BODY BALL CHAIR

Abstract

A device comprises a frame structure that is movable between a first orientation and a second orientation. The frame structure comprise a pair of arcuate lower frame portion, a pair of intermediate frame portions, a pair of forward frame portions, a rearward lower frame portion, and a pair of vertical frame portions. When the frame structure is in the first orientation, the pair of arcuate lower frame portions is configured for placement on the ground surface and the pair of intermediate frame portions and the pair of vertical frame portions are configured for receiving and retaining an exercise ball therebetween. When the frame structure is in the second orientation, the rearward lower frame portion and the pair of vertical frame portions are configured for placement on the ground surface, and the pair of forward frame portions is adapted for engagement with a user's hands for performing exercises.

Description

BACKGROUND

FIELD

The present patent application relates to exercise devices.

Exercise devices are known. There is always a need to provide exercise devices that are versatile to enable different exercises the can work different muscles. The present patent application provides improvements over pre-existing prior art devices.

SUMMARY

One aspect of the present patent application provides an exercise device that includes a frame structure. The frame structure is movable between a first orientation and a second orientation and includes a pair of arcuate lower frame portions, a pair of intermediate frame portions, a pair of forward frame portions, a rearward lower frame portion, and a pair of vertical frame portions. Each of the pair of arcuate lower frame portions has a first end and an opposing, second end. The lower frame portions are configured to engage a horizontal surface in spaced relationship from one another. Each of the pair of intermediate frame portions has a first end and an opposing, second end, positioned in spaced relationship from one another and disposed higher than the arcuate lower frame portions when engaging the horizontal surface in the first orientation. The pair of forward frame portions is constructed and arranged to connect the pair of arcuate lower frame portions and the intermediate frame portions at their respective first ends. The pair of forward frame portions extends substantially transversely to the pair of arcuate lower frame portions and the pair of intermediate frame portions. The rearward lower frame portion is disposed at the second ends of the arcuate lower frame portions. The pair of vertical frame portions extends upwardly from the second ends of the pair of intermediate frame portions, when the frame structure is in the first orientation. When the frame structure is in the first orientation, the pair of arcuate lower frame portions is configured for placement on the horizontal surface and the pair of intermediate frame portions is configured for receiving and retaining an exercise ball therebetween. When the frame structure is in the second orientation, the rearward lower frame portion and the pair of vertical frame portions are configured for placement on the horizontal surface, and the pair of forward frame portions is positioned towards the top of the frame structure so as to be adapted for engagement with user's hands for performing exercises.

Another aspect of the present patent application provides an exercise device that includes a frame structure and an exercise ball. The frame structure includes a pair of arcuate lower frame portions, a pair of intermediate frame portions, a pair of forward frame portions, a rearward lower frame portion, and a pair of vertical frame portions. Each of the pair of arcuate lower frame portions has a first end and an opposing, second end. The lower frame portions are configured to engage a horizontal surface in spaced relationship from one another. Each of the pair of intermediate frame portions has a first end and an opposing, second end, positioned in spaced relationship from one another and disposed higher than the arcuate lower frame portions. The pair of forward frame portions are constructed and arranged to connect the pair of arcuate lower frame portions and the intermediate frame portions at their respective first ends. The pair of forward frame portions extends substantially transversely to the pair of arcuate lower frame portions and the pair of intermediate frame portions. The rearward lower frame portion is disposed at the second ends of the arcuate lower frame portions. The pair of vertical frame portions extends upwardly from the second ends of the pair of intermediate frame portions. When the pair of arcuate lower frame portions is configured for placement on the horizontal surface, the pair of intermediate frame portions is configured for receiving and retaining an exercise ball therebetween. The exercise ball is positioned at least in part between the intermediate frame portions.

Another aspect of the present patent application provides an exercise device that includes a frame structure. The frame structure is movable between a first orientation and a second orientation and includes a pair of arcuate lower frame portions, a pair of intermediate frame portions, a pair of forward frame portions, a rearward lower frame portion, and a pair of vertical frame portions. Each arcuate lower frame portions has a first end and an opposing, second end. The lower frame portions have curved rocking surfaces that are configured to engage a horizontal surface in spaced relationship from one another. Each intermediate frame portions has a first end and an opposing, second end, positioned in spaced relationship from one another and disposed higher than the arcuate lower frame portions when engaging the horizontal surface in the first orientation. The pair of forward frame portions is constructed and arranged to connect the pair of arcuate lower frame portions and the intermediate frame portions at their respective first ends. The pair of forward frame portions extends substantially transversely to the pair of arcuate lower frame portions and the pair of intermediate frame portions. The rearward lower frame portion is disposed at the second ends of the arcuate lower frame portions. The pair of vertical frame portions extends upwardly from the second ends of the pair of intermediate frame portions, when the frame structure is in the first orientation. When the frame structure is in the first orientation, the pair of arcuate lower frame portions is configured for placement on the horizontal surface on its curved rocking surface such that the frame structure will rock in a single rocking direction, and the pair of intermediate frame portions is configured for receiving and retaining an exercise ball therebetween. When the frame structure is in the second orientation, the rearward lower frame portion and the pair of vertical frame portions is configured for placement on the horizontal surface, and the pair of forward frame portions is positioned towards the top of the frame structure so as to be adapted for engagement with user's hands for performing exercises

Another aspect of the present patent application provides an exercise device that includes a frame structure and an exercise ball. The frame structure includes a pair of arcuate lower frame portions, a pair of intermediate frame portions, a pair of forward frame portions, a rearward lower frame portion, and a pair of vertical frame portions. Each of the pair of arcuate lower frame portions has a first end and an opposing, second end. The lower frame portions have curved rocking surfaces that are configured to engage a horizontal surface in spaced relationship from one another. Each of the pair of intermediate frame portions has a first end and an opposing, second end, positioned in spaced relationship from one another and disposed higher than the arcuate lower frame portions. The pair of forward frame portions is constructed and arranged to connect the pair of arcuate lower frame portions and the intermediate frame portions at their respective first ends. The pair of forward frame portions extends substantially transversely to the pair of arcuate lower frame portions and the pair of intermediate frame portions. The rearward lower frame portion is disposed at the second ends of the arcuate lower frame portions. The pair of vertical frame portions extends upwardly from the second ends of the pair of intermediate frame portions. When the pair of arcuate lower frame portions is configured for placement on the horizontal surface, the pair of arcuate lower frame portions is configured for placement on the horizontal surface on its curved rocking surface such that the frame structure will rock in a single rocking direction, and the pair of intermediate frame portions is configured for receiving and retaining an exercise ball therebetween. The exercise ball is positioned at least in part between the intermediate frame portions.

