Support device, leg pad, knee guard for goalkeeper in ice sports or roller sports

Abstract

The support device (1) for supporting the thigh (30) of a goalkeeper in a kneeling position in ice sports or roller sports has a lower end (1A) and an upper end (1B), the lower end (1A) of the support device (1) being configured to be connected to a goalkeeper's leg pad (10) and the upper end (1B) being configured to be connected to a goalkeeper's knee guard (20) or to the thigh (30) of the goalkeeper, wherein the support device (1) is configured such that when in use, a supporting force acting via the support device (1) helps the goalkeeper to maintain a specific minimum angle (α) between the leg (31) and the thigh (30).

Description

[0001] SUPPORT DEVICE, LEG PAD, KNEE GUARD FOR GOALKEEPER IN ICE SPORTS OR ROLLER SPORTS

[0002] Technical field of the invention

[0003] The present invention concerns a support device for supporting the thigh of a goalkeeper in a kneeling position in ice sports or roller sports, as defined in claim 1 , and the use of such a support device. The invention further concerns a goalkeeper’s leg pad for ice sports or roller sports and the use of such a leg pad. The invention also concerns a goalkeeper’s knee guard for ice sports or roller sports and the use of such a knee guard.

[0004] Background of the invention

[0005] In ice hockey, so called butterfly style has become a very commonly used technique among goaltenders. Goaltenders using the butterfly style often drop to their knees and spread their legs to the sides to block the lower part of the goal. The arms are spread to block and catch shots aimed at upper parts of the goal. While the butterfly style has been found to be a very effective technique, it is also very challenging and straining for the goaltenders. In a butterfly save position, the joints of the knees and hips of the goaltender are often bent to extreme positions. This causes discomfort and also exposes the goaltender to stress injuries, in particular of the hip. During a single ice hockey game, the goaltender may drop to the knees tens of times. During training, the number of saves and thus the time spent in the butterfly position is even greater. The goaltenders’ training and playing is thus very wearing and may lead to stress injuries that may cause a need for medical rehabilitation and even surgery. In the worst case, the stress injuries may even end the career of a goaltender.

[0006] Similar save techniques can also be used by the goaltenders in other ice sports, such as ringette or rinkball, and in roller sports, such as inline hockey. Also in those sports the goaltenders are thus exposed to the discomfort and injury risk associated with the butterfly style.

[0007] Summary of the invention

[0008] An object of the invention is to provide a support device for supporting the thigh of a goalkeeper in a kneeling position in ice sports or roller sports. Other objects of the invention are to provide an improved goalkeeper’s leg pad and an improved goalkeeper’s knee guard for ice sports or roller sports. Further objects of the invention are to provide uses of said support device, leg pad and knee guard.

[0009] The support device according to the invention has a lower end and an upper end, the lower end of the support device being configured to be connected to a goalkeeper’s leg pad and the upper end being configured to be connected to a goalkeeper’s knee guard or to the thigh of the goalkeeper, wherein the support device is configured such that when in use, a supporting force acting via the support device helps the goalkeeper to maintain a specific minimum angle between the leg and the thigh.

[0010] The goalkeeper’s leg pad according to the invention comprises attachment means for connecting the lower end of the support device defined above to the leg pad.

[0011] The goalkeeper’s knee guard according to the invention comprises attachment means for attaching the support device defined above to the knee guard.

[0012] According to the invention, the support device, the leg pad and the knee guard can be used in ice sports, such as ice hockey, and / or in roller sports.

[0013] The support device according to the invention helps the goalkeeper to keep the hip higher up and in a more forward position than without the support device. The hip is also maintained in a better angle relative to the thighs. Also the skates of the goalkeeper are kept in a more comfortable and less straining position. The support device further helps the goalkeeper to maintain a more balanced position and reduces the effort needed for maintaining the butterfly position. As a result of the above-mentioned effects, the strain caused by training and playing is reduced and the risk of strain injuries is reduced.

[0014] The support device according to the invention is configured to cooperate with the leg pad. Similarly, the leg pad according to the invention is configured to cooperate with the support device. However, the support device could be configured to be attached to a standard leg pad. The support device and the leg pad can form an assembly configured to support the thigh of the goalkeeper in the butterfly position. The upper end of the support device can be configured to be used with standard knee guards or with knee guards configured for use with the support device. The support device and the knee guard can form an assembly configured to support the thigh of the goalkeeper in the butterfly position, when used with a leg pad. The leg pad can be provided with attachment means for the support device, or the leg pad can be a standard leg pad and the support device can be provided with attachment means. The support device, the leg pad and the knee guard can form an assembly. The support device can be integrated to the leg pad and / or to the knee guard. However, it can also be a separate device that can be attached to any leg pad that is provided with suitable attachment means, or even to a standard leg pad. The support device can also be used in retrofit solutions. A leg pad could be modified by adding suitable attachment means for the support device according to the invention. Also a knee guard could be modified by adding suitable attachment means for the support device according to the invention. Alternatively, the support device can be provided with attachment means allowing it to be attached to a standard leg pad. The support device could also be attached to a leg pad using separate attachment means, such as straps.

