Metal alloy surfboard fins

Abstract

Surfboards having a fin shaped core formed from solid metal or solid metal alloy, such as aluminum or an aluminum alloy, with a metal protectant layer. Each fin can include a rectangular base with a plurality of cut-outs, such as alternating triangular cut-outs. A surfboard assembly can include at least one fin shaped core, and a surfboard having a plurality of parallel slits on a bottom side of the surfboard. The base of each fin core can be mounted into at least one slit by a raised ridge in each slit that connects to a U-shaped cut out in the rear of each base, and an angled set screw attaching the front of each base to mutably the surfboard. An embodiment can include two fin shaped cores with bases mounted in two parallel slits in a twin fin arrangement, so the surfboard is useable for surfing on ocean waves.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 63 / 755,681 filed February 7, 2025. The entire disclosure of each application listed in this paragraph are incorporated herein by specific reference thereto.FIELD OF INVENTION

[0002] This invention relates to surfboard fins, and in particular to fin devices, and methods for retrofitting surfboards with a fin having a core formed from solid metal or solid metal alloy, with the fin core surface having a metal protectant layer thereon.BACKGROUND AND PRIOR ART

[0003] Surfboards, windsurfing boards, kitesurfing boards, and paddle boards are often made through a standard production technique in which polyurethane foam is cut to a desired shape and then encased in a fiber-reinforced plastic skin, such as fiberglass. The low-density polyurethane foam core material is used in an effort to minimize weight. However, such a core, though light, provides minimal strength to resist breakage, and traditional polyurethane foam / fiberglass surfboards are known to break easily, especially in large surf.

[0004] Attempts have been made over the years to form surfboards from honeycomb cores. See for example, U.S. Patent 7,845,999 to Conner, Jr., which is incorporated by reference in its’ entirety. However, Conner ‘999 is primarily directed toward the board core and not to the fin part of the surfboard.

[0005] The fins used on surfboards, windsurfing boards, kitesurfing boards, and paddle boards, have often been made of various materials, such as fiberglass, epoxy, carbon fiber, plastic, wood / bamboo, resin composites over a core material, recycled plastics and woods, and honeycomb for high performance.

[0006] A removable fin used for surfboards, windsurfing boards, kitesurfing boards, and paddle boards, has been proposed to be made from titanium or a titanium alloy such as Ti 6Al-4V, which is described in U.S. Patent 10,926,846 to Miller, which is incorporated in its’ entirety. The Miller ‘846 as the titanium / alloy fin core having a fin shape require a plurality of circular and oval holes to assist in the flexibility of the fins as well as to reduce the costs of using additional titanium / alloy materials in those holes. Miller ‘846 generally requires the holes be filled with an over molding and the exterior of the fin core having an outer flexible cover thereon.

[0007] In addition to the expensive manufacturing process needed to create the titanium / alloy fin with holes and overmolding in the holes with a flexible cover, the cost of titanium is more expensive than other metals such as aluminum.

[0008] Thus, the need exists for solutions to the above problems with the prior art.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0009] A primary objective of the present invention is to provide a one-piece removable fin for surfboards, that is made from a solid metal core, or a solid metal alloy core without holes in the core.

[0010] A secondary objective of the present invention is to provide a one-piece removable fin for surfboards, that is made from a solid metal core, or a solid metal alloy having a clear metal protectant layer on the outer surface of the fin to prevent corrosion.

[0011] Further objects and advantages of this invention will be apparent from the following detailed description of the presently preferred embodiments which are illustrated schematically in the accompanying drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

[0012] The drawing figures depict one or more implementations in accord with the present concepts, by way of example only, not by way of limitations. In the figures, like reference numerals refer to the same or similar elements.

[0013] FIG. 1A is an upper right side perspective view of a replaceable fin.

[0014] FIG. 1B is a lower front perspective view of the replaceable fin of FIG. 1A.

[0015] FIG. 2A is a planar right-side view of the replaceable fin of FIG. 1A.

[0016] FIG. 2B is a front-end view of the replaceable fin of FIG. 2A along arrow 2B.

[0017] FIG. 3A is a planar left side view of the replaceable fin of FIG. 1A.

[0018] FIG. 3B is a rear end view of the replaceable fin of FIG. 3A along arrow 3B.

[0019] FIG. 4A is a top view of the replaceable fin of FIG. 1A.

[0020] FIG. 4B is a bottom view of the replaceable fin of FIG. 1A.

[0021] FIG. 5A is an upper rear perspective view of the novel surfboard to use the replaceable fin of FIGS. 1A-4B.

[0022] FIG. 5B is an upper front perspective view of the surfboard of FIG. 5A.

[0023] FIG. 6A is lower front perspective view of the surfboard of FIG. 5A.

[0024] FIG. 6B is lower rear perspective view of the surfboard of FIG. 6A.

[0025] FIG. 7A is an upper-planner view of the surfboard of FIG. 5A.

[0026] FIG. 7B is a side view of the surfboard of FIG. 7A along arrow 7B.

[0027] FIG. 7C is a right end view of the surfboard of FIG. 7A along arrow 7C.

[0028] FIG. 7D is a left end view of the surfboard of FIG. 7A along arrow 7D.

[0029] FIG. 8A is lower planar view of the surfboard of FIG. 5A.

