Wax Coating System and Wax Coating Method

Abstract

To provide a wax coating system and a wax coating method which can efficiently coat a liquid wax onto a sliding surface of a sliding device.SOLUTION: A wax coating system includes: a conveyance device for conveying a sliding device for sliding on snow in a first direction; a tunnel for passing the sliding device conveyed by the conveyance device; a foreign matter removal device which is arranged in the tunnel and removes a foreign matter from the sliding surface of the sliding device; a wax coating device which is arranged in the tunnel, and coats a liquid wax onto the sliding surface of the sliding device; and a wiping tool which is arranged in the tunnel, and wipes off an excessive liquid wax attached to the sliding surface of the sliding device. The conveyance device includes a support member which allows a plate part of the sliding device to be mounted thereon, and moves in the first direction. The support member supports the plate part of the sliding device so that the sliding surface of the sliding device faces upward, and a longitudinal direction of the sliding device and the first direction are parallel to each other.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a wax application system and a wax application method.

Background Art

[0002] A wax application device for applying wax to the sliding surface of a ski board is known.

[0003] As a related technique, Patent Document 1 discloses a dry wax finishing device for ski equipment. The dry wax finishing device described in Patent Document 1 includes a moving device for placing and moving ski equipment, a drying unit arranged on a moving path moved by the moving device, and a wax application device arranged on the downstream side of the moving path from the drying unit.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide a wax application system and a wax application method capable of efficiently applying liquid wax to the sliding surface of a sliding device.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] Hereinafter, the means for solving the problems will be described using the numbers and symbols used in the embodiments for carrying out the invention. These numbers and symbols are added in parentheses for reference to show an example of the correspondence relationship between the description of the claims and the embodiments for carrying out the invention. Therefore, the claims should not be construed in a limited manner by the description in parentheses.

[0007] In some embodiments, a wax application system includes a conveying device (2) for conveying a sliding device (10) for sliding on snow in a first direction (DR1), a tunnel (4) through which the sliding device (10) conveyed by the conveying device (2) passes, a foreign matter removing device (5) disposed in the tunnel (4) for removing foreign matter from a sliding surface (12) of the sliding device (10), a wax application device (6) disposed in the tunnel (4) for applying liquid wax to the sliding surface (12) of the sliding device (10), and a wiper (7) disposed in the tunnel (4) for wiping off excess liquid wax adhering to the sliding surface (12) of the sliding device (10). The conveying device (2) includes a support member (21) on which a plate portion (11) of the sliding device (10) is placed and which moves in the first direction (DR1). The support member (21) supports the plate portion (11) of the sliding device (10) such that the sliding surface (12) of the sliding device (10) faces upward and the longitudinal direction of the sliding device (10) is parallel to the first direction (DR1).

[0008] In the above wax application system, the support member (21) may have a shape capable of supporting either a snowboard (10a) which is a type of the sliding device (10) or a ski board (10b) which is a type of the sliding device (10). Also, the wax application device (6) may be capable of applying liquid wax to either the snowboard (10a) or the ski board (10b).

[0009] In the above wax application system, the wiper (7) may include a first wiper (7a) capable of wiping off excess liquid wax adhering to a back surface (12a) of the snowboard (10a) and a second wiper (7b) capable of wiping off excess liquid wax adhering to a back surface (12b) of the ski board (10b).

[0010] In the above wax application system, the second wiper (7b) may be configured to cross between two brake arms (13) of the ski board (10b). Further, the second wiper (7b) may be contractible in the lateral direction.

[0011] The above wax application system may further include a first driving device (78) that moves the first wiper (7a) between a first extended position (P1) where it can contact the back surface (12a) of the snowboard (10a) and a first retracted position (P2) where it cannot contact the back surface (12b) of the ski board (10b). When the sliding device (10) conveyed by the conveying device (2) is the snowboard (10a), the first driving device (78) may extend the first wiper (7a) to the first extended position (P1). Also, when the sliding device (10) conveyed by the conveying device (2) is the ski board (10b), the first driving device (78) may retract the first wiper (7a) to the first retracted position (P2).

[0012] The above wax application system may further include a guide member (91) for correcting the position of the ski board (10b), and a second driving device (92) that moves the guide member (91) between a second extended position (P3) where it can contact the ski board (10b) and a second retracted position (P4) where it cannot contact the snowboard (10a). When the sliding device (10) conveyed by the conveying device (2) is the ski board (10b), the second driving device (92) may extend the guide member (91) to the second extended position (P3) where it can contact the ski board (10b). Also, when the sliding device (10) conveyed by the conveying device (2) is the snowboard (10a), the second driving device (92) may retract the guide member (91) to the second retracted position (P4) where it cannot contact the snowboard (10a).

[0013] The above wax application system may further include a sensor (94) for detecting the sliding tool (10), and a control device (95) that receives a signal from the sensor (94) and controls the first drive device (78) or the second drive device (92). The control device (95) may determine the type of the sliding tool (10) based on the signal received from the sensor (94). Further, the control device (95) may control the first drive device (78) or the second drive device (92) according to whether the type of the sliding tool (10) is the snowboard (10a) or the ski board (10b).

[0014] In the above wax application system, the support member (21) may have a plurality of cross members (22) extending in a direction intersecting the moving track of the sliding tool (10). Further, the plurality of cross members (22) may include a first cross member (22a) capable of supporting the front end side portion (111) of the plate portion (11) of the sliding tool (10), and a second cross member (22b) capable of supporting the rear end side portion (112) of the plate portion (11) of the sliding tool (10).

[0015] In the above wax application system, the conveying device (2) may include a moving device (30) for moving the support member (21). Each of the plurality of cross members (22) may be cantilever supported by the moving device (30). Each of the plurality of cross members (22) may have a first portion (221) supported by the moving device (30), a second portion (223) disposed on the second direction (DR2) side of the first portion (221) and supporting the plate portion (11) of the sliding tool (10), and a free end portion (225) disposed on the second direction (DR2) side of the second portion (223).

[0016] The above wax application system may further include a partition member (35) that prevents the flexible member (15) provided on the sliding device (10) from getting caught in the movable part (30n) of the moving device (30). Further, the partition member (35) may be arranged so as to partition a first region (AR1) in which the movable part (30n) of the moving device (30) is arranged and a second region (AR2) vertically below the moving track of the sliding device (10).

[0017] The above wax application system may further include a first transfer device (81) that transfers the sliding device (10) to the cross member (22). The first transfer device (81) may have a first support portion (82) that supports the sliding device (10). Further, the first transfer device (81) may be configured to approach the cross member (22) with the first support portion (82) that supports the sliding device (10) from the free end portion (225) side of the cross member (22).

[0018] In some embodiments, a wax application method includes a conveying step of conveying the sliding device (10) in a first direction (DR1) by moving a support member (21) that supports a plate portion (11) of the sliding device (10) for sliding on snow in the first direction (DR1); a foreign matter removing step of removing foreign matter from a sliding surface (12) of the sliding device (10) in a tunnel (4) using a foreign matter removing device (5) during execution of the conveying step; a wax application step of applying liquid wax to the sliding surface (12) of the sliding device (10) in the tunnel (4) using a wax application device (6) during execution of the conveying step; and a wiping step of wiping off excess liquid wax adhering to the sliding surface (12) of the sliding device (10) in the tunnel (4) using a wiping tool (7) during execution of the conveying step. The conveying step is executed in a state where the support member (21) supports the plate portion (11) of the sliding device (10) such that the sliding surface (12) of the sliding device (10) faces upward and the longitudinal direction of the sliding device (10) is parallel to the first direction (DR1).

Advantages of the Invention

[0019] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a wax application system and a wax application method capable of efficiently applying liquid wax to the sliding surface of a sliding device.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0020]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Figure 13

Figure 14

Figure 15

Figure 16

Figure 17

Figure 18

Figure 19

Figure 20

Figure 21

Figure 22

Figure 23

Figure 24

Figure 25

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0021] Hereinafter, with reference to the accompanying drawings, a wax application system 1 and a wax application method in an embodiment will be described. In the following description, members and parts having the same function are denoted by the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions of the members and parts denoted by the same reference numerals are omitted.

[0022] (Definition of directions) In this specification, the direction in which the skating implement 10 is conveyed by the conveying device 2 is defined as the "first direction DR1". In other words, the skating implement 10 is conveyed in the first direction DR1 by the conveying device 2.

[0023] In this specification, the direction perpendicular to the first direction DR1 is defined as the "second direction DR2". More specifically, the second direction DR2 is a direction perpendicular to both the first direction DR1 and the vertical direction. Also, in this specification, the direction opposite to the second direction DR2 is defined as the "third direction DR3". Further, in this specification, the "second direction DR2" and the "third direction DR3" are collectively referred to as the "lateral direction".

