A towing unit for outdoor activities, and a portable towing device comprising the towing unit

Abstract

Herein is disclosed a towing unit (100) for a first person to be pulled by a second person during outdoor activities, the towing unit (100) comprising: - a pull means (105) having a support surface (109) configured to bear against a body portion of the first person; and - a pole (102) having a first end movably connected to the support surface (109) of the pull means (105), the pole (102) further having a longitudinal axis (L); wherein the towing unit (100) is further configured to permit relative angular movement between the longitudinal axis (L) of the pole (102) and the support surface (109) of the pull means (105). Further, a portable towing device (10) comprising the towing unit (100) and a holder (200) is also disclosed.

Description

[0001] A TOWING UNIT FOR OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, AND A PORTABLE TOWING DEVICE COMPRISING THE TOWING UNIT

[0002] The invention concerns a towing unit for a first person to be pulled by a second person during outdoor activities. More specifically, the towing unit comprises a pull means for bearing against a body portion of the first person, and a pole movably connected to the pull means. The invention further concerns a portable towing device, also referred to as a transportation device herein, comprising the towing unit. The portable towing device is adapted for various activities, such as outdoor activities, for example sports activities, where one person needs to be pulled by another.

[0003] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0004] Field of the invention

[0005] The invention relates to portable transportation devices during activities where there is a need for one person to be pulled by another person. The invention is not only intended for children but also for adults, such as for example people with physical disabilities. The invention has multiple uses in the summer and winter. Examples of winter activities include cross-country skiing, snowboarding, slalom skiing, and ice skating. The invention can also be used in the summer for the use of roller skis or rollerblades. This list of uses is not exhaustive.

[0006] Description of prior art

[0007] When hiking with children, it is important to start the hike easily without carrying too much equipment. Furthermore, it is important to keep the "wheels turning" once the hike has started in order to maintain interest and morale. If there are longer pauses and fiddling with equipment, the child may lose interest and motivation to continue the activity.

[0008] The length of an activity is influenced by the age, technique and physical capacity of those performing the activity. To complete a longer hike together with a child, there may be aneed for a break or some form of relief. Cross-country skiing, for example, is a winter activity both adults and children often engage in together. A cross-country trail consists of rough terrain with a combination of steep and flat terrain. To complete a longer hike, cooperation between participants is required. If one wishes to continue the hike without stopping to take a physical break, an alternative may be to pull the person who needs a break.

[0009] When teaching children to snowboard, one often starts by training on a slope near one’s home without access to a ski lift. The slopes are often short with a low gradient.

[0010] Snowboarding and cross-country skiing can also serve as transportation to the kindergarten in the winter. Today, creative solutions to pull another person are used on hikes, and several products are available on the market.

[0011] In cross-country skiing, creative solutions are often used when someone needs to be pulled. Some examples include the pulling technique using one or two skiing poles. This technique means that one or both arms of both the puller and the pulled are occupied, which affects progress. The person being pulled can hold the pole with one or two hands and / or have the pole’s basket between the legs and use it as a towing anchor. The pole’s basket is not intended for such a function, and it is neither strong enough nor big enough to provide adequate support for the back of the thighs and buttocks. This requires the person being pulled, to use energy to hold on to the pole.

[0012] Patent publication US 20080111365 A1 discloses a ski pole with a detachable bar, which allows an experienced skier to either tow uphill or to control the speed of inexperienced skiers.

[0013] Another prior art solution is to provide some sort of belt, straps, band, or harness to be worn by the person to be pulled or supported, and with a towline or reins for the other person to hold on to or be connected to. Various examples can be found, for example in patent publications US4509921, US7384382, and US5074795, or in products such as the SWIX® product “Harness for kids”. The latter can be used for cross-country skiing, alpine skiing and snowboarding. When using the “Harness for kids” the mounting device for the person being pulled in cross-country skiing is attached to a harness or belt. Alternatively, the person being pulled can hold on to the ropes.One disadvantage of prior art solutions is that, if the product / device is fastened to both persons, the person being pulled can be dragged along the ground if they fall. Another disadvantage is that for products having long reins or leashes, there is a possibility of the leash getting tangled.

[0014] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0015] One object of the present invention is to overcome at least one of the problems of prior art by being easier to transport as it is portable, applicable to several different activities, is easy to operate during the activity without longer stops to prepare equipment, provides increased balance, and is safe in use by minimizing the risk of being dragged along the ground. Furthermore, the invention can be used as a training device for alpine and crosscountry skiing. The object of the invention is achieved by the subject matter in the appended claims.

[0016] In a first aspect, the invention concerns a towing unit for a first person to be pulled by a second person during outdoor activities, the towing unit comprising:

[0017] - a pull means having a support surface configured to bear against a body portion of the first person; and

[0018] - a pole having a first end movably connected to the support surface of the pull means, the pole further having a longitudinal axis;

[0019] wherein the towing unit is further configured to permit relative angular movement between the longitudinal axis of the pole and the support surface of the pull means.

[0020] The one end, i.e. the first end, of the pole which is connected to the pull means, may be connected approximately to the center of the pull means by a mounting unit. A fastening means may be arranged at a second end of the pole.

