Ice skating

Abstract

As an ice skate for ice skating, the ice skate comprises: an upper chassis section (10) comprising a first contact surface (15) having a front end (15a) and a rear end (15b); a lower chassis section (30) comprising a second contact surface (35) having a front end (35a) and a rear end (35b); and a coupling device comprising springback means (50, 60, 70, 80), the coupling device configured to mechanically connect the upper (10) and lower (30) chassis sections. At least one of the first (15) and second (35) contact surfaces is curved. The coupling device is configured such that the upper chassis section (10) pivots relative to the lower chassis section (30) by a rolling contact movement between the first (15) and second (35) contact surfaces, so that the momentary contact area (CR) of the first (15) and second (35) contact surfaces moves back and forth between the front (15a, 35a) and rear (15b, 35b) ends of the first (15) and second (35) contact surfaces. The springback means (50, 60, 70, 80) is configured to press the momentary contact area (CR) to a neutral position located at the front ends (15a, 35a) of the first (15) and second (15) contact surfaces. The above springback means (50, 60, 70, 80) is entirely configured in front of the front end (15a, 35a) of the first (15) and second (35) contact surfaces.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of ice skating for skating on ice. In particular, the present invention relates to an ice skate configured such that an upper chassis section pivots by a rolling contact motion with respect to a lower chassis section. Background Technology

[0002] Traditional ice skates consist of a boot that accommodates the user's foot and a skate blade attached to the boot. The blade exhibits a specific profile or rocker, meaning that the lower ice-contacting edge is curved along the blade's length (longitudinal) with a specific radius of curvature. This curvature allows the user to determine which part of the blade makes momentary contact with the ice. By shifting the angle at which force is transferred from the user's leg to the blade, the user can move the momentary ice-contacting part backward to apply force along the curved ice-contacting surface.

[0003] Because a longer instantaneous ice contact section promotes faster speeds on the ice, speed skates generally feature profiles with a larger radius of curvature. In practice, the entire ice contact surface of a speed skate, or at least a major portion thereof, can be straight with no curvature at all. Conversely, the shorter instantaneous ice contact section enhances maneuverability and facilitates sharp turns, quick starts and stops, and backward skating. For this reason, ice skates intended for use in other sports, such as ice hockey, bandy, and figure skating, generally feature blade profiles with a smaller radius of curvature. The curvature of the blade can vary along the ice contact surface so that the profile includes multiple sections with different radii along the blade. Blades for ice hockey skates, for example, feature a smaller radius front section used for acceleration, a larger radius middle section for gliding and high-speed skating, and a smaller radius rear section for quick stops and crossover skating.

[0004] In speed skating, there are various types of so-called clap bindings for attaching the boot to the blade. These clap bindings allow the boot to pivot around a fixed axis of rotation relative to the blade. This allows the skater to increase speed by extending each leg stroke while keeping a relatively long portion of the blade in contact with the ice.

[0005] Recently, a more advanced type of ice skate has been introduced. In this type, the boot is allowed to pivot by rolling contact motion in the longitudinal direction relative to the blade. EP 2 696 949 B1 discloses such an ice skate. This ice skate comprises a binding having an upper chassis section having a first contact surface and a lower chassis section having a second contact surface. At least one of the contact surfaces is curved. A coupling means is configured so that the upper and lower chassis sections engage, so that they can pivot longitudinally relative to each other and the first and second contact surfaces can roll contact without a fixed point of rotation during the pivoting. A spring back means is configured to urge the relative pivot position between the first contact surface and the second contact surface to a neutral position. This ice skate is designed for use in ice hockey, bandy, figure skating, etc., and allows the user to shift the center of gravity along the length of the foot while maintaining uniform pressure on the blade. Mobility, performance, and comfort are significantly improved by this means. The problem to be solved

[0006] The object of the present invention is to provide an improved type of ice skate in which the upper chassis section can pivot by rolling contact motion without a fixed point of rotation relative to the lower chassis section.

[0007] Another objective is to provide ice skates capable of precisely adjusting the spring back force that urges or biases relative pivot rolling motion to a neutral position.

[0008] Another objective is to provide ice skates that are simple in construction and reliable.

[0009] Another objective is to provide such ice skates that exhibit reduced weight and dimensions.

[0010] Another objective is to provide such ice skates that exhibit outstanding stability and durability.

[0011] Another objective is to provide such ice skates that enable easy exchange of blades.