[0024] In this specification, the left side as viewed in plan view and along the first direction DR1 is defined as the "left side", and the right side as viewed in plan view and along the first direction DR1 is defined as the "right side".

[0025] (First embodiment) With reference to FIG. 1, an overview of the wax application system 1A in the first embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view schematically showing the wax application system 1A in the first embodiment. Note that in FIG. 1, a part of the tunnel 4 is not shown in order to enable understanding of the inside of the tunnel 4.

[0026] As illustrated in FIG. 1, the wax application system 1A includes a conveying device 2, a tunnel 4, a foreign matter removing device 5, a wax application device 6, and a wiping tool 7.

[0027] The conveying device 2 conveys the sliding implement 10 for sliding on snow in the first direction DR1. The conveying device 2 includes a support member 21 on which the plate portion 11 of the sliding implement 10 is placed, and the support member 21 moves in the first direction DR1. In this case, the sliding implement 10 moves in the first direction DR1 together with the support member 21 while being placed on the support member 21. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the sliding implement 10 is a snowboard 10a. Alternatively, the sliding implement 10 may be a ski board.

[0028] A part of the movement path of the sliding implement 10 (and a part of the movement track of the support member 21) is arranged in the tunnel 4. In other words, the sliding implement 10 conveyed by the conveying device 2 is configured to pass through the tunnel 4. The tunnel 4 has an entrance 4a for the sliding implement 10 to enter the tunnel 4 and an exit 4b for the sliding implement 10 to exit the tunnel 4. Inside the tunnel 4, a foreign matter removing device 5, a wax applying device 6, and a wiping tool 7 are arranged.

[0029] The foreign matter removing device 5 removes foreign matter from the sliding surface 12 of the sliding implement 10. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the foreign matter removing device 5 includes an air nozzle 51 that blows air toward the sliding surface 12 of the sliding implement 10. The foreign matter removed from the sliding surface 12 of the sliding implement 10 may be snow or mud.

[0030] The wax applying device 6 applies liquid wax to the sliding surface 12 of the sliding implement 10. By the wax applying device 6 applying liquid wax to the sliding surface 12 of the sliding implement 10, the liquid wax adheres to the sliding surface 12. In this specification, the liquid wax includes also a mist-like wax in which the liquid wax is in a particulate state. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the wax applying device 6 includes a spray nozzle 61 that sprays liquid wax toward the sliding surface 12 of the sliding implement 10.

[0031] The wiper 7 wipes off the excess liquid wax adhering to the sliding surface 12 of the sliding implement 10. More specifically, after the liquid wax is applied by the wax application device 6, if excess liquid wax adheres to a part of the sliding surface 12, the wiper 7 wipes off the excess liquid wax from the sliding surface 12. Further, when the amount of liquid wax adhering to another part of the sliding surface 12 is insufficient, the wiper 7 moves the liquid wax to the other part. Thus, the amount of wax applied on the sliding surface 12 is made uniform.

[0032] In the first embodiment, the support member 21 of the conveying device 2 supports the plate portion 11 of the sliding implement 10 such that the sliding surface 12 of the sliding implement 10 faces upward and the longitudinal direction of the sliding implement 10 is parallel to the first direction DR1. Needless to say, in this specification, some deviation is allowed with respect to "parallel". In other words, "parallel" is not limited to geometrically perfect parallel, and "parallel" includes substantial parallel.

[0033] With the sliding surface 12 facing upward, the plate portion 11 of the sliding implement 10 is supported by the support member 21, so that the liquid wax can be efficiently applied (more specifically, sprayed) from top to bottom.

[0034] Further, with the longitudinal direction of the sliding implement 10 being parallel to the first direction DR1, the plate portion 11 of the sliding implement 10 is supported by the support member 21, so that the wax application area SP (refer to the virtual cone indicated by the broken line in FIG. 1) by the wax application device 6 can be made compact. More specifically, the application area SP may be set to overlap the entire plate width of the plate portion 11 of the sliding implement 10. Since the plate width of the plate portion 11 is smaller than the total length of the plate portion 11, the application area SP can be made compact. Further, since the sliding implement 10 moves in the first direction DR1 (that is, a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction of the sliding implement 10) so as to cross the application area SP, the entire sliding surface 12 of the sliding implement 10 can be coated with liquid wax using the compact application area SP.

[0035] Moreover, since the application area SP is compact, the consumption of the liquid wax can be reduced. In other words, the amount of liquid wax wasted without adhering to the sliding surface 12 of the sliding device 10 can be reduced.

[0036] In the example shown in FIG. 1, the conveying device 2 conveys the sliding device 10 in the first direction DR1 with the front end side portion 111 of the sliding device 10 positioned in the first direction DR1 with respect to the rear end side portion 112 of the sliding device 10. Alternatively, the conveying device 2 may convey the sliding device 10 in the first direction DR1 with the rear end side portion 112 of the sliding device 10 positioned in the first direction DR1 with respect to the front end side portion 111 of the sliding device 10.

[0037] (Second Embodiment) With reference to FIGS. 4 to 6, an overview of the wax application system 1B in the second embodiment will be described. FIG. 4 is a schematic perspective view schematically showing the wax application system 1B in the second embodiment. FIG. 5 is a schematic perspective view schematically showing a part of the wax application system 1B in the second embodiment. FIG. 6 is a schematic perspective view schematically showing a part of the wax application system 1B in the second embodiment. In FIGS. 5 and 6, in order to understand the inside of the tunnel 4, a description of a part of the tunnel 4 is omitted.

[0038] As illustrated in FIG. 4, the wax application system 1B in the second embodiment includes: (1) a conveying device 2 that conveys a sliding device 10 for sliding on snow in a first direction DR1; and (2) a tunnel 4 through which the sliding device 10 conveyed by the conveying device 2 passes. Also, as illustrated in FIG. 5, the wax application system 1B includes: (3) a foreign matter removing device 5 disposed in the tunnel 4 for removing foreign matter from the sliding surface 12 of the sliding device 10; (4) a wax application device 6 disposed in the tunnel 4 for applying liquid wax to the sliding surface 12 of the sliding device 10; and (5) a wiping tool 7 disposed in the tunnel 4 for wiping off excess liquid wax adhering to the sliding surface 12 of the sliding device 10. As illustrated in FIG. 6, (6) the conveying device 2 includes a support member 21 on which the plate portion 11 of the sliding device 10 is placed and that moves in the first direction DR1. (7) The support member 21 supports the plate portion 11 of the sliding device 10 such that the sliding surface 12 of the sliding device 10 faces upward and the longitudinal direction of the sliding device 10 is parallel to the first direction DR1.

[0039] Therefore, the second embodiment has the same effects as the first embodiment.

[0040] Next, with reference to FIGS. 1 to 24, the first embodiment or any additional configuration that can be adopted in the second embodiment will be described. FIGS. 1 to 3 are schematic perspective views schematically showing the wax application system 1A in the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a schematic perspective view schematically showing the wax application system 1B in the second embodiment. FIGS. 5 and 6 are schematic perspective views schematically showing a part of the wax application system 1B in the second embodiment. FIG. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view schematically showing a part of the wax application system 1B in the second embodiment. FIG. 8 is a view schematically showing a state in which the cross member 22 is cantilever supported. FIG. 9 is a view schematically showing a part of the wax application system in the comparative example. FIG. 10 is a schematic side view schematically showing the wax application system 1B in the second embodiment. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line A-A in FIG. 10. FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line B-B in FIG. 10. FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line C-C in FIG. 10. FIG. 14 is a view schematically showing a state in which the first wiper 7a automatically moves in the vertical direction following the undulations of the back surface 12a of the snowboard 10a. FIG. 15 is a view schematically showing a state in which the second wiper 7b automatically moves in the vertical direction following the undulations of the back surface 12b of the ski board 10b. FIG. 16 is a view showing an example of the relationship between the width W2 of the second wiper 7b and the width W1 of the first wiper 7a. FIG. 17 is a view schematically showing a state in which the second wiper 7b can contract in the width direction. FIG. 18 is a view schematically showing a state in which the first wiper 7a can be retracted. FIG. 19 is a view schematically showing a state in which the ski board 10b is laterally position-corrected by the guide member 91. FIG. 20 is a view schematically showing a state in which the guide member 91 can be retracted. FIG. 21 is a view schematically showing a state in which the first drive device 78 that moves the first wiper 7a is controlled by the control device 95. FIG. 22 is a view schematically showing a state in which the second drive device 92 that moves the guide member 91 is controlled by the control device 95. FIG. 23 is a view schematically showing a state in which the first support portion 82 of the first transfer device 81 approaches from the free end portion 225 side of the cross member 22.FIG. 24 is a diagram schematically showing a state in which the third support portion 87 of the second transfer device 86 approaches from the free end portion 225 side of the cross member 22.

