Skateboard truck protector and grinding aid

Abstract

A truck guard assembly for a truck of a skateboard is provided. The assembly can include a guard body having an outer grinding wear surface configured to contact a riding surface during use, a central cavity for receiving a portion of the truck therein, and a coupling latch hingedly coupled to the guard body. The coupling latch can be rotatable between a closed position, enclosing the central cavity, and an open position, for installation or removal of the assembly with respect to the truck without removing the truck from the skateboard. The elongate guard body can further include a relief cut for clearance from the truck when installed, and a flint channel extending at least partially along the outer grinding wear surface and configured to receive a flint rod therein. The flint channel can have a necked down portion to retain the flint rod within the flint channel during use.

Description

BACKGROUND

[0001] Skateboarding is a popular sport and recreational activity that involves riding and performing tricks on a skateboard. A skateboard typically includes a deck and trucks operably coupling wheels to the deck. The trucks are T-shaped components mounted to the underside of the deck that house the axle connecting the wheels to the board. The trucks play a crucial role in the maneuverability and performance of the skateboard, providing ground clearance, facilitating steering, and providing stability during tricks and turns.

[0002] One of the fundamental aspects of skateboarding is performing tricks that involve grinding and sliding on various surfaces, such as rails, ledges, and curbs. During these maneuvers, the skateboard trucks make direct contact with the grinding surface, resulting in substantial wear and tear. This repetitive grinding action can lead to significant damage to the trucks, affecting their performance and longevity. Common issues include deformation, cracking, and excessive wear of the grinding surfaces, which can compromise the safety and reliability of the skateboard, and lead to expensive repairs.

[0003] Conventional skateboard trucks are typically made from aluminum or other metal alloys, chosen for their strength and lightweight properties. However, even these materials can deteriorate quickly under the intense and repetitive forces experienced during grinding. The grinding damage not only shortens the lifespan of the trucks but also necessitates frequent replacements, leading to increased costs for skateboarders.

[0004] Various solutions have been proposed to address the issue of truck damage from grinding. These include using harder metals and applying protective coatings to the grinding surfaces. Despite these efforts, the challenge remains to develop a skateboard truck that can withstand the rigors of grinding while maintaining performance and affordability. Therefore, a need exists for a skateboard truck protector that enhances durability and resistance to grinding damage to extend the life of skateboard trucks, reduce maintenance and replacement costs, and improve the overall experience for skateboarders.DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0005] The foregoing aspects and many of the attendant advantages of the claimed subject matter will become more readily appreciated as the same become better understood by reference to the following detailed description, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0006] FIGS. 1A and 1B show front and rear perspective views and FIG. 1C shows a side view of an embodiment of a latching truck guard assembly in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, showing a first coupling latch in an open position and a second coupling latch in a closed position;

[0007] FIG. 1D shows a bottom view the latching truck guard assembly of FIGS. 1A-1C, with the first and second coupling latches in the closed positions;

[0008] FIGS. 1E and 1F show a front view of the latching truck guard assembly of FIGS. 1A-1C, with the first coupling latch in the open position and the second coupling latch in the closed position (FIG. 1E), and with both of the first and second coupling latches in the open positions (FIG. 1F);

[0009] FIGS. 2A and 2B show side views of the latching truck guard assembly of FIGS. 1A-1C installed around a skateboard truck, with the first coupling latch in the open position and the second coupling latch in the closed position (FIG. 2A), and with both of the first and second coupling latches in the closed positions (FIG. 2B).

[0010] FIGS. 3A and 3B show perspective and bottom views of an embodiment of a latching truck guard assembly having a flint channel in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, showing a first coupling latch in a closed position and a second coupling latch in an open position; and

[0011] FIG. 3C is an exploded perspective view of the latching truck guard assembly of FIGS. 3A and 3B, with representative flint rods operably couplable to the latching truck guard assembly in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0012] The detailed description set forth above in connection with the appended drawings, where like numerals reference like elements, are intended as a description of various embodiments of the present disclosure and are not intended to represent the only embodiments. Each embodiment described in this disclosure is provided merely as an example or illustration and should not be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments. The illustrative examples provided herein are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to the precise forms disclosed.

[0013] The present disclosure relates to the field of skateboard trucks and, more specifically, to a skateboard truck protector assembly that enhances durability and resistance to grinding damage. Embodiments disclosed herein are expected address at least some of the challenges associated with existing skateboard truck protection attempts, offering an enhanced solution to extend the life of skateboard trucks, reduce maintenance and replacement costs, and improve the overall experience for skateboarders.

[0014] Although embodiments of the present disclosure may be described with reference to standard skateboard trucks suitable for skateboard systems, one skilled in the relevant art will appreciate that the disclosed embodiments are illustrative in nature and therefore should not be construed as limited to such an application. It should therefore be apparent that the disclosed technologies and methodologies have wide application, and therefore may be suitable for use with many types of skateboard truck architecture, including different types of trucks, various configurations, sizes, performance levels, and the like. Additionally, the embodiments disclosed herein can be used for other equipment, such as roller skates, scooters, etc. Accordingly, the following descriptions and illustrations herein should not limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0015] As will be described in more detail below, the present disclosure provides examples of skateboard truck protectors to reduce or eliminate damage to skateboard truck components during riding, particularly during grinding maneuvers where the riding surface contacts a lower portion of the truck laterally between the wheels. Embodiments of the present disclosure shown in the FIGURES include a latching skateboard truck protector assembly (the “assembly”) having at least a one-piece guard body component with capturing latches for operably coupling the latching assembly to the truck. The guard body component, once installed to the truck, is configured to substantially surround the portion of the truck that contacts the riding surface during grinding. As used herein, the term “riding surface” is intended to refer to concrete lips, curbs, railings, half-pipe coping, pool coping, and any other riding surface that is suitable for grinding maneuvers. The coverage of the truck by the assembly is intended to protect the truck components during grinding and other maneuvers that would otherwise contact the truck components directly, wearing and potentially damaging material of the truck, requiring replacement. In some embodiments, individual components of the assembly can be replaceable without needing to replace the entire assembly, such as the flint rods (see FIGS. 3A-3C), the capturing latches, hinge pins, etc.

