PORTABLE CLIMBING STRUCTURE

Abstract

The present invention is directed to a climbing structure. The climbing structure is configured to be portable, adjustable, modular, safe to use, and assembled without the use of tools. The portable climbing structure is comprised of at least two panels which are adjoined together to form the climbing surface of a frame. The climbing structure is further comprised of a padded layer covering the panels, a pair of side rails configured on a left and right vertical side of each panel, and a pair of adjustable bars connected to the adjoined panels at the side rails to adjust an incline angle. The frame and the padded layer are provided with a plurality of openings which receive detachable grips.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/909,754 filed on Oct. 2, 2019, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The technical field generally relates to a portable play structure for children, and more specifically to a portable climbing wall.

BACKGROUND

An important consideration for child development is play time that develops motor skills. Relating to play time, there are many play toys and structures targeted toward children. In particular, a climbing structure or a climbing wall may be an outdoor playing structure for children. Generally, the climbing wall is a permanently affixed structure at a park playground, school playground, etc. Children normally engage and play with the climbing wall by climbing up to a certain height with the assistance of hard points or permanently fixed or fastened handles placed on the climbing wall at different positions. Generally, these climbing wall structures are more of a permanent fixture and are bigger in dimension, non-collapsible, and non-portable. Playing outdoors is limited by the weather and playing on such structures may be hindered due to rain, snow, or extremely cold weather. Also, traveling to the playground where the structure is fixed is necessary, which may not always be feasible. Moreover, the climbing wall also requires a large area to buildup and is bulky in size. Hence, it makes the climbing wall difficult to move from place to place.

There are references that describe climbing structures for children. These references usually describe hard climbing surfaces that may have grips or integrated openings for climbing. The references also describe being able to adjust the angle of the incline. However, the references do not describe a structure that is designed with soft grips, padded surfaces or protective barriers for safety, portability, and adjustability in its features. Hence, there is a need for a small size, portable, collapsible, and easily configurable climbing wall that makes it is easier and safer for children to climb and improve their motor skills. There is also a need for a climbing wall that is designed for younger children, such as infants and toddlers. More specifically, there is a need for a climbing wall that can be easily assembled and disassembled into individual parts so that it is portable and reconfigurable at any place, either indoors or outdoors.

SUMMARY

Accordingly, the present disclosure provides a portable climbing structure, that is soft, foldable, and adjustable. The portable climbing structure is generally designed for children, and more specifically for infants and toddlers.

In a preferred embodiment, the portable climbing structure is configured to be portable, adjustable, modular, safe to use, and assembled without the use of tools. The portable climbing structure is comprised of a frame, a padded layer covering the frame, and adjustable bars connected to the frame to adjust an incline angle. The frame and the padded layer are provided with a plurality of openings which receive detachable grips. The portable climbing structure is also comprised of side rails which are configured on the sides of the frame and a removable padding is configured to be placed on the side rails as a protective barrier.

In the preferred embodiment, the frame is comprised of at least two panels which make up the climbing surface. The two panels are assembled and secured to each other by one or more hinges and a pin that connects the hinges. In a preferred embodiment, the hinge is comprised of three (3) circular features on each end of the two panels that are secured together. The pin is preferably removably attached through the hinges, and is pushed through the hinges on each end of the panels to connect the hinges and secure the two panels The two panel pieces are designed to be connected to a pair of adjustable bars, with one connected on each side of the adjoined panels which allow the angle of the frame to be adjusted and locked in at least four specific angles.

A front portion of the two panels are provided with the padded layer. A plurality of openings extends through the padded layer and the panels such as to accommodate the plurality of hand grips. In the preferred embodiment, the plurality of openings in the panels are designed as a clover shape. The grips are comprised of a grip, and a base. A portion of the grip is designed to allow the grip to be fastened to the panel. The grip and the base are coupled to each other wherein the base has a clover shape portion to complement the shape in the plurality of openings in the frame. In the preferred embodiment, the base also has a threaded portion which mates with a fastener to lock the grips in place. The grips are detachable and can be placed in any of the openings a user chooses. A plurality of plugs also comprises the portable climbing structure and are designed to fit into the plurality of openings such that these plugs may be placed in any openings which do not include the grips.

The portable climbing structure is also provided with an additional panel that may be placed at a top between the two panels so as to provide a flat surface at the top for a child to climb to. Other accessories are also included within the disclosure of the portable climbing structure such as a slide that can be hooked onto one of the panels so as to provide an optional surface for the child to slide down versus climbing down.

The presently disclosed portable climbing structure provides an improved, safe, and environmentally friendly play structure that is ideal for transporting and carrying around such that it is available wherever a user chooses to carry it. The portable climbing structure is easy to assemble and does not require tools. A person skilled in the arts will appreciate the other benefits obvious in the disclosure of the portable climbing structure.