[0015] According to an embodiment of the invention, the support device comprises an arm having a lower end and an upper end, and a curved support portion arranged at the upper end of the arm and configured to contact the back and sides of the goalkeeper’s thigh. The arm of the support device can be straight or have any other suitable shape. A support device with a curved support portion can be supported directly against the thigh of the goalkeeper, and can be used without a knee guard or with a standard knee guard. However, the support portion could also be configured to be attached to a knee guard, or it could be part of a knee guard. The support portion is thus not an essential feature of the support device.

[0016] According to an embodiment of the invention, the arm is configured to be pivotable and, optionally, moveable relative to the leg pad. The leg pad can be provided with a fixed attachment point, and the support device can pivot, at least to a certain extent, about the attachment point. The lower end of the arm of the support device can thus be configured to be pivotably connected to the leg pad. The leg pad can be provided with attachment means allowing the lower end of the support device to move relative to the leg pad within predetermined limits. The leg pad does thus not have a fixed attachment point, but an attachment area or a moveable attachment point allowing limited movement of the support device. The lower end of the arm can be provided with attachment means configured to cooperate with the respective attachment means of the leg pad. Alternatively, the arm can be pivotable about an attachment point that is part of the support device. The lower end of the arm of the support device can thus be pivotably connected to an attachment point of the support device. The lower end of the support device can be configured to be attached non- moveably to the leg pad.

[0017] According to an embodiment of the invention, the length of the support device, is adjustable. For example, the length of the arm can be adjustable. By adjusting the length of the support device, the position to which the support device guides the thigh of the goalkeeper can be adjusted. This allows the goalkeeper to adapt the support device according to his or her personal needs and preferences.

[0018] According to an embodiment of the invention, the support device is provided with attachment means for attaching the support device to the leg pad.

[0019] According to an embodiment of the invention, the attachment means comprise a plate that is configured to be inserted between parts of a landing pad of the leg pad. Many leg pads are provided with landing pads comprising two or more parts that are detachably attached to each other, for instance using hook and loop (Velcro) fasteners. Such leg pads can typically be modified by the goalkeeper by adding or removing parts. A plate that is insertable between the parts of the landing pad may allow the support device to be used with a standard leg pad without a need to modify the leg pad. Also, the support device can be attached to the leg pad without a need to use attachment means extending to the side of the leg pad that faces the ice in the butterfly position. The functioning of the leg pad is thus not affected by the attachment means.

[0020] According to an embodiment of the invention, the plate is provided with hook and loop (Velcro) fasteners for attaching the plate to the parts of the landing pad. The plate can be provided on one side with a hook part and on the opposite side with a loop part such that each side of the plate can be attached to the respective parts of the landing pad.

[0021] According to an embodiment of the invention, the support device is configured such that when in use, the angle between the femur and tibia of the goalkeeper in a butterfly position is at least 60 degrees. However, the angle could also be different, depending on the anatomy and preferences of the goalkeeper.

[0022] According to an embodiment of the invention, the support device is provided with attachment means configured for quick-release attachment to the leg pad and / or to the knee guard. Similarly, the attachment means of the leg pad and / or the knee guard may be configured for quick-release attachment of the support device. The user may prefer to use the support device only in certain situations, such as during training, and it is thus beneficial that the support device can be easily detached from other equipment.

[0023] According to an embodiment of the invention, the support device is configured such that it contacts in the butterfly position the ice to form a support point for the support device. This prevents the leg pad from turning backwards about a longitudinal axis of the leg pad.

[0024] According to an embodiment of the invention, the attachment means of the leg pad are attached to a landing pad on the medial side of the leg pad and / or to a pad arranged in the longitudinal direction of the leg pad below the landing pad. The landing pad and the pad below the landing pad typically provide a sufficiently rigid and firm structure for attachment of the support device. Attachment to the landing pad or other pad on the medial side of the leg pad also allows positioning the attachment point of the support device sufficiently far from the front side of the leg pad, thus allowing the support device to be in an angle effectively supporting the thigh of the goalkeeper without significantly limiting the movements of the goalkeeper.

[0025] According to an embodiment of the invention, the attachment means comprise an arched support part extending in the lateral direction of the leg pad at least partly over the leg pad and being attached to the leg pad at least in two positions. The arched support part forms firm attachment means for the support device.

[0026] According to an embodiment of the invention, the leg pad is provided with an attachment point for pivotably connecting the support device to the leg pad, and the attachment point is located from the center line of a knee cradle of the leg pad at a distance that is 20-60 percent of the distance between the lower end of the lowermost medial side pad of the leg pad and said centerline of the knee cradle. According to an embodiment of the invention, an attachment point for the support device is positioned in the upper third of the lower half of the leg pad. A suitable positioning of the attachment point of the support device ensures that the support device can properly support the thigh of the goalkeeper, while limiting the movements of the goalkeeper as little as possible.