[0021] The pole can be movably connected to the pull means by the mounting unit.

[0022] The towing unit may further comprise an angle-locking mechanism for restricting the angular movement.The angle-locking mechanism may comprise a limiting device configured to provide a restricted range of motion in all directions of the pull means relative to the pole, where the deviation is from 2 or 5 to 10, 15 or 20 degrees.

[0023] In embodiments, the mounting unit can comprise the angle-locking mechanism.

[0024] The angle-locking mechanism can be configured to lock the pole relative to the pull means at a desired angle or within a desired angle range. Furthermore, the angle-locking mechanism can be configured to stepwise or smoothly move the pole with respect to the pull means and / or within a plane or in all directions. Optionally the angle-locking mechanism can hold the pole and the pull means locked at at least one desired angle. Optionally, the angle-locking mechanism may hold the pole and the pull means locked at one at a time, of at least two desired angles. The angle of the pole relative to the pull means can be from 0 to 180 degrees within a plane or in all directions.

[0025] In addition, or alternatively, the angle-locking mechanism can be configured to move the pole relative to the pull means freely between a first angle and a second angle, where the first angle is different from the second angle and the first and second angles are between 0 and 180 degrees.

[0026] The movement of the pole relative to the pull means can be within a plane or in all directions.

[0027] The angle-locking mechanism can comprise a locking means, which can be but is not limited to e.g. a button or other suitable locking and / or limiting units and is configured for adjusting to the at least one desired angle of e.g. at least two possible angles and for locking the pole with respect to the pull means at the desired angle.

[0028] The pole can be an adjustable pole, i.e. an extendable pole wherein the length of the adjustable pole can be stepwise or smoothly regulated to a desired length.

[0029] The pull means may be configured to provide support to the buttocks and / or thighs of a person to be pulled.The pull means can be a pull disc having a round and slightly concave or flat shape. The pull means can have other forms I shapes, sizes, colors, and / or functions.

[0030] The towing unit may further comprise a mounting device for releasably connecting the pull means and the pole.

[0031] The mounting unit can comprise the mounting device for the pull means and pole, where the mounting device can be configured for easy detachment and attachment of the pull means from the pole, so that pull means with different forms I shapes, sizes, colors, and / or functions can be used.

[0032] The towing unit may further comprise a fastening means arranged on a second end of the pole for fastening the towing unit to a holder.

[0033] Herein is also disclosed a holder configured for use during various activities, such as for example pulling of a person or another object. The holder comprises: at least one mounting strap configured for attachment to a first object which can be at least one of: a belt, a harness, a backpack, a person and / or the like; and a retractable cord configured to automatically retract within its container when not subjected to a physical load. An outer end of the retractable cord is supplied with a fastening device configured for attachment and detachment to and from a second object, such as for example a towing unit for various activities or the like.

[0034] The holder can further comprise a fastening device configured for attachment of said second object to the holder when not in use.

[0035] The holder can further comprise at least one pocket configured for storing said at least one mounting strap and / or fastening device.

[0036] In a second aspect, the invention concerns a portable towing device comprising the towing unit according to the first aspect, further comprising a holder for being carried by the second person.

[0037] The portable towing device is herein also referred to as a transportation device configured for use during various activities, as mentioned hereinabove. The transportation devicecomprises the towing unit according to the present invention and the holder according to the present invention. The fastening means arranged on one end of the pole of the towing unit is, in a position of use, attached to the fastening device at the outer end of the retractable cord of the holder.

[0038] The holder may comprise:

[0039] - at least one mounting strap configured for attachment to a belt, a harness, a backpack, or a piece of clothing to be worn by the second person;

[0040] - a retractable cord arranged to be connectible to the fastening means of the towing unit; and

[0041] - a container for housing the retractable cord when not subjected to a physical load.

[0042] The fastening device, arranged on the holder, may be configured to fasten the towing unit to the holder when not in use.

[0043] By using the angle-locking mechanism mounted to the pulling disc, the device may be applicable to various activities. For example, when snowboarding, the pulling disc may be tilted to create a straight line between the snowboard and the adjustable cord, preventing the snowboard from being pushed to turn. When used during cross-country skiing, the pull disc may preferably be tilted at a different angle to minimize resistance for the person pulling.

[0044] The invention is easy to operate during the activity because one can easily switch between being pulled or walking independently without longer stops to prepare the equipment. When the device is not in use, it can be made smaller and pulled closer to the body through adjusting the length of the adjustable pole. Furthermore, using the anglelocking mechanism that tilts the pull disc allows the pull disc to take up less space and sit closer to the body. The retractable cord automatically retracts the cord and the pull disc when not subjected to a physical load. The towing unit can easily be released, the pole adjusted to the desired length, and the angle-locking mechanism locks the pull disc to the desired angle when in use. During activity, the invention’s features make it easy to release and attach the towing unit to the holder without having to remove gloves, skiing poles or move the holder from the back.The invention provides increased balance during activity. Jerky movements can cause the person being pulled to lose balance. The adjustable pole allows the person being pulled to hold on to the pole to maintain or regain balance.

