Concentric-arrangement frame structure for recreational structure

Abstract

A coupling device for a recreational structure comprises a first arm member and a second arm member. The first arm member comprises first and second ends that are arranged substantially in a plane. The first end comprises an external surface that is capable of receiving an internal surface of a first horizontal frame member of the recreational structure and the second end comprising either an external surface that is capable of receiving one of an internal surface of a second horizontal frame member of the recreational structure or an internal surface that is capable of receiving an external surface of the second horizontal frame member of the recreational structure. The second arm member is arranged along a longitudinal axis and is capable of receiving a vertical frame member of the recreational structure.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCED TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS

The present patent application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Applications Ser. No. 60/951,171, filed, Jul. 20, 2007, entitled “Concentric Arrangement Frame Structure For Recreational Structure,” and invented by Jeffry L. VanElverdinghe; U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/969,586, filed Aug. 31, 2007, entitled Panel-Type Frame Structure For A Recreational Structure, and invented by Jeffry L. VanElverdinghe; and U.S. Utility patent application Ser. No. 11/970,412, filed Jan. 7, 2008, entitled “Panel-Type Frame Structure For A Recreational Structure, and invented by Jeffry L. VanElverdinghe, the disclosure of each being incorporated by referenced herein.

BACKGROUND

The subject matter disclosed herein relates to recreational structures. More particularly, the subject matter disclosed herein relates to a frame structure arrangement for a recreational structure, such as, but not limited to, trampolines.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The subject matter disclosed herein is illustrated by way of example and not by limitation in the accompanying figures in which like reference numerals indicate similar elements and in which:

FIGS. 1A-1C respectively depict cross-sectional front, side and top views of a first exemplary embodiment of a T-coupler device for a recreational structure according to the subject matter disclosed herein;

FIG. 1D depicts a perspective view of the first exemplary embodiment of T-coupler device according to the subject matter disclosed herein;

FIGS. 1E-1J respectively depict exemplary cross-sectional side view of several exemplary cross-sectional shapes for a T-coupler device according to the subject matter disclosed herein;

FIGS. 2A-2C respectively depict cross-sectional front, side and top views of a second exemplary embodiment of a T-coupler device for a recreational structure according to the subject matter disclosed herein.

FIG. 2D depicts a perspective view of the second exemplary embodiment of T-coupler device according to the subject matter disclosed herein;

FIGS. 3A-3C respectively depict cross-sectional front, side and top views of a third exemplary embodiment of a T-coupler device for a recreational structure according to the subject matter disclosed herein;

FIGS. 4A-4C depict cross-sectional front, side and top views of a fourth exemplary embodiment of a T-coupler device for a recreational structure according to the subject matter disclosed herein;

FIGS. 5A-5C depict cross-sectional front, side and top views of a fifth exemplary embodiment of a T-coupler device for a recreational structure according to the subject matter disclosed herein;

FIGS. 6A-6C depict cross-sectional front, side and top views of a sixth exemplary embodiment of a T-coupler device for a recreational structure according to the subject matter disclosed herein;

FIGS. 7A-7C depict cross-sectional front, side and top views of a seventh exemplary embodiment of a T-coupler device for a recreational structure according to the subject matter disclosed herein;

FIGS. 8A-8C depict cross-sectional front, side and top views of an eighth exemplary embodiment of a T-coupler device for a recreational structure according to the subject matter disclosed herein;

FIGS. 9A-9C depict cross-sectional front, side and top views of a ninth exemplary embodiment of a T-coupler device for a recreational structure according to the subject matter disclosed herein;

FIGS. 10A-10C depict a front view, a side cross-sectional view and a top view of a tenth exemplary embodiment of a T-coupler device for a recreational structure according to the subject matter disclosed herein;

FIGS. 11A-11C depict a front view, a side cross-sectional view and a top view of an eleventh exemplary embodiment of a T-coupler device for a recreational structure according to the subject matter disclosed herein;

FIGS. 12A-12C depict a front view, a side cross-sectional view and a top view of a twelfth exemplary embodiment of a T-coupler device for a recreational structure according to the subject matter disclosed herein;

FIGS. 13A and 13B depict front and side views of a thirteenth exemplary embodiment of a T-coupler device for a recreational structure according to the subject matter disclosed herein;

FIGS. 14A and 14B depict front and side views of a fourteenth exemplary embodiment of a T-coupler device for a recreational structure according to the subject matter disclosed herein;

FIG. 15 depicts an exemplary embodiment of a safety enclosure according to the subject matter disclosed herein;

FIGS. 16A-16C depict exemplary embodiments of ferrules that can be used with a flexible rod that forms the safety enclosure of FIG. 15;

FIG. 17 depicts an isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of a multiple bed trampoline system according to the subject matter disclosed herein;

FIG. 18 depicts a top view of the exemplary embodiment of a multiple bed trampoline system shown in FIG. 17;

FIG. 19 depicts an isometric view of another exemplary embodiment of a T-coupler device 1900 according to the subject matter disclosed herein;

FIG. 20 depicts a recreational structure, such as a trampoline, that can utilize a coupling device according to the subject matter disclosed herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any embodiment described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments. Additionally, exemplary embodiments are illustrated in referenced figures of the drawings. It is intended that the embodiments and figures disclosed are to be considered illustrative rather than restrictive.

