Multi-function system for a pair of roller skis

Abstract

The invention relates to a multi-function system (M) for a pair of roller skis (S1, S2), comprising a first connection part (1) and a second connection part (2), and a coupler (3) configured to releasably connect the first roller ski (S1) to the second roller ski (S2) along an axis parallel to the axes of rotation of the wheels (R) of the roller skis (S1, S2), to form a stable assembly and to impose a fixed distance between the first connection part (1) and the second connection part (2), the coupler (3) comprising a first spacer end (311), a second spacer end (312) and a spacer body (313). At least one of the first spacer end (311) and the second spacer end (312) is configured to engage releasably with the corresponding connection part (1, 2).

Description

Multifunctional system for a pair of roller skis

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of roller skis, and more particularly to a multifunctional system for a pair of roller skis.

[0002] Roller skis are devices that are designed to be worn by a user to allow them to move around, rediscovering the sensations of skiing on a snow-free surface.

[0003] There are motorless roller skis that allow a user to move in the same way as they would with cross-country or touring skis, that is, by reproducing the same movements. There are also motorized roller skis that allow the sensations of downhill skiing to be reproduced. French patent application FR3142910, for example, discloses roller skis with a powered and pivoting front wheel. Documents EP0992263A1 and US3777956A describe the state of the art.

[0004] However, roller skis have some drawbacks. They can be difficult for the user to put on, especially when they are unable to sit down. In addition, they can also be difficult for the user to lift or carry, for example due to their weight and size. These problems can be even more pronounced when the user is a child.

[0005] Therefore, the prior art solutions proposed for roller skis still have drawbacks and improvements are possible.

[0006] The present invention aims in particular to solve the problems indicated above by proposing a multifunctional system for a pair of roller skis.

[0007] Thus, the present invention relates to a multifunctional system for a pair of wheeled skis, characterized in that the system comprises: a first connecting part secured to a first wheeled ski of the pair of wheeled skis; a second connecting part secured to a second wheeled ski of the pair of wheeled skis, the first connecting part and the second connecting part being configured to be arranged opposite each other on each of the wheeled skis of the pair of wheeled skis when said wheeled skis are aligned side by side on a flat surface;and a coupler configured to releasably connect the first ski wheel to the second ski wheel along an axis parallel to axes of rotation of the wheels of the pair of ski wheels, to form a stable assembly and to impose a fixed distance between the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion, the coupler comprising a spacer having a first spacer end configured to engage with the first connecting portion, a second spacer end configured to engage with the second connecting portion, and a spacer body extending between the first and second spacer ends, at least one of the first spacer end and the second spacer end being configured to releasably engage with the corresponding connecting portion.;

[0008] As mentioned in the introduction, there are roller skis comprising a steering wheel, for example roller skis with a pivoting front wheel. In this case, within the meaning of the invention, the term "axis of rotation of the wheels of the pair of roller skis" means the axes of rotation of the wheels defined in a state of rest, that is to say a state in which the axes of rotation of the front and rear wheels of a roller ski are parallel.

[0009] It will be understood that the formation, using the multifunctional system, of a stable assembly from the pair of roller skis allows a user to put on the roller skis more easily, even when the user is unable to sit down.

[0010] It will also be understood that the formation of such a stable assembly makes it easier for the user to transport the pair of roller skis.

[0011] It will also be understood that, according to a variant not shown, the multifunction system may comprise latches at each releasable engagement, such that a user can lock the multifunction system by key after the stable assembly has been formed. The multifunction system then also has an anti-theft function. It will be understood that, in this case, the multifunction system, for example the spacer body, preferably comprises an attachment system, for example a ring, making it possible to attach, for example using a cable, the multifunction system to an item of street furniture, for example a lamppost or a bicycle rack.

[0012] According to a particular embodiment, a gripping member is formed on the spacer body to allow a user to grip the spacer body in order to lift the pair of roller skis in one piece and allow the pair of roller skis to be transported, when the roller skis are not worn by the user and the spacer is engaged with the first and second connecting parts.

[0013] It will be understood that the gripping member allows the user to more easily grasp the spacer body to lift the pair of roller skis.

[0014] It will also be understood that, preferably, the gripping member has an ergonomic three-dimensional shape designed to receive the user's hand, or a portion thereof. It will also be understood that the gripping member is preferably configured to have a length greater than the width of the user's hand, in order to facilitate the user's gripping of the gripping member, for example a length of 12 cm.

[0015] According to a particular embodiment, the first connecting part, respectively the second connecting part, is one of a connecting part integrated into a body of the respective ski-wheel of the pair of ski-wheels, and a connecting part integrated into a securing device configured to be secured to a body of the respective ski-wheel of the pair of ski-wheels.

[0016] Preferably, each connecting part is integrated into the body of the respective ski-wheel. It will be understood that several technical solutions can be used to obtain a ski-wheel body in which the connecting part is integrated, for example screwing, a single piece, riveting, welding or gluing.

[0017] Furthermore, as a variant, the first connecting part and the second connecting part can each be integrated into a respective securing device configured to be secured to the body of the respective ski-wheel, such that the multifunctional system adapts to existing ski-wheels by retrofitting. The securing device can, for example, be secured to the respective ski-wheel by welding, gluing, screwing or clamping, for example clamping with two jaws in the manner of a vice.

[0018] According to a particular embodiment, one of the first connecting part, respectively the second connecting part, and the first spacer end, respectively the second spacer end, comprises a “T” groove;and the other of the first connecting portion, respectively the second connecting portion, and the first spacer end, respectively the second spacer end, comprises an extension having a joining portion and a distal end, beyond the joining portion, a cross-section of which is larger than a cross-section of the joining portion, and each releasable engagement is achieved by engaging a "T" groove and a respective extension, by sliding the joining portion into a portion of the "T" groove corresponding to the shaft of the "T" and by sliding the distal end into a portion of the "T" groove corresponding to the cross-member of the "T".;

[0019] This configuration allows for releasable engagements between the spacer ends and the connecting parts by form fit and sliding.

