Multi-position user support device for a stand-up paddle board

A device for providing user-support on a stand-up paddle board (SUP) includes a support post having a user-support pad mounted to its upper end portion and a horizontal rotation axle around which the support post is rotatable to a position for use, and to a stored position. The device is configured to be mounted to the SUP with the horizontal rotation axle positioned transversely to a length of the SUP. The device includes a spring component returnably connected to the support post via the horizontal rotation axle, configured to impose a return force on the support post in the stored position.

FIELD OF DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure relates generally to stand-up paddle board accessories, in particular, to seats for stand-up paddle boards.

BACKGROUND

Stand up paddle boards (“SUPs”) are a popular alternative to kayaks, canoes and so on to those looking for a full-body workout, while enjoying time on the water. Many SUP enthusiasts also enjoy fishing, leading to a few products that allow some kind of seat positioned on the SUP for that purpose, or simply to allow the user to sit comfortably between stand-up paddling. The incorporation of a seat may also allow a user increased time out on the water during each excursion on a SUP.

To date, two basic types of seats are known for this purpose, each having a post with a seat attached. One type is free-standing, without mechanical attachment to any base on the SUP; and the other requires a permanent base to be installed on the board. The post having the seat attached locks into the base for use. Both the free-standing seat and the seat attachment that locks into the permanent base can be removed from the board when not in use. While the free-standing seat can be folded down out of the way during paddling, it requires some maneuvering to place it back in a seating position again. The lock-in type is extremely difficult to place in a seating position or to remove and lay flat while paddling and must be locked/unlocked from the base to do so.

Both have only two possible positions while on the board, a seating position with the post perpendicular to the board and one with the post horizontal to the board. Both seating types also lack stability. The free-standing type, during use in a seating position, is held onto the board only by the paddler's weight, making it possible to knock the seat over and even off the board, possibly causing injury to the user in the process. On the other hand, while the type that locks appears to be quite sturdy in the upright position, since the post can only lie in a horizontal position when unlatched from the permanent base, it lacks the flexibility to easily move it out of the user's way while out on the water, and thus also creates a safety issue.

Accordingly, there is a need for a multi-position, adjustable, and board-mounted support device for a stand-up paddleboard that is sturdily attached to the SUP while being easy to adjust to a number of positions, including user-selected sitting and leaning (or support) positions and a stowed position, while on the water.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure is directed to a multi-position, adjustable, and board-mounted user-support device for a stand-up paddleboard. The device is sturdily attached to the SUP while being easy to adjust to a number of positions, including user-selected sitting or leaning positions and a stow-away storage position, while on the water.

The present disclosure is also directed to a multi-position user-support device for a stand-up paddle board, which includes a base configured to mount on a stand-up paddle board; a support post rotatably mounted to the base; and a spring component mounted to and between the base and the support post. The support device includes a pad configured to support a user's weight while leaning or sitting thereon, wherein the pad is operatively mounted on an upper end portion of the support post. The spring component is configured to maintain a return force on the support post when the support post is rotated away from the base toward a rear portion of the base and the rear of the stand-up paddle board.

In aspects, the device further includes a telescopic portion adjustable in length.

In additional aspects, the support post is rotatable around the base from a substantially horizontal position, a stored position, over the rear portion of the base and the rear of the stand-up paddle board to a substantially horizontal position, a forward sitting position, forward of the base.

In still additional aspects, the device may further include a seat attachment.

In aspects, the device is configured to enable a user to adjust the support post to a number of angular positions relative to the base, including user-selected leaning positions, the forward sitting position, and the storage position. In additional aspects, the device includes dual-position seating attachment and is further configured to adjust the support post and seating attachment to a sitting stool position.

The present disclosure is also directed to a device for providing user-support on a stand-up paddle board which includes a base, a support post, a user-support pad, and a spring component. The base has a mounting surface for mounting on a stand-up paddle board, and includes a forward portion, a rear portion, and a horizontal rotation axle between the forward portion and the rear portion. A lower end portion of the support post is rotatably connected to the base for rotation around the horizontal rotation axle of the base. The user-support pad is mounted to an upper end portion of the support post. A first end portion of the spring component is fixed to the base and a second end portion of the spring component is returnably connected to the support post via the horizontal rotation axle, the spring component at least partially encircling the horizontal rotation axle. The second end portion is positioned to impose a return force on the support post in a rearwardly rotated position over the rear portion of the base.

In aspects, the spring component further defines a resting position corresponding to a forwardly rotated position around the horizontal rotation axle of the base to which the support post rotatably returns. The support post forms an angle of ninety degrees or less with the forward portion of the base in the resting position.

In various aspects, the spring component includes an elasticized band, a coiled spring or a combination of both.

In other aspects, the spring component includes an elasticized band, with the first end portion of the elasticized band fixed to a first position on the rear portion of the base and the second end portion of the elasticized band fixed to a second position on a forward side of the support post. The forward side of the support post is adjacent to the forward portion of the base. The elasticized band has a relaxed state in the resting position, and is configured to stretch in length between the first position and the second position with rotation of the support post around the horizontal rotation axle toward the rear portion of the base.

In additional aspects, the spring component includes a coiled spring, wherein the first end portion of the coiled spring is fixed to a first position on a forward portion of the base, the second end portion of the coiled spring is fixed to a second position on a rear side of the support post, and a coiled portion between the first end portion and the second end portion is wrapped around the horizontal rotation axle. The coiled spring is in a relaxed state in the resting position, and is configured to twistingly tighten between the first position and the second position with rotation of the support post around the horizontal rotation axle toward the rear portion of the base.

In other aspects, the user-support pad is rotatably connected to the upper end portion of the support post for rotation around an upper rotation axis, which is perpendicular to the support post, of the upper end portion.

In still other aspects, the lower end portion of the support post is rotatable around the horizontal rotation axis of the base to define a forward sitting position of the device. The support post is horizontally disposed over the forward portion of the base in the forward sitting position.

