Adjustable weight-responsive skateboard brake apparatus

Abstract

A skateboard brake apparatus for decelerating a skateboard by selectively engaging a brake includes a truck for holding a skateboard wheel, a truck mount attached to the skateboard deck, and a pivot dowel rotationally coupling the truck and mount. An adjustable brake pad is mounted to the truck mount. An adjustment bolt and a welded nut modify the brake pad's distance from the wheel. A rubber bushing biases the truck to a default position where the brake pad is spaced from the wheel. When weight is applied to the skateboard's rear, the truck pivots about the dowel, pressing the wheel against the brake pad. This design improves safety and stability during braking.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority of U.S. provisional application No. 63 / 665,764, filed Jun. 28, 2024, the contents of which are herein incorporated by reference.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates to sports equipment and, more particularly, to braking mechanisms for skateboards.

[0003] Skateboarding has evolved into a popular sport, recreational activity, and even a mode of transportation that attracts a broad spectrum of users. As participation has increased, so too has the emphasis on safety and control, particularly under dynamic riding conditions. Skateboards can travel at high speeds, or in areas of extreme congestion from both pedestrian and automotive traffic, where the ability to slowdown or stop a skateboard is of paramount importance. Riders are often exposed to varied terrains and unpredictable environments, which can require rapid adjustments during use. Every year, dozens are injured in mostly preventable skateboarding-related accidents.

[0004] In many standard skateboard configurations, riders are challenged by methods of stopping that often require abrupt shifts in weight or unplanned alterations to their stance. Traditionally, skateboards have not been provided with an integral mechanism to slowdown or stop, and instead rely on frictional forces, such as a rider's foot dragging, surface friction, etc., to stop. These traditional approaches can reduce stability during moments requiring heightened precision, especially when a quick adjustment is needed. Prior attempts at providing braking systems include installing a rubber puck to an underside of the skateboard deck, but braking in this manner requires a rider to tilt the deck to extreme angles. More recently, braking systems for skateboards have been provided that include mechanisms for actuating a skateboard brake, which require additional components to be installed on, or around, the deck of the board. These components are cumbersome and take away deck surface area for the rider.

[0005] As can be seen, there is a need for a skateboard braking apparatus that enhances stability, reduces the risk of falls, and does not require significant deck tilting or foot placement on the ground.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] In one aspect of the present invention, an adjustable skateboard brake apparatus comprises a truck configured to rotatably support a skateboard wheel, a truck mount adapted for attachment to a skateboard deck, a pivot dowel that connects the truck to the truck mount, a brake pad mounted to the truck mount, and a resilient rubber bushing positioned between the truck and the truck mount to bias the truck toward a non-braking position. Rearward weight applied on the skateboard deck causes the truck to rotate about the dowel, thereby bringing the brake pad into engagement with the skateboard wheel to effect braking.

[0007] In additional embodiments, the pivot dowel is strategically positioned forward of the vertical center of the skateboard wheel to enhance responsive pivoting. An adjustment assembly is provided which includes an adjustable bolt extending through the skateboard deck and a nut secured within the truck mount, whereby rotation of the bolt adjusts the brake pad's position relative to the skateboard wheel. The resilient rubber bushing comprises an elastomer selected from natural rubber, synthetic rubber, or polyurethane, and the truck mount includes one or more mounting holes designed to receive fastening hardware for securing the mount to the skateboard deck. The pivot dowel is further secured within corresponding apertures in the truck and truck mount by means of securing clips, and the apparatus is configured to engage the brake pad against the skateboard wheel when rearward weight exceeding fifty percent of the rider's total body weight is applied.

[0008] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following drawings, description, and claims.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] FIG. 1 is a detailed rear perspective view of a skateboard brake apparatus, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0010] FIG. 2 is a detailed bottom perspective view thereof;

[0011] FIG. 3 is another detailed bottom perspective view thereof;

[0012] FIG. 4 is an exploded view thereof;

[0013] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view thereof, taken along line 5-5 of FIG. 2;

[0014] and

[0015] FIG. 6 is another cross-sectional view thereof, taken along line 6-6 of FIG. 3.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0016] The following detailed description is of the best currently contemplated modes of carrying out exemplary embodiments of the invention. The description is not to be taken in a limiting sense but is made merely for the purpose of illustrating the general principles of the invention, since the scope of the invention is best defined by the appended claims.

