Surfboard fin box with detachable, leashed fin

Abstract

A new design for a self-releasing surfboard fin and box is presented. The fin is held in the fin box by an attachment means that permits the fin to release easily when struck. The fin is retained connected to the box and the board by means of a fin leash. The fin is easily reattached by inserting the fin and then re-tightening the attachment means.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0001] This invention relates to surfboard fins and fin boxes, where multiple fins at the aft end of the board are used for directional control and stability. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] Typical surfboard fin systems consist of a fin box inserted into the surface of the surfboard at its aft end on the underside of the board plus a surfboard fin that is inserted into the box and held fixedly. When a fin breaks or is damaged, the fin can be removed from the box by means of unscrewing screws or unloosening some other attachment device, removing the broken fin, and replacing it with a new one. The same attachment devices are then re-tightened or reattached and the board can be used once again. [0003] U.S. Pat. No. 5,133,681 by Lobe teaches a sailboard fin system with a leash connecting the fin to the fin box. However, the sailboard fin box is a through-the-board system unlike surfboard systems and the fin attachment mechanism is designed to break selectivel...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0005] The present invention consists of a new design for a surfboard fin box and fin that allows the fin to be connected to the box by means of a leash. The present invention also possesses adjustable attachment devices in the box that permit the surfboard rider to insert the fin into the box and control the amount of retentive friction exerted on the fin by the box. The adjustable attachment devices will release the fin when an underwater obstruction is encountered and the leash will retain the fin connected to the fin box, and thus to the board. A surfer can re-attach the fin to the box by use of a simple attachment device adjustment tool, such as a hex wrench, even in the water. None of the components of the box or the fin system are destroyed to permit the fin to break loose, so the system can be re-used without purchasing and replacing parts.

[0006] It is an object of this invention to provide a surfboard box and fin system that is easy to use and maintain.

[0008] It is a further object of this invention to provide a fin that allows the storage of the leash directly under the fin.

[0009] It is a further object of this invention to make the shape of the fin end that is inserted in the box such that the fin will release easily when struck from front or back, without any component of the fin or the box breaking.

Problems solved by technology

However, the sailboard fin box is a through-the-board system unlike surfboard systems and the fin attachment mechanism is designed to break selectively to prevent damage to the fin from striking underwater objects.

Images