[0030] FIG. 8B is a side view of the surfboard of FIG. 8A along arrow 8B.

[0031] FIG. 9A is an upper rear perspective view of the surfboard of FIGS. 5A-8B with pair of replaceable fins of FIGS. 1A-4B mounted to the bottom of the surfboard.

[0032] FIG. 9B is an upper front perspective view of the surfboard of FIGS. 5A-8B with pair of replaceable fins of FIGS. 1A-4B mounted to bottom of the surfboard.

[0033] FIG. 10A is lower perspective view of the surfboard of FIGS. 5A-8B with pair of replaceable fins of FIGS. 1A-4B mounted to the bottom of the surfboard.

[0034] FIG. 10B is another lower perspective view of the surfboard of FIGS. 5A-8B with pair of replaceable fins of FIGS. 1A-4B mounted to the bottom of the surfboard.

[0035] FIG. 11A is a top planar view of the surfboard with mounted fins of FIGS. 9A-10B.

[0036] FIG. 11B is a side view of the surfboard of FIG. 11A with mounted fins along arrow 11B.

[0037] FIG. 11C is a front-end view of the surfboard of FIG. 11A with mounted fins along arrow 11C.

[0038] FIG. 11D is a rear end view of the surfboard of FIG. 11A with mounted fins along arrow 11D.

[0039] FIG. 12A is a bottom view of the surfboard with mounted fins of FIGS. 9A-11B.

[0040] FIG. 12B is a side view of the surfboard of FIG. 12 A with mounted fins along arrow 12B.

[0041] FIG. 12C is another bottom view of the surfboard with mounted fins of FIGS. 9A-11B.

[0042] FIG. 12D is a cross-sectional view of a fin mounted in a slit in the surfboard of FIG. 12C along arrows A-A.

[0043] FIG. 13 is another cross-sectional view of a preferred example of mounting the fin base to a slit in the surfboard.DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0044] Before explaining the disclosed embodiments of the present invention in detail it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its applications to the details of the particular arrangements shown since the invention is capable of other embodiments. Also, the terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation.

[0045] In the Summary above and in the Detailed Description of Preferred Embodiments and in the accompanying drawings, reference is made to particular features (including method steps) of the invention. It is to be understood that the disclosure of the invention in this specification does not include all possible combinations of such particular features. For example, where a particular feature is disclosed in the context of a particular aspect or embodiment of the invention, that feature can also be used, to the extent possible, in combination with and / or in the context of other particular aspects and embodiments of the invention, and in the invention generally.

[0046] In this section, some embodiments of the invention will be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which preferred embodiments of the invention are shown. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout, and prime notation is used to indicate similar elements in alternative embodiments.

[0047] Other technical advantages may become readily apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art after review of the following figures and description.

[0048] It should be understood at the outset that, although exemplary embodiments are illustrated in the figures and described below, the principles of the present disclosure may be implemented using any number of techniques, whether currently known or not. The present disclosure should in no way be limited to the exemplary implementations and techniques illustrated in the drawings and described below.

[0049] Unless otherwise specifically noted, articles depicted in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale.

[0050] A listing of the components is below:

[0051] 1 Replaceable fin

[0052] 10 main fin

[0053] 12 upper rear facing convex portion

[0054] 14 concave curved rear wall portion

[0055] 15 generally elongated lower edge

[0056] 16 upper convex curved edge

[0057] 20 Base

[0058] 22 alternating triangular cut-outs

[0059] 24 flat rear end

[0060] 25 rear narrow U-shaped cut-out in rear flat end

[0061] 26 flat front end

[0062] 27 C shaped cut-out in front flat end

[0063] 26 lower rectangular rim

[0064] 30 surfboard

[0065] 32 front end

[0066] 33 elongated convex curved right side

[0067] 34 rear end

[0068] 35 elongated convex curved left side

[0069] 36 top side

[0070] 40 bottom side

[0071] 45 narrow slit(s)

[0072] 47 longitudinal raised ridge

[0073] 49 set screw to lock base into front of slit 45

[0074] 100 Assembled view

[0075] FIG. 1A is an upper right side perspective view of a replaceable fin 1.

[0076] FIG. 1B is a lower front perspective view of the replaceable fin 1 of FIG. 1A.

[0077] FIG. 2A is a planar right side view of the replaceable fin 1 of FIG. 1A.

[0078] FIG. 2B is a front end view of the replaceable fin 1 of FIG. 2A along arrow 2B.

[0079] FIG. 3A is a planar left side view of the replaceable fin 1 of FIG. 1A. FIG. 3B is a rear end view of the replaceable fin 1 of FIG. 3A along arrow 3B.

[0080] FIG. 4A is a top view of the replaceable fin 1 of FIG. 1A. FIG. 4B is a bottom view of the replaceable fin 1 of FIG. 1A.

[0081] Referring to FIGS. 1A-4B, the replaceable fin 1 includes a main fin 10 and a base 20. The main fin 10 can have an upper rear facing convex portion 12, a concave curved rear wall portion 14, a generally elongated lower edge 15 and an upper convex curved edge 16.

[0082] The base 20 can have a generally elongated rectangular shape with alternating triangular cut-outs 22 passing through between a flat rear end 24 and a flat front end 26. The flat rear end 24 can have a narrow U-shaped cut-out therein. The flat front end 26 can have a C-shaped cut-out therein.