The user-support pad, in aspects, is rotatably connected to the upper end portion of the support post for rotation around an upper rotation axis of the upper end portion, the upper rotation axis being perpendicular to the support post, and is configured to be rotatable to define a back support perpendicular to the base in the forward sitting position of the device.

The user-support pad, in additional aspects, is also rotatable to a lean-back position, the support post in a forwardly rotated position defining a leaning position of the device. The support post is adjustable to an acute angle with the forward portion of the base in the leaning position.

In yet additional aspects, the support post is rotatably positionable horizontally over the rear portion of the base to define a stored position. The spring component is configured to maintain the return force on the support post in the stored position. The device further preferably includes a retaining element fixed to the base and positionable for retaining the support post in the stored position.

In aspects, the retaining element includes a latching portion positioned over the support post in the stored position.

The retaining element may include a spring-activated catch and release mechanism.

In further aspects, the device may include a fixed elbow attached to a rear of the lower end portion of the support post and a spring-activated catch and release mechanism. The spring-activated catch and release mechanism includes a spring-activated elbow catch mounted to the base and positioned to frictionally engage the fixed elbow on the support post in the stored position, and a release pedal operatively connected to the spring-activated elbow catch.

In yet other aspects, the device further includes a dual-position seat attachment.

The dual-position seat attachment may include two legs positioned below the user-support pad and a connector. An upper end of each of the two legs is hingedly coupled via the connector to the upper end portion of the support post. The seat attachment may also include a fixing element configured to fix a bottom end of each of the two legs to the support post in a first position, wherein the two legs are fixed via the fixing element in-line with the support post in the first position.

The fixing element is further configured to release the two legs from the first position in-line with the support post to rotate to a second position of the dual-position seat attachment. The dual-position seat attachment further includes a stabilizing base fixed to the bottom end of each of the two legs, the stabilizing base being horizontally disposed adjacent the forward portion of the base in the second position.

In still other aspects, the support post includes a telescopic length-adjusting portion, the support post being fixedly adjustable in length via the telescopic length-adjusting portion.

In aspects, the base is formed of a deformable plastic material and includes an upper surface, the upper surface including one or more strap-receiving recessed channels traversing a width of the base across at least one of the forward portion and the rear portion.

The present disclosure is also directed to a device for providing user-support on a stand-up paddle board. The device includes a support post, the support post including a user-support pad mounted to an upper end portion of the support post; and a horizontal rotation axle, the support post rotatably connected to the horizontal rotation axle for rotation to a position for use, and to a stored position. The device is configured to be mounted to the stand-up paddle board with the horizontal rotation axle positioned transversely to a length of the stand-up paddle board. The device also includes a spring component, which is returnably connected to the support post via the horizontal rotation axle and configured to impose a return force on the support post in the stored position.

In aspects, the device may further include a fixed arm operatively mounted to the stand-up paddle board and a positioning arm operatively connected to the support post, wherein the positioning arm is co-aligned with and rotationally positionable to the fixed arm via the horizontal rotation axis.

In aspects, the spring component at least partially encircles the horizontal rotation axle, the spring component including a first end portion fixed to the fixed arm and a second end portion fixed to the positioning arm such that rotation of the positioning arm toward the stored position twistingly tightens the spring component to impose the return force on the support post.

The positioning arm, in aspects, may include locking grooves and the fixed arm may include complementary locking grooves configured to interlock with the locking grooves, the locking grooves and the complementary locking grooves positioned on interior facing surfaces of the positioning arm and the fixed arm, respectively, for locking the support post to the position, i.e., to a locked rotational position, for use.

The spring component may, in aspects, be sandwiched between the positioning arm and the fixed arm in the locked rotational position for use.

In additional aspects, the device may include a locking element configured to force the positioning arm and the fixed arm together for locking the support post to the locked rotational position, and to separate the positioning arm and the fixed arm for unlocking and rotating the support post.

In further aspects, a fixed tab is attached to a first end portion of the horizontal rotation axle, and is positioned on an outer surface of the positioning arm. The horizontal rotation axle may also include a second end portion extending through an outer surface of the fixed arm, wherein the locking element is connected to the second end portion and includes a locking tab having a downward position. The locking tab in the downward position cooperates with the fixed tab to force the fixed arm and the positioning arm together in the locked rotational position. In an upward position, the locking tab cooperates with the fixed tab to separate and disengage the fixed arm and the positioning arm for rotating the support post.

The locking element, in aspects, is configured to lock the support post in the stored position with the return force on the support post, the spring component being tighteningly twisted in the stored position. The support post springs upward from the stored position with the unlocking of the locking element to separate the positioning arm and the fixed arm.

In some aspects, the device also includes a base configured to removably mount the device to the stand-up paddle board.

In some aspects, the device also includes a dual-position seat attachment.

The present disclosure is also directed to a stand-up paddle board, which includes a device for providing user-support on a stand-up paddle board. In aspects, the device may include a base and be removably mounted to the stand-up paddle board via the base. In additional aspects, the stand-up paddle board may include a recessed surface to which at least a portion of the base is mounted thereto.

The device includes a support post, the support post including a user-support pad mounted to an upper end portion of the support post; and a horizontal rotation axle, the support post rotatably connected to the horizontal rotation axle for rotation to a position for use, and to a stored position. The device is mounted to the stand-up paddle board with the horizontal rotation axle positioned transversely to a length of the stand-up paddle board. The device also includes a spring component, returnably connected to the support post via the horizontal rotation axle and configured to impose a return force on the support post in the stored position.

In aspects, the device further includes a fixed arm operatively mounted to the stand-up paddle board and a positioning arm operatively connected to the support post, wherein the positioning arm is co-aligned with and rotationally positionable to the fixed arm via the horizontal rotation axis.

In additional aspects, the spring component at least partially encircles the horizontal rotation axle, the spring component including a first end portion fixed to the fixed arm and a second end portion fixed to the positioning arm such that rotation of the positioning arm toward the stored position twistingly tightens the spring component to impose the return force on the support post.

