WALKABLE SWIM FLIPPER

Abstract

A walkable swimming flipper includes a foot portion with a foot pocket and opposed sides, each side having a pivot joint. A fin portion with a fin tip and fin base includes first and second supports with corresponding hinges rotatably coupled to the pivot joints, enabling rotation between swimming and walking positions. At least one lock secures the fin portion in either position. Locking mechanisms include a twistable knob that inserts a tab into a locking hole near the fin base or a flange integrally formed with the foot portion. First and second buckles on the sides accommodate an adjustable heel strap.

Claims

1. A walkable swimming flipper comprising: a foot portion wherein the foot portion comprises a foot pocket and a first side and second side wherein the first side has a first pivot joint, and the second side has a second pivot joint; a fin portion having a fin tip and a fin base and a first support with a first hinge and a second support with a second hinge wherein the first hinge is rotatably coupled to the first pivot joint and the second hinge is rotatably coupled to the second pivot joint such that the fin portion rotates from a first position to a second position; and at least one lock coupled to at least one of the first side and the second side to lock the fin portion in at least one of the first position and the second position.

2. The swimming flipper of claim 1, wherein the fin portion has a blade portion that is between the first support and the second support.

3. The swimming flipper of claim 2, wherein the blade portion has at least one vertical rib that extends substantially from the fin base to the fin tip.

4. The swimming flipper of claim 1, wherein the foot portion has a front end and a back end wherein the front end has a flipper stop and the back end has a foot extension.

5. The swimming flipper of claim 3, wherein the blade portion has a locking hole substantially near the fin base.

6. The swimming flipper of claim 4, wherein the flipper stop supports and stops the fin portion when in its second position.

7. The swimming flipper of claim 5, wherein the lock comprises a knob that twists to insert a tab into the locking hole when the knob is twisted from an unlocked position to a locked position.

8. The swimming flipper of claim 1, wherein the first side and the second side has a first buckle and a second buckle wherein a heel strap is adjustably coupled to the first buckle and the second buckle.

9. The swimming flipper of claim 1, wherein the fin portion has channels that optimize water flow past the flipper.

10. The swimming flipper of claim 1 wherein one of the at least one locks is a flange coupled to the at one of the first side or the second side of the foot portion wherein the flange locks the fin portion in the second position.

11. A method of manufacturing a walkable swimming flipper, the method comprising the acts of: providing a foot portion and a fin portion; rotatably coupling the fin portion to the foot portion such that the fin portion may be rotated between a first position and a second position; coupling at least one lock to the foot portion that selectively locks the fin portion in at least one of the first position and the second position.

12. The method claim 11, further comprising providing a blade portion that is between a first support and a second support on the fin portion.

13. The method of claim 12, further comprising forming at least one vertical rib that extends substantially the length of the blade.

14. The method of claim 11, further comprising coupling a flipper stop on the front end of the foot portion and a foot extension on a back end of the foot portion.

15. The method of claim 12, further comprising providing a locking hole substantially near a fin base of the fin portion.

16. The method of claim 14, wherein the flipper stop supports and stops the fin portion when in its second position.

17. The method of claim 15, further comprising providing a knob that twists to insert a tab into the locking hole when the knob is twisted from an unlocked position to a locked position.

18. The method of claim 11, further comprising providing a first buckle and a second buckle that allows a heel strap to be adjusted to fit a user.

19. The method of claim 11, further comprising forming channels in the fin portion that optimize water flow past the fin portion.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0013] A more complete understanding of the present invention may be derived by referring to the detailed description when considered in connection with the following illustrative figures. In the figures, like reference numbers refer to like elements or acts throughout the figures.

