BOUNCING APPARATUS

Abstract

The present invention provides a bouncing apparatus adjustable between a pogo stick configuration and a stilt configuration. The bouncing apparatus has a first frame member and a second frame member removably coupled to the first frame member. Both the first frame member and the second frame member include a body, a piston moveable with respect to the body, and a first biasing member extending between the piston and the body.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 61/597,553, filed Feb. 10, 2011, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

Exemplary embodiments of the present invention are generally related to a bouncing apparatus. More particularly, in some exemplary embodiments, the present invention provides a bouncing apparatus that can operate alternately as a pogo stick and a set of stilts.

BACKGROUND

Pogo sticks and stilts are popular entertainment items for kids and adults alike. Pogo sticks allow the user to bounce or jump with both feet moving together under the assistance of a spring or tension member, while stilts provide an elevated platform for walking.

SUMMARY

In some constructions, the present invention provides a bouncing apparatus including a first frame member. The first frame member has a first body, a first piston moveable with respect to the first body, a first biasing member extending between and in mechanical communication with the first piston and the first body, and a first foot support coupled to the first body. The bouncing apparatus also includes a second frame member removably coupled to the first frame member. The second frame member has a second body, a second piston moveable with respect to the second body, a second biasing member extending between and in mechanical communication with the second piston and the second body, and a second foot support coupled to the second body.

In other constructions, the above described bouncing apparatus may further include a first connector having a first plate member coupled to one of the first frame member and the second frame member, the first connector further having a second plate member coupled to the other of the first frame member and the second frame member, and where the first plate member is coupled the second plate member when the bouncing apparatus is in the first configuration, and where the first plate member is not coupled to the second plate member when the bouncing apparatus is in the second configuration.

In still other constructions, the above described bouncing apparatus may further include a second connector spaced a distance from the first connector, the second connector having a third plate member coupled to one of the first frame member and the second frame member, the second connector also having a fourth plate member coupled to the other of the first frame member and the second frame member, and where the third plate member is coupled to the fourth plate member when the bouncing apparatus is in the first configuration, and where the third plate member is not coupled to the fourth plate member when the bouncing apparatus is in the second configuration.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Other objects, features, advantages and details appear, by way of example only, in the following detailed description of embodiments, the detailed description referring to the drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a bouncing apparatus in a pogo stick configuration.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the bouncing apparatus shown in FIG. 1 with portions of a body wall removed for clarity.

FIG. 3a is a perspective view of the bouncing apparatus shown in FIG. 1, with a portion of a body wall partially removed and with a piston in an extended position.

FIG. 3b is a perspective view of the bouncing apparatus shown in FIG. 1, with a portion of a body wall partially removed and with the piston in a refracted position.

FIG. 4 is perspective view of the bouncing apparatus shown in FIG. 1 in a stilt configuration.

FIG. 5 is another perspective view of the bouncing apparatus shown in FIG. 1 in a stilt configuration.

FIG. 6 is a detailed view of the bouncing apparatus shown in FIG. 1, with some details removed for clarity.

FIG. 7 is a detailed view of the footpad assembly of the bouncing apparatus shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 8a is a front elevation view of a portion of the bouncing apparatus shown in FIG. 1 with a collar removed to illustrate a footpad in an unlocked position.

FIG. 8b is a front elevation view of a portion of the bouncing apparatus shown in FIG. 1 with the collar removed to show the footpad in a locked position.

FIG. 9 is a detailed view of a handle of the bouncing apparatus shown in FIG. 1 with areas removed for clarity.

FIG. 10 is an end view of the handle shown in FIG. 9.

FIGS. 11a and 11b illustrate a first connector for the bouncing apparatus shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a second connector for the bouncing apparatus shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a female member of the second connector shown in FIG. 12 with areas removed for clarity.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the male and female members of the second connector shown in FIG. 12 with areas removed for clarity.

FIGS. 15 and 16 are perspective views showing various stages of assembly of the bouncing apparatus shown in FIG. 1.

FIGS. 17a and 17b are front and back perspective views of another embodiment of a bouncing apparatus.

FIG. 18 is a section view of the bouncing apparatus shown in FIGS. 17a and 17b taken along its midline.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the bouncing apparatus shown in FIGS. 17a and 17b with sections removed for clarity.