The presently disclosed portable climbing structure is further described in the attached drawings and detailed description below.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an assembled climbing structure.

FIG. 2 illustrates a close-up view of a section of a climbing structure.

FIG. 3 is a close-up view of a section of the climbing structure illustrating the hinge and pin connection feature adjoining two panels.

FIG. 4A is a close-up view of a section of the climbing structure without the overlaid padding to illustrate the cloverleaf opening in the frame.

FIG. 4B is a perspective view of grip with a cloverleaf base to complement the opening in the frame.

FIG. 4C is a side internal view of a section of the frame and the padding with an inserted grip.

FIG. 4D is a side internal view of a section of the frame and the padding with an alternative embodiment of an inserted grip.

FIG. 4E is a side internal view of a section of the frame and the padding with an alternative embodiment of an inserted grip.

FIG. 4F is a side internal view of a section of the frame and the padding with an alternative embodiment of an inserted grip.

FIG. 4G is a side internal view of a section of the frame and the padding with an alternative embodiment of an inserted grip.

FIG. 4H is a side internal view of a section of the frame and the padding with an alternative embodiment of an inserted grip.

FIG. 5A illustrates a 120 degree angle of the climbing structure adjusted with the adjustable bar.

FIG. 5B illustrates a 90 degree angle of the climbing structure adjusted with the adjustable bar.

FIG. 5C illustrates a 60 degree angle of the climbing structure adjusted with the adjustable bar.

FIG. 5D illustrates the climbing structure in a closed configuration.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a climbing structure which is comprised of three panels.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the Summary above, in this Detailed Description, in the claims below, and in the accompanying drawings, reference is made to particular features (including method steps) of the invention. It is to be understood that the disclosure of the invention in this specification includes all possible combinations of such particular features. For example, where a particular feature is disclosed in the context of a particular aspect or embodiment of the invention, or a particular claim, that feature can also be used, to the extent possible, in combination with and/or in the context of other particular aspects and embodiments of the invention, and in the invention generally.

The term “comprises,” and grammatical equivalents thereof are used herein to mean that other components, ingredients, steps, among others, are optionally present. For example, an article “comprising” (or “which comprises”) components A, B, and C can consist of (i.e., contain only) components A, B, and C, or can contain not only components A, B, and C but also contain one or more other components.

The following description provides preferred exemplary embodiments only, and is not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the invention. The following description of the preferred exemplary embodiment will provide those skilled in the art with an enabling description for implementing a preferred exemplary embodiment of the invention. It shall be understood that various changes may be made in the function and arrangement of elements without departing from the scope of the invention as set forth in the claims.

The present disclosure recognizes the unsolved need for a soft, foldable, adjustable, and portable climbing wall structure for children. Specifically, the invention relates to a foldable, indoor and outdoor climbing wall that is collapsible and configurable at the same time without the use of tools. The following description provides for a climbing wall that is configured to be easily carried and transported and thus allows it to be used anywhere. Additionally, the climbing wall is designed to be modular, safe for children to use, and comprised of materials that are environmentally safe.

The climbing structure is comprised of a frame, a padded layer, and a plurality of grips. The frame is comprised of at least two panels, a pair of side rails for each panel, a pair of adjustable bars, and a handle. The panels and the padded layer are provided with a plurality of openings which are designed to receive the detachable grips for climbing. A removable tube like padding also comprises part of the climbing structure and is configured to be placed over the side rails for protection.

The frame is comprised of at least two panels that are joined together to provide a stable surface for climbing. Each panel of the frame is preferably a flat, four-sided surface. The panels have a front surface, a back surface, a top side, a bottom side, a left side, and a right side. The top sides of the panels will be joined together. The front surfaces of the panels are the climbing sides of the climbing structure. The left side and right side are the vertical sides of the climbing structure. The panels may have a dimension including a height, width, and depth. Generally, the height will be more than the width and accommodate some climbing distance. In a preferred embodiment, the panels will be fashioned from a hard material which is light but can support the weight of a child. Materials that may be used include and are not limited to wood, plastic, composite, or a combination thereof. In alternate embodiments, the panels may be made of other material commonly used in this field, such as and not limited to metal.

As described above, the frame is comprised of at least two panels that are joined together at the top surface of each panel. Each panel has a hinge connected at the top surface. Other folding mechanisms and attachment systems known in the field are also contemplated to be used to connect the panels. In a preferred embodiment, the hinge is comprised of three circular features on each end of the top side of each panel. The top sides of each panel are aligned together with the hinge such that a quick release, removeable pin is then placed through the hinges at each end to securely adjoin the panels, requiring no tools to assemble or disassemble. Removing the quick release pin would disjoin and separate the two panels. Thus, the quick release pins make use of a method to give a locking action and are used for assembling and disassembling without using tools. A protective cover is placed over the gap created between the two panels when they are connected so as to prevent any injury with a body part getting caught in the gap.

