You can freely build on How Modern Rollerblades Became Adjustable and Interchangeable
This patent expired in 2002. Every claim — 0 independent, 0 dependent — is now unenforceable. Anyone can use, reproduce, manufacture, sell, or offer for sale this technology without a license.
Original assignee
Individual
Patent granted
1985
Expired
2002
Forward citations
46
What this patent covers
This patent describes a mechanical mounting system that attaches a wheel or blade assembly to the bottom of a boot. The system uses an elongate channel built into a frame, which is fixed to the boot's sole. The wheel or blade assembly slides into this channel and is held in place by a close-fitting mechanical interface, specifically using projections on the assembly that lock into recesses within the frame's side walls. A manually operable fastener then secures the assembly at a specific longitudinal position, allowing the skater to shift the wheels or blades forward or backward to suit their skating style.
What is now free to use
All 0 claims of US 4492385 are in the public domain. Specifically:
The 0 dependent claims add narrowing limitations and are also free.
What is NOT covered
Patent expiry frees this specific invention. Separately-patented improvements made after expiry may still be protected.
Does not cover skates where the wheels are permanently riveted or molded directly into the boot sole.
Does not cover non-adjustable wheel frames that lack the longitudinal displacement mechanism.
Does not cover ice skates that use a traditional screw-in mounting plate without the described channel-and-projection locking system.
Who is building on this today
The technology was popularized by Scott Olson, who founded the Rollerblade company. Today, major manufacturers like K2 Sports and Powerslide continue to refine these modular frame attachment systems for both recreational and professional speed skating.
Products built on expired version of this technology
Early Rollerblade brand inline skates
Convertible ice-to-inline skate systems
Performance inline skates with adjustable frame positioning
How to cite this patent in your documentation
Individual. US Patent 4492385. Skate having an adjustable blade or wheel assembly. Granted 1985, expired 2002. Now in the public domain.
Note: This is a convenience citation. Consult a patent attorney for formal freedom-to-operate analysis.
PatentBrief is an educational resource and does not provide legal advice. Patent expiration information is derived from USPTO records and may not reflect continuation patents, divisional filings, or separately-patented improvements. For commercial use or production decisions, obtain a formal freedom-to-operate (FTO) opinion from a registered patent attorney.