The positioning arm includes, in aspects, locking grooves and the fixed arm includes, in aspects, complementary locking grooves configured to interlock with the locking grooves. The locking grooves and the complementary locking grooves are positioned on interior facing surfaces of the positioning arm and the fixed arm, respectively, for locking the support post in the position to a locked rotational position for use, with the spring component sandwiched between the positioning arm and the fixed arm in the locked rotational position.

In aspects, the device further includes a locking element configured to force the positioning arm and the fixed arm together for locking the position to the locked rotational position and to separate the positioning arm and the fixed arm for unlocking and rotating the support post.

In aspects, the device further includes a fixed tab attached to a first end portion of the horizontal rotation axle and positioned on an outer surface of the positioning arm. The horizontal rotation axle also includes, in aspects, a second end portion extending through an outer surface of the fixed arm, wherein the locking element is connected to the second end portion and includes a locking tab. In a downward position, the locking tab cooperates with the fixed tab to force the fixed arm and the positioning arm together in the locked rotational position. The locking tab in an upward position cooperates with the fixed tab to separate and disengage the fixed arm and the positioning arm for rotating the support post.

The locking tab, in aspects, is also configured to lock the support post in the stored position with the return force on the support post, the spring component being tighteningly twisted in the stored position. The support post is configured to spring upward from the stored position with the unlocking of the locking element to separate the positioning arm and the fixed arm.

In aspects, the device may further include a dual-position seat attachment, wherein the dual-position seat attachment includes two legs positioned below the user-support pad and a connector, an upper end of each of the two legs hingedly coupled via the connector to an upper end portion of the support post, and a fixing element configured to fix a bottom end of each of the two legs to the support post in a first position. The two legs may be fixed via the fixing element in-line with the support post in the first position. The fixing element may be further configured to release the two legs from the first position to rotate to a second position of the dual-position seat attachment, the dual-position seat attachment further including a stabilizing base fixed to the bottom end of each of the two legs.

In addition to the above aspects of the present disclosure, additional aspects, objects, features and advantages will be apparent from the embodiments presented in the following description and in connection with the accompanying drawings.

The various aspects of the present disclosure mentioned above are described in further detail with reference to the aforementioned figures and the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Particular illustrative embodiments of the present disclosure are described hereinbelow with reference to the accompanying drawings; however, the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of the disclosure, which may be embodied in various forms. It should be apparent to those skilled in the art that the described embodiments provided herein are illustrative only and not limiting, having been presented by way of example only. All features disclosed in this description may be replaced by alternative features serving the same or similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise. Therefore, numerous other embodiments of the modifications thereof are contemplated as falling within the scope of the present disclosure as defined herein and equivalents thereto. Well-known functions or constructions and repetitive matter are not described in detail to avoid obscuring the present disclosure in unnecessary or redundant detail. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting. In this description, as well as in the drawings, like-referenced numbers represent elements which may perform the same, similar, or equivalent functions.

Throughout the description, where items are described as having, including, or comprising one or more specific components or features, it is contemplated that, additionally, there are items of the present disclosure that consist essentially of, or consist of, the one or more recited components or features.

As described below in reference to a particular embodiment shown in the figures, the present disclosure is directed to a multi-position adjustable and board-mounted user support device that enables a user to select and easily switch between a plurality of positions while the user and SUP are already on the water. The plurality of positions includes positions for supporting the user while paddling or resting, and a stowed position when not in use with a very small footprint.

Referring toFIGS. 1A-1D, an embodiment of a device5of the present disclosure includes a base8that is preferably configured to mount to a stand-up paddle board10(“SUP”) using any suitable fixing means to affix the base8on the SUP. In embodiments, the base8may be fixed so that it becomes a permanent fixture on the SUP and is not easily removed without damage to the SUP. In some embodiments, a mounting surface2of the base8may be affixed with mounting hardware such as screws, and/or with any suitable durable, water-proof epoxy, and/or the mounting surface2may include a rubberized mounting suction cup.

In other embodiments, the base8may be configured to be removably mounted via a brace and/or straps (see, e.g., straps100,FIG. 7C) or other less permanent means to the SUP.

Referring toFIG. 1D, the base8of the user-support device5, in embodiments, is formed of a pliable, preferably a deformable plastic material, and has an upper surface1substantially parallel to the mounting surface2. Preferably the mounting surface2is sufficiently pliable to conform to the shape of, and be mounted flush to, the top surface of the SUP.

Referring toFIGS. 2A-2C, the device5further includes a support post12including a lower end portion11rotatably mounted or connected to the base8, for example, via a mounting assembly13, for rotation around a horizontal rotation axis64of the base8. In the embodiments ofFIGS. 2A-2C, the horizontal rotation axis64is defined by a horizontal rotation axle60, which may be, e.g., a cylindrical pin fixed to the base8.

The support post12, in embodiments, may be configured to be removably mounted at the lower end portion11to the base8. Accordingly, the base8may remain attached to the board10, either by permanent fixing means or by other removable means, when the SUP is not in use, while the remainder of the device5is removed to facilitate transporting the SUP and/or device5out of the water.

Referring toFIGS. 2A and 2C, for example, the base8includes a forward portion7and a rear portion9, with the horizontal rotation axis64, e.g., horizontal rotation axle60, traversing the width of the base8and positioned between the forward portion7and the rear portion9. In embodiments, the base8also includes two support rails6, for example, raised side support rails6projecting upward from the floor of the base8, to which each end of the horizontal axle60is operatively connected.

In some embodiments, the base8, including support rails6, may be integral with the SUP, so that the user-support device5is removably mounted to the SUP via the rotation axle60.

Each of the side support rails6in embodiments extends from the forward portion7to the rear portion9of the base8. It will be appreciated that a SUP is configured for efficient forward travel in one direction and has a streamlined shape for that purpose that includes a nose and a tail corresponding to a forward section and rear section of the SUP, respectively, relative to the direction of travel. The device5is configured to mount onto a SUP such that the forward portion7of the base8is adjacent a forward section of the SUP, relative to the position of the rotation axle60. Similarly, a forward rotation of the support post12refers herein to a rotation of the support post12in the forward direction of travel of the SUP, such that a forwardly rotated position of the support post12would position the support post12over the forward portion7of the base8and over the forward section of the SUP on which the base8is mounted. Likewise, when mounted onto a SUP, the rear portion9of the base8is adjacent a rear section of the SUP, relative to the position of the rotation axle60.

