U.S. patent application number 11/230445 was filed with the patent office on 2007-03-22 for trampoline accessory.
Invention is credited to Chad E. Overholt.
Application Number | 20070066447 11/230445 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 37884954 |
Filed Date | 2007-03-22 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070066447 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Overholt; Chad E. |
March 22, 2007 |
Trampoline accessory
Abstract
A trampoline accessory having a water conduit and water conduit
securing means for securing the water conduit to the mat of a
trampoline. The water conduit has a water supply inlet and a
plurality of water discharging outlets. The water supply inlet is
preferably of a first diameter, and the water discharging outlets
are preferably of a second diameter, with the first diameter being
greater than the second diameter. The water supply inlet preferably
includes a diverter, with the diverter creating at least two flow
paths. The trampoline securing means may be selected from a group
which includes cable ties, cooperative hook and loop straps,
grommets, fabric straps, plastic straps, belts, snaps, clasps, and
clips. The water conduit itself is preferably fabricated having a
hose connector and a hose. As so fabricated, the hose has at least
one fitting, with the fitting engaging the hose connector. In the
preferred embodiment, the hose has two fittings, with each of the
fittings engaging the hose connector. The fitting and the hose
connector preferably are formed have cooperating male and female
connections.
Inventors: |
Overholt; Chad E.; (Lima,
OH) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Patrick P. Phillips;Kremblas, Foster, Phillips & Pollick
7632 Slate Ridge Blvd
Reynolsdburg
OH
43068
US
|
Family ID: |
37884954 |
Appl. No.: |
11/230445 |
Filed: |
September 21, 2005 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
482/27 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 5/11 20130101; A63B
2009/008 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/027 |
International
Class: |
A63B 5/11 20060101
A63B005/11 |
Claims
1. A trampoline accessory comprising a water conduit, said conduit
having a water supply inlet, a sidewall, and a plurality of water
discharging outlets, and water conduit securing means, said water
conduit securing means securing said water conduit to a trampoline,
said water conduit being secured to the mat of the trampoline.
2. The trampoline accessory according to claim 1 wherein said water
supply inlet is of a first diameter, and said water discharging
outlets are of a second diameter, said first diameter being greater
than said second diameter.
3. The trampoline accessory according to claim 1 wherein said water
supply inlet includes a diverter, said diverter creating at least
two flow paths.
4. The trampoline accessory according to claim 1 wherein said
trampoline securing means is selected from a group comprising cable
ties, cooperative hook and loop straps, grommets, fabric straps,
plastic straps, belts, snaps, clasps, clips, cooperative hook and
loop fasteners with the hook and loop components of said fasteners
being on opposed surfaces of the trampoline mat and said water
conduit sidewall, and adhesives.
5. The trampoline accessory according to claim 1 wherein said water
conduit comprises a hose connector and a hose.
6. The trampoline accessory according to claim 5 wherein said hose
has at least one fitting, said fitting engaging said hose
connector.
7. The trampoline accessory according to claim 6 wherein said hose
has two fittings, each of said fittings engaging said hose
connector.
8. The trampoline accessory according to claim 5 wherein said
fitting and said hose connector have cooperating male and female
connections.
9. The trampoline accessory according to claim 5 wherein said hose
is of a diameter of approximately 0.5''.
10. The trampoline accessory according to claim 1 wherein the
majority of said water discharging outlets are spaced apart from
directly adjacent water discharging outlets a first distance, said
first distance being in the range of 2-10''.
11. A trampoline comprising a support structure and a mat, said mat
having secured thereto a water conduit, said conduit having a water
supply inlet, a sidewall, and a plurality of water discharging
outlets, and a water conduit securing means, said water conduit
securing means securing said water conduit to a trampoline such
that said water conduit sidewall is attached to said mat of said
trampoline.
12. The trampoline according to claim 11 wherein said water supply
inlet is of a first diameter, and said water discharging outlets
are of a second diameter, said first diameter being greater than
said second diameter.
13. The trampoline according to claim 11 wherein said water supply
inlet includes a diverter, said diverter creating at least two flow
paths.
14. The trampoline according to claim 11 wherein said trampoline
securing means is selected from a group comprising cable ties,
cooperative hook and loop straps, grommets, fabric straps, plastic
straps, belts, snaps, clasps, clips, cooperative hook and loop
fasteners with the hook and loop components of said fasteners being
on opposed surfaces of the trampoline mat and said water conduit
sidewall, and adhesives.
15. The trampoline according to claim 11 wherein said water conduit
comprises a hose connector and a hose.