[0012] Another objective is to provide ice skates in which the geometric structure of the rolling contact motion can be easily changed. means of solving the problem

[0013] These and other purposes are achieved by an ice skate as defined in the amended claim 1. An ice skate for ice skating comprises: an upper chassis section comprising a first contact surface having a front end and a rear end, a lower chassis section comprising a second contact surface having a front end and a rear end, and a coupling arrangement configured to mechanically connect the upper and lower chassis sections, the coupling arrangement comprising spring back means. At least one of the first contact surface and the second contact surface is curved. The coupling device is configured such that the upper chassis section pivots relative to the lower chassis section by a rolling contact motion between the first and second contact surfaces, so that the momentary contact region of the first and second contact surfaces moves back and forth between the front and rear ends of the first and second contact surfaces. The springback means is configured to press the momentary contact region to a neutral position located at the front end of the first and second contact surfaces. The springback means is configured entirely in front of the front end of the first and second contact surfaces.

[0014] It has been found that when using and further developing the ice skate disclosed in EP 2 696 949 B1, particularly advantageous characteristics are achieved when the springback means is configured to press the instantaneous contact area to a neutral position located at the forward end of the two contact surfaces. Thus, specific advantages are achieved if the ice skate is configured so that the user can perform only backward rolling from the neutral position where the springback means presses the instantaneous contact area. By means of this means, the user can apply force directly from the leg to the front portion of the blade without intermediate resilience or play. This allows the power applied to the front portion of the blade during the push-off phase to be transferred to the ice without substantial loss, thereby increasing power efficiency, for example, during acceleration. Naturally, this provides a significant advantage because increased power efficiency allows for faster skating speeds and / or reduced fatigue of the skater. Direct and inelastic force transfer to the front portion of the blade also improves the skater's skate control and precision, particularly during acceleration.

[0015] Additionally, the configuration of the springback means being fully positioned in front of the contact surfaces allows the length of the lever that presses the springback means instantaneously to a neutral position to be increased. By doing so, the active urging force is increased so that the springback means can be maintained relatively weakly. This ultimately reduces the total weight of the ice skate, which is very advantageous in many applications such as ice hockey skates. The increased lever length also allows the active urging force to be precisely fine-tuned to meet the specific needs and desires of various skaters.

[0016] Positioning the springback means in front of the contact surfaces also allows the springback means to be configured within the existing cavity of a front blade support member or a front post for fixing and supporting the blade configured in the toe portion of a modern conventional ice skate. By means of such means, an advantageous backward rolling function can be incorporated into the skate without substantial deviation from the conventional dimensions and shape of the modern ice skate. In particular, the springback means can be incorporated into the conventional skate without increasing external dimensions or changing the external shape. The forward positioning of the springback means also allows the springback means to be formed in many different shapes, and in particular, to be provided in a simple shape that is easy to manufacture.

[0017] According to one embodiment, the springback means is configured to engage with a first upwardly projecting engagement member of a lower chassis section.

[0018] The upper chassis section may include at least one first stop surface and the lower chassis section may include at least one second stop surface, said stop surfaces configured to prevent the momentary contact area from passing forward in front of the front ends of said first and second contact surfaces upon mutual contact. Such cooperative first and second stop surfaces remove any elasticity from the springback means to impede force transfer from the skater to the blade when the momentary contact area reaches its foremost position. Thus, the skater can firmly apply force to the toe portion of the blade, for example, during a push-off, which increases acceleration and improves the precision and feel of skating.

[0019] The first and second stop surfaces may preferably be configured in front of the front ends of the first and second contact surfaces. By this means, the rigidity to be applied at the foremost rolling position can be achieved in a simple, space-saving, and reliable manner.

[0020] The upper chassis section may include a plurality of first stop surfaces, and the lower chassis section may include an equal number of second stop surfaces. These multiple cooperative stop surfaces further ensure the stiffness to be applied at the foremost rolling position.

[0021] According to one embodiment, the upper chassis section includes at least one third stop surface and the lower chassis section includes at least one fourth stop surface, and these stop surfaces are configured to prevent the rear portion of the lower chassis section from being separated from the upper chassis section upon mutual contact.

[0022] A fourth stop surface may be formed on an upwardly protruding second interlocking member of a lower chassis section that can be received in a cavity of an upper chassis section, and then a third stop surface is formed in said cavity.

[0023] The springback means may include an injection-molded spring of polymer material. With this means, the springback means can be easily provided with desired spring characteristics and dimensions and can be produced at a low cost.

[0024] The springback means can be pivotally fixed to the upper chassis section.

[0025] The springback means may be configured to deform when the instantaneous contact area moves from a neutral position, and the upper chassis section includes a springback limiting means configured to limit the maximum deformation of the springback means. By this, the springback means can easily prevent breakage or damage in the event that the upper and lower chassis sections are unintentionally separated from each other.