Referring still toFIGS. 2A-2C, the device5further includes a user-support pad14mounted on an upper end portion3of the support post12, against which a user may lean, and/or on which the user may sit in various embodiments. In embodiments, the mounting assembly13, in cooperation with the base8, enables rotation of the support post12and user-support pad14around the horizontal rotation axle60to any desired position.

Preferably, the user-support pad14is pivotedly or rotatably connected to the upper end portion3of the support post12to enable different positions and uses of the device5. A nominal, default position of user-support pad14may be perpendicular to the support post12for providing a forward sitting position (FIG. 1C), or certain lean-back positions. Preferably, the pad14is also configured to rotate forward and aft of nominal. For example, in a stowed position for the device5when not in use, also referred to herein as a stored position, as shown inFIG. 1A, the support post12is rotated down onto a rear of the board10so that the support post12is positioned horizontally over the rear portion9of the base8. The pad14may also be rotated around an upper horizontal axis34, which is oriented perpendicular to the support post12, to be substantially aligned with the support post12, i.e., substantially horizontal to the board10, in the stored position.

Referring toFIG. 1C, the support post12, via the lower end portion11, is also rotatable around the horizontal rotation axis64of the base8to define a forward sitting position of the device5, such that the support post12is horizontally disposed over the forward portion7of the base8. In the forward sitting position, the user-support pad14is rotatable around the upper horizontal axis34to define a back support perpendicular to the base8, as shown inFIG. 1C. In this position, a paddler may sit on the board10and lean back on the user-support pad14, using the pad14as a back rest. InFIG. 1C, the support post12may be forwardly rotated until one side of the pad14rests on the SUP10.

Referring, for example, toFIGS. 1B and 2B, the support post12is also rotatable and able to be used at any acute angle with the forward portion7of the base8that a user is comfortable with, in a lean-back position. The user-support pad14is rotatable around the upper horizontal axis34to a vertical or substantially vertical position with the support post12in a forwardly rotated position, or to any other rotated position that is comfortable for a paddler to lean back against.

Referring still toFIGS. 2A-2C, in embodiments, the device5may further include a telescoping portion15, which allows a length36of the support post12to be adjusted and fixed to the adjusted length as desired by the paddler. For example, in the stowed position,FIG. 1A, and the completely forward sitting position,FIG. 1C, the paddler may choose to shorten the support post12as much as possible. For leaning positions, as represented inFIG. 1B, the telescoping portion15may be adjusted by the user to an optimum length customized to the user's height, and the angular leaning position chosen by the user.

In embodiments, the support post12and base8are configured to freely swing in a controlled manner from the stowed position ofFIG. 1Ato the completely forward position ofFIG. 1Cand any position in between. In choosing a suitable angular leaning position as represented byFIG. 1B, for example, the paddler adjusts the length36of the support post12by adjusting the telescoping portion15and distributes his/her weight as needed to obtain a stable tripod effect, offering relief from standing while still being able to paddle. In this way, the device5may be stabilized to a particular position without the need for any additional hardware to lock in a user's chosen angular position.

In other embodiments, the device5may also include any suitable means known in the art, such as stabilizing ties of appropriate length attaching a forward-leaning support post12to the rear portion and/or to the forward portion of the base8or to the board10itself, to further stabilize the user's chosen angular leaning position.

Referring toFIGS. 3A-3F, in embodiments, the device5may also include a seat attachment16, which is preferably a dual-position seat attachment, like that shown inFIGS. 3A-3Cor like seat attachment17shown inFIGS. 3D-3Fas another example. The dual-position seat attachment of the disclosure, in embodiments, preferably includes a pair of supporting legs18positioned below the user-support pad14, wherein each upper end of the supporting legs18is hingedly coupled, via a connector22, for example, to the upper end portion3of the support post12. Preferably, the seat-attachment also includes a fixing element configured to fix the supporting legs18to, and in-line with, the support post12in a first position. Any suitable fixing element may be used to hold the seat attachment in alignment with the support post12. In embodiments, the fixing element includes apertures24located on the supporting legs18. A removable retaining pin20inserted through mutually-aligned through apertures24in both the support post12and supporting legs18fixes the device5in the first, in-line position.

When the device5is either in the stowed position ofFIG. 1A, or any of the lean back or forward sitting positions, as shown, e.g., inFIGS. 1B and 1C, the seat attachment16,17, is preferably fixed in a first position, with supporting legs18fixed in-line with the longitudinal axis of the support post12, which may include telescoping portion15in embodiments. Referring toFIGS. 3A-3C, to use the seating attachment in its second position as a stool for sitting on the SUP, the user can simply pull the retaining pin20out to hingedly release bottom ends26of the legs18from their in-line position, allowing the free ends26of the legs18to hingedly swing away from the base8and rest flat against the SUP10.

In embodiments, the retaining pin20is preferably tethered via string, rope, wire, twine or other suitable materials, to an attachment point (not shown) on the device5, so that it can be easily retrieved by the user for reinsertion through the apertures24, when desired.

Referring toFIGS. 3D-3F, embodiments of the seat attachment17of the disclosure may also include stability components27for enhancing the weight-bearing capacity of the seat attachment. As shown, these components27may include horizontal bars connecting the legs, preferably positioned on a forward side (corresponding to forward position of the base8) of the legs18, so that the stability components27do not prevent the legs18from being positioned in alignment with the support post12in the first position (seeFIG. 3F).