16. The trampoline according to claim 15 wherein said hose has at
least one fitting, said fitting engaging said hose connector.
17. The trampoline according to claim 16 wherein said hose has two
fittings, each of said fittings engaging said hose connector.
18. The trampoline according to claim 15 wherein said fitting and
said hose connector have cooperating male and female
connections.
19. The trampoline according to claim 15 wherein said hose is of a
diameter of approximately 0.5''.
20. The trampoline according to claim 15 wherein the majority of
said water discharging outlets are spaced apart from directly
adjacent water discharging outlets a first distance, said first
distance being in the range of 2-10''.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field Of The Invention
[0002] This invention relates generally to an accessory item for
trampolines, and more particularly, to a trampoline accessory that
facilitates the spraying of water onto individuals when using the
trampoline, and even more particularly to such an accessory that
directs the spraying from essentially the entire periphery of the
trampoline regardless of trampoline surface shape.
[0003] 2. Description Of The Related Art
[0004] This invention is directed to a trampoline accessory that is
dissimilar from other known accessories for trampolines. The
trampoline itself can be traced to archaeological drawings in
ancient China, Egypt and Persia. From then until the mid-twentieth
century, a number of methods were devised to allow man to gain time
in the air. The trampoline is one of these methods.
[0005] However, the modern day trampoline was not invented until
1936, when it was developed by two Americans as an alternative to
having to repair trapeze netting. While the sport of trampoline has
since progressed to the point that in 2000 it was recognized an
Olympic sport, the popularity of the trampoline as a recreational
diversion has expanded just as much, if not more. As a result, now
there are a plurality of trampoline surface sizes and shapes. In
addition, some trampoline surfaces are now found decorated with
colorful designs or artwork. Still further, above-ground
trampolines surrounded by safety netting are found in countless
yards across the country. In addition to having in-ground and
above-ground trampolines, more recently an inflatable trampoline
for use on bodies of water (i.e. pools, lakes, ponds) has been
developed.
[0006] Even with the evolution of the modern trampoline, much of
the structure associated with trampolines remains essentially
unchanged. Furthermore, some trampoline users lose interest in
continuing to use the device if all they can do is merely jump up
and down, as that activity for some can quickly become boring. It
is thus apparent that the need exists for an improvement for
trampolines, whether in the form of an accessory for, or as an
integral component of, a trampoline.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] In accordance with the present invention, there is disclosed
a trampoline accessory having a water conduit, and means for
securing the conduit to a trampoline, preferably to the mat
thereof. The water conduit has a water supply inlet and a plurality
of water discharging outlets. The water supply inlet is preferably
of a first diameter, and the water discharging outlets are
preferably of a second diameter, with the first diameter being
greater than the second diameter.
[0008] The water supply inlet preferably includes a diverter, with
the diverter creating at least two flow paths. The trampoline
securing means may be selected from a group which includes cable
ties, cooperative hook and loop straps, grommets, fabric straps,
plastic straps, belts, snaps, clasps, and clips. In the preferred
embodiment of the invention, the device utilizes cable ties which
pass over the conduit and are secured to a pad secured to the mat.
Preferably the pad comprises at least one eyelet through which each
cable tie passes before its opposite ends are secured in the manner
well known in the fastener art.
[0009] The water conduit itself is preferably fabricated having a
hose connector and a hose. As so fabricated, the hose has at least
one fitting, with the fitting engaging the hose connector. In the
preferred embodiment, the hose has two fittings, with each of the
fittings engaging the hose connector. The fitting and the hose
connector preferably are formed have cooperating male and female
connections.
[0010] In the preferred embodiment, the hose is of a diameter of
approximately 0.5''. Also, the majority of the water discharging
outlets are spaced apart from directly adjacent water discharging
outlets a first distance, with the first distance being in the
range of 2-10''.
[0011] There is also disclosed a trampoline having secured thereto
a water conduit by means for securing the conduit to the
trampoline. The water conduit has a water supply inlet and a
plurality of water discharging outlets. The water supply inlet is
preferably of a first diameter, and the water discharging outlets
are preferably of a second diameter, with the first diameter being
greater than the second diameter.
[0012] The water supply inlet preferably includes a diverter, with
the diverter creating at least two flow paths. The trampoline
securing means may be selected from a group which includes cable
ties, cooperative hook and loop straps, grommets, fabric straps,
plastic straps, belts, snaps, clasps, and clips. In the preferred
embodiment of the invention, the device utilizes cable ties which
pass over the conduit and are secured to a pad having its lower
surface secured to the upper surface of the trampoline mat.