[0016] Embodiments of the assemblies described herein can be formed and / or molded from various suitable materials, such as high-durability, low-friction synthetic or semi-synthetic polymers (plastics), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polycarbonate, polylactic acid (PLA), glass fiber reinforced ABS, carbon fiber weave, carbon fiber reinforced PLA, carbon fiber reinforced nylon, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), and any combinations thereof, including other suitable materials. The assembly can be configured as a latching truck protector with skateboard trick sliding capabilities enabling the user to negotiate steep concrete lips, curbs, railings, and pool coping without the truck contacting the riding surface. The assemblies disclosed herein may include low-friction materials to avoid the assembly sticking on the grinding surface and abruptly halting the progress of the rider, which can lead to failure of the trick. Embodiments of the present disclosure are suitable for use in street riding, pool, skate park, halfpipe, novelty, and transition riding, including specific applications such as grinding of asphalt pump track pinnacles.

[0017] The assemblies of the present disclosure can include a smooth grinding surface that covers at least the bottom portion of the skateboard truck and prevents the trucks from scraping against any coarse terrain or obstacles, which ensures there will be no damage and / or degradation to the metal truck structure. The embodiments disclosed herein can additionally permit grinding on terrain having sharp or abrasive edges, which would otherwise cause increased friction with the truck components and not be suitable for grinding. In this regard, use of the truck protectors of the present disclosure can avoid increased wear and unexpected rider unbalancing (which can lead to a wipeout). In some embodiments, the assemblies disclosed herein can slide on higher friction surfaces / edges with reduced resistance compared to grinding on bare truck geometries, enabling the rider to negotiate grinds on a wider variety of surfaces than a conventional skateboard configuration.

[0018] The variety of configurations of skateboard trucks requires at least partially tailored fitment of the grinding surface covering component. The mounting plate of the truck is bolted to the skateboard deck, and the wheels are rotatably coupled to each end of the axle, which is narrower than the wheels. Embodiments of the assembly include a guard body component configured to at least partially surround the portions of the truck that are susceptible to grinding damage. The capturing latches can then be closed to secure the guard body component to the truck. In these embodiments, the guard body component can be installed in a direction that is generally in the average or most common direction of the force imparted on the assembly during grinding, which can be about normal to the skateboard deck. The guard body component can be configured to permit adaptation of the assembly for various skateboard truck configurations and sizes without significant changes in the capturing latch coupling scheme. For example, the guard body component and or the capturing latches may change shape and / or size based on the truck brand, model, or configuration.

[0019] In some embodiments, the components of the skateboard truck protector assembly can include any length, size, or profile. Although one configuration of the components are shown in the FIGURES, other embodiments may include different dimensions and clearance configurations (e.g., different shape relief cuts, such as a relief cut 158 shown in FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1D). The assemblies can be scaled in size and can include any suitable material. In some embodiments, the assemblies can include any suitable coupling scheme of the capturing latches, e.g., snap together components, fasteners, locking features, etc. The embodiments shown in the FIGURES are intended as exemplary, and other configurations of the guard body component and the capturing latches are also withing the scope of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIGS. 1A and 1B show front and rear perspective views and FIG. 1C shows a side view of an embodiment of a latching truck guard assembly 150 (“assembly 150”) in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, showing a first coupling latch 160a (“first latch 160a”) in an open position and a second coupling latch 160b (“second latch 160b”) in a closed position. FIG. 1D shows a bottom view the assembly 150, with the first and second latches 160a and 160b in the closed positions. FIGS. 1E and 1F show a front view of the assembly 150, with the first latch 160a in the open position and the second latch 160b in the closed position (FIG. 1E), such as in an intermediate step of installing or removing the assembly 150 from the truck, and with both of the first and second latches 160a and 160b in the open positions (FIG. 1F), such as when installing or removing the assembly 150 from the skateboard. FIGS. 2A and 2B show side views of the assembly 150 installed around a skateboard truck T, with the first latch 160a in the open position and the second latch 160b in the closed position (FIG. 2A), and with both of the first and second latches 160a and 160b in the closed positions (FIG. 2B).

[0021] The assembly 150 can include an elongate guard body component 152 (“guard body 152”) that has an axial length and is configured to at least partially surround a body portion of the truck T and the axle A of a skateboard, as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B. The guard body 152 can further include a grinding wear surface 153, a central cavity 154 having an opening along the axial length of the guard body 152, a first hinge portion 156a, a second hinge portion 156b, and a relief cut 158 to provide clearance to the truck and other skateboard components (e.g., dampeners, fasteners, etc.). The grinding wear surface 153 is a portion of the guard body 152 that is configured to generally contact the riding surface during grinding maneuvers, which is intended to wear instead of the components of the truck T, axle A, or wheels (not shown).

[0022] The first and second hinge portions 156a and 156b form a pivotable coupling with corresponding first and second hinge protrusions 162a and 162b of the first and second latches 160a and 160b, respectively, and are configured to be rotated to a closed position to capture and operably couple the assembly 150 to the truck T of the skateboard. As will be explained below, the assembly 150 is configured to be installed on the truck T of a skateboard without removing the truck from the skateboard deck. As shown in FIGS. 1C, 2A, and 2B, the central cavity 154 can include inwardly projecting first and second lips 170 and 172 that are spaced apart from each other at a distance that is less than a diameter / width of the truck T. In this regard, the first and second lips 170 and 172 are configured to spread away from each other during installation of the guard body 152 on the truck T, and then resiliently move back into the initial position, partially capturing the truck T within the central cavity 154. Accordingly, moving the first and second latches 160a and 160b to the closed position does not necessarily abut the first and second latches 160a and 160b against the truck T, but instead prevents the first and second lips 170 and 172 from spreading away from each other, capturing the truck T within the central cavity 154 by the distance between the first and second lips 170 and 172.