FIGS. 1-14 and 19 depict exemplary embodiments of a concentric-arrangement frame structure for a recreational structure, such as, but not limited to a trampoline. The concentric nature of the frame structure subject matter disclosed herein relates to the ability of the frame members of the frame structure to fit together by either fitting around or within other adjacent frame members.

FIGS. 1A-1C respectively depict cross-sectional front, side and top views of a first exemplary embodiment of a T-coupler device 100 for a recreational structure according to the subject matter disclosed herein. FIG. 1D depicts a perspective view of the first exemplary embodiment of T-coupler device 100. T-coupler device 100 comprises a joint portion 101, an arm portion 102 and a leg portion 103. Arm portion 102 comprises a first end 104 and a second end 105. In one exemplary embodiment, joint portion 101 surrounds arm portion 102 and is fixedly attached to arm portion 102 in a well-known manner, such as by, but not limited to, welding. In another exemplary embodiment, joint portion 101 surrounds arm portion 102, but arm portion 102 is free to move inside of joint portion 101.

First end 104 and second end 105 are arranged to be substantially in a plane that is typically parallel to the rebounding surface (not shown) of a recreational structure, such as a trampoline. First end 104 comprises an external surface 106 that is capable of receiving an internal surface 107 of a first horizontal frame member 108 of the recreational structure. That is, first horizontal frame member 108 fits around first end 104. (See FIG. 1D in which only a portion of first horizontal frame member 108 is shown.) Second end 105 comprises an external surface 109 that is capable of receiving an internal surface 110 of a second horizontal frame member 111 of a recreational structure. That is, second horizontal frame member 111 fits around second end 106. (See FIG. 1D in which only a portion of second horizontal frame member 111 is shown.) Edges 112 and 113 of joint portion 101 respectively act as stops for ends 114 and 115 of horizontal frame members 108, 111.

Leg portion 103 of T-coupler device 100 extends in a direction along a second longitudinal axis (not shown in FIGS. 1A-1D) that intersects the plane in which first end 104 and second end 105 are substantially in. Leg portion 103 is attached to joint portion 101 in a well-known manner, such as by, but not limited to, welding. Leg portion 103 comprises an end 116 that is capable of receiving a vertical frame member (not shown in FIG. 1A-1C) of a recreational structure.

FIGS. 1E-1J respectively depict exemplary cross-sectional side view of several exemplary cross-sectional shapes for a T-coupler device according to the subject matter disclosed herein. In particular, FIG. 1E depicts a T-coupler device comprising a generally circular cross-sectional shape. FIG. 1F depicts a T-coupler device comprising a generally square cross-sectional shape in which the width of the T portion is about the same width as the leg portion. FIG. 1G depicts a T-coupler device comprising a generally rectangular cross-sectional shape in which the width of the T portion is larger than the width of the leg portion. FIG. 1H depicts a T-coupler device comprising a generally oval cross-sectional shape. FIG. 1I depicts a T-coupler device comprising a generally obround cross-sectional shape. FIG. 1J depicts a T-coupler device comprising a generally rectangular cross-sectional shape in which the width of the T portion is larger than the width of the leg portion and in which the edges are rounded. It should be understood that a T-coupler device according to the subject matter disclosed herein is not limited to the exemplary cross-sectional shapes depicted in FIGS. 1E-1J. Additionally, it should be understood that the leg portion of a T-coupler device can have any of and is not limited to any of the exemplary cross-sectional shapes depicted in FIGS. 1E-1J.

FIGS. 2A-2C respectively depict cross-sectional front, side and top views of a second exemplary embodiment of a T-coupler device 200 for a recreational structure according to the subject matter disclosed herein. FIG. 2D depicts a perspective view of the second exemplary embodiment of T-coupler device 200. T-coupler device 200 comprises a joint portion 201 and a leg portion 203. Joint portion 201 is formed by a first arm portion 202a that fits inside and is fixed to a second arm portion 202b. Arm portion 202a comprises a first end 204. Arm portion 202b comprises a second end 205. First end 204 and second end 205 are arranged to be substantially in a plane that is typically parallel to the rebounding surface (not shown) of a recreational structure, such as a trampoline. First end 204 comprises an external surface 206 that is capable of receiving an internal surface 207 of a first horizontal frame member 208 of the recreational structure. That is, first horizontal frame member 208 fits around first end 204. (See FIG. 2D in which only a portion of first horizontal frame member 208 is shown.) Second end 205 comprises an internal surface 209 that is capable of receiving an external surface 210 of a second horizontal frame member 211 of a recreational structure. That is, second horizontal frame member 211 fits inside second end 205. (See FIG. 1D in which only a portion of second horizontal frame member 211 is shown.) Edge 212 of joint portion 201 acts as a stop for end 214 of horizontal frame member 208. Internal edge 213 of joint portion 201 acts as a stop for end 215 of horizontal frame member 211.

Leg portion 203 of T-coupler device 200 extends in a direction along a second longitudinal axis (not shown in FIGS. 2A-2D) that intersects the plane in which first end 204 and second end 205 are substantially in. Leg portion 203 is attached to joint portion 201 in a well-known manner, such as by, but not limited to, welding. Leg portion 203 comprises an end 216 that is capable of receiving a vertical frame member (not shown in FIG. 1A-1C) of a recreational structure.

