a polyurethane foam. In another embodiment, the foam is a polystyrene foam. Preferably, the polystyrene foam is an expanded polystyrene foam. Alternatively, the polystyrene foam may be an extruded polystyrene foam.

[0046] Preferably, the core comprises two body portions. Preferably, the two body portions are spaced apart from one another. The elongated spring member is preferably disposed between the two body portions. Preferably, the two body portions are symmetrical about the elongated spring member.

[0047] Preferably, the elongated spring member is centrally located relative to the longitudinal axis of the surfboard.

[0048] Preferably, the elongate spring member comprises a plurality of layers of elastic material. Preferably, the number of layers of elastic material defines a thickness of the elongate spring member. Preferably, the number of layers of elastic material is greater in a central portion of the elongate spring member compared to a portion of the elongate spring member towards the nose of the surfboard. Preferably, the number of layers of elastic material is greater in a central portion of the elongate spring member compared to a portion of the elongate spring member towards the tail of the surfboard. Preferably, the plurality of layers is between 2 and 12 layers of elastic material. More preferably, the plurality of layers is between 4 and 10 layers of elastic material.

[0049] Preferably, multiple layers of elastic material are bonded together to form the elongated spring member. More preferably, multiple layers of elastic material are bonded together using epoxy to form the elongated spring member. Preferably, the thin portion of the elongated spring member is less than 50% thicker than the thicker portion of the elongated spring member. Preferably, the thin portion is 1-2 layers of elastic material. Preferably, the thicker portion is 4-10 layers of elastic material.

[0050] Preferably, the plurality of layers of the elongate spring member are made of a resilient material. In one embodiment, the plurality of layers are made of a fiberglass composite material. Preferably, the plurality of layers are made of a fiberglass resin composite material. In another embodiment, the plurality of layers are made of a carbon fiber composite material. Preferably, the plurality of layers are made of a carbon fiber resin composite material. Preferably, the fibers are substantially oriented. Preferably, the fibers are substantially oriented in the longitudinal direction of the surfboard.

[0051] Preferably the elongated spring member is part of a spring assembly. Preferably the spring assembly includes an upper portion and a lower portion. Preferably the upper portion and lower portion are at least partially spaced apart from each other by the elongated spring member.

[0052] Preferably, the top is made primarily of a foam material. Preferably, the foam material is polyurethane foam. In another embodiment, the foam is polystyrene foam. Preferably, the polystyrene foam is expanded polystyrene foam. Alternatively, the polystyrene foam may be extruded polystyrene foam.

[0053] Preferably, the upper portion has a thickness of substantially 5 mm to 100 mm. Preferably, the upper portion has a thickness of substantially 10 mm to 80 mm. More preferably, the upper portion has a thickness of substantially 20 mm to 50 mm.

[0054] Preferably, the lower portion is made primarily of a foam material. Preferably, the foam material is polyurethane foam. In another embodiment, the foam is polystyrene foam. Preferably, the polystyrene foam is expanded polystyrene foam. Alternatively, the polystyrene foam may be extruded polystyrene foam.

[0055] Preferably, the lower portion has a thickness of substantially 5 mm to 100 mm. Preferably, the lower portion has a thickness of substantially 5 mm to 50 mm. More preferably, the lower portion has a thickness of substantially 10 mm to 20 mm.

[0056] Preferably, each layer of the plurality of layers of elastic material of the elongate spring member has a different length. Preferably, in use, the layer of elastic material towards the bottom is shorter than the layer of elastic material towards the top. Preferably, the length of each layer of the plurality of layers of elastic material is substantially between 100mm and 1800mm. More preferably, the length of each layer of the plurality of layers of elastic material is substantially between 250mm and 1650mm.

[0057] Preferably the elongate spring member tapers from a thicker portion to a thinner portion towards the nose of the surfboard. Preferably the elongate spring member tapers from a thicker portion to a thinner portion towards the tail of the surfboard. Preferably the elongate spring member tapers at or towards the nose of the surfboard.

[0058] Preferably, the elongate spring member has a width substantially between 15mm and 200mm. Preferably, the elongate spring member has a width substantially between 15mm and 80mm. More preferably, the elongate spring member has a width substantially between 20mm and 40mm.

[0059] In one embodiment, the elongate spring member is pre-tensioned. Preferably, the elongate spring member is pre-tensioned in a first direction. Preferably, the elongate spring member is biased to bend upwards in use. In another embodiment, the elongate spring member is pre-tensioned in a second direction. Preferably, the elongate spring member is biased to bend downwards in use.

