U.S. patent application number 14/250253 was filed with the patent office on 2014-10-16 for base system.
The applicant listed for this patent is Christopher J. De Michele. Invention is credited to Christopher J. De Michele.
Application Number | 20140309092 14/250253 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 51687174 |
Filed Date | 2014-10-16 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140309092 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
De Michele; Christopher J. |
October 16, 2014 |
Base System
Abstract
A base system configured for use in an exercise or physical
therapy by a user as a base, the base system includes a first
segment and a second segment. Each of the first and second segments
includes a portion of cylinder having a surface perpendicular to
its central axis and a surface at an incline to its central axis.
In forming a base, the first and second segments are arranged such
that the second segment is rotatably disposed atop the first
segment, where the angle of rotation of the second segment with
respect to the first segment causes the resulting base to assume a
certain incline.
Inventors: |
De Michele; Christopher J.;
(Venice, FL) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
De Michele; Christopher J. |
Venice |
FL |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
51687174 |
Appl. No.: |
14/250253 |
Filed: |
April 10, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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61810527 |
Apr 10, 2013 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
482/142 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 22/16 20130101;
A63B 23/0458 20130101; A63B 21/068 20130101; A63B 21/4015 20151001;
A63B 21/00178 20130101; A63B 21/0552 20130101; A63B 2209/02
20130101; A63B 2071/0072 20130101; A63B 22/18 20130101; A63B 26/00
20130101; A63B 2210/50 20130101; A63B 21/0442 20130101; A63B
21/4033 20151001; A63B 2071/025 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/142 |
International
Class: |
A63B 26/00 20060101
A63B026/00 |
Claims
1. A base system comprising: (a) a first segment having a central
axis, a base disposed in a first flat plane on a lower portion of
said first segment and an interface ring disposed in a second flat
plane on an upper portion of said first segment, wherein said first
flat plane is disposed at a first angle to said central axis of
said first segment and said second flat plane is substantially
perpendicular to said central axis of said first segment; and (b) a
second segment having a central axis, a lower interface ring
disposed in a third flat plane on a lower portion of said second
segment and an upper surface disposed in a fourth flat plane on an
upper portion of said second segment, wherein said third flat plane
is substantially perpendicular to said central axis of said second
segment and said fourth flat plane is disposed at a second angle to
said central axis of said second segment, wherein said lower
interface ring of said second segment is removably and rotatably
coupleable with said interface ring of said first segment such that
said upper surface is disposed at an angle from about 0 degrees to
a third angle that is greater than 0 degrees to said first flat
plane.
2. The base system of claim 1, wherein said first segment further
comprises a receptacle adapted to receive a spherical object and
said receptacle is disposed within said first segment.
3. The base system of claim 1, wherein said upper surface comprises
a receptacle adapted to receive a spherical object.
4. The base system of claim 1, wherein said first angle ranges from
about 85 degrees to about 67.5 degrees.
5. The base system of claim 1, wherein said second angle ranges
from about 85 degrees to about 67.5 degrees.
6. The base system of claim 1, wherein said third angle ranges from
about 0 degree to about 45 degrees.
7. The base system of claim 1, wherein any one of said lower
interface ring of said second segment and said interface ring of
said first segment is constructed from a material selected from the
group consisting of thrust bearing, ball bearing, acetal,
polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), silicone, plastic, lubricant,
application of paint, and application of dry film lubricant.
8. The base system of claim 1, further comprising at least one
first indicator disposed on said first segment and at least one
second indicator disposed on said second segment, wherein said at
least one second indicator is configured to be matched with said at
least one first indicator to indicate that said first segment is
disposed at a pre-determined orientation with respect to said
second segment.
9. The base system of claim 1, wherein at least one of said first
segment and said second segment further comprises a plurality of
wheels.
10. A base system comprising: (a) a first segment having a central
axis, a base disposed in a first flat plane on a lower portion of
said first segment and an interface ring disposed in a second flat
plane on an upper portion of said first segment, wherein said first
flat plane is disposed at a first angle to said central axis of
said first segment and said second flat plane is substantially
perpendicular to said central axis of said first segment; (b) a
second segment having a central axis, a lower interface ring
disposed in a third flat plane on a lower portion of said second
segment and an upper interface ring disposed in a fourth flat plane
on an upper portion of said second segment, wherein said fourth
flat plane is disposed at a fourth angle to said central axis of
said second segment, said third flat plane is substantially
perpendicular to said central axis of said second segment and said
lower interface ring of said second segment is removably and
rotatably coupleable with said interface ring of said first segment
such that said fourth flat plane is disposed at an angle from about
0 degrees to an angle that is greater than 0 degrees to said first
flat plane; and (c) a saucer including a plate having a first flat
surface and a second surface, a circular flange having an upper
interface ring disposed on an upper portion of said flange and a
lower interface ring disposed on a lower portion of said flange,
wherein said plate is disposed within said circular flange and said
saucer is configured such that any one of said upper interface ring
of said saucer and said lower interface ring of said saucer is
capable of being removably and rotatably coupled to said interface
ring of said first segment and any one of said upper interface ring
of said saucer and said lower interface ring of said saucer is
capable of being removably and rotatably coupled to said upper
interface ring of said second segment.