[0041] (Wax application system 1) In the example described in FIG. 2, the wax application system 1 can apply wax to both a snowboard 10a which is a kind of sliding device 10 and a ski board 10b which is a kind of sliding device 10. More specifically, in the example described in FIG. 2 (or FIG. 5), the support member 21 has a shape capable of supporting both the snowboard 10a and the ski board 10b.

[0042] Alternatively, the wax application system 1 may be a wax application system dedicated to snowboards or a wax application system dedicated to ski boards.

[0043] The conveying device 2 of the wax application system 1 preferably can convey a plurality of snowboards 10a and a plurality of ski boards 10b toward the tunnel 4 in a random order (in other words, an irregular order). For example, as illustrated in FIG. 2, a plurality of sliding devices 10 may be conveyed by the conveying device 2 in the order of a snowboard 10a, a ski board 10b, and a snowboard 10a, and as illustrated in FIG. 3, a plurality of sliding devices 10 may be conveyed by the conveying device 2 in the order of a snowboard 10a, a snowboard 10a, and a ski board 10b.

[0044] In the example described in FIG. 4, the wax application system 1 has a first transfer area T1 where the sliding device 10 is transferred to the conveying device 2 and a second transfer area T2 where the sliding device 10 is taken out from the conveying device 2. The first transfer area T1 and the second transfer area T2 are exposed outside the tunnel 4. The conveying device 2 conveys the sliding device 10 from the first transfer area T1 toward the area inside the tunnel 4 and conveys the sliding device 10 from the area inside the tunnel 4 toward the second transfer area T2.

[0045] (Support member 21) In the example described in FIG. 2 (or FIG. 6), the support member 21 has a plurality of cross members 22 extending in a direction intersecting the movement track OB1 of the sliding device 10 (more specifically, the second direction DR2). The plurality of cross members 22 include a first cross member 22a and a second cross member 22b. The first cross member 22a can support the front end side portion 111 of the plate portion 11 of the sliding device 10, and the second cross member 22b can support the rear end side portion 112 of the plate portion 11 of the sliding device 10.

[0046] In the example described in FIG. 2 (or FIG. 6), the binding 14 of the sliding device 10 can project below the first cross member 22a and the second cross member 22b through the gap G1 between the first cross member 22a and the second cross member 22b. In this case, when the first cross member 22a and the second cross member 22b support the plate portion 11 of the sliding device 10, the binding 14 does not get in the way.

[0047] In the example described in FIG. 2 (or FIG. 6), the first cross member 22a is a first rod member 220a extending in a direction intersecting the movement track OB1 of the sliding device 10 (more specifically, the second direction DR2). The second cross member 22b is a second rod member 220b extending in a direction intersecting the movement track OB1 of the sliding device 10 (more specifically, the second direction DR2). When the support member 21 for supporting the sliding device 10 is constituted by a plurality of rod members (220a, 220b), the structure of the support member 21 can be simplified. When the plate portion 11 of the sliding device 10 is supported only by two rod members (220a, 220b), the plate portion 11 with undulations (in other words, the plate portion 11 curved along the longitudinal direction) is supported only at two locations in the front and rear. Therefore, the plate portion 11 of the sliding device 10 is stably supported in a state where rattling is suppressed (if necessary, refer to FIG. 14).

[0048] In the example shown in FIG. 2, the support member 21 supports the plate portion 11 of the sliding device 10 from below without holding the plate portion 11 of the sliding device 10 during the entire conveyance period of the sliding device 10 by the conveyance device 2. In this case, since there is no need to provide a mechanism for fixing the plate portion 11 to the support member 21, the structure of the support member 21 can be simplified.

[0049] In the example shown in FIG. 3, a set S composed of a first cross member 22a and a second cross member 22b is arranged at equal intervals with an interval L1 along the movement track of the plurality of cross members 22. The interval L1 between two sets S may be larger or smaller than the interval L2 between the first cross member 22a and the second cross member 22b. Also, the interval L1 between two sets S may be equal to the interval L2 between the first cross member 22a and the second cross member 22b (in other words, all the cross members 22 may be arranged at equal intervals along the movement track of the plurality of cross members 22).

[0050] As illustrated in FIG. 7, a recess 22d capable of receiving the plate portion 11b of the ski plate 10b may be provided on the upper surface of each of the plurality of cross members 22. The recess 22d prevents the ski plate 10b from being largely displaced in a direction intersecting the first direction DR1. The width W3 of the recess 22d in the direction along the second direction DR2 may be set to a size capable of receiving the plate portion 11b of the ski plate 10b and incapable of receiving the plate portion 11a of the snowboard 10a. Also, when the plurality of cross members 22 support two ski plates 10b arranged in parallel, two recesses 22d capable of receiving the plate portions 11b of the two ski plates 10b may be provided on the upper surface of each of the plurality of cross members 22.

[0051] (Moving device 30) In the example shown in FIG. 7, the conveyance device 2 includes a moving device 30 that moves the support member 21. The moving device 30 moves the support member 21 in the first direction DR1. The moving device 30 includes, for example, at least one endless member 31 that moves along the circular track OB2, and a driving device 33 that moves the at least one endless member 31.

[0052] In the example described in FIG. 7, the endless member 31 is an endless chain, and the drive device 33 includes a motor 331 that moves the endless chain and a power transmission mechanism 332 (for example, a shaft, a gear, a transmission belt, etc.) that transmits the drive of the motor 331 to the endless chain. In the example described in FIG. 7, at least one endless member 31 includes a first endless chain 31a and a second endless chain 31b. Further, the first endless chain 31a and the second endless chain 31b are arranged in parallel with each other with a predetermined interval W4 (for example, an interval of 10 cm or more) in the direction along the second direction DR2.

[0053] In the example described in FIG. 7, each of the plurality of cross members 22 is cantilever-supported by a moving device 30 (for example, a bracket 32 attached to the endless member 31). Each of the plurality of cross members 22 has a first portion 221, a second portion 223, and a free end portion 225.

[0054] The first portion 221 is supported by the moving device 30 (for example, the endless member 31) directly or indirectly via a bracket 32 or the like. The second portion 223 is disposed on the second direction DR2 side of the first portion 221 and supports the plate portion 11 of the sliding device 10. The free end portion 225 is disposed on the second direction DR2 side of the second portion 223.

[0055] In the example described in FIG. 7, the second portion 223 is supported only by the first portion 221 and is disposed on the second direction DR2 side of all the endless members 31 of the moving device 30. Further, the second portion 223 protrudes in the second direction DR2 from a first vertical partition 36 described later.

[0056] As illustrated in FIG. 8, when the cross member 22 (more specifically, each of the plurality of cross members 22) is cantilevered by the moving device 30, the movable part 30n of the moving device 30 can be intensively arranged on one side of the moving track OB1 of the sliding device 10 in plan view (more specifically, on the third direction DR3 side of the moving track OB1 of the sliding device 10 in plan view). In this case, since the movable part 30n of the moving device 30 is not arranged directly below the moving track OB1 of the sliding device 10, a flexible member 15 provided on the sliding device 10 (for example, a leash code attached to the binding 14) is prevented from being caught by the movable part 30n of the moving device 30.

[0057] On the other hand, in FIG. 9 showing the moving device 30 in the comparative example, the movable part 30n of the moving device 30 (for example, the output shaft of the motor, etc.) is arranged directly below the moving track OB1 of the sliding device 10. For this reason, there is a possibility that the flexible member 15 provided on the sliding device 10 may be caught by the movable part 30n of the moving device 30 (for example, the output shaft of the motor, etc.).

[0058] As illustrated in FIG. 7, the cross member 22 may have a deflection suppressing member 222 (for example, a deflection suppressing roller) that suppresses downward deflection of the cross member 22. The deflection suppressing member 222 is arranged between the first part 221 and the second part 223. The deflection suppressing member 222 contacts the frame member 24 of the conveying device 2 when the cross member 22 deflects downward. In this way, the deflection suppressing member 222 suppresses the cross member 22 from deflecting further downward. In a state where the sliding device 10 is not placed on the cross member 22, the deflection suppressing member 222 may be separated from the frame member 24 or may be in contact with the frame member 24. When the deflection suppressing member 222 is a deflection suppressing roller, it is preferable that the deflection suppressing roller is a free roller that can freely rotate around the rotation axis.

[0059] (Partition member 35) As illustrated in FIG. 8, the wax application system 1 (more specifically, the conveying device 2) may include a partition member 35. The partition member 35 prevents the flexible member 15 (for example, a leash cord attached to the binding 14) provided on the sliding device 10 from getting caught on the movable part 30n (for example, the endless member 31, the output shaft of the motor, etc.) of the moving device 30.