[0083] The bottom of the base 26 can have a lower generally rectangular rim 26.

[0084] A preferred embodiment of the fin 1 can have a height between the base 20 and the top of the fin to be approximately 4.91 inches. The fin 1 can have a maximum length between its front end and rear end of approximately 9.35 inches.

[0085] The length of the base 20 between the rear end 25 and the front end 26 can be approximately 4.31 inches. The base 20 can have a height of approximately 0.695 inches, and the width of the base 20 can be approximately .275 inches.

[0086] Referring to FIGS. 1A-4B, the novel fin 1 can be machined out of a single solid piece of metal or metal alloy, such as approximately 100% solid aluminum.

[0087] Other metal materials can include metals such as but not limited to titanium and stainless steel.

[0088] Metal alloys can include metal alloys such as but not limited to 3003 aluminum alloy, 5052 aluminum alloy, 6061 aluminum alloy, 6063 aluminum alloy, 7075 aluminum alloy, Ti-6Al-4V titanium alloy, Grade 5 titanium alloy, Grade 6 titanium alloy, Grade 7titanium alloy, Grade 11 titanium alloy, and the like.

[0089] The machined solid metal fin 1 can have a smooth finish on all sides and has no openings, cracks, or crevices.

[0090] Once machined into a fin shape, all exterior surfaces can be brushed with a metal protectant coating.

[0091] An example of a metal protectant coating can include metal protectant coatings such as but not limited to SHARKHIDE metal protectant, primer, paint, anodizing, and the like.

[0092] FIG. 5A is an upper rear perspective view of the novel surfboard 30 to use the replaceable fin 1 of FIGS. 1A-4B. FIG. 5B is an upper front perspective view of the surfboard 30 of FIG. 5A.

[0093] FIG. 6A is lower front perspective view of the surfboard of 30 FIG. 5A. FIG. 6B is lower rear perspective view of the surfboard 30 of FIG. 6A.

[0094] FIG. 7A is an upper planar view of the surfboard 30 of FIG. 5A. FIG. 7B is a side view of the surfboard 30 of FIG. 7A along arrow 7B. FIG. 7C is a right end view of the surfboard 30 of FIG. 7A along arrow 7C. FIG. 7D is a left end view of the surfboard 30 of FIG. 7A along arrow 7D.

[0095] FIG. 8A is lower planar view of the surfboard 30 of FIG. 5A. FIG. 8B is a side view of the surfboard 30 of FIG. 8A along arrow 8B.

[0096] Referring to FIGS. 5A-8B, the surfboard 30 can include a narrow tip front end 32, and narrow tip rear end 34, with an elongated convex curved right side 33 and elongated convex curved left side 35 therebetween.

[0097] The surfboard 30 can include a generally flat top side 36 and a generally flat bottom side 40, with a plurality of narrow slits 45 along a rear portion of the bottom side 40.

[0098] The surfboard 30 can have a length of up to approximately 120 inches, a width of up to approximately 25 inches, and a thickness of up to approximately 4 inches.

[0099] Each of the slits 45 can have a length of approximately 4.5 inches, a width of approximately .275 inches and a depth of approximately .75 inches.

[0100] In one preferred embodiment, a twin fin set up can be used as shown in FIGS. 9A-12D.

[0101] FIG. 9A is an upper rear perspective assembled view 100 of the surfboard 30 of FIGS. 5A-8B with pair of replaceable fins of FIGS. 1A-4B mounted to the bottom of the surfboard. FIG. 9B is an upper front perspective assembled view of the surfboard 30 of FIGS. 5A-8B with pair of replaceable fins 1 of FIGS. 1A-4B mounted to bottom 40 of the surfboard 30.

[0102] FIG. 10A is lower perspective view of the surfboard 30 of FIGS. 5A-8B with pair of replaceable fins 1 of FIGS. 1A-4B mounted to the bottom side 40 of the surfboard 30. FIG. 10B is another lower perspective view of the surfboard 30 of FIGS. 5A-8B with pair of replaceable fins 1 of FIGS. 1A-4B mounted to the bottom 40 of the surfboard 30.

[0103] FIG. 11A is a top planar view of the surfboard 30 with mounted fins 1 of FIGS. 9A-10B. FIG. 11B is a side view of the surfboard 30 of FIG. 11A with mounted fins 1 along arrow 11B.

[0104] FIG. 11C is a front end view of the surfboard of FIG. 11A with mounted fins along arrow 11C. FIG. 11D is a rear end view of the surfboard 30 of FIG. 11A with mounted fins 1 along arrow 11D.

[0105] FIG. 12A is a bottom view of the surfboard 30 with mounted fins 1 of FIGS. 9A-11B.

[0106] FIG. 12 B is a side view of the surfboard 30 of FIG. 12 A with mounted fins 1 along arrow 12B.

[0107] FIG. 12C is another bottom view of the surfboard 30 with mounted fins 1 of FIGS. 9A-11B.

[0108] FIG. 12D is a cross-sectional view of a fin 1 mounted in a slit 45 in the surfboard 30 of FIG. 12C along arrows A-A.

[0109] FIG. 13 is another cross-sectional view of a preferred example of mounting the fin base to a slit in the surfboard.