[0045] The design of the pull disc makes the invention safer in the event of a fall. The pull disc with its rounded and slightly concave shape minimizes the possibility of it getting caught in the clothes or legs during a fall. The pull disc is not fastened to the person being pulled, and the invention minimizes the possibility of being dragged along the ground after a fall. The retractable cord ensures that the pull disc is pulled away from the person being pulled. Therefore, the invention gives the person being pulled control to release himself I herself when desired, for example, if the speed becomes too high or when losing balance.

[0046] The invention can be used for training before the child is ready to use a ski lift. This is because the invention’s design and use are similar in a way to a button lift on a ski slope, which makes the transition from using the invention to using a button lift much easier. As mentioned earlier, the initial phase in alpine skiing often takes place on a slope near home without access to a lift. It is both cumbersome for the adults to carry or push the children up the slope, and it would not train them in how to use a ski slope lift. Using the invention can provide the necessary training before moving on to master lifts in the ski slope.

[0047] For athletes being trained in cross-country skiing with their own coach, a training session can include extra resistance by adding heavier weight resistance. This can be done by having the athlete pull another person, for example the coach. When using prior art solutions, typically one or both arms of the person being pulled are used to hold on to the device or person pulling them. One disadvantage of this is that during the training session, the coach may need to film the athlete for later analysis of the athlete’s technique while simultaneously being pulled. Since there is no need to hold on to the invention, it allows the coach to film more steadily and better focus on coaching during the training session.

[0048] More specifically, the invention is a portable towing device comprising a towing unit and a holder. The towing unit is connected to the holder and can move between an unfolded and a folded position.The towing unit has multiple adjustment possibilities. The towing unit comprises an adjustable pole, a pull disc and an angle-locking mechanism that can tilt the pull disc and lock it in a desired angle with respect to a locking means, e.g. a button, of the adjustable pole and / or within a plane or in all directions.

[0049] The towing unit is attached to the holder that comprises a retractable cord which automatically retracts when the towing unit is not subjected to a physical load. The holder comprises mounting straps that are configured to attach the holder to a belt, backpack, harness or similar.

[0050] During the activity, the invention will make it easy to operate for the person pulling, without unnecessary interruption of the activity when there is a need to loosen or fasten the towing unit from the holder to pull another person.

[0051] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0052] In the following, the invention will be illustrated and explained by way of examples.

[0053] The accompanying drawings are described in detail below, where:

[0054] Fig. 1 shows a young child being pulled by an adult, by means of a portable towing device, during cross-country skiing activity;

[0055] Fig. 2 shows a young child being pulled by an adult, by means of a portable towing device, during snowboard activity;

[0056] Fig. 3 shows a towing unit;

[0057] Fig. 4 shows details of the towing unit of Fig. 3;

[0058] Figs. 5-6 illustrate two different extension mechanisms of a pole of the towing unit;

[0059] Figs.7A-7F show different embodiments of connections between a pole and a pull means of the towing unit;

[0060] Figs. 8A-8B show pull means of different shapes;

[0061] Fig. 9 shows details of a towing unit;Fig. 10 shows an alternative foldable pull means;

[0062] Fig. 11 shows a holder;

[0063] Figs. 12-17 show details of the holder of Fig. 11;

[0064] Fig. 18 shows an embodiment of a portable towing device when not in use where the towing unit is attached to the holder;

[0065] Figs. 19-20 show the portable towing device attached to a harness and a belt,

[0066] respectively;

[0067] Figs. 21 A-21 B show an alternative holder of a portable towing device; and

[0068] Fig. 22 shows a further alternative holder of a portable towing device.

[0069] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0070] The following description, examples, and embodiments allows the skilled person to gain a more thorough understanding of the invention. The examples used are intended merely to facilitate an understanding of how the invention may be used and to enable a skilled worker to manufacture the device based on the following description. Therefore, the specific details described in the context of the various embodiments with reference to the attached illustrations are not intended to be construed as limitations, only examples. Rather, the scope of the invention is defined in the appended claims. Any position indications refer to the position shown in the Figures. In the Figures, same or corresponding elements are indicated with the same reference number. It must be understood that the Figures are principle sketches only. Relative proportions between elements in the Figures may be distorted.

[0071] Reference is first made to Figures 1 and 2 which illustrate one example of a portable towing device 10 in use with cross-country skiing and snowboard, respectively. In Figures 1 and 2, a first person A is being pulled by a second person B by means of the portable towing device 10. The portable towing device 10 is shown comprising a towing unit 100 to be worn by or connected to the first person A, and a holder 200 to be worn by or connected to the second person B.The towing unit 100 is shown comprising a pole 102 and a pull means 105 having a support surface 109 configured to bear against a body portion of the first person A. It must be understood that in the embodiments of Figures 1 and 2, the pole 102 is arranged between the legs of person A, so that the pull means 105, also referred to as a pull disc 105 or just disc 105, bears against the thighs and / or buttocks of the first person A. The pole 102 has a longitudinal axis, L (see Fig. 3), and the towing unit 100 is configured to permit relative angular movement between the longitudinal axis, L, and the support surface 109 of the pull means 105. In the embodiment of Figures 1 and 2, the towing unit 100 is further provided with an angle-locking mechanism 103 for restricting said angular movement.