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a footpad assembly of the bouncing apparatus shown in FIGS. 17a and 17b.

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a handle of the bouncing apparatus shown in FIGS. 17a and 17b.

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a bouncing apparatus.

FIG. 23 is a perspective view of the bouncing apparatus shown in FIG. 22 with portions removed for clarity.

FIGS. 24-27 illustrate another embodiment of the first connector.

FIG. 28 illustrates another embodiment of the second connector.

DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

FIGS. 1-16 illustrate a bouncing apparatus 10 able to operate as either a pogo stick or a pair of stilts. The apparatus 10 includes a first frame member 14a and a substantially similar second frame member 14b releaseably connectable to the first frame member 14a. The user can assemble the apparatus 10 in either a pogo stick configuration (FIGS. 1-3), where the first frame member 14a is attached to the second frame member 14b, or a stilt configuration (FIGS. 4 and 5), where the first frame member 14a is separate from the second frame member 14b.

Illustrated in FIGS. 1-8, the first frame member 14a includes a substantially tubular body 18a, a piston 22a received within and vertically movable with respect to the body 18a, a footpad assembly 26a adjustably coupled to the bottom 30a of the tubular body 18a, and a handgrip assembly 34a adjustably coupled to the top 38a of the tubular body 18a.

In the illustrated embodiment, the tubular body 18a is generally non-circular in cross-section defining an axis 19a therethrough and having a ridge 20a extending axially along one side of the body 18a. The body 18a is open on both top 38a and bottom 30a ends. The body 18a also includes a number of depressions 42a, each spaced vertically from one another and formed in the ridge 20a proximate the bottom 30a of the body 18a. When assembled, each depression 42a provides a possible mounting location for the footpad assembly 26a. More or fewer depressions 42a may be included in the body 18a dependent upon the number of footpad positions desired.

The tubular body 18a also includes a set of positioning apertures 46a (FIGS. 3a and 3b), each spaced vertically from one another proximate the top 38a of the body 18a. When assembled, each positioning aperture 46a is sized to receive a snap 50a (described below) to lock the handgrip assembly 34a with respect to the body 18a.

Illustrated in FIGS. 1-5, the piston 22a of the first frame member 14a is formed from tubular material and sized to be received telescopically within the bottom 30a of the body 18a. In the illustrated embodiment, the piston 22a has an outer diameter substantially slightly less than the inner diameter of the tubular body 18a. The piston 22a is moveable vertically into and out of the bottom 30a of the body 18a between an extended position (FIG. 3a) and a contracted position (FIG. 3b). When assembled, a biasing member or spring 54a is positioned within the body 18a that biases the piston 22a towards the extended position. The spring 54a extends between a stop (e.g., fastener 58a) and the piston 22a.

The piston 22a also includes a pair of vertically oriented slots 62a formed in the wall of the piston 22a. The slots 62a are generally vertically aligned with one another and spaced 180 degrees apart to allow a pin or fastener 66a to pass therethrough. When assembled, the piston 22a is secured within the tubular body 18a by the fastener 66a extending through the slots 62a (not shown, but identical to slots 62b) and a corresponding aperture in the body 18a (FIGS. 3a and 3b). Furthermore, since the fastener 66a travels along the slot 62a when the piston 22a moves with respect to body 18a, the length of the slots 62a at least partially defines the distance the piston 22a can traverse within the body 18a. In addition, the sidewalls (i.e., the width) of the slots 62a define the extent the piston 22a can rotate with respect to the body 18a.

The piston 22a also includes a foot or cap 70a positioned on the distal end 74a of the piston 22a opposite the slots 62a. In the illustrated embodiment, the cap 70a is generally formed from rubber or similar resilient material and is designed to impact the ground during use of the apparatus 10. Although the current embodiment utilizes a plain rubber cap 70a, in alternate embodiments the cap may include a tread pattern and the like on its bottom to improve grip.

Illustrated in FIGS. 1-8, the footpad assembly 26a is removably coupled to the body 18a and adjustable vertically therewith. During use, the user places his or her feet on the footpad assembly 26a. The footpad assembly 26a includes a collar 78a, a footpad 82a pivotably coupled to the collar 78a, and a clamp 86a.