[0023] The first and second latches 160a and 160b can include locking features that operably couple the latches 160a and 160b to the guard body 152 to capture the truck T of the skateboard within the assembly 150. The first and second latches 160a and 160b can be pinned to the first and second hinge portions 156a and 156b of the guard body 152 at the respective first and second hinge protrusions 162a and 162b. In the illustrated embodiment shown in FIG. 1B, the guard body 152 includes first and second receiving grooves 155a and 155b and first and second locking protrusions 157a and 157b outward from the first and second receiving grooves 155a and 155b. As shown in FIGS. 1B and 1C, on an end of the first and second latches 160a and 160b opposite the first and second hinge protrusions 162a and 162b, the latches can include complementary first and second locking protrusions 164a and 164b, respectively, that are configured to be received within the first and second receiving grooves 155a and 155b, and first and second locking grooves 166a and 166b that are configured to receive the first and second locking protrusions 157a and 157b when the respective of the first and second latches 160a and 160b are in the locked position. As shown in FIG. 1A, the first and second latches 160a and 160b can include ledges 161a and 161b to provide an interface surface for the user (e.g., a thumb or finger) during closure of the latches, and can include flexure features 165a and 165b to assist in deflection of the latches during closing and opening.

[0024] The latches 160a and 160b are shown with a pivotable coupling with the latch hinges 156 of the guard body 152. The pivotable coupling can have an internal pin (not shown) having an axis about which the components rotate. As shown in FIG. 2B, when the first and second latches 160a and 160b are in the closed position, engaging the first and second locking protrusions 164a and 164b within the first and second receiving grooves 155a and 155b, and engaging the first and second locking protrusions 157a and 157b within the first and second locking grooves 166a and 166b, the latches bridge across the first and second lips 170 and 172 to completely enclose the truck T within the central cavity 154 when viewed from the side. As shown, the latches 160a and 160b may not contact the truck T, but can be configured to prevent spreading of the first and second lips 170 and 172 during use of the assembly 150, avoiding inadvertent detachment of the assembly 150 from the truck T during riding. In this regard, the guard body 152 and the latches 160a and 160b form an enclosure, surrounding the skateboard truck T in the axial position of the latches 160a and 160b and removably couples the assembly 150 to the skateboard truck T. Although the latches 160a and 160b are shown in the illustrated embodiments of having complementary protrusions and grooves, other latching schemes are within the scope of the present disclosure, including detents, mortise and tenon, mechanical fastening features, mechanical locking features, etc.

[0025] FIGS. 3A and 3B show perspective and bottom views of another embodiment of a latching truck guard assembly 250 (“assembly 250”) having first and second flint channels 280 and 282 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, showing a first coupling latch 260a (“first latch 260a”) in a closed position and a second coupling latch 260b (“second latch 260b”) in an open position. FIG. 3C is an exploded perspective view of the assembly 250, with representative first and second flint rods F1 and F2 receivable within the first and second flint channels 280 and 282, respectively in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. The assembly 250 can be generally similar to the assembly 150 of FIGS. 1A-2B, with like numerals in the 200-series referring to like components of the assembly 250. In this regard, the assembly 250 can include an elongate guard body 252, a grinding wear surface 253, a central cavity 254, a first hinge portion 256a, a second hinge portion 256b, and a relief cut 258 to provide clearance to the truck and other skateboard components (e.g., dampeners, fasteners, etc.). The grinding wear surface 253 is a portion of the guard body 252 that is configured to generally contact the riding surface during grinding maneuvers, which is intended to wear instead of the components of a truck T or axle A, similar to that as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, or wheels (not shown).

[0026] The first and second hinge portions 256a and 256b form a pivotable coupling with corresponding first and second hinge protrusions 262a and 262b of the first and second latches 260a and 260b, respectively, and are configured to be rotated to a closed position to capture and operably couple the assembly 250 to a truck T of the skateboard. The guard body 252 can include inwardly projecting first and second lips 270 and 272 that are spaced apart from each other at a distance that is less than a diameter / width of the truck T. In this regard, the first and second lips 270 and 272 are configured to spread away from each other during installation of the guard body 252 on the truck T, and then resiliently move back into the initial position, partially capturing the truck T within the central cavity 254. The guard body 252 includes first and second receiving grooves 255a and 255b. As shown in FIG. 3A, on an end of the first and second latches 260a and 260b opposite the first and second hinge protrusions 262a and 262b, the latches can include complementary first and second locking protrusions 264a and 264b, respectively, that are configured to be received within the first and second receiving grooves 255a and 255b when the respective of the first and second latches 160a and 160b are in the locked position.

[0027] The guard body 252 includes the first and second flint channels 280 and 282 that are configured to receive the first and second flint rods F1 and F2 therein The flint rods F1 and F2 can be formed from a material capable of producing pyrotechnic sparks when in contact with surfaces upon which the skateboard is used (e.g., concrete, metal, etc.) for added effect during the performance of tricks on the skateboard. Each of the first and second flint channels 280 and 282 can include a necked down portion 281 and 283, respectively, at a distal end of the flint channels 280 and 282, where the necked down portions 281 and 283 are configured to releasably retain the first and second flint rods F1 and F2 in the corresponding channel. The necked down portions 281 and 283 can be sized and have a length that secures the flint rods F1 and F2 therein during use of the assembly 250; however, permits release of the flint rods F1 and F2 during replacement thereof. In some embodiments, a tool (e.g., pliers, screwdriver, pick, etc.) may aid in the removal of the flint rods F1 and F2 from the respective flint channels 280 and 282. In other embodiments, any number of flint channels are within the scope of the present disclosure, e.g., one flint channel, three flint channels, etc., and the flint channel(s) may be positioned on different ends from each other, for example, a flint channel running the full length of the guard body 252 that includes a central necked down portion configured to receive one or two flint rods therein, non-axial flint channels, flint channels having different sizes, etc.