[0060] Preferably, the surfboard includes a shell layer. Preferably, the shell layer substantially covers the core. Preferably, the shell layer substantially covers the spring assembly. It will be appreciated that the shell layer may also be referred to as a skin layer. Preferably, the shell layer comprises a composite material of glass fiber and resin. Alternatively or additionally, the shell layer may comprise a composite material of carbon fiber and resin. Preferably, the shell layer is bonded to the core. Preferably, the shell layer is bonded to the spring assembly.

[0061] Preferably, the length of the surfboard is between 170cm and 260cm. More preferably, the length of the surfboard is between 180cm and 210cm. Preferably, the surfboard has a partially concave underside. Preferably, the surfboard has a partially convex upper side.

[0062] In another aspect, the present invention broadly resides in a spring assembly for a surfboard, comprising: The spring assembly for a surfboard comprises: An elongated spring member; an upper portion and a lower portion spaced apart from one another at least partially by the elongated spring member; In use, the spring assembly is substantially centrally located on the surfboard.

[0063] Preferably, the spring assembly extends substantially from the nose portion of the surfboard to the tail portion of the surfboard.

[0064] Preferably, the elongate spring member comprises a plurality of layers of elastic material. Preferably, the number of layers of elastic material defines a thickness of the elongate spring member. Preferably, the number of layers of elastic material is greater in a central portion of the elongate spring member compared to a portion of the elongate spring member towards the nose of the surfboard. Preferably, the number of layers of elastic material is greater in a central portion of the elongate spring member compared to a portion of the elongate spring member towards the tail of the surfboard. Preferably, the plurality of layers is between 2 and 12 layers of elastic material. More preferably, the plurality of layers is between 4 and 10 layers of elastic material.

[0065] Preferably, multiple layers of elastic material are bonded together to form the elongated spring member. More preferably, multiple layers of elastic material are bonded together using epoxy to form the elongated spring member. Preferably, the thin portion of the elongated spring member is less than 50% thicker than the thicker portion of the elongated spring member. Preferably, the thin portion comprises 1-2 layers of elastic material. Preferably, the thicker portion comprises 4-10 layers of elastic material.

[0066] Preferably, the layers of the elongate spring member are made of a resilient material. In one embodiment, the layers are made of a fiberglass composite material. Preferably, the layers are made of a fiberglass resin composite material. In another embodiment, the layers are made of a carbon fiber composite material. Preferably, the layers are made of a carbon fiber resin composite material. Preferably, the fibers are substantially oriented. Preferably, the fibers are substantially oriented in the longitudinal direction of the surfboard.

[0067] Preferably, the top is made primarily of a foam material. Preferably, the foam material is polyurethane foam. In another embodiment, the foam is polystyrene foam. Preferably, the polystyrene foam is expanded polystyrene foam. Alternatively, the polystyrene foam may be extruded polystyrene foam.

[0068] Preferably, the upper portion has a thickness of substantially 5 mm to 100 mm. Preferably, the upper portion has a thickness of substantially 10 mm to 80 mm. More preferably, the upper portion has a thickness of substantially 20 mm to 50 mm.

[0069] Preferably, the lower portion is made primarily of a foam material. Preferably, the foam material is polyurethane foam. In another embodiment, the foam is polystyrene foam. Preferably, the polystyrene foam is expanded polystyrene foam. Alternatively, the polystyrene foam may be extruded polystyrene foam.

[0070] Preferably, the lower portion has a thickness of substantially 5 mm to 100 mm. Preferably, the lower portion has a thickness of substantially 5 mm to 50 mm. More preferably, the lower portion has a thickness of substantially 10 mm to 20 mm.

[0071] Preferably, each layer of the plurality of layers of elastic material of the elongate spring member has a different length. Preferably, in use, the layer of elastic material towards the bottom is shorter than the layer of elastic material towards the top. Preferably, the length of each layer of the plurality of layers of elastic material is substantially between 100mm and 1800mm. More preferably, the length of each layer of the plurality of layers of elastic material is substantially between 250mm and 1650mm.

[0072] Preferably the elongate spring member tapers from a thicker portion to a thinner portion towards the nose of the surfboard. Preferably the elongate spring member tapers from a thicker portion to a thinner portion towards the tail of the surfboard. Preferably the elongate spring member tapers at or towards the nose of the surfboard.