[0110] Referring to FIG. 13, a preferred example of mounting the base 20 of each fin 1 into one of the slits 45 is through the use of a semi-circle cutout (rear narrow U-shaped cut-out) 25 in the rear of the fin base 20 that fits over a longitudinal raised ridge 47 that protrudes forward from inside the rear of the surfboard slit 45. This secures the rear of the fin base 20 into the slit 45. The front of the fin base 20 can be secured into the slit 45 using a set screw 49 that can be screwed at an angle into the slit 45 at the front of the base 20. This is how the base 20 of each fin 1 is securely mounted into the slit 45 of the board.

[0111] The alternating triangular cut-outs are used to reduce the weight of the base, and subsequently the overall fin design. Triangles are used as the preferred shape because they are known to be the strongest shape; therefore, quite a bit of material can be removed from the base while still retaining the structural integrity of the base that is holding the fin into the board. However, other shapes like rectangles, circles, etc. could also be used to remove material from the base and make it weigh less.

[0112] The base of the novel fin can be fitted with a mounting bracket, such as but not limited to the Futures mounting system (U.S. Published Patent Application 20070202760 to Caldwell et al.) which is incorporated by reference), Fin Control Systems (FCS) mounting system (U.S. Published Patent Application 20160288882 to Scott et al., which is incorporated by reference), and the like.

[0113] Once the mounting bracket is created, the mounting bracket can attach the novel fin to surfboards having a mateable receptacle on the surfboard.

[0114] While a preferred embodiment of the assembled surfboard with fin shows a twin pair of fins mounted in two slits, the invention can be practiced with only one fin 1 mounted in a central slit, or mounting 2, 3, 4 and 5 fins mounted in the slits in any combination or location.

[0115] Although the preferred embodiment shows one configuration of a fin shape, and surfboard shape, other fin shapes and other surfboard shapes can be used.

[0116] The term "approximately” / ”approximate” can be + / - 10% of the amount referenced. Additionally, preferred amounts and ranges can include the amounts and ranges referenced without the prefix of being approximately.

[0117] Although specific advantages have been enumerated above, various embodiments may include some, none, or all of the enumerated advantages.

[0118] Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to the systems, apparatuses, and methods described herein without departing from the scope of the disclosure. For example, the components of the systems and apparatuses may be integrated or separated. Moreover, the operations of the systems and apparatuses disclosed herein may be performed by more, fewer, or other components and the methods described may include more, fewer, or other steps. Additionally, steps may be performed in any suitable order. As used in this document, “each” refers to each member of a set or each member of a subset of a set.

[0119] To aid the Patent Office and any readers of any patent issued on this application in interpreting the claims appended hereto, applicants wish to note that they do not intend any of the appended claims or claim elements to invoke 35 U.S.C. 112(f) unless the words “means for” or “step for” are explicitly used in the particular claim.

[0120] The term "approximately” is similar to the term “about” and can be + / - 10% of the amount referenced. Additionally, preferred amounts and ranges can include the amounts and ranges referenced without the prefix of being approximately.

[0121] While the invention has been described, disclosed, illustrated and shown in various terms of certain embodiments or modifications which it has presumed in practice, the scope of the invention is not intended to be, nor should it be deemed to be, limited thereby and such other modifications or embodiments as may be suggested by the teachings herein are particularly reserved especially as they fall within the breadth and scope of the claims here appended.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0044]Before explaining the disclosed embodiments of the present invention in detail it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its applications to the details of the particular arrangements shown since the invention is capable of other embodiments. Also, the terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation.

[0045]In the Summary above and in the Detailed Description of Preferred Embodiments and in the accompanying drawings, reference is made to particular features (including method steps) of the invention. It is to be understood that the disclosure of the invention in this specification does not include all possible combinations of such particular features. For example, where a particular feature is disclosed in the context of a particular aspect or embodiment of the invention, that feature can also be used, to the extent possible, in combination with and / or in the context of other particular aspects and embodiments of the invention, an...

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 63 / 755,681 filed February 7, 2025. The entire disclosure of each application listed in this paragraph are incorporated herein by specific reference thereto.FIELD OF INVENTION

[0002] This invention relates to surfboard fins, and in particular to fin devices, and methods for retrofitting surfboards with a fin having a core formed from solid metal or solid metal alloy, with the fin core surface having a metal protectant layer thereon.BACKGROUND AND PRIOR ART

[0003] Surfboards, windsurfing boards, kitesurfing boards, and paddle boards are often made through a standard production technique in which polyurethane foam is cut to a desired shape and then encased in a fiber-reinforced plastic skin, such as fiberglass. The low-density polyurethane foam core material is used in an effort to minimize weight. However, such a core, though light, provides minimal strength to resist breakage, and traditional polyurethane foam / fiberglass surfboards are known to break easily, especially in large surf.

[0004] Attempts have been made over the years to form surfboards from honeycomb cores. See for example, U.S. Patent 7,845,999 to Conner, Jr., which is incorporated by reference in its’ entirety. However, Conner ‘999 is primarily directed toward the board core and not to the fin part of the surfboard.

[0005] The fins used on surfboards, windsurfing boards, kitesurfing boards, and paddle boards, have often been made of various materials, such as fiberglass, epoxy, carbon fiber, plastic, wood / bamboo, resin composites over a core material, recycled plastics and woods, and honeycomb for high performance.