[0060] The partition member 35 is arranged so as to partition a first region AR1 where the movable part 30n (for example, the endless member 31, the output shaft of the motor, etc.) of the moving device 30 is arranged, and a second region AR2 vertically below the moving track OB1 of the sliding device 10. Due to the presence of the partition member 35, it is more reliably prevented that the flexible member 15 provided on the sliding device 10 gets caught on the movable part 30n (for example, the endless member 31, the output shaft of the motor, etc.) of the moving device 30. The partition member 35 may be constituted by one part, or may be constituted by an assembly of a plurality of parts.

[0061] In the example shown in FIG. 8, the partition member 35 includes a first vertical partition 36. The first vertical partition 36 partitions the above-described first region AR1 and the above-described second region AR2. Therefore, the first vertical partition 36 prevents the flexible member 15 provided on the sliding device 10 from getting caught on the movable part 30n of the moving device 30.

[0062] The first vertical partition 36 is constituted by, for example, a plate-like member. The length direction of the first vertical partition 36 is preferably a direction parallel to the first direction DR1, and the width direction of the first vertical partition 36 is preferably a direction parallel to the vertical direction.

[0063] In the example shown in FIG. 8, the partition member 35 includes a horizontal partition 37. The horizontal partition 37 partitions the second region AR2 vertically below the moving track OB1 of the sliding device 10 into an upper region AR21 and a lower region AR22. In this case, when something (for example, an article belonging to the user or a foreign object) falls from the sliding device 10, the horizontal partition 37 receives the falling object. Therefore, a staff member or the like can easily collect the falling object.

[0064] The horizontal partition 37 is constituted by, for example, a plate-shaped member. The length direction of the horizontal partition 37 is preferably a direction parallel to the first direction DR1, and the width direction of the horizontal partition 37 is preferably a direction parallel to the horizontal direction.

[0065] In the example shown in FIG. 7, the wax application system 1 includes a second vertical partition 38. The second vertical partition 38 partitions the above-described second region AR2 and a third region AR3 on the second direction DR2 side of the above-described second region AR2. Since the second region AR2 is sandwiched between the first vertical partition 36 and the second vertical partition 38, it is possible to prevent a user or a staff member from inadvertently accessing the second region AR2 directly below the moving track of the sliding device 10.

[0066] The second vertical partition 38 is constituted by, for example, a plate-shaped member. The length direction of the second vertical partition 38 is preferably a direction parallel to the first direction DR1, and the width direction of the second vertical partition 38 is preferably a direction parallel to the vertical direction.

[0067] In the example shown in FIG. 4, the second vertical partition 38 is disposed on the second direction DR2 side of the tunnel 4. On the other hand, from the viewpoint of facilitating the transfer of the sliding device 10, it is preferable that the second vertical partition 38 is not provided on the second direction DR2 side of the first transfer region T1 and the second transfer region T2. In the example shown in FIG. 4, the first transfer region T1 and the second transfer region T2 are exposed from the second vertical partition 38.

[0068] (Pressing roller 98) In the example shown in FIG. 11, the wax application system 1 includes a pressing roller 98. The pressing roller 98 is disposed vertically above the movement path of the support member 21 and presses the sliding surface 12 of the sliding device 10 in a direction from above to below. The pressing roller 98 is preferably a free roller that can rotate freely about its rotation axis. In this case, as the sliding device 10 passes below the pressing roller 98 and is conveyed in the first direction DR1, the pressing roller 98 rotates about its rotation axis.

[0069] In the example shown in FIG. 11, the support member 21 only supports the plate portion 11 of the sliding device 10 from below without holding the plate portion 11 of the sliding device 10. In this case, due to the sliding device 10 coming into contact with the wiper 7 or the like, the sliding device 10 may move relative to the support member 21. Therefore, the pressing roller 98 presses the sliding device 10 being conveyed in the first direction DR1 from above, thereby preventing or suppressing the sliding device 10 from moving relative to the support member 21.

[0070] The pressing roller 98 may be vertically adjustable in position, or may not be vertically adjustable in position.

[0071] (Foreign matter removing device 5) In the example shown in FIG. 12, the foreign matter removing device 5 includes an air nozzle 51 that blows air toward the sliding surface 12 of the sliding device 10. The air nozzle 51 is disposed above the movement path of the sliding device 10. The air nozzle 51 is preferably capable of blowing air over the entire width of the snowboard 10a and / or over the entire width of the ski board 10b (more specifically, over the entire width of the two ski boards 10b arranged in parallel).

[0072] In the example shown in FIG. 12, the air nozzle 51 includes a first nozzle body 51a, a second nozzle body 51b, and a third nozzle body 51c that are arranged at different positions in the direction along the second direction DR2. The first nozzle body 51a can blow air toward the right side end portion of the sliding surface 12 of the snowboard 10a, the second nozzle body 51b can blow air toward the left side end portion of the sliding surface 12 of the snowboard 10a, and the third nozzle body 51c can blow air toward the central portion in the width direction of the sliding surface 12 of the snowboard 10a.

[0073] The first nozzle body 51a may be able to blow air onto the right ski board 10b out of the two ski boards 10b arranged parallel to each other (see FIG. 3 if necessary). Also, the second nozzle body 51b may be able to blow air onto the left ski board 10b out of the two ski boards 10b arranged parallel to each other.

[0074] In the example shown in FIG. 12, the air nozzle 51 includes three nozzle bodies (51a, 51b, 51c). Alternatively, the air nozzle 51 may include one, two, or four or more nozzle bodies.

[0075] The air nozzle 51 may be manually adjustable in position in the vertical or horizontal direction. Alternatively, the air nozzle 51 may be configured to be relatively movable with respect to the moving trajectory of the sliding device 10 by an air nozzle driving device. However, from the viewpoint of simplifying the structure, it is preferable to omit the air nozzle driving device that moves the air nozzle 51.

[0076] (Wax application device 6) The wax application device 6 is arranged on the first direction DR1 side with respect to the foreign matter removing device 5. In the example shown in FIG. 2, the wax application device 6 can apply liquid wax to both the snowboard 10a and the ski board 10b. The wax application device 6 preferably can apply liquid wax to a plurality of snowboards 10a and a plurality of ski boards 10b that are conveyed in a random order.

[0077] In the example described in FIG. 2 (or FIG. 13), the wax applying device 6 includes a spray nozzle 61 that sprays liquid wax toward the sliding surface 12 of the sliding implement 10. The liquid wax sprayed from the spray nozzle 61 adheres to the sliding surface 12 of the sliding implement 10.

[0078]

[0077] In the example described in FIG. 2 (or FIG. 13), the spray nozzle 61 is disposed above the moving trajectory of the sliding implement 10. The spray nozzle 61 is preferably capable of spraying liquid wax over the entire width of the snowboard 10a and / or over the entire width of the ski board 10b (more specifically, over the entire width of the two ski boards 10b arranged in parallel). In the example described in FIG. 2, the spray nozzle 61 is a nozzle that sprays liquid wax downward so as to diffuse in a conical shape. Alternatively, the spray nozzle 61 may be a nozzle that sprays liquid wax downward so as to diffuse in a fan shape in the width direction of the sliding implement 10.

[0079] In the example described in FIG. 2, the spray nozzle 61 includes a first spray nozzle 61a that sprays liquid wax onto the sliding surface 12 of the snowboard 10a and a second spray nozzle 61b that sprays liquid wax onto the sliding surface 12 of the ski board 10b. Alternatively, even when the sliding implement 10 is a snowboard 10a or a ski board 10b, the liquid wax may be sprayed onto the sliding surface 12 from the same spray nozzle.

[0080] The spray nozzle 61 may be a fixed nozzle that cannot be repositioned with respect to the moving trajectory OB1 of the sliding implement 10. Alternatively, the spray nozzle 61 may be manually adjustable in the vertical or horizontal direction. Further alternatively, the spray nozzle 61 may be configured to be relatively movable with respect to the moving trajectory of the sliding implement 10 by a spray nozzle driving device. However, from the viewpoint of simplifying the structure, it is preferable to omit the spray nozzle driving device that moves the spray nozzle 61.

[0081] The wax application device 6 preferably includes a tank for storing liquid wax, a wax supply pipe for supplying the liquid wax from the tank to the spray nozzle 61, and an air supply pipe for supplying air to the spray nozzle 61. In this case, the liquid wax and the air are mixed inside or directly below the spray nozzle 61, and the liquid wax is atomized.

[0082] (Wiper 7) The wiper 7 is disposed on the first direction DR1 side with respect to the wax application device 6. In the example shown in FIG. 2 (or FIG. 5), the wiper 7 includes a first wiper 7a and a second wiper 7b. The first wiper 7a can wipe off excess liquid wax adhering to the back surface 12a of the board of the snowboard 10a (in other words, the sliding surface of the snowboard 10a). Further, the second wiper 7b can wipe off excess liquid wax adhering to the back surface 12b of the board of the ski 10b (in other words, the sliding surface of the ski 10b).