The collar 78a is substantially “C” shaped having a first, curved portion 90a at least partially surrounding the tubular body 18a and a pair of panels 94a, each extending from the first portion 90a and defining a pair of apertures 98a. When the apparatus 10 is assembled, the collar 78a is slideable vertically along the length of the body 18a.

Illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7, the footpad 82a includes a plate 102a on which the user places his or her foot while using the apparatus 10. The plate 102a is substantially planar, and may or may not be covered by grip tape, rubber, or be textured to increase friction and grip. In some embodiments, the plate 102a may also include a harness or strap to secure the user's foot to the plate 102a.

The footpad 82a also includes a rib 106a extending substantially perpendicular from the bottom of the plate 102a and terminating in a curved boss 110a that can mate with depression 42a. The rib 106a defines a pivot aperture 114a, proximate the boss 110a, about which the footpad 82a rotates between a locked position (FIG. 8b), and an unlocked position (FIG. 8a).

The clamp 86a of the footpad assembly 26a includes a handle 118a having a cammed surface 122a, and a pair of pins 126a. When assembled, the pins 126a extend through the apertures 98a formed in the collar 78a and through the pivot aperture 114a of the footpad 82a. The clamp 86a is adjustable between a first position, where the cammed surface 122a forces the panels 94a of the collar 78a towards one another (i.e., squeezes the panels 94a against the rib 106a), and a second position, where the cam 122a allows the panels 94a of the collar 78a to move away from one another.

To adjust the footpad assembly 26a along the first frame member 14a, the user first pivots the clamp 86a from the first position to the second position, loosening the assembly 26a and allowing the footpad 82a to pivot with respect to the collar 78a. The user then pivots the footpad 82a from the locked position (FIG. 8b) to the unlocked position (FIG. 8a), causing the curved boss 110a to pivot out of the corresponding depression 42a and allowing the footpad assembly 26a to slide vertically along the length of the body 18a.

The user then slides the footpad assembly 26a vertically along the body 18a until the footpad 82a is in the desired position and aligned with the desired depression 42a. The user pivots the footpad 82a back into the locked position (FIG. 8b) causing the boss 110a to enter the corresponding depression 42a and locking the footpad assembly 26a in place. The user then returns the clamp 86a to the first position, locking the footpad 82a with respect to the collar 78a. Once locked, any weight or force applied by the user to the footpad 82a assembly is at least partially transmitted to the tubular body 18a by way of the boss 110a/depression 42a interface.

Illustrated in FIGS. 1-5 and 9-10, the handgrip assembly 34a extends from the top 38a of the tubular body 18a to provide a grasping point for the user's hands while using the apparatus 10. The handgrip assembly 34a includes an extension tube 130a and a handle 154a pivotably coupled to a first end 138a of the extension tube 130a and defining an axis 131a therethrough. The extension tube 130a is received within the top 38a of the body 18a and can move vertically therewith. More specifically, the extension tube 130a can be adjusted to change the distance between the top 38a of the body 18a and the handgrip 134a (distance D, FIG. 5) to accommodate users of different heights.

The extension tube 130a includes mounting boss 142a positioned on the first end 138a of the tube. The mounting boss 142a is substantially cylindrical and includes a plurality of locking holes 146a, each of which are sized to receive the pin 150a of the handle 154a (described below). The mounting boss 142a also includes a bore (not shown) to define an axis of rotation for adjusting the handle 154a.

In the illustrated embodiment, the extension tube 130a includes a spring loaded locking member or snap 50a (FIG. 3a-3b) positioned opposite the first end 138a. The snap 50a is sized to be received within a corresponding one of the positioning apertures 46a formed in the body 18a. During use, the snap 50a is used to lock the extension tube 130a in place with respect to the body 18a. In the illustrated embodiment, the user can depress the snap 50a, allowing the extension tube 130a to move vertically with respect to the body 18a and adjust the overall height of the apparatus. In alternate embodiments, a locking collar (not shown) or other form of retention between the extension tube and body may be used in place of the snap 50a.

Illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10, the handle 154a of the handgrip assembly 34a is coupled to the first end 138a of the extension tube 130a and is pivotable between a substantially horizontal orientation as shown in FIG. 1 (e.g., when the apparatus 10 is in the pogo stick configuration) and a substantially vertical orientation as shown in FIG. 4 (e.g., when the device is in the stilt configuration). The handle 154a is substantially cylindrical and is shaped to provide a comfortable grip for the user's hand. In the illustrated embodiment, the handle 154a is pivotably coupled to the attachment boss 142a by a fastener 144a passing through the bore.

The handle 154a includes an outer shell 158a defining a keyhole 162a (FIG. 10), and an inner pin 150a (FIG. 9) co-axial with the outer shell 158a and moveable therewith. In the illustrated embodiment, the keyhole 162a is shaped such that the distal end 174a of the pin 150a can only pass through the keyhole 162a in a limited number of orientations.

Illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10, the inner pin 150a includes a set of flanges 170a extending radially proximate the distal end 174a and a knob 178a opposite the distal end 174a. During use, the user can grasp the knob 178a, allowing the user to rotate and axially displace the inner pin 150a with respect to the outer shell 158a. When assembled, the inner pin 150a moves with respect to the outer shell 158a between a secured or locked position, where the handle 154a is locked with respect to the extension tube 130a, and an unlocked position, where the handle 154a may pivot with respect to the extension tube 130a. More specifically, when the pin 150a is in the locked position, the distal end 174a is at least partially received within a corresponding one of the locking holes 146a of the extension tube 130a. Furthermore, when the pin 150a is in the unlocked position, the distal end 174a is not positioned within a locking hole 146a. In the illustrated embodiment, a biasing member or spring 182a biases the pin 150a towards the locked position.

To lock the handgrip assembly 34a in place relative to the extension tube 130a, the user rotates the knob 178a until the flanges 170a align with the keyhole 162a. The user then biases the pin 150a axially through the keyhole 162a, causing the distal end 174a to be received within a corresponding one of the locking holes 146a. The user then secures the pin 150a in place by rotating the pin (e.g., generally 90 degrees), causing the flanges 170a to misalign with the keyhole 162a, locking the pin 150a and handle 154a in place.

To adjust the handgrip assembly 34a, the user rotates the pin 150a until the flanges 170a align with the keyhole 162a. The user then axially biases the pin 150a through the keyhole 162a, causing the distal end 174a to retract from the locking hole 146a. The user may then rotate the handle 154a with respect to the extension tube 130a into the desired orientation. The user then re-locks the handgrip assembly 34a in the manner described above.

The second frame assembly 14b is substantially similar to the first frame assembly 14a and therefore will not be discussed in detail herein. Common elements have been given the same reference numbers with an added “b”.

Illustrated in FIGS. 1-5 and 11a-11b, the apparatus 10 also includes a first connector 186. The first connector 186 includes a male member 190 coupled to the top 38b of the second frame assembly 14b and a female member 194 coupled to the top 38a of the first frame assembly 14a. The two members 190, 194 are removably coupleable to one another to join the body 18a of the first frame assembly 14a and the body 18b of the second frame assembly 14b. In the illustrated embodiment, the female member 194 includes a plate 198 defining a keyhole 202.

Illustrated in FIGS. 11a and 11b, the male member 190 of the first connector 186 includes a plate 206 extending toward body 18a and a locking knob 210 rotateably coupled to the plate 206. The locking knob 210 further includes a locking lug 214 that can only pass through the keyhole 202 in a limited number of orientations. To secure the male member 190 to the female member 194, the user must introduce the lug 214 into the keyhole 202 in the direction A (FIG. 15), making sure the lug 214 is properly oriented so it can pass through the keyhole 202. Once the lug 214 has passed through the keyhole 202, the user rotates the knob 210, making the lug 214 misalign with the keyhole 202, and locking the two members 190, 194 together (FIG. 11b).

Illustrated in FIGS. 12-14, the apparatus 10 also includes a second connector 218 spaced vertically from first connector 186. The second connector 218 includes a male lug 222 coupled to the bottom 30a of the first frame member 14a and a female lug 226 coupled to the bottom 30b of the second frame member 14b. In the illustrated embodiment, the female lug 226 defines a keyhole 230 (FIG. 13). During use in the pogo stick configuration, the second connector 218 and the first connector 186 releaseably couple the first frame member 14a to the second frame member 14b in a parallel relationship.