[0017] Broadly, one embodiment of the present invention is an adjustable, weight-responsive braking apparatus integrally installed on a wheel system of a skateboard.

[0018] The braking apparatus of the present subject matter may comprise a truck brake, a brake mount, an adjustment bolt, a connector nut, a weld nut, a steel pivot dowel, clips, a brake bushing, and a brake pad. The brake mount may have holes formed therein to accept fastening hardware as well as reinforcements.

[0019] The number of wheels to which the braking apparatus is applied is not particularly limited.

[0020] In some embodiments, the brake truck may be affixed to a hinge that enables the rear wheel assembly of a double rear wheeled skateboard to pivot. The skateboard may be provided with larger skateboard bushings than otherwise installed for the return action. The brake pad(s) may be affixed over each rear wheel such that pressing down on the rear kicktail of the riding deck lowers the rear of the skateboard toward the rear wheels until the brake pads contact the wheels.

[0021] The braking apparatus disclosed herein does not require a skateboard riding deck tilted at an extreme angle to work. Rather, it operates when pressure is applied to the rear kicktail of the riding deck, with settings that are adjustable by the user. The brake is engaged when the rider moves more than 50% of their body weight to the rear of the riding deck. Moreover, it may help prevent falls because as the rider loses their balance towards the rear of the board, more weight is imparted on the rear of the riding deck, initiating braking.

[0022] The materials of manufacture are not particularly limited. The brake components may be manufactured of resin and may be mounted on a steel pivot dowel. Rubber bushing may also be installed in a channel formed in the truck brake. Fastening hardware may include, for example, metal bolts.

[0023] In the context of skateboards, a “truck” refers to the metal or polymer assembly that connects the skateboard deck to the wheels. This assembly functions as the structural element that secures the wheels and facilitates their rotation and pivoting, allowing the skateboard to turn and maneuver.

[0024] When the rider shifts their weight to the rear of the skateboard, the truck pivots about a pivot dowel, causing a brake pad (housed in the truck mount) to press against the wheel. This friction slows down the skateboard. Once the rider's weight is removed, a rubber bushing pushes the truck back to the original position, thereby disengaging the brake.

[0025] Referring to FIGS. 1-6, FIG. 1 illustrates a skateboard brake apparatus 10, which integrates various components to provide a weight-responsive braking mechanism for skateboards. The figure includes a skateboard deck 12 with a rear wheel 16 pivotally fastened to a frame or truck 14 by way of a pin, pivot dowel, or axle 22. The skateboard deck 12 provides a platform for the rider.

[0026] FIGS. 2-3 illustrate the skateboard brake mechanism. A rubber bushing or insert 26 is fastened within the braking system. This bushing 26 functions as a spring, returning the truck 14 to its default, non-braking position when the rider's weight is no longer applied. The truck 14 is tiltably fastened to a truck mount or brake pad connector 28 by way of a pivot dowel or axle 22. A brake pad 24 is mounted to the brake pad connector 28 within the truck 14. When the rider's weight is applied to the rear kicktail 12, the truck pivots about the pivot dowel 22, bringing the wheel 16 into contact with the brake pad 24 to generate friction and to decelerate the skateboard.

[0027] FIG. 4 shows the rear kicktail area 12 of the skateboard deck 10 fastened by bolts 20 to the truck mount 28. A weld nut is positioned between the deck 10 and the mount 28. The rubber insert 26 rests in a channel formed in an upper surface of the truck 14. The truck 14 houses the axle 22 which supports the wheel 16.