[0026] According to one embodiment, the springback means is fixed to the upper chassis section and optionally configured to engage with the lower chassis section to press the momentary contact area to a neutral position and to disengage from the lower chassis section so that the lower chassis section can be removed from the upper chassis section. By doing so, the springback means provides an additional quick-release function to the ice skate. This function can be used to release the lower chassis section containing the blade so that the blade can be exchanged quickly and easily, for example, during an ice hockey game.

[0027] The springback means can pivot between an engagement position, where it engages with the lower chassis section, and a release position, where it is released from the lower chassis section.

[0028] The springback means comprises a link mechanism including a first link arm pivotally connected to an upper chassis section, a second link arm pivotally connected to the first pivot arm, and a spring configured such that the respective free ends of the first and second pivot arms press against each other. This provides a reliable, durable, and space-saving means for achieving a force that presses an instantaneous contact area to a neutral position.

[0029] The first contact surface can be configured on an interchangeable insert that is removablely fixed to an upper chassis section. This allows the curvature of the first contact surface to be easily and quickly adjusted to satisfy the individual preferences of the user.

[0030] The ice skate may further include insert retention means configured to keep the insert in the upper chassis section releaseable when the lower chassis section is removed. This can prevent the insert from being unintentionally removed when the lower chassis section is released, for example, when changing blades.

[0031] These insert retention means may include press fitting means, snap fitting means, or threaded screw means for removable retention of the insert to the upper chassis section.

[0032] The curvature of the first and / or second contact surface may exhibit a constant radius over the entire length.

[0033] Alternatively, in some applications, it may be desirable for the curvature of the first and / or second contact surfaces to vary with their length.

[0034] At least a portion of the first and / or second contact surface may exhibit a constant curvature having a radius of at least 1 m, preferably 1-10 m, more preferably 2-8 m, and most preferably 3-7 m.

[0035] At least a portion of the first and / or second contact surface may have a curvature and length configured such that when the contact area moves between the front and rear ends of the first and second contact surfaces, the maximum pivot angle is 0.5-5˚, preferably 1-3˚, most preferably about 2˚.

[0036] These curvatures and pivot angles have proven to be particularly suitable for ice skates used in ice hockey and bandy. It is believed that the same applies to ice skates for figure skating.

[0037] The upper chassis section is preferably fixed to a boot to accommodate the user's foot, and the lower chassis section preferably includes a skate blade.

[0038] The upper chassis section can preferably be injection molded from a polymer material.

[0039] In general, all terms used in the claims shall be interpreted according to their ordinary meaning in the art unless expressly otherwise defined in this specification. Any reference to “one / one / the / the / this element, device, part, component, means, step, etc.” shall be publicly interpreted as referring to at least one instance of the element, device, part, component, means, step, etc., unless otherwise expressly stated. The steps of any method disclosed herein do not need to be performed in the exact order disclosed unless expressly stated otherwise. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0040] Now, with reference to the attached drawings, embodiments and examples are described as examples: FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing upper and lower chassis sections of an ice skate according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIGS. 2a-c are cross-sectional views through the ice skates shown in FIG. 1, illustrating the respective states of the springback means. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view corresponding to FIG. 2a illustrating another embodiment. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view corresponding to FIG. 2a and FIG. 3 illustrating another embodiment. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view corresponding to FIG. 2a, 3, and 4 illustrating another embodiment. FIGS. 5a-c is a cross-sectional view corresponding to FIGS. 2a-c illustrating another embodiment. FIG. 6 is a perspective view illustrating the components illustrated in FIG. 5a-c at an enlarged scale. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0041] Aspects of the present invention will now be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which specific embodiments of the present invention are illustrated.

[0042] However, these embodiments may be implemented in many other forms and should not be construed as limiting. Rather, these embodiments are provided as examples to ensure that the disclosure is thorough and complete and to fully convey the scope of all embodiments of the invention to those skilled in the art. Throughout the description, similar numbers indicate similar elements.

[0043] FIG. 1 illustrates an upper chassis section (10) and a lower chassis section (30) of an ice skate according to an embodiment of the present invention. The ice skate is intended for use in an ice hockey game. The upper chassis section (10) is configured to be fixed to a boot (not shown) for accommodating the user's foot. The upper chassis section (10) forms a blade holder and is formed integrally by injection molding of a polymer material such as polyamide. The upper chassis section is generally hollow and includes a rear post (11), a front post (12), and a lower channel portion (13) connecting the rear (11) and front (12) posts. The channel portion (13) includes two vertical channel walls (13a, 13b) extending longitudinally from the front end of the upper chassis section (10) to the rear end. The channel walls (13a, 13b) define a longitudinally extended channel to accommodate the upper portion of the lower chassis section (30). The upper chassis section (10) further includes a reinforcing portion (14) comprising a plurality of beams interconnecting the rear post (11), the front post (12), and the channel portion (13). The rear (11) and front (12) posts each have an upper flange portion (11a, 12a) protruding laterally with a through hole (11b, 12b) for supporting and securing the boot.