In an alternate embodiment, the frame is comprised of at least three panels that are joined together to provide a stable surface for climbing. In this embodiment, a panel is provided that includes one or more hinges on the ends of the top side and the bottom side. This four hinged panel is adjoined to the remaining two panels that are described above. The four hinged panel is placed between these two panels and adjoined to those panels at their top sides by aligning the hinges and securing them together with the quick release pins. In this embodiment, the four hinged panel, or the middle panel, is arranged at the top when assembled and is parallel to the ground that the climbing structure is placed on. Thus, a child would climb up one panel which is at an incline to get to the top panel, which is a flat surface parallel to the ground, and then climb down the opposite panel, which is also at an incline.

The frame is also comprised of a side rail. Each panel of the frame is configured with at least two side rails along the vertical sides, with one side rail on each of the left side and the right side. The side rails provide a form of protective barrier around the vertical sides of the frame. In a preferred embodiment, the side rails and panels are dove tailed together and secured together with screws or similar fasteners. In an alternate embodiment, the panels are configured with the side rails, such that the side rails are a permanent feature of the panels. The side rails are fashioned of the same hard material as the panels which include and are not limited to wood, plastic, composite, or a combination. In alternate embodiments, the panels may be made of other material commonly used in this field, such as and not limited to metal.

The frame is also comprised of the pair of adjustable bars. The adjustable bars are designed to attach to the side rails configured on the panels. The side rails are either configured with one hole or a plurality of pass-through holes that are aligned vertically in a straight line and include at least two pass-through holes. Each panel of the frame is configured with each type of side rail such that one vertical side is configured with the side rail with one hole and the other vertical side is configured with the side rail with the plurality of pass-through holes. In the preferred embodiment, the side with the plurality of pass-through holes includes four pass-through holes. The panels are configured with the side rails such that the hole and pass-through holes configuration will always be the same. For example, the panel pieces will be configured with the side rails including the plurality of pass-through holes on the left sides and the therefore the side rails with the one hole will be on the right sides, or vice versa. Thus, when the panel pieces are adjoined together at the top end with the hinge and the pin, the side rails of the adjoined panels will line up with the one hole and the pass through holes on the same side such that the pair of adjustable bars can be connected to the side rails, with one on each side.

As disclosed above, the side rails are configured to be connected to the adjustable bar. The adjustable bars allow the angle of incline to be adjusted and securely lock it in position. The adjustable bar is an elongated piece with two ends, a pivoting end and an adjustable end. The pivoting end of the adjustable bar is secured to the side rail that contains a single hole. The pivoting end is aligned with the one single hole on the side rail and secured to the side rail with securing means such as and not limited to a screw. The adjustable end of the adjustable bar includes a thumbscrew and is connected to the side rail having the plurality of pass-through holes; the adjustable bar connects to one of the pass-through holes and is securely locked with the thumbscrew at a chosen angle. The adjustable end thereby allows the adjustable bar to attach to the side rail and lock the climbing structure at a specific angle.

In the preferred embodiment, the adjustable bar can be attached and locked into four different angles. As such, the choices for the specific angles include, but are not limited to, a 120 degree angle, a 90 degree angle, a 60 degree angle, and a closed position of zero degrees.

The frame also comprises the handle. The handle is configured near the bottom end of the panel. In this embodiment, the handle is configured as an opening in the panel such that a person may place a hand through the handle to carry the climbing structure. In other embodiments, the handle can be connected to the panel rather than being built into the panel.

The climbing structure also comprises the padded layer. The padded layer overlays and covers the front surface of the panels of the frame. In a non-limiting preferred embodiment, the padded layer is permanently attached to the panels. In other non-limiting embodiments, the padded layer is attached non-permanently to the panels with means that allow the padded layer to be attached and removed from the panels, such as, but not limited to, Velcro® and snap and button fasteners. In a non-limiting preferred embodiment, the padded layer is made from Ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) to give the padded layer a soft and padded feel. The EVA padded layer is arranged into a flat layer and is laid over the front surfaces of the panels to provide a soft climbing surface. In other non-limiting embodiments, the padded layer is made with a stuffing material with an outer layer that encloses the stuffing. In this embodiment, the stuffing layer and the outer layer are also arranged into a flat layer so that the padded layer can be laid over the front surfaces of the panels. Stuffing material may include organic, synthetic, or eco-friendly stuffing. Organic and or eco-friendly stuffing material may be derived from and not be limited to corn, bamboo, cotton, wool, and kapok. Synthetic stuffing material may be derived from and not limited to polyester and toy stuffing pellets.