It should be understood that the T-coupler 200 can comprise and is not limited to any of the cross-sectional shapes shown in FIGS. 1E-1J. Additionally, it should be understood that the leg portion of a T-coupler device 200 can have any of and is not limited to any of the exemplary cross-sectional shapes depicted in FIGS. 1E-1J.

FIGS. 3A-3C respectively depict cross-sectional front, side and top views of a third exemplary embodiment of a T-coupler device 300 for a recreational structure according to the subject matter disclosed herein. T-coupler device 300 comprises a joint portion 301, an arm portion 302 and a leg portion 303. Arm portion 302 comprises a first end 304 and a second end 305. In one exemplary embodiment, joint portion 301 surrounds arm portion 302 and is fixedly attached to arm portion 302 in a well-known manner, such as by, but not limited to, welding. In another exemplary embodiment, joint portion 301 surrounds arm portion 302, but arm portion 302 is free to move inside of joint portion 301.

First end 304 and second end 305 are arranged to be substantially in a plane that is typically parallel to the rebounding surface (not shown) of a recreational structure, such as a trampoline. First end 304 comprises an internal surface 306 that is capable of receiving an external surface 307 of a first connector member 308. That is, first end 304 fits around first connector member 308. External surface 307 of first connector member 308 is capable of receiving an internal surface of a first horizontal frame member (not shown) of a recreational structure. (See FIG. 1D for a depiction that would be similar to first connector member 308 in relationship to a first horizontal frame member of a recreational structure.) Second end 305 comprises an internal surface 309 that is capable of receiving an external surface 310 of a second connector member 311. That is, second end 305 fits around second connector member 311. External surface 310 of second connector member 311 is capable of receiving an internal surface of a second horizontal frame member (not shown) of a recreational structure. (See FIG. 1D for a depiction that would be similar to first connector member 308 in relationship to a second horizontal frame member of a recreational structure.)

In one exemplary embodiment, joint portion 301 surrounds arm portion 302 and is fixedly attached to arm portion 302 in a well-known manner, such as by, but not limited to, welding. In another exemplary embodiment, joint portion 301 surrounds arm portion 302, but arm portion 302 is free to move inside of joint portion 301. In yet another exemplary embodiment, at least one of first connector member 308 and second connector member 310 is free to move within arm portion 302. In still another exemplary embodiment, at least one of first connector member 308 and second connector member 310 is fixedly attached to arm portion 302 in a well-known manner, such as by, but not limited to, welding. In another exemplary embodiment, first connector member 308 and second connector member 310 can abut each other within arm portion 302.

Leg portion 303 of T-coupler device 300 extends in a direction along a second longitudinal axis (not shown in FIGS. 3A-3C) that intersects the plane in which first end 304 and second end 305 are substantially in. Leg portion 303 is attached to joint portion 301 in a well-known manner, such as by, but not limited to, welding. Leg portion 303 comprises an end 316 that is capable of receiving a vertical frame member (not shown in FIG. 3A-3C) of a recreational structure.

FIGS. 4A-4C depict cross-sectional front, side and top views of a fourth exemplary embodiment of a T-coupler device 400 for a recreational structure according to the subject matter disclosed herein. As depicted in FIGS. 4A-4C, T-coupler device 400 is similar to the exemplary embodiments of T-coupler devices described herein. It should be understood that T-coupler device 400 could incorporate any of the features described in connection with T-coupler devices described herein. FIGS. 4A-4C also depict a T-coupler device that comprises an aperture 420 that is capable of receiving a vertical pole (not shown in FIGS. 4A-4C) for a safety enclosure, and a stop member 421 that acts to prevent the vertical pole from being received too far into leg portion 403. As depicted, aperture 421 is formed by leg member 403 extending to and through a top edge of joint member 401 and arm member 402. In one exemplary embodiment, leg member 403 is fixedly attached to joint member 401 and arm member 402 in a well-known manner, such as by, but not limited to, welding. Stop member 421 is fixedly attached to the inside of leg portion 403 in a well-known manner, such as, but not limited to, by welding. Stop member 421 can also act as a stop that prevents a leg of a recreational structure from being inserted too far into leg member 403. It should be understood that while stop member 421 is depicted as a ring-type stop member, stop member 421 could be a solid piece that substantially fills the internal space of leg member 403.

FIGS. 5A-5C depict cross-sectional front, side and top views of a fifth exemplary embodiment of a T-coupler device 500 for a recreational structure according to the subject matter disclosed herein. As depicted in FIGS. 5A-5C, T-coupler device 500 is similar to the exemplary embodiments of T-coupler devices described herein. It should be understood that T-coupler device 500 could incorporate any of the features described in connection with T-coupler devices described herein. FIGS. 5A-5C also depict a T-coupler device that comprises an aperture 520 that is capable of receiving a vertical pole (not shown in FIGS. 5A-5C) for a safety enclosure, and a crimp-type stop member 521 that acts to prevent the vertical pole from being received too far into leg portion 503. As depicted, aperture 521 is formed by leg member 503 extending to and through a top edge of joint member 501 and arm member 502. In one exemplary embodiment, leg member 503 is fixedly attached to joint member 501 and arm member 502 in a well-known manner, such as by, but not limited to, welding. Crimp-type stop member 521 is formed in a well-known manner to project inwardly on the inside of leg portion 503. Crimp-type stop member 521 can also act as a stop that prevents a leg of a recreational structure from being inserted too far into leg member 503. It should be understood that while crimp-type stop member 521 is depicted as substantially encircling the inside of leg member 503, crimp-type stop member 521 could be formed to be only partially encircling the inside of leg member 503.