[0020] It will be understood that other technical solutions could be implemented to achieve a releasable engagement, for example the use of magnets, the use of a ring and hook or the use of an elastic fit.

[0021] According to a particular embodiment, a bearing is arranged between the elements of at least one of: an assembly comprising the spacer body and the first spacer end, such that the first spacer end is able to rotate relative to the spacer body, an assembly comprising the spacer body and the second spacer end, such that the second spacer end is able to rotate relative to the spacer body, and where appropriate, an assembly comprising a securing device and the respective connecting part, such that said connecting part is able to rotate relative to the respective securing device.

[0022] According to a particular embodiment, a maximum dimension of the cross-section of each joining portion is less than a width of the portion of the respective "T" groove corresponding to the shaft of the "T", and a maximum dimension of the cross-section of each distal end is less than a width of the portion of the respective "T" groove corresponding to the crosspiece of the "T", such that each extension can rotate in the respective "T" groove, after engagement.

[0023] Preferably, the joining portions are cylinders having a diameter less than a width of the portion of the respective "T" groove corresponding to the shaft of the "T". It will be understood, however, that according to variants, the joining portions could have other shapes, for example the shape of a prism with a polygonal base.

[0024] Preferably still, the distal ends are cylinders whose diameter is less than the width of the portion of the respective "T" groove corresponding to the crosspiece of the "T". It will be understood, however, that other shapes are possible, for example prisms with a polygonal base.

[0025] According to a particular embodiment, a maximum dimension of the cross-section of each joining portion is less than a width of the portion of the respective "T" groove corresponding to the shaft of the "T", each "T" groove further comprises an interior chamber, and the cross-section of each distal end comprises at least a first dimension less than a width of the portion of the respective "T" groove corresponding to the cross-member of the "T", and a second dimension both greater than the width of the portion of the respective "T" groove corresponding to the cross-member of the "T" and less than a minimum dimension of a cross-section of the respective interior chamber, such that each extension can slide into the respective "T" groove and then be locked therein, by rotation of the distal end in the interior chamber.

[0026] Preferably, the joining portions are cylinders having a diameter less than a width of the portion of the respective "T" groove corresponding to the shaft of the "T". It will be understood, however, that according to variants, the joining portions could have other shapes, for example the shape of a prism with a polygonal base.

[0027] More preferably, each inner chamber is in the form of a cylindrical recess, the axis of the cylinder being parallel to the shaft of the "T" of the respective "T" groove. It will be understood, however, that according to variants, the inner chambers could be in other forms, for example a recess having the form of a prism with a polygonal base.

[0028] Preferably still, the distal ends have the shape of an oval-based prism. It will be understood, however, that according to variants, the distal ends could have other shapes.

[0029] Thus, each extension can slide into the respective "T" groove and then be locked therein by the user, preferably by a 90° rotation of the spacer, along the axis parallel to the axes of rotation of the wheels of the pair of ski-wheels, causing a rotation of the distal ends in their respective inner chamber.

[0030] According to a particular embodiment, the first spacer end, respectively the second spacer end, comprises a first position locking means; and the first connecting part, respectively the second connecting part, comprises a second position locking means; and the first spacer end, respectively the second spacer end, is locked in a use position relative to the first connecting part, respectively the second connecting part, by cooperation of the first and second position locking means, the first and second position locking means being chosen from: two magnets; and a pair of a recess and one of a spring-loaded rod and a spring-loaded ball.

[0031] It will be understood that, preferably, the position locking means make it possible to maintain the spacer ends in a prescribed use position after locking, for example after a 90° rotation of the spacer ends in the connecting parts along the axis parallel to the axes of rotation of the wheels of the pair of ski-wheels.

[0032] It will also be understood that the locking means can, as a variant, be used as a notch to indicate to the user a good position of the spacer relative to the connecting parts, before a possible rotation along the axis parallel to the axes of rotation of the wheels of the pair of ski-wheels. The locking means in position can then be placed on the axis of rotation of the spacer, that is to say the axis parallel to the axes of rotation of the wheels of the pair of ski-wheels.

[0033] It will also be understood that the position locking means may implement other technical solutions, for example a tight fit, a friction force, or other spring-loaded elements.

[0034] Finally, it will be understood that the position locking means are preferably configured to allow a user to manually unlock the position locking means.

[0035] According to a particular embodiment, the multifunction system is configured to be used with motorized roller skis, a housing being formed in the spacer body to receive a remote control for controlling at least one motor of the roller skis.

[0036] According to a particular embodiment, the housing comprises at least one window configured to allow a user to manipulate at least one control button of the remote control received in the housing, and the spacer body is configured to, when the spacer is not engaged with the connecting parts, be held in the hand by the user in order to control a movement of the roller skis using the remote control.

[0037] This configuration allows the user to hold the multifunction system in his hand, when he has put on the roller skis, to control his movement on the roller skis.

[0038] It will be understood that the number of windows is chosen according to the remote control intended to be received in the housing. Other windows may, for example, be provided to expose a display device of the remote control or to allow manipulation of buttons for selecting operating modes of the roller skis. The control button may, for example, be a trigger-type button or a control lever-type button.

[0039] An opening may be provided in the spacer body, for example a hatch in the spacer body or a spacer body formed of two shells joined by means of a hinge, allowing access to the housing to remove the remote control, either to change the batteries or to change the remote control, while keeping the coupler.

[0040] According to a particular embodiment, the coupler further comprises a gripping portion connected to the spacer body by a telescopic portion, the telescopic portion being configured to selectively extend the gripping portion away from the spacer body and retract the gripping portion toward the spacer body, and the gripping portion being configured to allow gripping by a user in order to tow the pair of roller skis in one piece and allow transport of the pair of roller skis, when the roller skis are not worn by the user and the spacer is engaged with the first and second connecting portions.