[0028] In the foregoing description, specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to one skilled in the art, however, that the embodiments disclosed herein may be practiced without embodying all of the specific details. In some instances, well-known process steps have not been described in detail in order not to unnecessarily obscure various aspects of the present disclosure. Further, it will be appreciated that embodiments of the present disclosure may employ any combination of features described herein.

[0029] The present application may reference quantities and numbers. Unless specifically stated, such quantities and numbers are not to be considered restrictive, but exemplary of the possible quantities or numbers associated with the present application. Also in this regard, the present application may use the term “plurality” to reference a quantity or number. In this regard, the term “plurality” is meant to be any number that is more than one, for example, two, three, four, five, etc. The terms “about,”“approximately,”“near,” etc., mean plus or minus 10% of the stated value. For the purposes of the present disclosure, the phrase “at least one of A and B” is equivalent to “A and / or B” or vice versa, namely “A” alone, “B” alone, or “A and B.” Similarly, the phrase “at least one of A, B, and C,” for example, means (A), (B), (C), (A and B), (A and C), (B and C), or (A, B, and C), including all further possible permutations when greater than three elements are listed.

[0030] It should be noted that for purposes of this disclosure, terminology such as “upper,”“lower,”“vertical,”“horizontal,”“fore,”“aft,”“inner,”“outer,”“front,”“rear,” etc., should be construed as descriptive and not limiting the scope of the claimed subject matter. Further, the use of “including,”“comprising,” or “having” and variations thereof herein is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items. Unless limited otherwise, the terms “connected,”“coupled,” and “mounted” and variations thereof herein are used broadly and encompass direct and indirect connections, couplings, and mountings.

[0031] Throughout this specification, terms of art may be used. These terms are to take on their ordinary meaning in the art from which they come, unless specifically defined herein or the context of their use would clearly suggest otherwise.

[0032] The principles, representative embodiments, and modes of operation of the present disclosure have been described in the foregoing description. However, aspects of the present disclosure, which are intended to be protected, are not to be construed as limited to the particular embodiments disclosed. Further, the embodiments described herein are to be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive. It will be appreciated that variations and changes may be made by others, and equivalents employed, without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure. Accordingly, it is expressly intended that all such variations, changes, and equivalents fall within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as claimed.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0012]The detailed description set forth above in connection with the appended drawings, where like numerals reference like elements, are intended as a description of various embodiments of the present disclosure and are not intended to represent the only embodiments. Each embodiment described in this disclosure is provided merely as an example or illustration and should not be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments. The illustrative examples provided herein are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to the precise forms disclosed.

[0013]The present disclosure relates to the field of skateboard trucks and, more specifically, to a skateboard truck protector assembly that enhances durability and resistance to grinding damage. Embodiments disclosed herein are expected address at least some of the challenges associated with existing skateboard truck protection attempts, offering an enhanced solution to extend the life of skateboard trucks, reduce ...

BACKGROUND

[0001] Skateboarding is a popular sport and recreational activity that involves riding and performing tricks on a skateboard. A skateboard typically includes a deck and trucks operably coupling wheels to the deck. The trucks are T-shaped components mounted to the underside of the deck that house the axle connecting the wheels to the board. The trucks play a crucial role in the maneuverability and performance of the skateboard, providing ground clearance, facilitating steering, and providing stability during tricks and turns.

[0002] One of the fundamental aspects of skateboarding is performing tricks that involve grinding and sliding on various surfaces, such as rails, ledges, and curbs. During these maneuvers, the skateboard trucks make direct contact with the grinding surface, resulting in substantial wear and tear. This repetitive grinding action can lead to significant damage to the trucks, affecting their performance and longevity. Common issues include deformation, cracking, and excessive wear of the grinding surfaces, which can compromise the safety and reliability of the skateboard, and lead to expensive repairs.

[0003] Conventional skateboard trucks are typically made from aluminum or other metal alloys, chosen for their strength and lightweight properties. However, even these materials can deteriorate quickly under the intense and repetitive forces experienced during grinding. The grinding damage not only shortens the lifespan of the trucks but also necessitates frequent replacements, leading to increased costs for skateboarders.

[0004] Various solutions have been proposed to address the issue of truck damage from grinding. These include using harder metals and applying protective coatings to the grinding surfaces. Despite these efforts, the challenge remains to develop a skateboard truck that can withstand the rigors of grinding while maintaining performance and affordability. Therefore, a need exists for a skateboard truck protector that enhances durability and resistance to grinding damage to extend the life of skateboard trucks, reduce maintenance and replacement costs, and improve the overall experience for skateboarders.DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0005] The foregoing aspects and many of the attendant advantages of the claimed subject matter will become more readily appreciated as the same become better understood by reference to the following detailed description, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0006] FIGS. 1A and 1B show front and rear perspective views and FIG. 1C shows a side view of an embodiment of a latching truck guard assembly in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, showing a first coupling latch in an open position and a second coupling latch in a closed position;

[0007] FIG. 1D shows a bottom view the latching truck guard assembly of FIGS. 1A-1C, with the first and second coupling latches in the closed positions;

[0008] FIGS. 1E and 1F show a front view of the latching truck guard assembly of FIGS. 1A-1C, with the first coupling latch in the open position and the second coupling latch in the closed position (FIG. 1E), and with both of the first and second coupling latches in the open positions (FIG. 1F);

[0009] FIGS. 2A and 2B show side views of the latching truck guard assembly of FIGS. 1A-1C installed around a skateboard truck, with the first coupling latch in the open position and the second coupling latch in the closed position (FIG. 2A), and with both of the first and second coupling latches in the closed positions (FIG. 2B).