The male lug 222 of the second connector 218 includes a protrusion 234 extending toward body 18b when frame members 14a, 14b are connected. The protrusion 234 in turn includes one or more flanges 238 extending radially from a distal end 242 of protrusion 234. In the illustrated embodiment, the protrusion 234 is secured to the remainder of the male lug 222 by way of a locking screw 246 (FIG. 14). The user can change the orientation of the flanges 238 by loosening the screw 246 and rotating the protrusion 234. By doing so, the user is able to alter what angle B (FIG. 15) the first frame member 14a must be held with respect to the second frame member 14b to allow the protrusion 234 to pass through the keyhole 230 (FIG. 15).

To lock the male lug 222 of the second connector 218 to the female lug 226, the user aligns the flanges 238 of the protrusion 234 with the keyhole 230 of the female lug 226 and inserts the distal end 242 into the keyhole 230 in the direction C (FIG. 16). The user then rotates the first frame member 14a with respect to the second frame member 14b along the axis defined by protrusion 234, causing the flanges 238 to become misaligned with the keyhole 230, securing the two frame members 14a, 14b with one another.

To place the apparatus 10 in the pogo stick configuration, the user first attaches the first frame member 14a to the second frame member 14b. To do so, the user orients the first frame member 14a at an angle B (FIG. 15) with respect to the second frame member 14b, causing the flanges 238 of the protrusion 234 to align with the keyhole 230 of the female lug 226. The user then inserts the distal end 242 of the protrusion 234 into the keyhole 230 in direction C (FIG. 16). Once inserted, the user rotates the body 18a of the first frame member 14a with respect to the body 18b of the second frame member 14b causing angle B to shrink, which in turn draws the plates 198, 206 of the first connector 186 together in direction A. Frame members 14a, b are then parallel.

Once the locking lug 214 of the knob 210 is received within the keyhole 202 of the female member 194, the user can rotate the knob 210, as described above, securing the two frame members 14a, 14b to one another. The user may then adjust the footpad assemblies 26a, 26b and the handgrip assemblies 34a, 34b as describe above, preferably placing the handles 154a, 154b in the horizontal orientation.

Once the apparatus 10 is in the pogo stick configuration (FIGS. 1-3), the user can place one foot on each of the footpads 82a, 82b, grasp the handles 154a, 154b, and bounce as is well known in the art for pogo sticks. During use, the springs 54a, 54b of the first and second frame members 14a, 14b compress and extend in tandem to bounce the user with each jump.

To place the apparatus in the stilts configuration, the user first decouples the two frame members, working in reverse order as described above (i.e., decouple the first connector 186, rotate the bodies 18a, 18b to angle B, and decouple the second connector 218). The user may then adjust the footpad assemblies 26a, 26b and the handgrip assemblies 34a, 34b as appropriate, preferably placing the handles 154a, 154b in the vertical orientation (FIGS. 4 and 5).

Once the apparatus 10 is in the stilts configuration, the user may place his or her feet on the footpads 82a, 82b and grasp the handles 154a, 154b, using the individual frame members 14a, 14b as one normally uses stilts. The present invention also provides the additional feature that both pistons 22a, 22b will continue to operate (i.e., reciprocate), allowing the user to bounce with each foot individually. Although not illustrated, in alternate embodiments the user may lock the pistons 22a, 22b to provide a more rigid stilt walking experience.

FIGS. 17a-21 illustrate a bouncing apparatus 10′ according to another embodiment of the invention. The illustrated bouncing apparatus 10′ includes much of the same structure and has many of the same features as the bouncing apparatus 10 illustrated in FIGS. 1-16. Common elements have been given the same reference numbers with an added prime symbol. The following description focuses primarily upon structure and features of the bouncing apparatus 10′ that differ from the previous embodiment.

Illustrated in FIGS. 17a-20, the footpad assembly 26a′ of the bouncing apparatus 10′ includes a cylindrical sleeve 200a′ coupled to the body 18a′, a rib 204a′ extending outwardly from the sleeve 200a′ with a distal end 212a′, and a plate 102a′ coupled to the rib 204a′ proximate the distal end 212a′ to provide a surface on which the user may place his or her feet. In the illustrated embodiment, the sleeve 200a′ cannot move vertically on the body 18a′ and is fixed in place.