[0041] Preferably, the telescopic portion comprises two telescopic tubes each extending between a respective end of the gripping portion and the spacer body. It will be understood, however, that, according to a variant, the telescopic portion may comprise a single telescopic tube connecting a central portion of the gripping portion and the spacer body.

[0042] According to a particular embodiment, the gripping part comprises a remote control configured to control an unlocking of the first spacer end, respectively of the second spacer end, from the first connecting part, respectively from the second connecting part.

[0043] For example, if the position locking means use spring-loaded elements, the remote control may be a cable system urging the spring-loaded elements against the springs. For example, if the position locking means use magnets, more precisely electromagnets, the remote control may be a system for controlling the electromagnets.

[0044] According to a particular embodiment, the gripping portion comprises at least one control button configured to control at least one of braking of the roller skis and acceleration of the roller skis.

[0045] This configuration allows the user to control the motorized roller skis during transport, when the user has extended the telescopic part and pulls the roller skis using the gripping part.

[0046] According to a particular embodiment, one of the first spacer end and the second spacer end is permanently engaged and hinged with the corresponding connecting part, such that the coupler is foldable along the ski-wheel to which it is permanently connected.

[0047] Preferably, the coupler can be folded down like a crutch along the corresponding ski-wheel so as not to interfere with the use of the ski-wheels.

[0048] The articulated connection may, for example, include a pivot connection or a ball joint.

[0049] Furthermore, it will be understood that the releasable engagement of the spacer end configured to releasably engage with its corresponding connecting part may be of different natures, and may for example involve a "T" groove in which an extension slides in a manner analogous to a multifunction system with double releasable engagement.

[0050] It may be specified here that the use of a "T" groove comprising an inner chamber on the releasable engagement side may also allow rotational locking, for example by 90°, along the axis parallel to the axes of rotation of the wheels of the pair of ski-wheels, of the extension in the inner chamber in a manner analogous to a multifunctional system with double releasable engagement. In this case, it will be understood that if the permanent articulated connection is implemented by a pivot connection type hinge, the pivot connection is mounted on a bearing allowing the user to drive the spacer in rotation along the axis parallel to the axes of rotation of the wheels of the pair of ski-wheels, after releasable engagement of the extension with the respective connection part.It will also be understood that the use of a ball joint for the permanent articulated connection directly allows the user to perform the necessary rotation along the axis parallel to the axes of rotation of the wheels of the pair of ski-wheels.

[0051] Particular embodiments of the present invention will now be described, with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0052] On these drawings:

[0053] is a top view of a pair of roller skis on which is mounted a multifunction system according to a first embodiment of the invention.

[0054] is a perspective view of the coupler.

[0055] is a perspective view of the first connecting part of the multifunction system of the, arranged on the first ski-wheel.

[0056] is an exploded view of a connecting part of the multifunction system of the.

[0057] is a perspective view of the outer part of the connecting part of the, on which the inner chamber is visible.

[0058] is a perspective view of the pair of roller skis and the multifunction system of the, the coupler is rotated 90° relative to the.

[0059] is a perspective view of the pair of roller skis and the multifunctional system of the, the telescopic part is extended.

[0060] is a perspective view of a variant of the first embodiment of the multifunction system, the telescopic part is extended.

[0061] If we first refer to the, we can see that there is shown a multifunction system M according to a first embodiment of the present invention, mounted on a pair of roller skis S1, S2.

[0062] A multifunction system M according to the invention comprises a first connecting part 1, a second connecting part 2 and a coupler 3.

[0063] The first connecting part 1 is secured to a first ski-wheel S1 of the pair of ski-wheels S1, S2 and the second connecting part 2 is secured to a second ski-wheel S2 of the pair of ski-wheels S1, S2.

[0064] In addition, the first connecting part 1 and the second connecting part 2 are configured to be arranged opposite each other on each of the ski wheels S1, S2 of the pair of ski wheels S1, S2, when said ski wheels S1, S2 are aligned side by side on a flat surface.

[0065] According to the first embodiment shown in Figures 1 to 6, the first connecting part 1 and the second connecting part 2 are integrated into a body C of the respective ski-wheel S1, S2 of the pair of ski-wheels S1, S2.

[0066] However, as a variant and according to an embodiment of the multifunction system M not shown, the first connecting part 1 and the second connecting part 2 are each integrated into a respective securing device configured to be secured to a body C of the respective ski-wheel S1, S2 of the pair of ski-wheels S1, S2, such that the multifunction system M adapts to existing ski-wheels S1, S2 by retrofitting.

[0067] According to the invention, the coupler 3 is configured to releasably connect the first ski-wheel S1 to the second ski-wheel S2 along an axis parallel to axes of rotation of the wheels R of the pair of ski-wheels S1, S2, to form a stable assembly and to impose a fixed distance between the first connecting part 1 and the second connecting part 3.

[0068] As mentioned in the introduction, there are ski-wheels S1, S2 comprising a steered wheel R, for example ski-wheels S1, S2 with a pivoting front wheel R. In this case, for the purposes of the invention, the term "axes of rotation of the wheels R of the pair of ski-wheels S1, S2" means the axes of rotation of the wheels R defined in a state of rest, that is to say a state in which the front wheel R of the ski-wheel S1, S2 is aligned with the rear wheel R of the ski-wheel S1, S2 with their axes of rotation parallel. This state of rest is illustrated in Figures 1, 3, 5a and 5b.

[0069] Referring also to the figure on which a coupler 3 according to the first embodiment has been shown, it can be seen that the coupler 3 comprises a spacer 31 having a first spacer end 311, a second spacer end 312, and a spacer body 313.