In the non-limiting preferred embodiment, the panels comprising the frame include a plurality of openings over the front surface which extend through the back surface. The padded layer also includes a plurality of openings such that the openings in the padded layer align with the openings in the frame, wherein the openings are open from the padded layer to the front surface of the panel and through the back surface of the panel. In other non-limiting embodiments, the plurality of openings over the front surface of the panels do not go through the back surface (i.e. do not open at the back surface), such that the openings go from the padded layer through the front surface of the panel without an opening in the back surface. In yet another embodiment, the openings are only included in the padded layer with no openings in the panels. The plurality of openings are evenly interspersed on the panels and the padded layer. In other non-limiting embodiments, the openings are scattered throughout the panels and padded layer in a non-even manner such that the plurality of openings are not in a line.

In the preferred embodiment, the plurality of openings in the panels have a clover shape. As discussed below, the clover shape allows the grip to be inserted in four different orientations. In other non-limiting embodiments, the plurality of openings can be in other shapes such as and not limited to a circle/slot, a circle, an oval, a square, a rectangle, a triangle, and a polygon (i.e heptagon, hexagon, etc.).

The plurality of openings are designed to allow grips to be inserted into them. The grips are interspersed throughout the panels and allow the child to climb the climbing structure using the hands and feet. The grips are comprised of a foam portion and a base. The base is designed such that a portion of the base is securely fastened to the panel. In the preferred embodiment, the grip portion is fashioned out of material that is soft such as, but not limited to, EVA foam. The grip portion can also be fashioned by other non-toxic material known in the art. In the preferred embodiment, the grip portion is designed in a shape resembling the number eight (8). This allows two different orientations of the grip portion for use in climbing: a vertical orientation or a horizontal orientation. In other non-limiting embodiments, the grip portion is designed with other shapes that have a cross section including and not limited to a circle, an oval, a square, a rectangle, a triangle, and a polygon (i.e. heptagon, hexagon, etc.). In yet other non-limiting embodiments, the grip portion can also include animal shapes.

The base is coupled to the grip portion and is generally designed to conform to the shape of the plurality of openings in the panels. In the preferred embodiment, the base will have a portion that has a clover shape such that it fits within the clover shape of the plurality of openings in the frame (discussed above). The clover shape base portion prevents spinning of the grip and essentially allows the grip to be placed into an opening in one of four different orientations. In the preferred embodiment, the base includes a threaded portion that is designed to extend out from the back surface of the frame such that a fastener can be screwed onto the base and securely hold the grip in place. The fastener may include and not be limited to a collar or similar fastener. The threaded portion of the base also serves a safety purpose wherein the threaded portion is color coated. When a colored threaded portion of the base extends past the fastener (when screwed onto the threaded portion on the back surface of the panel), it visually signals that the grip is properly secured to the panel and safe to use.

The base and the fastener are fashioned from material that is strong and can withstand the weight of a child. Materials include, but are not limited to, plastic, wood, metal, composite, or a combination thereof.

In the preferred embodiment, the placement of the grips is adjustable. In this embodiment, the grips can be inserted in any opening in the padded layer of the panels. The grips can be removed and moved to other openings on the padded layer and panels. The grips can be placed in all the openings or can be inserted in only a few openings to offer variety and challenge. The climbing structure is also comprised of plugs that can be placed over the openings on the padded layer which do not receive the grips.

Alternate embodiments of grips are also described and comprise part of the climbing structure. One embodiment is comprised of a grip portion which is coupled to a base that has a hollow threaded portion which a fastener with a threaded portion can be inserted into. In this embodiment, the base is inserted through an opening in the panel wherein the grip portion rests against the padded layer on the front side of the panel and the fastener with the threaded portion is inserted into the hollow threaded portion of the base to secure the grip onto the panel.

Another alternate embodiment of a grip is comprised of a grip portion which is coupled to a base which has an opening designed to accommodate a screw. The grip is also comprised of a fastener with a corresponding opening designed to accommodate the screw. In this embodiment, the base is inserted through an opening in the panel wherein the grip portion rests against the padded layer on the front side of the panel, the fastener is fit against the base on the back side of the panel, and the screw is inserted through the fastener and the base to secure the grip.

Another alternate embodiment of a grip is comprised of a grip portion which is coupled to a base which has a recessed portion designed to accept a clip. In this embodiment, the base is inserted through the opening in the panel wherein the grip portion rests against the padded layer on the front side of the panel and the recessed portion on the base exits through and is exposed on the back side of the panel. The clip is inserted onto this recessed portion on the backside of the panel to secure the grip onto the panel. The clips can include, but are not limited to, a spring clip, a cotter pin, or any other pins or clips that are known to be capable of being used in this type of design.

Another alternate embodiment of a grip is comprised of a grip portion which is coupled to a base which has an opening to accommodate a screw. The grip is also comprised of a fastener which has a thumb screw design with a screw portion. In this embodiment, the base is inserted through an opening in the panel wherein the grip portion rests against the padded layer on the front side of the panel and the screw portion on the fastener is screwed onto the base on the back side of the panel to secure the grip to the panel.

