Articulated steerable sled

Abstract

This invention overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art by providing an articulated, multi-segment sled body having, on each segment, a pair of runners each having opposing convex side edges. These convex side edges allow turning to occur on each of the appropriate inside and outside edges of opposite runners in each segment with the rider leaning into the turn, rather than away from it. A detachable and flexible joint connector is provided between each segment. This connector allows (with respect to a sled longitudinal axis) both yaw-direction rotation between segments as well as axial roll-direction rotation between segments (e.g., two-axis rotation) so as to provide the rider better control and more conformance over bumps and uneven terrain. In an illustrative embodiment, the runners of each segment include a gently sloped (relatively low angle relative to the ground) leading end. The front segment, along its top, also includes a pair of T-shaped handles for better grip and steering control. The bottom sliding surface of each of the runners can be provided with one or more a molded-in, metal edges that provide further strength, stiffness and carving ability on hard-packed snow and ice. The connectors include a relatively thin web joining opposing cylindrical ends in the manner of a “dog bone” shape.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.