Illustrated in FIGS. 17a and 21, the handle 154a′ of the handgrip assembly 26a′ includes an outer shell 158a′, and a rod 216a′ co-axial with the outer shell 158a′ and moveable relative therewith. The rod 216a′ includes a distal end 220a′, a threaded portion 224a′ proximate the distal end 220a′, and a knob 228a′ attached opposite the distal end 220a′. During operation, the user rotates the knob 228a′, causing the rod 228a′ to advance axially with respect to the outer shell 158a′ by way of the threaded portion 224a′. The rod 216a′ moves with respect to the outer shell 158a′ between a locked position, where the distal end 220a′ is engaged within a corresponding one of the locking holes 146a′, and a unlocked position, where the distal end 220a′ is not received within one of the locking holes 146a′.

To lock the handgrip assembly 34a′, the user rotates the knob 228a′ clockwise to move the rod 216a′ towards the locked position and into engagement with the locking holes 146a′. When the user wants to unlock the handgrip assembly 34a′, the user rotates the knob 228a′ counter-clockwise, causing the rod 216a′ to move towards the unlocked position and out of engagement with the locking holes 146a′.

Illustrated best in FIG. 20, the second connector 232′ of the bouncing apparatus 10′ includes a first member 236′ extending from the sleeve 200b′ of the first frame member 14b′, and a second member 240′ extending from the sleeve 200a′ of the second frame member 14a′. In the illustrated construction, the first member 236′ includes an annular wall or tube 244′ having a pair of channels 248′ formed therein. More specifically, the channels 248′ are substantially “L” shaped and sized to receive at least a portion of a corresponding flange 252′ therein.

The second member 240′ of the second connector 232′ includes a protrusion 256′ sized to be at least partially received within the tube 244′ of the first member 236′. The second member 240′ also includes one or more flanges 252′ extending radially from the protrusion 256′ and sized to travel along the channels 248′ of the first member 236′.

To join the first member 236′ of the second connector 232′ to the second member 240′, the user axially aligns the protrusion 256′ with the tube 244′, making sure that the flanges 252′ are aligned with a corresponding channel 248′. The user then axially inserts the protrusion 256′ into the tube 244′ in direction E (FIG. 20), until the flanges 252′ reach the axial end of the channels 248′. The user then rotates the first frame member 14a′ with respect to the second frame member 14b′ causing the flanges 252′ to lock within the channels 248′.

Bouncing apparatus 10′ is otherwise assembled and used as bouncing apparatus 10.

FIGS. 22-23 illustrate a bouncing apparatus 10″ according to another embodiment of the invention. The illustrated bouncing apparatus 10″ includes much of the same structure and has many of the same properties as the bouncing apparatus 10, 10′ illustrated in FIGS. 1-21. Common elements have been given the same reference numbers with an added double prime symbol. The following description focuses primarily upon structure and features of the bouncing apparatus 10″ that differ from the previous embodiment.

Illustrated in FIGS. 22-23, the piston 22a″ of the bouncing apparatus 10″ is formed from tubular material and sized to be received within the bottom 30a″ of the body 18a″. In the illustrated embodiment, the piston 22a″ includes a ridge 270a″ extending radially from a first end 274a″. When assembled, the first end 274a″ of the piston 22a″ is telescopically received within the bottom 30a″ of the body 18a″ and secured therein by a sleeve 278a″.

Illustrated in FIG. 23, the sleeve 278a″ is substantially cylindrical in shape and is sized to be positioned between the body 18a″ and the piston 22a″. More specifically, when the first frame assembly 14a″ is assembled, the sleeve 278a″ is pressed into the bottom 30a″ of the body 18a″ where it contacts the ridge 270a″ of the piston 22a″ and ridge 280a″ acts as a stop. During operation, the piston 22a″ reciprocates vertically and rotates within the sleeve 278a″ but is restricted from leaving the body 18a″ by the ridge 270a″ contacting the top of the sleeve 278a″.

Bouncing apparatus 10″ is otherwise assembled and used as bouncing apparatus 10.