[0070] The first spacer end 311 is configured to engage with the first connecting portion 1, the second spacer end 312 is configured to engage with the second connecting portion 2, and the spacer body 313 extends between the first and second spacer ends 311, 312.

[0071] It will be understood that the formation, using the multifunctional system M, of a stable assembly from the pair of roller skis S1, S2 allows in particular a user to put on the roller skis S1, S2 more easily, even when the user does not have the possibility of sitting down.

[0072] It will also be understood that the formation of such a stable assembly allows a user to lift and transport the pair of roller skis S1, S2 in one piece.

[0073] It will also be understood that, according to a variant not shown, the multifunction system M may comprise latches at each releasable engagement, such that a user can lock the multifunction system M by key after the stable assembly has been formed. The multifunction system then also has an anti-theft function. It will be understood that, in this case, the multifunction system M, for example the spacer body 313, preferably comprises an attachment system, for example a ring, making it possible to attach, for example using a cable, the multifunction system M to an element of street furniture, for example a lamppost or a bicycle rack.

[0074] Thus, a coupler 3 according to the invention preferably comprises a gripping member 313a formed on the spacer body 313 to allow the user to grip the spacer body 313 in order to lift the pair of roller skis S1, S2 in one piece and allow the pair of roller skis S1, S2 to be transported, when the roller skis S1, S2 are not worn by the user and the spacer 31 is engaged with the first and second connecting parts 1, 2. It will be understood that, preferably, the gripping member 313a has an ergonomic three-dimensional shape designed to receive the user's hand, or a portion thereof. It will also be understood that the gripping member 313a is preferably configured to have a length greater than the width of the user's hand, in order to facilitate the user's gripping of the gripping member 313a, for example a length of 12 cm.

[0075] Still preferably, the coupler 3 further comprises a gripping portion 33 connected to the spacer body 313 by a telescopic portion 32. The telescopic portion 32 is configured to selectively extend the gripping portion 33 away from the spacer body 313 and retract the gripping portion 33 towards the spacer body 313. The gripping portion 33 is configured to allow gripping by the user in order to tow the pair of roller skis S1, S2 in one piece and allow transport of the pair of roller skis S1, S2, when the roller skis S1, S2 are not worn by the user and the spacer 31 is engaged with the first and second connecting portions 1, 2.

[0076] Lapresents a coupler 3 according to the invention with the telescopic part 32 in the retracted position while lapresents a coupler 3 according to the invention with the telescopic part 32 in the extended position. Lapresents the multifunction system M in a configuration allowing the user to tow the pair of roller skis S1, S2 in one piece by means of the gripping part 33.

[0077] In Figures 2 and 6, the telescopic part comprises two telescopic tubes each extending between a respective end of the gripping part 33 and the spacer body 313. It will be understood, however, that, according to a variant not shown, the telescopic part 32 could comprise a single telescopic tube connecting a central part of the gripping part 33 and the spacer body 313.

[0078] As mentioned above, according to the invention, the coupler 3 is configured to releasably connect the first ski-wheel S1 to the second ski-wheel S2. This effect can be obtained either by the combination of a releasable engagement between the coupler 3 and the first ski-wheel S1 and a releasable engagement between the coupler 3 and the second ski-wheel S2, or by the combination of a releasable engagement between the coupler 3 and one of the ski-wheels S1, S2 and a permanent engagement between the coupler 3 and the other of the ski-wheels S1, S2.

[0079] According to the first embodiment shown in Figures 1 to 6, and as will be described in more detail below, the first spacer end 311 and the second spacer end 312 are configured to releasably engage with their corresponding connecting portion 1, 2.

[0080] However, according to a non-shown embodiment which will be described in more detail below, one of the first spacer end 311 and the second spacer end 312 is permanently engaged to its corresponding connecting portion 1, 2, and the other of the first spacer end 311 and the second spacer end 312 is configured to releasably engage with its corresponding connecting portion 1, 2.

[0081] For the purposes of the invention, the term “releasable engagement” or “releasable connection” means an engagement or connection which can be released by hand by a user, by manipulating the coupler 3 and / or the connection parts 1, 2.

[0082] It will therefore be understood that different technical solutions can be implemented to obtain a releasable engagement, for example the use of magnets, the use of a ring and a hook or the use of an elastic fitting.

[0083] However, for the first embodiment of the invention, a form-fitting and sliding engagement is preferred to allow a releasable engagement between the spacer ends 311, 312 and their corresponding connecting portions 1, 2, respectively.

[0084] In addition, for the first embodiment shown in Figures 1 to 6, the multifunction system M is designed such that the second spacer end 312 is a mirror symmetry of the first spacer end 311, with respect to a median transverse plane of the spacer body 313, and that the first and second connecting parts 1, 2 are arranged on the ski wheels S1, S2 such that the second ski wheel S2 is a mirror symmetry of the first ski wheel S1.

[0085] It will be understood, however, that, according to certain embodiments not shown, the symmetries mentioned above may, in certain cases, not be respected.

[0086] As can be better seen in Figures 3 and 4a, the first connecting part 1 comprises a “T” groove 11. Furthermore, as indicated above, for the first embodiment, the second connecting part 2 is a mirror symmetry of the first connecting part 1, such that the second connecting part 2 also comprises a similar “T” groove 21.

[0087] According to the first embodiment shown in the, the connecting parts 1, 2 each comprise an outer part 12, 22, a central part 13, 23 and an inner part 14, 24, assembled together by screwing. It will be understood that other technical solutions can also be used for this assembly, for example riveting, gluing or welding. It will also be understood that for each connecting part 1, 2, depending on the needs, two or three parts among the outer part 12, 22, the central part 13, 23 and the outer part 14, 24 could be formed in one piece.

[0088] The outer part 12, 22 of each connecting part 1, 2 receives the corresponding “T” groove 11, 21.