[0028] FIGS. 5-6 illustrate movement of the assembly which allows the rider's weight to actuate the brake by pivoting the truck 14 about its pivot dowel 22 and bringing the brake pad 24 into contact with the wheel 16. The brake pad 24 is adjustable to suit varying user preferences and riding conditions. An adjustment bolt extends through the deck 10 and engages a connector nut, allowing for fine-tuning the distance between the brake pad 24 and the wheel 16. Additional bolts 20 extend through the brake mount 28 and brake pad 24 to stabilize the assembly.

[0029] It should be understood, of course, that the foregoing relates to exemplary embodiments of the invention and that modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the following claims.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0016]The following detailed description is of the best currently contemplated modes of carrying out exemplary embodiments of the invention. The description is not to be taken in a limiting sense but is made merely for the purpose of illustrating the general principles of the invention, since the scope of the invention is best defined by the appended claims.

[0017]Broadly, one embodiment of the present invention is an adjustable, weight-responsive braking apparatus integrally installed on a wheel system of a skateboard.

[0018]The braking apparatus of the present subject matter may comprise a truck brake, a brake mount, an adjustment bolt, a connector nut, a weld nut, a steel pivot dowel, clips, a brake bushing, and a brake pad. The brake mount may have holes formed therein to accept fastening hardware as well as reinforcements.

[0019]The number of wheels to which the braking apparatus is applied is not particularly limited.

[0020]In some embodiments, the brake truck may be affixed to a ...

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority of U.S. provisional application No. 63 / 665,764, filed Jun. 28, 2024, the contents of which are herein incorporated by reference.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates to sports equipment and, more particularly, to braking mechanisms for skateboards.

[0003] Skateboarding has evolved into a popular sport, recreational activity, and even a mode of transportation that attracts a broad spectrum of users. As participation has increased, so too has the emphasis on safety and control, particularly under dynamic riding conditions. Skateboards can travel at high speeds, or in areas of extreme congestion from both pedestrian and automotive traffic, where the ability to slowdown or stop a skateboard is of paramount importance. Riders are often exposed to varied terrains and unpredictable environments, which can require rapid adjustments during use. Every year, dozens are injured in mostly preventable skateboarding-related accidents.

[0004] In many standard skateboard configurations, riders are challenged by methods of stopping that often require abrupt shifts in weight or unplanned alterations to their stance. Traditionally, skateboards have not been provided with an integral mechanism to slowdown or stop, and instead rely on frictional forces, such as a rider's foot dragging, surface friction, etc., to stop. These traditional approaches can reduce stability during moments requiring heightened precision, especially when a quick adjustment is needed. Prior attempts at providing braking systems include installing a rubber puck to an underside of the skateboard deck, but braking in this manner requires a rider to tilt the deck to extreme angles. More recently, braking systems for skateboards have been provided that include mechanisms for actuating a skateboard brake, which require additional components to be installed on, or around, the deck of the board. These components are cumbersome and take away deck surface area for the rider.

[0005] As can be seen, there is a need for a skateboard braking apparatus that enhances stability, reduces the risk of falls, and does not require significant deck tilting or foot placement on the ground.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] In one aspect of the present invention, an adjustable skateboard brake apparatus comprises a truck configured to rotatably support a skateboard wheel, a truck mount adapted for attachment to a skateboard deck, a pivot dowel that connects the truck to the truck mount, a brake pad mounted to the truck mount, and a resilient rubber bushing positioned between the truck and the truck mount to bias the truck toward a non-braking position. Rearward weight applied on the skateboard deck causes the truck to rotate about the dowel, thereby bringing the brake pad into engagement with the skateboard wheel to effect braking.

[0007] In additional embodiments, the pivot dowel is strategically positioned forward of the vertical center of the skateboard wheel to enhance responsive pivoting. An adjustment assembly is provided which includes an adjustable bolt extending through the skateboard deck and a nut secured within the truck mount, whereby rotation of the bolt adjusts the brake pad's position relative to the skateboard wheel. The resilient rubber bushing comprises an elastomer selected from natural rubber, synthetic rubber, or polyurethane, and the truck mount includes one or more mounting holes designed to receive fastening hardware for securing the mount to the skateboard deck. The pivot dowel is further secured within corresponding apertures in the truck and truck mount by means of securing clips, and the apparatus is configured to engage the brake pad against the skateboard wheel when rearward weight exceeding fifty percent of the rider's total body weight is applied.