FIGS. 6A-6C depict cross-sectional front, side and top views of a sixth exemplary embodiment of a T-coupler device 600 for a recreational structure according to the subject matter disclosed herein. As depicted in FIGS. 6A-6C, T-coupler device 600 is similar to the exemplary embodiments of T-coupler devices described herein. It should be understood that T-coupler device 600 could incorporate any of the features described in connection with T-coupler devices described herein. FIGS. 6A-6C also depict a T-coupler device that comprises a side-sleeve member 630 comprising a generally circular cross-sectional shape that is capable of receiving a vertical pole (not shown in FIGS. 6A-6C) for a safety enclosure. Side-sleeve member 630 is fixedly attached to joint member 601 in a well-known manner, such as by, but not limited to, welding. In one exemplary embodiment, side-sleeve member 630 could be formed to comprise a blind aperture. In another exemplary embodiment, side-sleeve member 630 could be formed to comprise a slot opening in the side of side-sleeve member 630. It should be understood that side-sleeve member 630 could be formed to comprise any suitable cross-sectional shape.

FIGS. 7A-7C depict cross-sectional front, side and top views of a seventh exemplary embodiment of a T-coupler device 700 for a recreational structure according to the subject matter disclosed herein. As depicted in FIGS. 7A-7C, T-coupler device 700 is similar to the exemplary embodiments of T-coupler devices described herein. It should be understood that T-coupler device 700 could incorporate any of the features described in connection with T-coupler devices described herein. FIGS. 7A-7C also depict a T-coupler device that comprises a side-sleeve member 730 comprising a generally square cross-sectional shape that is capable of receiving a vertical pole (not shown in FIGS. 7A-7C) for a safety enclosure. Side-sleeve member 730 is fixedly attached to joint member 701 in a well-known manner, such as by, but not limited to, welding. In one exemplary embodiment, side-sleeve member 730 could be formed to comprise a blind aperture. In another exemplary embodiment, side-sleeve member 730 could be formed to comprise a slot opening in the side of side-sleeve member 730. It should be understood that side-sleeve member 730 could be formed to comprise any suitable cross-sectional shape.

FIGS. 8A-8C depict cross-sectional front, side and top views of an eighth exemplary embodiment of a T-coupler device 800 for a recreational structure according to the subject matter disclosed herein. As depicted in FIGS. 8A-8C, T-coupler device 800 is similar to the exemplary embodiments of T-coupler devices described herein. It should be understood that T-coupler device 800 could incorporate any of the features described in connection with T-coupler devices described herein. FIGS. 8A-8C also depict a T-coupler device that comprises a side-sleeve member 840 comprising a generally round cross-sectional shape that is capable of receiving a flexible pole (not shown in FIGS. 8A-8C) for a safety enclosure, such as the exemplary safety enclosure described in connection with FIGS. 15 and 16. Side-sleeve member 840 is fixedly attached to joint member 801 in a well-known manner, such as by, but not limited to, welding. In one exemplary embodiment, side-sleeve member 840 could be formed to comprise a blind aperture. In another exemplary embodiment, side-sleeve member 840 could be formed to comprise a slot opening in the side of side-sleeve member 840. It should be understood that side-sleeve member 840 could be formed to comprise any suitable cross-sectional shape.

FIGS. 9A-9C depict cross-sectional front, side and top views of a ninth exemplary embodiment of a T-coupler device 900 for a recreational structure according to the subject matter disclosed herein. As depicted in FIGS. 9A-9C, T-coupler device 900 is similar to the exemplary embodiments of T-coupler devices described herein. It should be understood that T-coupler device 900 could incorporate any of the features described in connection with T-coupler devices described herein. FIGS. 9A-9C also depict a T-coupler device that comprises side-sleeve members 940a and 940b each comprising a generally round cross-sectional shapes that are each capable of receiving a flexible pole (not shown in FIGS. 9A-9C) for a safety enclosure, such as the exemplary safety enclosure described in connection with FIGS. 15 and 16. Side-sleeve members 940a and 940b are fixedly attached to joint member 901 in a well-known manner, such as by, but not limited to, welding. In one exemplary embodiment, at least one of side-sleeve members 940a and 940b could be formed to comprise a blind aperture. In another exemplary embodiment, at least one of side-sleeve member 940 could be formed to comprise a slot opening in the side of the side-sleeve member. It should be understood that either of side-sleeve members 940a and 940b could be formed to comprise any suitable cross-sectional shape.