[0089] The inner part 14, 24 of each connecting part 1, 2 is secured to the respective ski-wheel S1, S2. According to the first embodiment, each inner part 14, 24 is integrated into the body C of the respective ski-wheel S1, S2 and is secured thereto by screwing. It will however be understood that the securing can be achieved by another technical solution, for example by a single piece, by riveting, by welding or by gluing. It will also be understood that the same screws can be used to assemble the outer part 12, 22, the central part 13, 23 and the outer part 14, 24 together and to secure the outer part 14, 24 to the respective ski-wheel S1, S2.It will also be understood that, according to a variant, first screws can be used to secure the outer part 14, 24 to the respective ski-wheel S1, S2, and second screws can be used to assemble the outer part 12, 22, the central part 13, 23 and the outer part 14, 24 together. As mentioned above, as a variant and according to an embodiment of the multifunction system M not shown, so that the multifunction system M can be adapted to existing ski-wheels S1, S2 by retrofitting, the first connecting part 1 and the second connecting part 2 can each be integrated into a respective securing device configured to be secured to a body C of the respective ski-wheel S1, S2.It will then be understood that the outer part 14, 24 is secured to the respective securing device, for example by screwing, riveting, welding or gluing, and that the securing device is secured to the respective ski-wheel S1, S2, for example by welding, gluing, screwing or clamping, for example clamping with two jaws in the manner of a vice.

[0090] The central portion 13, 23 is interposed between the outer portion 12, 22 and the inner portion 14, 24 and may comprise position-locking means 4 configured to maintain the spacer ends 311, 312 in a prescribed use position. These position-locking means 4 will be described in more detail below.

[0091] As can be better seen in the, the first spacer end 311, respectively the second spacer end 312, comprises an extension 311a, 312a. Each extension 311a, 312a has a joining portion 311b, 312b and a distal end 311c, 312c, beyond the joining portion 311b, 312b. In addition, a cross-sectional area of ​​each distal end 311c, 312c is larger than a cross-sectional area of ​​the respective joining portion 311b, 312b.

[0092] Thus, for the first embodiment of the invention, each releasable engagement is achieved by engaging a “T” groove 11, 21 and a respective extension 311a, 312a, by sliding the joining portion 311b, 312b in a portion 11a, 21a of the “T” groove 11, 21 corresponding to the shaft of the “T” and by sliding the distal end 311c, 312c in a portion 11b, 21b of the “T” groove 11, 21 corresponding to the crosspiece of the “T”.

[0093] It will be understood that, according to a variant of the first embodiment not shown, the male parts and the female parts can be reversed, that is to say that the connecting parts 1, 2 could comprise the extensions 311a, 312a and the spacer ends 311, 312 could comprise the “T” grooves 11, 21. It will also be understood that in this case, the engagement of the connecting parts 1, 2 and the spacer ends 311, 312 remains similar to that described above.

[0094] For the first embodiment of the multifunction system M shown in Figures 1 to 5, and as can be better seen in the, a maximum dimension of the cross-section of each joining portion 311b, 312b is less than a width of the portion 11a, 21a of the respective “T” groove 11, 21 corresponding to the shaft of the “T”. According to the first embodiment, the joining portions 311b, 312b are cylinders whose diameter is less than a width of the portion 11a, 21a of the respective “T” groove 11, 21 corresponding to the shaft of the “T”. It will be understood, however, that according to variants not shown, the joining portions 311b, 312b could have other shapes, for example the shape of a prism with a polygonal base.

[0095] Furthermore, as can be better seen in the, each “T” groove 11, 21 further comprises an inner chamber 11c, 21c. According to the first embodiment, each inner chamber 11c, 21c is in the form of a cylindrical recess, the axis of the cylinder of which is parallel to the barrel of the “T” of the respective “T” groove 11, 21. It will be understood, however, that according to variants not shown, the inner chambers 111, 211 could be in other forms, for example a recess having the form of a prism with a polygonal base.

[0096] Furthermore, referring to Figures 2 to 4b, the cross-section of each distal end 311c, 312c comprises at least a first dimension less than a width of the portion 11b, 21b of the respective “T” groove 11, 21 corresponding to the cross-member of the “T”, and a second dimension both greater than the width of the portion 11b, 21b of the respective “T” groove corresponding to the cross-member of the “T” and less than a minimum dimension of a cross-section of the respective inner chamber 11c, 21c. According to the variant of the first embodiment shown in the, the distal ends 311c, 312c have the shape of a prism with an oval base. It will be understood, however, that according to variants not shown, the distal ends 311c, 312c could have other shapes.

[0097] Thus, each extension 311a, 312a can slide in the respective “T” groove 11, 21 and then be locked therein by the user, by a 90° rotation of the spacer 31, along the axis parallel to the axes of rotation of the wheels R of the pair of ski-wheels S1, S2, causing a rotation of the distal ends 311c, 312c in their respective inner chamber 11c, 21c.

[0098] Lapresents a variant of the first embodiment. This variant is identical to that shown in except for the distal ends 311c, 312c. Thus, for the variant shown in, a maximum dimension of the cross-section of each distal end 311c, 312c is less than a width of the portion 11b, 21b of the respective “T” groove 11, 21 corresponding to the crosspiece of the “T”. In particular, for the illustrated variant, the distal ends 311c, 312c are cylinders whose diameter is less than the width of the portion 11b, 21b of the respective “T” groove 11, 21 corresponding to the crosspiece of the “T”. It will be understood that other shapes are possible, for example prisms with a polygonal base. It will also be understood that each extension 311a, 312a can then rotate freely in the respective “T” groove 11, 21, after engagement.It will therefore be understood that this variant, unlike the variant shown in, does not allow locking between the extensions 311a, 312a and the “T” grooves 11, 21 by cooperation of the distal ends 311c, 312c and the inner chambers 11c, 21c after rotation of the spacer 31 through 90° along the axis parallel to the axes of rotation of the wheels R of the pair of ski-wheels S1, S2, such that, in this case, the “T” grooves 11, 21 can be free of inner chamber 11c, 21c.