11. The base system of claim 10, wherein said second surface is
selected from a material selected from the group consisting of a
flat surface and a convex surface.
12. The base system of claim 10, wherein said first segment further
comprises a receptacle adapted to receive a spherical object and
said receptacle is disposed within said first segment.
13. The base system of claim 10, wherein said second segment
further comprises a receptacle adapted to receive a spherical
object and said receptacle is disposed within said second
segment.
14. The base system of claim 10, wherein said first angle ranges
from about 85 degrees to about 67.5 degrees.
15. The base system of claim 10, wherein said first angle ranges
from about 85 degrees to about 67.5 degrees.
16. The base system of claim 10, wherein said first angle ranges
from about 0 degree to about 45 degrees.
17. The base system of claim 10, wherein said saucer is constructed
from a material selected from the group consisting of foam, rubber,
silicone, plastic and any combinations thereof.
18. The base system of claim 10, wherein any one of said lower
interface ring of said second segment and said interface ring of
said first segment is constructed from a material selected from the
group consisting of thrust bearing, ball bearing, acetal,
polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), silicone, plastic, lubricant,
application of paint, and application of dry film.
19. The base system of claim 10, further comprising at least one
first indicator disposed on said first segment and at least one
second indicator disposed on said second segment, wherein said at
least one second indicator is configured to be matched with said at
least one first indicator to indicate that said first segment is
disposed at a pre-determined orientation with respect to said
second segment.
20. The base system of claim 10, wherein at least one of said first
segment and said second segment further comprises a plurality of
wheels.
Description
PRIORITY CLAIM AND RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This non-provisional application claims the benefit of
priority from provisional application U.S. Ser. No. 61/810,527
filed on Apr. 10, 2013. Said application is incorporated by
reference in its entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. The Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention is directed generally to a base system
for use in body conditioning. More specifically, the present
invention is directed to a base system for use in exercise or
physical rehabilitation, the system including a plurality of
separable components, each may be used separately or in combination
with another.
[0004] 2. Background Art
[0005] Functional training, core fitness, and physical
rehabilitation practices require repeatable consistent and variable
movement patterns through single and multiple, vertical and
horizontal planes and axes. User defined adjustability of equipment
is essential for safety and to maximize physical conditioning.
Conventional conditioning equipment typically limits user
adjustability and/or motion to a predetermined single plane or
axis, e.g., flat, inclined, declined, vertical or horizontal
rotation, etc. Existing powered, non-powered and self-powered
equipment substantially limits adjustability and/or range of motion
in ways which do not allow user to substantially dynamically modify
their predetermined horizontal and vertical planes, axes, or paths
on-the-fly while performing movement or exercise. Some powered
equipment, e.g., treadmills, stair climbers, ab coasters, etc.,
allow a limited degree of on-the-fly modification of elevation,
e.g., in horizontal plane and vertical axis, etc. However these
units are limited to lower body movements, e.g., walking, stepping,
striding, jogging, running, crunches, etc.
[0006] U.S. Pat. No. 4,905,994 to Hartz (hereinafter Hartz)
discloses a tilting rotational recreational device which has a
platform on which the user stands, where the platform is freely
rotatable upon a bearing. The angle of the platform with respect to
the horizontal may be adjusted so that a user standing or sitting
on the platform may induce rotational movement of the platform
easily by shifting his or her center of mass. Hartz's cylindrical
column sections (24 and 26 of Hartz) are held together in an
axially aligned relationship by bolt (40 of Hartz) secured by
wingnut (42 of Hartz). As Hartz's bolt (40 of Hartz) is centrally
disposed with respect to the cylindrical column sections (24 and 26
of Hartz), it is incapable of providing a receptacle for receiving
an exercise ball. Although Hartz's platform (30 of Hartz) is
capable of rotation about a tilted axis of rotation, the surface
upon which a user steps, moves or rotates in the same plane and
incapable of providing a surface that moves in multiple planes
while the platform (30 of Hartz) rotates about a tilted axis of
rotation.