These and other aspects of the present patent application, as well as the methods of operation and functions of the related elements of structure and the combination of parts and economies of manufacture, will become more apparent upon consideration of the following description and the appended claims with reference to the accompanying drawings, all of which form a part of this specification, wherein like reference numerals designate corresponding parts in the various figures. In one embodiment of the present patent application, the structural components illustrated herein are drawn to scale. It is to be expressly understood, however, that the drawings are for the purpose of illustration and description only and are not intended as a definition of the limits of the present patent application. It shall also be appreciated that the features of one embodiment disclosed herein can be used in other embodiments disclosed herein. As used in the specification and in the claims, the singular form of “a”, “an”, and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Various embodiments will now be disclosed, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings in which corresponding reference symbols indicate corresponding parts, in which

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of an exercise device, wherein the exercise device comprises a frame structure being positioned in a first orientation and an exercise ball, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 shows a side view of the exercise device, wherein the exercise device comprises the frame structure being positioned in a first orientation and the exercise ball, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 shows a top view of the exercise device, wherein the exercise device comprises the frame structure being positioned in a first orientation and the exercise ball, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 4 shows a front view of the exercise device, wherein the exercise device comprises the frame structure being positioned in a first orientation and the exercise ball, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 5 shows a rear view of the exercise device, wherein the exercise device comprises the frame structure being positioned in a first orientation and the exercise ball, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 6 shows another side view of the exercise device, wherein the exercise device comprises the frame structure being positioned in a first orientation with its various dimensions being illustrated, and the exercise ball being compressed, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 7 shows another perspective view of the exercise device, wherein the exercise device comprises the frame structure being positioned in a first orientation with a pair of vertical frame portions being tied by a seat back, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 8 shows a side view of the exercise device, wherein the exercise device comprises the frame structure being positioned in a second orientation, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 9 shows an end view of the exercise device, wherein the exercise device comprises the frame structure being positioned in a second orientation, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 10 shows a perspective view of the exercise device, wherein the exercise device comprises the frame structure being positioned in a second orientation, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIGS. 11-14 show a perspective view of the exercise device, wherein the exercise device comprises the frame structure being positioned in a second orientation, and a user with his hands engaging the exercise device performing exercises, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 15 shows an upper front view of an exercise device, wherein the exercise device comprises a frame structure being positioned in a first orientation and an exercise ball, in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 16 shows an upper front view of an exercise device, wherein the exercise device comprises the frame structure being positioned in a first orientation and a different exercise ball, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 17 shows an upper front view of an exercise device, wherein the exercise device comprises the frame structure being positioned in a first orientation and a different exercise ball, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 17A shows a perspective view of an upper frame portion, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 17B shows a perspective view of a rearward frame portion, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 17C shows an upper front view of an exercise device, wherein the exercise device comprises the frame structure being positioned in a first orientation and an exercise ball, with a demonstration that the upper frame portion being adjusted to be in a broader width, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 18 shows a front view of an exercise device, wherein the exercise device comprises a frame structure being positioned in a first orientation, with a pair of vertical frame portions being tied by a seat back, in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 19 shows a rear view of the exercise device, wherein the exercise device comprises the frame structure being positioned in the first orientation, with the pair of vertical frame portions being tied by the seat back, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 20 shows a perspective view of the exercise device, wherein the exercise device comprises the frame structure being positioned in the first orientation, with the pair of vertical frame portions being tied by the seat back, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 21 shows a front view of the exercise device, wherein the exercise device comprises the frame structure being positioned in the first orientation, with the pair of vertical frame portions being tied by the seat back, and an exercise ball, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 22 shows a rear view of the exercise device, wherein the exercise device comprises the frame structure being positioned in the first orientation, with the pair of vertical frame portions being tied by the seat back, and the exercise ball, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 23 shows a perspective view of the exercise device, wherein the exercise device comprises the frame structure being positioned in the first orientation, with the pair of vertical frame portions being tied by the seat back, and the exercise ball, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 24 shows another perspective view of an exercise device, wherein the exercise device comprises a frame structure being positioned in a first orientation, with a pair of intermediate frame portions carrying a seat member, in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 24A shows a top view of the seat member, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 24B shows a side view of one end of the seat member, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 25 shows a perspective view of the exercise device, wherein the exercise device comprises the frame structure being positioned in the first orientation, with the pair of intermediate frame portions carrying another seat member, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 25A shows a bottom view of the seat member, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 26 shows a side view of an exercise device, wherein the exercise device comprises a frame structure being positioned in a first orientation, with a pair of intermediate frame portions carrying a seat member, two front stop members, two rear stop members and two upper stop members, in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 27A shows a partial enlarged view of the front stop members, when the frame structure is positioned in the first orientation, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 27B shows another partial enlarged view of the front stop members being positioned to restrict the range of a forward movement of the frame structure, when the frame structure is positioned in the first orientation, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 28 shows a partial enlarged view of the rear stop members, when the frame structure is positioned in the first orientation, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 29A shows a partial enlarged view of the upper stop members, when the frame structure is positioned in the first orientation, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 29B shows a partial enlarged view of the upper stop members, when the frame structure is positioned in a second orientation, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 30A shows a partial enlarged view of one of the upper stop members, when the upper stop member is not engaged with the frame structure, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 30B shows a partial enlarged view of a upwardly extending frame portion, when the upper stop member is not engaged with from the frame structure being positioned in the first orientation, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 30C shows a partial enlarged view of the upper stop member engaged with the upwardly extending frame portions when the frame structure is positioned in the second orientation, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure; and