FIGS. 10A-10C depict a front view, a side cross-sectional view and a top view of a tenth exemplary embodiment of a T-coupler device 1000 for a recreational structure according to the subject matter disclosed herein. As depicted in FIGS. 10A-10C, T-coupler device 1000 is similar to the exemplary embodiments of T-coupler devices described herein. It should be understood that T-coupler device 1000 could incorporate any of the features described in connection with T-coupler devices described herein. FIGS. 10A-10C also depict a T-coupler device that comprises an aperture 1050 formed in joint member 1001 comprising a generally round cross-sectional shape that is capable of receiving a flexible pole (not shown in FIGS. 10A-10C) for a safety enclosure, such as the exemplary safety enclosure described in connection with FIGS. 15 and 16. It should be understood that aperture 1050 could be formed to comprise any suitable cross-sectional shape.

FIGS. 11A-11C depict a front view, a side cross-sectional view and a top view of an eleventh exemplary embodiment of a T-coupler device 1100 for a recreational structure according to the subject matter disclosed herein. As depicted in FIGS. 11A-11C, T-coupler device 1100 is similar to the exemplary embodiments of T-coupler devices described herein. It should be understood that T-coupler device 1100 could incorporate any of the features described in connection with T-coupler devices described herein. FIGS. 11A-11C also depict a T-coupler device that comprises side-sleeve members 1160a and 1160b that are oriented at an angle. Each side-sleeve member 1160a and 1160b comprises a generally round cross-sectional shape that is capable of receiving a flexible pole (not shown in FIGS. 11A-11C) for a safety enclosure, such as the exemplary safety enclosure described in connection with FIGS. 15 and 16. Side-sleeve members 1160a and 1160b are fixedly attached to leg member 1103 in a well-known manner, such as by, but not limited to, welding. In one exemplary embodiment, at least one of side-sleeve members 1160a and 1160b could be formed to comprise a blind aperture. In another exemplary embodiment, at least one of side-sleeve member 1160 could be formed to comprise a slot opening in the side of the side-sleeve member. It should be understood that either of side-sleeve members 1160a and 1160b could be formed to comprise any suitable cross-sectional shape.

FIGS. 12A-12C depict a front view, a side cross-sectional view and a top view of a twelfth exemplary embodiment of a T-coupler device 1200 for a recreational structure according to the subject matter disclosed herein. As depicted in FIGS. 12A-12C, T-coupler device 1200 is similar to the exemplary embodiments of T-coupler devices described herein. It should be understood that T-coupler device 1200 could incorporate any of the features described in connection with T-coupler devices described herein. FIGS. 12A-12C also depict a T-coupler device that comprises side-sleeve members 1270a and 1270b that are offset from each other. Each side-sleeve member 1270a and 1270b comprises a generally round cross-sectional shape that is capable of receiving a flexible pole (not shown in FIGS. 12A-12C) for a safety enclosure, such as the exemplary safety enclosure described in connection with FIGS. 15 and 16. Side-sleeve members 1270a and 1270b are fixedly attached to joint member 1201 in a well-known manner, such as by, but not limited to, welding. In one exemplary embodiment, at least one of side-sleeve members 1270a and 1270b could be formed to comprise a blind aperture. In another exemplary embodiment, at least one of side-sleeve member 1270 could be formed to comprise a slot opening in the side of the side-sleeve member. It should be understood that either of side-sleeve members 1270a and 1270b could be formed to comprise any suitable cross-sectional shape.

FIGS. 13A and 13B depict front and side views of a thirteenth exemplary embodiment of a T-coupler device 1300 for a recreational structure according to the subject matter disclosed herein. As depicted in FIGS. 13A and 13B, T-coupler device 1300 is similar to the exemplary embodiments of T-coupler devices described herein. It should be understood that T-coupler device 1300 could incorporate any of the features described in connection with T-coupler devices described herein. FIGS. 13A and 13B also depict a T-coupler device that comprises a leg portion 1303 that is long enough to act as a leg support member for a recreational structure. In one exemplary embodiment, leg portion 1303 could be formed from a plurality of sections. In another exemplary embodiment leg portion 1303 could be short, similar to the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1-12 and be capable of receiving a leg support member of a recreational structure.

FIGS. 14A and 14B depict front and side views of a fourteenth exemplary embodiment of a T-coupler device 1400 for a recreational structure according to the subject matter disclosed herein. As depicted in FIGS. 14A and 14B, T-coupler device 1400 is similar to the exemplary embodiments of T-coupler devices described herein. It should be understood that T-coupler device 1400 could incorporate any of the features described in connection with T-coupler devices described herein. FIGS. 14A and 14B also depict a T-coupler device that comprises a leg portion 1403 that is long enough to act as a J-shaped leg support member for a recreational structure.