Referring also toFIG. 6A, in another embodiment100, the seat attachment may further include a stabilizing base102, of any appropriate shape, fixed to the bottom end26of each of the two legs18, which may be cylindrically shaped. When the dual-position seat attachment is in the second position for use as a stool, as shown inFIG. 6B, the stabilizing base102is horizontally disposed adjacent the forward portion7of the base8. To allow the seat attachment100to fold into alignment with the support post12, for example, for storing (see alsoFIG. 6C), the stabilizing base102preferably includes a cut-away section104on the rear side in a shape that allows the support post12to be positioned between the legs18when the seat attachment100is aligned in the first position.

As shown in the figures, the user-support pad14may be used in a leaning, or sitting position, and may be of any suitable size or shape to provide support as a back rest in a sitting position, or leaning position, or as a stool with a seat attachment. The user-support pad may be rotatably connected to the upper end portion3of the support post12by any suitable means. Likewise, the lower end portion11of the support post12may be rotatably connected to the base8by any suitable means. While not intending to be limited thereto, by way of example, referring toFIGS. 4F-4H, in embodiments of a rotatably connected pad14, a cylindrical connector28, with connector32in place, may be fixedly mounted on assembly between attachment tabs30that extend from an underside of the pad14to provide an upper rotation axle for the user-support pad14to rotate around the upper horizontal rotation axis34. The pad14is pivotedly connected to the support post12, which in embodiments, includes telescoping portion15, via the connector28.

In embodiments, the upper rotation axle28is configured to frictionally engage with the connector32, such that the pad14rotates with some resistance. In this way, once the user sets the desired rotational position of the pad14, it will not freely rotate, but requires application of force by the paddler. In other embodiments, locking elements such as retaining pins, may be used to set a rotational position of the pad14.

Referring toFIGS. 4A-4H, in one embodiment, the connector32is a hollow T-connector32. The cylindrical connector28is inserted through a top33of the T32and so that when the connector28is fixedly mounted by pins or other means to the pad14, e.g., in place between tabs30of the pad14, the top33of the T32is also positioned between the tabs30. Upon assembly, the pad14is thus configured to rotate around the fixed upper horizontal rotation axis34(around fixed rotation axle28) of the top33of the hollow T-connector32.

Referring toFIGS. 4D and 4E, the telescoping portion of the device5, in embodiments, includes a top portion38for operably connecting to the pad14(e.g., via a connector such as the T-connector32and rod28), and a bottom portion40. The top38and bottom portion40are configured to cooperate in a telescoping fashion to allow adjustment of the length36of the support post12in use. In one embodiment, the top portion38connects to the pad14by insertion into a bottom leg42of the T-connector32, as shown inFIGS. 4E and 4F. An upper end44of the top portion38may be sized for insertion into the T-connector32as shown.

The bottom portion40may, in embodiments, be inserted into the hollow end of the top portion38for telescopically adjusting the overall length36of the support post12. Referring also toFIG. 2A, an alignment aperture46in the bottom portion40is then aligned to one of a plurality of receiving apertures48in the upper portion38and a suitable locking ring or pin50is inserted through both the alignment aperture46and a selected receiving aperture48for fixing the length36of the telescoping portion15.

As shown, for example, inFIGS. 2A, 2BandFIGS. 4A-4D, the lower portion11of the support post12, which may include telescoping portion15, may be operatively and rotatably mounted to the horizontal rotation axle60in the base8via the mounting assembly13. In embodiments, mounting assembly13includes a hollow base T-connector54and a cylindrical rod as the horizontal rotation axle60, which may be fixed in place to the base8upon assembly by any suitable means, for example, using a screw or locking pin66mounted through an aperture67on the base8, and fixed via a receiving aperture (which may be threaded) in the rod60. A bottom end52of bottom portion40may be configured for insertion into a bottom leg56of the T-connector54.

Referring also toFIGS. 4I and 4J, embodiments of the device5that also include a seating attachment (seeFIGS. 3A-3F, 6A-6C), may also include a telescoping portion15to allow adjustment of the length36, having bottom portion40(seeFIG. 4D) for rotatably mounting to the base8, and for cooperating in a telescoping fashion with a top portion39(seeFIG. 4I), which is configured to rotatably mount the seat pad14thereto. For example, top portion39may include an aperture41through its top end, which may be aligned with aperture43in seating attachment16(FIG. 4J) for insertion of cylindrical rod28therethrough. The cylindrical rod28is then locked in between the tabs30of the pad14. Accordingly, in the embodiments that include a seating attachment, instead of the rod28being inserted into the T-connector32to operatively attach the pad14to the telescoping portion15, the rod28is inserted through apertures41and43to hingedly mount the seating attachment16to the telescoping portion15.

It should be noted that the telescoping portion15may have cylindrical outer and inner diameters or appropriate dimensions, as shown inFIGS. 4D, 4Eand the section ofFIG. 4Ithat includes receiving apertures48, or may have rectangular or other suitably shaped cross-sections of suitable dimensions to allow the telescoping of one (top/bottom) portion inside the other. When including a seating attachment16,17which may include planar surfaces45(FIGS. 4J, 3A-3E), in embodiments, at least an upper portion47of the top39of the telescoping portion15is preferably rectangularly shaped to provide a smaller footprint in the folded configuration ofFIG. 3A, for example.

In other embodiments of the device including a dual-position seat attachment, for example, as shown inFIG. 3F, the entire telescoping portion15is cylindrical.

To rotatably mount the support post12to the base8, the horizontal rotation axle60around which the support post12rotates is preferably fixed to the base8between the forward portion7and the rear portion9. In the embodiment ofFIGS. 4A-4H, a top58of the T-connector54is aligned with two opposing apertures62, one in each of the two raised side support rails6on the base8, and the horizontal rotation axle60, which may be a cylindrical rod or pin, is inserted through the top58of the T-connector54and locked in position between the two opposing apertures62. The inner diameter of the top58of the T-connector54and outer diameter of the pin60are sized so that the support post12, along with the T-connector54to which the device is mounted, can freely rotate about the horizontal rotation axis64defined by the two opposing apertures62and pin60.