[0044] The lower chassis section (30) is made of steel and includes a blade portion (31) having a lower ice contacting edge (32). By grinding the blade portion (31), any desired profile or rocker can be provided to suit the individual needs and preferences of each user. Correspondingly, the edge (32) can be sharpened into any cross-sectional geometry suitable for the ice and other conditions at hand, as well as the user's personal preference.

[0045] As can be best seen in FIGS. 1 and 2a-c, the lower chassis section (30) is formed as a single integral part. The lower chassis section may be formed, for example, by stamping, cutting, or milling a metal blank. Preferably, the lower chassis section (30) has a constant cross-sectional width, which can typically be 2-5 mm and usually about 3 mm.

[0046] The upper portion of the blade portion (31) of the lower chassis section (30) is received in a channel formed between channel walls (13a, 13b). For safe and stable guiding and lateral fixation of the lower chassis section (30), the lateral distance between the channel walls (13a, 13b) is basically equal to the cross-sectional width of the lower chassis section (30). The lower chassis section (30) further includes a plurality of protrusions extending upward from the blade portion (31) toward the upper chassis section (10). These protrusions include a first engagement member in the form of a first hook member (33) that extends upward from the blade portion (31) and is received within the cavity (12c) of the front post (12). A second engagement member in the form of a second hook member (34) extends upward from the rear end of the blade portion (31) and is received in the cavity (11c) of the rear post (11).

[0047] The upper chassis section (10) includes a first curved contact surface (15) representing a front end (15a) and a rear end (15b). In the illustrated example, the first contact surface (15) is configured as the lower edge of an exchangeable insert (16) that is removablely received in an insert cavity (17) that is open downwards in the upper chassis section (10). In an alternative not illustrated, the second contact surface is configured as a downward-facing edge surface formed integrally with the upper chassis section. The lower chassis section (30) represents a corresponding second contact surface (35) that extends along the upper edge of the blade portion (31) between the longitudinal middle and rear regions of the lower chassis section (30). The second contact surface is aligned perpendicularly to the front end (15a) and rear end (35b) of the first contact surface (15) and represents a front end (35a) aligned perpendicularly to the rear end (15a) of the first contact surface (15). The front ends (15a, 35a) are configured approximately at the longitudinal center of the lower chassis section (30), and the rear ends (15b, 35b) are configured near the rear end of the lower chassis section (30). Typically, the length of the first (15) and second (35) contact surfaces, that is, the distance between the front end (15a, 35a) and the rear end (15b, 35b), is about half the total length of the lower chassis section (30). For example, in a skate with a total length of the lower chassis section of 300 mm, the ice contact edge of the blade portion may be 200 mm and the first and second contact surfaces may be approximately 120 mm.

[0048] The first contact surface (15) is curved in the longitudinal direction. In the example shown, the curvature is constant with a radius of about 4 m. However, the radius of curvature can be selected according to, for example, the type of ice skate and the user's preference. Also, the curvature does not need to be constant but can vary over the length of the contact surface.

[0049] By forming a first contact surface (15) on a replaceable insert (16) that is removablely fixed to an upper chassis section (10), the ice skate can be easily adapted to the prevailing environment and user's needs through the easy replacement of the insert.

[0050] In the illustrated example, the second contact surface (35) is flat over its entire length. However, the second contact surface may also be curved. In other alternative, unillustrated embodiments, the lower second contact surface may be curved and the upper first contact surface may be flat.

[0051] In any case, at least one of the first (15) and second (35) contact surfaces is curved, allowing the upper chassis section (10) to pivot by rolling contact motion without a fixed point of rotation relative to the lower chassis section (30). During this relative pivoting motion, the momentary contact region (CR) between the first (15) and second (35) contact surfaces will move back and forth between the front ends (15a, 16a) and rear ends (15b, 16b) of the first (15) and second (35) contact surfaces. In FIG. 2a, the upper chassis section (10) is pivoted forward to the foremost position so that the momentary contact region (CR) is located at the front ends (15a, 35a) of the first (15) and second (15) contact surfaces. Accordingly, in FIG. 2b, the upper chassis section (10) is pivoted rearward to the rearmost position, thereby positioning the momentary contact area (CR) at the rear end (15b, 35b) of the first (15) and second (35) contact surfaces.