[0010] FIGS. 3A and 3B show perspective and bottom views of an embodiment of a latching truck guard assembly having a flint channel in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, showing a first coupling latch in a closed position and a second coupling latch in an open position; and

[0011] FIG. 3C is an exploded perspective view of the latching truck guard assembly of FIGS. 3A and 3B, with representative flint rods operably couplable to the latching truck guard assembly in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0012] The detailed description set forth above in connection with the appended drawings, where like numerals reference like elements, are intended as a description of various embodiments of the present disclosure and are not intended to represent the only embodiments. Each embodiment described in this disclosure is provided merely as an example or illustration and should not be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments. The illustrative examples provided herein are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to the precise forms disclosed.

[0013] The present disclosure relates to the field of skateboard trucks and, more specifically, to a skateboard truck protector assembly that enhances durability and resistance to grinding damage. Embodiments disclosed herein are expected address at least some of the challenges associated with existing skateboard truck protection attempts, offering an enhanced solution to extend the life of skateboard trucks, reduce maintenance and replacement costs, and improve the overall experience for skateboarders.

[0014] Although embodiments of the present disclosure may be described with reference to standard skateboard trucks suitable for skateboard systems, one skilled in the relevant art will appreciate that the disclosed embodiments are illustrative in nature and therefore should not be construed as limited to such an application. It should therefore be apparent that the disclosed technologies and methodologies have wide application, and therefore may be suitable for use with many types of skateboard truck architecture, including different types of trucks, various configurations, sizes, performance levels, and the like. Additionally, the embodiments disclosed herein can be used for other equipment, such as roller skates, scooters, etc. Accordingly, the following descriptions and illustrations herein should not limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0015] As will be described in more detail below, the present disclosure provides examples of skateboard truck protectors to reduce or eliminate damage to skateboard truck components during riding, particularly during grinding maneuvers where the riding surface contacts a lower portion of the truck laterally between the wheels. Embodiments of the present disclosure shown in the FIGURES include a latching skateboard truck protector assembly (the “assembly”) having at least a one-piece guard body component with capturing latches for operably coupling the latching assembly to the truck. The guard body component, once installed to the truck, is configured to substantially surround the portion of the truck that contacts the riding surface during grinding. As used herein, the term “riding surface” is intended to refer to concrete lips, curbs, railings, half-pipe coping, pool coping, and any other riding surface that is suitable for grinding maneuvers. The coverage of the truck by the assembly is intended to protect the truck components during grinding and other maneuvers that would otherwise contact the truck components directly, wearing and potentially damaging material of the truck, requiring replacement. In some embodiments, individual components of the assembly can be replaceable without needing to replace the entire assembly, such as the flint rods (see FIGS. 3A-3C), the capturing latches, hinge pins, etc.

[0016] Embodiments of the assemblies described herein can be formed and / or molded from various suitable materials, such as high-durability, low-friction synthetic or semi-synthetic polymers (plastics), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polycarbonate, polylactic acid (PLA), glass fiber reinforced ABS, carbon fiber weave, carbon fiber reinforced PLA, carbon fiber reinforced nylon, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), and any combinations thereof, including other suitable materials. The assembly can be configured as a latching truck protector with skateboard trick sliding capabilities enabling the user to negotiate steep concrete lips, curbs, railings, and pool coping without the truck contacting the riding surface. The assemblies disclosed herein may include low-friction materials to avoid the assembly sticking on the grinding surface and abruptly halting the progress of the rider, which can lead to failure of the trick. Embodiments of the present disclosure are suitable for use in street riding, pool, skate park, halfpipe, novelty, and transition riding, including specific applications such as grinding of asphalt pump track pinnacles.

[0017] The assemblies of the present disclosure can include a smooth grinding surface that covers at least the bottom portion of the skateboard truck and prevents the trucks from scraping against any coarse terrain or obstacles, which ensures there will be no damage and / or degradation to the metal truck structure. The embodiments disclosed herein can additionally permit grinding on terrain having sharp or abrasive edges, which would otherwise cause increased friction with the truck components and not be suitable for grinding. In this regard, use of the truck protectors of the present disclosure can avoid increased wear and unexpected rider unbalancing (which can lead to a wipeout). In some embodiments, the assemblies disclosed herein can slide on higher friction surfaces / edges with reduced resistance compared to grinding on bare truck geometries, enabling the rider to negotiate grinds on a wider variety of surfaces than a conventional skateboard configuration.

[0018] The variety of configurations of skateboard trucks requires at least partially tailored fitment of the grinding surface covering component. The mounting plate of the truck is bolted to the skateboard deck, and the wheels are rotatably coupled to each end of the axle, which is narrower than the wheels. Embodiments of the assembly include a guard body component configured to at least partially surround the portions of the truck that are susceptible to grinding damage. The capturing latches can then be closed to secure the guard body component to the truck. In these embodiments, the guard body component can be installed in a direction that is generally in the average or most common direction of the force imparted on the assembly during grinding, which can be about normal to the skateboard deck. The guard body component can be configured to permit adaptation of the assembly for various skateboard truck configurations and sizes without significant changes in the capturing latch coupling scheme. For example, the guard body component and or the capturing latches may change shape and / or size based on the truck brand, model, or configuration.