FIG. 15 depicts an exemplary embodiment of a safety enclosure 1500 according to the subject matter disclosed herein. Safety enclosure 1500 is designed to safely stop a user from falling from the rebounding surface of the recreational structure and operates as a fence around the rebounding surface, but does not act as a rebounder. Safety enclosure 1500 comprises a plurality of flexible rods 1501 that supports and suspends safety netting 1502. One suitable flexible rod that could be used for flexible rod 1501 is disclosed by U.S. Pat. No. 6,450,187 A1 to Lin et al., the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein. Safety netting 1502 comprises a net or fabric mesh and a plurality of sleeves formed along a top edge of the netting in which a rod 1501 can be inserted. When a rod 1501 is inserted into a sleeve, the two ends of the rod extend out from the sleeve. The ends of each flexible rod 1501 are then coupled to frame 1550 by inserting each end into an aperture or a side-sleeve member, such as any of the apertures and/or side-sleeves described in connection with T-coupler devices disclosed herein, so that the rod 1501 forms an arch that spans between two apertures (and/or side-sleeve members) that are spaced apart. For example, referring to FIG. 15, a rod 1501 forms an arch that spans between two T-coupler devices 1551 located at point A and point C. Points A and C are spaced apart, in this case, by two times the length of the span of frame 1550 between two T-coupler devices 1551 plus the length of one T-coupler device 1551 that is located at B. Other exemplary distances are possible for forming an arch by a rod 1501.

The sleeve formed in flexible netting 1502 is coupled to an arched flexible rod at least at a top portion of the arch formed by a flexible rod. The arrangement is repeated around the frame 1550 so that adjacent flexible rods 1501 overlap and provide lateral support to each other. In one exemplary embodiment, the number of flexible rods 1501 equals the number of T-coupler devices in frame 1550 of the recreational structure. In another exemplary embodiment, the number of flexible rods 1501 is a sub-multiple of the number of number of T-coupler devices in frame 1550 of the recreational structure. While flexible rods 1501 are depicted in FIG. 15 has extending substantially vertically from frame 1550, the apertures and/or side-sleeve members that receive flexible rods 1501 could be oriented and the size of the top of the safety netting at the sleeves is such that flexible rods 1501 bow outward from frame 1550 before bowing back in at the top of the safety netting. Additionally, safety netting 1502 comprises a door arrangement (not shown) for allowing entry into the area enclosed by safety enclosure 1500.

In one exemplary embodiment, a flexible rod 1501 comprises a ferrule 1601 disposed at each end of the rod, such as shown in FIG. 16A. The size of ferrule 1601 is selected so that it can be inserted into an aperture or a sleeve-sleeve member of a T-coupler device. One exemplary embodiment of a ferrule 1601 comprises an integrated stop flange 1602 for preventing the flexible rod from being inserted too far into an aperture or a side-sleeve member of a T-coupler device. Further, in one exemplary embodiment, flexible rod 1501 can be formed from one piece. In an alternative exemplary embodiment, a flexible rod 1501 can be formed from a plurality of shorter flexible members 1501a (FIGS. 16B and 16C). When flexible rod 1501 is formed from a plurality of flexible members 1501a, the flexible members 1501a can be fastened together using rigid connector ferrules, such as shown in FIGS. 16B and 16C. FIG. 16B shows one exemplary embodiment of a rigid connector ferrule 1602, and FIG. 16C shows an alternative exemplary embodiment of a rigid connector ferrule 1604. When flexible rod 1501 comprises a coated fiberglass rod, the jacket material of the fiberglass rod forming the coated portion should be removed if ferrule will be crimpled or glued.

FIG. 17 depicts an isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of a multiple bed trampoline system 1700 according to the subject matter disclosed herein. Multiple bed trampoline system 1700, as depicted, includes three jumping surfaces 1701 that are each surrounded by a corresponding enclosure formed from a polygonally shaped frame structure 1702 and a safety netting 1703. For the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 17, which is shown as having hexagonally shaped jumping surfaces and enclosures, it should be understood that other polygonally shaped jumping surfaces and corresponding enclosures could alternatively be used. Further, it should be understood that any number of jumping surfaces and corresponding enclosures can be combined to form a trampoline system according to the subject matter disclosed herein. Typically, at least two jumping surfaces and corresponding enclosures would be used. Further, it should be noted that FIG. 17 does not indicate all items for clarity of the drawing.

Jumping surfaces 1701 are attached to frame structure 1702 in a well-known manner, such as by, but not limited to, using spring members (not indicated with reference numerals). Safety netting 1703 is suspended from a top edge of the frame structure 1702 in a well-known matter, such as by, but not limited to, spring members. The tops of the enclosures are covered by safety netting (not shown for clarity).

An opening in the safety netting exists between each enclosure so that a gaming object, such as a ball, can be propelled by a user through the opening toward a goal formed in the netting 1703. It should be understood that the opening could be of a selected and/or variable size. FIG. 18 depicts a top view of the exemplary embodiment of a multiple bed trampoline system shown in FIG. 17. At least one goal 1704 is formed as part of netting 1703 for each enclosure. A user jumping within an enclosure in which a gaming object has been propelled would attempt to block or deflect the gaming object from entering the goal. It should be understood that there are a plurality of rules that can be devised governing play, that is, governing the propulsion of the gaming object toward a goal and the prevention of the gaming object from entering the goal. FIG. 18 also depicts a cushioning device covering 1705 at least a portion of an opening between enclosures. It should be understood that the cushioning device could cover at minimum a portion of the frame structure corresponding to the bottom of the opening to completely covering the frame structure surrounding the opening.