Referring toFIGS. 4K, 4L, andFIGS. 5A-5D, the device5also preferably includes a spring component, such as an elasticized band or strap70or coiled spring72, preferably a torsional spring. In embodiments, the spring component may include a combination of both a coiled spring72and elasticized band70. Referring, for example, toFIG. 5AandFIG. 5C, the spring component is appropriately fixed to the base8and returnably connected to the support post12to resist rotation of the support post12via the horizontal rotation axle60in a rearward direction71over the rear portion9of the base8. The spring component thus imposes a load, or return force, on the support post12as it is rotated in the rearward direction71(toward the rear portion9of the base8). Accordingly, when the support post12is fully rotated into the stored position (seeFIGS. 1A, 1D, e.g.), it is fully loaded, e.g., spring-loaded with a return force.

Preferably, embodiments of the device5also include a retaining element, which can be any suitable latch, fixed to the base8and configured to hold the post12down in position over the rear of the SUP14in the stored position. For example, in embodiments, the retaining element may be a simple sliding or pivotedly positioned latch that can be easily positioned over the support post12in the stored position. Referring toFIGS. 1D, 2A-C, and4M, for example, the retaining element may be a latch68pivotedly fixed to the base8, which includes a latching portion69that can be easily pivoted and positioned, using the end of a paddle, for example, over the support post12to retain it in the stored position (FIGS. 2A, 1D). When the paddler wishes to use the device5, the paddler may use the paddle to pivot the latching portion69away from the support post12, as shown inFIG. 2C, for example, unlatching and releasing the spring-loaded post12from its stored position.

Referring toFIGS. 5A and 5C, once the support post12is released from its stowed or stored position by releasing or unlatching the retaining element, the support post12automatically springs up and rotatably returns along a path74around the horizontal rotation axle60preferably to a forwardly rotated position, i.e., forward of vertical, so that it is well within the user's reach. In the forwardly rotated position, the support post12forms an angle of ninety degrees or less with the forward portion7of the base8. In embodiments, the forwardly rotated position to which the support post12returns is a resting position75defined by a position in which the spring component is in a relaxed state, i.e., with no load or force imposed on, or by, the spring component.

To obtain the return functionality of the spring-loaded support post12of the disclosure, a first end portion73of a spring component, such as the elasticized band70ofFIGS. 5A and 5B, may be fixed at a first position76on the rear portion9of the base8by any suitable means (peg, e.g.). A second end portion77is attached at a second position78on a forward side of the support post12, the elasticized band70being stretched from the first position76on the base around a bottom of, and partially encircling, the horizontal rotation axle60, to the second position78on the forward side (adjacent the forward portion7of the base8) of the support post12. Rotation of the support post12in the rearward direction71over the rear portion9of the base8, lengthens the distance traversed by the elasticized band70between the first position76and the second position78and thus stretches the band70and loads the support post12with a return force.

Preferably, the relaxed state of the band70is not reached until the pad14on the end of the telescoping portion15is positioned well forward of vertical80. Preferably, the strap70is not fully relaxed before the pad14is in the forward back-rest position shown inFIG. 1C.

Multiple pegs at multiple positions78may be provided at different heights along the forward side of the support post12so that the load or return force on the support post12can be increased or decreased as desired.

Referring toFIGS. 5C and 5D, in another embodiment, the spring element may include a torsion spring72, with a first end portion83fixed by any suitable means to a first position84on the forward portion7of base68, and a second end portion85is returnably connected at a second position82to a rear side of the support post12, preferably with a coiled portion79between the first end portion83and the second end portion85encircling and wrapped around the horizontal rotation axle60. The second end portion85is positioned such that rotation of the support post12in a rearward direction71over the rear portion9of the base8twistingly tightens the coiled portion79to impose a return force on the support post12when in a rearwardly rotated position over the rear portion of the base. When the support post12is in the resting position75, the torsion spring72is in a relaxed state, with no load or return force imposed on the support post12.

Accordingly, the spring component72is configured to maintain a return force on the support post12when it is rotated to the stored position (seeFIG. 6C, e.g.) horizontally disposed over the rear portion9of the base8and over the rear of the stand-up paddle board14, where it is held in place by a retaining element or latch88, and to return the device to a forward position on the SUP14for easy access when unlatched and released from the stowed position.

Referring also toFIGS. 7A-7C, in embodiments, the retaining element can include a spring-activated catch and release latch88. In embodiments, the latch88includes an elbow catch94fixed to a rear of the lower end portion11of the support post12, and a latching portion, such as a spring-activated elbow catch92, operatively fixed to the rear portion9of the base8. The spring-activated elbow catch92is positioned to frictionally engage the fixed elbow94, and to automatically capture and retain the support post12in the stored position, by simply pushing the support post12down in a rearward direction onto the spring-activated elbow catch92, until the catch92is pushed sufficiently downward to engage and capture the elbow catch94on the support post12.

The spring-activated catch and release latch88also includes a release pedal or tab90, operatively connected to the spring-activated elbow catch92. To release the support post12from its stored, latched position, a paddler may push or step on the release tab90, which pivots the spring-activated elbow catch92upward to disengage the fixed elbow94.

Referring still toFIGS. 7A-7C, the spring-activated elbow catch92, the spring portion96of the release mechanism, and the release pedal90are, in embodiments, connected to the base8via a dowel98pivotedly connected at its end portions to the two raised side support rails6on the base8.

Referring still toFIGS. 7A-7C, in embodiments, the base8may be configured to be removably mounted via a brace and/or straps100or other less permanent means to the SUP. An upper surface102of the base8may include one or more strap-receiving recessed channels104traversing a width of the base8. In embodiments, one of the channels is preferably located on the forward portion7and one on the rear portion9of the base8. Any suitable strap100of any suitable cloth or elasticized material that can be wrapped around the SUP may be positioned within each channel104and tightened to hold the base8onto the board. Such straps100may include, but are not limited to, a strap tied together at its ends around the board, a belted strap, a ratcheted strap, and so on.