FIG. 30D shows a partial enlarged view of the rear stop member engaged with the rearward lower frame portion, when the frame structure is positioned in the first orientation, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIGS. 1-14 show an exercise device 101 that comprises a frame structure 102 and an exercise ball 112 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The frame structure 102 further comprises a pair of arcuate lower frame portions 103 and 104, a pair of intermediate frame portions 105 and 106, a pair of forward frame portions 107 and 108, a rearward connecting frame portion 109, and a pair of vertical frame portion 110 and 111. In some embodiments, the frame structure further includes an upper frame portion 121 that includes a pair of upwardly extending members 122 and 123, a connecting member 124, and an optional head rest 125. The connecting member 124 extends through the head rest 125, and thus cannot been seen in its entirety in the FIGS. 1-10. In one embodiment, the frame structure is constructed of steel material. In another embodiment, the frame structure is constructed of aluminum material,

FIG. 1 shows the frame structure 102 being positioned in a first orientation with the pair of lower frame portions 103 and 104 engaging a ground surface S and the exercise ball 112 being positioned at least in part between the pair of intermediate frame portions 105 and 106. In one embodiment the exercise ball 112 may also be disposed between both the pair of intermediate frame portions 105 and 106 and the pair of vertical frame portions 110 and 111, so that the exercise ball 112 at least contacts both vertical frame portions 110 and 111.

FIGS. 1 and 9 show the pair of arcuate lower frame portions 103 and 104, each have a first end 113 and 114, and an opposing, second end 115 and 116. The pair of arcuate lower frame portions 103 and 104 are severally parallel (loosely speaking) to the intermediate frame portions 105 and 106. The pair of vertical frame portions 110 and 111 is curved to receive and engage the exercise ball 112.

The rearward second ends 115, 116 of the lower accurate frame portions 103, 104, along with the rearward connecting frame portion 109, form a rearward lower frame portion 90. However, the rearward connecting frame portion 109 may be omitted in some embodiments.

FIG. 3 shows the pair of intermediate frame portions 105 and 106, each having a first end 117 and 118, and an opposing second end 119 and 120. The pair of two lower frame portions 103 and 104 is configured in spaced, generally parallel relationship with one another.

FIGS. 1 and 4 show the pair of forward frame portions 107 and 108 being positioned in spaced, generally parallel relationship with one another. The pair of forward frame portions 107 and 108 connects the pair of arcuate lower frame portions 103 and 104, and the intermediate frame portions 105 and 106, at their respective first ends, i.e., 113 and 117, 114 and 118. The intermediate frame portions 105 and 106 are curved (bulged) outwards (as seen in FIG. 4) to receive and retain the exercise ball 112, which also engages the ground surface S at its bottom surface B.

FIG. 5 shows the upper frame portion 121 extending from the vertical frame portions 110 and 111, and is positioned above the pair of vertical frame portions 110 and 111. The upper frame portion 121 further comprises a pair of upwardly extending members 122 and 123 that extend from vertical frame portions 110 and 111, and a head rest 125 that is positioned between the two upwardly extending members 122 and 123. The head rest 125 is positioned substantially transverse to the vertical frame portions 110 and 111. A width of the upper frame portion 121 tapers to become narrower as it extends away from the pair of vertical frame portions 110 and 111 towards head rest 125. In one embodiment, the vertical frame portions 110 and 111 may be parallel (or vertical) to each other.

FIG. 6 illustrates various dimensions of one embodiment of the frame structure 102. In one embodiment, the height of the intermediate frame portions 105 and 106 from ground surface S is between 25% and 45% of the total height of the frame structure 102. In one embodiment, the dimensions shown here illustrate the height of the intermediate frame portions from ground surface is less than 30% of the total height of the frame structure. FIG. 6 also illustrates the top of the ball being compressed, for example, as a result of a user sitting thereon. Note the bottom portions of exercise ball 112 are not deformed as much, because the round of the ball is retained at the bottom by the frame structure 102. FIG. 7 shows another embodiment of frame structure 102, wherein it is provided with a seat back 729. The frame structure 102 is shown positioned in a first orientation with the exercised ball 112 being removed, and the pair of vertical frame portions 110 and 111 being tied by the seat back 729. The seat back 729 is attached to each of the pair of vertical frame portions 110 and 111, by its sleeve members 732 and 734, which receive the pair of vertical frame portions 110 and 111, respectively. In one embodiment, the seat back 729 also includes a mesh material 736 sewn between the sleeve members 732 and 734 as shown. The seat back 729 may have other forms (shapes and configurations) as described later.

This feature of the seat back 729 connecting the pair of vertical frame portions 110 and 111 may be applied to all other embodiments described herein.

While FIGS. 1-7 show the frame structure 102 in a first orientation with the bottom arcuate surface of lower frame portions 103, 104 engaging the ground surface S, FIGS. 8-14 show the frame structure 102 in a second orientation, wherein the rearward lower frame portion 90 and the pair of vertical frame portions 110 and 111 are configured for placement on the ground surface S, and the pair of forward frame portions 107 and 108 is positioned towards the top of the frame structure 102 so as to be adapted for engagement with a user's hands for performing exercises. FIGS. 11-14 further illustrate a user performing different exercises when the frame structure 102 is positioned in the second orientation as described above.

It should be appreciated that, with respect to rearward lower frame portion 90, if the rearward connecting frame portion 109 is omitted, then only the rearward ends 115, 116 are configured to engage the ground surface S when the device is in the second orientation. Also, if the connecting frame portion 109 is provided, then it may be that only the connecting frame portions 109 (and not rearward ends 115, 116) engages the ground surface S when in the second orientation. In either case, the rearward lower frame portion 90 should be considered to engage ground surface S in the second orientation.