[0027] According to an embodiment of the invention, the support device is pivotably connected to the leg pad via an attachment point that is positioned rearwards from a leg channel of the leg pad. According to an embodiment of the invention, the attachment point of the support device is located in the depth direction of the leg pad in the rearmost third of the leg pad. It is beneficial to position the attachment point of the support device relatively far from the front side of the leg pad to keep the support device in a suitable angle.

[0028] According to an embodiment of the invention, the attachment means of the leg pad are configured such that the attachment means contact in the butterfly position the ice to form a support point for the support device. This prevents the leg pad from turning backwards about a longitudinal axis of the leg pad.

[0029] Brief description of the drawings

[0030] Embodiments of the invention are described below in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which

[0031] Figs. 1 to 4 show a support device and a goaltender’s leg pad according to a first embodiment of the invention,

[0032] Figs. 5 to 8 show a support device and a goaltender’s leg pad according to a second embodiment of the invention,

[0033] Figs. 9 to 11 show a support device and a goaltender’s leg pad according to a third embodiment of the invention,

[0034] Figs. 12 shows a goaltender in the butterfly position wearing the support device and the leg pad according to embodiments of the invention,

[0035] Fig. 13A shows a side view of a goaltender in the butterfly position wearing the support device according to the invention, Fig. 13B shows a goaltender without the support device in the butterfly position,

[0036] Figs. 14A-14C show schematically the support device and the leg pad according to embodiments of the invention in different positions,

[0037] Figs. 15 to 17 show a goaltender’s knee guard according to an embodiment of the invention,

[0038] Fig. 18 shows the upper end of a support device according to an embodiment of the invention,

[0039] Figs. 19 and 20 show a support device according to an embodiment of the invention in particular for retrofit solutions, and

[0040] Figs. 21 to 23 show a support device according to another embodiment of the invention in particular for retrofit solutions.

[0041] Detailed description of embodiments of the invention

[0042] The invention concerns a support device 1 for supporting the thigh 30 of a goaltender (goalkeeper) in a kneeling position, in particular in a butterfly position, in ice sports or roller sports. Figures 12, 13A and 13B show a goaltender in the butterfly position.

[0043] The support device 1 is configured to be used with a goaltender’s leg pad 10. Figures 1 to 11 show different views of leg pads 10 according to embodiments of the invention. The figures are simplified and do not show all the details of the leg pad 10, such as different straps needed to attach the leg pad 10 to the leg of the user.

[0044] The leg pad 10 is configured for use in ice sports or roller sports. The leg pad 10 is suitable in particular for ice hockey. However, the leg pad 10 could also be used, for instance, in ringette, rinkball or inline hockey. The leg pad 10 is configured to protect the leg of the goaltender. The lower end of the leg pad 10 is configured to extend below the ankle of the goaltender and the upper end of the leg pad 10 is configured to extend above the knee of the goaltender.

[0045] The leg pad 10 has a front side 10A, rear side 10B, medial side 10C, lateral side 10D, lower end 10E and upper end 10F. The terms above refer to the positions of different parts of the leg pad 10 when the leg pad 10 is worn by a standing goaltender. The rear side 10B thus faces the front of the leg of the goaltender and the front side 10A faces forward from the goaltender. The medial side 10C faces the other leg of the goaltender and the lateral side 10C faces to the side from the goaltender.

[0046] The leg pad 10 is configured to extend at least to the height of the knee of the goaltender. Typically, the leg pads 10 are configured to extend to a certain height above the knee of the goaltender. The lower end 10E of the leg pad 10 is typically configured to cover the front side of the toe of the goaltender’s skate 26.

[0047] The front side 10A of the leg pad 10 is provided with padding that extends from the lower end 10E of the leg pad 10 to the upper end 10F of the leg pad 10. A landing pad (landing gear) 12 is arranged on the medial side 10C of the leg pad 10. The term “landing pad” refers here to padding that is configured to be at the height of the knee of the goaltender. When the goaltender is in the butterfly position, the landing pad 12 is positioned between the ice and the knee of the goaltender. In the embodiments of the figures, the leg pad 10 comprises a lower medial side pad 1 1 that is arranged in the longitudinal direction of the leg pad 10 below the landing pad 12. When the goaltender is in the butterfly position, the lower medial side pad 1 1 is between the ice and the lower leg of the goaltender. The lower medial side pad 11 could be integrated with the landing pad 12. The medial side 10C could thus be provided with a single continuous pad configured to extend from the height of the knee to the height of the lower leg of the goaltender. Instead of a single lower medial side pad 11 arranged below the landing pad 12, the medial side of the leg pad 10 could be provided with two or more pads below the landing pad 12.