FIG. 19 depicts an isometric view of another exemplary embodiment of a T-coupler device 1900 according to the subject matter disclosed herein. As depicted in FIG. 19, T-coupler device 1900 has similarities to the other exemplary embodiments of T-coupler devices described herein. It should be understood that T-coupler device 1900 could incorporate any of the features described in connection with T-coupler devices described herein. T-coupler device 1900 comprises a plurality of arms members 1901 in which each arm member comprises an external surface 1906 that is capable of receiving an internal surface of a frame structure member. That is, the frame structure member fits around an arm member 1901. Alternatively, T-coupler device 1900 comprises at least one arm member 1901 comprising an external surface that is capable of receiving an internal surface of a frame structure member externally.

FIG. 20 depicts a recreational structure 2000, such as a trampoline, that can utilize a coupling device according to the subject matter disclosed herein. Recreational structure 2000 comprises a frame structure 2001, a rebounding bed 2002 and a plurality of spring members 2003, of which only a few are indicated. Frame structure 2001 comprises a plurality of horizontal frame members 2004, of which only a few are indicated, and a plurality of vertical frame members 2005, of which only a few are indicated. Adjacent vertical frame members 2005 are coupled by a leg support member 2006, of which only one is indicated, to provide structural support in a well-known manner.

The materials used for the T-coupler devices according to the subject matter disclosed herein should have sufficient strength for the loads and stresses that are expected to be experienced by the various component of the subject matter disclosed herein.

Although the foregoing disclosed subject matter has been described in some detail for purposes of clarity of understanding, it will be apparent that certain changes and modifications may be practiced that are within the scope of the appended claims. Accordingly, the present embodiments are to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive, and the subject matter disclosed herein is not to be limited to the details given herein, but may be modified within the scope and equivalents of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A coupling device for a recreational structure, comprising:

a first arm member comprising first and second ends, the first and second ends being arranged substantially in a plane, the first end comprising an external surface capable of receiving an internal surface of a first horizontal frame member of the recreational structure and the second end comprising one of an external surface capable of receiving one of an internal surface of a second horizontal frame member of the recreational structure and an internal surface capable of receiving an external surface of the second horizontal frame member of the recreational structure; and

a second arm member arranged along a longitudinal axis and capable of receiving a vertical frame member of the recreational structure, the longitudinal axis intersecting the plane.

2. The coupling device according to claim 1, wherein the first arm member further comprises a third end, the third end being arranged substantially in the plane that the first end and the second end are arranged, the third end comprising one of an external surface capable of receiving one of an internal surface of a second horizontal frame member of the recreational structure and an internal surface capable of receiving an external surface of the second horizontal frame member of the recreational structure.

3. The coupling device according to claim 1, further comprising at least one aperture between the first arm member and the second arm member, at least one of the apertures being capable of receiving a support member of a safety enclosure.

4. The coupling device according to claim 1, further comprising at least one side sleeve member comprising at least one aperture capable of receiving a support member of a safety enclosure.

5. The coupling device according to claim 1, further comprising the first horizontal frame member and the second horizontal frame member, the first horizontal frame member and the second horizontal frame member respectively being received by the first end and the second end and comprising part of the recreational structure.

6. The coupling device according to claim 5, wherein the recreational structure comprises a plurality of flexible rods, each flexible rod comprising a first end and a second end,

at least four apertures arranged in a first through fourth sequential arrangement along the recreational frame structure, each aperture capable of receiving an end of a flexible rod,

the first end of a first flexible rod being received by the first aperture and the second end of the first flexible rod being received by the third aperture, and the first end of the second flexible rod being received by the second aperture and the second end of the second flexible rod being received by the fourth aperture,

the first and second flexible rods each forming an arch shape between the apertures receiving the respective ends of the first and second flexible rods.

7. The coupling device according to claim 6, wherein the recreational structure further comprises a net coupled to at least a top arch portion of at least one of the first and second flexible rods.

8. The coupling device according to claim 7, wherein the first and second flexible rods provide a lateral support to each other.

9. A coupling device for a recreational structure, comprising:

a connector member comprising a first end and a second end, the first end of the connector member comprising an external surface and the second end of the connector member comprising an external surface;

a first arm member comprising first and second ends, the first and second ends being arranged substantially in a plane, the first end comprising an internal surface capable of receiving the external surface of the first end of the connector member and the second end comprising one of an external surface capable of receiving one of an internal surface of a first horizontal frame member of the recreational structure and an internal surface capable of receiving an external surface of the first horizontal frame member of the recreational structure; and

a second arm member arranged along a longitudinal axis and capable of receiving a vertical frame member of the recreational structure, the longitudinal axis intersecting the plane.

10. The coupling device according to claim 9, further comprising at least one aperture between the first arm member and the second arm member, at least one of the apertures being capable of receiving a support member of a safety enclosure.

11. The coupling device according to claim 9, further comprising at least one side sleeve member comprising at least one aperture capable of receiving a support member of a safety enclosure.

12. The coupling device according to claim 9, further comprising the first horizontal frame member and the second horizontal frame member, the first horizontal frame member and the second horizontal frame member respectively being received by the second end of the arm member and the second end of the connector member and comprising part of the recreational structure.