[0072] The holder 200 is in Figure 1 shown arranged on a harness worn by the second person B, and in Figure 2 the holder 200 is arranged on a belt worn by the second person B. The holder 200 is arranged to store or house a cord 207, preferably a retractable cord 207, for being retracted into the holder 200 when not in use. The cord 207 is arranged to be connected to the pole 102 of the towing unit 100. The holder 200 is further provided with a first set of mounting straps 201 , 202 for attaching the holder 200 to the second person B, typically at the hip region.

[0073] Further indicated in Figures 1 and 2, is a fastening device 205 intended to fasten the towing unit 100 to the holder 200 when the towing unit 100 is not in use, and also indicated is a pocket 206 for storing for example the first set of mounting straps 201 , 202 and / or a second set of mounting straps 203, 204 (Fig. 2) when the portable towing device 10 is not in use.

[0074] One embodiment of the towing unit 100 is illustrated in its entirety in figure 3. The main function of the towing unit 100 is to pull a person and easily adapt to various activities, as well as to be easily folded away when not in use. This is achieved by the movable connection between the pole 102 and the pull means 105 of the towing unit 100, and in particular the angle-locking mechanism 103. The angle-locking mechanism is configured to restrict said movement in different ways, as will be further elaborated on in the following, for adapting the towing unit 100 to different activities as well as for storing the towing unit 100 in or on the holder 200 when the portable towing device 10 is not in use.Referring now to Figure 3, the towing unit 100 may further comprise a fastening means 101 intended to be an attachment point between the towing unit 100 and the holder 200. To achieve this, the fastening means 101 may be attached to a corresponding fastening device 208 (see Fig. 11) on the holder 200 in a suitable manner. The fastening means 101 can for example be, but is not limited to, a paracord, D-ring, carabiner or similar.

[0075] The pole 102 may be an adjustable pole 102 in the sense that it may be extendable as shown in the Figures, by an inner tube and an outer tube arranged in a telescopic relation. One end of the adjustable pole 102, for example the inner tube, is, as shown in Fig. 3, attached to the fastening means 101. The adjustable pole 102 provides the person being pulled something to hold on to for increased balance. The adjustment possibilities allow for different lengths of the towing unit 100, making it both smaller when not in use, and adaptable in length to the user. The adjustable pole 102 may be locked at a desired length, by a locking system as illustrated by the two examples in figures 5 and 6. Figure 5 shows the adjustable pole 102 with a telescoping function with a clutch lock which can be loosened and locked by turning the pole 102. The adjustment is done by first turning, extending the pole 102, and then turning again in the opposite direction, as illustrated by the arrows on Figure 5, to lock the pole 102 in position. To make the adjustable pole 102 shorter, the pole 102 is turned and pushed in, then turned in the opposite direction to lock. Figure 6 shows the adjustable pole 102 with a telescoping function comprising a telescopic tube locking mechanism. The locking mechanism in this embodiment is a spring-loaded push-button locking pin arranged on the inner tube configured to engage corresponding openings in the outer tube to lock the adjustable pole 102 in predetermined positions. The spring-loaded push-button locking pins are released by pressing the pins into the holes, lengthening the adjustable pole 102 to the next hole, which is higher up on the pole, to lock off. To make the adjustable pole 102 shorter, the spring-loaded locking pins are pressed together, and the pole is pushed down again to the predetermined position, to lock off.

[0076] The angle-locking mechanism 103 is arranged at the movable connection between the pole 102 and the pull means 105 as illustrated on Figure 3. The angle-locking mechanism 103 is here shown attached to the adjustable pole 102. The angle-locking mechanism 103 can in this embodiment tilt the pull disc 105 at least two different angles with respect to the adjustable pole 102.Various embodiments of the movable connection between the pole 102 and the pull means 105 by means of the angle-locking mechanism 103 are shown in Figures 7A-7F. The movement range of the pull means 105 relative to the pole 102, within a plane or in all directions, can be from 0 to 180 degrees as shown in figure 7A. In this embodiment the angle-locking mechanism 103 is shown having five different positions with a step of about 45 degrees. The angle-locking mechanism 103 can in other embodiments restrict the locking positions to, for example, two or three desired angles, as shown in Fig. 7B.

[0077] The angle-locking mechanism 103 may further comprise a locking means, such as a button, 104 which locks the pull disc 105 to the desired angle to keep the towing unit 100 stable during use.

