U.S. patent application number 11/479124 was filed with the patent office on 2007-01-25 for method and system for adjusting the height of a trampoline.
Invention is credited to Richard B. Slade.
Application Number | 20070021272 11/479124 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 37679805 |
Filed Date | 2007-01-25 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070021272 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Slade; Richard B. |
January 25, 2007 |
Method and system for adjusting the height of a trampoline
Abstract
A height adjustment device configured to adjust the height of a
jumping mat of a trampoline with respect to a support surface, as
well as a method for the same. The height adjustment device may
comprise a first support configured to interface and join with a
portion of a frame of a trampoline that supports the jumping mat; a
second support operable with the first support and configured to
interface and join with a portion of a leg of the trampoline in
contact with the support surface and that supports the frame; and
an adjustment configuration configured to facilitate the adjustment
of the first support relative to the second support, and thus the
height of the jumping mat of the trampoline. The height adjustment
device may also comprise a u-shaped leg operable with a similar
first support, wherein the u-shaped leg is designed to completely
replace an existing leg of the trampoline. The adjustment of the
height adjustment device may be carried out using any one of a
plurality of different methods or configurations specifically
designed to facilitate the quick and easy adjustment of the jumping
mat to one of a plurality of adjustment positions or heights.
Inventors: |
Slade; Richard B.; (Provo,
UT) |
Correspondence
Address: |
THORPE NORTH & WESTERN, LLP.
8180 SOUTH 700 EAST, SUITE 200
SANDY
UT
84070
US
|
Family ID: |
37679805 |
Appl. No.: |
11/479124 |
Filed: |
June 30, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60696614 |
Jul 5, 2005 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
482/27 ;
482/29 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 5/11 20130101; A63B
21/023 20130101; A63B 2225/093 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/027 ;
482/029 |
International
Class: |
A63B 5/11 20060101
A63B005/11 |
Claims
1. An intermediate height adjustment device configured to adjust a
height of a jumping mat of a trampoline with respect to a support
surface, said intermediate height adjustment device comprising: a
first support configured to interface and join with a portion of a
frame of a trampoline that supports said jumping mat; a second
support operable with said first support and configured to
interface and join with a portion of a leg of said trampoline in
contact with said support surface and that supports said frame; and
an adjustment configuration configured to facilitate the adjustment
of said first support relative to said second support, and thus at
least a portion of said height of said jumping mat of said
trampoline.
2. The intermediate height adjustment device of claim 1, wherein
said first and second supports are configured to releasably couple
to said frame and said leg of said trampoline, respectively.
3. The intermediate height adjustment device of claim 1, wherein
said first and second supports are universal and configured to be
interchangeable and used on different types of trampolines, thus
making said intermediate height adjustment device universal and
interchangeable with said different types of trampolines.
4. The intermediate height adjustment device of claim 1, further
comprising an adapter having a first end configured to interface
and join with a portion of a frame of a second trampoline, and a
second end configured to interface and join with said first
support, said adapter being configured for use with said first
support to enable said first support to be operable with said
second trampoline.
5. The intermediate height adjustment device of claim 1, further
comprising an adapter having a first end configured to interface
and join with said second support, and a second end configured to
interface and join with a portion of a leg of a second trampoline,
said adapter being configured for use with said second support to
enable said second support to be operable with said second
trampoline.
6. The intermediate height adjustment device of claim 1, wherein
said portion of said frame comprises a sleeve having a cylindrical
configuration and extending in a downward direction from said
frame.
7. The intermediate height adjustment device of claim 6, wherein
said first support comprises a cylindrical configuration, and
wherein at least a portion of said first support comprises a
diameter less than a diameter of said sleeve, thus enabling said
portion of said first support to fit within said sleeve for
support.
8. The intermediate height adjustment device of claim 7, wherein
said portion of said first support, having said diameter less than
said diameter of said sleeve, comprises a tapered configuration
configured to enable said first support to interface and join with
sleeves of different sizes.
9. The intermediate height adjustment device of claim 1, wherein
said leg comprises a unshaped leg having first and second vertical
extensions and a horizontal ground support portion extending
therebetween, wherein said second support interfaces and joins with
one of said first and second vertical extensions.
10. The intermediate height adjustment device of claim 9, wherein
said portion of said leg comprises one of said vertical extensions,
and wherein said vertical extensions comprise a cylindrical
configuration.
11. The intermediate height adjustment device of claim 10, wherein
said second support comprises a cylindrical configuration, and
wherein at least a portion of said second support comprises a
diameter greater than a diameter of said vertical extension, thus
enabling said vertical extension to fit within and support said
second support.
12. The intermediate height adjustment device of claim 1, wherein
said first support is slidably related with said second
support.
13. The intermediate height adjustment device of claim 12, wherein
said adjustment configuration comprises: at least one adjustment
aperture formed in said first support; at least one adjustment
aperture formed in said second support and configured to correspond
to and align with said adjustment apertures formed in said first
support, upon sliding said second support with respect with said
first support, to provide a plurality of selectable adjustment
positions; and a fastener configured to be inserted through said
adjustment apertures of said first and second supports when aligned
to secure said first and second supports in one of said plurality
of adjustment positions.
14. The intermediate height adjustment device of claim 13, wherein
said first and second supports collapse about one another to
provide a lowermost adjustment position.
15. The intermediate height adjustment device of claim 14, wherein
a portion of said frame is caused to rest upon a rim of said second
support when said first and second supports are collapsed about one
another in said lowermost adjustment position.
16. The intermediate height adjustment device of claim 14, wherein
said first and second supports comprise different lengths to
increase the stability of said intermediate height adjustment
device in said adjustment positions.
17. The intermediate height adjustment device of claim 1, wherein
said first support comprises a lip, and wherein said portion of
said frame is configured to rest upon said lip when said first
support is joined with said portion of said frame.
18. The intermediate height adjustment device of claim 1, wherein
at least a portion of said second support comprises a tapered
segment configured to increase the stability and support of said
second support as interfaced and joined with said portion of said
leg, said tapered segment terminating in a rim configured to engage
and rest upon a lip of said portion of said leg.
19. The intermediate height adjustment device of claim 4, wherein
said adjustment configuration comprises: at least one adjustment
aperture formed in said adapter; at least one adjustment aperture
formed in said first support and configured to correspond to and
align with at least one of said adjustment apertures formed in said
adapter to provide a plurality of selectable adjustment positions;
at least one aperture formed in said second support and configured
to correspond to and align with at least one of said adjustment
apertures formed in said first support to provide a plurality of
selectable adjustment positions; and a plurality of fasteners
configured to be inserted through said adjustment apertures of said
adapter and said first and second supports when aligned to secure
said adapter and said first and second supports in one of said
plurality of adjustment positions.
20. The intermediate height adjustment device of claim 19, wherein
said adapter comprises a two stage cylindrical configuration, with
a first stage comprising a diameter to allow said first stage to
fit over a downward extending sleeve of a frame of a trampoline and
a second stage comprising a diameter to receive a portion of said
first support.
21. The intermediate height adjustment device of claim 20, wherein
said adapter further comprises at least three apertures formed
within said first stage at an equidistance around said first stage,
said apertures being configured to receive securing fasteners
therein, wherein each of said securing fasteners are caused to
adjustably engage said vertical sleeve to secure said adapter to
said vertical sleeve.
22. The intermediate height adjustment device of claim 9, wherein
said horizontal ground support further comprises a length
adjustment configuration operable therewith and configured to
facilitate the adjustability of a length of said horizontal ground
support, thereby enabling said u-shaped leg and said first support
to be operable with different trampolines having corresponding
sleeve components of different distances from one another.