[0019] In some embodiments, the components of the skateboard truck protector assembly can include any length, size, or profile. Although one configuration of the components are shown in the FIGURES, other embodiments may include different dimensions and clearance configurations (e.g., different shape relief cuts, such as a relief cut 158 shown in FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1D). The assemblies can be scaled in size and can include any suitable material. In some embodiments, the assemblies can include any suitable coupling scheme of the capturing latches, e.g., snap together components, fasteners, locking features, etc. The embodiments shown in the FIGURES are intended as exemplary, and other configurations of the guard body component and the capturing latches are also withing the scope of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIGS. 1A and 1B show front and rear perspective views and FIG. 1C shows a side view of an embodiment of a latching truck guard assembly 150 (“assembly 150”) in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, showing a first coupling latch 160a (“first latch 160a”) in an open position and a second coupling latch 160b (“second latch 160b”) in a closed position. FIG. 1D shows a bottom view the assembly 150, with the first and second latches 160a and 160b in the closed positions. FIGS. 1E and 1F show a front view of the assembly 150, with the first latch 160a in the open position and the second latch 160b in the closed position (FIG. 1E), such as in an intermediate step of installing or removing the assembly 150 from the truck, and with both of the first and second latches 160a and 160b in the open positions (FIG. 1F), such as when installing or removing the assembly 150 from the skateboard. FIGS. 2A and 2B show side views of the assembly 150 installed around a skateboard truck T, with the first latch 160a in the open position and the second latch 160b in the closed position (FIG. 2A), and with both of the first and second latches 160a and 160b in the closed positions (FIG. 2B).

[0021] The assembly 150 can include an elongate guard body component 152 (“guard body 152”) that has an axial length and is configured to at least partially surround a body portion of the truck T and the axle A of a skateboard, as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B. The guard body 152 can further include a grinding wear surface 153, a central cavity 154 having an opening along the axial length of the guard body 152, a first hinge portion 156a, a second hinge portion 156b, and a relief cut 158 to provide clearance to the truck and other skateboard components (e.g., dampeners, fasteners, etc.). The grinding wear surface 153 is a portion of the guard body 152 that is configured to generally contact the riding surface during grinding maneuvers, which is intended to wear instead of the components of the truck T, axle A, or wheels (not shown).

[0022] The first and second hinge portions 156a and 156b form a pivotable coupling with corresponding first and second hinge protrusions 162a and 162b of the first and second latches 160a and 160b, respectively, and are configured to be rotated to a closed position to capture and operably couple the assembly 150 to the truck T of the skateboard. As will be explained below, the assembly 150 is configured to be installed on the truck T of a skateboard without removing the truck from the skateboard deck. As shown in FIGS. 1C, 2A, and 2B, the central cavity 154 can include inwardly projecting first and second lips 170 and 172 that are spaced apart from each other at a distance that is less than a diameter / width of the truck T. In this regard, the first and second lips 170 and 172 are configured to spread away from each other during installation of the guard body 152 on the truck T, and then resiliently move back into the initial position, partially capturing the truck T within the central cavity 154. Accordingly, moving the first and second latches 160a and 160b to the closed position does not necessarily abut the first and second latches 160a and 160b against the truck T, but instead prevents the first and second lips 170 and 172 from spreading away from each other, capturing the truck T within the central cavity 154 by the distance between the first and second lips 170 and 172.

[0023] The first and second latches 160a and 160b can include locking features that operably couple the latches 160a and 160b to the guard body 152 to capture the truck T of the skateboard within the assembly 150. The first and second latches 160a and 160b can be pinned to the first and second hinge portions 156a and 156b of the guard body 152 at the respective first and second hinge protrusions 162a and 162b. In the illustrated embodiment shown in FIG. 1B, the guard body 152 includes first and second receiving grooves 155a and 155b and first and second locking protrusions 157a and 157b outward from the first and second receiving grooves 155a and 155b. As shown in FIGS. 1B and 1C, on an end of the first and second latches 160a and 160b opposite the first and second hinge protrusions 162a and 162b, the latches can include complementary first and second locking protrusions 164a and 164b, respectively, that are configured to be received within the first and second receiving grooves 155a and 155b, and first and second locking grooves 166a and 166b that are configured to receive the first and second locking protrusions 157a and 157b when the respective of the first and second latches 160a and 160b are in the locked position. As shown in FIG. 1A, the first and second latches 160a and 160b can include ledges 161a and 161b to provide an interface surface for the user (e.g., a thumb or finger) during closure of the latches, and can include flexure features 165a and 165b to assist in deflection of the latches during closing and opening.

[0024] The latches 160a and 160b are shown with a pivotable coupling with the latch hinges 156 of the guard body 152. The pivotable coupling can have an internal pin (not shown) having an axis about which the components rotate. As shown in FIG. 2B, when the first and second latches 160a and 160b are in the closed position, engaging the first and second locking protrusions 164a and 164b within the first and second receiving grooves 155a and 155b, and engaging the first and second locking protrusions 157a and 157b within the first and second locking grooves 166a and 166b, the latches bridge across the first and second lips 170 and 172 to completely enclose the truck T within the central cavity 154 when viewed from the side. As shown, the latches 160a and 160b may not contact the truck T, but can be configured to prevent spreading of the first and second lips 170 and 172 during use of the assembly 150, avoiding inadvertent detachment of the assembly 150 from the truck T during riding. In this regard, the guard body 152 and the latches 160a and 160b form an enclosure, surrounding the skateboard truck T in the axial position of the latches 160a and 160b and removably couples the assembly 150 to the skateboard truck T. Although the latches 160a and 160b are shown in the illustrated embodiments of having complementary protrusions and grooves, other latching schemes are within the scope of the present disclosure, including detents, mortise and tenon, mechanical fastening features, mechanical locking features, etc.