[0078] Examples of use are shown: on Figure 18 where the angle between the plane of the pull disc 105 and the axis of the adjustable pole 102 is 0 degrees when the device is not in use; on Figure 1, where the angle is 90 degrees during use in cross-country skiing; and on Figure 2, where the angle is 45 degrees during use on a snowboard. The angle-locking mechanism 103 and the locking means 104, such as the button, are preferably designed to include the possibility for the pull disc 105 to be loose and not locked in any angle so the pull disc 105 can turn in any direction, as illustrated in Fig. 7C. Furthermore, it can also be possible for the angle-locking mechanism 103 to lock and move the pole 102 relative to the pull means 105 within a plane and freely between two different angles, such as in the embodiment shown on figure 7B. An example of this is that the pole 102 can, within the flat plane, move relative to the pull means 105 freely between 0-90 degrees or between 90-180, or between 0-180 degrees, or yet another example between 45 to 75 degrees. Other suitable angle ranges can also be possible. The effect of such free movement within a restricted range, is to provide a more comfortable ride and prevent the leg(s) of the first person A from being pinched between the pole 102 and the pull means 105 in sharp turns or swings.

[0079] In an embodiment where the angle-locking mechanism 103 can release the pole 102 to move freely in all directions relative to the pull means 105, such as shown in Fig. 7C, it may be preferable to have the pull means 105 movable relative to the pole 102 in all directions without any major deviations in degrees. The angle-locking mechanism 103 can comprise a limiting device 108, indicated in Fig. 7F, which can be but is not limited to a knuckle means 108. The limiting device, such as the knuckle means 108, is configured togive or provide a restricted or limited range of motion in all directions of the pull means 105 relative to the pole 102. The deviation in degrees can be but is not limited to e.g. from 2 or 5 to 10, 15 or 20 degrees.

[0080] Figure 7D illustrates another embodiment the angle-locking mechanism 103 in the form of an extension to the pole 102. This arrangement allows relative angular movement between the pole 102 and the pull means 105 to take place at a distance from the pull means 105. The angle-locking mechanism 103 thereby provides more space for the legs of the first person, A, to ensure that the legs do not get pinched between the pole 102 and the pull disc 105 when the angle-locking mechanism 103 is used in different angles. This can for example be as shown in figure 2 when the person being pulled is on a snowboard and the angle-locking mechanism 103 is in 45 degrees. It may also be conceived that the towing unit 100 may comprise two angle-locking mechanisms 103, whereof one allows space for the legs between the pole 102 and the pull disc 105, and a second one is provided closer to the pull disc 105 so the pull disc 105 sits close to the holder 200 when the towing unit 100 is not in use.

[0081] In Figure 7E, the angle-locking mechanism 103 may be made of a flexible material such as plastic, rubber, or silicone, but not limited thereto. The angle-locking mechanism 103 may be arranged between the pull disc 105 and the pole 102. To have more support the angle-locking mechanism 103 can be reinforced with material inside the flexible material, so that it can be shaped / bent and keep the position. The reinforcement may be made of steel or other hard and flexible material. With this option it is possible that the anglelocking mechanism 103 is either close to the pull disc 105 or higher up to give space for the legs of the first person, A, between the pole 102 and the pull disc 105.

[0082] The angle-locking mechanism 103 is preferably arranged on the pull means 105, or disc 105, at a position selected to provide substantially balanced support of the disc 105 in use. In this context, “balanced” is to be understood as the disc 105 being supported in a manner that reduces tilting or uneven loading during use. The position may be offset from a geometric center and adapted to the shape of the disc 105. The angle-locking mechanism 103 is in one embodiment mounted in the middle of the pull disc 105. The pull disc 105 is arranged to support the back of the thighs and buttocks of the person being pulled. The pull disc 105 can be made of plastic, wood, or other hard materials which canhave low thermal conduction. The pull disc 105 can have a round and flat or slightly concave shape, where the highest point of the concave shape in a preferred embodiment is attached to the angle-locking mechanism 103. The round flat or concave shape will prevent clothing or other items from getting stuck during a fall. The pull disc 105 comes in various sizes and shapes for different users or for those who wish to change color or design. Different disc 105 shapes are illustrated in Figures 8A and 8B.

[0083] Referring now to Figure 10 which illustrates an example of an alternative way to make the pull disc 105 smaller, where it is folded in two parts and encloses the adjustable pole 102. This is achieved by making the pull disc 105 foldable by means of for example a split 110, so that it can be folded in half along a center line. In this embodiment, the pull disc 105 is further provided with a mounting device 106 for keeping the foldable disc 105 in an open position, as shown in the upper left part of Figure 10. When the pull disc 105 is in an unfolded position the pull disc 105 is turned and locked so the split position is not in line with the mounting device 106 for the pull disc 105. To fold the pulling device 105, the pulling disc 105 is turned relative to the mounting device 106 to align the mounting device 106 and the split 110, as shown in the upper right part of Figure 10. The angle-locking mechanism 103 and the locking means 104, e.g. the button 104, can tilt the pull disc 105 into 0- or 180-degree angle so the pull disc 105 can enclose the adjustable pole 102. Yet another embodiment of the present invention may be that the pull disc 105 can be designed and made in such a way that it can be folded in and out like an umbrella. In a first embodiment thereof, the pull disc 105 can be made from a flexible material such as silicone or a soft plastic. This will allow the pull disc 105 to bend and flex easily, making it simple to manipulate and use in the desired application. The flexibility of the material ensures that the pull disc 105 can be easily stored or transported without taking up much space, as it also can be folded to its application form before use. In a second embodiment thereof, the pull disc 105 can be constructed from several elements that can be rigid and that may be connected in a way that allows them to fold in and out, similar to the mechanism of an umbrella. Each segment can be hinged or linked to its neighboring segments, enabling the entire disc 105 to expand into a circular (hemispherical) shape when in use, and collapse into a compact form for storage. This design provides a sturdy and reliable structure while still offering the convenience of easy folding and unfolding.The mounting device 106 for the pull disc 105 is preferably attached to the back of the pull disc 105. It must be understood that the mounting device 106 may be provided in combination with any and all of the herein disclosed embodiments of the towing unit 100. The mounting device 106 may hold the angle-locking mechanism 103 and the pull disc 105 in place, provide extra support and durability to the pull disc 105, and make the pull disc 105 easy to change. The mounting device 106 for the pull disc 105 can come in various sizes and shapes, not only as shown for example in figure 10, where its function is to lock and provide support to the pull disc 105 when it is unfolded. The angle-locking mechanism 103, the pole 102, the pull disc 105 and the mounting device 106 can be attached together with the help of mounting means 107. The mounting means 107 can, as illustrated for example in Figure 9, be a locking pin, but the mounting means 107 can alternatively be, but not be limited to, one or several locking pins, bolts, screws with a nut, spring pins or similar.