[0073] Preferably, the elongate spring member has a width substantially between 15mm and 200mm. Preferably, the elongate spring member has a width substantially between 15mm and 80mm. More preferably, the elongate spring member has a width substantially between 20mm and 40mm.

[0074] Preferably, the spring assembly has the same thickness as the attachment portion of the foam core of the surfboard.

[0075] In one embodiment, the elongate spring member is pre-tensioned. Preferably, the elongate spring member is pre-tensioned in a first direction. Preferably, the elongate spring member is biased to bend upwards in use. In another embodiment, the elongate spring member is pre-tensioned in a second direction. Preferably, the elongate spring member is biased to bend downwards in use.

[0076] In a further aspect, the present invention broadly resides in a method of manufacturing a surfboard, comprising: The method of manufacturing a surfboard is placing a spring assembly between two body portions of a surfboard core; forming said two body portions to form said surfboard core; covering the spring assembly and the surfboard core with a shell layer; Includes.

[0077] Preferably, the step of disposing the spring assembly between the two body portions of the surfboard core is completed prior to molding of the surfboard core. Alternatively, the step of disposing the spring assembly between the two body portions of the surfboard core is completed after molding of the surfboard core.

[0078] Preferably, the method further comprises the step of molding the spring assembly to fit a surfboard core.

[0079] Preferably, the spring assembly is a spring assembly as described herein.

[0080] Preferably the surfboard is a surfboard as described herein.

[0081] In one embodiment, the surfboard is a paddle board.

[0082] Features described with respect to one aspect also apply where applicable to all other aspects of the invention. Moreover, different combinations of the described features may be described and claimed herein, even if not explicitly stated otherwise. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0083] In order that the present invention may be more readily understood, reference is now made to the accompanying drawings, in which a preferred embodiment of the invention is shown. [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a plan perspective view of a surfboard according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view of the surfboard of FIG. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a top view of the surfboard of FIG. [Figure 4]FIG. 4 is a bottom view of the surfboard of FIG. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the surfboard of FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is an exploded cross-sectional view of the surfboard of FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional perspective view of a surfboard according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the surfboard of FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a top view of the surfboard of FIG. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is an exploded view of the surfboard of FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the surfboard of FIG. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is an exploded cross-sectional view of a spring assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a side view of the spring assembly of FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0084] 1-6, a surfboard 10 is shown. The surfboard 10 has a foamed polyurethane core 12. A first elongated spring member 14 is disposed adjacent a top surface 16 of the core 12. The first elongated spring member 14 is made of multiple layers of oriented carbon fiber and resin (best seen in FIG. 6). A second elongated spring member 18 is disposed adjacent a bottom surface 20 of the core 12. The second elongated spring member 18 is made of multiple layers of oriented carbon fiber and resin (best seen in FIG. 6).

[0085] The first elongated spring member 14 extends from the nose portion 22 of the surfboard to the tail portion 24 of the surfboard 10. The first elongated spring member 14 is disposed within a groove 26 centrally located in the top surface 16 of the surfboard 10 (groove 26 is shown in FIG. 5 with the first elongated spring member 14 removed for clarity). The first elongated spring member 14 is formed within groove 26 during manufacture of the surfboard 10.

[0086] The first elongated spring member 14 has a width (in the direction of the rails 30, 32) that is greater than the thickness (depth) of the first elongated spring member 14.

[0087] The second elongated spring member 18 extends from the nose portion 22 of the surfboard to the tail portion 24 of the surfboard 10. The second elongated spring member 18 is disposed within a groove 28 centrally located in the underside 20 of the surfboard 10 (groove 28 is shown in FIG. 5 with the second elongated spring member 18 removed for clarity). The second elongated spring member 18 is formed within groove 28 during manufacture of the surfboard 10.

[0088] The second elongated spring member 18 has a width (in the direction of the rails 30, 32) that is greater than the thickness (depth) of the second elongated spring member 18.

[0089] The surfboard 10 includes a shell layer 34 that covers the core 12, the first elongated spring member 14, and the second elongated spring member 18. The shell layer 34 is formed from a composite material of fiberglass and resin.

[0090] The surfboard also includes a number of fin boxes 40, 42, 44. The fin boxes 40, 42, 44 are inserted into the core 12 before the shell layer 34 covers the core 12.

[0091] 7-11, there is shown a surfboard 110 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The surfboard 110 has an expanded polyurethane foam core 112. A spring assembly 114 is centrally located relative to the core 112.