Additional embodiments of a user-support device200, which is rotationally positional by the user as desired, including, but not limited to, any of the positions shown inFIGS. 1A-1C, is described and shown by reference toFIGS. 8-11C.

With reference toFIGS. 8 and 9, a stand-up paddle board205of the present disclosure may include a user-support device200, which, in embodiments, is removably mounted to the SUP205.FIGS. 8-11Calso describe embodiments of a user-support device200for mounting to a SUP.

In embodiments, the device200for providing user-support on a stand-up paddle board205may include a mounting surface202, which is configured to mount to the stand-up paddle board205, and a rotatable support post212with user-support pad214. The device200may also include a base208, which may provide the mounting surface202. The device200, and in embodiments, the base208, includes a forward portion207, and a rear portion209aligned to a forward216and a rearward section218, respectively, of the SUP205as described herein.

As shown inFIGS. 8 through 11C, the base208may include a stem180(FIGS. 10C, 10D, 11C, e.g.), which provides the mounting surface202, and which may be inserted into a bore170(shown in dotted line as it would not be visible with the device200mounted therein) provided in an upper surface172of the SUP205for use. It should be noted that the device200may be mounted to any surface of the SUP205, including but not limited to the upper surface172or a recessed surface provided in the board, including but not limited to, for example, the bore170.

In embodiments, the device200is configured to be removably mounted to the SUP205. In some embodiments, at least a lower portion of the device200, e.g., the base208, which may include the stem180, may remain integral with the SUP205, with at least the portion of the device200including the support post212being removable when not in use.

The SUP205and/or stem180may be provided with any suitable tab or locking element to stabilize the device200on the SUP205when mounted for use. In some embodiments, the stem180may be configured to tightly fit into a deep-enough bore to be secure for use. In other embodiments, the stem180may be inserted into and/or fixed, and in embodiments, integral with a planar surface, such as the mounting surface2of the base8shown inFIGS. 7A and 7C, which may then be affixed with any type of mounting hardware, or removably mounted via a brace and/or straps (see, e.g., straps100,FIG. 7C) or other less permanent means to the SUP, as described supra.

Referring, for example, toFIG. 11C, in embodiments, the stem180is oval-shaped, or of other similar shape, the bore in the SUP having a complementary shape for positioning the stem180therein, to help the user orient the device200relative to the forward and rear sections of the SUP205. In still additional embodiments, the stem180may include a ridge or other alignment element182along one outer surface, with the bore in the SUP205having a complementary recess appropriately positioned into which the ridge182or other element would align, to ensure that the stem180may only be inserted in one orientation for use.

Referring toFIGS. 10A-10D, the device200includes a horizontal rotation axle260, which is operatively mounted to the stand-up paddle board205, in embodiments, via the base208between the forward portion207and the rear portion209. The device200is configured to be mounted to the SUP205with the horizontal rotation axle260positioned transversely174to a length (or normal direction of travel) of the SUP205, so that the device200can rotate around the horizontal rotation axle260from a forward216to a rear218position of the SUP205.

The support post212is rotatably connected, via a lower end portion211, for example, to the horizontal rotation axle260for rotation around the horizontal rotation axle260so that the support post212is rotatable over the forward section216and over the rear section218of the SUP205. The support post212is thus rotatable to any position for use, including to a vertical upright position, as selected by the paddler. Various positions are described herein supra. The device200and support post212can include any of the features of the embodiments ofFIGS. 1A-3C, for example, including, but not limited to, a telescoping portion176and a pad rotation axle178for rotation of the user-support pad214. The support post212is also rotatable to a stored position, as described herein, when a paddler chooses not to use the device200, but does not wish to remove it. In embodiments, the stored position is over the rear section218of the SUP205, and in further embodiments, rotated as far over the rear section218as possible, as shown inFIG. 1C, for example. However, the stored position, in embodiments, could optionally correspond to a forward rotated position over the forward section216, e.g., rotated as far over the forward section216as possible.

The device also includes a spring component270returnably connected to the support post212via the horizontal rotation axle260. The spring component270is positioned and configured to impose a return force on the support post212when it is in a stored position, for example, rearwardly rotated over the rear section218of the SUP205. In embodiments, the spring component270at least partially encircles the horizontal rotation axle260.

As shown, in embodiments, a first end portion273of the spring component270is configured to be operatively fixed to a position on the SUP205. In embodiments, the first end portion273is fixed to a fixed arm184, which is operatively mounted to the SUP205, for example, via the base208. Neither the fixed arm184nor the first end portion273, in embodiments, rotate with the rotation of the support post212. A second end portion277is operatively connected to the support post212via a positioning arm186, and is rotatable with the positioning arm186and support post212attached thereto. The spring component270may be a torsional spring, configured such that a return force is imposed when the device200is rotated to a stored position, which in embodiments is a rearward position over the rear section218of the SUP205.

As can be seen inFIGS. 10C, 10D, 11A and 11C, each of the positioning arm186and the fixed arm184have locking grooves188and188′. To lock the support post212into any desired position, the positioning arm186and the fixed arm184are forced together using a locking element274, described below, such that the locking grooves188and complementary locking grooves188′, positioned on interior facing surfaces166,164of the positioning arm186and the fixed arm184, respectively, interlock to hold the desired position. Each of the first273and second end portion277of the spring component270may, for example, be fixed simply by wedging each into one of the grooves188′ and188, respectively. In other embodiments, each of the ends may be fixed by other suitable means including, but not limited to, epoxy, or by threading through a hole provided through, for example, the raised edges forming one of the grooves.

As in other embodiments, in the forwardly rotated position, in which the support post212forms an angle of ninety degrees or less with the forward section216of the SUP205, the spring component270is in a relaxed state, i.e., with no load or force imposed on the support post212by the spring component270. It will be appreciated that when assembling the end portions273,277of the spring component, the spring component should be in the relaxed state with the support post212oriented to form an angle of ninety degrees or less with the forward section216of the SUP205.