[0052] The ice skate further includes a coupling arrangement that connects the upper (10) and lower (30) chassis sections while allowing the relative pivot movement. The coupling arrangement includes spring back means (50) configured to elastically press the relative pivot movement forward to a neutral position where the momentary contact area (CR) is located at the front ends (15a, 35a) of the first and second contact surfaces (15, 35). This neutral position is illustrated in FIG. 2a. By applying force to the upper chassis section (10) behind the front ends (15a, 35) of the contact surfaces (15, 35), the upper chassis section (30) can be temporarily pivoted backward so that the momentary contact area (CR) moves backward toward the rear ends (15b, 35b) as illustrated in FIG. 2b. As soon as this external force is released, the springback means (50) presses relative movement back to a neutral position as shown in FIG. 2a.

[0053] In an embodiment as illustrated in FIG. 2a-c, the springback means (50) comprises a spring member (51) received in the cavity (12c) of the front post (12) of the upper chassis section (10). The spring member (51) is pivotally fixed to the front post (12) and generally comprises a U-shaped resilient arm. The first end (51a) of this arm represents a circular through hole that receives a circular stem (12d) extending laterally between the opposing sidewalls of the front post (12) through the cavity (12c) of the front post. The second end (51b) of the arm comprises a cylindrical portion having an external first engagement surface (51c) that is removably received in an engagement seat forming a second engagement surface (33a) of the first hook member (33) of the lower chassis section (30). The cylindrical portion of the second end (51b) further features a lateral recess or through opening (52) for receiving a tool (not shown), as described further below.

[0054] In the position shown in FIG. 2a, the spring member (51) is initially pre-tensioned by pivoting it to the stem (12d) and engaging with the second engagement portion (33a) of the engagement seat, thereby facilitating a relative pivot movement between the upper (10) and lower (30) chassis sections and pressing it to a neutral position pivoted to the foremost position. By applying a relative force between the upper (10) and lower (30) chassis sections behind the front ends (15a, 25a) of the contact surfaces (15, 35), the spring member is deformed and thereby additionally tensioned, allowing a rear pivot movement to the position shown in FIG. 2b. Upon release of the force, the energy stored in the spring member (51) during the additional tension causes a reverse pivot movement to the neutral position shown in FIG. 2a.

[0055] The upper chassis section (10) further includes a first stop surface (17) formed on a lower wall (19) that extends laterally to connect the side walls of the front post (12). The lower chassis section (30) represents a corresponding second stop surface (37) formed on the upper edge of the blade section (31) in the front region of the blade section (31). The first (17) and second (37) stop surfaces (37) are configured to make contact with each other when the momentary contact area (CR) reaches the front end (15a, 35a) of the contact surface (15, 35). By doing so, further pivot movement forward past the neutral position is effectively prevented. The configuration of the cooperating first (17) and second (37) stationary surfaces (37) allows any force applied to the upper chassis section (10) in the front and neutral positions of the contact surfaces (15, 35) to be transmitted directly and inelastically to the blade portion (31) without any yielding.

[0056] The lower side wall (19) of the front post (12) also provides arrest for the spring member (51). For example, if the front portion of the lower chassis section (30) is caught or snagged on a surrounding object and there is a risk that the front portion will be separated from the upper chassis section (10), the spring member (51) contacts the lower side wall (19) and thereby prevents further pivoting and extension of the spring member (51). By this means, the first engagement surface (51c) on the second end (51b) of the spring member (51) maintains engagement with the second engagement surface (33a) of the engagement seat of the first hook member (33) of the lower chassis section (30), thereby preventing the front portion of the lower chassis section (30) from being unintentionally separated from the upper chassis section (10). The lower side wall (19) also prevents the spring member (51) from being excessively deformed and tensioned during such unintended movement of the front part of the lower chassis section, thereby reducing the risk of fatigue failure of the spring member (51).

[0057] In the rear post (11), the upper chassis section (10) represents an upwardly facing third contact surface (18) configured in the lower wall portion (20) that extends laterally through the rear post cavity (11c) between the opposing side walls of the rear post (11) and the rear wall. A downwardly facing fourth stop surface (38) is configured in the second hook member (34) of the lower chassis section. The third (18) and fourth (38) stop surfaces are configured such that a small distance exists between them when the first (17) and second (30) stop surfaces are in contact with each other and the relative pivot movement is in a neutral position. Thus, the third (18) and fourth (38) stop surfaces do not contribute to defining the foremost neutral position of the relative pivot movement. Instead, the third (18) and fourth (38) stop surfaces are configured for safety purposes to prevent the rear portion of the lower chassis section (30) from accidentally separating from the upper chassis section (10) when this rear blade portion is caught or snagged on any surrounding object.