23. The intermediate height adjustment device of claim 1, wherein
said adjustment configuration comprises: a thread configuration
formed on at least a portion of an outer surface of said first
support; and a thread configuration formed on at least a portion of
an inner surface of said second support operable with said thread
configuration on said first support to facilitate the rotatable
adjustment of said first support with respect to said second
support into one of a plurality of adjustment positions.
24. The intermediate height adjustment device of claim 1, wherein
said adjustment configuration comprises: a compression member
operable with said second support to apply a compression force to
said first support, thereby securing said first and second supports
in one of a plurality of adjustment positions.
25. The intermediate height adjustment device of claim 24, wherein
said compression member comprises a quick-release system.
26. A height adjustment device configured to adjust the height of a
jumping mat of a trampoline with respect to a support surface, said
height adjustment device comprising: a first support configured to
interface and join with a portion of a frame of a trampoline, said
frame configured to support said jumping mat; a u-shaped leg
operable with said first support to adjustably support said frame
of said trampoline about said support surface, said u-shaped leg
comprising first and second vertical extensions and a horizontal
ground support portion extending therebetween; and an adjustment
configuration configured to facilitate the adjustment of said first
support relative to said u-shaped leg, and thus at least a portion
of said height of said jumping mat of said trampoline.
27. The height adjustment device of clam 26, wherein said
adjustment configuration comprises: at least one adjustment
apertures formed in said first support; at least one adjustment
aperture formed in said u-shaped leg and configured to correspond
to and align with said adjustment apertures formed in said first
support, upon sliding said u-shaped leg with respect with said
first support, to provide a plurality of selectable adjustment
positions; and a fastener configured to be inserted through said
adjustment apertures of said first support and said u-shaped leg
when aligned to secure said first support and said u-shaped leg in
one of said plurality of adjustment positions.
28. The height adjustment device of claim 26, further comprising an
adapter configure to facilitate the coupling of said first support
and said u-shaped leg to a second trampoline.
29. The height adjustment device of claim 26, wherein said
horizontal ground support further comprises a length adjustment
configuration operable therewith and configured to facilitate the
adjustability of a length of said horizontal ground support,
thereby enabling said u-shaped leg and said first support to be
operable with different trampolines having corresponding sleeve
components of different distances from one another.
30. The height adjustment device of claim 29, wherein said length
adjustment configuration comprises: a collar slidably disposed
about and supporting first and second horizontal components of said
horizontal ground support; and a plurality of selectable adjustment
positions between said collar and said first and second horizontal
components.
31. A height adjustment device configured to adjust the height of a
jumping mat of a trampoline with respect to a support surface, said
intermediate height adjustment device comprising: means for
interfacing and joining with a portion of a frame of a trampoline,
said frame configured to support said jumping mat; means for
interfacing and joining with a portion of a leg of a trampoline
configured to support said frame above said support surface; and
means for adjusting said means for interfacing and joining with
respect to one another to adjust a height of at least a portion of
said frame and said jumping mat with respect to said support
surface.
32. The height adjustment device of claim 31, further comprising
means for interchanging said means for interfacing and joining with
said portion of said frame and said portion of said leg,
respectively, for use on one of a second trampoline.
33. The height adjustment device of claim 32, wherein said second
trampoline is of a different type.
34. The height adjustment device of claim 31, wherein said means
for adjusting comprises a series of lockable telescoping elements
operably supported together, and configured to collapse on one
another to achieve a desired height of said jumping mat.
35. A trampoline system configured to provide a jumping mat of a
trampoline with a plurality of different jumping heights, said
trampoline system comprising: a trampoline comprising: a jumping
mat; a frame configured to support said jumping mat, said frame
comprising a closed loop horizontal frame assembly and a plurality
of sleeves extending downward from said closed loop horizontal
frame assembly; a plurality of biasing means configured to couple
said jumping mat to said frame in a biased manner; at least one
u-shaped leg configured to support said frame and said jumping mat
about said support surface, said u-shaped leg comprising first and
second vertical supports and a horizontal ground support extending
therebetween, said first and second vertical supports each being
configured to releasably join to one of said plurality of sleeves;
and a height adjustment device configured to interface and join
with a portion of said frame and a portion of said u-shaped leg to
adjust a height of at least a portion of said jumping mat with
respect to said support surface.
36. The trampoline system of claim 35, wherein said height
adjustment device comprises: a first support configured to
interface and join with one of said sleeves of said frame; a second
support operable with said first support and configured to
interface and join with a portion of said u-shaped leg; and an
adjustment configuration configured to facilitate the adjustment of
said first support relative to said second support, and thus the
height of said jumping mat of said trampoline.
37. The trampoline system of claim 35, wherein said height
adjustment device comprises: a first support operable with said
u-shaped leg and configured to interface and join with one of said
sleeves of said frame; and an adjustment configuration configured
to facilitate the adjustment of said first support relative to said
u-shaped leg, and thus the height of said jumping mat of said
trampoline.
38. A method for adjusting at least a portion of a height of a
jumping mat of a trampoline, said method comprising: obtaining a
trampoline having a frame supporting a jumping mat and a plurality
of legs supporting said frame about a support surface; replacing at
least a portion of at least one of said legs with a height
adjustment device configured to interface and join with a portion
of said frame and a portion of said leg to adjust said height of at
least a portion of said jumping mat and said trampoline with
respect to said support surface; and adjusting said height
adjustment device to adjust said height of at least a portion of
said jumping mat and said trampoline to one of a plurality of
heights.
39. The method of claim 38, wherein said replacing comprises:
joining a first support to a portion of said frame; and joining a
second support to a portion of one of said plurality of legs, said
second support being adjustable with respect to said first
support.
40. The method of claim 39, wherein said adjusting comprises
adjusting said first support with respect to said second support
via an adjustment configuration.
41. The method of claim 38, wherein said replacing comprises:
joining a first support to a portion of said frame; and joining a
u-shaped leg with said first support to replace all of one of said
plurality of legs, said u-shaped leg comprising first and second
vertical extensions and a horizontal ground support portion
extending therebetween, said u-shaped leg being configured to
adjustably support said frame of said trampoline about said support
surface;
42. The method of claim 41, wherein said adjusting comprises
adjusting said first support with respect to said u-shaped leg via
and adjustment configuration.
43. The method of claim 38, further comprising interchanging at
least a portion of a leg of another trampoline with said height
adjustment device.
44. The method of claim 38, further comprising adjusting said
height adjustment device to enable a leg to which said height
adjustment device is attached to to comprise a different height
than at least one other leg assembly of said trampoline, thereby
introducing a leveling function to said trampoline in the event of
an uneven support surface.
45. A method for adjusting a height of at least a portion of a
jumping mat of a trampoline with respect to a support surface, said
method comprising: providing a height adjustment device configured
for use with an existing trampoline; facilitating the replacement
of at least a portion of a leg of a trampoline with said height
adjustment device; and facilitating the selective adjustment of
said height adjustment device to adjust said height of at least a
portion of said jumping mat to one of a plurality of heights.
46. The method of claim 45, further comprising facilitating the
interchangeability of said height adjustment device with another
trampoline.
47. A system for adjusting the height of a jumping mat of a
trampoline with respect to a support surface, said system
comprising: at least one interchangeable support, each having a
fixed, pre-determined length corresponding to a desired height, and
each being configured to replace a portion of an existing leg of
said trampoline and to interface and join with at least a portion
of a frame and a remaining portion of said existing leg of said
trampoline to achieve said desired height.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Application No. 60/696,614, filed Jul. 5, 2005, having a title of
"Method and System for Adjusting the Height of a Trampoline," which
application is incorporated by reference herein in its
entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to trampolines, and more
particularly to a method and system for adjusting the height of a
trampoline relative to the ground or other surface supporting the
trampoline, wherein the trampoline may be made safer and more
accommodating to younger children, and wherein the trampoline
height can be adjusted to optimally accommodate jumpers of all
sizes.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION AND RELATED ART
[0003] Since their advent, trampolines have steadily increased in
popularity. Currently, there are about 500,000 trampolines sold
each year, with most of these being intended for residential use.