[0048] The leg pad 10 comprises a leg channel 17. The leg channel 17 is configured to receive the lower leg of the goaltender. The leg channel 17 extends approximately from the ankle of the goaltender to the upper end of the calf. The leg channel 17 is formed by pads 17A, 17B arranged on two sides of the area that is configured to receive the leg of the goaltender. The rear side of the leg channel 17 may comprise one or more straps 18 for keeping the leg pad 10 in place.

[0049] In the butterfly position, the legs of the goaltender are spread to the sides to block the lower part of the goal. The arms are spread to block and catch shots aimed at upper parts of the goal. The butterfly position can be very challenging and straining for the goaltenders. In the butterfly save position, the joints of the knees and hips of the goaltender are often bent to extreme positions. This causes discomfort and also exposes the goaltender to stress injuries, in particular of the hip. During a single ice hockey game, the goaltender may drop to the knees tens of times. During training, the number of saves and thus the time spent in the butterfly position is even greater.

[0050] Figure 13B shows a goaltender in the butterfly position without the support device according to the invention. As the goaltender drops on the knees, the hip of the goaltender often moves backwards into a low position, leading to a small angle a between the lower leg and the thigh 30, i.e. the shin bone (tibia) and thigh bone (femur). In the example of figure 13B, the angle a is approximately 45 degrees. The small angle between the tibia and femur causes significant stress to the hip of the goaltender. Also the angle p between the thigh 30 and the hip is small. Typically, also the angle A between the ice and the skate 26 is small, causing additional strain to the hip.

[0051] The support device 1 according to the invention is configured to help the goaltender to maintain a specific minimum angle a between the leg 31 and the thigh 30. The support device 1 is configured to cooperate with the goaltender’s leg pad 10. The support device 1 has a lower end 1A and an upper end 1 B. The lower end 1A is configured to be connected to the leg pad 10 and the upper end 1 B is configured to be connected either to a goaltender’s knee guard 20 or to the thigh 30 of the goaltender. As the goaltender drops to a kneeling position, in particular to the butterfly position, the force acting via the support device 1 helps the goaltender to maintain the specific minimum angle a between the leg 31 and the thigh 30. What is a suitable minimum angle a between the leg 31 and the thigh 30 depends on the anatomy and preferences of the goaltender. Preferably, the support device 1 and / or its attachment to the leg pad 10 can be adjusted such that each user can adapt the angle to which the support device 1 supports the thigh 30 according to the needs and preferences of the user.

[0052] The support device 1 is configured such that moving of the goaltender is limited as little as possible. When the goaltender is in a standing position, the support device 1 does not substantially limit the movements of the goaltender. For allowing the goaltender to move freely despite the support device 1 , the lower end of the support device 1 can be attached pivotably to the leg pad 10. The support device 1 can thus turn about an attachment point 19 at least to a certain extent. Optionally, the lower end 1 A of the support device 1 can be further configured to be moveable relative to the leg pad 10 within predetermined limits. The attachment point 19 can thus be either fixed or moveable. Alternatively, the support device 1 can be provided with a pivot point 29, about which a portion of the support device 1 can pivot.

[0053] In the embodiments of the figures, the upper end 1 B of the support device 1 is provided with a curved support portion 3. The curved support portion 3 is configured to contact the back and sides of the goaltender’s thigh 30. The curved support portion 3 can extend, for instance, over an angle of 120-180 degrees to provide sufficient support for the thigh 30. The upper end 1 B of the support device 1 can be provided with one or more straps 27 for attaching the curved support portion 3 to the thigh 30 of the goaltender, as shown in figure 18. Alternatively, the support device 1 could be provided with a counterpart that can be attached to the curved support portion 3 to reliably attach the support device 1 to the thigh 30 of the goaltender.

[0054] The support device 1 further comprises an arm 2. The upper end of the arm 2 is connected to the curved support portion 3. The support portion 3 and the arm 2 can be integrated into a one-piece part. However, the support portion 3 could also be detachably attached to the arm 2. The lower end of the arm 2 is configured to be connected to the leg pad 10 or to attachment means 4 of the support device 1. In the embodiments of the figures, the arm 2 is straight, but it could also have any other suitable shape.

[0055] The angle a to which the support device 1 should guide the thigh 30 of the goaltender depends on the anatomy and preferences of the user, but the angle between the femur and tibia could be, for instance, 60 degrees or more.

[0056] The angle a to which the support device 1 guides the leg 30 of the goaltender depends on the length of the support device 1 or the arm 2, the position to which the lower end 1A of the support device 1 is attached in the leg pad 10 or the position of the pivot point 29 about which the arm 2 pivots, and the area where the upper end of the support device 1 contacts the thigh 30 of the goaltender. While all these could be adjusted, the simplest way to adapt the support device 1 to the needs of different users is the adjustment of the length of the support device 1 , and in particular the length of the arm 2. The support device 1 can be provided in various lengths, but preferably the length of the support device 1 is adjustable. This allows each goaltender to adjust the support action of the support device 1 according to his or her personal needs and preferences. For instance, the length of the arm 2 of the support device 1 could be adjustable telescopically either in steps or in a stepless manner.