[0099] It will be understood that a free rotation, that is to say without locking, of the spacer body 313 along the axis parallel to the axes of rotation of the wheels R of the pair of ski-wheels S1, S2 relative to the ski-wheels S1, S2 allows for example a user to lift the ski-wheels S1, S2 by grasping the spacer body 313, without needing to change his grip on the spacer body 313 during lifting.

[0100] It will also be understood that, according to embodiments not shown, free rotation, i.e. without locking, of the spacer body 313 along the axis parallel to the axes of rotation of the wheels R of the pair of ski-wheels S1, S2 relative to the ski-wheels S1, S2 can be obtained by the use of bearings, for example by the use of a bearing arranged between the spacer body 313 and the first end of the spacer 311, such that the first end of the spacer 311 is able to rotate relative to the spacer body 313, and a bearing arranged between the spacer body 313 and the second end of the spacer 312, such that the second end of the spacer 312 is able to rotate relative to the spacer body 313, or, still for example, in the case where the multifunction system M comprises devices of solidarity,by the use of a bearing arranged between each securing device and the respective connecting part 1, 2, such that each connecting part 1, 2 is able to rotate relative to the respective securing device.,

[0101] Furthermore, it will be understood that the use of a symmetrical structure for the connecting parts 1, 2 and the spacer ends 311, 312, as shown in Figures 1 to 6, allows the coupler 3 to be mounted in both directions, i.e. the first spacer end 311 could also be releasably engaged with the second connecting part 2, the second spacer end 312 then being releasably engaged with the first connecting part 1.

[0102] In some cases, however, it may be sought to obtain a foolproof effect, such that the coupler 3 can only be engaged with the connecting parts 1, 2 in one prescribed direction. Thus, according to a variant, a “T” groove 11, 21 / extension 311a, 312a pair may have larger dimensions than the other “T” groove 11, 21 / extension 311a, 312a pair. According to another variant, the male part and the female part could be reversed for only one of the pairs, that is to say that one connecting part 1, 2 could comprise a "T" groove 11, 21 while the other connecting part 1, 2 would comprise an extension 311a, 312a, and that one spacer end 311, 312 could comprise an extension 311a, 312a while the other spacer end 311, 312 would comprise a "T" groove 11, 21.

[0103] As mentioned above, according to the first embodiment shown in Figures 1 to 5, the multifunction system M further comprises position locking means 4 configured to maintain the spacer ends 311, 312 in a prescribed use position relative to the connecting parts 1, 2.

[0104] Referring to the, it can be seen that each distal end 311c, 312c comprises a first locking means in position 4 in the form of two magnets received in two recesses formed in the corresponding distal end 311c, 312c.

[0105] Referring to the, it can be seen that each connecting part 1, 2 comprises a second locking means in position 4 in the form of two magnets received in recesses formed in the central part 13, 23 and in the corresponding inner part 14, 24.

[0106] For the first embodiment, it will be understood that the locking means in position 4 make it possible to maintain the spacer ends 311, 312 in a prescribed position of use, after a 90° rotation of the spacer ends 311, 312 in the connecting parts 1, 2, along the axis parallel to the axes of rotation of the wheels R of the pair of ski-wheels S1, S2.

[0107] It will also be understood that the locking means in position 4 could, as a variant, be used as a notch making it possible to indicate to the user a good position of the spacer 31 relative to the connecting parts 1, 2, before a possible rotation along the axis parallel to the axes of rotation of the wheels R of the pair of ski-wheels S1, S2. The magnets could then be placed on the axis of rotation of the spacer 31, that is to say the axis parallel to the axes of rotation of the wheels R of the pair of ski-wheels S1, S2.

[0108] It will also be understood that the locking means in position 4 may implement other technical solutions, in addition to or in replacement of the magnets, for example a tight fit, a friction force, or spring-loaded elements, for example balls or rods, cooperating with correspondingly formed recesses. It will also be understood that the locking means in position 4 are preferably configured to allow a user to manually unlock the locking means in position 4.

[0109] In the case of a multifunction system M comprising a gripping part 33, the gripping part 33 may comprise a remote control configured to control an unlocking of the first spacer end 311, respectively of the second spacer end 312, from the first connecting part 1, respectively from the second connecting part 2. For example, if the locking means in position 4 use spring-loaded elements, the remote control may be a cable system urging the spring-loaded elements against the springs. For example still, if the locking means in position 4 use magnets, more precisely electromagnets, the remote control may be a system for controlling the electromagnets.

[0110] According to the first embodiment, the multifunction system M is configured to be used with motorized roller skis S1, S2. As best seen in Figures 2 and 6, a housing 313b is formed in the spacer body 313 to receive a remote control for controlling the roller skis. It will be understood that each roller ski S1, S2 may comprise one or more motors configured to drive the front wheel R and / or the rear wheel R.

[0111] In addition, the housing 313b comprises three windows 313c. A first window 313c is configured to allow the user to manipulate a control button, for example a trigger or control lever type button, of the remote control received in the housing 313b. Two other windows 313c are configured to expose a display device of the remote control and to allow manipulation of buttons for selecting operating modes of the roller skis S1, S2. It will be understood, however, that the number of windows 313c may vary depending on the remote control intended to be received in the housing 313b. The spacer body may be designed to provide access to the housing, via a hatch or two shells articulated by a hinge forming the spacer body, in particular to allow access to the remote control to change it or change the batteries.

[0112] Furthermore, the spacer body 313 is configured to, when the spacer 31 is not engaged with the connecting parts 1, 2, be held by hand by the user in order to control a movement of the ski-wheels S1, S2 using the remote control, for example by manipulating the trigger-type control button or control lever, to accelerate or brake the ski-wheels S1, S2. Thus, the first embodiment allows the user to hold the multifunction system M in his hand, when he has put on the ski-wheels S1, S2, to control his movement on the ski-wheels S1, S2.