[0092] The core 112 includes two body portions 116, 118. The spring assembly 114 is centrally disposed between the two body portions 116, 118.

[0093] The spring assembly 114 extends from a nose portion 128 of the surfboard 110 to a tail portion 130 of the surfboard 110. The spring assembly 114 is formed prior to the molding of the surfboard 110.

[0094] The spring assembly 114 includes an elongated spring member 120 made of oriented carbon fiber and resin, an upper portion 124, and a lower portion 126. The upper portion 124 and lower portion 126 are made of expanded polystyrene.

[0095] The surfboard 110 includes a shell layer 132 that covers the two body portions 116, 118 of the core 112 and the spring assembly 114. The shell layer 132 is formed from a composite material of fiberglass and resin.

[0096] The surfboard 110 also includes one or more fin boxes (not shown), which are inserted into the core 112 and / or the spring assembly 114.

[0097] 12, an exploded cross-sectional view of a spring assembly 214 according to one embodiment of the present invention is shown. The spring assembly 214 includes an elongated spring member 220, an upper portion 224, and a lower portion 226.

[0098] The elongated spring member 220 includes a plurality of layers 222. The layers 222 are made of oriented carbon fiber and resin. The layers 222 are bonded together to form the elongated spring member 220.

[0099] The number of layers 222 defines the thickness of the elongated spring member 220. The number of layers 222 is greater in a central portion of the elongated spring member 220 than in the elongated spring member 220 towards the nose portion of the surfboard (not shown), which is greater than in the elongated spring member 220 towards the tail portion of the surfboard.

[0100] Each layer 222 of the elongated spring member 220 has a different length. As shown in FIG.

[0101] Referring to Figure 13, there is shown a side view of the spring assembly 214 of Figure 12. Upper and lower portions 224 and 226 are spaced apart from one another by an elongated spring member 220.

[0102] Advantages of the preferred embodiment of the surfboard include providing a desired flexibility while increasing longitudinal strength. Another advantage of the preferred embodiment of the surfboard includes the ability to control the amount and location of deflection by positioning multiple layers of the first and / or second elongated spring members in desired locations during manufacturing of the surfboard. A further advantage of the preferred embodiment of the surfboard includes reduced torsional deflection compared to a surfboard having one centrally located stringer. Another advantage of the preferred embodiment of the surfboard includes the ability to control the amount of deflection by positioning multiple layers of the elongated spring members. A further advantage of the preferred embodiment of the surfboard includes the spring assembly may be formed before or after molding of the surfboard.

[0103] The foregoing has been given as illustrative of the present invention; however, all other modifications and variations which would be apparent to a person skilled in the art are deemed to fall within the broad scope and sphere of the invention as defined herein.

[0104] Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the word "comprise" and variations of that word, such as "comprises" and "comprising" are used. , is not intended to exclude other additives, ingredients, integers, or steps.

Claims

1. The surfboard is A core, a first elongated spring member disposed adjacent a top surface of the core; a second elongated spring member disposed adjacent a lower surface of the core; Including, the first elongated spring member and the second elongated spring member are pre-tensioned; the first elongated spring member is disposed within a groove in the upper surface of the core and the second elongated spring member is disposed within a groove in the lower surface of the core; the first elongated spring member extends from a nose portion of the surfboard to a tail portion of the surfboard; the second elongated spring member tapers to or toward the nose portion of the surfboard; each elongate spring member comprises a plurality of layers of elastic material, in use the plurality of layers of elastic material being joined together to form each elongate spring section, the number of layers of elastic material being greater in a central portion of the elongate spring member than in a portion of the elongate spring member towards the nose portion of the surfboard and greater than in a portion of the elongate spring member towards the tail portion of the surfboard; The layers of elastic material are disposed along a length of the surfboard; an inner layer of elastic material toward the core is shorter than an outer layer of elastic material; a surfboard having an increased layer of resilient material in a central portion of the surfboard, making the central portion of the surfboard more resilient than the ends of the surfboard and maintaining longitudinal strength of the surfboard.

2. The first elongated spring member has a width greater than a thickness of the first elongated spring member; 10. The surfboard of claim 1, wherein the second elongated spring member has a width that is greater than a thickness of the second elongated spring member.

3. 3. A surfboard as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein each elongated spring member is made from a carbon fibre composite material.