[0008] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following drawings, description, and claims.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] FIG. 1 is a detailed rear perspective view of a skateboard brake apparatus, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0010] FIG. 2 is a detailed bottom perspective view thereof;

[0011] FIG. 3 is another detailed bottom perspective view thereof;

[0012] FIG. 4 is an exploded view thereof;

[0013] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view thereof, taken along line 5-5 of FIG. 2;

[0014] and

[0015] FIG. 6 is another cross-sectional view thereof, taken along line 6-6 of FIG. 3.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0016] The following detailed description is of the best currently contemplated modes of carrying out exemplary embodiments of the invention. The description is not to be taken in a limiting sense but is made merely for the purpose of illustrating the general principles of the invention, since the scope of the invention is best defined by the appended claims.

[0017] Broadly, one embodiment of the present invention is an adjustable, weight-responsive braking apparatus integrally installed on a wheel system of a skateboard.

[0018] The braking apparatus of the present subject matter may comprise a truck brake, a brake mount, an adjustment bolt, a connector nut, a weld nut, a steel pivot dowel, clips, a brake bushing, and a brake pad. The brake mount may have holes formed therein to accept fastening hardware as well as reinforcements.

[0019] The number of wheels to which the braking apparatus is applied is not particularly limited.

[0020] In some embodiments, the brake truck may be affixed to a hinge that enables the rear wheel assembly of a double rear wheeled skateboard to pivot. The skateboard may be provided with larger skateboard bushings than otherwise installed for the return action. The brake pad(s) may be affixed over each rear wheel such that pressing down on the rear kicktail of the riding deck lowers the rear of the skateboard toward the rear wheels until the brake pads contact the wheels.

[0021] The braking apparatus disclosed herein does not require a skateboard riding deck tilted at an extreme angle to work. Rather, it operates when pressure is applied to the rear kicktail of the riding deck, with settings that are adjustable by the user. The brake is engaged when the rider moves more than 50% of their body weight to the rear of the riding deck. Moreover, it may help prevent falls because as the rider loses their balance towards the rear of the board, more weight is imparted on the rear of the riding deck, initiating braking.

[0022] The materials of manufacture are not particularly limited. The brake components may be manufactured of resin and may be mounted on a steel pivot dowel. Rubber bushing may also be installed in a channel formed in the truck brake. Fastening hardware may include, for example, metal bolts.

[0023] In the context of skateboards, a “truck” refers to the metal or polymer assembly that connects the skateboard deck to the wheels. This assembly functions as the structural element that secures the wheels and facilitates their rotation and pivoting, allowing the skateboard to turn and maneuver.

[0024] When the rider shifts their weight to the rear of the skateboard, the truck pivots about a pivot dowel, causing a brake pad (housed in the truck mount) to press against the wheel. This friction slows down the skateboard. Once the rider's weight is removed, a rubber bushing pushes the truck back to the original position, thereby disengaging the brake.

[0025] Referring to FIGS. 1-6, FIG. 1 illustrates a skateboard brake apparatus 10, which integrates various components to provide a weight-responsive braking mechanism for skateboards. The figure includes a skateboard deck 12 with a rear wheel 16 pivotally fastened to a frame or truck 14 by way of a pin, pivot dowel, or axle 22. The skateboard deck 12 provides a platform for the rider.

[0026] FIGS. 2-3 illustrate the skateboard brake mechanism. A rubber bushing or insert 26 is fastened within the braking system. This bushing 26 functions as a spring, returning the truck 14 to its default, non-braking position when the rider's weight is no longer applied. The truck 14 is tiltably fastened to a truck mount or brake pad connector 28 by way of a pivot dowel or axle 22. A brake pad 24 is mounted to the brake pad connector 28 within the truck 14. When the rider's weight is applied to the rear kicktail 12, the truck pivots about the pivot dowel 22, bringing the wheel 16 into contact with the brake pad 24 to generate friction and to decelerate the skateboard.