[0113] According to an embodiment not shown, the gripping part 33 may further comprise one or more control buttons configured to control braking of the ski-wheels S1, S2 and acceleration of the ski-wheels S1, S2. This configuration notably allows the user to control the ski-wheels S1, S2 during transport, when the user has extended the telescopic part 32 and is pulling the ski-wheels S1, S2 using the gripping part 33.

[0114] It will also be understood that the multifunction system M may, alternatively, have a simpler configuration without housing 313b or window 313c. This simplified configuration may, for example, be used when the control system of the ski-wheels S1, S2 is not intended to be received in the coupler 3 or when the ski-wheels S1, S2 are not motorized.

[0115] Furthermore, as mentioned above, the coupler 3 is configured to releasably connect the first ski-wheel S1 to the second ski-wheel S2, and according to an embodiment not shown, one of the first spacer end 311 and the second spacer end 312 is permanently engaged with its corresponding connecting part 1, 2, and the other of the first spacer end 311 and the second spacer end 312 is configured to releasably engage with its corresponding connecting part 1, 2.

[0116] According to this embodiment, the spacer end 311, 312 permanently engaged to its corresponding connecting part 1, 2 is preferably engaged via an articulated connection, for example a pivot connection or a ball joint connection, such that in use the coupler 3 can be folded down like a stand along the corresponding ski-wheel S1, S2 so as not to hinder the use of the ski-wheels S1, S2.

[0117] Furthermore, it will be understood that the releasable engagement of the spacer end 311, 312 configured to releasably engage with its corresponding connecting part 1, 2 may be of different nature, and may for example involve a “T” groove 11, 21 in which an extension 311a, 312a slides in a manner analogous to that described above for a multifunction system M with double releasable engagement.

[0118] It can be specified here that the use of a “T” groove 11, 21 comprising an inner chamber 11c, 21c on the releasable engagement side can also allow locking by rotation of 90°, along the axis parallel to the axes of rotation of the wheels R of the pair of ski-wheels S1, S2, of the extension 311a, 312a in the inner chamber 11c, 21c in a manner analogous to that which was described above for a multifunction system M with double releasable engagement. In this case, it will be understood that if the permanent articulated connection is implemented by a pivot connection type hinge, the pivot connection is mounted on a bearing allowing the user to drive the spacer 31 in rotation along the axis parallel to the axes of rotation of the wheels R of the pair of ski-wheels S1, S2, after releasable engagement of the extension 311a, 312a with the respective connection part 1, 2.It will also be understood that the use of a ball joint for the permanent articulated connection directly allows the user to carry out the necessary rotation along the axis parallel to the axes of rotation of the wheels R of the pair of ski-wheels S1, S2.

[0119] According to the first embodiment, and as can be seen in Figures 1, and 3 to 5b, when the wheels R of the ski-wheels S1, S2 are resting on a horizontal surface, the “T” grooves 11, 21 of the connecting parts 1, 2 extend in a vertical direction. It will be understood, however, that according to embodiments not shown, the “T” grooves 11, 21 of the connecting parts 1, 2 could extend in other directions, for example a direction inclined at 45° relative to the vertical direction.

[0120] With reference to Figures 1, 5a and 5b, some uses of a multifunction system M according to the first embodiment will now be briefly described.

[0121] On the, the coupler 3 is releasably engaged with the connecting parts 1, 2, without locking. This configuration creates a stable assembly allowing for example to more easily put on the roller skis S1, S2. According to a variant of the, the gripping part 33 could be placed upwards and the telescopic part 32 could be extended, so that, once the roller skis S1, S2 are put on, the user could pull on the gripping part 33 to release the coupler 3 from the connecting parts 1, 2 so as to retrieve the coupler 3 without bending down.

[0122] On the, the coupler 3 is rotated 90° relative to the. The coupler 3 is therefore locked with the connecting parts 1, 2. This position can for example be used to lift the pair of roller skis S1, S2 by grasping the gripping member 313a.

[0123] On the, the coupler 3 is rotated 90° relative to the and the telescopic part 32 is extended to allow the pair of roller skis S1, S2 to be towed by grasping the gripping part 33.

[0124] It is understood that the particular embodiments which have just been described have been given for informational and non-limiting purposes, and that modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Claims