[0007] Thus, there is a need for an exercise base system having a
support that can be disposed in a large number of planes while in
use, the degree of incline can be altered with ease, one that is
sufficiently sturdy to support a user performing an exercise
routine and one that is sufficiently light and collapsible such
that it is portable.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] In accordance with the present invention, there is provided
a base system including: [0009] (a) a first segment having a
central axis, a base disposed in a first flat plane on a lower
portion of the first segment and an interface ring disposed in a
second flat plane on an upper portion of the first segment, wherein
the first flat plane is disposed at a first angle to the central
axis of the first segment and the second flat plane is
substantially perpendicular to the central axis of the first
segment; and [0010] (b) a second segment having a central axis, a
lower interface ring disposed in a third flat plane on a lower
portion of the second segment and an upper surface disposed in a
fourth flat plane on an upper portion of the second segment,
wherein the third flat plane is substantially perpendicular to the
central axis of the second segment and the fourth flat plane is
disposed at a second angle to the central axis of the second
segment, wherein the lower interface ring of the second segment is
rotatably coupleable with the interface ring of the first segment
such that the upper surface is disposed at an angle from about 0
degrees to a third angle that is greater than 0 degrees to the
first flat plane.
[0011] In one embodiment, the first segment further includes a
receptacle adapted to receive a spherical object and the receptacle
is disposed within the first segment.
[0012] In one embodiment, the upper surface includes a receptacle
adapted to receive a spherical object. In another embodiment, the
upper surface includes a flat surface.
[0013] In one embodiment, the first angle ranges from about 90
degrees to about 67.5 degrees.
[0014] In on embodiment, the second angle ranges from about 90
degrees to about 67.5 degrees. In one embodiment, the third angle
ranges from about 0 degree to about 45 degrees.
[0015] Suitable materials for the first segment and/or the second
segment include, but not limited to, plastic, metal and fiber
reinforced materials.
[0016] In one embodiment, the upper surface includes a non-slip
surface to provide sufficient grip to a user. In one embodiment,
the base includes a non-slip surface to prevent accidental movement
of the base system.
[0017] Examples of the lower interface ring of the second segment
and the interface ring of the first segment and the lower and upper
interface rings of the saucer include, but not limited to, thrust
bearing, ball bearing, acetal, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE),
silicone, plastic, lubricant, application of paint, application of
dry film, etc.
[0018] In one embodiment, the present base system further includes
a first indicator disposed on the first segment and a second
indicator disposed on the second segment, wherein the second
indicator is configured to be matched with the first indicator to
indicate that the first segment is disposed at a pre-determined
orientation with respect to the second segment.
[0019] In one embodiment, the first segment further includes a
plurality of wheels disposed upon said base of said first segment
to facilitate transporting of the base system and mobility of the
base system when combined with an exercise ball, e.g., to be used
as a seat and instruments for some exercises.
[0020] An object of the present base system is to provide a
mechanism where the incline of the top surface of the base system
is changeable simply by rotating the second segment with respect to
the first segment, where the second segment is disposed atop the
first segment.
[0021] Another object of the present base system is to provide a
mechanism for enhancing functional training, core fitness, physical
rehabilitation, and/or wellness practices. The mechanism is capable
of providing not only a platform whose slope is changeable but
also, a sloped platform capable of rotating about a tilted
axis.
[0022] Another object of the present base system is to provide yet
another rotatable part (e.g., saucer) in addition to the sloped
platform of the second segment.
[0023] Another object of the present base system is to provide a
universe of modular components which may be utilized separately
and/or individually as stand-alone products, or combined with other
components in the system to create static or dynamic multi-plane
and axes movements and exercises.
[0024] Another object of the present system is to provide a
compact, lightweight, modular base system offering users
unprecedented flexibility, mobility, and functionality.
[0025] Whereas there may be many embodiments of the present
invention, each embodiment may meet one or more of the foregoing
recited objects in any combination. It is not intended that each
embodiment will necessarily meet each objective. Thus, having
broadly outlined the more important features of the present
invention in order that the detailed description thereof may be
better understood, and that the present contribution to the art may
be better appreciated, there are, of course, additional features of
the present invention that will be described herein and will form a
part of the subject matter of this specification.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0026] In order that the manner in which the above-recited and
other advantages and objects of the invention are obtained, a more
particular description of the invention briefly described above
will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof which
are illustrated in the appended drawings. Understanding that these
drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are
not therefore to be considered to be limiting of its scope, the
invention will be described and explained with additional
specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings
in which:
[0027] FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of one embodiment of the
present base system, depicting a saucer disposed on a second
segment with a flat surface of the saucer facing upwardly and the
present base system having a substantially level configuration.
[0028] FIG. 2 is top perspective view of one embodiment of the
present base system, depicting a saucer disposed on a second
segment with a flat surface of the saucer facing upwardly and the
present base system disposed in a configuration yielding a saucer
that is disposed with the maximum incline.
