Textured bottom skin for bodyboards and method
US5238434A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 15, 1991 |
| Grant date | Aug 24, 1993 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 15, 2011 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02T70/10
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A textured bottom surface is provided for bodyboards of the type which have a semi-rigid foam core and which are used to ride on waves such as ocean surf with the rider in a prone or procumbent position. The improved bottom surface comprises a plurality of discreet depressions formed in the bottom of the bodyboard, numbering at least 50-depressions over the entire bottom surface, and preferably numbering more than 1500 such depressions. The depressions are believed to generate bubbles in the air-water mixture passing beneath the board which help reduce the shear forces in the water. The effect is called air lubrication and results in reduced drag and greater speed, as well as a lighter "feel" for the board on water. A bodyboard incorporating the improved bottom surface, and a bottom skin for bodyboards which includes the texturing depressions, are disclosed. A method of forming the textured bottom skin is also disclosed.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.