FIGS. 24-27 illustrate another embodiment 300 of the first connector. The first connector 300 of FIGS. 24-27 is used in much the same fashion as the first connector 186 described above. The first connector 300 includes a male member 304 coupled to the top 38a of the first frame assembly 14a and a female member 308 coupled to the top 38b of the second frame assembly 14b. The two members 304, 308 are removably coupleable to one another to join the body 18a of the first frame assembly 14a and the body 18b of the second frame assembly 14b.

Illustrated in FIGS. 25-27, the male member 304 of the first connector 300 includes a plate 312 coupled to the first frame assembly 14a having a substantially cylindrical pin 316 extending perpendicularly from plate 312 and in a direction generally perpendicular to the axis 19a of the body 14a. In the illustrated construction, the pin 316 includes a distal end 320 that is tapered and defines a groove 324 extending around a circumference of the distal end 320.

The female member 308 of the first connector 300 includes a plate 330 coupled to the second frame assembly 14b. The plate 330 defines an aperture 334 sized to allow the pin 316 to pass therethrough.

The female member 308 also includes a slider 338 slidably coupled to the plate 330 and defining a keyway 342. The keyway 342 includes a first opening 346 having a first diameter large enough for the pin 316 to pass therethrough, and a second opening 350 in communication with the first opening 346 having a second diameter smaller than the first diameter and smaller than the outer diameter of the pin 316. During use, the slider 338 is moveable between a locked position (see FIG. 27), where the second opening 350 aligns with the aperture 334 of the plate 330, and an unlocked position (see FIG. 26), where the first opening 346 aligns with the aperture 334 of the plate 330. The slider 338 also includes a button 354 that extends beyond the plate 330 to allow the user to manipulate the position of the slider 338. In the illustrated construction, the female member 308 includes one or more elastic members 358 to bias the slider 338 into the locked position.

To operate the first connector 300, the user biases the slider 338 into the unlocked position by pressing in the first direction B on the button 354. With the first opening 346 of the keyway 342 aligned with the aperture 334 of the plate 330, the pin 316 of the male portion 304 is able to pass through the aperture 334.

Once in position, the user releases the button 354 whereby the slider 338 is biased, via the elastic members 358, into the locked position. Once in the locked position, the second opening 350 of the keyway 342 is partially received within the groove 324 of the pin 316, coupling the male member 304 to the female member 308 and joining frame members 14a and 14b.

To release the male member 304 from the female member 308, the user presses the button 354 in the first direction A, placing the slider 338 into the unlocked position. The user can then remove the pin 316 from the aperture 334, separating frame members 14a and 14b.

FIG. 28 illustrates another embodiment 400 of the second connector 218. The second connector 400 of FIG. 28 is used in much the same manner as the second connector 218 described above. The second connector 400 includes a male lug 404 coupled to the bottom 30a of the first frame member 14a and a female lug 408 coupled to the bottom 30b of the second frame member 14b. In the illustrated embodiment, the female lug 408 defines a slot 412 open on one end and oriented in a facing relationship to male lug 404.

The male lug 404 of the second connector 400 includes a protrusion 416 extending therefrom and oriented to face female lug 408. The protrusion 416 in turn includes a flange 420 extending radially from a distal end 424 of protrusion 416.

To lock the male lug 404 of the second connector 400 to the female lug 408, the user aligns the protrusion 416 with the open end of the slot 412. The user can then introduce the protrusion 416 into the slot 412, making sure to keep the flange 420 within the female lug 408. Once positioned within the slot 412, the male and female lugs 404, 408 are coupled together and frame member 14a and 14b are also joined.

To detach the male lug 404 from the female lug 408, the user simply removes the protrusion 416 from the slot 412 by sliding the protrusion out of the open end of the slot 412.

Claims

1. A bouncing apparatus comprising:

a first frame member having: a first body, a first piston moveable with respect to the first body, a first biasing member extending between and in mechanical communication with the first piston and the first body, and a first foot support coupled to the first body; and

a second frame member removably coupled to the first frame member, the second frame member having: a second body, a second piston moveable with respect to the second body, a second biasing member extending between and in mechanical communication with the second piston and the second body, and a second foot support coupled to the second body.

2. The bouncing apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first foot support is adjustable with respect to the first body.

3. The bouncing apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a first hand grip coupled to the first body and a second hand grip coupled to the second body.