[0029] FIG. 3 is essentially the embodiment of the present base
system shown in FIG. 1, with the exception that the saucer is now
disposed with a convex surface facing upwardly.
[0030] FIG. 4 is essentially the embodiment of the present base
system shown in FIG. 2, with the exception that the saucer is now
disposed with a convex surface facing upwardly.
[0031] FIG. 5 is a top perspective exploded view of one embodiment
of the present base system, depicting a saucer disposed with a flat
surface of the saucer facing upwardly.
[0032] FIG. 6 is a top perspective exploded view of one embodiment
of the present base system, depicting a saucer disposed with a
convex surface of the saucer facing upwardly.
[0033] FIG. 7 is a side orthogonal view of one embodiment of the
present base system, depicting the first segment being coupled with
the second segment to form a platform that is substantially
level.
[0034] FIG. 8 is a side orthogonal cross-sectional view of the base
system of FIG. 7 taken along line A-A, depicting the interior
construction details and interface rings of the first, and second
segments and the saucer.
[0035] FIG. 9 is a top perspective cross-sectional view of one
embodiment of the present base system, depicting the interior
construction details and interface rings of the first and second
segments and the saucer.
[0036] FIG. 10 is a side orthogonal view of one embodiment of the
present base system, depicting the first segment being coupled with
the second segment to form a base system that is disposed in a
configuration yielding a saucer that is disposed with the maximum
incline.
[0037] FIG. 11 is a side orthogonal cross-sectional view of the
base system of FIG. 10 taken along line B-B, depicting the interior
construction details of the first and second segments and the
saucer.
[0038] FIG. 12 is essentially the embodiment of the present base
system shown in FIG. 7, with the exception that the saucer is now
disposed with a convex surface facing upwardly.
[0039] FIG. 13 is essentially the embodiment of the present base
system shown in FIG. 8, with the exception that the saucer is now
disposed with a convex surface facing upwardly.
[0040] FIG. 14 is essentially the embodiment of the present base
system shown in FIG. 10, with the exception that the saucer is now
disposed with a convex surface facing upwardly.
[0041] FIG. 15 is essentially the embodiment of the present base
system shown in FIG. 11, with the exception that the saucer is now
disposed with a convex surface facing upwardly.
[0042] FIG. 16 is a side orthogonal view of one embodiment of the
present base system, depicting the angles each of the first and
second segments makes with the base of the first segment.
[0043] FIG. 17 is a side orthogonal view of one embodiment of the
present base system, depicting the second segment being disposed
such that a plane that represents high side-to-low side of the
second segment is disposed substantially perpendicularly to another
plane that represents high side-to-low side of the first
segment.
[0044] FIG. 18 is a side orthogonal cross-sectional view of the
base system of FIG. 17 taken along line E-E, depicting the interior
construction details and interface rings of the first and second
segments and the saucer.
[0045] FIG. 19 is a side orthogonal cross-sectional view of another
embodiment of the present base system, depicting a saucer that
includes two substantially flat surfaces.
[0046] FIG. 20 is a side orthogonal cross-sectional view of one
embodiment of the present base system where an exercise ball is
disposed within openings of the first and second segments and
supported by a receptacle disposed within the second segment.
[0047] FIG. 21 is a side orthogonal cross-sectional view of one
embodiment of the present base system where an exercise ball is
disposed within an opening of the first segment and supported by a
receptacle disposed within the first segment.
[0048] FIG. 22 is a chart depicting various examples of exercises
and other daily activities in which a user may utilize the present
base system.
[0049] FIG. 23 is a side orthogonal view of one embodiment of yet
another usage of the present base system.
[0050] FIG. 24 is a side orthogonal view of another embodiment of
yet another usage of the present base system.
[0051] FIG. 25 is a side cross-sectional view of one embodiment of
the present base system where the upper surface of the second
segment is integrally constructed.
[0052] FIG. 26 illustrates examples of means by which the shapes of
the present segments may be formed.