Notably, the increased use of trampolines has spanned both
residential and competition settings, such that the trampoline is
now a well recognized piece of sporting or exercise equipment, in
addition to the more familiar play device found in numerous
households. Indeed, trampoline use is more than a recreational
pastime, it is a great form of aerobic exercise for athletic
training and a great way to showcase practiced skill and talent in
a competitive manner.
[0004] Despite the enjoyment and satisfaction that can be realized
from jumping on a trampoline, there are many risks involved. What
is seemingly a source of fun and way to foster competitive sport, a
trampoline can quickly become a cause of serious injury and even
death if not used properly. The increased popularity of trampolines
has unfortunately resulted in a dramatic increase in serious
injuries, including broken necks, spinal cord injuries, damage to
internal organs, and disabling head traumas, many of which result
in permanent paralysis or even death. In addition, trampolines are
responsible for many less serious injuries such as broken bones,
including legs, arms, and other parts of the body, as well as
different types of dislocations and muscle damage. To make matters
worse, the majority of these injuries occur among children under
the age of 14 who do not recognize the inherent risks associated
with jumping on a trampoline. While two-thirds of trampoline
related injuries occur on the jumping mat, a large number of
injuries are sustained while mounting and dismounting the
trampoline. This is especially true for younger children who are
smaller, and thus have a more difficult time getting on and off the
trampoline because of its height with respect to the ground or
other support surface.
[0005] The U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) reports
that roughly 80,000-100,000 people are treated each year for
injuries sustained while jumping on a trampoline or otherwise using
or attempting to use a trampoline. Accordingly, the CPSC has
recognized the need and has called for the development of safety
advancements to help reduce the number of trampoline injuries.
[0006] A typical trampoline, namely the frame and the jumping mat
supported by the frame, comprises a jumping height between 32 and
34 inches as measured from its support surface, such as the ground,
depending upon the particular make of the trampoline. This
particular Jumping height has been calculated to provide a safe
jumping experience, while still achieving good trampoline
performance. This particular jumping height has also been
determined as the most optimum height for accommodating the
greatest number of people, including children and adults, based on
both age and weight, as well as the stiffness of the springs
coupling the jumping mat to the frame. Indeed, most people can
utilize a trampoline of this height with the jumper and the jumping
mat displacing a sufficient distance without contacting the
ground.
[0007] Despite the seeming advantages of providing a trampoline
with a standard height, there are many instances where such a
standard height is excessive. One particular instance is when the
trampoline is purchased for use by children. Statistics show that
the most common practice for consumers of trampolines is to
purchase a trampoline not for themselves, but for their children.
Occasionally adults will utilize the trampoline, but the majority
of time it will be used by their children and their friends. As
such, a trampoline having a standard height between 32 and 34
inches, or rather a height to accommodate the majority of the
population, including adult jumpers, is unnecessary. More
importantly, such an unnecessary height can lead to injuries that
may otherwise be prevented or mitigated. As indicated above, among
the many accidents that occur each year from trampoline use is
children attempting to mount or dismount the trampoline. This is an
especially daunting task for children trying to mount or dismount a
trampoline having a standard height as the frame and jumping mat
can be far over their heads or beyond their stepping or even
leaping capabilities. As such, they resort to placing various
objects in close proximity to the trampoline, the most common
object being a chair, which they scale or otherwise climb onto to
assist them in mounting or dismounting of the trampoline. Such
practices lead to injuries as the child must dismount an object
being used in a way other than as intended. For example, a chair
may fall out from under the child as the child leans away from the
chair to mount the trampoline. Furthermore, injury may result from
children falling off of the trampoline, or even from their being
catapulted from the trampoline. A trampoline with a standard height
can provide an unnecessary and potentially dangerous fall for a
child.
[0008] Another disadvantage to prior related trampolines is that
they must be placed on a level surface in order to obtain a level
jumping surface, as there is no mechanism or means available to
modify the level of the jumping surface of the trampoline. As such,
uneven support surfaces, such as an uneven ground surface, will
result in the trampoline being on an undesirable incline, which may
make jumping difficult and even dangerous.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] In light of the problems and deficiencies inherent in the
prior art, the present invention seeks to overcome these by
providing a height adjustment device configured to selectively
adjust the height of a trampoline. In one embodiment, the height
adjustment device may be an intermediate height adjustment device
configured to replace a portion of an existing leg assembly and to
interface and join with an existing frame of a trampoline. In
another embodiment, the height adjustment device may replace the
leg assembly altogether.
[0010] In accordance with the invention as embodied and broadly
described herein, and in one exemplary embodiment, the present
invention features an intermediate height adjustment device
configured to adjust the height of a jumping mat of a trampoline
with respect to a support surface, the intermediate height
adjustment device comprising: (a) a first support configured to
interface and join with a portion of a frame of a trampoline that
supports the jumping mat; (b) a second support operable with the
first support and configured to interface and join with a portion
of a leg of the trampoline in contact with the support surface and
that supports the frame; and (c) an adjustment configuration
configured to facilitate the adjustment of the first support
relative to the second support, and thus the height of at least a
portion of the jumping mat of the trampoline.
[0011] In another exemplary embodiment, the present invention
features a height adjustment device configured to adjust the height
of a jumping mat of a trampoline with respect to a support surface,
the height adjustment device comprising: (a) a first support
configured to interface and join with a portion of a frame of a
trampoline that supports the jumping mat; (b) a u-shaped leg
operable with the first support to adjustably support the frame of
the trampoline about the support surface, the u-shaped leg
comprising first and second vertical extensions and a horizontal
ground support portion extending therebetween; and (c) an
adjustment configuration configured to facilitate the adjustment of
the first support relative to the u-shaped leg, and thus the height
of at least a portion of the jumping mat of the trampoline.
[0012] In yet another exemplary embodiment, the present invention
features a height adjustment device configured to adjust the height
of a jumping mat of a trampoline with respect to a support surface,
the intermediate height adjustment device comprising: (a) means for
interfacing and joining with a portion of a frame of a trampoline
configured to support the jumping mat; (b) means for interfacing
and joining with a portion of a leg of a trampoline configured to
support the frame above the support surface; and (c) means for
adjusting the means for interfacing and joining with respect to one
another to adjust a height of at least a portion of the frame and
the jumping mat with respect to the support surface.
[0013] In still another exemplary embodiment, the present invention
features a system for adjusting the height of a jumping mat of a
trampoline with respect to a support surface, the system
comprising: (a) at least one interchangeable support, wherein each
support has a fixed, pre-determined length corresponding to a
desired height, and wherein each support is configured to replace a
portion of an existing leg of the trampoline and to interface and
join with at least a portion of a frame and a remaining portion of
the existing leg of the trampoline to achieve the desired height.
Typically, two or more supports for each leg of the trampoline will
be provided, which may be selectively interchanged with one another
to achieve a variety of heights, and/or a variety of inclines or
different heights between leg assemblies, such as for leveling
purposes.
[0014] In still another exemplary embodiment, the present invention
features a trampoline system configured to provide a jumping mat
with a plurality of jumping heights comprising: (a) a trampoline
comprising: (i) a jumping mat; (ii) a frame configured to support
the jumping mat, the frame comprising a closed loop, horizontal
frame assembly and a plurality of sleeves extending downward from
the closed loop, horizontal frame assembly; (iii) a plurality of
biasing means configured to couple the jumping mat to the frame in
a biased manner; (iv) at least one u-shaped leg configured to
support the frame and the jumping mat about the support surface,
the u-shaped leg comprising first and second vertical supports and
a horizontal ground support extending therebetween, the first and
second vertical supports each being configured to releasably join
to one of the plurality of sleeves; and (b) a height adjustment
device configured to interface and join with a portion of the frame
and a portion of the u-shaped leg to adjust a height of at least a
portion of the jumping mat with respect to the support surface.