[0058] A fifth contact surface (21) facing downward is formed on the lower side of the lower wall portion (20) of the rear post (11), and a sixth stop surface (41) is formed on the upper edge of the blade portion (31) behind the second hook member (34). The fifth (21) and sixth (41) stop surfaces come into contact with each other when the momentary contact area (CR) reaches the rear ends (15b, 35b) of the first (15) and second (35) contact surfaces during the rear pivot, thereby limiting the pivot movement by passing through the final rear pivot position shown in FIG. 2b, where the momentary contact area is located at the rear ends (15b, 35b) of the contact surfaces (15, 35).

[0059] Referring to FIGS. 2a and 2c, the ice skate is further configured to allow for easy removal and replacement of the lower chassis section (30). Such replacement of the lower chassis section can be very advantageous, for example in ice hockey, where a worn blade can be quickly replaced with a sharp blade. To this end, the coupling device includes release means as described below.

[0060] At least one or both of the opposing side walls of the front post (11) are generally provided with a V-shaped through-penetrating slot (22). The slot (22) allows a pointed tool (not shown) to be inserted into a recess or through-opening (52) formed in the second end (51b) of the spring member (50). In the neutral position shown in FIG. 2a, the tool can be inserted into the recess or through-opening (52) and then pulled forward along the V-shaped slot (22) to thereby disengage the first engaging surface (51c) of the spring member (51) from the second engaging surface (33a) of the first hook member (33). FIG. 2c illustrates how the second end (51b) of the spring member (51) is pulled forward to an intermediate position in this manner under counterclockwise pivoting of the spring member (51) with respect to the stem (12d). In this intermediate position, the spring member (51) is released from the first hook member (33), so that the front portion of the lower chassis section can be pulled from the channel portion (13) of the upper chassis section (10). Subsequently, the successive removal of the front portion of the lower chassis section (30) allows the second hook member (34) to be released from the lower wall portion (20) of the rear post (12), thereby allowing the lower chassis section (30) to be completely separated from the upper chassis section (10).

[0061] To attach the same or different lower chassis section, the second hook member (34) is first inserted into the channel section (13) and engages with the lower wall section (20) of the rear post (11). Then, the front part of the lower chassis section (30) is pivoted to the front part of the channel section (13) so that the first hook member (33) is inserted into the front post (12). During this insertion, the spring member (51) may pivot counterclockwise so that its second end (51b) does not interfere with the insertion of the first hook member (33). When the lower chassis section (30) is inserted into the channel section (13) of the upper chassis section (10), a tool may be inserted through the front part of the V-shaped slot (22) and engage with the recess or through opening (52) of the second end (51b) of the spring member (51). Next, to complete the fixation of the lower chassis section, a tool is used to engage the first engagement surface (51c) of the second end (51b) with the second engagement surface (33a) of the first hook member (33). During this engagement action, the spring member (51) is pivoted clockwise and pretensioned so that the momentary contact area (CR) is reliably pressed toward the neutral position as described above.

[0062] When the lower chassis section (30) is removed from the upper chassis section (10), the replaceable insert (16) can be easily removed from the insert cavity (17). However, to prevent the insert (16) from being unintentionally removed from the cavity (17), for example, when only the lower chassis section (30) is to be replaced, the insert (16) and / or the insert cavity (17) may be provided with retention means to keep the insert (16) from falling out of the cavity (17). In the illustrated example, such releaseable retention is achieved by lightly pressing the insert (16) into the insert cavity (17). To remove the insert (16), a pointed tool (not shown), such as a screwdriver, may be inserted between the insert (16) and the cavity wall and used to bend the insert away from the press-fit engagement with the cavity (17). In alternative, unillustrated embodiments, the retaining means may include snap-fitting means, threaded screw means, etc.

[0063] FIG. 3 illustrates another embodiment of an ice skate. In this embodiment, the upper chassis section (10) and the lower chassis section (30) are essentially the same as the upper and lower chassis sections described above and illustrated in FIG. 1-2c. Therefore, these components are not described again here. However, in this embodiment, the springback means differs from the spring member (51) described above. Here, the springback means comprises a torsion spring (6o) made of spring steel wire and including a central coil (61). A first leg (62) having a first end (62a) and a second leg (63) having a second end (63a) extend from the central coil (61). The first end (61a) represents a circular through hole that accommodates the side stem (12d) of the front post (12) of the upper chassis section (10) so that the torsion spring (60) is pivotally fixed to the front post (12) and received in the front post cavity (12c). By this means, the torsion spring (60) is pivotally fixed to the front post (12) of the upper chassis section (10). The second end (63a) includes an annular loop having a first engagement surface (63c) that can be received in the second engagement surface (33a) of the engagement seat of the first hook member (33) of the lower chassis section (30). This annular loop also defines an inner through hole capable of accommodating a tool (not shown) for moving the second end along the V-shaped slot (22) of the front post (12) when the first engaging surface (63c) engages with the second engaging surface (33a) of the first hook member for releasing and attaching the lower chassis section (30) to the upper chassis section (10).