Another alternate embodiment of a grip is comprised of a grip portion which is coupled to a base having snap hooks. The base is designed with snap hooks such that the base is inserted through an opening in the panel and the snap hooks rest against the back side of the panel to securely hold the grip to the panel.

The climbing structure will also be comprised of accessories that can be attached to the climbing structure. The accessory can include the additional panel (disclosed earlier) which can be attached at the top end in between the two panels used at an angle of incline. Another accessory includes a sliding surface that can be attached to one side of the frame. Attachment means may include, but not be limited to, a hook at a top end of the slide that can be slid over the top end of one of the panels of the frame.

An exemplary configuration of a climbing structure is shown in the accompanying figures. With reference to FIG. 1, a non-limiting preferred embodiment 100 of a climbing structure is shown. In this preferred embodiment, a climbing structure is generally comprised of a frame, wherein the frame is comprised of at least two panels 102, a pair of side rails 104 for each panel 102, and a pair of adjustable bars 106 connected to the side rails 104 on each of a side of the panels 102. FIG. 1 further illustrates a plurality of grips 120 and an overlaid padded layer 110 that overlays the panels 102 of the frame. An elongated padded layer in a shape of a tube is also provided to cover each side rail 104, referred to as a padded tube 130. The climbing structure also comprises a handle 140.

As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the frame of the climbing structure 100 is comprised of at least two panels 102 that are joined together at a top end of each panel 102. Preferably, the panels 102 are hingedly connected. As illustrated in the close-up view of the connection in FIG. 3, each panel 102 has a hinge 150 connected at the top end. The hinge 150 is comprised of three circular features on each end of the top side of each panel 102. The top sides of each panel 102 are aligned together with the hinge 150 and a pin, such as a quick release pin 152, is then placed through the hinges 150 at each end to securely adjoin the panels 102, requiring no tools to assemble or disassemble. The quick release pin 152 can be removed to disjoin and separate the two panels 102. Additionally, a protective cover preferably is placed over the gap created between the two panels when they are connected (not shown).

Referring to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the frame of the climbing structure 100 is also comprised of the side rail 104. Each panel 102 of the frame is configured with at least two side rails 104, with each side rail 104 positioned on a vertical side of the panel 102. Accordingly, a left side and a right side of a panel 102 contains a side rail 104. The side rails 104 provide a form of protective barrier around the vertical sides comprising the frame. The side rails 104 and panels 102 can be attached to each other. For example, the side rails 104 and panels 102 can be dove tailed and secured together with screws or alternatively, the panels 104 can be permanently attached to the side rails 102. The elongated padded tube 130 is provided to be placed over the side rails 104 to add a padded protection.

The side rails 104 are also configured to connect to the adjustable bars 106. As illustrated in the close-up view in FIG. 2, the side rails 104 are either configured with one hole 154 or a plurality of pass-through holes 156 that are aligned vertically in a straight line. In FIG. 2, four pass-through holes 156 are shown. Each panel 102 of the frame preferably is configured with each type of side rail 104 such that one vertical side is configured with the side rail 104 with one hole 154 and the other vertical side is configured with the side rail 104 with the plurality of pass-through holes 156.

The panels 102 are configured with the side rails 104 such that the configuration of the single hole 154 and pass-through holes 156 will always be the same. For example, the panels 102 will be configured with the side rails 104 including the plurality of pass-through holes 156 on the left sides of the panels, and therefore the side rails 104 with the one hole 154 will be on the right sides of the panels, or vice versa. Accordingly, each panel 102 will have the same side rail 104 configuration as the other panel 102. Thus, referring back to FIG. 2, when the panels 102 are adjoined together at the top end, the side rails 104 of the adjoined panels 102 will line up such that the one hole 154 and the pass through holes 156 are on the same side of the structure 100, which allows the pair of adjustable bars 106 to be connected to the side rails 104, with one on each side of the adjoined panels 102.

The adjustable bars 106 are connected to the side rails 104 on the panels 102. The adjustable bar 106 is an elongated piece with two ends, a pivoting end 162 and an adjustable end 164. The pivoting end 162 of the adjustable bar 106 is aligned with and secured to the side rail 104 at the single/one hole 154. The pivoting end 162 and the side rail 104 are secured together with securing means that permit the pivoting end 162 to pivot, such as, but not limited to, a screw 166. The adjustable end 164 includes a thumbscrew 168 and is connected to the side rail 104 (having the plurality of pass-through holes 156) at one of the pass-through holes and is securely locked in place using the thumbscrew 168.