[0006] A removable fin used for surfboards, windsurfing boards, kitesurfing boards, and paddle boards, has been proposed to be made from titanium or a titanium alloy such as Ti 6Al-4V, which is described in U.S. Patent 10,926,846 to Miller, which is incorporated in its’ entirety. The Miller ‘846 as the titanium / alloy fin core having a fin shape require a plurality of circular and oval holes to assist in the flexibility of the fins as well as to reduce the costs of using additional titanium / alloy materials in those holes. Miller ‘846 generally requires the holes be filled with an over molding and the exterior of the fin core having an outer flexible cover thereon.

[0007] In addition to the expensive manufacturing process needed to create the titanium / alloy fin with holes and overmolding in the holes with a flexible cover, the cost of titanium is more expensive than other metals such as aluminum.

[0008] Thus, the need exists for solutions to the above problems with the prior art.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0009] A primary objective of the present invention is to provide a one-piece removable fin for surfboards, that is made from a solid metal core, or a solid metal alloy core without holes in the core.

[0010] A secondary objective of the present invention is to provide a one-piece removable fin for surfboards, that is made from a solid metal core, or a solid metal alloy having a clear metal protectant layer on the outer surface of the fin to prevent corrosion.

[0011] Further objects and advantages of this invention will be apparent from the following detailed description of the presently preferred embodiments which are illustrated schematically in the accompanying drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

[0012] The drawing figures depict one or more implementations in accord with the present concepts, by way of example only, not by way of limitations. In the figures, like reference numerals refer to the same or similar elements.

[0013] FIG. 1A is an upper right side perspective view of a replaceable fin.

[0014] FIG. 1B is a lower front perspective view of the replaceable fin of FIG. 1A.

[0015] FIG. 2A is a planar right-side view of the replaceable fin of FIG. 1A.

[0016] FIG. 2B is a front-end view of the replaceable fin of FIG. 2A along arrow 2B.

[0017] FIG. 3A is a planar left side view of the replaceable fin of FIG. 1A.

[0018] FIG. 3B is a rear end view of the replaceable fin of FIG. 3A along arrow 3B.

[0019] FIG. 4A is a top view of the replaceable fin of FIG. 1A.

[0020] FIG. 4B is a bottom view of the replaceable fin of FIG. 1A.

[0021] FIG. 5A is an upper rear perspective view of the novel surfboard to use the replaceable fin of FIGS. 1A-4B.

[0022] FIG. 5B is an upper front perspective view of the surfboard of FIG. 5A.

[0023] FIG. 6A is lower front perspective view of the surfboard of FIG. 5A.

[0024] FIG. 6B is lower rear perspective view of the surfboard of FIG. 6A.

[0025] FIG. 7A is an upper-planner view of the surfboard of FIG. 5A.

[0026] FIG. 7B is a side view of the surfboard of FIG. 7A along arrow 7B.

[0027] FIG. 7C is a right end view of the surfboard of FIG. 7A along arrow 7C.

[0028] FIG. 7D is a left end view of the surfboard of FIG. 7A along arrow 7D.

[0029] FIG. 8A is lower planar view of the surfboard of FIG. 5A.

[0030] FIG. 8B is a side view of the surfboard of FIG. 8A along arrow 8B.

[0031] FIG. 9A is an upper rear perspective view of the surfboard of FIGS. 5A-8B with pair of replaceable fins of FIGS. 1A-4B mounted to the bottom of the surfboard.

[0032] FIG. 9B is an upper front perspective view of the surfboard of FIGS. 5A-8B with pair of replaceable fins of FIGS. 1A-4B mounted to bottom of the surfboard.

[0033] FIG. 10A is lower perspective view of the surfboard of FIGS. 5A-8B with pair of replaceable fins of FIGS. 1A-4B mounted to the bottom of the surfboard.

[0034] FIG. 10B is another lower perspective view of the surfboard of FIGS. 5A-8B with pair of replaceable fins of FIGS. 1A-4B mounted to the bottom of the surfboard.

[0035] FIG. 11A is a top planar view of the surfboard with mounted fins of FIGS. 9A-10B.

[0036] FIG. 11B is a side view of the surfboard of FIG. 11A with mounted fins along arrow 11B.

[0037] FIG. 11C is a front-end view of the surfboard of FIG. 11A with mounted fins along arrow 11C.

[0038] FIG. 11D is a rear end view of the surfboard of FIG. 11A with mounted fins along arrow 11D.

[0039] FIG. 12A is a bottom view of the surfboard with mounted fins of FIGS. 9A-11B.

[0040] FIG. 12B is a side view of the surfboard of FIG. 12 A with mounted fins along arrow 12B.

[0041] FIG. 12C is another bottom view of the surfboard with mounted fins of FIGS. 9A-11B.

[0042] FIG. 12D is a cross-sectional view of a fin mounted in a slit in the surfboard of FIG. 12C along arrows A-A.

[0043] FIG. 13 is another cross-sectional view of a preferred example of mounting the fin base to a slit in the surfboard.DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0044] Before explaining the disclosed embodiments of the present invention in detail it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its applications to the details of the particular arrangements shown since the invention is capable of other embodiments. Also, the terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation.

