Cushioning medallions, methods of making and methods of using

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to cushioning medallions, methods of making and methods of using, particularly cushioning medallions comprising a relatively low durometer viscoelastic polymer gel, for use on a bicycle seat.

Description

RELATED CASES[0001]The present application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Nos. 60 / 923,294 and 60 / 923,295, both of which were filed on Apr. 13, 2007, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD[0002]The present disclosure relates to cushioning medallions, methods of making and methods of using, and in particular, to bicycle seats including the medallions.BACKGROUND[0003]Patent and non-patent literature is replete with efforts to make bicycle seats as light and comfortable as possible, which is particularly important due to the nature and use of these seats. The comfort of a bicycle seat is at least in part a function of its shape and of the materials from which it is made. Often the addition of shock absorbing materials such as gels and foams to a seat can adversely affect its shape and weight. The lightest and sleekest seats tend to offer cyclists the least amount of cushioning and vibration absorption.[0004]In many cases, af...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

Often the addition of shock absorbing materials such as gels and foams to a seat can adversely affect its shape and weight.

In many cases, after the purchase of a bicycle seat, cyclists find that the seat is not sufficiently cushioned, or is in some other way uncomfortable.

There are many examples of bicycle seats with different designs, shapes, and cushioning, but surprisingly few options for a cyclist that would like to add additional cushioning to an existing seat.

Because add-on seat covers may cover the entire top surface of the bicycle seat, they are generally fairly bulky and interfere with the sleek aesthetics that many cyclists find desirable.

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