[0015] In still another exemplary embodiment, the present invention
features a method for adjusting a height of a jumping mat of a
trampoline, the method comprising: (a) obtaining a trampoline
having a frame supporting a jumping mat and a plurality of legs
supporting the frame about a support surface; (b) replacing at
least a portion of at least one of the legs with a height
adjustment device configured to interface and join with a portion
of the frame and a portion of the leg to adjust the height of at
least a portion of the jumping mat and the trampoline with respect
to the support surface; and (c) adjusting the height adjustment
device to adjust the height of at least a portion of the jumping
mat and the trampoline to one of a plurality of heights.
[0016] In still another exemplary embodiment, the present invention
still further features a method for adjusting a height of a jumping
mat of a trampoline with respect to a support surface, the method
comprising: (a) providing a height adjustment device configured for
use with an existing trampoline; (b) facilitating the replacement
of at least a portion of a leg of a trampoline with the height
adjustment device; and (c) facilitating the selective adjustment of
the height adjustment device to adjust the height of the jumping
mat to one of a plurality of heights.
[0017] The above height adjustment devices, systems, and methods
feature the ability to adjust one leg assembly (e.g., an existing
leg joined with another height adjustment device, or the complete
replacement of a leg with a height adjustment device) to one height
and a different leg assembly to another height to achieve different
heights for one or more purposes. For example, providing the
ability to adjust different legs or leg assemblies of the
trampoline to different heights, a leveling function may be
introduced to the trampoline in the event of an uneven support
surface.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0018] The present invention will become more fully apparent from
the following description and appended claims, taken in conjunction
with the accompanying drawings. Understanding that these drawings
merely depict exemplary embodiments of the present invention they
are, therefore, not to be considered limiting of its scope. It will
be readily appreciated that the components of the present
invention, as generally described and illustrated in the figures
herein, could be arranged and designed in a wide variety of
different configurations. Nonetheless, the invention will be
described and explained with additional specificity and detail
through the use of the accompanying drawings in which:
[0019] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary
trampoline comprising a plurality of height adjustment devices
operable therewith to enable selective height adjustment of the
frame and the jumping mat supported by the frame, wherein the
height adjustment devices are adjusted to provide a relatively low
adjustment position and a corresponding jumping height, and wherein
the height adjustment devices are configured according to one
exemplary embodiment of the present invention;
[0020] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of the exemplary
trampoline and plurality height adjustment devices of FIG. 1,
wherein the height adjustment devices are adjusted to provide a
relatively high adjustment position and corresponding jumping
height;
[0021] FIG. 3 illustrates a partial exploded perspective view of a
height adjustment device and adjustment configuration according to
one exemplary embodiment of the present invention;
[0022] FIG. 4 illustrates a partial perspective view of the height
adjustment device and adjustment configuration of FIG. 3 in an
assembled state and positioned in a lowermost adjustment
position;
[0023] FIG. 5 illustrates a partial perspective view of the height
adjustment device and adjustment configuration of FIG. 3 in an
assembled state and positioned in an uppermost adjustment
position;
[0024] FIG. 6 illustrates partial perspective view of an
alternative height adjustment device and adjustment configuration
similar to the one illustrated in FIG. 3, only the sleeve of the
frame and the vertical extension of the leg of the trampoline are
caused to be supported on respective fasteners or stabilizing
pins;
[0025] FIG. 7 illustrates a partial exploded perspective view of a
height adjustment device and adjustment configuration according to
another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the
height adjustment device further comprises an adapter configured to
facilitate the interchangeability of the height adjustment device
on a number of different sized trampolines;
[0026] FIG. 8 illustrates a partial perspective view of a height
adjustment device and adjustment configuration according to still
another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the
adjustment configuration comprises thread configurations formed in
each of the first and second supports of the height adjustment
device, wherein the thread configurations are configured to engage
and mate with one another to provide an infinite number of
adjustment positions and corresponding jumping heights;
[0027] FIG. 9 illustrates a partial perspective view of a height
adjustment device and adjustment configuration according to still
another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the
height adjustment device comprises a u-shaped leg configured to
replace an existing u-shaped leg and to be operable with a first
support; and
[0028] FIG. 10 illustrates a partial perspective view of a height
adjustment system according to still another exemplary embodiment
of the present invention, wherein the height adjustment system
comprises a plurality of interchangeable supports, each having a
fixed, pre-determined length corresponding to a desired height, and
each being configured to replace a portion of an existing leg of
said trampoline.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS
[0029] The following detailed description of exemplary embodiments
of the invention makes reference to the accompanying drawings,
which form a part hereof and in which are shown, by way of
illustration, exemplary embodiments in which the invention may be
practiced. While these exemplary embodiments are described in
sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice
the invention, it should be understood that other embodiments may
be realized and that various changes to the invention may be made
without departing from the spirit and scope of the present
invention. Thus, the following more detailed description of the
embodiments of the present invention, as represented in FIGS. 1
through 10 is not intended to limit the scope of the invention, as
claimed, but is presented for purposes of illustration only and not
limitation to describe the features and characteristics of the
present invention, to set forth the best mode of operation of the
invention, and to sufficiently enable one skilled in the art to
practice the invention. Accordingly, the scope of the present
invention is to be defined solely by the appended claims.
[0030] The following detailed description and exemplary embodiments
of the invention will be best understood by reference to the
accompanying drawings, wherein the elements and features of the
invention are designated by numerals throughout.
[0031] In a general sense, the present invention describes a method
and system for adjusting the height of a trampoline, and more
specifically the height of a jumping mat and supporting frame of a
trampoline using a height adjustment device or system. The height
adjustment device or system is preferably configured to selectively
adjust to a plurality of adjustment positions that enable the
trampoline, and the jumping mat, to be adjusted to a plurality of
corresponding jumping heights. Moreover, although designed to
replace all or a portion of the standard legs of the trampoline,
the height adjustment device or system is configured to provide the
necessary structural support to the frame and jumping mat of the
trampoline in a similar manner as the standard leg assembly. A more
detailed description of the height adjustment device and similar
systems is presented below.
[0032] The height adjustment feature of the present invention
provides many significant advantages over prior related
trampolines. First, the height adjustment device may operate to
eliminate many of the safety issues discussed above with respect to
the height of trampolines. For instance, the trampoline may better
accommodate children by providing an easier time of mounting and
dismounting the trampoline. Second, support surfaces supporting the
trampoline are often uneven or on an incline. Unlike prior related
trampolines, one or several portions of the trampoline utilizing
the present invention height adjustment system may be adjusted to
comprise a different height than other portions, which are
particularly useful for leveling purposes in the event the
trampoline is placed an uneven or inclined support surface.
[0033] It is noted that the advantages specifically recited herein
are not meant to be limiting in any way. Indeed, one skilled in the
art will recognize other advantages upon reading the disclosure as
presented herein, and/or practicing the present invention, each of
which are contemplated herein.
[0034] With reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, illustrated are a
perspective views of an exemplary trampoline 10 comprising a
plurality of height adjustment devices 70 configured to selectively
adjust the jumping height of the trampoline 10. The trampoline 10
may comprise any type of trampoline, such as those manufactured for
residential use, or those used in commercial or competitive
settings. As one skilled in the art will recognize, the trampoline
10 may be various configurations, such as square, round, or
octagonal. The trampoline 10 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 comprises as an
exemplary common backyard or residential trampoline. Although the
present invention is intended to be operable with different types
and sizes of trampolines, the exemplary trampoline illustrated in
FIGS. 1 and 2 will be used for discussion purposes herein. However,
it is specifically noted that the present invention is not limited
for use with this specific type and configuration of trampoline
only. Indeed, one skilled in the art will recognize that the
present invention may be used on a variety of different types and
sizes of trampolines and that those illustrated in the figures and
described herein are not intended to be limiting in any way.