[0045] In the Summary above and in the Detailed Description of Preferred Embodiments and in the accompanying drawings, reference is made to particular features (including method steps) of the invention. It is to be understood that the disclosure of the invention in this specification does not include all possible combinations of such particular features. For example, where a particular feature is disclosed in the context of a particular aspect or embodiment of the invention, that feature can also be used, to the extent possible, in combination with and / or in the context of other particular aspects and embodiments of the invention, and in the invention generally.

[0046] In this section, some embodiments of the invention will be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which preferred embodiments of the invention are shown. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout, and prime notation is used to indicate similar elements in alternative embodiments.

[0047] Other technical advantages may become readily apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art after review of the following figures and description.

[0048] It should be understood at the outset that, although exemplary embodiments are illustrated in the figures and described below, the principles of the present disclosure may be implemented using any number of techniques, whether currently known or not. The present disclosure should in no way be limited to the exemplary implementations and techniques illustrated in the drawings and described below.

[0049] Unless otherwise specifically noted, articles depicted in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale.

[0050] A listing of the components is below:

[0051] 1 Replaceable fin

[0052] 10 main fin

[0053] 12 upper rear facing convex portion

[0054] 14 concave curved rear wall portion

[0055] 15 generally elongated lower edge

[0056] 16 upper convex curved edge

[0057] 20 Base

[0058] 22 alternating triangular cut-outs

[0059] 24 flat rear end

[0060] 25 rear narrow U-shaped cut-out in rear flat end

[0061] 26 flat front end

[0062] 27 C shaped cut-out in front flat end

[0063] 26 lower rectangular rim

[0064] 30 surfboard

[0065] 32 front end

[0066] 33 elongated convex curved right side

[0067] 34 rear end

[0068] 35 elongated convex curved left side

[0069] 36 top side

[0070] 40 bottom side

[0071] 45 narrow slit(s)

[0072] 47 longitudinal raised ridge

[0073] 49 set screw to lock base into front of slit 45

[0074] 100 Assembled view

[0075] FIG. 1A is an upper right side perspective view of a replaceable fin 1.

[0076] FIG. 1B is a lower front perspective view of the replaceable fin 1 of FIG. 1A.

[0077] FIG. 2A is a planar right side view of the replaceable fin 1 of FIG. 1A.

[0078] FIG. 2B is a front end view of the replaceable fin 1 of FIG. 2A along arrow 2B.

[0079] FIG. 3A is a planar left side view of the replaceable fin 1 of FIG. 1A. FIG. 3B is a rear end view of the replaceable fin 1 of FIG. 3A along arrow 3B.

[0080] FIG. 4A is a top view of the replaceable fin 1 of FIG. 1A. FIG. 4B is a bottom view of the replaceable fin 1 of FIG. 1A.

[0081] Referring to FIGS. 1A-4B, the replaceable fin 1 includes a main fin 10 and a base 20. The main fin 10 can have an upper rear facing convex portion 12, a concave curved rear wall portion 14, a generally elongated lower edge 15 and an upper convex curved edge 16.

[0082] The base 20 can have a generally elongated rectangular shape with alternating triangular cut-outs 22 passing through between a flat rear end 24 and a flat front end 26. The flat rear end 24 can have a narrow U-shaped cut-out therein. The flat front end 26 can have a C-shaped cut-out therein.

[0083] The bottom of the base 26 can have a lower generally rectangular rim 26.

[0084] A preferred embodiment of the fin 1 can have a height between the base 20 and the top of the fin to be approximately 4.91 inches. The fin 1 can have a maximum length between its front end and rear end of approximately 9.35 inches.

[0085] The length of the base 20 between the rear end 25 and the front end 26 can be approximately 4.31 inches. The base 20 can have a height of approximately 0.695 inches, and the width of the base 20 can be approximately .275 inches.

[0086] Referring to FIGS. 1A-4B, the novel fin 1 can be machined out of a single solid piece of metal or metal alloy, such as approximately 100% solid aluminum.

[0087] Other metal materials can include metals such as but not limited to titanium and stainless steel.

[0088] Metal alloys can include metal alloys such as but not limited to 3003 aluminum alloy, 5052 aluminum alloy, 6061 aluminum alloy, 6063 aluminum alloy, 7075 aluminum alloy, Ti-6Al-4V titanium alloy, Grade 5 titanium alloy, Grade 6 titanium alloy, Grade 7titanium alloy, Grade 11 titanium alloy, and the like.

[0089] The machined solid metal fin 1 can have a smooth finish on all sides and has no openings, cracks, or crevices.

[0090] Once machined into a fin shape, all exterior surfaces can be brushed with a metal protectant coating.

[0091] An example of a metal protectant coating can include metal protectant coatings such as but not limited to SHARKHIDE metal protectant, primer, paint, anodizing, and the like.

[0092] FIG. 5A is an upper rear perspective view of the novel surfboard 30 to use the replaceable fin 1 of FIGS. 1A-4B. FIG. 5B is an upper front perspective view of the surfboard 30 of FIG. 5A.

[0093] FIG. 6A is lower front perspective view of the surfboard of 30 FIG. 5A. FIG. 6B is lower rear perspective view of the surfboard 30 of FIG. 6A.