– Multifunction system (M) for a pair of wheeled skis (S1, S2), comprising:- a first connecting part (1) secured to a first wheeled ski (S1) of the pair of wheeled skis (S1, S2);- a second connecting part (2) secured to a second wheeled ski (S2) of the pair of wheeled skis (S1, S2), the first connecting part (1) and the second connecting part (2) being configured to be arranged facing each other on each of the wheeled skis (S1, S2) of the pair of wheeled skis (S1, S2) when said wheeled skis (S1, S2) are aligned side by side on a flat surface;and- a coupler (3) configured to releasably connect the first ski-wheel (S1) to the second ski-wheel (S2) along an axis parallel to axes of rotation of the wheels (R) of the pair of ski-wheels (S1, S2), to form a stable assembly and to impose a fixed distance between the first connecting part (1) and the second connecting part (2), the coupler (3) comprising a spacer (31) having a first spacer end (311) configured to engage with the first connecting part (1), a second spacer end (312) configured to engage with the second connecting part (2), and a spacer body (313) extending between the first and second spacer ends (311, 312), at least one of the first spacer end (311) and the second spacer end (312) being configured to releasably engage with the corresponding connecting part (1, 2);characterized in that the first connecting part (1), respectively the second connecting part (2), is one of a connecting part (1, 2) integrated into a body (C) of the respective ski-wheel (S1, S2) of the pair of ski-wheels (S1, S2), and a connecting part (1, 2) integrated into a securing device configured to be secured to a body (C) of the respective ski-wheel (S1, S2) of the pair of ski-wheels (S1, S2).; – System (M) according to claim 1, characterized in that a gripping member (313a) is formed on the spacer body (313) to allow gripping of the spacer body (313a) by a user in order to lift the pair of ski-wheels (S1, S2) in one piece and allow transport of the pair of ski-wheels (S1, S2), when the ski-wheels (S1, S2) are not worn by the user and the spacer (31) is engaged with the first and second connecting parts (1, 2). – System (M) according to claim 1 or claim 2, characterized in that one of the first connecting part (1), respectively the second connecting part (2), and the first spacer end (311), respectively the second spacer end (312), comprises a “T” groove (11, 21);and the other of the first connecting part (1), respectively the second connecting part (2), and the first spacer end (311), respectively the second spacer end (312), comprises an extension (311a, 312a) having a joining portion (311b, 312b) and a distal end (311c, 312c), beyond the joining portion (311b, 312b), a cross-section of which is larger than a cross-section of the joining portion (311b, 312b), and each releasable engagement is achieved by engaging a respective "T" groove (11, 21) and an extension (311a, 312a), by sliding the joining portion (311b, 312b) into a portion (11a, 21a) of the corresponding "T" groove (11, 21) to the barrel of the “T” and by sliding the distal end (311c, 312c) in a part (11b, 21b) of the “T” groove (11, 21) corresponding to the crosspiece of the “T”.; – System (M) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that a bearing is arranged between the elements of at least one of:an assembly comprising the spacer body (313) and the first spacer end (311), such that the first spacer end (311) is able to rotate relative to the spacer body (313),an assembly comprising the spacer body (313) and the second spacer end (312), such that the second spacer end (312) is able to rotate relative to the spacer body (313), andwhere appropriate, an assembly comprising a securing device and the respective connecting part (1, 2), such that said connecting part (1, 2) is able to rotate relative to the respective securing device. – System (M) according to claim 3, characterized in that a maximum dimension of the cross-section of each joining portion (311b, 312b) is less than a width of the part (11a, 21a) of the respective “T” groove (11, 21) corresponding to the shaft of the “T”, and that a maximum dimension of the cross-section of each distal end (311c, 312c) is less than a width of the part (11b, 21b) of the respective “T” groove (11, 21) corresponding to the cross-member of the “T”, such that each extension (311a, 312a) can rotate in the respective “T” groove (11, 21), after engagement. – System (M) according to claim 3, characterized in that:a maximum dimension of the cross-section of each joining portion (311b, 312b) is less than a width of the portion (11a, 21a) of the respective “T” groove (11, 21) corresponding to the shaft of the “T”,each “T” groove (11, 21) further comprises an inner chamber (11c, 21c), andthe cross-section of each distal end (311c, 312c) comprises at least a first dimension less than a width of the portion (11b, 21b) of the respective “T” groove (11, 21) corresponding to the cross-member of the “T”, and a second dimension both greater than the width of the portion (11b, 21b) of the respective “T” groove (11, 21) corresponding to the cross-member of the “T” and less than a minimum dimension of a cross-section of the chamber respective inner (11c, 21c), such that each extension (311a, 312a) can slide in the “T” groove (11,21) respective and then be locked therein, by rotation of the distal end (311c, 312c) in the inner chamber (11c, 21c)., – System (M) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the first spacer end (311), respectively the second spacer end (312), comprises a first position locking means (4); and the first connecting part (1), respectively the second connecting part (2), comprises a second position locking means (4); and the first spacer end (311), respectively the second spacer end (312), is locked in a use position relative to the first connecting part (1), respectively the second connecting part (2), by cooperation of the first and second position locking means (4), the first and second position locking means (4) being chosen from: two magnets; and a pair of a recess and one of a spring-loaded rod and a spring-loaded ball. – System (M) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the system (M) is configured to be used with motorized roller skis (S1, S2), a housing (313b) being formed in the spacer body (313) to receive a remote control for controlling at least one motor of the roller skis (S1, S2). – System (M) according to claim 8, characterized in that the housing (313b) comprises at least one window (313c) configured to allow a user to manipulate at least one control button of the remote control received in the housing (313b), and the spacer body (313) is configured to, when the spacer (31) is not engaged with the connecting parts (1, 2), be held by hand by the user in order to control a movement of the ski-wheels (S1, S2) using the remote control. – System (M) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the coupler (3) further comprises a gripping portion (33) connected to the spacer body (313) by a telescopic portion (32), the telescopic portion (32) being configured to selectively extend the gripping portion (33) away from the spacer body (313) and retract the gripping portion (33) towards the spacer body (313), and the gripping portion (33) being configured to allow gripping by a user in order to tow the pair of roller skis (S1, S2) in one piece and allow transport of the pair of roller skis (S1, S2), when the roller skis (S1, S2) are not worn by the user and the spacer (31) is engaged with the first and second connecting portions (1, 2). – System (M) according to claim 10 taken as a dependency of claim 7, characterized in that the gripping part (33) comprises a remote control configured to control an unlocking of the first spacer end (311), respectively of the second spacer end (312), from the first connecting part (1), respectively from the second connecting part (2). – System (M) according to any one of claims 10 and 11 taken as dependent on claim 8, characterized in that the gripping part (33) comprises at least one control button configured to control at least one of braking of the ski-wheels (S1, S2) and acceleration of the ski-wheels (S1, S2). – System according to any one of claims 1 and 2, 4 taken as a dependency of any one of claims 1 and 2, or 10 taken as a dependency of any one of claims 1 and 2 or 4 taken as a dependency of any one of claims 1 and 2, characterized in that one of the first spacer end (311) and the second spacer end (312) is permanently engaged and articulated with the corresponding connecting part (1, 2), so that the coupler (3) is foldable along the ski-wheel (S1, S2) to which it is permanently connected.

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