Trampoline Patents (Class 482/27)
  • Patent number: 7740560
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a stationary exercise apparatus for small children. The apparatus includes an activity table adapted for receiving one or more children's activity items, one or more legs, a seat supported by the legs, and a resilient support surface suspended generally horizontally from at least one of the legs. The seat has a pair of leg openings that allow the child to touch the resilient support surface with its legs, and the resilient support surface has a resiliency that allows the child to bounce vertically by pushing its legs downwardly against the resilient support surface. Furthermore, the distance between the resilient support surface and the seat can be increased or decreased to account for the height of the child placed within the apparatus by moving the resilient support surface, and a tension element of the resilient support surface can be adjusted to account for the child's strength.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Assignee: Kids II, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey S. Tadin, Stephen R. Burns, Jacob M. Sclare, James E. Cartabiano
  • Patent number: 7713174
    Abstract: This trampoline enclosure net design relates to a rebounding mat assembly and an enclosure net that surrounds the periphery of the rebounding mat assembly. The enclosure net is attached to the rebounding mat assembly by the enclosure net poles. The enclosure net pole includes: the body of the pole that is attached to the rebounding mat assembly and a connection assembly that sits at the top end of the body of the pole; a hanging hook is placed at the connection assembly; the hanging hook is connected to the enclosure net pole through an extendable piece. A connection assembly is placed at the top end of the pole; a hanging hook is placed at the connection assembly; the hanging hook is connected to the enclosure net pole through an extendable piece, allowing the enclosure net to expand and contract and buffer impact by user on the enclosure net.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Assignee: Sportspower, Ltd.
    Inventor: Li Ru Xiang
  • Patent number: 7708667
    Abstract: A trampoline has an enclosure system including a barrier of a flexible material (14) such as a net material surrounding the trampoline mat above the mat and having a lower peripheral part coupled directly or indirectly to the mat, and a plurality of resiliently flexible generally upright enclosure support members or rods (13) which are retained at or towards the lower ends of the enclosure support members and below the mat (1) by the frame (4) of the trampoline and which support the net above the mat, so that the enclosure is free to deform away from the mat when impacted by a user against an enclosure support member and/or against said barrier of flexible material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2010
    Assignee: Board & Batten International Inc.
    Inventor: Keith Vivian Alexander
  • Patent number: 7691032
    Abstract: An in-ground trampoline system configured to provide a ground level jumping surface which consists of a trampoline, a pit, and a segmented retaining wall configured to support the walls of the pit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Inventors: Tracy Burnham, K. Donald Evans, Mark Muller, Jerry Leopold, Cory E. Cook
  • Publication number: 20100081549
    Abstract: A physical training system wherein power yoga asanas are executed on the resilient mat of a mini-trampoline rebounder, thereby increasing flexibility and balance via incorporation of a challenging and unstable foundational surface, and wherein posture intensity is selectively increased by utilization of on-board resistance cords, either for holding in an isometric contraction, or by performing repetitions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2008
    Publication date: April 1, 2010
    Inventor: Jaimyn Thompson
  • Publication number: 20100075810
    Abstract: Embodiments of hollow generally T-shaped couplers suitable for coupling respective ends of two tubular members to an upright member for a trampoline support are disclosed. Neither manufacture of the coupler nor the manner of its coupling between the tubular members and the upright member requires welds. The coupler has a hollow cross piece for coupling with the respective ends of the two tubular members. It also has a hollow upright piece extending from an underside of and intersecting the cross piece that receives in female fashion a male end of the upright member. Both the underside of the cross piece and sides of the upright piece are of split form along their respective lengths. The upright piece is provided with location regions that cooperate with corresponding location regions on the male end of the upright member to locate the upright member longitudinally of the upright piece.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2007
    Publication date: March 25, 2010
    Inventor: Jonathan Michael Schaffer
  • Publication number: 20100069204
    Abstract: A soft edged trampoline includes a flexible mat supported from a base frame by a plurality of resiliently flexible rods. Each rod has an enlarged upper end. A plurality of fittings coupled to the mat about the periphery of the mat each include a socket cavity which receives the enlarged upper end of a flexible rod, so that the upper ends of the flexible rods are pivotally connected to the periphery of the mat.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2009
    Publication date: March 18, 2010
    Inventor: Keith Vivian Alexander
  • Patent number: 7678024
    Abstract: The invention comprises a trampoline including a flexible mat, a plurality of resiliently flexible rods each having a lower end retained in a frame of the trampoline and an enlarged upper end, and a plurality of fittings coupled to the mat about a periphery of the mat and including on or in an underside of each fitting a socket cavity which receives the upper end of a flexible rod so that the upper ends of the flexible rods are pivotally connected to the periphery of the mat, the fitting also including an entry into the socket cavity for the enlarged upper end of the flexible rod through an upper side of the fitting and a restricted entry towards the socket cavity for a part of the flexible rod below said enlarged upper end and through which the rod upper end cannot pass, to one side of the fitting and defined between opposed side or underside parts of the fitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2010
    Assignee: Board & Batten International Inc.