[0094] FIG. 7A is an upper planar view of the surfboard 30 of FIG. 5A. FIG. 7B is a side view of the surfboard 30 of FIG. 7A along arrow 7B. FIG. 7C is a right end view of the surfboard 30 of FIG. 7A along arrow 7C. FIG. 7D is a left end view of the surfboard 30 of FIG. 7A along arrow 7D.

[0095] FIG. 8A is lower planar view of the surfboard 30 of FIG. 5A. FIG. 8B is a side view of the surfboard 30 of FIG. 8A along arrow 8B.

[0096] Referring to FIGS. 5A-8B, the surfboard 30 can include a narrow tip front end 32, and narrow tip rear end 34, with an elongated convex curved right side 33 and elongated convex curved left side 35 therebetween.

[0097] The surfboard 30 can include a generally flat top side 36 and a generally flat bottom side 40, with a plurality of narrow slits 45 along a rear portion of the bottom side 40.

[0098] The surfboard 30 can have a length of up to approximately 120 inches, a width of up to approximately 25 inches, and a thickness of up to approximately 4 inches.

[0099] Each of the slits 45 can have a length of approximately 4.5 inches, a width of approximately .275 inches and a depth of approximately .75 inches.

[0100] In one preferred embodiment, a twin fin set up can be used as shown in FIGS. 9A-12D.

[0101] FIG. 9A is an upper rear perspective assembled view 100 of the surfboard 30 of FIGS. 5A-8B with pair of replaceable fins of FIGS. 1A-4B mounted to the bottom of the surfboard. FIG. 9B is an upper front perspective assembled view of the surfboard 30 of FIGS. 5A-8B with pair of replaceable fins 1 of FIGS. 1A-4B mounted to bottom 40 of the surfboard 30.

[0102] FIG. 10A is lower perspective view of the surfboard 30 of FIGS. 5A-8B with pair of replaceable fins 1 of FIGS. 1A-4B mounted to the bottom side 40 of the surfboard 30. FIG. 10B is another lower perspective view of the surfboard 30 of FIGS. 5A-8B with pair of replaceable fins 1 of FIGS. 1A-4B mounted to the bottom 40 of the surfboard 30.

[0103] FIG. 11A is a top planar view of the surfboard 30 with mounted fins 1 of FIGS. 9A-10B. FIG. 11B is a side view of the surfboard 30 of FIG. 11A with mounted fins 1 along arrow 11B.

[0104] FIG. 11C is a front end view of the surfboard of FIG. 11A with mounted fins along arrow 11C. FIG. 11D is a rear end view of the surfboard 30 of FIG. 11A with mounted fins 1 along arrow 11D.

[0105] FIG. 12A is a bottom view of the surfboard 30 with mounted fins 1 of FIGS. 9A-11B.

[0106] FIG. 12 B is a side view of the surfboard 30 of FIG. 12 A with mounted fins 1 along arrow 12B.

[0107] FIG. 12C is another bottom view of the surfboard 30 with mounted fins 1 of FIGS. 9A-11B.

[0108] FIG. 12D is a cross-sectional view of a fin 1 mounted in a slit 45 in the surfboard 30 of FIG. 12C along arrows A-A.

[0109] FIG. 13 is another cross-sectional view of a preferred example of mounting the fin base to a slit in the surfboard.

[0110] Referring to FIG. 13, a preferred example of mounting the base 20 of each fin 1 into one of the slits 45 is through the use of a semi-circle cutout (rear narrow U-shaped cut-out) 25 in the rear of the fin base 20 that fits over a longitudinal raised ridge 47 that protrudes forward from inside the rear of the surfboard slit 45. This secures the rear of the fin base 20 into the slit 45. The front of the fin base 20 can be secured into the slit 45 using a set screw 49 that can be screwed at an angle into the slit 45 at the front of the base 20. This is how the base 20 of each fin 1 is securely mounted into the slit 45 of the board.

[0111] The alternating triangular cut-outs are used to reduce the weight of the base, and subsequently the overall fin design. Triangles are used as the preferred shape because they are known to be the strongest shape; therefore, quite a bit of material can be removed from the base while still retaining the structural integrity of the base that is holding the fin into the board. However, other shapes like rectangles, circles, etc. could also be used to remove material from the base and make it weigh less.

[0112] The base of the novel fin can be fitted with a mounting bracket, such as but not limited to the Futures mounting system (U.S. Published Patent Application 20070202760 to Caldwell et al.) which is incorporated by reference), Fin Control Systems (FCS) mounting system (U.S. Published Patent Application 20160288882 to Scott et al., which is incorporated by reference), and the like.

[0113] Once the mounting bracket is created, the mounting bracket can attach the novel fin to surfboards having a mateable receptacle on the surfboard.

[0114] While a preferred embodiment of the assembled surfboard with fin shows a twin pair of fins mounted in two slits, the invention can be practiced with only one fin 1 mounted in a central slit, or mounting 2, 3, 4 and 5 fins mounted in the slits in any combination or location.

[0115] Although the preferred embodiment shows one configuration of a fin shape, and surfboard shape, other fin shapes and other surfboard shapes can be used.

[0116] The term "approximately” / ”approximate” can be + / - 10% of the amount referenced. Additionally, preferred amounts and ranges can include the amounts and ranges referenced without the prefix of being approximately.