[0014] FIG. 1 shows front isometric view of a walkable fin flipper in its locked position in accordance to one or more embodiments;

[0015] FIG. 2 shows front isometric view of a walkable fin flipper in its open position in accordance to one or more embodiments;

[0016] FIG. 3 shows front isometric view of a walkable fin flipper with the flipper portion moving into a second position in accordance to one or more embodiments;

[0017] FIG. 4 shows bottom isometric view of a walkable fin flipper in accordance to one or more embodiments;

[0018] FIG. 5 shows bottom view of a walkable fin flipper in accordance to one or more embodiments;

[0019] FIG. 6 shows side view of a walkable fin flipper in accordance to one or more embodiments;

[0020] FIG. 7 shows back view of a walkable fin flipper in its second position in accordance to one or more embodiments;

[0021] FIG. 8 shows isometric view of a walkable fin flipper in its second position in accordance to one or more embodiments;

[0022] FIG. 9 shows bottom isometric view of a walkable fin flipper in its second position in accordance to one or more embodiments;

[0023] FIG. 10 shows isometric view of a walkable fin flipper omitting the fin portion in accordance to one or more embodiments;

[0024] FIG. 11 shows top view of a walkable fin flipper omitting the fin portion in accordance to one or more embodiments; and

[0025] FIG. 12 shows front view of another embodiment of a walkable fin flipper in accordance to one or more embodiments.

[0026] Elements and acts in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and have not necessarily been rendered according to any particular sequence or embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0027] In the following description, and for the purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the various aspects of the invention. It will be understood, however, by those skilled in the relevant arts, that the present invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, known structures and devices are shown or discussed more generally to avoid obscuring the invention. It should be noted that there are many different and alternative configurations, devices, and technologies to which the disclosed inventions may be applied. The full scope of the inventions is not limited to the examples that are described below.

[0028] Referring to FIG. 1-5, a walkable swimming flipper is shown generally at 10. The swimming flipper comprises a foot portion 12 and a fin portion 50. The foot portion 12 can include a foot pocket 14 and can have has a first side 16 and a second side 18. The first side 16 can be equipped with a first pivot joint 36, and the second side 18 is equipped with a second pivot joint 38. The first pivot joint 36 and the second pivot joint 38 can be such as, for example, hinge joint, ball and socket joint, pivot bearing, universal joint, or any other suitable rotational coupling mechanism that permits controlled rotation of the fin portion 50 relative to the foot portion 12. The pivot joints 36, 38 may be integrally formed with the foot portion 12 during manufacturing, or alternatively, may be separately fabricated and subsequently attached or coupled to the foot portion 12 by suitable means, such as, for example, adhesive, fasteners, rivets, welding, or other appropriate joining techniques.

[0029] The foot pocket 14 can be contoured to conform to the shape of the user's foot allowing for a secure and comfortable fit within the foot pocket. This anatomical contouring distributes pressure evenly across the foot surface, minimizing localized stress points that could cause discomfort during prolonged use. The foot pocket 14 can have at least one ventilation hole or perforations strategically positioned to allow water to drain from the foot pocket, thereby reducing hydrodynamic drag during swimming and maintaining user comfort by preventing water accumulation within the foot pocket. These ventilation holes 25 may vary in size, shape, and distribution pattern to optimize water flow while maintaining structural integrity of the foot portion 12.

[0030] The foot portion 12 is manufactured from a resilient and durable material, such as rubber, silicone, thermoplastic elastomers, thermoplastic polyurethanes, or any combination thereof. The selected material provides the necessary flexibility and elasticity to accommodate various foot sizes and shapes while maintaining sufficient structural integrity to withstand the forces experienced during swimming and walking activities. Additionally, the material composition is specifically formulated to be resistant to degradation from prolonged exposure to water, chlorine and other pool chemicals, saltwater, and ultraviolet (UV) radiation, thereby extending the usable lifespan of the swimming flipper 10.

[0031] The foot portion 12 can have a front end 20 and a back end 22. The front end 20 can have a flipper stop 34 that extends upward from the foot portion 12 at approximately a 90-degree angle relative to the bottom surface of the foot portion or can extend horizontally from the foot portion creating a ledge for the flipper portion to mate up against. The flipper stop 34 can be configured to engage with a corresponding portion of the fin portion 50 when the fin portion is rotated to the second position (walking position), thereby providing a mechanical stop that prevents over-rotation of the fin portion 50 and providing support for the fin portion in the walking position. The flipper stop 34 can be integrally formed with the foot portion 12 and constructed from the same material or, alternatively, may be formed from a more rigid material to enhance durability at this high-stress interface point. The back end 22 of the foot portion 12 includes a foot extension 46 that extends beyond the heel region of the foot pocket 14. This foot extension 46 provides additional structural support and stability during both walking and swimming activities. The foot extension 46 can incorporate reinforcing structures to enhance its rigidity and durability.