[0083] Since the wiper 7 has the first wiper 7a and the second wiper 7b, regardless of whether the sliding device 10 conveyed by the conveying device 2 is the snowboard 10a or the ski 10b, the excess liquid wax adhering to the sliding surface 12 of the sliding device 10 can be suitably wiped off.

[0084] In the example shown in FIG. 14(a), the first wiper 7a is configured to automatically move in the vertical direction following the undulations of the back surface 12a of the snowboard 10a. More specifically, the first wiper 7a is configured to automatically move in the vertical direction by utilizing the swing of the first arm 71.

[0085] In the example shown in FIG. 14(a), the wax application system 1 includes a first arm 71 that supports the first wiper 7a, and a first arm support member 72 that supports the first arm 71 so as to be swingable about a first swing axis AX1. Further, the center of the first wiper 7a is located on the first direction DR1 side with respect to the first swing axis AX1.

[0086] As exemplified by the change from the state shown in FIG. 14(a) to the state shown in FIG. 14(b), assume a case where the height of the board back surface 12a of the snowboard 10a increases in the region directly below the first wiper 7a. In this case, the first arm 71 swings with respect to the first arm support member 72 so that the angle formed between the first arm 71 and the first arm support member 72 decreases. As a result, following the increase in the height of the board back surface 12a of the snowboard 10a, the height of the first wiper 7a increases.

[0087] Assume a case where the height of the board back surface 12a of the snowboard 10a decreases in the region directly below the first wiper 7a. In this case, the first arm 71 swings with respect to the first arm support member 72 so that the angle formed between the first arm 71 and the first arm support member 72 increases. As a result, following the decrease in the height of the board back surface 12a of the snowboard 10a, the height of the first wiper 7a decreases.

[0088] As exemplified in FIG. 14(b), the wax application system 1 may have a first stopper 73 that defines the maximum value of the angle formed between the first arm 71 and the first arm support member 72.

[0089] The material of the wiping surface of the first wiper 7a may be any material as long as it can wipe off excess liquid wax. The wiping surface of the first wiper 7a is constituted by, for example, a non-woven fabric.

[0090] In the example shown in FIG. 15(a), the second wiper 7b is configured to automatically move in the vertical direction following the undulations of the board back surface 12b of the ski 10b. More specifically, the second wiper 7b is configured to automatically move in the vertical direction by utilizing the swing of the second arm 75.

[0091] In the example shown in FIG. 15(a), the wax application system 1 includes a second arm 75 that supports the second wiper 7b, and a second arm support member 76 that supports the second arm 75 so as to be swingable about a second swing axis AX2. Also, the center of the second wiper 7b is located on the first direction DR1 side of the second swing axis AX2.

[0092] Assume that in the region directly below the second wiper 7b, the height of the back surface 12b of the ski board 10b increases. In this case, the second arm 75 swings with respect to the second arm support member 76 so that the angle formed between the second arm 75 and the second arm support member 76 decreases. As a result, following the increase in the height of the back surface 12b of the ski board 10b, the height of the second wiper 7b increases.

[0093] Assume that, as exemplified by the change from the state shown in FIG. 15(a) to the state shown in FIG. 15(b), in the region directly below the second wiper 7b, the height of the back surface 12b of the ski board 10b decreases. In this case, the second arm 75 swings with respect to the second arm support member 76 so that the angle formed between the second arm 75 and the second arm support member 76 increases. As a result, following the decrease in the height of the back surface 12b of the ski board 10b, the height of the second wiper 7b decreases.

[0094] As exemplified in FIG. 15(b), the wax application system 1 may have a second stopper 77 that defines a maximum value of the angle formed between the second arm 75 and the second arm support member 76.

[0095] In the example shown in FIG. 16, the width W2 of the second wiper 7b (in other words, the length of the second wiper 7b in the direction along the second direction DR2) is smaller than the width W1 of the first wiper 7a (in other words, the length of the first wiper 7a in the direction along the second direction DR2).

[0096] When the ski board 10b moves in the first direction DR1 directly below the second wiper 7b, it is preferable that the second wiper 7b is configured to cross between the two brake arms 13 of the ski board 10b. In other words, when the ski board 10b moves in the first direction DR1 directly below the second wiper 7b, the brake arm 13R arranged on the right side of the board portion 11b of the ski board 10b moves so as to pass to the right side of the second wiper 7b, and the brake arm 13L arranged on the left side of the board portion 11b of the ski board 10b is preferably configured to pass to the left side of the second wiper 7b.

[0097] In the examples shown in FIGS. 17(a) and 17(b), the second wiper 7b is configured to be contractible in the lateral direction (in other words, the direction perpendicular to both the first direction DR1 and the vertical direction). More specifically, when the width of the second wiper 7b in the natural state is defined as width W2, the second wiper 7b is contractible such that the width of the second wiper 7b becomes a width W2' smaller than the width W2.

[0098] In the examples shown in FIGS. 17(a) and 17(b), since the second wiper 7b is contractible in the lateral direction (in other words, the width direction of the second wiper 7b), the function of the second wiper 7b can be maximally exerted regardless of the type of binding of the ski board 10b. More specifically, even when the width W2 of the second wiper 7b in the natural state is larger than the interval between the two brake arms (13R, 13L), the second wiper 7b can preferably cross between the two brake arms (13R, 13L). The interval between the two brake arms (13R, 13L) varies depending on the type of binding. When the second wiper 7b is contractible in the width direction, it can flexibly respond to the type of binding (in other words, the various intervals between the two brake arms).

[0099] The material of the wiping surface of the second wiper 7b is preferably a material that can wipe off excess liquid wax and is contractible. The wiping surface of the second wiper 7b is constituted by, for example, a sponge.

[0100] (First drive device 78) In the example shown in FIGS. 18(a) and 18(b), the wax application system 1 includes a first drive device 78 that moves the first wiper 7a between a first extended position P1 and a first retracted position P2. The first extended position P1 is a position where it can contact the back surface 12a of the snowboard 10a, and the first retracted position P2 is a position where it cannot contact the back surface 12b of the ski 10b (and the brake arm 13 of the ski 10b).

[0101] As illustrated in FIG. 18(a), when the sliding device 10 conveyed by the conveying device 2 is the snowboard 10a, the first drive device 78 advances the first wiper 7a to the first extended position P1. In this way, the first wiper 7a can wipe off the excess liquid wax adhering to the back surface 12a of the snowboard 10a.

[0102] As illustrated in FIG. 18(b), when the sliding device 10 conveyed by the conveying device 2 is the ski 10b, the first drive device 78 retracts the first wiper 7a to the first retracted position P2. In this way, the brake arm 13 of the ski 10b is prevented from colliding with the first wiper 7a. Note that in a state where the first wiper 7a is retracted to the first retracted position P2, the excess liquid wax adhering to the back surface 12b of the ski 10b is wiped off by the second wiper 7b.

[0103] (Guide member 91) As illustrated in FIG. 19, the wax application system 1 may have a guide member 91 that corrects the position of the ski 10b. In the example shown in FIG. 19, the second wiper 7b is arranged in a first direction DR1 with respect to the guide member 91. The guide member 91 corrects the position of the ski 10b so that the position of the second wiper 7b and the position of the sliding surface 12 of the ski 10b that the second wiper 7b should contact are aligned.

[0104] As illustrated in FIG. 19, the guide member 91 corrects the lateral position of the ski board 10b (in other words, the position of the ski board 10b in the direction parallel to the second direction DR2). The guide member 91 preferably includes a right guide 91R that can contact the right side of the ski board 10b and a left guide 91L that can contact the left side of the ski board 10b. In this case, the guide member 91 can align the lateral position of the ski board 10b and the lateral position of the second wiper 7b.

[0105] Note that the guide member 91 is configured not to interfere with the movement of the two brake arms (13R, 13L) of the ski board 10b. For example, the distance between the right guide 91R and the left guide 91L may be set to a width that allows the passage of the two brake arms (13R, 13L). Alternatively, or additionally, the guide member 91 may be contractible, deformable, or displaceable by contact with the brake arms.

[0106] (Second drive device 92) In the example shown in FIGS. 20(a) and 20(b), the wax application system 1 includes a second drive device 92 that moves the guide member 91 between a second extended position P3 and a second retracted position P4. The second extended position P3 is a position where it can contact the ski board 10b, and the second retracted position P4 is a position where it cannot contact the snowboard 10a. The second retracted position P4 is, for example, a position above the second extended position P3.

[0107] As illustrated in FIG. 20(a), when the sliding device 10 conveyed by the conveying device 2 is the ski board 10b, the second drive device 92 advances the guide member 91 to the second extended position P3. Thus, the guide member 91 can correct the position of the ski board 10b (more specifically, the lateral position of the ski board 10b).