[0057] The support device 1 can be attached to the leg pad 10 in many different ways. Preferably, the support device 1 is attached to the leg pad 10 such that the user can easily remove the support device 1 when needed. For instance, a user may want to use the support device 1 only when training and to detach the support device 1 from the leg pad 10 for games. The support device 1 can be provided with attachment means configured for quick-release attachment to the leg pad 10.

[0058] Figures 1 to 4 show a leg pad 10 according to a first embodiment of the invention, figures 5 to 8 show a leg pad 10 according to a second embodiment of the invention, and figures 9 to 11 show a leg pad 10 according to a third embodiment of the invention. In all the embodiments, the support device 1 is similar, but the support device 1 is attached to the leg pad 10 in different ways.

[0059] In the first embodiment, the leg pad 10 is provided with attachment means 13 for the support device 1 in the lower medial side pad 11 . If the leg pad 10 was provided on the medial side 10C with a single pad integrating the landing pad 12 and the lower medial side pad 11 , the attachment means 13 could be arranged in such a pad. The attachment means 13 can be attached to the leg pad 10 in many different ways. For instance, the attachment means 13 could be attached to the leg pad 10 by means of screws or by gluing or sewing or using a combination of different means. The attachment point 19 of the support device 1 allows the arm 2 of the support device 1 to turn about the attachment point 19. Other movement of the lower end of the arm 2 relative to the attachment point 19 is prevented.

[0060] As discussed above, the angle to which the support device 1 supports the thigh 30 of the goaltender depends on the position of the attachment point 19 of the support device 1 in the leg pad 10. It is beneficial to arrange the attachment means 13 such that the attachment point 19 is clearly below the knee of the goaltender in a standing position of the goaltender. Also, it is beneficial to arrange the attachment point 19 relatively far from the front side 10A of the leg pad 10.

[0061] In figure 14A, line A depicts the position of the kneecap of the goaltender in the leg pad 10. Line A is substantially aligned with a center line of the landing pad 12. A typical leg pad 10 is provided with a knee cradle (not shown in the figures) that is configured to contact the knee of the goaltender. Line A is substantially aligned with a center line of the knee cradle.

[0062] In the longitudinal direction of the leg pad 10, the distance between line A and the lower end of the lower medial side pad 11 is D1 . The attachment point 19 of the support device 1 is located at a distance of D2 from line A. The distance D2 between the attachment point 19 and line A is preferably 30-60 percent of the distance D1 between the lower end of the lower medial side pad 11 and line A, i.e. the center line of the knee cradle. If the leg pad 10 was provided with a pad integrating the lower medial side pad 11 and the landing pad 12, the lower end of such an integrated pad would correspond to the lower end of the lower medial side pad 11 of figure 14A. If the leg pad 10 was provided with two or more pads below the landing pad 12, the lower end of the lowermost medial side pad would correspond to the lower end of the lower medial side pad 1 1 of figure 14A.

[0063] Alternatively, a suitable position for the attachment point 19 could be defined relative to the height of the leg pad 10, i.e. the vertical distance between the lower end 10E and the upper end 10F of the leg pad 10. The attachment point 19 of the support device 1 is preferably positioned in the upper third of the lower half of the leg pad 10.

[0064] In the depth direction, i.e. in the direction from the front side 10A to the rear side 10B of the leg pad 10, the attachment point 19 of the support device 1 is preferably positioned rearwards from the leg channel 17. The attachment point 19 can be positioned, for instance, in the rearmost third of the leg pad 10 or even backwards from the leg pad 12 and the lower medial side pad 11 .

[0065] The second embodiment of figures 5 to 8 functions in a similar way as the first embodiment shown in figures 1 to 4. The support device 1 is almost identical to the support device 1 shown in figures 1 to 4. However, the support device 1 is attached to the leg pad 10 in a different manner. In the embodiment of figures 5 to 8, the attachment means for the support device 1 comprise an arched support part 15. The support part 15 extends in the lateral direction of the leg pad 10 at least partly over the leg pad 10. When the leg pad 10 is in use, the support part 15 is behind the leg of the goaltender. The support part 15 has a first end and a second end. The first end is attached to the leg pad 10 at a location that is laterally inwards from the longitudinal center line of the leg pad 10, i.e. towards the other leg of the goaltender. The second end is attached to the leg pad 10 at a location that is laterally outwards from the longitudinal center line of the leg pad 10. In the embodiment of the figures, the first end is attached to the landing pad 12. However, the first end could also be attached to the lower medial side pad 11 or to a pad integrating the landing pad 12 and the lower medial side pad 11 . Alternatively, the first end could be attached to some other part of the leg pad 10. The second end of the support part 15 is attached to the leg pad 10 on the lateral side of the leg pad 10. The landing pad 12, lower medial side pad 11 or other portions of the leg pad 10 can be provided with suitable reinforcement means for allowing firm attachment of the support part 15 to the leg pad 10. The support part 15 can be attached to the leg pad 10 in many different ways, such as by gluing or sewing, by means of screws or using a combination of different means.