[0032] In embodiments, the first side 16 and the second side 18 of the foot portion 12 can be equipped with a first buckle 40 and a second buckle 42, respectively. These buckles are securely attached to their respective sides of the foot portion 12 and are configured to receive and adjustably couple with a heel strap. The heel strap can be designed to wrap around the user's ankle, securing the foot within the foot pocket 14 and preventing inadvertent removal of the swimming flipper 10 during use. The buckles 40, 42 can incorporate adjustment mechanisms that allow the user to customize the tension of the heel strap to accommodate various ankle circumferences and to achieve the desired level of security. The heel strap can be fabricated from a flexible yet durable material that provides sufficient elasticity for comfort while maintaining the structural integrity necessary for secure attachment. The material of the heel strap can also be selected for its resistance to degradation from water exposure and UV radiation.

[0033] In embodiments, the fin portion 50 can include a fin tip 52 at its distal end and a fin base 54 at its proximal end. The fin portion 50 can be equipped with a first support 56 having a first hinge 58 and a second support 60 having a second hinge 62. The first hinge 58 can be rotatably coupled to the first pivot joint 36 of the foot portion 12, and the second hinge 62 can be rotatably coupled to the second pivot joint 38 of the foot portion 12. This rotatable coupling arrangement enables the fin portion 50 to rotate relative to the foot portion 12 between a first position (swimming position) where the fin portion extends forward from the foot portion, as shown in FIG. 1, and a second position (walking position) where the fin portion is rotated upward to allow the user to walk comfortably, as shown in FIG. 7.

[0034] The fin portion 50 can include a blade portion 64 positioned between the first support 56 and the second support 60. The blade portion 64 constitutes the primary propulsive surface of the fin portion 50 during swimming activities. To enhance the structural integrity and hydrodynamic performance of the blade portion 64, at least one vertical rib 66 extends substantially from the fin base 54 to the fin tip 52. These vertical ribs 66 provide rigidity to the blade portion 64, preventing excessive flexing during swimming strokes while maintaining appropriate compliance for efficient energy transfer. The vertical ribs 66 may vary in number, spacing, height, and cross-sectional profile to achieve desired performance characteristics. The blade portion 64 can include a locking hole 70 positioned substantially near the fin base 54. The locking hole 70 can be configured to receive a locking mechanism 32 component to secure the fin portion 50 in the first position (swimming position).

[0035] In certain embodiments, the fin portion 50 can incorporate a series of channels strategically designed and positioned to optimize water flow past the flipper during swimming activities. These channels can be grooves, tunnels, or perforations that direct water flow in a manner that maximizes propulsive force while minimizing drag. The specific geometry, dimensions, and arrangement of these channels can be based on hydrodynamic principles to enhance swimming efficiency and reduce user fatigue.

[0036] In embodiments, the fin portion 50 can be manufactured from a material that provides an optimal balance of rigidity and flexibility for swimming propulsion, wherein the material can be the same as or different from that used for the foot portion 12, depending on the specific performance requirements. The fin portion 50 can be such as, for example, thermoplastic polymers, fiber-reinforced composites, elastomeric compounds, or the like that provide the necessary mechanical properties while resisting degradation from environmental factors.

[0037] In embodiments, the flipper stop 34 can extend from the front side 16 and the flipper stop can have a locking mechanism 32 integral or coupled to it. In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, the locking mechanism 32 can comprise a knob that is rotatably mounted to the side of the foot portion 12. The knob 45 can be mechanically coupled to a tab 44 such that when the knob is twisted from an unlocked position to a locked position, the knob and partial portion of the tab can be inserted into the locking hole 70 of the blade portion 64, thereby securing the fin portion 50 in the first position. The knob 45 can incorporate tactile or visual indicators to clearly denote the locked and unlocked states. This locking mechanism 32 ensures that the fin portion 50 remains in the first position during use, preventing unintended rotation that could compromise performance or safety. The flipper stop 34 can support the flipper portion 50 from rotating down when it is in its the a first position (swimming position). The flipper stop 34 can be integral or coupled to the foot portion 12 wherein the flipper stop can be the substantially same shape as an fin base 54 of the flipper portion.