[0108] As illustrated in FIG. 20(b), when the sliding implement 10 conveyed by the conveying device 2 is a snowboard 10a, the second drive device 92 retracts the guide member 91 to the second retracted position P4. In this way, the snowboard 10a is prevented from colliding with the guide member 91.

[0109] (Sensor 94 and control device 95) As illustrated in FIGS. 21 and 22, the wax application system 1 may include a sensor 94 that detects the sliding implement 10 and a control device 95.

[0110] The sensor 94 may be any sensor as long as it can detect the type of the sliding implement 10. The sensor 94 may be an image sensor, a contact sensor, or a sensor that detects the gap between two ski boards 10b arranged in parallel.

[0111] The control device 95 receives a signal from the sensor 94 and controls the above-described first drive device 78 or the above-described second drive device 92.

[0112] More specifically, the control device 95 discriminates the type of the sliding implement 10 based on the signal received from the sensor 94. Further, the control device 95 controls the first drive device 78 or the second drive device 92 according to whether the type of the sliding implement 10 is a snowboard 10a or a ski board 10b.

[0113] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 21(a), when the sliding implement 10 detected by the sensor 94 is a ski board 10b (in other words, when the control device 95 discriminates the type of the sliding implement 10 as a ski board 10b), the control device 95 transmits a first control signal to the first drive device 78 so that the first wiper 7a moves to the first retracted position P2. The first drive device 78 that receives the first control signal moves the first wiper 7a from the first extended position P1 to the first retracted position P2 (see FIG. 21(b)).

[0114] Also, as illustrated in FIG. 21(b), when the sliding device 10 detected by the sensor 94 is a snowboard 10a (in other words, when the control device 95 determines that the type of the sliding device 10 is the snowboard 10a), the control device 95 transmits a second control signal to the first driving device 78 so that the first wiper 7a moves to the first extended position P1. The first driving device 78 that receives the second control signal moves the first wiper 7a from the first retracted position P2 to the first extended position P1 (see FIG. 21(c)).

[0115] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 22(a), when the sliding device 10 detected by the sensor 94 is a ski 10b (in other words, when the control device 95 determines that the type of the sliding device 10 is the ski 10b), the control device 95 transmits a third control signal to the second driving device 92 so that the guide member 91 moves to the second extended position P3. The second driving device 92 that receives the third control signal moves the guide member 91 from the second retracted position P4 to the second extended position P3 (see FIG. 22(b)).

[0116] Also, as illustrated in FIG. 22(b), when the sliding device 10 detected by the sensor 94 is a snowboard 10a (in other words, when the control device 95 determines that the type of the sliding device 10 is the snowboard 10a), the control device 95 transmits a fourth control signal to the second driving device 92 so that the guide member 91 moves to the second retracted position P4. The second driving device 92 that receives the fourth control signal moves the guide member 91 from the second extended position P3 to the second retracted position P4 (see FIG. 22(c)).

[0117] (First Transfer Device 81, First Stocking Device 83) In the example shown in FIG. 4, the wax application system 1 includes a first transfer device 81 that transfers the sliding device 10 to the cross member 22. The wax application system 1 may include a first stocking device 83 that can temporarily support a plurality of sliding devices 10.

[0118] In the example described in FIG. 4, the first transfer device 81 transfers the sliding implement 10 to the first cross member 22a and the second cross member 22b in the first transfer area T1.

[0119] The first transfer device 81 has a first support portion 82 that supports the sliding implement 10. The first support portion 82 may be capable of supporting a plurality of sliding implements 10. In the example described in FIG. 4, the first support portion 82 is capable of supporting three or more sliding implements 10. The first support portion 82 may include a first rod-shaped portion 821 that supports the front end side portion 111 of the sliding implement 10 and a second rod-shaped portion 822 that supports the rear end side portion 112 of the sliding implement 10. In the example described in FIG. 4, each of the first rod-shaped portion 821 and the second rod-shaped portion 822 extends in a direction parallel to the second direction DR2.

[0120] The first stocker 83 has a second support portion 84 that supports the sliding implement 10. The second support portion 84 may be capable of supporting a plurality of sliding implements 10. In the example described in FIG. 4, the second support portion 84 is capable of supporting three or more sliding implements 10. The second support portion 84 may include a third rod-shaped portion 841 that supports the front end side portion 111 of the sliding implement 10 and a fourth rod-shaped portion 842 that supports the rear end side portion 112 of the sliding implement 10.

[0121] As shown by the arrow E1 in FIG. 23(a) and in FIG. 23(b), the first transfer device 81 is configured to approach the cross member 22 with the first support portion 82 that supports the sliding implement 10 from the free end portion 225 side of the cross member 22. In other words, the first transfer device 81 uses the free end portion 225 of the cross member 22 to approach the cross member 22 with the first support portion 82.

[0122] As shown in FIG. 23(b), the first transfer device 81 can move the first support portion 82 that supports the sliding implement 10 to the approach position Q2. The approach position Q2 is a position higher than the height of the cross member 22 and a position on the DR3 side of the free end 225 of the cross member 22. The movement of the first support portion 82 to the approach position Q2 is executed, for example, by moving the first support portion 82 upward from the first lower position Q1 shown in FIG. 23(a), and then moving the first support portion 82 in the DR3 direction.

[0123] As shown by the arrow E2 in FIG. 23(b), the first transfer device 81 can move the first support portion 82 that supports the sliding implement 10 downward from the approach position Q2 toward the second lower position Q3 (see FIG. 23(c)). The second lower position Q3 is a position lower than the height of the cross member 22 and a position on the DR3 side of the free end 225 of the cross member 22. When the first support portion 82 moves from the approach position Q2 to the second lower position Q3, the sliding implement 10 supported by the first support portion 82 is transferred to the cross member 22.

[0124] As illustrated in FIGS. 23(b) and 23(c), when the first support portion 82 moves from the approach position Q2 to the second lower position Q3, the leading sliding implement 10 supported by the first support portion 82 (in other words, the sliding implement located on the DR3 side) is transferred to the cross member 22, and the subsequent sliding implement 10 supported by the first support portion 82 (in other words, the sliding implement located on the DR2 side) may be transferred to the second support portion 84 (the second support portion 84 of the first stocker 83).

[0125] As shown by the arrow E3 in FIG. 23(c), the first transfer device 81 can move the first support portion 82 from the second lower position Q3 toward the first lower position Q1 (see FIG. 24(d)) in the DR2 direction.

[0126] As described above, in the examples shown in FIGS. 23(a) to 23(d), the first transfer device 81 can transfer the plurality of sliding tools 10 supported by the second support portion 84 of the first stocker 83 to the cross member 22 of the transfer device 2 sequentially by moving the first support portion 82 in a box motion manner.

[0127] (Second transfer device 86, second stocker 88) In the example shown in FIG. 4, the wax coating system 1 includes a second transfer device 86 that takes out the sliding tool 10 from the cross member 22. The wax coating system 1 may include a second stocker 88 that can temporarily support a plurality of sliding tools 10.

[0128] In the example shown in FIG. 4, the second transfer device 86 takes out the sliding tool 10 from the first cross member 22a and the second cross member 22b in the second transfer area T2.

[0129] The second transfer device 86 has a third support portion 87 that supports the sliding tool 10. The third support portion 87 may be capable of supporting a plurality of sliding tools 10. The third support portion 87 may include a fifth rod-shaped portion 871 that supports the front end side portion 111 of the sliding tool 10 and a sixth rod-shaped portion 872 that supports the rear end side portion 112 of the sliding tool 10. In the example shown in FIG. 4, the fifth rod-shaped portion 871 and the sixth rod-shaped portion 872 extend in a direction parallel to the second direction DR2.

[0130] The second stocker 88 has a fourth support portion 89 that supports the sliding tool 10. The fourth support portion 89 may be capable of supporting a plurality of sliding tools 10. The fourth support portion 89 may include a seventh rod-shaped portion 891 that supports the front end side portion 111 of the sliding tool 10 and an eighth rod-shaped portion 892 that supports the rear end side portion 112 of the sliding tool 10.

[0131] As shown by arrow E4 in FIG. 24(a), the second transfer device 86 is configured to approach the third support portion 87 to the cross member 22 from the free end portion 225 side of the cross member 22. In other words, the second transfer device 86 uses the free end portion 225 of the cross member 22 to approach the third support portion 87 to the cross member 22.

[0132] As shown in FIG. 24(b), the second transfer device 86 can move the third support portion 87 to the second approach position Q5. The second approach position Q5 is a position lower than the height of the cross member 22 and on the DR3 side of the free end portion 225 of the cross member 22 in the third direction. The movement of the third support portion 87 to the second approach position Q5 is executed, for example, by moving the third support portion 87 in the third direction DR3 from the first lower position Q4 shown in FIG. 24(a).