The frame structure 102 is movable between the first orientation and the second orientation. When the frame structure 102 is positioned in the first orientation, the exercise ball 112 may either be positioned between the pair of intermediate frame portions 105 and 106, and the pair of vertical frame portions 110 and 111, or otherwise be removed from the frame structure 102. This feature of the frame structure 102 described in this paragraph may also be applied to all other embodiments described therein.

FIGS. 15-17 show three alternative embodiments of an exercise device 1501 with a same frame structure 1502 and three different exercise balls 1512, 1612 and 1712 of different diameters in accordance with three other embodiments of the present disclosure. A width of an upper frame portion 1521 of the frame structure 1502 is adjustable. The upper frame portion 1521 may be fixed at adjustable widths to fit different exercise balls of different diameters.

FIG. 15 shows an embodiment in accordance with the present disclosure. This embodiment is similar to the embodiment previously described in FIGS. 1-14, except for the differences as noted below. As seen in FIG. 15, in one embodiment, the width of the upper frame portion 1521 may generally be adjusted to be equal to a distance between a pair of arcuate lower frame portions 1503 and 1504. A pair of vertical frame portions 1510 and 1511 is generally vertical to a ground surface S′. The upper frame portion 1521 comprises a pair of inwardly extending members 1522 and 1523 that is integrally formed with vertical frame portions 1510 and 1511, respectively, and extends toward one another. The upper frame portion 1521 further comprises a connecting member 1524. The connecting member 1524 connects the pair of inwardly extending members 1522 and 1523 by two fasteners 1537 and 1538 through aligned holes in the connecting member 1524 and the pair of inwardly extending members 1522 and 1523, as further described later. A width of the upper frame portion 1521 is adjustable by inserting the fasteners 1537 and 1538 through different holes in the connecting member 1524. The exercise ball 1521 is positioned between the pair of intermediate frame portions 1505 and 1506. A diameter of the exercise ball 1512 in FIG. 15 is 55 cm. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 15, 16 and 17, 17A and 17C, the pair of upwardly extending members 122 and 123 is referred to as the pair of inwardly extending members 1522 and 1523.

FIG. 16 shows an embodiment in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure. This embodiment is similar to the embodiment described in FIG. 15, except for the difference that the width of the upper frame portion 1521 is adjusted to be broader than the width of the upper frame portion 1521 as described in FIG. 15, and is fixed to fit an exercise ball 1612 of a large diameter (65 cm in this example).

FIGS. 17, 17A, 17B and 17C show another embodiment of the present disclosure. This embodiment is similar to the embodiment described in FIGS. 1, 15 and 16, except for the difference that the width of the upper frame portion 1721 is adjusted to be broader than the width of the upper frame portion 1521 in the embodiment described in FIGS. 15 and 16, and is fixed to fit an exercise ball 1712 of an even larger 75 cm diameter.

FIG. 17A further illustrates the upper frame portion 1521 comprises the pair of inwardly extending frame portions 1522 and 1523 and the connecting member 1524. The tubular connecting member 1524 may be inserted into the pair of tubular, inwardly extending frame portions 1522 and 1523. There are a plurality of (e.g., three) holes 1540, 1541 and 1542 (hidden under the inwardly extending frame portions 1523 and is not shown in FIG. 17A) in the connecting member 1524, and there is one hole 1543 and 1544 in each of the pair of inwardly extending frame portions 1522 and 1523 respectively. The connecting member 1524 may be inserted into and connect the pair of inwardly extending frame portions 1522 and 1523. A width of the upper frame portion 1521 may be fixed by passing fasteners 1537 and 1538 (as shown in FIG. 17) through aligned holes 1543 and 1544 in the inwardly extending frame portions 1522 and 1523 and selected holes 1540, 1541 or 1542 in the connecting member 1524. The further apart the selected holes are in connecting member 1524, the wider the upper frame portion 1521 will be. In one embodiment, the natural resilience of the tubular frame structure 1502 is configured to allow the frame portions 1522 and 1523 to be moved closer or further from each other.

In one embodiment, a rearward frame portion (such as rearward frame portion 109 in FIG. 1) may also be adjustable. For example, FIG. 17B illustrate a rearward frame portion 1709 of the frame structure 1702 shown in FIGS. 1, 15, 16 and 17. It shows the rearward frame portion 1709 comprises a rearward connecting member 1729, and a pair of inwardly extending rearward frame portions 1727 and 1728. There are a plurality of (e.g. three) holes 1740, 1741 and 1742 in the connecting member 1729 and there is one hole 1743 and 1744 in each of the pair of inwardly extending rearward frame portions 1727 and 1728, respectively. The rearward connecting member 1729 may be inserted into and connect the pair of inwardly extending rearward frame portions 1727 and 1728 A width of the rearward frame portion 1709 may be fixed by passing fasteners though aligned holes 1743 and 1744 in the pair of inwardly extending rearward frame portions 1727 and 1728 and selected holes 1740, 1741 or 1742 in the rearward connecting member 1729. The further apart the selected holes are in rearward connecting member 1729, the wider the rearward frame portion 1709 will be. In one embodiment, the natural resilience of the tubular frame structure 1702 is configured to allow the frame portions 1727 and 1728 to be moved closer or further from each other. In one embodiment, the width of the rearward frame portion 1729 is configured to be adjusted in accordance with the adjustment of the width of the upper frame portion 1521. In one embodiment, the upper frame portion 1521 and the rearward frame portion 1729 are both adjusted by the same amount, such that both portions are being widened by two hole positions rather than one of them being adjusted by one hole position and the other adjusted by two hole positions. In one embodiment, the upper and lower frame portions are adjusted by the same amount to maintain the intermediate frame portions 105 and 106 and the arcuate lower frame portions 103 and 104 parallel with each other. FIG. 17C is a demonstration showing the upper frame portion 1521 being adjusted to be in a broader width. In the embodiment where the rearward frame portion is also adjustable (as opposed to only the upper frame portion 1521 being adjustable), the adjustment to accommodate different exercise ball sizes may be accomplished without relying on the flexibility of the frame material itself, e.g. by tensioning the material to make it flex wider or narrower when adjusting only the upper frame portion. Hence, the frame structure may be in a relatively unstressed condition irrespective of the adjustment.