[0035] The trampoline 10 comprises a frame 14 consisting of a
closed loop, horizontal frame assembly 16 and a plurality of
sleeves 30 extending downward from said frame assembly 16. Common
to most trampolines, the horizontal frame assembly 16 comprises a
plurality of members that couple together to form the closed loop
configuration. The closed loop, horizontal frame assembly 16, and
particularly the, trampoline 10 is shown as comprising a circular
configuration.
[0036] The trampoline 10 further comprises a jumping mat 18
supported by the frame 14, and particularly the horizontal frame
assembly 16, via a plurality of biasing members, shown as springs
22, which are annularly spaced about the perimeter of the jumping
mat 18 and are configured to connect the jumping mat 18 to the
horizontal frame assembly 16 in a manner commonly known in the art.
The jumping mat 18 functions to provide the trampoline 10 with its
jumping surface, with the springs enabling a trampoline effect. The
trampoline 10 may further comprise a protective cover 26 configured
for placement over the springs 22 and the frame 14 for added
protection to jumpers.
[0037] The trampoline 10 further comprises a plurality of legs,
shown as u-shaped legs 40-a, 40-b, 40-c, and 40-d, or similarly
structured legs, not to be limited. Unlike prior related
trampolines, the legs 40-a, 40-b, 40-c, and 40-d of the trampoline
10 are each configured with one or more height adjustment devices
70 designed to enable the selective adjustment of the jumping
height, shown as jumping height h.sub.1, of the trampoline 10, and
more particularly the jumping mat 18 and the frame 14 supporting
the jumping mat 18. Of course, as one skilled in the art will
recognize, leg configurations other than u-shaped are contemplated
herein, including those making up the height adjustment device 10
as described below.
[0038] As shown in FIG. 1, the height adjustment devices 70 are
adjusted to a relatively low adjustment position corresponding to a
jumping height h.sub.1 of the trampoline 10 and the jumping mat 18
with respect to the supporting surface (not shown) on which the
legs 40 rest. At this height, the clearance between the jumping mat
18 and the support surface is reduced, thus making the trampoline
10 much more accessible to smaller individuals, such as dwarfs or
children. Since the jumping mat 18 and the frame 14 are less of a
distance from the supporting surface or ground than standard height
trampolines, smaller individuals desiring to use the trampoline 10
may do so without incurring the risk of climbing onto the
trampoline by scaling its frame or by placing a foreign object,
such as a chair, next to the trampoline to assist in mounting the
trampoline, each of which pose significant hazards to the child. By
lowering the height of the trampoline 10, mounting the trampoline
10 becomes much easier and much safer. Moreover, since smaller
individuals do not typically weigh as much as adults, the proximity
of the jumping mat 18 to the supporting surface (e.g., the ground)
will not be problematic. Indeed, the trampoline 10 or the height
adjustment device 70 itself may be equipped with specific
instructions or guidelines for adjusting the trampoline to
accommodate a specific weight range. For safety purposes, the
jumping height of the trampoline 10 should always be high enough so
that those jumping on the trampoline are never in danger of hitting
the ground when jumping in a reasonable and intended or expected
manner. Of course, an adult desiring to use the trampoline 10 will
be required to raise the trampoline 10 and each of the height
adjustment devices 70 from its/their lowered adjustment position to
a higher adjustment position.
[0039] FIG. 2 illustrates the trampoline 10 of FIG. 1 in a raised
adjustment position, such as a standard height position. More
particularly, the height adjustment devices 70 operable with each
of the legs 40-a, 40-b, 40-c, and 40-d are shown adjusted to a
relatively high adjustment position corresponding to a jumping
height h.sub.2 of the jumping mat 18 with respect to the supporting
surface. In this position, the trampoline 10 functions much the
same way as prior related trampolines by accommodating those that
require a greater amount of clearance between the jumping mat 18
and the supporting surface or ground.
[0040] In light of the exemplary trampoline illustrated in FIGS. 1
and 2, it is noted herein that a trampoline comprises a plurality
of legs, each perhaps with two or more vertical support structures.
It is also noted that each vertical support structure operating to
support the frame and jumping mat of a trampoline may comprise a
height adjustment device or system as taught herein, although, for
purposes of discussion, only a single height adjustment device is
described below. As such, it is to be understood that a trampoline
will most likely utilize a plurality of height adjustment devices
or systems in order to achieve a proper and level height
adjustment.
[0041] With reference to FIG. 3, illustrated is a partial
perspective view of a height adjustment device according to one
exemplary embodiment of the present invention. As indicated, the
height adjustment device 70 is designed to build height
adjustability into a trampoline. Specifically, FIG.3 illustrates
the height adjustment device 70 as comprising a first support 74
operable with a second support 104 to provide a plurality of
selective adjustment positions corresponding to different jumping
heights. The first support 74 comprises a first end 78, a second
end 82, and an elongate portion 84 extending therebetween. In one
aspect, the first support 74 may comprise a uniform cross-section
along its entire length, including the first and second ends 78 and
82, respectively. This configuration is illustrated in FIG. 3 by
those lines shown in phantom, with the entire first support 74
comprising a uniform outside diameter d.sub.02. In another aspect,
the first end 78 may comprise a reduced diameter portion, such as
the reduced diameter portion 86 about first end 78, as is also
shown in FIG. 3. This will largely depend upon the size and
configuration of the portion of the frame segment with which the
first support 74 is to interface and join with. In the embodiment
shown, the reduced diameter portion 86 comprises a circular
cross-section with an outside diameter d.sub.o1, wherein the
elongate portion 84 comprises a circular cross-section having a
diameter d.sub.o2. As such, the exemplary first support 74, as
shown, comprises a non-uniform cross-section. As shown, the reduced
diameter portion 86 comprises a substantially uniform
cross-section. In an alternative embodiment, the reduced diameter
portion 86 may comprise a tapered configuration that enables the
first support 74 to interface and join with sleeves of different
sizes. The first support 74 further comprises a plurality of
adjustment apertures 94 formed therein through its sidewall.
[0042] Likewise, the second support 104 comprises a first end 108,
a second end 112, and an elongate portion 114 extending
therebetween. The first and second ends 108 and 112 may or may not
further comprise a reduced diameter portion 116 depending upon the
size and configuration of the frame and/or leg to which they are
being joined. FIG. 3 illustrates each of these configurations. In
the embodiment shown, the second support 104 comprises an outside
diameter d.sub.o1, and a reduced diameter portion 116 formed about
the second end 112, having an outside diameter d.sub.o2.
Furthermore, the second support 104 comprises an inside diameter di
that is slightly greater than the outside diameter d.sub.02 of the
first support 74, thus allowing the first support 74 to be inserted
within and slidably coupled to the second support 104. The second
support further comprises one or more adjustment apertures 124
formed therein through its sidewall.
[0043] The first support 74 comprises a length x.sub.1 and the
second support 104 comprises a length x.sub.2, wherein lengths
x.sub.1 and x.sub.2 may or may not be the same. In the exemplary
embodiment shown, the length x.sub.1 of the first support 74 is
longer than the length x.sub.2 of the second support 104, thereby
allowing a portion of the first support 74 to extend from the
second support 104, even in a lowermost adjustment position, to
provide stability and support to the height adjustment device 70
and the trampoline.