[0084] On Figure 11 , one complete embodiment of the holder 200 is shown. The holder 200 is, as explained above, for use by the second person, B, who is pulling the first person, A. The holder 200 can be attached to different equipment, such as a belt, harness, backpack, etc., as shown in figures 19 and 20.

[0085] Details of the holder 200 are shown in Figures 11 through 22, some of which are referred to in the following.

[0086] The first set of mounting straps 201 , 202 are intended to attach the holder 200 to attachment points on the hips of a person, as often seen on a harness as shown in figure 19. The holder 200 may further be provided with mounting means 210, 211 for the first set of mounting straps 201 , 202. Said mounting means 210, 211 can for example be, but is not limited to, a carabiner, clips, snap hook, bolt snap or similar.

[0087] The second set of mounting straps 203, 204 are intended to attach the holder 200 to the middle of the back of the second person, B, when it is attached to a backpack, belt, etc. as shown in figure 20. Furthermore, the second set of mounting straps 203, 204 can be used to give extra support in the middle of the harness when using the first set of mounting straps 201, 202. The holder 200 may further be provided with mounting means 212, 213 for the second set of mounting straps 203, 204. Said mounting means 212, 213 can for example be, but is not limited to, a buckle, snap hook or similar.The fastening device 205 is intended to fasten the towing unit 100 to the holder 200 when not in use, as shown in figure 14 and 18. The mounting means 214 of the fastening device 205 can for example be, but is not limited to, a buckle, clip, snap hook or similar.

[0088] At least one pocket 206 is intended to store the fastening devices 205 and / or straps 201, 202, 203, 204 of the holder 200 that are configured for harness, belt, backpack, etc. when not in use.

[0089] The retractable cord 207 consists of a spool with a retractable cord / cable or similar that automatically retracts when not subjected to a physical load. The retractable cord 207 is stored in a container 209. The container 209 is preferably kept inside the holder 200 as shown in figure 16.

[0090] The fastening device 208 at the outer end of the retractable cord 207 of the holder 200 is configured to be attached to the fastening means 101 of the towing unit 100. Its purpose is to attach the towing unit 100 to the holder 200. The fastening device 208 can for example be, but is not limited to, a carabiner, snap hook or similar.

[0091] Figure 18 shows the portable towing device 10, where the towing unit 100 is attached to the holder 200.

[0092] Figures 21 A, 21 B, and 22 show another embodiment of the holder 200 of the portable towing device 10. This holder 200 is compatible with products that are already in the marked, such as prior art solution where the first person, A, wears a hip belt or similar, and which comes with a pocket that is attached to the hip belt. The hip belt typically includes attachments on each side, and the pocket houses ropes for use when pulling the first person, A. In this embodiment of the portable towing device 10, instead of the first person, A, wearing the prior art hip belt and towing system, the second person B, wears it and it forms part of the holder 200.

[0093] In this embodiment the holder 200 is thus adapted for use with a rope which is not retractable. As shown in Figures 21 A and 21 B, the holder 200 is provided with a flat plate 215 made of plastic or other hard material having some flexibility. The plate 215 can be attached on the side of the belt or in the middle of the pocket. This is achieved by usingthe first set of mounting straps 201, 202 or by using the second set of mounting straps 203, 204 around the hip belt as shown in Figure 22. The rope is then attached to the fastening means 101 on the towing unit 100. The container 209 is mounted on the plate, and its purpose is to work as a rope drum. This gives the opportunity to collect the rope from the prior art towing device around the drum by hand. This prevent ropes from being in the way when the towing device (100) is not in use. The fastening device 205 is intended to fasten the towing unit 100 to the holder 200 when not in use.