FIGS. 18-26 show an alternative embodiment in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure. This embodiment is similar to the embodiment described in FIGS. 1-14, except for the differences as noted below.

FIG. 18 shows a portion of a pair of intermediate frame portions 1805 and 1806 and a pair of forward frame portions 1807 and 1808 being covered by rubber sleeves. A pair of vertical frame portions 1810 and 1811 carries a seat back 1829. The pair of vertical frame portions 1810 and 1811 is configured in a different curvature from the pair of vertical frame portions 110 and 111 in the embodiment described in FIGS. 1-14, with a distance between two second ends 1819 and 1820 narrower than a distance between two second ends 119 and 110 described in FIGS. 1-14. The upper frame portion 1821 comprises a pair of inwardly extending members 1822 and 1823 that are integrally formed with vertical frame portions 1810 and 1811, respectively, and extend toward one another. In one embodiment, the upper frame portion 1821 further comprises a connecting member 1824 inside a head rest 1825 and cannot be seen in its entirety in the FIGS. 18-26. The upper frame portion 1821 may be adjusted and fixed at different width as mentioned in the embodiment described in FIGS. 15-17 and 17A. In another embodiment, a rearward frame portion 1809 comprises a rearward connecting member 1809B, and a pair of inwardly extending rearward frame portions 1827 and 1828. The rearward connecting member 1809B may be inserted into and connect the pair of inwardly extending rearward frame portions 1827 and 1828, and the rearward frame portion 1809 may be fixed at adjustable width as mentioned in the embodiment described in FIG. 17B. The width of the rearward frame portions 1809 is adjustable in accordance with the adjustment of the width of the upper frame portion 1821.

FIG. 19 is a rearward view of the embodiment of FIG. 18 and shows that the seat back 1829 has two sides 1831 and 1832, which are made of hook and loop material. The two sides of seat back 1831 and 1832 wrap around each of the pair of vertical frame portions 1810 and 1811 respectively so that the seat back ties with the pair of vertical frame portions 1810 and 1811. A width of the seat back 1829 is adjustable in accordance to a distance between the pair of vertical frame portions 1810 and 1811, which may be adjusted as described in previous embodiments.

FIGS. 24-25 show alternative embodiments in accordance with the present disclosure. These embodiments are similar to the embodiments described in FIGS. 1-14, except for the differences as noted below.

In FIG. 24, a pair of intermediate frame portions 2405 and 2406 is shown supporting by a hammock style seat member 2430. The seat member 2430 has a first end 2431 and an opposite, second end 2432.

FIG. 24A shows a top view of the seat member 2430 comprising mesh material 2438 in the middle (surrounded by either elastomeric or cloth seat portions 2440. The seat member 2430 is in an oval shape with two ends 2431 and 2432 extending to wrap around the two intermediate frame portions 2405 and 2406.

FIG. 24B shows that each of the two ends 2431 and 2432 comprises a hook and loop material fastener (e.g. Velcro) 2433 comprising hooks 2453 and loops 2454, and a plurality of (e.g. two) adjustment rings 2434 and 2435. A distance between the pair of intermediate frame portions 2405 and 2406 is adjustable. The hooks 2453 may go through different adjustment rings 2334 or 2335, and hook up with the loops 2454, to adjust a distance between the first end 2431 and the second end 2432, in accordance with the adjustment of distance between the pair of intermediate frame portions 2405 and 2406.

In FIG. 25, a pair of intermediate frame portions 2405 and 2406 supports an alternative seat member 2550, which is wider than the hammock style seat member 2430 as described in the previous embodiment, and having a first side 2531 and an opposite, second side 2532.

FIG. 25A is a bottom view of the seat member 2550, having a generally rectangle shape with two sides 2531 and 2532 respectively wrapped around the two intermediate frame portions 2405 and 2406. FIG. 25A shows that the first side 2531 has a top hook (or loop) material fastener (e.g. Velcro) 2523 and three connecting loop (or hook) material fasteners (e.g. Velcro) 2525, 2527 and 2529, and the second side 2532 has a top hook (or loop) material fastener (e.g. Velcro) 2524 and three connecting loop (or hook) fasteners (e.g. Velcro) 2526, 2528 and 2530. As being described in previous embodiments, a distance between the pair of intermediate frame portions 2405 and 2406 is adjustable. The top hook (or loop) material fastener 2523 and 2524 may hook up with different connecting loop (or hook) material fasteners among 2525, 2527, 2529 and 2526, 2528, 2530 respectively, to adjust a distance between the first side 2531 and the second side 2532, in accordance with the adjustment of distance between the pair of intermediate frame portions 2405 and 2406.

FIGS. 26-30D show an alternative embodiment in accordance with the present disclosure. This embodiment is similar to the embodiment described in FIGS. 1-14, except for the differences as noted below.

FIG. 26 shows a side view of an exercise device 2601 comprising an exercise ball 2612, a frame structure 2602 with a pair of intermediate frame portions 2605 and 2606 carrying a seat member 2630, two front stop members 2661 and 2662, two rear stop members 2663 and 2664, and two upper stop members 2665 and 2666. One front stop member 2662 and two upper stop members 2665 and 2666 cannot be seen here, but will be shown and described below. The pair of arcuate lower frame portions 2603 and 2604 has curved rocking surfaces that are configured to engage a horizontal surface S″. When the frame structure 2602 is positioned in a first orientation, the pair of arcuate lower frame portions 2603 and 2604 engages the horizontal surface S″ on its curved rocking surface such that the frame structure 2602 rocks in a single rocking direction forwardly and backwardly, as shown in FIG. 26.