[0025] FIGS. 3A and 3B show perspective and bottom views of another embodiment of a latching truck guard assembly 250 (“assembly 250”) having first and second flint channels 280 and 282 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, showing a first coupling latch 260a (“first latch 260a”) in a closed position and a second coupling latch 260b (“second latch 260b”) in an open position. FIG. 3C is an exploded perspective view of the assembly 250, with representative first and second flint rods F1 and F2 receivable within the first and second flint channels 280 and 282, respectively in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. The assembly 250 can be generally similar to the assembly 150 of FIGS. 1A-2B, with like numerals in the 200-series referring to like components of the assembly 250. In this regard, the assembly 250 can include an elongate guard body 252, a grinding wear surface 253, a central cavity 254, a first hinge portion 256a, a second hinge portion 256b, and a relief cut 258 to provide clearance to the truck and other skateboard components (e.g., dampeners, fasteners, etc.). The grinding wear surface 253 is a portion of the guard body 252 that is configured to generally contact the riding surface during grinding maneuvers, which is intended to wear instead of the components of a truck T or axle A, similar to that as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, or wheels (not shown).

[0026] The first and second hinge portions 256a and 256b form a pivotable coupling with corresponding first and second hinge protrusions 262a and 262b of the first and second latches 260a and 260b, respectively, and are configured to be rotated to a closed position to capture and operably couple the assembly 250 to a truck T of the skateboard. The guard body 252 can include inwardly projecting first and second lips 270 and 272 that are spaced apart from each other at a distance that is less than a diameter / width of the truck T. In this regard, the first and second lips 270 and 272 are configured to spread away from each other during installation of the guard body 252 on the truck T, and then resiliently move back into the initial position, partially capturing the truck T within the central cavity 254. The guard body 252 includes first and second receiving grooves 255a and 255b. As shown in FIG. 3A, on an end of the first and second latches 260a and 260b opposite the first and second hinge protrusions 262a and 262b, the latches can include complementary first and second locking protrusions 264a and 264b, respectively, that are configured to be received within the first and second receiving grooves 255a and 255b when the respective of the first and second latches 160a and 160b are in the locked position.

[0027] The guard body 252 includes the first and second flint channels 280 and 282 that are configured to receive the first and second flint rods F1 and F2 therein The flint rods F1 and F2 can be formed from a material capable of producing pyrotechnic sparks when in contact with surfaces upon which the skateboard is used (e.g., concrete, metal, etc.) for added effect during the performance of tricks on the skateboard. Each of the first and second flint channels 280 and 282 can include a necked down portion 281 and 283, respectively, at a distal end of the flint channels 280 and 282, where the necked down portions 281 and 283 are configured to releasably retain the first and second flint rods F1 and F2 in the corresponding channel. The necked down portions 281 and 283 can be sized and have a length that secures the flint rods F1 and F2 therein during use of the assembly 250; however, permits release of the flint rods F1 and F2 during replacement thereof. In some embodiments, a tool (e.g., pliers, screwdriver, pick, etc.) may aid in the removal of the flint rods F1 and F2 from the respective flint channels 280 and 282. In other embodiments, any number of flint channels are within the scope of the present disclosure, e.g., one flint channel, three flint channels, etc., and the flint channel(s) may be positioned on different ends from each other, for example, a flint channel running the full length of the guard body 252 that includes a central necked down portion configured to receive one or two flint rods therein, non-axial flint channels, flint channels having different sizes, etc.

[0028] In the foregoing description, specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to one skilled in the art, however, that the embodiments disclosed herein may be practiced without embodying all of the specific details. In some instances, well-known process steps have not been described in detail in order not to unnecessarily obscure various aspects of the present disclosure. Further, it will be appreciated that embodiments of the present disclosure may employ any combination of features described herein.

[0029] The present application may reference quantities and numbers. Unless specifically stated, such quantities and numbers are not to be considered restrictive, but exemplary of the possible quantities or numbers associated with the present application. Also in this regard, the present application may use the term “plurality” to reference a quantity or number. In this regard, the term “plurality” is meant to be any number that is more than one, for example, two, three, four, five, etc. The terms “about,”“approximately,”“near,” etc., mean plus or minus 10% of the stated value. For the purposes of the present disclosure, the phrase “at least one of A and B” is equivalent to “A and / or B” or vice versa, namely “A” alone, “B” alone, or “A and B.” Similarly, the phrase “at least one of A, B, and C,” for example, means (A), (B), (C), (A and B), (A and C), (B and C), or (A, B, and C), including all further possible permutations when greater than three elements are listed.

[0030] It should be noted that for purposes of this disclosure, terminology such as “upper,”“lower,”“vertical,”“horizontal,”“fore,”“aft,”“inner,”“outer,”“front,”“rear,” etc., should be construed as descriptive and not limiting the scope of the claimed subject matter. Further, the use of “including,”“comprising,” or “having” and variations thereof herein is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items. Unless limited otherwise, the terms “connected,”“coupled,” and “mounted” and variations thereof herein are used broadly and encompass direct and indirect connections, couplings, and mountings.

[0031] Throughout this specification, terms of art may be used. These terms are to take on their ordinary meaning in the art from which they come, unless specifically defined herein or the context of their use would clearly suggest otherwise.

[0032] The principles, representative embodiments, and modes of operation of the present disclosure have been described in the foregoing description. However, aspects of the present disclosure, which are intended to be protected, are not to be construed as limited to the particular embodiments disclosed. Further, the embodiments described herein are to be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive. It will be appreciated that variations and changes may be made by others, and equivalents employed, without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure. Accordingly, it is expressly intended that all such variations, changes, and equivalents fall within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as claimed.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0012]The detailed description set forth above in connection with the appended drawings, where like numerals reference like elements, are intended as a description of various embodiments of the present disclosure and are not intended to represent the only embodiments. Each embodiment described in this disclosure is provided merely as an example or illustration and should not be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments. The illustrative examples provided herein are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to the precise forms disclosed.

