Lighten Up: Skateboard Innovations for Effortless Maneuverability
10 patents in this list
Updated:
In skateboarding, the weight of the board can significantly impact your performance. A lighter board translates to greater control, effortless tricks, and a less tiring ride. This page delves into how skateboard manufacturers are pushing the boundaries of design to create lightweight boards that don't compromise on durability or functionality.
From new materials to innovative construction methods, the latest innovations driving the future of skateboarding will also be uncovered in this page.
1. Foam-Filled Ribbed Chambers for High-Strength Lightweight Composite Panels
Gearbox, Inc., 2023
A composite panel structure and method of making high strength to weight ratio products like sports equipment and walls. The panel structure has outer layers with parallel internal ribs forming elongated chambers, each filled with foam or gas. The foam-filled chambers strengthen and stiffen the outer layers. The foam cores are wrapped in fibers, joined together, then covered with surface layers to form a pre-shape. This pre-shape is molded and cured to create the final composite structure. The foam-filled ribbed chambers provide strength and stiffness while keeping weight low. The foam cores can be expandable foams or non-expanding foams, and the chambers can be filled with expanding foams or gases, non-expanding foams, or a combination thereof.
2. High-Performance, Lightweight Multi-Material Skateboard Deck Design
KARSTEN MANUFACTURING CORPORATION, 2023
A high-performance skateboard deck that is lighter in weight compared to traditional skateboard decks. The deck comprises a laminated construction of resilient layers sandwiched between stiffening layers. The outer top and bottom layers are made of fiber-reinforced material for strength. The resilient internal layers absorb stress. The layers are encased in a resin matrix. The multi-material construction and fiber-reinforced outer layers provide strength while reducing weight compared to all-wood decks.
3. Multi-Material High-Performance Lightweight Skateboard Deck Design
KARSTEN MANUFACTURING CORPORATION, 2023
A high-performance skateboard with a lighter-weight yet durable deck construction using multiple materials. The deck has a few resilient internal layers encased in a resin matrix, along with outer stiffening layers made of fiber-reinforced material like carbon fiber. This provides strength and flex while reducing weight versus solid wood decks. The internal layers absorb stress while the outer layers add rigidity.
4. Lean-to-Turn Steering System for Low Profile Skateboards
Leverage Design Ltd., 2022
A compact and simplified steering system for low profile skateboards and other conveyances that allows riders to lean and turn without traditional trucks. The steering system replaces the bulky truck with an inclined axle mounting that slides along an inclined bearing surface as the rider leans to turn. The axle pivots about the inclined surface to provide the turning function.
5. Hybrid Carbon Fiber and Wood Skateboard Design for Enhanced Durability and Performance
James Blackmarr Wursthorn, 2022
A high-performance skateboard with defined dimensions, weight and flex characteristics that is durable and can withstand the forces of skateboard tricks. The skateboard has a carbon fiber layer sandwiched between wood layers for strength and flex. The carbon fiber is strategically located to reinforce areas prone to breakage like the center and mounting holes. The wood layers are laminated with glue under pressure.
6. Compact Self-Balancing Skateboard with Reduced Weight and Independent Wheel Movement
Bowen Li, 2022
Self-balancing personal vehicle with a compact design that reduces body size and weight. The vehicle body has independently movable left and right sides. A support bar inside the body connects the left and right drive wheels. A bracket encircles the support bar and limits left-right movement.
7. Quick-Release Motorized Wheel Assembly for Enhanced Durability in Light Electric Vehicles
Globe International Nominees Pty Ltd, 2020
Motorized wheel assembly for light electric vehicles like skateboards that allows easy wheel replacement and reduces damage to wiring and components. The assembly features a quick-release mechanism for the wheel to be mounted onto an axle with a socket. The motor and wiring are housed inside the axle, hanger, and truck channels, providing protection.
8. Composite Layered Skateboard Deck with Protective Features for Enhanced Durability and Performance
Mark Anthony Rosolowski, Gregory David Rosolowski, 2018
Skateboard deck construction to improve durability and performance by using composite layers, protective tipfills, and side edges. The deck has composite layers like carbon fiber to reduce weight while increasing strength. The composite layers inlay into protective tipfills and side edges to prevent damage.
9. Electric Skateboard with Swiveling Front Wheel and Rear Wheel Drive for Enhanced Portability
Razor USA LLC, 2018
Personal mobility vehicles like an electric skateboard with a small motor and rear wheel drive that allows for a lightweight and portable electric vehicle at a low cost. The skateboard has a swiveling front wheel, a powered rear wheel, and an optional extendable auxiliary wheel.
10. Advanced Lightweight Skateboard Trucks for Enhanced Maneuverability and Control
George William ILIFFE, III, 2018
Highly maneuverable, controllable, lightweight skateboard trucks that enable skateboard riders to execute maneuvers and tricks that would otherwise require a much higher skill level. The trucks have features like an in-line pivot configuration, customizable hanger widths, enhanced negative rake, and improved bushing seats to provide optimal turning and stability. The inline pivot reduces interference between components for smoother turning. The customizable hanger widths allow riders to match truck width to deck width for better control. The enhanced negative rake angle further improves turning responsiveness. The improved bushing seats prevent bushing displacement and provide consistent, thrust-bearing-like pivot action.
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The pursuit of lightweight skateboard designs has led to exciting advancements in materials, construction, and even steering systems. These innovations promise a future where skateboards are lighter, more maneuverable, and capable of pushing the limits of what's possible. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner, a lightweight board can undoubtedly elevate your skating experience to new heights.