Preferably the pad comprises at least one eyelet through which each
cable tie passes before its opposite ends are secured in the manner
well known in the fastener art.
[0013] The water conduit itself is preferably fabricated having a
hose connector and a hose. As so fabricated, the hose has at least
one fitting, with the fitting engaging the hose connector. In the
preferred embodiment, the hose has two fittings, with each of the
fittings engaging the hose connector. The fitting and the hose
connector preferably are formed have cooperating male and female
connections.
[0014] In the preferred embodiment, the hose is of a diameter of
approximately 0.5''. Also, the majority of the water discharging
outlets are spaced apart from directly adjacent water discharging
outlets a first distance, with the first distance being in the
range of 2-10''.
[0015] The primary objective of this invention is to provide an
accessory for trampolines that facilitates the spraying of
individuals while they are using the trampoline.
[0016] Another objective of this invention is to provide such an
accessory that can be easily assembled and installed onto a
trampoline.
[0017] Yet another objective of this invention is to provide a
device that can be sold as an integral component of a trampoline,
instead of as a separate accessory which would need to be installed
on the trampoline.
[0018] Other objects and advantages of the invention will be
apparent from the following description, the accompanying drawings
and the appended claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0019] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of a trampoline
accessory made in accordance with the present invention, and shown
in use.
[0020] FIG. 2 is a modified embodiment of the invention shown in
use.
[0021] In describing the preferred embodiment of the invention
which is illustrated in the drawings, specific terminology will be
resorted to for the sake of clarity. However, it is not intended
that the invention be limited to the specific term so selected and
it is to be understood that each specific term includes all
technical equivalents which operate in a similar manner to
accomplish a similar purpose.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0022] Having reference to the drawings, attention is directed
first to FIG. 1, which discloses a trampoline accessory designated
generally by the numeral 10. In the embodiment of the invention
shown in FIG. 1, it will be appreciated that the trampoline
accessory has a water conduit 12, and means for securing the
conduit to a trampoline 14. In this embodiment of the invention,
the securing takes place between the water conduit 12 and mat 16 of
the trampoline with which it is used, such that the water conduit
rests on the upper surface 16 or mat of the trampoline.
[0023] The water conduit 12 in this embodiment of the invention is
shown as having a water supply inlet 20 and a plurality of water
discharging outlets 25. The water supply inlet 20 is preferably of
a first diameter, and the water discharging outlets 25 are
preferably of a second diameter, with the first diameter being
greater than the second diameter. The water supply inlet 20
preferably includes a diverter 30, with the diverter 30 creating at
least two flow paths 33 and 35. The diverter could take the form of
a 3-way hose connection or another common connector. Although only
one hose 41 is shown in the embodiment of the invention shown in
FIG. 1, it would be possible for the water supply inlet 20 to be
formed integrally with the hose 41. Furthermore, the water supply
inlet 20 could be connected to the hose, such that there is only
one flow path, with the distal end of the hose being closed by a
conventional hose end cap or other equivalent device.
[0024] The trampoline securing means 14 may be selected from a
group which includes cable ties, cooperative hook and loop straps,
grommets, fabric straps, plastic straps, belts, snaps, clasps,
clips, cooperative hook and loop fasteners, and even an adhesive
affixed to the underside of the hose. Regardless of the type of
securing means used, instead of the sidewalls of the water conduit
being in direct contact with the frame of the trampoline, the water
conduit in this invention has its sidewalls in contact with the
trampoline mat 16.
[0025] In the preferred embodiment of the invention, a plurality of
pads 15 are secured to the mat surface. Each pad has at least one
eyelet 15a through which a portion of a fastener may pass. In the
preferred embodiment of the invention, the fastener is a cable tie
which effectively encircles the conduit and has the opposite ends
of the tie attached together after one end has passed through the
pad eyelet 15a. The pads may be secured to the mat by fastening
means such as grommets, adhesive, or hook and loop cooperative
tape.
[0026] The water conduit itself is preferably fabricated having a
hose connector 40 and a hose 41. As so fabricated, the hose 41 has
at least one fitting 42, with the fitting 42 engaging a hose
connector 40. In the preferred embodiment, the hose 41 has two
fittings 42, with each of the fittings 42 engaging a hose connector
40. The fitting 42 and the hose connector 40 preferably are formed
have cooperating male and female connections. Regardless of the
embodiment, for a more aesthetically pleasing appearance, the hose
may be fabricated in a bright color, such as red, yellow, blue,
green or purple. Similarly, the hose connector may be fabricated
from a bright colored plastic. In the preferred embodiment of the
invention, the conduit, or at least the portion of it which rests
on the mat surface, is encased in a foam cover 44, it being
understood that the water discharging outlets pass through the
cover 44 as well.