The stowed or stored position of the device200shown inFIGS. 8 and 9does not require a separate latching device on the board SUP205to keep it from springing up. Instead, referring toFIGS. 10A-10G, the device200includes a latching or locking device274that locks the support post212into any position, which is set by the paddler, between a forwardly rotated position with the support post212at least parallel or substantially parallel over the front216of the SUP205and a rearwardly rotated position with the support post212at least parallel or substantially parallel over the rear218of the SUP205, including in the stored position in which the spring270will be loaded. To rotate the support post212, the paddler simply unlocks the locking device274, for example, by flipping a tab160(seeFIG. 10B; tab160shown in a down, locked position) on the locking device274into an open position. This disengages the locking grooves188,188′ and allows rotation of the support post212. The spring component270will load, for example, by tightening of the coils168, as the support post212is forced toward a stored position, e.g., a rearward stored position. When rotated to a stored position, sufficiently out of the paddler's way, the paddler presses down on the tab160on the locking device274to engage the locking grooves188,188′ and fix the position of the support post212, with the spring component270in a loaded state. When the support post212is in this storage position, which in embodiments is a rearward position, and the tab160on the locking device274is flipped open, the spring uncoils or relaxes, springing the support post212back to an upright (vertical) or forwardly rotated position, so that it is well within the user's reach.

Referring toFIGS. 10C-10G, in embodiments, the horizontal rotation axle260may be in the form of a rod having a first end portion262, which may be a circular tab or head, configured to mount flush against an outer surface190of the positioning arm186upon assembly of the rod (horizontal rotation axle)260through co-aligned apertures192,192′ in both the positioning arm186and the fixed arm184. The locking device274may, in embodiments, be connected via a notch275, or any other connecting element, to a second end portion264of the horizontal rotation axle260, which extends through the outer surface194of the fixed arm184for assembly with the locking device274. The locking grooves188and188′ of each of the positioning arm186and the fixed arm184, respectively, are configured to align, interlock, and thus lock the support post212into any desired rotational position by forcibly pushing the locking mechanism274down into a locked position for use, or for storage.

Referring also toFIGS. 10C and 10D, when the horizontal rotation axle260is assembled through the positioning arm186and the fixed arm184and in co-alignment therewith, it is preferably also inserted between the coils168(seeFIG. 10E) of the spring component170, such that the spring component170encircles the horizontal rotation axle260. When the desired rotational position of the support post212is locked down by the paddler via the locking element274, the spring component170is sandwiched between the fixed arm184and the positioning arm186. To allow assembly of the spring component170, referring toFIGS. 11A-11C, the body of each of the fixed arm184and the positioning arm186may have recessed portions198and196, respectively, in inner facing portions224,226, respectively, which form an inner space into which the spring component270is positioned upon assembly.

Like other embodiments described herein, the spring270is positioned and configured such that rotation of the support post212toward the stored position, e.g., in a rearward direction over the rear section218of the SUP205, twistingly tightens the coiled portion168of the spring270to impose a return force on the support post212when in the stored position. In addition, in the embodiments ofFIGS. 8-11C, the rotational position of the support post212and user-support pad214may be set, and locked in, at a number of incremental rotational positions determined by the number of pairs of interlocking grooves188,188′, i.e., by the angular separation imposed by a spacing of the grooves188,188′. The support post212is thus locked in a stored position, with the spring270loaded with a return force, by the same locking element274that locks in any of the other rotational positions at which the paddler may wish to position the user-support pad214.

Additional embodiments of the device200shown and described in reference toFIGS. 8-11Cmay include any of the additional features described herein. For example, the device200may also include the seat attachment16shown inFIGS. 3A-3F, which may be a dual-position seat attachment, like that shown inFIGS. 3A-3Cor like seat attachment17shown inFIGS. 3D-3Fas another example.

It should also be appreciated that a stand-up paddle board, e.g., SUP205, including any of the embodiments of the device200or any other embodiments of the user-support device5of the present disclosure, which may be removably mounted to the SUP205, is also within the scope of the present disclosure.

With reference toFIGS. 8 and 9, for example, a stand-up paddle board205of the present disclosure may include a user-support device200, which, in embodiments, is removably mounted to the SUP205. The user-support device200includes the support post212with the user-support pad214mounted to its upper end portion203, and also includes the horizontal rotation axle260. The device is mounted to the stand-up paddle board205so that the horizontal rotation axle260is positioned transversely174to a length of the SUP205, for rotation around the horizontal rotation axle260to a position for use anywhere from the forward216to rear section218of the SUP205, and to a stored position. The device200, which may be removably mounted to the SUP205, also includes the spring component270(see alsoFIGS. 10C and 10D) returnably connected to the support post212via the horizontal rotation axle260, the spring component270being positioned and configured to impose a return force on the support post212when in a stored position, for example, rotated over the rear section218of the stand-up paddle board.

The various components of embodiments of the device of the present disclosure may be formed from any one or more of a number of, but not limited to, suitable metals or metal alloys, aluminum, carbon fiber, steel, plastics, fiberglass, and rubbers. As described, the device may further be configured with interchangeable locking parts as well as easily adjustable components, using a system of locking pins or rings. The device is configured to provide a small footprint on a SUP, especially when not in use, and to require minimum balance shifting of the user when stowing or releasing the device for use, and while adjusting the device to a comfortable leaning or sitting position while on the water.

Unlike any other known seat accessories for a SUP, the multi-position user-support device of the present disclosure provides an easy-to-adjust, use, and stow design requiring simple release with one's paddle to begin using on the water. Once released for use, locking pins may be utilized to lock in a desired length at any angular position selected by the user. The device is thus configured to avoid any weight shifting, leaning, and so on that might cause the paddler to lose his or her balance whether activating, using, adjusting, or stowing the device.

While particular embodiments of the disclosed device have been particularly shown and described with reference to specific embodiments, it should be apparent to those skilled in the art that the foregoing is illustrative only and not limiting, having been presented by way of example only. It is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of the disclosure, which may be embodied in various forms and detail without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting. Numerous other embodiments are contemplated that fall within the scope of the accompanying claims and equivalents thereto.