[0027] FIG. 4 shows the rear kicktail area 12 of the skateboard deck 10 fastened by bolts 20 to the truck mount 28. A weld nut is positioned between the deck 10 and the mount 28. The rubber insert 26 rests in a channel formed in an upper surface of the truck 14. The truck 14 houses the axle 22 which supports the wheel 16.

[0028] FIGS. 5-6 illustrate movement of the assembly which allows the rider's weight to actuate the brake by pivoting the truck 14 about its pivot dowel 22 and bringing the brake pad 24 into contact with the wheel 16. The brake pad 24 is adjustable to suit varying user preferences and riding conditions. An adjustment bolt extends through the deck 10 and engages a connector nut, allowing for fine-tuning the distance between the brake pad 24 and the wheel 16. Additional bolts 20 extend through the brake mount 28 and brake pad 24 to stabilize the assembly.

[0029] It should be understood, of course, that the foregoing relates to exemplary embodiments of the invention and that modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the following claims.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0016]The following detailed description is of the best currently contemplated modes of carrying out exemplary embodiments of the invention. The description is not to be taken in a limiting sense but is made merely for the purpose of illustrating the general principles of the invention, since the scope of the invention is best defined by the appended claims.

[0017]Broadly, one embodiment of the present invention is an adjustable, weight-responsive braking apparatus integrally installed on a wheel system of a skateboard.

[0018]The braking apparatus of the present subject matter may comprise a truck brake, a brake mount, an adjustment bolt, a connector nut, a weld nut, a steel pivot dowel, clips, a brake bushing, and a brake pad. The brake mount may have holes formed therein to accept fastening hardware as well as reinforcements.

[0019]The number of wheels to which the braking apparatus is applied is not particularly limited.

[0020]In some embodiments, the brake truck may be affixed to a ...

Claims

1. An adjustable skateboard brake apparatus, comprising:a truck configured to rotatably support a skateboard wheel;a truck mount configured for attachment to a skateboard deck;a pivot dowel pivotally coupling the truck to the truck mount;a brake pad mounted to the truck mount; anda resilient bushing interposed between the truck and the truck mount and configured to bias the truck toward a non-braking position;whereby rearward weight applied by a rider on the skateboard deck causes the truck to pivot about the pivot dowel to bring the brake pad into engagement with the skateboard wheel to effect braking.

2. The adjustable skateboard brake apparatus of claim 1, wherein the pivot dowel is positioned forward of a vertical center of the skateboard wheel to facilitate responsive pivoting of the truck.

3. The adjustable skateboard brake apparatus of claim 1, further comprising an adjustment assembly operatively connected to the brake pad, the adjustment assembly comprising:an adjustable bolt extending through the skateboard deck; anda nut housed within the truck mount and affixed to the adjustable bolt.

4. The adjustable skateboard brake apparatus of claim 3, wherein rotation of the adjustable bolt adjusts the position of the brake pad relative to the skateboard wheel.

5. The adjustable skateboard brake apparatus of claim 1, wherein the resilient bushing comprises an elastomer selected from the group consisting of: natural rubber; synthetic rubber; and polyurethane.

6. The adjustable skateboard brake apparatus of claim 1, wherein the truck mount further comprises: one or more mounting holes configured to receive fastening hardware; and fastening hardware for securing the truck mount to the skateboard deck.

7. The adjustable skateboard brake apparatus of claim 1, wherein the pivot dowel is secured within corresponding hardware apertures in the truck and the truck mount by one or more securing clips.

8. The adjustable skateboard brake apparatus of claim 1, wherein the brake apparatus is configured to engage the brake pad against the skateboard wheel upon application of rearward weight exceeding fifty percent of the rider's total body weight.

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