[0044] The height adjustment device may be designed to function as
an intermediate component, wherein the height adjustment device
interfaces and joins with a portion of an existing frame of the
trampoline as well as a portion of an existing leg of the
trampoline to introduce a height adjustability feature into the
trampoline. In one embodiment, the height adjustment device
replaces only a portion of the existing leg of a trampoline.
However, some embodiments of the present invention contemplate a
height adjustment device that replaces all of the existing legs of
the trampoline. Each of these is discussed in greater detail
below.
[0045] In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 3, the height
adjustment device 70 is configured to interface and join with at
least a portion of the frame 14 of the trampoline, as well as at
least a portion of an existing leg 40 of the trampoline. More
specifically, the first support 74 is configured to interface and
join with at least a portion of the frame 14 of the trampoline,
with the second support 104 being configured to interface and join
with at least a portion of the existing leg of the trampoline. As
shown, the first support 74 is configured to interface and join
with a sleeve 30 extending down from a portion of the frame 14 of
an existing trampoline, wherein the sleeve 30 comprises an outside
surface with an outside diameter d.sub.o, and an inside surface
(not shown) having a diameter d.sub.i. The sleeve 30 is configured
to receive the reduced diameter portion 86 of the first support 74
as located on its first end 78. As the inside diameter d.sub.i of
the sleeve 30 is slightly greater than the outside diameter
d.sub.o1 of the reduced diameter portion 86, the first support 74
is capable of securely fitting within the sleeve 30. The first
support 74 further comprises a rim 98 that engages and rests
against a portion of an outside surface of the horizontal frame
assembly 16 contained within the sleeve 30 when the first support
74 is fully inserted into the sleeve 30. In another arrangement,
when fully inserted, a rim 38 of the sleeve 30 may be caused to
engage and rest against a lip 90 formed at the intersection of the
elongate body 84 and the reduced diameter portion 86 of the first
support 74, thus securely releasably coupling the first support 74
to the frame 14. This joining configuration of the first support 74
with the sleeve 30 is intended to be similar to the joining
configuration of the sleeve 30 with an existing leg of the
trampoline. As such, the sleeve 30 functions to provide support for
the first support 74 of the height adjustment device 70.
[0046] The second support 104 is configured to interface and join
with at least a portion of the leg 40 of the trampoline. Most legs
of a trampoline comprise, as part of their structure, a u-shaped
portion to provide better stability and ground support to the
trampoline. As shown, the second support 104 is configured to
interface and join with a vertical extension 48 of a u-shaped leg
40, wherein the u-shaped leg further comprises a horizontal ground
support 44 extending between first and second vertical extensions
as commonly known in the art. The vertical extension 48 comprises
an outside diameter d.sub.o2 that merges into a reduced diameter
portion 52, leaving lip 56, wherein the reduced diameter portion 52
has an outside diameter d.sub.o1, which is common to most
trampoline legs. The second end 112 of the second support 104 is
configured to be inserted over the reduced diameter portion 52 of
the leg 40, with a rim 132 of the second support 104 engaging and
resting against a lip 56 formed within the vertical extension 48 of
the leg 40, thus securely releasably coupling the second support
104 to the leg 40. An alternative coupling arrangement may be where
the second support 104 does not comprise a reduced diameter portion
116. In this case, the inside diameter d.sub.i of the second
support 104 may be configured to be slightly greater than the
outside diameter d.sub.o2 of the vertical extension 48, thus
allowing the second support 104 to slide over the vertical
extension 48 with the rim 132 extending beyond the lip 56 and
engaging and resting upon at least a portion of the horizontal
ground support 44, namely the bend in the leg 40 in which the
ground support 44 transitions into the vertical extension 48.
[0047] In still another embodiment, the second support 104 may be
eliminated altogether and the first end 78 of the first support 74
configured to interface with the leg 40. In this embodiment, the
first end 78 may be configured with the same diameter as the
elongate portion 114, or it may comprise a reduced diameter portion
86, each of which are discussed above. The first end 78 may be
configured to rest on the lip 56 of the leg 40 (such as in the
embodiment having a reduced diameter), or first end 78 may be
configured to fully receive the vertical extension 48, with the
first end 78 extending over the lip 56 and coming to rest at the
bend in the let 40.
[0048] The height adjustment device 70 further comprises an
adjustment configuration configured to facilitate the adjustment of
the first support 74 relative to the second support 104, and thus
the height of the jumping mat of the trampoline. In one exemplary
embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, the adjustment configuration
comprises a at least one and preferably a plurality of adjustment
apertures 94 formed in the first support 74, at least one and
preferably a plurality of adjustment apertures 124 formed in the
second support 104, and a slidable relationship between the first
and second supports 74 and 104 to effectuate a plurality of
selectable adjustment positions corresponding to a plurality of
desired jumping heights of the jumping mat of the trampoline.
[0049] As indicated, the first support 74 is slidably related to
the second support 104, wherein the first support 74 slides within
the second support 104 to provide a plurality of adjustment
positions. To adjust the height of the trampoline, one or more
adjustment apertures 94 formed in the first support 74 are selected
and aligned with one or more adjustment apertures 124 formed in the
second support 104. Once aligned, a fastener 140 is inserted
through the aligned and selected adjustment apertures 124 and 94
and secured in place, thus preventing either of the first or second
supports 74 and 104 from sliding with respect to the other. The
fastener 140 may comprise any fastener known in the art suited for
the purpose intended herein. For example, the fastener 140 may
comprise a bolt and nut assembly, as shown in FIG. 1, a pin, a
quick-release assembly, or any others commonly known. This
procedure may be repeated as often as necessary on each of the
height adjustment devices supporting the trampoline to adjust the
height of the jumping mat of the trampoline.
[0050] With reference to FIGS. 3 and 4, the height adjustment
device 70 is shown in a lowermost adjustment position with the
first and second supports 74 and 104 collapsed upon each other. In
this position, the rim 38 of the sleeve 30 is caused to engage and
rest upon the rim 128 of the second support 104. The first support
(shown in phantom) is completely contained within the sleeve 30,
the second support 104, and the leg 40. However, as can be seen,
the first support extends upward from the second support 104 into
the sleeve 30 even in this lowermost position to provide stability
and lateral support to the trampoline. The height of the jumping
mat with the height adjustment device in this particular adjustment
position is relatively low as compared to a standard height
trampoline, thus facilitating much safer mounting and dismounting
of the trampoline by a jumper of smaller size and weight. In this
position, the risk of children and other small individuals falling
off of the trampoline are significantly reduced, thus making the
jumping environment much safer and relaxing. In this position,
children no longer need to be creative in attempting to mount or
dismount the trampoline. In addition, the distance from the jumping
mat to the supporting surface or ground is much less, thus reducing
the likelihood of injury in the event of a fall. An exemplary
jumping height with the height adjustment device in this adjustment
position may be 19 inches as measured from the supporting surface
or ground.
[0051] With reference to FIGS. 3 and 5, the height adjustment
device 70 is shown in an extended adjustment position to provide a
relatively high jumping height as compared to the jumping height
provided by the adjustment position illustrated in FIG. 4. In this
adjustment position, the first support 74 is slid to extend a
distance above the rim 128 of the second support 104, thereby
exposing the plurality of adjustment apertures 94 formed in the
first support 74. As shown in FIG. 4, the first support 74 is
extended to a maximum height, with its adjustment aperture most
proximate to the second end 82 aligned with the adjustment aperture
124 formed in the second support 104. As so aligned, the fastener
140 is inserted therethrough to secure the selected adjustment
position. In this extended position, a significant portion of the
first support 74 is still contained and supported within the second
support 104 in order to maintain the structural integrity of the
height adjustment device 70 in its capacity as a support leg for
the trampoline. An exemplary jumping height with the height
adjustment device in this adjustment position may be 25 inches as
measured from the supporting surface or ground. As can be seen, the
jumping height of the jumping mat with the height adjustment device
70 in its uppermost and extended adjustment position may be less
than the jumping height achieved by a standard leg assembly.