In one embodiment, the stop members of the present patent application are used to keep the frame structure from sliding during use. FIG. 27A shows the two front stop members 2661 and 2662 secured to the pair of arcuate lower frame portions 2603 and 2604 to restrict the forward movement of the frame structure 2602, when the frame structure 2602 is positioned in the first orientation. The two front stop members 2661 and 2662 are positioned adjacent to the two first ends of the pair of arcuate lower frame portions 2613 and 2614. FIG. 27B shows the two front stop members 2661 and 2662 being positioned to restrict the range of a forward movement of the frame structure 2602 to a forward direction as shown in this figure, when the frame structure 2602 is positioned in a first orientation.

FIG. 28 shows the two rear stop members 2663 and 2664 secured to a rearward lower frame portion 2609 to restrict the backward movement of the frame structure 2602 when the frame structure 2602 is positioned in a first orientation. The two rear stop members 2663 and 2664 are positioned adjacent to portions of the rearward lower frame portion 2609 that connect the rearward lower frame portion 2609 to the second ends of the arcuate lower frame portions 2615 and 2616.

FIG. 29A shows the two upper stop members 2665 and 2666 secured to a pair of upwardly extending frame portions 2622 and 2623. The two upper stop members 2665 and 2666 are positioned in a central portion of each of the pair of upwardly extending frame portions 2622 and 2623, when the frame structure 2602 is positioned in the first orientation.

FIG. 29B shows the two upper stop members 2665 and 2666 that is positioned in a central portion of each of the pair of upwardly extending frame portions 2622 and 2623 are constructed and arranged to engage the horizontal surface S″, when the frame structure 2602 is positioned in the second orientation, so as to restrict the movement of the frame structure 2602.

FIG. 30A shows a partial enlarged view of the upper stop member 2665 that is not secured to the upwardly extending frame portion 2623, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. In one embodiment, the upper stop member 2665 is made of rubber, as shown in FIG. 30A. In another embodiment, the upper stop member 2665 may be made of other resilient material. In one embodiment, the upper stop member 2665 has multiple strip-shapes convex on its external surface. In another embodiment, the external surface of the upper stop member 2665 may have other designs for the purpose of increasing the friction and restrict movement, when the stop member 2665 is constructed and arranged to engage a horizontal surface. In one embodiment, the stop member 2665 includes a lock member 2668. In one embodiment, the lock member may be a protruding member 2669, as shown in FIG. 30A. In another embodiment, the lock member may include a member having other shapes/configurations that is configured to engage with the lock engaging portion of the frame member 3071, which will be described below.

FIG. 30B shows a partial enlarged view of the upwardly extending frame portions 2623, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. In one embodiment, the upwardly extending frame portions 2623 include a lock engaging portion 3071. In one embodiment, the lock engaging portion 3071 may be a protruding member receiving opening 3070, as shown in FIG. 30B. FIG. 30C shows the lock member 2668 engages with the lock engaging portion 3071 by protruding the protruding member 2669 into the protruding member receiving opening 3070, when the frame structure 2602 is positioned in the second orientation. In another embodiment, the lock engaging portion 3071 may include a portion having other shapes/configurations that is configured to engage with the lock member of the stop member.

In one embodiment, the structure, the configuration and the operation of the upper stop member 2665 are described in detail with respect to FIGS, 30A and 30B in the above paragraph. However, it is contemplated that the structure, the configuration and the operation of the other upper stop member 2666, the two front stop members 2661 and 2662, and the two rear stop member 2663 and 2664 of the present patent application are similar to the structure, the configuration and the operation of the upper stop member 2665 (described in detail with respect to FIGS. 30A and 30B), and, therefore, the structure, the configuration and the operation of the other upper stop member 2666, the two front stop members 2661 and 2662, and the two rear stop member 2663 and 2664 will not be described in detail here.

In one embodiment, the dimensions of various parts of the exemplary exercise device, as shown and described here, are up to 5 percent greater than or up to 5 percent less than those illustrated and described. In another embodiment, the dimensions of various parts of the exemplary exercise device, as shown and described here, are up to 10 percent greater than or up to 10 percent less than those illustrated and described. In yet another embodiment, the dimensions of various parts of the exemplary exercise device, as shown and described here, are up to 20 percent greater than or up to 20 percent less than those illustrated and described.

It should also be noted that orientational references, such as “upper”, “lower”, “right”, “left”, and the like are used for convenience purposes to refer to the orientation with respect to the Figures. These terms are not intended to be limiting, and in practice the various structures may have other orientations. Any patents or applications referred to in this present patent application, including any in the Background section, are incorporated by reference in their entirety into the present patent application.

Although the patent application has been described in detail for the purpose of illustration, it is to be understood that such detail is solely for that purpose and that the patent application is not limited to the disclosed embodiments, but, on the contrary, is intended to cover modifications and equivalent arrangements that are within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. In addition, it is to be understood that the present disclosure contemplates that, to the extent possible, one or more features of any embodiment can be combined with one or more features of any other embodiment.

Claims

1. An exercise device comprising:

a frame structure, the frame structure being movable between a first orientation and a second orientation, the frame structure comprising: a pair of arcuate lower frame portions, each having a first end and an opposing, second end, the arcuate lower frame portions configured to engage a horizontal surface in spaced relationship from one another; a pair of intermediate frame portions each having a first end and an opposing, second end, positioned in spaced relationship from one another and disposed higher than the arcuate lower frame portions when engaging the horizontal surface in the first orientation; a pair of forward frame portions constructed and arranged to connect the pair of arcuate lower frame portions and the intermediate frame portions at their respective first ends, the pair of forward frame portions extending substantially transversely to the pair of arcuate lower frame portions and the pair of intermediate frame portions; a rearward lower frame portion disposed at the second ends of the arcuate lower frame portions; and a pair of vertical frame portions, the pair of vertical frame portions extending upwardly from the second ends of the pair of intermediate frame portions, when the frame structure is in the first orientation;

wherein, when the frame structure is in the first orientation, the pair of arcuate lower frame portions is configured for placement on the horizontal surface and the pair of intermediate frame portions is configured for receiving and retaining an exercise ball therebetween; and

wherein, when the frame structure is in the second orientation, the rearward lower frame portion and the pair of vertical frame portions are configured for placement on the horizontal surface, and the pair of forward frame portions is positioned towards the top of the frame structure so as to be adapted for engagement with user's hands for performing exercises.

2. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the vertical frame portions are also configured for receiving and retaining the exercise ball therebetween, when the frame structure is in the first orientation.

3. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the frame structure is formed from a tubular material.

4. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the frame structure is constructed of steel.

5. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the pair of arcuate lower frame portions is disposed in substantially parallel, spaced relationship.

6. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein a distance between the pair of arcuate lower frame portions is adjustable.

7. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the rearward lower frame portion comprises a connecting frame portion that connects the second ends of the arcuate lower frame portions to one another.

8. The exercise device of claim 1, further comprising a seat member connected between the pair of intermediate frame portions.

9. The exercise device of claim 1, further comprising a pair of resilient sleeves covering at least a portion of each of the intermediate frame portions.

10. The exercise device of claim 1, further comprising a pair of resilient sleeves covering at least a portion of each of the forward frame portions.

11. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein a distance between the pair of vertical frame portions is adjustable.

12. The exercise device of claim 1, further comprising a seat back connected between the pair of vertical frame portions.

13. The exercise device of claim 12, wherein a width of seat back is adjustable in accordance with an adjustment of the distance between the vertical frame portions.

14. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the frame structure further comprises an upper frame portion connected between the vertical frame portions.

15. The exercise device of claim 14, wherein a width of the upper frame portion is adjustable.

16. The exercise device of claim 14, wherein the upper frame portion comprises a pair of upwardly extending members and a connecting member that connects the upwardly extending members.

17. The exercise device of claim 16, wherein the connecting member connects to the pair of upwardly extending frame portion by fasteners.

18. The exercise device of claim 16, wherein the upper frame portion comprises two or more slidable regions that are adjustable to adjust a width of the upper frame portion.

19. An exercise device comprising:

a frame structure, the frame structure comprising: a pair of arcuate lower frame portions, each having a first end and an opposing, second end, the arcuate lower frame portions configured to engage a horizontal surface in spaced relationship from one another; a pair of intermediate frame portions each having a first end and an opposing, second end, positioned in spaced relationship from one another and disposed higher than the arcuate lower frame portions; a pair of forward frame portions constructed and arranged to connect the pair of arcuate lower frame portions and the intermediate frame portions at their respective first ends, the pair of forward frame portions extending substantially transversely to the pair of arcuate lower frame portions and the pair of intermediate frame portions; a rearward lower frame portion disposed at the second ends of the arcuate lower frame portions; and a pair of vertical frame portions, the pair of vertical frame portions extending upwardly from the second ends of the pair of intermediate frame portions,

wherein, when the pair of arcuate lower frame portions is configured for placement on the horizontal surface, the pair of intermediate frame portions is configured for receiving and retaining an exercise ball therebetween; and

an exercise ball, the exercise ball being positioned at least in part between the pair of intermediate frame portions.

20. The exercise device of claim 19, wherein the vertical frame portions are also configured for receiving and retaining the exercise ball therebetween, when the frame structure is in the first orientation.

21. The exercise device of claim 19, wherein the frame structure is formed from a tubular structure.

22. The exercise device of claim 19, wherein the frame structure is constructed of steel.

23. The exercise device of claim 19, wherein the pair of arcuate lower frame portions is disposed in substantially parallel, spaced relationship.

24. The exercise device of claim 19, wherein a distance between the pair of arcuate lower frame portions is adjustable.

25. The exercise device of claim 19, wherein the rearward lower frame portion comprises a connecting frame portion that connects the second ends of the arcuate lower frame portions to one another.

26. The exercise device of claim 19, further comprising a seat member connected between the pair of intermediate frame portions.

27. The exercise device of claim 19, further comprising a pair of resilient sleeves covering at least a portion of each of the intermediate frame portions.

28. The exercise device of claim 19, further comprising a pair of resilient sleeves covering at least a portion of each of the forward frame portions.

29. The exercise device of claim 19, wherein a distance between the pair of vertical frame portions is adjustable.

30. The exercise device of claim 19, further comprising a seat back connected between the pair of vertical frame portions.

31. The exercise device of claim 30, wherein a width of the seat back is adjustable in accordance with an adjustment of the distance between the vertical frame portions.

32. The exercise device of claim 19, wherein the frame structure further comprises an upper frame portion connected between the vertical frame portions.

33. The exercise device of claim 32, wherein a width of the upper frame portion is adjustable.

34. The exercise device of claim 32 wherein the upper frame portion comprises a pair of upwardly extending members and a connecting member that connects the upwardly extending members.

35. The exercise device of claim 34, wherein the connecting member connects to the pair of upwardly extending frame portion by fasteners.

36. The exercise device of claim 34, wherein the upper frame portion comprises two or more slidable regions that are adjustable to adjust a width of the upper frame portion.

37. The exercise device of claim 19, wherein the exercise ball is a resilient ball adapted to support a user's body.

38. The exercise device of claim 19, wherein with the user supported by the exercise ball, a bottom of exercise ball surface and the pair of arcuate lower frame portions engage the horizontal surface.

39. An exercise device comprising:

a frame structure, the frame structure being movable between a first orientation and a second orientation, the frame structure comprising: a pair of arcuate lower frame portions, each having a first end and an opposing, second end, the arcuate lower frame portions having a curved rocking surface configured to engage a horizontal surface in spaced relationship from one another; a pair of intermediate frame portions each having a first end and an opposing, second end, positioned in spaced relationship from one another and disposed higher than the arcuate lower frame portions when engaging the horizontal surface in the first orientation; a pair of forward frame portions constructed and arranged to connect the pair of arcuate lower frame portions and the intermediate frame portions at their respective first ends, the pair of forward frame portions extending substantially transversely to the pair of arcuate lower frame portions and the pair of intermediate frame portions; a rearward lower frame portion disposed at the second ends of the arcuate lower frame portions; and a pair of vertical frame portions, the pair of vertical frame portions extending upwardly from the second ends of the pair of intermediate frame portions, when the frame structure is in the first orientation;

wherein, when the frame structure is in the first orientation, the pair of arcuate lower frame portions are configured to engage the horizontal surface on its curved rocking surface such that the frame structure will rock in a single rocking direction, and the pair of intermediate frame portions are configured for receiving and retaining an exercise ball therebetween; and

wherein, when the frame structure is in the second orientation, the rearward lower frame portion and the pair of vertical frame portions are configured for placement on the horizontal surface, and the pair of forward frame portions is positioned towards the top of the frame structure so as to be adapted for engagement with user's hands for performing exercises.