[0038] In another embodiment, the lock mechanism 32 can be implemented as a flange that can engage with a corresponding recess or protrusion on the fin portion 50 to secure it in the first position. Various other locking mechanisms can be employed, including but not limited to such as, for example, magnets (as shown in FIG. 12), spring-loaded pins, cam locks, sliding bolts, or the like depending on specific design requirements and manufacturing considerations. The materials used for the locking mechanism 32 components are selected for their durability, corrosion resistance, and reliable mechanical performance in aquatic environments. These components may be fabricated from marine-grade stainless steel, high-performance polymers, or composite materials that provide the necessary structural integrity and longevity. The locking mechanism 32 can be designed to be easily operable with one hand, even when wet, allowing users to quickly and conveniently transition between swimming and walking modes as needed. In other embodiments, the locking mechanism 32 can include to prevent accidental disengagement during use, incorporating safety features such as detents, friction elements, or secondary locking features as appropriate.

[0039] In embodiments, the walkable swimming flipper 10 can have at least one flange 28 that is integrally formed with at least one side of the foot portion 12. The flange 28 serves as an additional or alternative locking mechanism for securing the fin portion 50 in the second position (walking position), thereby providing enhanced stability and security during terrestrial locomotion. The flange 28 can extend outwardly from the lateral surface of the first side 16 and/or the second side 18 of the foot portion 12. The flange 28 can be strategically positioned to align with a corresponding receptacle 72 formed between the flange and a second flange 29 wherein the first support 56 and the second support 58 can be positioned between the flange and the second flange when in the second position. In preferred embodiments, the flange 28 and the second flange 29 can be formed on both the first side 16 and the second side 18 of the foot portion 12 to provide symmetrical engagement with corresponding receptacles on both sides of the fin portion 50, thereby distributing locking forces evenly across the structure. The flange 28 and the second flange 29 can be substantially wedge-shaped profile, or in other embodiments any other suitable shapes, featuring a ramped leading edge and a substantially vertical trailing edge. This geometric configuration facilitates automatic engagement when the fin portion 50 is rotated to the second position, as the ramped leading edge can guide the flange 28 into the receptacle, culminating in a secure engagement when the vertical trailing edge seats against a complementary surface within the receptacle.

[0040] The flange 28 and the second flange 29 can be integrally formed with the foot portion 12 during the manufacturing process, utilizing the same material composition as the foot portion or, alternatively, may incorporate a more rigid material to enhance durability and structural integrity at this critical interface point. The integration of the flange 28 and the second flange 29 with the foot portion 12 eliminates potential failure points that might occur with separately attached components, thereby enhancing the overall reliability of the locking mechanism.

[0041] In other embodiment, the flange 28 or first side can incorporate a spring-loaded mechanism that biases the flange toward an engaged position. This spring-loaded configuration ensures positive engagement with the receptacle even when subjected to varying loads or vibrations during walking activities. The spring mechanism can be adjusted during manufacturing to provide the optimal balance between secure engagement and ease of disengagement when transitioning back to the swimming position. The receptacle 72 formed in the fin portion 50 can be specifically configured to complement the geometric profile of the flange featuring an entry channel that accommodates the ramped leading edge and a locking recess that securely captures the vertical trailing edge of the flange. The dimensional tolerances between the flange 28 and the receptacle are precisely controlled during manufacturing to ensure secure engagement while preventing binding or excessive wear over repeated use cycles. In certain embodiments, the fin portion 50 can be held in the second position by such as, for example, the first support 56 and the second support 58 can have detents and the first side 16 and the second side 18 can have opposing detents to keep in vertical position, magnets, buttons, pins, rotating tabs, or the like.