4. The method of manufacturing a surfboard forming a foam core; forming a groove in a top surface of the foam core extending from a tail portion of the surfboard to a nose portion of the surfboard; forming a groove in an underside of the foam core that tapers to or toward the nose portion of the surfboard; inserting a pre-tensioned first elongated spring member into the groove in the top surface of the foam core such that the first elongated spring member is positioned adjacent to the top surface of the foam core; inserting a second elongated spring member into the groove in the lower surface of the foam core such that the second elongated spring member is positioned adjacent the lower surface of the foam core; covering the foam core and the first elongated spring member with a shell layer; Including, each elongate spring member comprises a plurality of layers of elastic material, in use the plurality of layers of elastic material being joined together to form a respective elongate spring portion, the number of layers of elastic material being greater in a central portion of each elongate spring member than in a portion of each elongate spring member towards the nose portion of the surfboard and greater than in a portion of each elongate spring member towards the tail portion of the surfboard; The layers of elastic material are disposed along a length of the surfboard; an inner layer of elastic material toward the foam core is shorter than an outer layer of elastic material; A method of manufacturing a surfboard, wherein a central portion of the surfboard has an increased layer of the resilient material, making the central portion of the surfboard more resilient than the ends of the surfboard and maintaining longitudinal strength of the surfboard.

5. 5. The method of claim 4, wherein the surfboard is a surfboard as defined in any one of claims 1 to 3.

6. The surfboard is A core, an elongated spring member centrally disposed with respect to the core; Including, the elongated spring member being pre-tensioned; the elongated spring member extends from a nose portion of the surfboard to a tail portion of the surfboard; the elongated spring member is part of a spring assembly, the spring assembly including upper and lower portions spaced apart from one another at least partially by the elongated spring member, the spring assembly being disposed between two body portions of the core; the elongated spring member comprises a plurality of layers made of elastic material, in use the plurality of layers of elastic material are joined together to form the elongated spring member, the number of layers of elastic material being greater in a central portion of the elongated spring member than in a portion of the elongated spring member towards the nose portion of the surfboard and greater than in a portion of the elongated spring member towards the tail portion of the surfboard; The layers of elastic material are disposed along a length of the surfboard; an inner layer of elastic material toward the core is shorter than an outer layer of elastic material; a surfboard having an increased layer of resilient material in a central portion of the surfboard, making the central portion of the surfboard more resilient than the ends of the surfboard and maintaining longitudinal strength of the surfboard.

7. The spring assembly for a surfboard comprises: An elongated spring member; an upper portion and a lower portion spaced apart from one another at least partially by the elongated spring member; the elongated spring member being pre-tensioned; In use, the spring assembly is centrally positioned on the surfboard; the elongated spring member extends from a nose portion of the surfboard to a tail portion of the surfboard; the elongated spring member includes multiple layers of elastic material, the multiple layers of elastic material being bonded together to form the elongated spring member, the number of layers of elastic material being greater in a central portion of the elongated spring member than in a portion of the elongated spring member towards the nose portion of the surfboard and greater than in a portion of the elongated spring member towards the tail portion of the surfboard; The layers of elastic material are disposed along a length of the surfboard; an inner layer of elastic material toward the core is shorter than an outer layer of elastic material; A spring assembly for a surfboard, wherein the central portion of the surfboard has an increased layer of the elastic material, making the central portion of the surfboard more elastic than the ends of the surfboard and maintaining longitudinal strength of the surfboard.

8. The method of manufacturing a surfboard disposing a spring assembly including at least one pre-tensioned elongated spring member between two body portions of a surfboard core; molding the two body portions to form the surfboard core; covering the spring assembly and the surfboard core with a shell layer; Including, the elongated spring member extends from a nose portion of the surfboard to a tail portion of the surfboard; the elongated spring member includes a plurality of layers of elastic material, the number of layers of elastic material being greater in a central portion of the elongated spring member than in a portion of the elongated spring member towards the nose portion of the surfboard and greater than in a portion of the elongated spring member towards the tail portion of the surfboard; The layers of elastic material are disposed along a length of the surfboard; having an increased layer of resilient material in a central portion of the surfboard makes the central portion of the surfboard more resilient than the ends of the surfboard, thereby maintaining longitudinal strength of the surfboard; 8. A method of manufacturing a surfboard, wherein the spring assembly is the spring assembly of claim 7.

9. The method of claim 8 further comprising molding the spring assembly to fit the surfboard core.

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