PARTS LIST
[0053] 2--exercise base system [0054] 4--first segment [0055]
6--second segment [0056] 8--saucer [0057] 10--interface ring of
first segment [0058] 12--lower interface ring of second segment
[0059] 14--upper interface ring of second segment [0060] 16--lower
interface ring of circular flange of saucer [0061] 18--upper
interface ring of circular flange of saucer [0062] 20--receptacle
[0063] 22--convex surface of saucer [0064] 24--circular flange
[0065] 26--angle saucer makes with respect to base of base system
[0066] 28--flat surface of saucer [0067] 30--angle second plane
makes with respect to base of base system [0068] 32--angle fourth
plane makes with respect to third plane [0069] 34--base [0070]
36--first flat plane [0071] 38--second flat plane [0072] 40--third
flat plane [0073] 42--fourth flat plane [0074] 44--ball [0075]
46--wheel [0076] 48--user [0077] 50--elastic band [0078]
52--scalloped portion of first segment [0079] 54--marker [0080]
56--central axis of first segment [0081] 58--central axis of second
segment [0082] 60--cylinder [0083] 62--first cut [0084] 64--second
cut [0085] 66--top piece [0086] 68--bottom piece [0087] 70--central
axis of cylinder [0088] 72--arm rest [0089] 74--back support
PARTICULAR ADVANTAGES OF THE INVENTION
[0090] The present base system provides a user the ability to alter
the incline of a base system expediently, by adjusting the
orientation of a second segment with respect to a first segment
upon which the second segment is disposed.
[0091] The present base system provides a sloped platform rotatable
about a tilted axis where the sloped platform is capable of
rotation while in use.
[0092] The present base system provides yet another rotatable part
(e.g., saucer) disposed on the upper portion of the second segment
which is already capable of rotation while coupled to the first
segment. When coupled directly with the first segment, the saucer
is also capable of rotation with the first segment.
[0093] The present base system provides a user the ability to alter
the incline of a platform from an angle of about 0 degrees to about
90 degrees with respect to the base of the first segment.
[0094] The present base system provides a stable base for securing
an exercise ball using a receptacle disposed within one or more
components of the present base system.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF A PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0095] The term "about" is used herein to mean approximately,
roughly, around, or in the region of. When the term "about" is used
in conjunction with a numerical range, it modifies that range by
extending the boundaries above and below the numerical values set
forth. In general, the term "about" is used herein to modify a
numerical value above and below the stated value by a variance of
20 percent up or down (higher or lower).
[0096] FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of one embodiment of the
present base system 2, depicting a saucer 8 disposed on a second
segment 6 with a flat surface of the saucer 8 facing upwardly and
the present base system 2 having a substantially level
configuration. FIG. 2 is top perspective view of one embodiment of
the present base system 2, depicting a saucer 8 disposed on a
second segment 6 with a flat surface of the saucer 8 facing
upwardly and the present base system 2 disposed in a configuration
yielding a saucer that is disposed with maximum incline. FIG. 3 is
essentially the embodiment of the present base system 2 shown in
FIG. 1, with the exception that the saucer 8 is now disposed with a
convex surface 22 facing upwardly. FIG. 4 is essentially the
embodiment of the present base system 2 shown in FIG. 2, with the
exception that the saucer 8 is now disposed with a convex surface
22 facing upwardly. FIG. 5 is a top perspective exploded view of
one embodiment of the present base system 2, depicting a saucer 8
disposed with a flat surface of the saucer facing upwardly. FIG. 6
is a top perspective exploded view of one embodiment of the present
base system 2, depicting a saucer 8 disposed with a convex surface
22 of the saucer 8 facing upwardly. Referring back to FIG. 1, in
one embodiment, there is further provided at least one first
indicator 54 disposed on the first segment and at least one second
indicator 54 disposed on the second segment. As an example, a
marker 54 is placed on the low side of the first segment. A similar
indicator 54 is also placed on the low side of the second segment.
As the two indicators wherein said at least one second indicator is
configured to be matched with said at least one first indicator to
indicate that said first segment is disposed at a pre-determined
orientation with respect to said second segment.
[0097] Disclosed herein is a base system including a first segment
4 and second segment 6 and a saucer 8. In order to facilitate
discussions of the first and second segments 4, 6, the plane at
which a segment interfaces with another segment is used to
represent, not only the plane where the two segments come in
contact with each other, but also the surface of the segment
associated with that plane.
[0098] The first segment 4 includes a central axis 56, a base 34
disposed in a first flat plane 36 (see FIG. 16) on a lower portion
of the first segment 4 and an interface ring 10 disposed in a
second flat plane 38 (see FIG. 16) on an upper portion of the first
segment 4. The first flat plane 36 is disposed at a first angle to
the central axis 56 of the first segment 4 and the second flat
plane 38 is substantially perpendicular to the central axis 56 of
the first segment 4.
[0099] The second segment 6 includes a central axis 58, a lower
interface ring 12 disposed in a third flat plane 40 (see FIG. 16)
on a lower portion of the second segment 6 and an upper interface
ring 14 disposed in a fourth flat plane 42 (see FIG. 16) on an
upper portion of the second segment 6. The fourth flat plane 42 is
disposed at a fourth angle to the central axis 58 of the second
segment 6. The third flat plane 40 is substantially perpendicular
to the central axis 58 of the second segment 6. The lower interface
ring 12 of the second segment 6 is removably and rotatably
coupleable with the interface ring 10 of the first segment 4 such
that the fourth flat plane 42 is disposed at an angle from about 0
degrees to an angle that is greater than 0 degrees to the first
flat plane 36. In use, the second segment 6 is coupled at its lower
interface ring to the upper interface ring of the first segment 4.