[0064] The torsion spring (60) functions in the same way as the spring member (51) described above to press the momentary contact area of ​​the first (15) and second (35) contact surfaces toward the front end (15a, 35a) and to allow the lower chassis section (30) to be attached to and released from the upper chassis section (10).

[0065] FIG. 4 illustrates another embodiment of an ice skate. Also, in this embodiment, the upper chassis section (10) and the lower chassis section (30) are essentially the same as the upper and lower chassis sections described above and illustrated in FIG. 1-2c. Therefore, these components are not described again here. In this embodiment, the springback means differs from the spring member (51) described above. Here, the springback means comprises a coiled expansion spring (70) made of spring steel wire and comprising a central coil (71). A first hook (72) and a second hook (73) extend from each end of the central coil (71). The first hook (72) is hooked onto the side stem (12d) of the front post (12) of the upper chassis section (10). The second hook (73) has a first engagement surface (73c) that engages with the second engagement surface (33a) of the first hook member (33a) of the lower chassis section (30).

[0066] The coil expansion spring (70) functions in the same way as the spring member (51) described above to press the momentary contact area of ​​the first (15) and second (35) contact surfaces toward the front end (15a, 35a) and to allow the lower chassis section (30) to be attached to and released from the upper chassis section (10).

[0067] FIGS. 5a-b and FIGS. 6 illustrate another embodiment of an ice skate. Also, in this embodiment, the upper chassis section (10) and the lower chassis section (30) are essentially the same as the upper and lower chassis sections described above and illustrated in FIGS. 1-4. Therefore, these components are not described again here. In this embodiment, the springback means (80) differs from the spring members (51, 60, 70) described above. Here, the springback means (80) includes a link mechanism that is received in the front post cavity (12c) and includes a first link arm (81), a second link arm (82), and a coiled expansion spring (83). The first link arm (81) has a circular through opening (84) that accommodates the stem (12d) of the front post (12) of the upper chassis section so that the first link arm (81) is pivotally fixed to the front post (12) of the upper chassis section (10).

[0068] The first arm (81) includes a first lever portion (85) extending forward and a second lever portion (86) extending rearward from the through hole (8). The first end (82a) of the second link arm (82) is pivotally connected to the free end of the second lever portion (86). The second end (82b) of the second link arm (82) includes a rounded portion having a first engaging surface (82c) that is releasedly received on the second engaging surface (33a) of the first hook member (33) of the lower chassis section (30). The second end (82b) further represents a side recess or through opening (82d) for receiving a tool (not shown). The spring (83) includes a first hooked end (83a) connected to the first lever portion (85) of the first link arm (81) and a second hooked end (83b) connected to the second end (82b) of the second pivot arm (82). By this means, the spring (83) is configured to press the first lever portion (85) of the first pivot arm and the second end (82b) of the second pivot arm (82) toward each other during relative pivot movement around the pivot connection between the second lever portion (86) of the first pivot arm (81) and the first end (82a) of the second pivot arm (82).

[0069] FIG. 5a illustrates a method in which a link mechanism presses a momentary contact area (CR) to a foremost neutral position where the front end (15a) of the first contact surface (15) and the front end (35a) of the second contact surface (35) come into mutual contact. In FIG. 5b, an external force is applied to the upper chassis section (10) behind the front end (15a) of the first contact surface (15) so that the momentary contact area (CR) moves to a foremost rear position where the rear ends (15b, 35b) of the first (15) and second (35) contact surfaces come into mutual contact. At this position and any intermediate position of the momentary contact area (CR), the link mechanism presses, i.e., urges, the momentary contact area (CR) to return to the foremost neutral position shown in FIG. 5a. When the link mechanism is extended to the position shown in FIG. 5b, the second end (82b) of the second pivot arm (82) contacts the lower transverse wall (19) of the front post (12), thereby limiting the movement of the second limit arm (82) and avoiding excessive extension of the spring (81).

[0070] FIG. 5c illustrates a method in which a pointed tool (not shown) is inserted into a through opening (82d) of the second arm (82) of the link mechanism and, by pulling the tool forward, the first engaging surface (82c) of the second end (82b) is released from engaging with the second engaging surface (33a) of the first hook member (33) of the lower chassis section (30). During this operation, the pointed tool is inserted into the front post cavity (12) through an unillustrated slot formed in one or two side walls of the front post (12). When the link mechanism is released from the lower chassis section (30) by this means, the lower chassis section (30) can be easily removed and replaced as described above. After inserting the new lower chassis section into the channel section (18), the lower chassis section (30) is fixed to the upper chassis section using a pointed tool (not shown) so that the first engaging surface (82c) of the second link arm (82) engages with the second engaging surface (33a) of the first hook member (33) of the lower chassis section.