[0094] The following clauses are included as part of the disclosure:

[0095] Clauses

[0096] 1. A towing unit (100) configured for use during various activities, the towing unit (100) comprising a pole (102), a pull means (105), a mounting unit (103, 106, 107) and a fastening means (101), wherein one end of the pole (102) is connected approximately to the center of the pull means (105) by the mounting unit (103, 106, 107), and the fastening means (101) is arranged at the other end of the pole (102), wherein the pole (102) is movably connected to the pull means (105) by the mounting unit (103, 106, 107), and the mounting unit (103, 106, 107) comprises an angle-locking mechanism (103).

[0097] 2. The towing unit (100) according to clause 1, wherein the angle-locking mechanism (103) is configured to i) stepwise or smoothly move the pole (102) with respect to the pull means (105) and optionally hold the pole (102) and the pull means (105) locked at at least one desired angle, the angle of the pole (102) relative to the pull means (105) being from 0 to 180 degrees, or ii) move the pole (102) relative to the pull means (105) freely between a first angle and a second angle, where the first angle is different from the second angle and the first and second angles are between 0 and 180 degrees.

[0098] 3. The towing unit (100) according to clause 1 or clause 2, wherein the movement of the pole (102) relative to the pull means (105) is within a plane or in all directions.

[0099] 4. The towing unit (100) according to any one of clauses 1-3, wherein angle-locking mechanism (103) comprises a locking means (104) configured for adjusting to the at least one desired angle of at least two possible angles and locking the pole (102) with respect to the pull means (105) at the desired angle.The towing unit (100) according to any one of clauses 1-4, wherein the pole (102) is an adjustable pole (102), wherein the length of the adjustable pole (102) is regulated to a desired length stepwise or smoothly.

[0100] The towing unit (100) according to any one of clauses 1-5, wherein the pull means (105) is configured to provide support to the buttocks and / or thighs of a person to be pulled.

[0101] The towing unit (100) according to any one of clauses 1-6, wherein the pull means (105) is a pull disc (105) having a round and slightly concave or flat shape.

[0102] The towing unit (100) according to any one of clauses 1-7, wherein the mounting unit (103, 106, 107) comprises a mounting device (106) for the pull means (105) and the pole (102), where the mounting device (106) is configured for easy detachment and attachment (107) of the pull means (105) from the pole (102), so that pull means (105) with different forms I shapes, sizes, colors, and / or functions can be used.

[0103] The towing unit (100) according to any one of clauses 1-8, further comprising a holder (200) comprising: at least one mounting strap (201, 202, 203, 204) configured for attachment to a first object being at least one of: a belt, a harness, a backpack, a person and / or the like; and a retractable cord (207) configured to automatically retract within a container (209) when not subjected to a physical load, where an outer end of the retractable cord (207) is supplied with a fastening device (208) configured for attachment and detachment to and from a second object, such as for example a towing unit (100) for various activities.

[0104] The towing unit (100) according to clause 9, wherein the holder (200) further comprises a fastening device (205) configured for attachment of the second object (100) to the holder (200) when not in use.

[0105] The towing unit (100) according to clause 9 or 10, wherein the holder (200) further comprises at least one pocket (206) configured for storing said at least one mounting strap (201, 202, 203, 204) and / or a / the fastening device (205).

[0106] The towing unit (100) according to any one of clauses 1-11, wherein the fastening means (101) arranged on one end of the pole (102) of the towing unit (100) isattached to the fastening device (208) at the outer end of the retractable cord (207) of the holder (200).

[0107] The towing unit (100) according to clause 12, wherein the fastening device (205), arranged on the holder (200), is configured to fasten the towing unit (100) to the holder (200) when not in use.

[0108] The towing unit (100) according to any one of clauses 1-13, wherein the anglelocking mechanism (103) further comprises a limiting device (108) configured to provide a restricted range of motion in all directions of the pull means (105) relative to the pole (102), where the deviation is from 2 or 5 to 10, 15 or 20 degrees.

[0109] A towing unit (100) configured for use during various activities, the towing unit (100) comprising a pole (102), a pull means (105), a mounting unit (103, 106, 107) and a fastening means (101), wherein one end of the pole (102) is connected approximately to the center of the pull means (105) by the mounting unit (103, 106, 107), and the fastening means (101) is arranged at the other end of the pole (102).

[0110] The towing unit (100) according to clause 15, wherein the pole (102) is movably connected to the pull means (105) by the mounting unit (103, 106, 107).

[0111] The towing unit (100) according to clause 16, wherein the mounting unit (103, 106, 107) comprises an angle-locking mechanism (103) configured to stepwise or smoothly move the pole (102) with respect to the pull means (105) and optionally hold the pole (102) and the pull means (105) locked at at least two desired angles, the angle being from 0-90 degrees on each side of the pole (102) with respect to the pull means (105).

[0112] The towing unit (100) according to clause 17, wherein angle-locking mechanism (103) comprises a button (104) configured for adjusting to a desired angle of said at least two angles and locking the pole (102) with respect to the pull means (105) at the desired angle.

[0113] The towing unit (100) according to any one of clauses 15-18, wherein the pole (102) is an adjustable pole (102), wherein the length of the adjustable pole (102) is regulated to a desired length stepwise or smoothly.The towing unit (100) according to any one of clauses 15-19, wherein the pull means (105) is configured to provide support to the buttocks and / or thighs of a person to be pulled.