However, if such a standard jumping height is desirable, the height
adjustment device 70 may be removed and replaced once again with
the standard leg assembly.
[0052] FIG. 5 further illustrates a plurality of adjustment
apertures 94 formed in the first support 74 that allow the first
support 74 to be adjusted relative to the second support 104 to
achieve a plurality of adjustment positions. These different
adjustment positions correspond to different jumping heights and
may be selected as needed or desired.
[0053] Referring now to FIG. 6, illustrated is an alternative
coupling arrangement between the first support 74 and the sleeve 30
of the frame 14, and the second support 104 and the vertical
extension 48 of the leg 40. The function of the height adjustment
device 70 is similar to the embodiment discussed above. However, in
this embodiment the sleeve 30 is caused to engage and rest upon a
fastener 140-a as inserted through the uppermost adjustment
aperture 94 formed in the first support 74. In this configuration,
the rim of the first support is disengaged and offset a distance
from a portion of the frame 14. However, much of the first end 78
of the first support 74 is still inside the sleeve 30 for support
and stability purposes. Likewise, the rim 60 of the reduced
diameter portion 116 of the leg 40 is caused to engage a fastener
140-c inserted through the adjustment aperture formed in the second
support 104. In this configuration, the second support 104 is
supported about the leg 40 via the fastener 140-c. As such, the rim
132 of the second support 104 is offset a distance and disengaged
from the lip 56 of the vertical extension 48. A third fastener
140-c is used to secure the height adjustment device 70 in one or
more selected adjustment positions as taught herein.
[0054] The height adjustment device may further comprise one or
more adapters configured to facilitate the interchangeability of
the height adjustment device and its use on different sized and
configured trampolines. With reference to FIG. 8, illustrated is
another exemplary embodiment of an adjustment configuration of a
height adjustment device 70 utilizing an adapter 150. As shown, the
adapter 150 comprises a two-stage cylindrical configuration having
a first end 154 as a first stage, a second end 158, and a reduced
diameter portion 162 as a second stage. The first end 154 comprises
a rim 156 defining an inside diameter d.sub.i1 that is larger than
the outside diameter d.sub.o of the sleeve 30 of the frame 14. With
this configuration, the adapter 150 is designed to interface and
join with, and particularly to fit over the outer surface 34 of,
the sleeve 30 with the rim 156 either caused to rest against the
horizontal frame assembly 16 or caused to be offset a distance from
the frame assembly 16. The adapter 150 further comprises a
plurality of, and preferably three, apertures 166 formed in its
first end 154 that are spaced an equidistance around the perimeter
and that are configured to receive corresponding securing
fasteners, shown as securing pins 168, therethrough to secure the
adapter to the sleeve 30. The securing pins 168 may be selectively
adjusted as needed depending upon the respective sizes of the
sleeve 30 and the adapter 150. The adapter 150 is preferably sized
and configured to accommodate sleeves of different sizes existing
on different types or sizes of trampolines. The securing pins 168
function similar to set screws, wherein they adjust to engage the
sleeve 30 no matter its diameter, thereby securing the adapter 150
to the sleeve 30.
[0055] The second end 158 of the adapter 150 comprises a rim 160
defining an inside diameter d.sub.i2 that is slightly larger than
the outside diameter d.sub.o1 of the reduced diameter portion 86 of
the first support 74, thus enabling the adapter to interface and
join with the first support 74. The second end 158 of the adapter
150 further comprises an aperture 170 formed therein. A fastener
174 is used to securely and releasably couple the adapter 150 to
the first support 74. The first support 74 functions to slidably
operate with a second support (not shown) in a similar manner as
discussed above.
[0056] With use of the adapter, not only can the height adjustment
device 70 be utilized on a number of different types and sizes of
trampolines, but additional adjustment positions and corresponding
jumping heights are made available over the use of just the first
and second supports alone. Indeed, the adapter comprises a function
very similar to a spacer in which the adapter increases the
available adjustment positions of the height adjustment device 70
due to its added length and presence of one or more adjustment
apertures. Other configurations of the adapter 150 are contemplated
herein, and thus the one specifically presented herein is not meant
to be limiting in any way.
[0057] Although not shown, the height adjustment device may further
comprise an adapter configured for use with the second support,
wherein the adapter interfaces and joins with a portion of the leg
of a trampoline. This adapter may be similar in form and function
to the one just discussed, or may comprise another
configuration.
[0058] In another exemplary embodiment of the present invention,
the adjustment configuration comprises a rotational adjustment
configuration. With reference to FIG. 8, the first support 74 of
the height adjustment device 70 comprises a thread configuration
182 formed on at least a portion of its outer surface. The first
support 74 interfaces and joins with the sleeve 30 of the frame 14
in a similar manner as discussed above, which description is
incorporated herein.
[0059] Likewise, the second support 104 comprises a thread
configuration 186 formed on at least a portion of an inner surface
(not shown). The second support 104 interfaces and joins with the
vertical extension 48 of the leg 40 in a similar manner as
discussed above, which description is incorporated herein. The
thread configuration 182 on the first support 74 corresponds with
and matches the thread configuration 186 on the second support 104,
thereby rotatably relating the first support 74 with the second
support 104. The thread configurations 182 and 186, and the
operable rotational relationship between the first and second
supports 74 and 104 function to provide an infinite number of
adjustment positions and jumping heights based on the relative
rotation of the first support 74 with respect to the second support
104. By rotating the first support 74 in one direction with respect
to the second support 104, the frame and jumping mat of the
trampoline may be lowered. Conversely, by rotating the first
support 74 in the opposite direction with respect to the second
support 104, the frame and jumping mat may be raised. All other
aspects of the first and second supports, as they relate to the
frame and leg of the trampoline, respectively, are similar to those
discussed above, where applicable.
[0060] In still another exemplary embodiment of the present
invention, the adjustment configuration comprises a compression
member supported about the second support and configured to
compress against the first support to secure it in one a plurality
of adjustment positions. A quick release device may be incorporated
into the compression member for quick and efficient adjustment. The
type of compression member contemplated for use herein is commonly
known in the art.
[0061] In still another exemplary embodiment, the adjustment
configuration may comprise a telescoping configuration in which, in
one aspect, the first and second supports are formed from a series
of coupled components or elements that may collapse and expand upon
one another as commonly known in the art. In another aspect, a
single telescoping support may be used rather than fist and second
supports. In either embodiment, the telescoping configuration may
further comprise a locking system for locking the various
telescoping supports in a fixed position, and relative to one
another, so as to provide a desired trampoline height.
[0062] Essentially, the present invention contemplates any system,
mechanism, configuration, etc. capable of providing adjustable
height to a trampoline. As such, the specific embodiments discussed
herein are not meant to be limiting in any way.
[0063] In each of the embodiments discussed above, the first and
second supports 74 and 104 are designed to be releasably coupled to
their respective frame and leg counterparts thus allowing the
height adjustment device 70 to be removed for one or more purposes
as desired. More particularly, the first and second supports 74 and
104 are designed to be universal, meaning the height adjustment
device 70 may be removed from one trampoline and incorporated into
another trampoline, even if the other trampoline is of a different
size or make or configuration. Stated another way, the height
adjustment device of the present invention is interchangeable and
configured for use on a variety of different sized and configured
trampolines.