[0133] As shown by arrow E5 in FIG. 24(b), the second transfer device 86 can move the third support portion 87 upward from the second approach position Q5 toward the first upper position Q6 (see FIG. 24(c)). The first upper position Q6 is a position higher than the height of the cross member 22 and on the DR3 side of the free end portion 225 of the cross member 22 in the third direction. When the third support portion 87 moves from the second approach position Q5 to the first upper position Q6, the sliding device 10 supported by the cross member 22 is transferred to the third support portion 87.

[0134] As illustrated in FIGS. 24(b) and 24(c), when the third support portion 87 moves from the second approach position Q5 to the first upper position Q6, the sliding device 10 supported by the cross member 22 may be transferred to the third support portion 87, and the sliding device 10 supported by the fourth support portion 89 (the fourth support portion 89 of the second stocker 88) may be transferred to the third support portion 87.

[0135] As shown by arrow E6 in Fig. 24(c), the second transfer device 86 can move the third support portion 87 from the first upper position Q6 to the first lower position Q4 (see Fig. 24(d)). The first lower position Q4 is a position lower than the height of the fourth support portion 89 and on the second direction DR2 side of the free end portion 225 of the cross member 22.

[0136] As illustrated in Figs. 24(c) and 24(d), when the third support portion 87 moves from the first upper position Q6 to the first lower position Q4, the sliding device 10 supported by the third support portion 87 is transferred to the fourth support portion 89.

[0137] As described above, in the example shown in Figs. 24(a) to 24(d), the second transfer device 86 can sequentially transfer a plurality of sliding devices 10 from the cross member 22 of the transfer device 2 to the second stocker 88 by moving the third support portion 87 in a box motion manner.

[0138] (Wax Coating Method) With reference to Figs. 1 to 25, the wax coating method in the embodiment will be described. Fig. 25 is a flowchart showing an example of the wax coating method in the embodiment.

[0139] The wax coating method in the embodiment may be executed using the wax coating system 1A in the first embodiment, or may be executed using the wax coating system 1B in the second embodiment, or may be executed using other wax coating systems.

[0140] As illustrated in FIG. 1, the wax application method in the embodiment includes a conveying step of conveying the sliding device 10 in the first direction DR1 so as to pass through the area in the tunnel 4. The conveying step is executed by moving the support member 21 that supports the plate portion 11 of the sliding device 10 for sliding on the snow in the first direction DR1. Since the support member 21 has been described in the first embodiment or the second embodiment, repeated description of the support member 21 will be omitted. As illustrated in FIG. 6, the support member 21 preferably includes a plurality of cross members 22. Also, as illustrated in FIG. 7, each of the plurality of cross members 22 preferably has a free end portion 225. Each of the plurality of cross members 22 is preferably cantilever-supported by a moving device 30 that moves the plurality of cross members 22.

[0141] In the above-described conveying step, a plurality of sliding devices 10 are conveyed in the first direction DR1 using the support member 21. In the conveying step, the plurality of sliding devices 10 conveyed using the support member 21 may be a plurality of snowboards 10a, or may be a plurality of ski boards 10b, or may be a plurality of snowboards 10a and a plurality of ski boards 10b.

[0142] During all periods during the execution of the above-described conveying step, the support member 21 may support the plate portion 11 of the sliding device 10 from below without holding the plate portion 11 of the sliding device 10.

[0143] As illustrated in FIG. 19, when the sliding device 10 conveyed using the support member 21 is a ski board 10b, the conveying step may include a position correction step of correcting the lateral position of the ski board 10b. By executing the position correction step, the lateral position of the ski board 10b is aligned with the lateral position of the wiper (7b) that wipes excess liquid wax from the back surface 12b of the ski board 10b.

[0144] The position correction process is executed using the guide member 91. As illustrated in FIG. 20(b), when the sliding device 10 conveyed using the support member 21 is the snowboard 10a, the guide member 91 is moved to the second retracted position P4, and as illustrated in FIG. 20(a), when the sliding device 10 conveyed using the support member 21 is the ski board 10b, the guide member 91 may be moved to the second advanced position P3.

[0145] As illustrated in FIG. 4, in the first step ST1, the sliding device 10 is transferred to the support member 21 (more specifically, a plurality of cross members 22 including the first cross member 22a and the second cross member 22b). The first step ST1 is the first transfer process.

[0146] As indicated by the arrow E1 in FIG. 23(a), the first transfer process preferably includes approaching the sliding device 10 to the cross member 22 from the free end 225 side of the cross member 22. The first transfer process is executed, for example, using the first transfer device 81. As indicated by the arrow E2 in FIG. 23(b), the sliding device 10 may be transferred from the first support portion 82 to the cross member 22 by the first support portion 82 that supports the sliding device 10 moving from above downward across the cross member 22.

[0147] In the second step ST2, foreign matter is removed from the sliding surface 12 of the sliding device 10. The second step ST2 is the foreign matter removal process. The foreign matter removal process is executed during the execution of the above-described conveyance process. Also, as illustrated in FIG. 1, the foreign matter removal process is executed in the tunnel 4 using the foreign matter removal device 5. Since the foreign matter removal device 5 has been described in the first embodiment or the second embodiment, a repetitive description of the foreign matter removal device 5 is omitted.

[0148] In the third step ST3, liquid wax is applied to the sliding surface 12 of the sliding device 10. The third step ST3 is a wax application process. The wax application process is executed during the execution of the above-described conveyance process. Further, as illustrated in FIG. 1, the wax application process is executed in the tunnel 4 using the wax application device 6. Since the wax application device 6 has already been described in the first embodiment or the second embodiment, a repeated description of the wax application device 6 will be omitted.

[0149] In the fourth step ST4, excess liquid wax adhering to the sliding surface 12 of the sliding device 10 is wiped off. The fourth step ST4 is a wiping process. The wiping process is executed during the execution of the above-described conveyance process. Further, as illustrated in FIG. 1, the wiping process is executed in the tunnel 4 using the wiper 7. Since the wiper 7 has already been described in the first embodiment or the second embodiment, a repeated description of the wiper 7 will be omitted. Note that the wiper 7 may include a first wiper 7a that wipes excess liquid wax from the back surface of the board of the snowboard 10a and a second wiper 7b that wipes excess liquid wax from the back surface of the board of the ski 10b.

[0150] Also, as illustrated in FIG. 18(a), when the sliding device 10 conveyed using the support member 21 is the snowboard 10a, the first wiper 7a may be moved to the first advancing position P1, and as illustrated in FIG. 18(b), when the sliding device 10 conveyed using the support member 21 is the ski 10b, the first wiper 7a may be moved to the first retracted position P2.

[0151] As illustrated in FIG. 4, in the fifth step ST5, the sliding device 10 is taken out from the support member 21 (more specifically, a plurality of cross members 22 including the first cross member 22a and the second cross member 22b). The fifth step ST5 is a taking-out process (more specifically, a second transfer process).

[0152] As shown by arrow E5 in FIG. 24(b) and arrow E6 in FIG. 24(c), the taking-out step (or the second transfer step) preferably includes taking out the sliding tool 10 to the second direction DR2 side from the free end 225 of the cross member 22. The taking-out step is performed, for example, using the second transfer device 86. As shown by arrow E5 in FIG. 24(b), the sliding tool 10 may be transferred from the cross member 22 to the third support portion 87 by the third support portion 87 of the second transfer device 86 moving from below upward so as to cross the cross member 22.

[0153] In the wax application method according to the embodiment, in the above-described conveying step, the support member 21 supports the plate portion 11 of the sliding tool 10 in such a manner that the sliding surface 12 of the sliding tool 10 faces upward and the longitudinal direction of the sliding tool 10 is parallel to the first direction DR1. Therefore, it is possible to efficiently apply (more specifically, spray) the liquid wax from above downward.