[0117] Although specific advantages have been enumerated above, various embodiments may include some, none, or all of the enumerated advantages.

[0118] Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to the systems, apparatuses, and methods described herein without departing from the scope of the disclosure. For example, the components of the systems and apparatuses may be integrated or separated. Moreover, the operations of the systems and apparatuses disclosed herein may be performed by more, fewer, or other components and the methods described may include more, fewer, or other steps. Additionally, steps may be performed in any suitable order. As used in this document, “each” refers to each member of a set or each member of a subset of a set.

[0119] To aid the Patent Office and any readers of any patent issued on this application in interpreting the claims appended hereto, applicants wish to note that they do not intend any of the appended claims or claim elements to invoke 35 U.S.C. 112(f) unless the words “means for” or “step for” are explicitly used in the particular claim.

[0120] The term "approximately” is similar to the term “about” and can be + / - 10% of the amount referenced. Additionally, preferred amounts and ranges can include the amounts and ranges referenced without the prefix of being approximately.

[0121] While the invention has been described, disclosed, illustrated and shown in various terms of certain embodiments or modifications which it has presumed in practice, the scope of the invention is not intended to be, nor should it be deemed to be, limited thereby and such other modifications or embodiments as may be suggested by the teachings herein are particularly reserved especially as they fall within the breadth and scope of the claims here appended.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0044]Before explaining the disclosed embodiments of the present invention in detail it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its applications to the details of the particular arrangements shown since the invention is capable of other embodiments. Also, the terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation.

[0045]In the Summary above and in the Detailed Description of Preferred Embodiments and in the accompanying drawings, reference is made to particular features (including method steps) of the invention. It is to be understood that the disclosure of the invention in this specification does not include all possible combinations of such particular features. For example, where a particular feature is disclosed in the context of a particular aspect or embodiment of the invention, that feature can also be used, to the extent possible, in combination with and / or in the context of other particular aspects and embodiments of the invention, an...

Claims

1. A fin device for surfboards, comprising:a fin shaped core formed from a solid piece of metal; anda metal protectant layer coating all sides of the fin shaped core, wherein the fin shaped core with metal protectant coating layer is mountable to a surfboard.

2. The fin shaped device of claim 1, wherein the solid piece of metal includes:Aluminum.

3. The fin shaped device of claim 1, wherein the solid piece of metal includes:Aluminum alloy.

4. The fin-shaped device of claim 1, further comprising:an elongated rectangular base formed on the fin shaped core, with a plurality of cut-outs out that pass from one side of the base to another side of the base.

5. The fin-shaped device of claim 4, wherein the plurality of cut-outs includes:Alternating triangular shapes along the base.

6. A method of making a solid metal or metal alloy fin for a surfboard, comprising the steps of:providing a solid piece of metal; andmachining the solid piece of metal into a fin shape for surfboards; andcoating all surfaces of the machined fin shape with a metal protectant coating.

7. The method of claim 6, wherein the solid piece of metal includes:Aluminum.

8. The method of claim 6, wherein the solid piece of metal includes:Aluminum alloy.

9. The method of claim 1, further comprising the step of:forming an elongated rectangular base on the fin shaped core; andproviding a plurality of cut-outs out along the base that pass from one side of the base to another side of the base.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein the plurality of cut-outs includes:Alternating triangular shapes along the base.

11. A surfboard assembly, comprising: at least one fin shaped core formed from a solid piece of aluminum or an aluminum alloy; anda metal protectant layer coating all sides of the at least one fin shaped core, wherein the fin shaped core with metal protectant coating layer;an elongated rectangular base formed on each fin shaped core, with a plurality of cut-outs out that pass from one side of the base to another side of the base; a surfboard having a top side and a bottom side, and a front narrow tip end, and rear narrow tip end;a plurality of parallel slits on the bottom side of the surfboard adjacent the rear narrow tip end, wherein the base of the at least one fin shaped core is mounted into one of the plurality of parallel slits, wherein the surfboard and the mounted at least one fin shaped core are useful for surfing on ocean waves.

12. The surfboard assembly of claim 11, wherein the plurality of cut-outs in the base include:alternating triangular shapes along the base.

13. The surfboard assembly of claim 11, wherein the at least one fin shaped core includes:a pair of fin shaped cores arranged in a twin pattern substantially parallel to each other mounted in a pair of parallel slits.

14. The surfboard assembly of claim 11, wherein the elongated base of each fin includes a rear longitudinal narrow U-shaped cut-out, and a rear portion of each slit includes a longitudinal raised ridge which mates with the rear narrow U-shaped cut-out; and each slit includes an angled setscrew for attaching a front of each elongated base into each slit.

15. The surfboard assembly of claim 12, wherein the elongated base of each fin includes a rear longitudinal narrow U-shaped cut-out, and a rear portion of each slit includes a longitudinal raised ridge which mates with the rear narrow U-shaped cut-out; and each slit includes an angled setscrew for attaching a front of each elongated base into each slit.

16. The surfboard assembly of claim 13, wherein the elongated base of each fin includes a rear longitudinal narrow U-shaped cut-out, and a rear portion of each slit includes a longitudinal raised ridge which mates with the rear narrow U-shaped cut-out; and each slit includes an angled setscrew for attaching a front of each elongated base into each slit.

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