[0013]The present disclosure relates to the field of skateboard trucks and, more specifically, to a skateboard truck protector assembly that enhances durability and resistance to grinding damage. Embodiments disclosed herein are expected address at least some of the challenges associated with existing skateboard truck protection attempts, offering an enhanced solution to extend the life of skateboard trucks, reduce ...

Claims

1. A latching truck guard assembly for operably coupling to a truck of a skateboard, the latching truck guard assembly comprising:an elongate guard body having an outer grinding wear surface configured to contact a riding surface during use, and a central cavity having an opening along an axial length of the elongate guard body and configured to at least partially receive the truck therein by passing the truck through the opening;a first coupling latch hingedly coupled to the elongate guard body at a first end, the first coupling latch having a first locking protrusion; anda second coupling latch hingedly coupled to the elongate guard body at a second end opposite the first end, the second coupling latch having a second locking protrusion,wherein the first and second coupling latches are each rotatable with respect to the elongate guard body between a closed position, wherein the respective first or second locking protrusion is received within a corresponding receiving groove of the elongate guard body to enclose the opening of the central cavity, and an open position, wherein the respective first or second locking protrusion is spaced away from the elongate guard body during installation or removal of the latching truck guard assembly with respect to the truck.

2. The latching truck guard assembly of claim 1, wherein the elongate guard body further comprises first and second opposing lips projecting inwardly into the central cavity along the axial length of the elongate guard body, wherein the first and second opposing lips are spaced apart from each other at a neutral lip spacing distance that is less than a width of the truck in a direction perpendicular to the axial length of the guard body.

3. The latching truck guard assembly of claim 2, wherein the first and second opposing lips are configured to spread away from each other during installation or removal of the latching truck guard assembly, and then resiliently move back toward each other to an installed lip spacing distance that is less than the width of the truck in the direction perpendicular to the axial length of the elongate guard body when the truck is received within the central cavity.

4. The latching truck guard assembly of claim 3, wherein the installed lip spacing distance is equal to or greater than the neutral lip spacing distance.

5. The latching truck guard assembly of claim 3, wherein in the closed position of the first and second coupling latches, the first and second opposing lips are fixed with respect to each other at the installed lip spacing distance.

6. The latching truck guard assembly of claim 1, wherein the elongate guard body comprises a relief cut to provide clearance to the truck when installed.

7. The latching truck guard assembly of claim 1, wherein:the first coupling latch further comprises a first latch locking groove, the second coupling latch further comprises a second latch locking groove, and the elongate guard body further comprises first and second locking protrusions; andin the closed position of the first and second coupling latches, the first locking protrusion is received within the first latch locking groove and the second locking protrusion is received within the second latch locking groove.

8. The latching truck guard assembly of claim 1, wherein the elongate guard body further comprises a flint channel extending at least partially along the outer grinding wear surface, the flint channel configured to receive a flint rod therein.

9. The latching truck guard assembly of claim 8, wherein the flint channel includes a necked down portion configured to interface with the flint rod to retain the flint rod within the flint channel during use of the latching truck guard assembly.

10. The latching truck guard assembly of claim 1, wherein each of the first and second coupling latches includes a ledge configured to provide an interface surface for a user during closure of the first and second coupling latches.

11. The latching truck guard assembly of claim 1, wherein each of the first and second coupling latches includes a flexure feature configured to assist in deflection of the first and second coupling latches during closing and opening.

12. The latching truck guard assembly of claim 1, wherein the latching truck guard assembly is configured to install on the truck without removal of the truck from the skateboard.

13. A skateboard truck protector for a truck of a skateboard, the skateboard truck protector comprising:an elongate guard body having:an outer grinding wear surface configured to contact a riding surface during use;a central cavity having a lateral opening along an axial length of the elongate guard body and configured to at least partially receive the truck therein by passing the truck through the opening; anda relief cut to provide clearance to the truck when installed;a coupling latch hingedly coupled to the elongate guard body, the coupling latch having a locking protrusion; andwherein the coupling latch is rotatable with respect to the elongate guard body between a closed position, wherein the locking protrusion is received within a corresponding receiving groove of the elongate guard body to enclose the opening of the central cavity, and an open position, wherein the locking protrusion is spaced away from the elongate guard body during installation or removal of the skateboard truck protector with respect to the truck.

14. The skateboard truck protector of claim 13, wherein the elongate guard body further comprises first and second opposing lips projecting inwardly into the central cavity along the axial length of the elongate guard body, wherein the first and second opposing lips are spaced apart from each other at a neutral lip spacing distance that is less than a width of the truck in a direction perpendicular to the axial length of the guard body.

15. The skateboard truck protector of claim 14, wherein the first and second opposing lips are configured to spread away from each other during installation or removal of the skateboard truck protector, and then resiliently move back toward each other to an installed lip spacing distance that is less than the width of the truck in the direction perpendicular to the axial length of the elongate guard body when the truck is received within the central cavity.

16. The skateboard truck protector of claim 15, wherein the installed lip spacing distance is equal to or greater than the neutral lip spacing distance.

17. The skateboard truck protector of claim 15, wherein in the closed position of the coupling latch, the first and second opposing lips are fixed with respect to each other at the installed lip spacing distance.

18. The skateboard truck protector of claim 13, wherein:the coupling latch further comprises a latch locking groove and the elongate guard body further comprises a locking protrusion; andin the closed position of the coupling latch, the locking protrusion is received within the latch locking groove.

19. The skateboard truck protector of claim 13, wherein the elongate guard body further comprises a flint channel extending at least partially along the outer grinding wear surface, the flint channel configured to receive a flint rod therein.

20. The skateboard truck protector of claim 19, wherein the flint channel includes a necked down portion configured to interface with the flint rod to retain the flint rod within the flint channel during use of the skateboard truck protector.

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