The adjustable end 164 can be secured at any one of the pass-through holes 156 which allows the adjustable bar 106 to attach to and lock the climbing structure 100 at a desired angle. FIG. 5A through FIG. 5D illustrate specific angles that the climbing structure 100 can be adjusted to. As shown, the adjustable bar 106 can be attached and locked into any one of four different angles. FIG. 5A shows the climbing structure 100 at a 120 degree angle; FIG. 5B shows the climbing structure 100 at a 90 degree angle; FIG. 5C shows the climbing structure 100 at a 60 degree angle, and; FIG. 5D shows the climbing structure 100 in a closed position. In the closed position, the climbing structure 100 can be carried and stored easily, such as in a trunk of a car, thereby making it portable.

The frame also comprises the handle 140. As shown in FIG. 1, the handle 140 is configured near the bottom end of the panel 102. In this embodiment, the handle 140 is configured as an opening in the panel 102 such that a person may place a hand through the handle 140 to carry the climbing structure 100. In other embodiments, the handle can be connected to the panel rather than being built into the panel.

Referring back to FIG. 1, the climbing structure 100 is also comprised of the padded layer 110. The padded layer 110 is overlays and covers the front surfaces of the panels 102 of the frame. In a non-limiting preferred embodiment, the padded layer 110 is permanently attached to the front surfaces of the panels 102. In other non-limiting embodiments, the padded layer 110 is attached non-permanently to the panels 102 with means that allow the padded layer 110 to be attached and removed from the panels 102. The padded layer 110 is arranged into a flat layer and is laid over the front surfaces of the panels 102 to provide a soft climbing surface.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the panels 102 of the frame include a plurality of openings, referred to as panel openings 103, over the front surface of the panel 102 and which extend through the back surface. The padded layer 110 also includes a plurality of openings, referred to as padded layer openings 113, such that the padded layer openings 113 align with the panel openings 103. The panel openings 103 and padded openings 113, are aligned together and interspersed throughout the panels 102 and the padded layer 110. The panel openings 103 and the padded layer openings 113 are designed to accommodate and allow grips 120 to be inserted into them.

Referring to FIGS. 4A through 4C, a preferred embodiment is shown illustrating the panel openings 103, the grip 120, and the grip inserted into the panel 102 with the padded layer 110, respectively. FIG. 4A shows a close-up view of a section of the front surface of the panel 102 without the padding layer to illustrate the panel openings 103. In this preferred embodiment, the panel openings 103 are shown to have a clover shape. In this embodiment, the clover shape allows the grip 120 to be inserted in four different orientations.

Referring to FIG. 4B, an exemplary embodiment of the grip 120 is illustrated, whereby the grip comprises a grip portion 122, a base 124, and a fastener 126. The base 124 is coupled to the grip portion 122 and is generally designed to conform to the shape of the panel openings 103 in the panels 102 of the frame. In the preferred embodiment, the base 124 is designed with a portion that has a clover shape, such that it fits within the clover shape of the panel openings 103 in the panels 102. FIG. 4C illustrates an inserted grip 120, wherein the base 124 is inserted into the padded layer 110 and extends through the panel 102 and is secured at the back surface of the panel 102 with the fastener 126. The grip portion 122 rests against the front surface of the panel 102 with the padded layer 110. The clover shape portion of the base 124 prevents spinning and essentially allows the grip 120 to be placed in the panel openings 103 in any one of four orientations. For example, the figure eight shaped grip 120 (as shown in the FIGS. 1-3, 4B, and 6) can be oriented with the eight in a vertical position or alternatively it can be placed with the figure eight in a horizontal position. The base 124 also includes a threaded portion that is designed to extend out from the back surface of the panel 102 such that the fastener 126 can be screwed onto the threaded portion of the base 124 and securely hold the grip 120 in place. The threaded portion of the base 124 also serves a safety purpose wherein the threaded portion is color coated. When a colored threaded portion of the base 124 extends past a fastener 126 that is screwed onto the threaded portion on the back surface of the panel 102, it visually signals that the grip 120 is properly secured to the panel and safe to use.

As disclosed above, a plurality of grips 120 are provided such that an individual grip 120 can be inserted in any opening in the padded layer 110 and panels 102. The grips 120 can be removed and moved to other openings on the padded layer 110 and panels 102. The grips 120 can be placed in all the openings or can be inserted in only a few openings to offer variety and challenge. The climbing structure is also comprised of plugs (not shown in the figures) that can be placed over the openings on the padded layer which do not receive the grips 120 such that the plugs cover the openings and provide an even, smooth area in place of the grips 120.

Alternate embodiments of grips are also described herein and shown in FIGS. 4D to 4H. In one embodiment shown in FIG. 4D, a grip 300 is comprised of a grip portion 322 which is coupled to a base 324 that has a hollow threaded portion wherein a fastener 326 having a threaded portion can be inserted into. In this embodiment, the base 324 is inserted through an opening in the panel wherein the grip portion 322 rests against the padded layer 110 on the front side of the panel 102 and the fastener 326 with the threaded portion inserted into the hollow threaded portion of the base 324 on the back side of the panel 102 to secure the grip onto the panel 102.