[0114] The towing unit (100) according to any one of clauses 15-20, wherein the pull means (105) is a pull disc (105) having a round and slightly concave or flat shape.

[0115] The towing unit (100) according to any one of clauses 15-21, wherein the mounting unit (103, 106, 107) comprises a mounting device (106) for the pull means (105) and the pole (102), where the mounting device (106) is configured for easy detachment and attachment (107) of the pull means (105) from the pole (102), so that pull means (105) with different forms I shapes, sizes, colors, and / or functions can be used.

[0116] A holder (200) configured for use during various activities, such as for example pulling of a person or another object, the holder (200) comprising: at least one mounting strap (201 , 202, 203, 204) configured for attachment to a first object being at least one of: a belt, a harness, a backpack, a person and / or the like; and a retractable cord (207) configured to automatically retract within its container (209) when not subjected to a physical load, where an outer end of the retractable cord (207) is supplied with a fastening device (208) configured for attachment and detachment to and from a second object, such as for example a towing unit (100) for various activities.

[0117] The holder (200) according to clause 23, wherein the holder (200) further comprises a fastening device (205) configured for attachment of the second object (100) to the holder (200) when not in use.

[0118] The holder (200) according to clause 23 or 24, wherein the holder further comprises at least one pocket (206) configured for storing said at least one mounting strap (201, 202, 203, 204) and / or a / the fastening device (205).

[0119] A transportation device configured for use during various activities, wherein the transportation device comprises the towing unit (100) according to any one of clauses 15-22 and the holder (200) according to any one of clauses 23-25, where the fastening means (101) arranged on one end of the pole (102) of the towing unit(100) is attached to the fastening device (208) at the outer end of the retractable cord (207) of the holder (200).

[0120] 27. The transportation device according to clause 26, wherein the fastening device (205), arranged on the holder (200), is configured to fasten the towing unit (100) to the holder (200) when not in use.

[0121] It should be noted that the above-mentioned embodiments illustrate rather than limit the invention, and that those skilled in the art will be able to design many alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims. In the claims, any reference signs placed between parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the claim. Use of the verb "comprise" and its conjugations does not exclude the presence of elements or steps other than those stated in a claim. The article "a" or "an" preceding an element does not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements.

Claims

1. C l a i m s1. A towing unit (100) for a first person (A) to be pulled by a second person (B) during outdoor activities, the towing unit (100) comprising:- a pull means (105) having a support surface (109) configured to bear against a body portion of the first person (A); and- a pole (102) having a first end movably connected to the support surface (109) of the pull means (105), the pole (102) further having a longitudinal axis (L); wherein the towing unit (100) is further configured to permit relative angular movement between the longitudinal axis (L) of the pole (102) and the support surface (109) of the pull means (105).

2. The towing unit (100) according to claim 1, further comprising an angle-locking mechanism (103) for restricting the angular movement.

3. The towing unit (100) according to claim 2, wherein the angle-locking mechanism (103) comprises a limiting device (108) configured to provide a restricted range of motion in all directions of the pull means (105) relative to the pole (102), where the deviation is from 2 or 5 to 10, 15 or 20 degrees.

4. The towing unit (100) according to claim 2, wherein the angle-locking mechanism (103) is configured to:i) stepwise or smoothly move the pole (102) with respect to the pull means (105) and optionally hold the pole (102) and the pull means (105) locked at at least one desired angle, the angle of the pole (102) relative to the pull means (105) being from 0 to 180 degrees, orii) move the pole (102) relative to the pull means (105) freely between a first angle and a second angle, where the first angle is different from the second angle and the first and second angles are between 0 and 180 degrees.

5. The towing unit (100) according to claim 4, wherein the angle-locking mechanism (103) comprises a locking means (104) configured for locking the pole (102) with respect to the pull means (105) at the desired angle.

6. The towing unit (100) according to any one of claims 1-5, wherein the pole (102) is an extendable pole (102), wherein the length of the extendable pole (102) is configured to be regulated to a desired length stepwise or smoothly.

7. The towing unit (100) according to any one of claims 1-6, wherein the pull means (105) is a pull disc (105) having a round and slightly concave or flat shape.

8. The towing unit (100) according to any one of claims 1-7, further comprising a mounting device (106) for releasably connecting the pull means (105) and the pole (102).

9. The towing unit (100) according to any one of claims 1-8, further comprising a fastening means (101) arranged on a second end of the pole (102) for fastening the towing unit (100) to a holder (200).

10. A portable towing device (10) comprising the towing unit (100) according to any one of claims 1-9, further comprising a holder (200) for being carried by the second person (B).

11. The portable towing device (10) according to claim 10, wherein the holder (200) comprises:- at least one mounting strap (201, 202, 203, 204) configured for attachment to a belt, a harness, a backpack, or a piece of clothing to be worn by the second person;- a retractable cord (207) arranged to be connectible to the fastening means (101) of the towing unit (100); and- a container (209) for housing the retractable cord (207) when not subjected to a physical load.

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