[0064] The preset invention further features a height adjustment
device according to another exemplary embodiment. With reference to
FIG. 9, the height adjustment device 70-a comprises a first support
74-a that is configured and that functions similar to the first
support discussed above, which description is incorporated herein,
where applicable. However, unlike the height adjustment device
discussed above and shown in FIGS. 3-8 in which a second support is
operable with the first support, the height adjustment device 70-a
of FIG. 9 comprises a u-shaped leg 196 operable with the first
support to adjustably support the frame 14 and jumping mat (not
shown) of the trampoline about the support surface or ground. As
shown, the u-shaped leg 196 comprises a vertical extension 204-a
and a horizontal ground support 200 extending between the vertical
extension 204-a and a second vertical extension 204-b. The vertical
extension 204-a comprises a cylindrical configuration with an
outside diameter do and an inside diameter d.sub.i. The inside
diameter d.sub.i is slightly larger than the outside diameter
d.sub.o2 of the first support 74-a, thereby allowing the first
support 74-a to be inserted into and slidably engage the vertical
extension 204-a of the u-shaped leg 196. The vertical extension
204-a further comprises an adjustment aperture 212-a formed therein
configured to align with one of a plurality of adjustment apertures
94-a formed in the first support 74-a to effectuate the adjustment
of the first support 74-a with respect to the vertical extension
204-a and the adjustment of the jumping mat and corresponding
jumping height of the trampoline. As can be seen, the vertical
extension 204-a and the first support 74-a are operably related and
function much like the second support discussed above and depicted
in FIGS. 3-6.
[0065] The height adjustment device 70-a may be adjusted to a
lowermost adjustment position by collapsing the first support 74-a
with respect to the vertical extension 204-a and causing the rim
38-a of the sleeve 30-a to engage and rest upon the rim 208-a of
the vertical extension 204-a. The height adjustment device 70-a may
be adjusted to any one of a plurality of interim adjustment
positions or an uppermost adjustment position by selectively
aligning a different adjustment aperture 94-a with the adjustment
aperture 212-a and inserting a suitable fastener (not shown) to
secure the adjustment position. Furthermore, one or more adapters
may be used with the height adjustment device 70-a, which adapters
may be configured in a similar manner as discussed above.
[0066] As will be recognized by those skilled in the art, the
illustrated height adjustment device 70-b is configured and
operates in a similar manner as the height adjustment device 70-a,
and is therefore not discussed in detail herein. The height
adjustment device 70-b is configured about and comprises as one of
its component parts the vertical extension 204-b, which is opposite
the vertical extension 204-a and joined by the common horizontal
ground support 200.
[0067] FIG. 9 further illustrates the present invention as
comprising a length adjustment 220 configured to facilitate the
adjustability of a length of the horizontal ground support 200 and
to interconnect the two height adjustment devices 70-a and 70-a as
separated by a joint or break formed in the horizontal ground
support. The length adjustment 220 operates to facilitate the
relative distance between the height adjustment devices 70-a and
70-b by slidably relating the separated ends of the horizontal
ground support 200. As shown, the length adjustment 220 comprises a
cylindrical collar configuration having a length L and an inside
diameter d.sub.i that is slightly greater than an outside diameter
d.sub.o of the horizontal ground support 200, thereby allowing the
length adjustment 220 to slidably couple to and contain the exposed
ends of the horizontal ground support 200. The length adjustment
220 further comprises a plurality of adjustment apertures, shown as
adjustment apertures 224-a and 224-b formed within and located
about respective ends of the length adjustment 220. The length
adjustment 220 is configured to slide about the horizontal ground
support 200, and the adjustment apertures 224-a and 224-b are
configured to align with apertures 216-a and 216-b, respectively,
formed in the horizontal ground support 200 to provide a plurality
of selectable adjustment positions. As such, the horizontal ground
support 200 may be selectively lengthened or shortened, which
functions to adjust the relative distance between the height
adjustment devices 70-a and 70-b. By configuring the u-shaped leg
196 with one or more length adjustments 220, the u-shaped leg 196,
and the corresponding height adjustment devices 70-a and 70-b, may
be incorporated into trampolines in which the sleeve portions of
the frame are spaced apart at different distances. As the length
adjustment is not required to bear large loads, various types of
adjustment configurations may be incorporated other than the one
specifically described herein and illustrated in FIG. 9. For
example, the adjustment configuration may comprise a pin and slot
assembly, or any others commonly known in the art for slidably
relating two components.
[0068] The present invention further features a system for
adjusting the height of a trampoline with respect to a support or
ground surface. The system comprises at least one and preferably a
plurality of interchangeable supports, each having a fixed
pre-determined length corresponding to a desired jumping height.
The interchangeable supports are designed to replace a vertical
portion of an existing leg of a trampoline and to interface and
join with at least a portion of a frame and a remaining portion of
the existing leg to achieve the desired jumping height. With
reference to FIG. 10, illustrated are four separate and individual
interchangeable supports, shown as supports 230-a, 230-b, 230-c,
and 230-d, each having a pre-determined, fixed length, shown as
lengths x.sub.1, x.sub.2, x.sub.3, and x.sub.4, respectively.
Specifically, with reference to interchangeable support 230-a, a
reduced diameter portion 234-a is configured for insertion into
sleeve 30, wherein rim 38 rests upon the lip 238-a of the
interchangeable support 230-a, or alternatively wherein a rim of
the interchangeable support 230-a, 230-b, 230-c, and 230-d engages
and rests against a portion of an outside surface of the horizontal
frame assembly 16 contained within the sleeve 30 when the first
support 74 is fully inserted into the sleeve 30, as is similar to
first support 74 of FIG. 1. Likewise, the interchangeable support
230-a is configured to interface and join with the vertical
extension 48 of the leg 40 in a similar manner as a standard
vertical extension. To adjust the height of the trampoline, one
simply interchanges a support of one length with a support of a
different length. This is repeated for each leg of the trampoline.
The specific pre-determined lengths of the interchangeable supports
are not limited in to any length, but may be any as desired.
[0069] As mentioned above, the above height adjustment devices,
systems, and methods feature the ability to adjust one leg assembly
(e.g., an existing leg joined with another height adjustment
device, or the complete replacement of a leg with a height
adjustment device) to one height and a different leg assembly to
another height to achieve different heights for one or more
purposes. For example, providing the ability to adjust different
legs or leg assemblies of the trampoline to different heights, a
leveling function may be introduced to the trampoline in the event
of an uneven support surface. Although this concept is not shown in
the drawings, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art.
[0070] The foregoing detailed description describes the invention
with reference to specific exemplary embodiments. However, it will
be appreciated that various modifications and changes can be made
without departing from the scope of the present invention as set
forth in the appended claims. The detailed description and
accompanying drawings are to be regarded as merely illustrative,
rather than as restrictive, and all such modifications or changes,
if any, are intended to fall within the scope of the present
invention as described and set forth herein.
[0071] More specifically, while illustrative exemplary embodiments
of the invention have been described herein, the present invention
is not limited to these embodiments, but includes any and all
embodiments having modifications, omissions, combinations (e.g., of
aspects across various embodiments), adaptations and/or alterations
as would be appreciated by those in the art based on the foregoing
detailed description. The limitations in the claims are to be
interpreted broadly based on the language employed in the claims
and not limited to examples described in the foregoing detailed
description or during the prosecution of the application, which
examples are to be construed as non-exclusive. For example, in the
present disclosure, the term "preferably" is non-exclusive where it
is intended to mean "preferably, but not limited to." Any steps
recited in any method or process claims may be executed in any
order and are not limited to the order presented in the claims.
Means-plus-function or step-plus-function limitations will only be
employed where for a specific claim limitation all of the following
conditions are present in that limitation: a) "means for" or "step
for" is expressly recited; b) a corresponding function is expressly
recited; and c) structure, material or acts that support that
structure are expressly recited. Accordingly, the scope of the
invention should be determined solely by the appended claims and
their legal equivalents, rather than by the descriptions and
examples given above.
* * * * *