[0066] The first end 1A of the support device 1 is pivotably attached to the support part 15. In addition, the support device 1 can be moveable in the longitudinal direction of the support part 15. The attachment point 19 of the support device 1 is thus not fixed, but can move along the support part 15. In the embodiment of figures 5 to 8, the attachment point 19 is positioned rearwards from the leg channel 17. The attachment point 19 is also positioned rearwards from the landing pad 12.

[0067] Also in the third embodiment shown in figures 9 to 11 , the support device 1 functions in a similar way as in the first and second embodiments. However, the support device 1 is attached to the leg pad 10 in a different manner. In the third embodiment, the support device 1 is attached to the landing pad 12. The attachment means 14 for the support device 1 comprise an arm portion 14A extending downwards from the landing pad 12. The support device 1 is attached to the free end of the arm portion 14A. The attachment point 19 of the support device 1 is thus located at the free end of the arm portion 14A. The attachment point 19 is thus at a distance from the landing pad 12. The arm portion 14A positions the attachment point 19 such that the support device 1 can support the thigh 30 of the goaltender in a suitable angle. The arm 2 of the support device 1 can pivot about the attachment point 19, but the position of the lower end of the arm 2 is fixed relative to the attachment point 19.

[0068] The second end 1 B of the support device 1 can be configured to be supported directly against the thigh 30 of the goaltender. However, the second end 1 B can also be configured to be attached to a goaltender’s knee guard 20. Figures 15 to 17 show such a knee guard 20. The knee guard 20 is configured to be worn under the leg pad 10 to provide additional protection. The knee guard 20 is provided with attachment means 16 for attaching the upper end 1 B of the support device 1 to the knee guard 20. The attachment means 16 can be configured for quick-release attachment of the support device 1 .

[0069] In the embodiment of figures 15 to 17, the knee guard 20 comprises a lower portion 21 , a middle portion 22 and an upper portion 23. The middle portion 22 is configured to be arranged against the knee of the goaltender. The lower portion 21 extends downwards from the middle portion 22, and the upper portion 23 extends upwards from the middle portion 22. The lower portion 21 and the upper portion 23 are connected to the middle portion 21 such that the knee guard 20 allows movements of the goaltender. The connection between the lower portion 21 and the middle portion 22 and between the upper portion 23 and the middle portion 22 is thus flexible. The knee guard 20 further comprises straps 32 for attaching the knee guard 20 to the leg of the goaltender. The support device 1 is connected to the upper portion 23. By attaching the support device 1 to the knee guard 20, the upper end 1 B of the support device 1 is kept reliably in the right position against the thigh 30 of the goaltender. The support device 1 could form an integral part of the knee guard 20.

[0070] The functioning of the support device 1 according to the invention is shown in the schematic drawings 14A to 14C. Figure 14C shows the leg pad 10 and the support device 1 as they are positioned when the goaltender is standing. As the lower end 1 A of the support device 1 is pivotably attached to the leg pad 10, in the example of figures 14A to 14C to the landing pad 12, the goaltender can move freely in the standing position. Figure 14B shows the leg pad 10 and the support device 1 when the goaltender is dropping into the butterfly position. In the position of figure 14B, the support device 1 does not prevent moving of the goaltender. In figure 14A, the goaltender has reached the butterfly position. The landing pad 12 and the lower medial side pad 11 are against the ice. The lower end 1 B of the support device 1 is attached to the leg pad 10 and cannot move relative to the leg pad 10. The support device 1 can thus direct via the arm 2 of the support device 1 a supporting force to the thigh 30 of the goaltender, thus helping the goaltender to maintain a suitable angle between the lower leg 31 and the thigh 30. Each of the two leg pads 10 of the goaltender is obviously provided with a similar support device 1 .

[0071] In the butterfly position, the support device 1 helps the goaltender to keep the angle a between the thigh 30 and the leg 31 greater. As a result, also the angle P between the hip and the thigh 30 and the angle A between the skate 26 and the ice 26 are increased.

[0072] Figures 19 and 20 show a further embodiment of the support device 1 according to the invention. The support device 1 of figures 19 and 20 is configured in particular for retrofit solutions, as it can be attached to the leg pad 10 without modifying the leg pad 10. As shown for example in figures 9 to 11 , the landing pad 12 may comprise several parts 12A, 12B, 12C. In the example of figures 9 to 11 , the leg pad 12 comprises three parts 12A, 12B, 12C forming a stack. A first part 12A is configured to face the knee of the goaltender, a third part 12C is configured to face laterally outwards, i.e. in the butterfly position the ice, and a second part 12B is arranged between the first and third parts 12A, 12C. At least the first and second parts 12A, 12B can be detachably attached to each other, for example using hook and loop (Velcro) fasteners.