[0154] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments or each modification, and it is obvious that each embodiment or each modification can be appropriately deformed or changed within the scope of the technical idea of the present invention. Further, various techniques used in each embodiment or each modification are applicable to other embodiments or other modifications as long as no technical contradiction occurs. Furthermore, any additional configuration in each embodiment or each modification can be appropriately omitted.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0155] 1, 1A, 1B: Wax application system 2: Conveying device 4: Tunnel 4a: Entrance 4b: Exit 5: Foreign matter removing device 6: Wax application device 7: Wiping tool 7a: First wiping tool 7b: Second wiping tool 10: Sliding tool 10a: Snowboard 10b: Ski board 11, 11a, 11b: Board part 12: Sliding surface 12a: Back surface of the snowboard 12b: Back surface of the ski board 13: Brake arm 13L: Left brake arm 13R: Right brake arm 14: Binding 15: Flexible member 21: Support member 22: Transverse member 22a: First transverse member 22b: Second transverse member 22d: Concave part 24: Frame member 30: Moving device 30n: Movable part 31: Endless member 31a: First endless chain 31b: Second endless chain 32: Bracket 33: Driving device 35: Partition member 36: First vertical partition 37: Horizontal partition 38: Second vertical partition 51: Air nozzle 51a: First nozzle body 51b: Second nozzle body 51c: Third nozzle body 61: Spray nozzle 61a: First spray nozzle 61b: Second spray nozzle 71: First arm 72: First arm support member 73: First stopper 75: Second arm 76: Second arm support member 77: Second stopper 78: First driving device 81: First transfer device 82: First support part 83: First stocker 84: Second support part 86: Second transfer device 87: Third support part 88: Second stocker 89: Fourth support part 91: Guide member 91L: Left guide 91R: Right guide 92: Second drive device 94: Sensor 95: Control device 98: Pressing roller 111: Tip side part 112: Rear end side part 220a: First rod member 220b: Second rod member 221: First part 222: Bending suppression member 223: Second part 225: Free end 331: Motor 332: Power transmission mechanism 821: First rod-shaped part 822: Second rod-shaped part 841: Third rod-shaped part 842: Fourth rod-shaped part 871: Fifth rod-shaped part 872: Sixth rod-shaped part 891: Seventh rod-shaped part 892: Eighth rod-shaped part AR1: First region AR2: Second region AR21: Upper region AR22: Lower region AR3: Third region AX1: First swing axis AX2: Second swing axis G1: Gap OB1: Movement track of the sliding appliance OB2: Circumferential track of the endless member P1: First advanced position P2: First retraction position P3: Second access position P4: Second retraction position Q1: First lower position Q2: Approach position Q3: Second lower position Q4: First lower position Q5: Second approach position Q6: First upper position S: Set consisting of a first cross member and a second cross member SP: Coating area T1: First transfer area T2: Second transfer area

Claims

1. A conveying device for conveying a sliding device for sliding on snow in a first direction, a tunnel through which the sliding device conveyed by the conveying device passes, a foreign matter removing device disposed in the tunnel for removing foreign matter from the sliding surface of the sliding device, a wax applying device disposed in the tunnel for applying liquid wax to the sliding surface of the sliding device, a wiper disposed in the tunnel for wiping off excess liquid wax adhering to the sliding surface of the sliding device and comprising, the conveying device includes a support member on which a plate portion of the sliding device is placed and which moves in the first direction, the support member supports the plate portion of the sliding device such that the sliding surface of the sliding device faces upward and the longitudinal direction of the sliding device is parallel to the first direction, the support member has a plurality of cross members extending in a direction intersecting the moving orbit of the sliding device, the conveying device includes a moving device for moving the support member, each of the plurality of cross members is cantilever-supported by the moving device, each of the plurality of cross members, a first portion supported by the moving device, a second portion disposed on the second direction side of the first portion and supporting the plate portion of the sliding device, and a free end portion disposed on the second direction side of the second portion having a wax applying system.

2. the support member has a shape capable of supporting both a snowboard which is a kind of the sliding device and a ski board which is a kind of the sliding device, the wax applying device is capable of applying liquid wax to both the snowboard and the ski board The wax applying system according to Claim 1.

3. the wiper, a first wiper capable of wiping off excess liquid wax adhering to the back surface of the board of the snowboard, and a second wiper capable of wiping off excess liquid wax adhering to the back surface of the board of the ski board including The wax applying system according to Claim 2.

4. the second wiper is configured to cross between two brake arms of the ski board, the second wiper is capable of contracting in the lateral direction The wax applying system according to Claim 3.

5. A conveying device for conveying a sliding device for sliding on snow in a first direction, a tunnel through which the sliding device conveyed by the conveying device passes, A foreign object removing device disposed in the tunnel for removing foreign objects from the sliding surface of the sliding device; A wax applying device disposed in the tunnel for applying liquid wax to the sliding surface of the sliding device; A wiping tool disposed in the tunnel for wiping off excess liquid wax adhering to the sliding surface of the sliding device comprising; The conveying device includes a support member on which the plate portion of the sliding device is placed and which moves in the first direction. The support member supports the plate portion of the sliding device such that the sliding surface of the sliding device faces upward and the longitudinal direction of the sliding device is parallel to the first direction. The support member has a shape capable of supporting either a snowboard which is a kind of the sliding device or a ski board which is a kind of the sliding device. The wax applying device is capable of applying liquid wax to either the snowboard or the ski board. The wiping tool includes a first wiping tool capable of wiping off excess liquid wax adhering to the back surface of the snowboard, and a second wiping tool capable of wiping off excess liquid wax adhering to the back surface of the ski board. The wax applying system further includes a first driving device for moving the first wiping tool between a first advancing position where it can contact the back surface of the snowboard and a first retracted position where it cannot contact the back surface of the ski board. When the sliding device conveyed by the conveying device is the snowboard, the first driving device advances the first wiping tool to the first advancing position. When the sliding device conveyed by the conveying device is the ski board, the first driving device retracts the first wiping tool to the first retracted position. A wax applying system. A conveying device for conveying a sliding device for sliding on snow in a first direction, a tunnel through which the sliding device conveyed by the conveying device passes, a foreign object removing device disposed in the tunnel for removing foreign objects from the sliding surface of the sliding device, a wax applying device disposed in the tunnel for applying liquid wax to the sliding surface of the sliding device, a wiping tool disposed in the tunnel for wiping off excess liquid wax adhering to the sliding surface of the sliding device, comprising; The conveying device includes a support member on which the plate portion of the sliding device is placed and which moves in the first direction. ​ The support member supports the plate portion of the sliding device such that the sliding surface of the sliding device faces upward and the longitudinal direction of the sliding device is parallel to the first direction. The support member has a shape capable of supporting either a snowboard which is a kind of the sliding device or a ski board which is a kind of the sliding device. The wax applying device is capable of applying liquid wax to either the snowboard or the ski board. A guide member for correcting the position of the ski board; A second driving device for moving the guide member between a second extended position where it can contact the ski board and a second retracted position where it cannot contact the snowboard is further provided. When the sliding device conveyed by the conveying device is the ski board, the second driving device extends the guide member to the second extended position where it can contact the ski board. When the sliding device conveyed by the conveying device is the snowboard, the second driving device retracts the guide member to the second retracted position where it cannot contact the snowboard. Wax applying system.

7. A sensor for detecting the sliding device; A control device that receives a signal from the sensor and controls the first driving device is further provided. Based on the signal received from the sensor, the control device discriminates the type of the sliding device. The control device controls the first driving device according to whether the type of the sliding device is the snowboard or the ski board. The wax applying system according to claim 5.

8. A sensor for detecting the sliding device; A control device that receives a signal from the sensor and controls the second driving device is further provided. Based on the signal received from the sensor, the control device discriminates the type of the sliding device. The control device controls the second driving device according to whether the type of the sliding device is the snowboard or the ski board. The wax applying system according to claim 6.

9. The plurality of cross members include a first cross member capable of supporting the front end side portion of the plate portion of the sliding device and a second cross member capable of supporting the rear end side portion of the plate portion of the sliding device. The wax applying system according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

10. The flexible member provided on the sliding device further includes a partition member that prevents the flexible member from getting caught in the movable part of the moving device. The partition member is arranged so as to partition a first region where the movable part of the moving device is arranged and a second region vertically below the moving track of the sliding device. The wax coating system according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

11. The sliding device further includes a first transfer device that transfers the sliding device to the cross member. The first transfer device has a first support portion that supports the sliding device. The first transfer device is configured to approach the cross member with the first support portion that supports the sliding device from the free end side of the cross member. The wax coating system according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

12. A conveying step of conveying the sliding device in the first direction by moving a support member that supports a plate portion of the sliding device for sliding on snow in the first direction; During the execution of the conveying step, a foreign matter removing step of removing foreign matter from the sliding surface of the sliding device in a tunnel using a foreign matter removing device; During the execution of the conveying step, a wax coating step of applying liquid wax to the sliding surface of the sliding device in the tunnel using a wax coating device; During the execution of the conveying step, a wiping step of wiping excess liquid wax adhering to the sliding surface of the sliding device in the tunnel using a wiping tool is provided, The conveying step is executed in a state where the support member supports the plate portion of the sliding device such that the sliding surface of the sliding device faces upward and the longitudinal direction of the sliding device is parallel to the first direction. The support member has a plurality of cross members extending in a direction intersecting the moving track of the sliding device. Each of the plurality of cross members is cantilever-supported by a moving device that moves the support member. Each of the plurality of cross members has a first portion supported by the moving device, a second portion arranged on the second direction side of the first portion and supporting the plate portion of the sliding device, and a free end portion arranged on the second direction side of the second portion and has A wax coating method.

Images