The orientation of the second segment 6 about its central axis
determines the resulting incline of the present base system 2. The
present base system 2 is therefore capable of providing a base that
is level with an object, e.g., floor, upon which it is disposed and
a base that is not level with the object upon which it is disposed.
The need for multiple and separate platforms of various inclines is
therefore rendered unnecessary by the present base system.
[0100] The present base system 2 may be used with or without
relative rotation between the second and first segments 6, 4 while
in use. With rotation, the base system may be used for exercise
routines which are more challenging, often requiring higher
strength to be expended by its user and higher balancing acts
performed by its user, etc. In one embodiment, the interface rings
are simply extensions of materials used to construct the segments,
i.e., the materials used in constructing the segments are the same
materials used in constructing the interface rings, i.e., plastics,
acetal, Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), etc. In another embodiment,
the interface rings are formed separately from the materials used
in constructing the segments. In embodiments where mating interface
rings are made of materials having high coefficient of friction,
the second segment 6 is incapable of rotation relative to the first
segment. In cases where rotation of the second segment with respect
to the first segment is allowed, a number of friction reduction
devices, e.g., thrust bearing, ball bearing, acetal,
Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), and silicone, plastic, lubricant,
application of paint, and application of dry film, etc., may be
utilized.
[0101] The saucer 8 includes a plate having a first flat surface 28
and a second surface, a circular flange 24 having an upper
interface ring 14 disposed on an upper portion of the flange 24 and
a lower interface ring 16 disposed on a lower portion of the flange
24. The plate is disposed within the circular flange 24 and the
saucer 8 is configured such that any one of the upper interface
ring 18 of the saucer 8 and the lower interface ring 16 of the
saucer 8 is capable of being removably and rotatably coupled to the
interface ring 10 of the first segment 4 and any one of the upper
interface ring 18 of the saucer 8 and the lower interface ring 16
of the saucer 8 is capable of being removably and rotatably coupled
to the upper interface ring 18 of the second segment 6. In one
embodiment, the second surface is a flat surface as shown in FIG.
19. In another embodiment, the second surface is a convex surface
22 as shown in FIG. 6. Suitable materials for forming the convex
surface 22 include, but not limited to foam, rubber, silicone,
plastic and any combinations thereof. In a multi-material saucer 8,
a hard material, e.g., plastic, is used to provide structural
strength required to support a user while a soft material, e.g.,
foam, rubber and silicone, provide sufficient cushioning for user
comfort.
[0102] The upper and lower surfaces of the first or second segment
are preferably disposed in a non-parallel fashion. If the upper and
lower surfaces of a segment are parallel, the first or second angle
would be about 90 degrees. Each of the first or second angles
preferably ranges from about 85 degrees to about 45 degrees. More
preferably, for exercises performed on a present base system
disposed on a level floor, each of the first and second angles
ranges from about 85 degrees to about 67.5 degrees. In one
embodiment, the first segment further includes a receptacle 20
useful for receiving a spherical object, e.g., exercise ball, as
will be demonstrated elsewhere herein and the receptacle is
disposed within the first segment 4.
[0103] In one embodiment, the second segment further includes a
receptacle useful for receiving a spherical object, e.g., exercise
ball, as will also be demonstrated elsewhere herein and the
receptacle is disposed within the second segment 6.
[0104] FIG. 7 is a side orthogonal view of one embodiment of the
present base system 2, depicting the first segment 4 being coupled
with the second segment 6 to form a platform that is substantially
level. FIG. 8 is a side orthogonal cross-sectional view of the base
system of FIG. 7 taken along line A-A, depicting the interior
construction details and interface rings of the first and second
segments and the saucer. It shall be noted that, in this
orientation, the high side of the second segment 6 is disposed atop
the low side of the first segment 4. It shall also be noted that
the flat surface 28 of the saucer 8 is disposed substantially
parallelly with the base 34. Therefore, if disposed on a flat level
surface, the present base system 2 provides a substantially level
surface for exercise. The outer surfaces of the segments may be
formed into any shapes, e.g., cylindrical as in the present
embodiment, rectangular, conical, etc., provided that the interface
rings are disposed in a circular fashion to enable relative
rotations of the segments 4, 6.
[0105] FIG. 9 is a top perspective cross-sectional view of one
embodiment of the present base system, depicting the interior
construction details and interface rings of the first and second
segments 4, 6 and the saucer 8. Note the receptacles 20, one
disposed within the first segment 4 and another within the second
segment 6, are configured in the shape of an inverted dome for
receiving spherical objects as will be disclosed elsewhere
herein.