[0042] In embodiments, to disengage the flange 28 from the receptacle 72 when transitioning from the walking position to the swimming position, the user applies sufficient rotational force to the fin portion 50 to overcome the mechanical interference between the flange and the receptacle. In other embodiments incorporating the spring-loaded mechanism, a release button may be provided to temporarily retract the flange 28, allowing for easier disengagement and transition between positions. The flange 28 may be used in conjunction with other locking mechanisms 32 described herein, such as the knob and tab arrangement, to provide redundant security for the fin portion 50 in the second position. Alternatively, the flange 28 may serve as the sole locking mechanism in simplified embodiments of the walkable swimming flipper 10, reducing manufacturing complexity and cost while maintaining essential functionality. The external surface of the flange 28 may incorporate visual indicators, such as raised symbols, color coding, or tactile patterns, to facilitate user identification of the locking mechanism, particularly in low-visibility conditions often encountered in aquatic environments. These indicators provide intuitive guidance for proper operation of the mechanism, enhancing user experience and safety. The materials selected for the flange 28 and corresponding receptacle are specifically formulated to maintain dimensional stability and mechanical properties when subjected to repeated wet-dry cycles, temperature variations, and exposure to chlorinated or salt water. Advanced polymer composites or marine-grade engineering plastics may be utilized to enhance durability while reducing the potential for corrosion or degradation in these challenging environmental conditions. Through this flange-based locking mechanism, the walkable swimming flipper 10 provides users with a reliable, intuitive, and durable means of securing the fin portion 50 in the walking position, enhancing safety and convenience during terrestrial mobility while maintaining excellent hydrodynamic performance during aquatic activities.

[0043] A method is also provided for providing a walkable swimming flipper. The manufacturing of a walkable swimming flipper begins with the preparation of two main components: the foot portion 12 and the fin portion 50. These two pieces are rotatably coupled together, creating a mechanism that allows the fin portion to move between a swimming position and a walking position. To ensure the fin 50 remains secure during use, at least one locking mechanism 32 is attached to the foot portion 12, which can selectively lock the fin in either position as needed.

[0044] The fin portion 50 is constructed with a blade 64 that may be formed with supports that provide structural integrity. The support may be at least one vertical rib 66 formed along substantially the entire length of the blade 64, enhancing rigidity while maintaining appropriate flexibility for swimming performance. Near the base of the fin 50 where it connects to the foot portion 12, a locking hole 70 is created to interface with the locking mechanism 32. On the front end 20 of the foot portion, a flipper stop 34 can be couple to or integral to the front end which can serve to support and prevent over-rotation of the fin when it's positioned for swimming. A foot extension 46 may also be added to the back end 22 of the foot portion 12 to provide additional support for the user's foot.

[0045] The locking mechanism 32 may include a twistable knob that, when rotated from an unlocked to a locked position, inserts a tab into the locking hole near the fin base, securing the fin in the desired position. For user comfort and fit, the foot portion 12 is equipped with two buckles 40, 42 that allow a heel strap to be adjusted to accommodate different foot sizes. Finally, to optimize swimming performance, channels are formed within the fin portion to enhance water flow around the fin, improving hydrodynamics and propulsion efficiency. This comprehensive manufacturing process results in a versatile swimming flipper that allows users to efficiently transition between swimming and walking without removing the flippers.

[0046] In closing, it is to be understood that although aspects of the present specification are highlighted by referring to specific embodiments, one skilled in the art will readily appreciate that these disclosed embodiments are only illustrative of the principles of the subject matter disclosed herein. Therefore, it should be understood that the disclosed subject matter is in no way limited to a particular methodology, protocol, and/or reagent, etc., described herein. As such, various modifications or changes to or alternative configurations of the disclosed subject matter can be made in accordance with the teachings herein without departing from the spirit of the present specification. Lastly, the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure, which is defined solely by the claims. Accordingly, embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to those precisely as shown and described.

[0047] Certain embodiments are described herein, including the best mode known to the inventors for carrying out the methods and devices described herein. Of course, variations on these described embodiments will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading the foregoing description. Accordingly, this disclosure includes all modifications and equivalents of the subject matter recited in the claims appended hereto as permitted by applicable law. Moreover, any combination of the above-described embodiments in all possible variations thereof is encompassed by the disclosure unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.