    Inventor: Keith Vivian Alexander
  • Publication number: 20100056343
    Abstract: The present invention is in the field of sports equipment, more specifically, relating to a trampoline frame connection structure. The trampoline frame has a main pipe and a support pipe. The main pipe has a straight line weld seam. The support pipe supports the main pipe. The main pipe junction with the support pipe has a concave connection. The main tube weld seam is on the bottom facing the concave portion. This practical new design features an improved welding configuration that has a low budget and high-efficiency connection. The weld seam on the bottom decreases shock to the weld seam and also prevents interference between the connecting hole on the main pipe and weld seam. Finally, this invention uses a weld seam strengthening plate device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2008
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Inventor: Hua-Lu Hsiang
  • Publication number: 20100041519
    Abstract: A wheel assembly for attachment to the leg of a trampoline has means for moving the wheel from a first raised position where the wheel is not supporting the trampoline leg above the ground, to a second position where the wheel is supporting the trampoline leg above the ground. In that way the trampoline can be rolled on wheels without having to subsequently remove the wheel assemblies for storage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Publication date: February 18, 2010
    Inventors: Peter James Law, Richard Allen Mueller
  • Publication number: 20100035730
    Abstract: The most broadly used jumping device today is a mini trampoline. This design has limitations and drawbacks: only one person may jump on it at any given time, the jumping techniques are limited to high jumps in the center of the jumping bed, and there is a risk of injury caused by the hard metal frame. Attempts of creating jumping devices without these disadvantages on the basis of an inflatable hose have failed due to their low positional stability—they shift and lift off the ground. The invention therefore provides the following solutions to the problem. In order to stabilize the jumping device comprising an enclosed tube (1), the device is weighted down by partially filling it with liquid (3) or bulk material. In order to prevent the filling from flowing off on an inclined subsurface, it is filled into a separate container that is located outside or inside of the air tube. In order to stabilize the device without any filling, the hose is attached to the ground by means of retaining fixtures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2006
    Publication date: February 11, 2010
    Inventor: Waldemar Dukart
  • Patent number: 7658697
    Abstract: The present invention is in the field of sports equipment, more specifically, relating to a trampoline frame connection structure. The trampoline frame has a main pipe and a support pipe. The main pipe has a straight line weld seam. The support pipe supports the main pipe. The main pipe junction with the support pipe has a concave connection. The main tube weld seam is on the bottom facing the concave portion. This practical new design features an improved welding configuration that has a low budget and high-efficiency connection. The weld seam on the bottom decreases shock to the weld seam and also prevents interference between the connecting hole on the main pipe and weld seam. Finally, this invention uses a weld seam strengthening plate device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2010
    Inventor: Hua-Lu Hsiang
  • Publication number: 20100022355
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention are directed to trampolines and component parts including a frame assembly to fold a fixed or foldable trampoline from an expanded state to a collapsed state or vice-versa. In one embodiment, a frame assembly includes a base frame member, two peripheral frame members and two connecting members connecting the two peripheral frame members to the base frame member. The two peripheral frame members are also connected to a center joint which may slide up and down a center frame post via a folding mechanism which may include a crank shaft and an elongated threaded member. In some embodiments, the frame assembly may include hydraulics and the two peripheral frame members may be off-set relative to one another. Embodiments of component parts for the trampoline may also include a plurality of net frame members, a foldable ladder, a wheeled support and a frame pad.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2009
    Publication date: January 28, 2010
    Inventor: Brian Goldwitz
  • Publication number: 20100009812
    Abstract: A trampoline includes a frame and a jumping bed which preferably has hook elements on its underside. The jumping bed is connected to the frame via a plurality of annular strap sections, which each extend at least partially around the frame and are inserted into the hook elements. The hook elements have a first receiving section and a second receiving section. These are arranged separated from one another in such a way that the two loop ends of the strap section, which are produced by the looping of the strap section around the frame and are inserted into the hook element, do not, or substantially do not, come in contact with one another. This structure considerably extends the life in comparison with conventional trampolines.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 16, 2007
    Publication date: January 14, 2010
    Inventor: Heinz Konrad Pieper Genannt Schmauck
  • Patent number: 7628731
    Abstract: A spring arrangement for a trampoline includes a rebounding surface, a frame structure having a top portion and a bottom portion, and a plurality of spring members that are mechanically coupled between the rebounding surface and the frame structure. A first group of spring members are mechanically coupled to the top portion of the frame structure and a second group of spring members are mechanically coupled to the bottom portion of the frame structure. In one illustrative embodiment, each spring member of the second group of spring members has a frame hook member that is mechanically coupled to the bottom portion of the frame structure and a bed hook member that includes an end portion that is configured to be within a projection of a body of the spring member and is coupled to the rebounding surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2009