[0071] Aspects of the present invention have been described above with reference to some embodiments and examples. However, a person skilled in the art will readily understand that other embodiments and examples other than those disclosed above are equally possible within the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

Claim 1 As an ice skate for ice skating, the ice skate comprises: an upper chassis section (10) having a first contact surface (15) having a front end (15a) and a rear end (15b); and a lower chassis section (30) having a second contact surface (35) having a front end (35a) and a rear end (35b); A coupling device comprising a springback means (50, 60, 70, 80), comprising a coupling device configured to mechanically connect the upper (10) and lower (30) chassis sections, wherein at least one of the first contact surface (15) and the second contact surface (35) is curved, and the coupling device is configured such that the upper chassis section (10) pivots relative to the lower chassis section (30) by a rolling contact movement between the first contact surface (15) and the second contact surface (35), so that the momentary contact area (CR) of the first contact surface (15) and the second contact surface (35) moves back and forth between the front (15a, 35a) and rear (15b, 35b) ends of the first contact surface (15) and the second contact surface (35), and the springback means (50, 60, 70, 80) moves the momentary contact area (CR) to the first contact An ice skate configured to press to a neutral position located at the front ends (15a, 35a) of the surface (15) and the second contact surface (35), and the springback means (50, 60, 70, 80) configured entirely in front of the front ends (15a, 35a) of the first contact surface (15) and the second contact surface (35). Claim 2 An ice skate according to claim 1, wherein the springback means (50, 60, 70, 80) is configured to engage with the upwardly protruding first engaging member (33) of the lower chassis section (30). Claim 3 An ice skate according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the upper chassis section (10) comprises at least one first stop surface (17) and the lower chassis section (30) comprises at least one second stop surface (37), and the stop surfaces are configured to prevent the momentary contact area (CR) from passing forward in front of the front ends (15a, 35a) of the first contact surface (15) and the second contact surface (35) when in mutual contact. Claim 4 In paragraph 3, the first stopping surface (17) and the second stopping surface (37) are formed in front of the front ends (15a, 35a) of the first contact surface (15) and the second contact surface (35), forming an ice skate. Claim 5 An ice skate according to paragraph 3, wherein the upper chassis section (10) comprises at least one third stopping surface (18) and the lower chassis section (30) comprises at least one fourth stopping surface (38), and the third stopping surface and the fourth stopping surface are configured to prevent the rear portion of the lower chassis section (30) from being separated from the upper chassis section (10) upon mutual contact. Claim 6 In claim 1 or 2, the springback means (50, 60, 70, 80) is pivotally fixed to the upper chassis section (10), an ice skate. Claim 7 An ice skate according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the springback means (50, 60, 70, 80) is configured to deform when the instantaneous contact area (CR) moves from a neutral position, and the upper chassis section (10) includes a springback limiting means (19) configured to limit the maximum deformation of the springback means (50, 60, 70, 80). Claim 8 An ice skate according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the springback means (50, 60, 70, 80) is fixed to the upper chassis section (10) and configured to engage with the lower chassis section (10) so as to press the momentary contact area (CR) to the neutral position or to be disengaged from the lower chassis section (30) so as to allow the lower chassis section (30) to be removed from the upper chassis section (10). Claim 9 In claim 8, the springback means (50, 60, 70, 80) pivots between an engaging position that engages with the lower chassis section (30) and an releasing position that disengages from the lower chassis section (30), an ice skate. Claim 10 An ice skate according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the spring back means (80) comprises a link mechanism including a first link arm (81) pivotally connected to the upper chassis section (10), a second link arm pivotally connected to the first link arm (81), and a spring (83) configured such that the respective free ends of the first link arm (81) and the second link arm (82) press against each other. Claim 11 An ice skate according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first contact surface (15) is configured on an interchangeable insert (16) that is removablely fixed to the upper chassis section (10). Claim 12 An ice skate according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the curvature of the first contact surface (15) or the second contact surface (35) has a constant radius over its entire length. Claim 13 An ice skate according to claim 1 or 2, wherein at least a portion of the first contact surface (15) or the second contact surface (35) exhibits a constant curvature having a radius of 1 m or more. Claim 14 An ice skate according to claim 1 or 2, wherein at least a portion of the first contact surface (15) or the second contact surface (35) has a curvature and length configured such that when the contact area moves between the front and rear ends of the first contact surface and the second contact surface, the maximum pivot angle is between 1 and 10°. Claim 15 An ice skate according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the upper chassis section (10) is fixed to a boot for accommodating the user's foot and the lower chassis section (30) includes a skate blade.

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