FIG. 4E illustrates another alternate embodiment of a grip 400. In this embodiment, grip 400 is comprised of a grip portion 422 which is coupled to a base 424 which has an opening designed to accommodate a screw 421. The grip 400 is also comprised of a fastener 426 with a corresponding opening designed to accommodate the screw 421. In this embodiment, the base 424 is inserted through an opening in the panel 102 wherein the grip portion 422 rests against the padded layer 110 on the front side of the panel 102, the fastener 426 is fit against the base 424 on the back side of the panel 102, and the screw 421 is inserted through the fastener 426 and the base 424 to secure the grip 422 to the panel 102.

FIG. 4F illustrates yet another alternate embodiment of a grip 500, which is comprised of a grip portion 522 coupled to a base 524 which has a recessed portion 523 which is designed to accept a clip 525. In this embodiment, the base 524 is inserted through the opening in the panel 102 wherein the grip portion 522 rests against the padded layer 110 on the front side of the panel 102 and the recessed portion 523 on the base 524 exits through and is exposed on the back side of the panel 102. The clip 523 is inserted onto this recessed portion 523 on the backside of the panel 102 to secure the grip 500 onto the panel 102.

FIG. 4G illustrates another alternate embodiment of a grip 600 which is comprised of a grip portion 622 that is coupled to a base 624 which has a threaded opening. The grip 600 is also comprised of a thumb screw fastener 626. In this embodiment, the base 624 is inserted through an opening in the panel 102 wherein the grip portion 622 rests against the padded layer 110 on the front side of the panel 102 and the fastener 626 is screwed onto the base 624 on the back side of the panel 102 to secure the grip 600 to the panel 102.

FIG. 4H illustrates yet another alternate embodiment of a grip 700. In this embodiment, grip 700 is comprised of a grip portion 722 which is coupled to a base 724. The base is designed with a pair of snap hooks 727 such that the base 724 is inserted through an opening in the panel 102 and the snap hooks 727 snap into place through the opening to rest against the back side of the panel 102 and securely hold the grip 700 to the panel 102.

FIG. 6 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the climbing structure 200. In this figure, the frame is shown to be comprised of at least three panels, wherein a third panel, referred to as a four hinged panel 270 is joined together with a pair of two hinged panels 202 to provide a stable surface for climbing. In this embodiment, the four hinged panel 270 is adjoined in the middle of the two hinged panels 202. The four hinged panel 270 includes hinges (not shown in the figure) on the ends of the two opposing sides that connect to the two hinged panels 202. The two hinged panels include a pair of hinges (not shown in the figure) on each side of a top end of the panels 202. The four hinged panel 270 is placed between these two panels 202 and connected to those panels 202 at their top sides by aligning the hinges and securing them together, such as by the quick release pins 256 on all four ends. In this embodiment, the four hinged panel 270, or the middle panel, is arranged at the top of the climbing structure 200 when assembled and is parallel to the ground/flat surface that the climbing structure 200 is placed on. The two hinged panels 202 are linked together with a pair of adjustable bars 206. Thus, the child for example would climb up one of the inclined panels 202 to get to the top four hinged panel 270, which is a flat surface parallel to the ground, and then go down the opposite inclined panels 202. In this figure, the four hinged panel 270 is shown with an overlaid padded layer 210, and a plurality of grips 220. In alternate embodiments, the four hinged panel 270 may also be provided without grips and generally be comprised of a padded layer 210 without openings.

The corresponding structures, materials, acts, and equivalents of all means or step plus function elements in the claims below are intended to include any structure, material, or act for performing the function in combination with other claimed elements as specifically claimed. The description of the present invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and description but is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the invention in the form disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and the practical application, and to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the invention for various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. The present invention according to one or more embodiments described in the present description may be practiced with modification and alteration within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Thus, the description is to be regarded as illustrative instead of restrictive of the present invention.

Claims

1. A climbing structure comprising:

a frame, the frame further comprising: at least two panels adjoined together, the panels having a front surface, a back surface, a top edge, a bottom edge, a left vertical side, and a right vertical side; a pair of side rails, one side rail configured on the left vertical side of each panel and the second side rail configured on the right vertical side of each panel; a pair of adjustable bars configured to be connected to the side rails of the adjoined panels, one on each side of the adjoined panels and linking the panels together;

a padded layer overlaying the front surface of the panels; and

a plurality of grips configured to be removably attached to the frame.

2. The climbing structure of claim 1, wherein the panels have a length and a width, wherein the length is longer than the width.

3. The climbing structure of claim 1, wherein the panels are configured with a plurality of openings which extend from the front surface of the panels through the back surface of the panels.