[0106] FIG. 10 is a side orthogonal view of one embodiment of the
present base system 2, depicting the first segment 4 being coupled
with the second segment 6 to form a base system that is disposed in
a configuration yielding a saucer 8 that is disposed in the maximum
incline. FIG. 11 is a side orthogonal cross-sectional view of the
base system of FIG. 10 taken along line B-B, depicting the interior
construction details of the first and second segments 4, 6 and the
saucer 8. It shall be noted that the second segment 6 is disposed
atop the first segment 4 such that the high side of the first
segment coincides with the high side of the second segment 6.
[0107] FIG. 12 is essentially the embodiment of the present base
system shown in FIG. 7, with the exception that the saucer 8 is now
disposed with a convex surface 22 facing upwardly. FIG. 13 is
essentially the embodiment of the present base system shown in FIG.
8, with the exception that the saucer 8 is now disposed with a
convex surface 22 facing upwardly. FIG. 14 is essentially the
embodiment of the present base system shown in FIG. 10, with the
exception that the saucer 8 is now disposed with a convex surface
22 facing upwardly. FIG. 15 is essentially the embodiment of the
present base system shown in FIG. 11, with the exception that the
saucer is now disposed with a convex surface 22 facing upwardly.
Note that when the convex surface 22 is disposed upwardly, it
protrudes from the fourth plane, providing sufficient cushioning to
a user to lessen impacts experienced by the user and making the
base system 2 more comfortable to use.
[0108] FIG. 16 is a side orthogonal view of one embodiment of the
present base system 2, depicting the angles 30, 32 the first and
second segments make with the base of the first segment 4. The
angle the upper surface (not considering the convex surface of the
saucer 8) of second segment 6 makes with the base 34 amounts to an
aggregate (or part 26) of the angle the upper surface of the second
segment 6 makes with the base of the second segment 6 and the angle
the upper surface of the first segment 4 makes with the base of the
first segment 4. Referring back to FIG. 15, in one embodiment,
angle 26 ranges from about 0 degree to about 45 degrees. In a more
preferred embodiment, angle 26 ranges from about 5 degrees to about
25 degrees.
[0109] FIG. 17 is a side orthogonal view of one embodiment of the
present base system 2, depicting the second segment 6 being
disposed such that a plane that represents high side-to-low side of
the second segment 6 is disposed substantially perpendicularly to
another plane that represents high side-to-low side of the first
segment 4. FIG. 18 is a side orthogonal cross-sectional view of the
base system of FIG. 17 taken along line E-E, depicting the interior
construction details and interface rings of the first and second
segments 4, 6 and the saucer 8. Note that in this configuration,
there exists an incline of the upper surface of the second segment
6 that is disposed between the minimum incline, i.e., 0 degree, and
the maximum incline when the high side of the second segment 6 is
disposed atop the high side of the first segment 4.
[0110] FIG. 19 is a side orthogonal cross-sectional view of another
embodiment of the present base system 2, depicting a saucer 8 that
includes two substantially flat surfaces. It shall be noted that in
certain exercise routines, a convex upper surface is
unnecessary.
[0111] FIG. 20 is a side orthogonal cross-sectional view of one
embodiment of the present base system 2 where an exercise ball 44
is disposed within openings of the first and second segments 4, 6
and supported by a receptacle 20 disposed within the second
segment. In this case, the second segment 6 is said to include a
receptacle 20 that is disposed on the fourth flat plane 42. FIG. 21
is a side orthogonal cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the
present base system where an exercise ball 44 is disposed within an
opening of the first segment 4 and supported by a receptacle
disposed within the first segment 4. Disposing an exercise ball 44
in a receptacle 20 immobilizes and stabilizes the ball 44 for use
in an exercise routine where a user may engage it in a variety of
ways.
[0112] FIG. 22 is a chart depicting various examples of exercises
and other daily activities in which a user 48 may utilize the
present base system 2. Starting from the upper left corner, the
diagram depicts a present base system being used for seating
without wheels. The second segment 6 may be fixed or allowed to
rotate. This activates core region, and increases blood flow.