40. The exercise device of claim 39, further comprising one or more rear stop members secured to the rearward lower frame portion to restrict the backward movement of the frame structure when the frame structure is positioned in a first orientation.

41. The exercise device of claim 40, wherein the one or more rear stop members are positioned adjacent to portions of the rearward lower frame portion that connect the rearward lower frame portion to the second ends of the arcuate lower frame portions.

42. The exercise device of claim 40, wherein the one or more rear stop members are positioned in a central portion of the rearward lower frame portion.

43. The exercise device of claim 39, further comprising one or more front stop members secured to the pair of arcuate lower frame portions to restrict the forward movement of the frame structure when the frame structure is positioned in a first orientation.

44. The exercise device of claim 43, wherein the one or more front stop members are positioned adjacent to the two first ends of the pair of arcuate lower frame portions.

45. The exercise device of claim 39, further comprising one or more upper stop members secured to the pair of vertical frame portions, the one or more upper stop members are constructed and arranged to engage the horizontal surface when the frame structure is positioned in a second orientation so as to restrict the movement of the frame structure when the frame structure is positioned in the second orientation.

46. The exercise device of claim 45, wherein the frame structure further comprises an upper frame portion connected between the vertical frame portions, and wherein one or more upper stop members are positioned adjacent to portions of the vertical frame portions that connect the vertical frame portions to the upper frame portion.

47. The exercise device of claim 45, wherein the one or more upper stop members are positioned in central portions of the vertical frame portions.

48. The exercise device of claim 39, further comprising stop members constructed and arranged to restrict the movement of the frame structure when the frame structure is positioned in a first orientation or in a second orientation.

49. The exercise device of claim 48, wherein the stop members include lock members that are constructed and arranged to engage with lock engaging portions of the frame structure.

50. The exercise device of claim 48, wherein the lock members of the stop members include protruding members.

51. The exercise device of claim 48, wherein the lock engaging portions of the frame structure include protruding member receiving openings.

52. The exercise device of claim 48, wherein the stop members are made of a resilient material.

53. An exercise device comprising:

a frame structure, the frame structure being movable between a first orientation and a second orientation, the frame structure comprising: a pair of arcuate lower frame portions, each having a first end and an opposing, second end, the arcuate lower frame portions having a curved rocking surface configured to engage a horizontal surface in spaced relationship from one another; a pair of intermediate frame portions each having a first end and an opposing, second end, positioned in spaced relationship from one another and disposed higher than the arcuate lower frame portions when engaging the horizontal surface in the first orientation; a pair of forward frame portions constructed and arranged to connect the pair of arcuate lower frame portions and the intermediate frame portions at their respective first ends, the pair of forward frame portions extending substantially transversely to the pair of arcuate lower frame portions and the pair of intermediate frame portions; a rearward lower frame portion disposed at the second ends of the arcuate lower frame portions; and a pair of vertical frame portions, the pair of vertical frame portions extending upwardly from the second ends of the pair of intermediate frame portions, when the frame structure is in the first orientation;

wherein, the pair of arcuate lower frame portions is configured to engage the horizontal surface on its curved rocking surface such that the frame structure will rock in a single rocking direction; and

an exercise ball, the exercise ball being positioned at least in part between the pair of intermediate frame portions.

54. The exercise device of claim 53, further comprising one or more rear stop members secured to the rearward lower frame portion to restrict the backward movement of the frame structure when the frame structure is positioned in a first orientation.

55. The exercise device of claim 54, wherein the one or more rear stop members are positioned adjacent to portions of the rearward lower frame portion that connect the rearward lower frame portion to the second ends of the arcuate lower frame portions.

56. The exercise device of claim 54, wherein the one or more rear stop members are positioned in a central portion of the rearward lower frame portion.

57. The exercise device of claim 53, further comprising one or more front stop members secured to the pair of arcuate lower frame portions to restrict the forward movement of the frame structure when the frame structure is positioned in a first orientation.

58. The exercise device of claim 57, wherein the one or more front stop members are positioned adjacent to the two first ends of the pair of arcuate lower frame portions.

59. The exercise device of claim 53, further comprising one or more upper stop members secured to the pair of vertical frame portions, the one or more upper stop members are constructed and arranged to engage the horizontal surface when the frame structure is positioned in a second orientation so as to restrict the movement of the frame structure when the frame structure is positioned in the second orientation.

60. The exercise device of claim 59, wherein the frame structure further comprises an upper frame portion connected between the vertical frame portions, and wherein one or more upper stop members are positioned adjacent to portions of the vertical frame portions that connect the vertical frame portions to the upper frame portion.

61. The exercise device of claim 59, wherein the one or more upper stop members are positioned in central portions of the vertical frame portions.

62. The exercise device of claim 53, further comprising stop members constructed and arranged to restrict the movement of the frame structure when the frame structure is positioned in a first orientation or in a second orientation.

63. The exercise device of claim 62, wherein the stop members include lock members that are constructed and arranged to engage with lock engaging portions of the frame structure.

64. The exercise device of claim 62, wherein the lock members of the stop members include protruding members.

65. The exercise device of claim 62, wherein the lock engaging portions of the frame structure include protruding member receiving openings.

66. The exercise device of claim 62, wherein the stop members are made of a resilient material.