4. The climbing structure of claim 3, wherein the padded layer is configured with openings such that when the padded layer is overlaid over the front surface of the panels, the openings in the padded layer align with the openings in the panels.

5. The climbing structure of claim 3, wherein the plurality of openings in the panels are in a shape chosen from a clover, a circle an oval, a square, a rectangle, a triangle, and a polygon.

6. The climbing structure of claim 1, wherein the top edges of the panels are comprised of one or more hinges that securely connect the panels together.

7. The climbing structure of claim 6, wherein the one or more hinges are securely connected with a removeable pin inserted through the hinges, wherein the pin may be inserted or removed from the hinge without the use of tools.

8. The climbing structure of claim 1, wherein the grips are comprised of a grip portion and a base, wherein

the grip portion and the base are coupled to each other such that the grip portion rests on the padded layer and a portion of the base is securely fastened to the panel.

9. The climbing structure of claim 8, wherein a threaded portion of the base traverses an opening in each of the padded layers and the panels, wherein each grip is locked in place with a fastener that attaches to the threaded portion of the base on the back surface of the panel.

10. The climbing structure of claim 8, wherein the base comprises of a recessed portion, and the base traverses an opening in each of the padded layers and the panels, wherein each grip is locked in place with a clip that attaches to the recessed portion of the base on the back surface of the panel.

11. The climbing structure of claim 8, wherein the base comprises of snap hooks, and the base traverses an opening in each of the padded layers and the panels, wherein each grip is locked in place with the snap hooks on the base which rest against the back surface of the panel.

12. The climbing structure of claim 1, wherein the pair of side rails on each panel are configured such that one side rail has a single hole and the second side rail has a plurality of pass-through holes.

13. The climbing structure of claim 12, wherein the adjustable bar has a pivoting end and an adjustable end; wherein

the pivoting end is pivotably connected to single hole in the panel side rail that has the single hole, and the adjustable end is connected to one of the pass-through holes in the panel side rail that has the plurality of pass-through holes.

14. The climbing structure of claim 13, wherein the adjustable end of the adjustable bar is connected to the side rail at any one of the pass-through holes to adjust an incline of the climbing structure to a desired angle.

15. The climbing structure of claim 1, wherein the side rail is provided with a removable padding.

16. The climbing structure of claim 1, wherein the frame further comprises a handle.

17. A climbing structure, comprising:

a frame, the frame further comprising: at least two panels adjoined together, the panels having a front surface, a back surface, a top edge, a bottom edge, a left vertical side, and a right vertical side, wherein the front surface of the panels are configured with a plurality of openings which extend through the back surface; a pair of first and second side rails, wherein the first side rail is configured on the a vertical side of each of the panels and the second side rail is configured on the opposing vertical side of each of the panels, wherein the first side rail is configured with a single hole and the second side rail is configured with a plurality of pass-through holes; a pair of adjustable bars configured to be connected to the side rails of the adjoined panels and link the panels together; wherein the adjustable bar has a pivoting end and an opposing adjustable end, wherein the pivoting end is connected to the panel at the side rail with the single hole, and the adjustable end is connected to the panel at the side rail with the plurality of pass-through holes;

a padded layer that overlays the front surface of the panels, wherein the padded layer is configured with openings such that when the padded layer is overlaid over the front surface of the panels, the openings in the padded layer align with the openings in the panels; and

a plurality of grips configured to be removably attached to the frame, wherein each of the grips is comprised of a grip portion and a base, wherein the grip portion and the base are coupled to each other such that the grip portion rests on the padded layer and a portion of the base is securely fastened to the panel.

18. The climbing structure of claim 17, wherein the top edges of the panels are aligned and securely held together through one or more hinges positioned on a side of the top edge of each of the panels.

19. The climbing structure of claim 17, wherein a threaded portion of the base traverses an opening in each of the padded layers and the panels, wherein each grip is locked in place with a fastener that attaches to the threaded portion of the base on the back surface of the panel.

20. The climbing structure of claim 17, wherein the base comprises of a recessed portion, and the base traverses an opening in each of the padded layers and the panels, wherein each grip is locked in place with a clip that attaches to the recessed portion of the base on the back surface of the panel.

21. The climbing structure of claim 17, wherein the base comprises of snap hooks, and the base traverses an opening in each of the padded layers and the panels, wherein each grip is locked in place with the snap hooks on the base which rest against the back surface of the panel.

22. The climbing structure of claim 17, wherein the plurality of openings in the panels are in a shape chosen from a clover, a circle an oval, a square, a rectangle, a triangle, and a polygon.

23. The climbing structure of claim 17, wherein the adjustable end of the adjustable bar is connected to the side rail at any one of the pass-through holes to adjust the incline of the climbing structure to a desired angle.

24. The climbing structure of claim 17, wherein the frame further comprises a handle.