Moving on to the upper right corner, the diagram depicts a crunch
or leg raise performed at maximum incline with the convex surface
22 facing upwardly. Moving on to the middle left diagram, a rear
leg kick is performed by a user 48 while resting on a first segment
with the elbows contacting the high side of the first segment 4 and
the knees contacting the low side of the first segment 4. In the
middle right diagram, a user 48 is shown to perform a rear leg kick
with the elbows resting on a saucer 8 with a convex surface 22
facing upwardly. In the lower left diagram, a warrior yoga pose is
performed with one leg elevated to maximum incline with a convex
surface 22 facing upwardly. In the lower right diagram, a user 48
is shown performing a standing leg kick/knee raise using an
attachable elastic resistance band at 0 degree incline with flat
surface facing upwardly. It shall be noted, in this embodiment, the
first segment 4 includes a scalloped edge 52 configured to
accommodate bands 50 such that they can be tucked in nicely and
secured in place under the combined weight of both the user and the
base system 2. Other examples configured for use with the scalloped
edge 52 includes a rebounder netting, golf net, game surfaces and
backboards, metal base of a handle bar support, etc.
[0113] FIG. 23 is a side orthogonal view of one embodiment of yet
another usage of the present base system 2. In this example, wheels
46, e.g., caster wheels, are removably attached to the base of the
first segment and configured to make the present base system 2
mobile. An exercise ball 44 is disposed within and supported by the
receptacle of the second segment 6 to form a seat. FIG. 24 is a
side orthogonal view of another embodiment of yet another usage of
the present base system. In this example, wheels 46 are removably
attached to the base of the second segment 6 to form a seat. Such
attachments make the present base system a multi-use device capable
of providing a platform for exercise while easily converted to a
seating structure for daily use.
[0114] Although the devices shown in FIGS. 23 and 24 are suitable
for use as a seat without further support features, the Applicant
discovered that further attachments such as arm rests 72 and a back
support 74 can be removably attached to either a first or second
segment 4, 6 to provide additional support to a user that is seated
on the ball 44.
[0115] FIG. 25 is a side cross-sectional view of one embodiment of
the present base system 2 where an upper surface of the second
segment 6 is integrally built into the second segment 6. In this
embodiment, an additional piece of material is not required to fill
the upper surface of the second segment 16.
[0116] In an effort to further clarify the shapes of the present
segments, the following examples are provided. FIG. 26 illustrates
examples of the means by which the shapes of the present segments
may be formed. A cylinder 60 held upright is provided. In producing
a first segment, a first cut 62 is made in a plane that is
non-perpendicular to the central axis 70 of the uncut cylinder 60
to produce a top piece 66 and a bottom piece 64. For ease of
discussions, the central axis of each of the top piece and the
bottom pieces 66, 64 is said to be unchanged from the original
central axis of the uncut cylinder. Note that the top surface of
the top piece 66 remains perpendicular to the central axis of the
top piece 66 and the bottom surface of the top piece 66 now assumes
a surface that is disposed non-perpendicularly to the central axis
of the top piece. The top piece 66 can be thought of as the first
segment and the bottom surface can be thought of as the base of the
first segment. Note that the bottom surface of the bottom piece 68
remains perpendicular to the central axis of the bottom piece and
the top surface of the bottom piece 68 now assumes a surface that
is disposed non-perpendicularly to the central axis of the bottom
piece 68. It is conceivable to make a second cut 64 to each of top
and bottom pieces to result in pieces both whose top and bottom
surfaces are disposed at angles that are non-perpendicular to the
central axis 70.
[0117] A component of the present base system may be manufactured
in a variety of materials and compounds, and through a variety of
production and fabrication processes.
[0118] Materials include and are not limited to virgin and recycled
semi-rigid and rigid plastic, foam, and glass, metal, wood,
fiber-reinforced materials. Processes include and are not limited
to thermo/vacuum/pressure forming, blow molding, rotational
molding, various forms of injection molding, compression molding,
open pour/gravity molding, extruding, laminating, multi-axis and
robotic Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machining and routing,
stamping, laser cutting, bending, welding, riveting, dying and
sewing, etc.
[0119] The detailed description refers to the accompanying drawings
that show, by way of illustration, specific aspects and embodiments
in which the present disclosed embodiments may be practiced. These
embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those
skilled in the art to practice aspects of the present invention.
Other embodiments may be utilized, and changes may be made without
departing from the scope of the disclosed embodiments. The various
embodiments can be combined with one or more other embodiments to
form new embodiments. The detailed description is, therefore, not
to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present
invention is defined only by the appended claims, with the full
scope of equivalents to which they may be entitled. It will be
appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that any
arrangement that is calculated to achieve the same purpose may be
substituted for the specific embodiments shown. This application is
intended to cover any adaptations or variations of embodiments of
the present invention. It is to be understood that the above
description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive,
and that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is for the
purpose of description and not of limitation. Combinations of the
above embodiments and other embodiments will be apparent to those
of skill in the art upon studying the above description. The scope
of the present disclosed embodiments includes any other
applications in which embodiments of the above structures and
fabrication methods are used. The scope of the embodiments should
be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the
full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.
* * * * *