[0073] The support device 1 of figures 19 and 20 comprises a plate 24 that is configured to be inserted between the first and second parts 12A, 12B of the landing pad 12. The plate 24 can be provided on each side with hook and loop fasteners that are configured to attach the plate 24 to the parts of the landing pad 12. For instance, if the first part 12A of the landing pad 12 is provided with a loop part of a Velcro fastener and the second part 12B is provided with a hook part of the Velcro fastener, the surface of the plate 24 configured to face the first part 12A is provided with a hook part and the surface configured to face the second part 12B of the landing pad 12 is provided with a loop part. The plate 1 can thus be attached to the landing pad 12 without a need to modify the landing pad 12. Instead of being inserted between the first and second parts 12A, 12B of the landing pad 12, the plate 24 could be inserted between the second and third parts 12B, 12C of the landing pad 12. In the embodiment of figures 19 and 20, the support device 1 comprises an arm portion 28 that is configured to extend in the mounted position of the support device 1 towards the lower end 12E of the leg pad 10. The arm 2 of the support device 1 is attached to the other end of the arm portion 28. A pivot point 29 is formed at the end of the arm portion 28. The arm 2 can thus turn relative to the arm portion 28. As the plate 24 is attached non-moveably to the leg pad 10, the arm 2 pivots relative to the leg pad 10. The support device 1 of figures 19 and 20 thus functions in a similar manner as the support device 1 of figures 9 to 11 , but a pivot point 29 for the arm 2 of the support device 1 is located in the support device 1 itself. The support device 1 thus comprises a stationary part and a moveable part that is configured to turn relative to the stationary part. The pivot point 29 for the arm 2 is located similarly as the attachment point 19 in the embodiments of the other figures.

[0074] In the embodiment of figures 19 and 20, the arm portion 28 is attached to a rim 25 bordering two edges of the plate 24.

[0075] A similar hook and loop attachment could also be used in other embodiments of the invention. For instance, in the embodiment of figures 5 to 9, one end of the arched support part 15 could be attached to the landing pad 12 in a similar way as the support device 1 of figures 19 and 20.

[0076] Instead of being attached to the landing pad 12 with hook and loop fasteners, the plate 24 of the support device 1 of figures 19 and 20 could be attached to the landing pad 12 of the leg pad 10 in some other way, for instance by means of screws or by gluing.

[0077] Figures 21 to 23 show another support device 1 that is configured in particular for retrofit solutions. The support device 1 comprises attachment means 4 that allow the support device 1 to be attached to the landing pad 12 of the leg pad 10 without modifying the leg pad 10. In the embodiment of figures 21 to 23, the attachment means 4 of the support device 1 comprise support parts 33 that are configured to encircle the landing pad 12 on upper, lower, medial, lateral and rear sides of the landing pad 12. Some of the support parts 33 can be flexible and / or adjustable to attach the support device 1 firmly to the landing pad 12. It is not necessary to have the support parts 33 on all sides of the landing pad 12, but the support device 1 could comprise for instance a single support part that can be arranged against the lower side of the landing pad 12 and attached to the landing pad 12 with separate or integrated straps.

[0078] In the embodiment of figures 21 to 23, the support device 1 is configured such that it contacts the ice in the butterfly position. This provides an additional support point for the support device 1 and prevents the leg pad 10 from turning backwards about a longitudinal axis of the leg pad 10. The support device 1 comprises a similar arm portion 28 as the support device 1 of figures 19 and 20. The arm 2 of the support device 1 is attached to the end of the arm portion 28. A pivot point 29 is thus formed at the end of the arm portion 28. The support device 1 is configured such that it contacts in the butterfly position the ice at the pivot point 29. Depending on the construction of the pivot between the arm portion 28 and the arm 2, either the arm portion 28 or the arm 2 can contact the ice. The support device 1 is made of a material that can withstand the impacts caused by the support device 1 hitting the ice. The contact point of the support device 1 is rounded to ensure that sliding of the leg pad 10 on the ice is not disturbed.

[0079] Also the embodiments of the other figures could be modified such that the support device 1 or the attachment means 13, 14, 15 of the leg pad 10 contact the ice in the butterfly position to form a support point for the support device 1 . The attachment means 13, 14, 15 can be configured such that they contact the ice for example at the attachment point 19 of the support device 1 .

Claims

Claims:

1. A support device (1 ) for supporting the thigh (30) of a goalkeeper in a kneeling position in ice sports or roller sports, the support device (1 ) having a lower end (1A) and an upper end (1 B), the lower end (1A) of the support device (1 ) being configured to be connected to a goalkeeper’s leg pad (10) and the upper end (1 B) being configured to be connected to a goalkeeper’s knee guard (20) or to the thigh (30) of the goalkeeper, wherein the support device (1 ) is configured such that when in use, a supporting force acting via the support device (1 ) helps the goalkeeper to maintain a specific minimum angle (a) between the leg (31 ) and the thigh (30).