13. The coupling device according to claim 12, wherein the recreational structure comprises a plurality of flexible rods, each flexible rod comprising a first end and a second end,

at least four apertures arranged in a first through fourth sequential arrangement along the recreational frame structure, each aperture capable of receiving an end of a flexible rod,

the first end of a first flexible rod being received by the first aperture and the second end of the first flexible rod being received by the third aperture, and the first end of the second flexible rod being received by the second aperture and the second end of the second flexible rod being received by the fourth aperture,

the first and second flexible rods each forming an arch shape between the apertures receiving the respective ends of the first and second flexible rods.

14. A coupling device for a recreational structure, comprising:

a first connector member comprising a first end and a second end, the first and second ends of the first connector member comprising an exterior surface, the exterior surface of the second end capable of receiving an interior surface of a first horizontal frame member of the recreational structure;

a second connector member comprising a first end and a second end, the first and second ends of the second connector member comprising an exterior surface, the exterior surface of the second end capable of receiving an interior surface of a second horizontal frame member of the recreational structure;

a first arm member comprising first and second ends, the first and second ends being arranged substantially in a plane, the first end comprising an internal surface capable of receiving the external surface of the first connector member and the second end comprising an internal surface capable of receiving then external surface of the second connector member; and

a second arm member arranged along a longitudinal axis and capable of receiving a vertical frame member of the recreational structure, the longitudinal axis intersecting the plane.

15. The coupling device according to claim 14, further comprising at least one aperture between the first arm member and the second arm member, at least one of the apertures being capable of receiving a support member of a safety enclosure.

16. The coupling device according to claim 14, further comprising at least one side sleeve member comprising at least one aperture capable of receiving a support member of a safety enclosure.

17. The coupling device according to claim 14, further comprising the first horizontal frame member and the second horizontal frame member, the first horizontal frame member and the second horizontal frame member respectively being received by the second end of the arm member and the second end of the connector member and comprising part of the recreational structure.

18. The coupling device according to claim 17, wherein the recreational structure comprises a plurality of flexible rods, each flexible rod comprising a first end and a second end,

at least four apertures arranged in a first through fourth sequential arrangement along the recreational frame structure, each aperture capable of receiving an end of a flexible rod,

the first end of a first flexible rod being received by the first aperture and the second end of the first flexible rod being received by the third aperture, and the first end of the second flexible rod being received by the second aperture and the second end of the second flexible rod being received by the fourth aperture,

the first and second flexible rods each forming an arch shape between the apertures receiving the respective ends of the first and second flexible rods.

18. A safety enclosure structure, comprising:

a plurality of flexible rods, each flexible rod comprising a first end and a second end; and

a frame assembly comprising at least four apertures arranged in a first through fourth sequential arrangement along the frame assembly, each aperture capable of receiving an end of a flexible rod,

the first end of a first flexible rod being received by the first aperture and the second end of the first flexible rod being received by the third aperture, and the first end of the second flexible rod being received by the second aperture and the second end of the second flexible rod being received by the fourth aperture,

the first and second flexible rods each forming an arch shape between the apertures receiving the respective ends of the first and second flexible rods.

19. The safety enclosure structure according to claim 18, further comprising a net coupled to at least a top arch portion of at least one of the first and second flexible rods.

20. The safety enclosure structure according to claim 19, wherein the first and second flexible rods provide a lateral support to each other.

21. The safety enclosure according to claim 20, wherein the frame structure comprises a coupling device comprising:

a first arm member comprising first and second ends, the first and second ends being arranged substantially in a plane, the first end comprising an external surface capable of receiving an internal surface of a first horizontal frame member of the frame structure and the second end comprising one of an external surface capable of receiving one of an internal surface of a second horizontal frame member of the frame structure and an internal surface capable of receiving an external surface of the second horizontal frame member of the frame structure structure; and

a second arm member arranged along a longitudinal axis and capable of receiving a vertical frame member of the frame structure, the longitudinal axis intersecting the plane.

22. The safety enclosure according to claim 20, wherein the frame structure comprises a coupling device comprising:

a connector member comprising a first end and a second end, the first end of the connector member comprising an external surface and the second end of the connector member comprising an external surface;

a first arm member comprising first and second ends, the first and second ends being arranged substantially in a plane, the first end comprising an internal surface capable of receiving the external surface of the first end of the connector member and the second end comprising one of an external surface capable of receiving one of an internal surface of a first horizontal frame member of the frame structure and an internal surface capable of receiving an external surface of the first horizontal frame member of the frame structure; and

a second arm member arranged along a longitudinal axis and capable of receiving a vertical frame member of the frame structure, the longitudinal axis intersecting the plane.

23. The safety enclosure according to claim 20, wherein the frame structure comprises a coupling device comprising:

a first connector member comprising a first end and a second end, the first and second ends of the first connector member comprising an exterior surface, the exterior surface of the second end capable of receiving an interior surface of a first horizontal frame member of the frame structure;

a second connector member comprising a first end and a second end, the first and second ends of the second connector member comprising an exterior surface, the exterior surface of the second end capable of receiving an interior surface of a second horizontal frame member of the frame structure;

a first arm member comprising first and second ends, the first and second ends being arranged substantially in a plane, the first end comprising an internal surface capable of receiving the external surface of the first connector member and the second end comprising an internal surface capable of receiving then external surface of the second connector member; and

a second arm member arranged along a longitudinal axis and capable of receiving a vertical frame member of the frame structure, the longitudinal axis intersecting the plane.