4. The bouncing apparatus of claim 3, wherein the first hand grip is adjustable with respect to the first body.

5. The bouncing apparatus of claim 4, wherein the first hand grip is vertically adjustable with respect to the first body.

6. The bouncing apparatus of claim 5, wherein the first hand grip defines a first axis and the first body defines a second axis, and wherein the first hand grip is adjustable between a first position where the first axis is generally perpendicular to the second axis, and a second position where the first axis is generally parallel to the second axis.

7. The bouncing apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first foot support includes a collar at least partially encompassing the first body, and a footpad pivotably coupled to the collar.

8. The bouncing apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a first connector extending between the first frame member and the second frame member, and wherein the first connector includes,

a male member coupled to one of the first frame member and the second frame member, the male member having a pin extending therefrom, and

a female member coupled to the other of the first frame member and the second frame member, the female member having a slider defining a keyhole.

9. The bouncing apparatus of claim 8, wherein the slider is moveable between a locked position where the pin is secured to the female member, and an unlocked position where the pin is free to be removed from the female member.

10. The bouncing apparatus of claim 7, further comprising a second connector removably coupling the first frame member and the second frame member.

11. A bouncing apparatus having a first configuration and a second configuration, the bouncing apparatus comprising:

a first frame member including, a substantially tubular body, a piston at least partially received within and vertically movable with respect to the body, a biasing member extending between and in mechanical communication with the body and the piston, and a foot support coupled to the body;

a second frame member including, a substantially tubular body, a piston at least partially received within and vertically moveable with respect to the body, a biasing member extending between and in mechanical communication with the body and the piston, and a foot support coupled to the body;

a first connector having a first plate member coupled to one of the first frame member and the second frame member, the first connector further having a second plate member coupled to the other of the first frame member and the second frame member; and

wherein the first plate member is coupled to the second plate member when the bouncing apparatus is in the first configuration, and wherein the first plate member is not coupled to the second plate member when the bouncing apparatus is in the second configuration.

12. The bouncing apparatus of claim 11, wherein the first frame member further includes a foot support adjustably coupled thereto.

13. The bouncing apparatus of claim 12, wherein the foot support includes a collar at least partially encompassing the body therein and a footpad pivotably coupled to the collar.

14. The bouncing apparatus of claim 13, wherein the footpad is adjustable between an unlock position and a locked position.

15. The bouncing apparatus of claim 13, wherein the collar is adjustable between a first configuration where the collar is able to move axially along the body, and a second configuration where the collar is locked with respect to the body.

16. The bouncing apparatus of claim 11, wherein the first plate member includes a pin, and wherein the second plate member includes a slider defining a keyhole therein.

17. The bouncing apparatus of claim 11, further comprising a second connector spaced a distance from the first connector, the second connector having a third plate member coupled to one of the first frame member and the second frame member, the second connector further having a fourth plate member coupled to the other of the first frame member and the second frame member.

18. The bouncing apparatus of claim 17, wherein the third plate member is coupled to the fourth plate member when the bouncing apparatus is in the first configuration, and wherein the third plate member is separate from the fourth plate member when the bouncing apparatus is in the second configuration.

19. A bouncing apparatus having a first configuration and a second configuration, the bouncing apparatus comprising:

a first frame member including, a substantially tubular body, a piston at least partially received within and vertically movable with respect to the body, a biasing member extending between and in mechanical communication with the body and the piston, a foot support adjustably coupled to the body, and a hand grip adjustably coupled to the body;

a second frame member including, a substantially tubular body, a piston at least partially received within and vertically moveable with respect to the body, a biasing member extending between and in mechanical communication with the body and the piston, a foot support adjustably coupled to the body, and a hand grip adjustably coupled to the body; and

a first connector having a first male member coupled to one of the first frame member and the second frame member, the first connector further having a first female member coupled to the other of the first frame member and the second frame member, and

a second connector spaced a distance from the first connector, the second connector having a second male member coupled to one of the first frame member and the second frame member, the second connector also having a second female member coupled to the other of the first frame member and the second frame member; and

wherein the first male member is coupled the first female member and the second male member is coupled to the second female member when the bouncing apparatus is in the first configuration, and wherein the first male member is separate from the first female member and the second male member is separate from the second female member when the bouncing apparatus is in the second configuration.