2. The support device (1 ) according to claim 1 , wherein the support device (1 ) comprises an arm (2) having a lower end and an upper end, and a curved support portion (3) arranged at the upper end of the arm (2) and configured to contact the back and sides of the goalkeeper’s thigh (30).

3. The support device (1 ) according to claim 2, wherein the arm (2) is configured to be pivotable and, optionally, moveable relative to the leg pad (10).

4. The support device (1 ) according to any of claims 1 -3, wherein the length of the support device (1 ) is adjustable.

5. The support device (1 ) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the support device (1 ) is provided with attachment means (4) for attaching the support device (1 ) to the leg pad (10).

6. The support device (1 ) according to claim 5, wherein the attachment means (4) comprise a plate (24) that is configured to be inserted between parts (12A, 12B) of a landing pad (12) of the leg pad (10).

7. The support device (1 ) according to claim 6, wherein the plate (24) is provided with hook and loop fasteners for attaching the plate (24) to the parts (12A, 12B) of the landing pad (12).

8. The support device (1 ) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the support device (1 ) is provided with attachment means (4) configuredfor quick-release attachment to the leg pad (10) and / or to the knee guard (20).

9. The support device (1 ) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the support device (1 ) is configured such that it contacts in the butterfly position the ice to form a support point for the support device (1 ).

10. The use of the support device (1 ) according to any of the preceding claims in ice sports or roller sports.

11. A goalkeeper’s leg pad (10) for ice sports or roller sports, the leg pad (10) comprising attachment means (13, 14, 15) for connecting the lower end (1A) of the support device (1 ) according to any of claims 1-9 to the leg pad (10).

12. The goalkeeper’s leg pad (10) according to claim 11 , wherein the attachment means (13, 14, 15) are attached to a landing pad (12) on the medial side of the leg pad (10) and / or to a pad (11 ) arranged in the longitudinal direction of the leg pad (10) below the landing pad (12).

13. The goalkeeper’s leg pad (10) according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the attachment means (13, 14, 15) comprise an arched support part (15) extending in the lateral direction of the leg pad (10) at least partly over the leg pad (10) and being attached to the leg pad (10) at least in two positions.

14. The goalkeeper’s leg pad (10) according to any of claims 11-13, wherein the leg pad (10) is provided with an attachment point (19) for pivotably connecting the support device (1 ) to the leg pad (10), and the attachment point (19) is located from the center line (A) of a knee cradle of the leg pad (10) at a distance (D2) that is 20-60 percent of the distance (D1 ) between the lower end of the lowermost medial side pad (11 ) of the leg pad (10) and said centerline (A) of the knee cradle.

15. The goalkeeper’s leg pad (10) according to any of claims 11-13, wherein the leg pad (10) is provided with an attachment point (19) for pivotably connecting the support device (1 ) to the leg pad (10), and the attachment point (19) for the support device (1 ) is positioned in the upper third of the lower half of the leg pad (10).

16. The goalkeeper’s leg pad (10) according to any of claims 11-15, wherein the leg pad (10) is provided with an attachment point (19) for pivotably connecting the support device (1 ) to the leg pad (10), and the attachment point (19) is positioned rearwards from a leg channel (17) of the leg pad (10).

17. The goalkeeper’s leg pad (10) according to any of claims 11-15, wherein the leg pad is provided with an attachment point (19) for pivotably connecting the support device (1 ) to the leg pad (10), and the attachment point (19) is positioned in the depth direction of the leg pad (10) in the rearmost third of the leg pad (10).

18. The goalkeeper’s leg pad (10) according to any of claims 11-17, wherein the attachment means (13, 14, 15) of the leg pad (10) are configured for quick-release attachment of the support device (1 ).

19. The goalkeeper’s leg pad (10) according to any of claims 11-18, wherein the attachment means (13, 14, 15) of the leg pad (10) are configured such that the attachment means (13, 14, 15) contact in the butterfly position the ice to form a support point for the support device (1 ).

20. The goalkeeper’s leg pad (10) according to any of claims 11-19, wherein the leg pad (10) comprises the support device (1 ) according to any of claims 1-9.21 . The use of the goalkeeper’s leg pad (10) according to any of claims 11- 20 in ice sports or roller sports.

22. A goalkeeper’s knee guard (20) for ice sports or roller sports, the knee guard (20) comprising attachment means (16) for attaching the support device (1 ) according to any of claims 1-9 to the knee guard (20).

23. The goalkeeper’s knee guard (20) according to claim 22, wherein the attachment means (16) of the knee guard (20) are configured for quickrelease attachment of the support device (1 ).

24. The use of the knee guard (20) according to claim 22 or 23 in ice sports or roller sports.

Images