[0027] In the preferred embodiment, the hose 41 is of a diameter of
approximately 0.5''. While the diameter of the water discharging
outlets could vary, in the preferred embodiment of the invention
their diameter is about 0.0625''. Also, the majority of the water
discharging outlets 25 are spaced apart from directly adjacent
water discharging outlets 25 a first distance, with the first
distance being in the range of 2-10'', with a distance of 4''
believed to be optimal.
[0028] Furthermore, while the holes are drilled in the outer
surface of the hose, preferably in the upwardly facing surface,
they could be drilled at various levels to effect various levels of
spray. Additionally, 0.25'' long grommets 26 could be inserted into
the holes to form channels which would not tend to close as could
be the case if the passageways formed by the holes do not have
adequate support. The inserts 26 could be cylindrical, or taper
slightly inwardly from top to bottom for easier insertion. The
grommets 26 are formed from a rigid or semi-rigid material such as
metal or appropriate plastic, such that their walls would
frictionally engage with the walls of the holes once punched or
drilled.
[0029] There is also disclosed in FIG. 2, a modified embodiment of
the invention. Here is disclosed a trampoline 110 having secured
integrally thereto a water conduit 112 by means for securing the
conduit to the trampoline 114. In this modified embodiment of the
invention, the securing is shown as taking place on the
trampoline's upper surface 116.
[0030] The water conduit 112 has a water supply inlet 120 and a
plurality of water discharging outlets 125. The water supply inlet
120 is preferably of a first diameter, and the water discharging
outlets 125 are preferably of a second diameter, with the first
diameter being greater than the second diameter.
[0031] Although the water supply inlet 120 preferably includes a
diverter 130, with the diverter 130 creating at least two flow
paths 133 and 135 respectively as shown in FIG. 1, it can be
appreciated that a single flow path can be utilized as discussed
above. The trampoline securing means 114 may be selected from a
group which includes cable ties, cooperative hook and loop straps,
grommets, fabric straps, plastic straps, belts, snaps, clasps,
clips, and even an adhesive affixed to the underside of the hose
such that the sidewall of the water conduit is in direct contact
with the top of the trampoline mat. The trampoline securing means
may also be of the form discussed above with respect to the
preferred embodiment of FIG. 1.
[0032] The water conduit itself 112 is preferably fabricated having
a hose connector 140 and a hose 141. As so fabricated, the hose 141
has at least one fitting 142, with the fitting 142 engaging the
hose connector 140. In the preferred embodiment, the hose has two
fittings 142, with each of the fittings engaging a hose connector
140. Each fitting and the hose connector preferably are formed have
cooperating male and female connections, although they could be
squeezed together in a friction fit or one using fasteners, such as
rivets. In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the conduit
is encased in a foam or other covering which provides a cushion in
the event that the user comes into contact with the conduit through
a fall, it being understood that the water discharging outlets pass
through the cover 144 as well.
[0033] In this embodiment, the hose once again is of a diameter of
approximately 0.5''. Also, the majority of the water discharging
outlets are spaced apart from directly adjacent water discharging
outlets a first distance, with the first distance being in the
range of 2-10'', with a distance of 4'' believed to be optimal.
[0034] In actual use, an accessory for trampolines is provided that
facilitates the spraying of individuals while they are using the
trampoline. The water conduit is connected to an outdoor water
spigot and water is caused to flow therethrough. Ultimately, as the
water is forced from the hose through the water discharging
outlets, a spray effect is created. Depending on the spacing of the
water discharging outlets, the diameter of such outlets, the
relative vertical placement of the water discharging outlets, and
the water pressure of the water flowing through the hose, the size,
force, and distribution of the water droplets in the spray can be
controlled.
[0035] Another aspect of this invention is that in the form of the
invention wherein the invention is sold as a trampoline accessory,
it can easily be installed on a trampoline. On the other hand, in
the case of the integral trampoline embodiment, the device can be
easily incorporated into a trampoline's design.
[0036] Still another aspect of this invention is that it can be
made to be aesthetically pleasing, especially to young children, by
the use of colorful hose or hose covers and colorful connectors.
For older children and teens, the colors chosen could reflect
professional, collegiate, or high school team colors. Thus, the
components of this entertaining product would be extremely
affordable.
[0037] While the form of apparatus herein described constitutes a
preferred embodiment of the present invention, it is to be
understood that the invention is not limited to this precise form
of apparatus and that changes may be made therein without departing
from the scope of the invention which is defined in the appended
claims.
* * * * *