    Assignee: CA06, LLC
    Inventors: Craig E. McGee, Jeffry L. VanElverdinghe, Craig Adams
  • Publication number: 20090291806
    Abstract: A trampoline provides higher performance and greater shock absorption capability by utilizing pairs of springs to connect the rebounding mat to the supporting frame. The springs in each pair are coupled to a common junction on the periphery of the rebounding mat, being disposed vertically with respect to each other. The upper spring in each pair is directly connected to the rebounding mat and the trampoline frame to initially to tension the mat in the equilibrium position. The lower spring in each pair is coupled to the frame and then to rebounding mat via a linkage arm such that it comes substantially under tension only as the corresponding upper spring is stretched. Depending on the level of impact force on the trampoline mat both springs extend, such that their combined stored energy propels the user upward on the return bounce. However, as each spring pair engages in stages the shock of the users initially landing is gradually absorbed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2009
    Publication date: November 26, 2009
    Inventors: Mark W. Publicover, Jon P. Hylbert
  • Publication number: 20090280961
    Abstract: A trampoline assembly (10) includes a bed (12), a base frame (14), a plurality of first resilient members (16) that connect the bed (12) to the base frame (14), and a support assembly (22). The support assembly (22) includes (i) a plurality of support arches (26) connected to the base frame (14) and cantilevering upward away from the base frame (14); (ii) a first support segment (28) that is connected to the base frame (14) and one of the support arches (26); (iii) a second support segment (30) that is connected to the base frame (14) and one of the support arches (26); (iv) a support bar (32); and (v) a plurality of support resilient members (34) that connect the support bar (32) to at least one of the plurality of support arches (26). In some embodiments, the plurality of support arches (26) extend around only a portion of the base frame (14). Further, each support arch (26) can be connected to at least one of the other support arches (26).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2008
    Publication date: November 12, 2009
    Inventor: Masato Ikegami
  • Patent number: 7611443
    Abstract: A fence surrounds a trampoline and extends above the rebounding surface, reducing the risk of injury. Shock absorption is aided by a support system of independent poles. Variable placement net fasteners also are detailed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Assignee: JumpSport, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark W. Publicover
  • Publication number: 20090258759
    Abstract: A trampoline swing has a swing assembly, a trampoline assembly and a trampoline to swing connection member connecting the horizontally oriented trampoline frame to a trampoline connection end of the swing assembly. The trampoline swing has a top bar having a pair of apexes, namely a left apex and a right apex. The left apex is at a left side of the swing assembly and the right apex is at the right side of the swing assembly. There are four main body leg supports, namely a front left leg support, a front right leg support, a rear left leg support, and a rear right leg support. The left apex receives the front left leg support and the rear left leg support. The right apex receives the front right leg support and the rear right leg support. A plurality of swing connectors are mounted on the top bar.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2008
    Publication date: October 15, 2009
    Inventor: Samuel Chen
  • Patent number: 7568997
    Abstract: A trampoline provides higher performance and greater shock absorption capability by utilizing pairs of springs to connect the rebounding mat to the supporting frame. The springs in each pair are coupled to a common junction on the periphery of the rebounding mat, being disposed vertically with respect to each other. The upper spring in each pair is directly connected to the rebounding mat and the trampoline frame to initially to tension the mat in the equilibrium position. The lower spring in each pair is coupled to the frame and then to rebounding mat via a linkage arm such that it comes substantially under tension only as the corresponding upper spring is stretched. Depending on the level of impact force on the trampoline mat both springs extend, such that their combined stored energy propels the user upward on the return bounce. However, as each spring pair engages in stages the shock of the users initially landing is gradually absorbed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2009
    Inventors: Mark W. Publicover, Jon P. Hylbert
  • Publication number: 20090181827
    Abstract: The trampoline with inflated base includes a generally toroidal shaped inflatable tube having an open center area. A mesh rebound member extends over the open center area and is secured around its entire periphery to the tube on the upper surface of the tube member. The tube includes a singular air duct or a plurality of air ducts extending radially which allow communication of air between the space interior to the tube and the space exterior to the tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 15, 2009
    Publication date: July 16, 2009
    Applicant: JUMPSPORT, INC.
    Inventors: Jon Patton Hylbert, Donald Wayne Strasser
  • Publication number: 20090156366
    Abstract: A fence surrounds a trampoline and extends above the rebounding surface, reducing the risk of injury. Shock absorption is aided by a support system of independent poles. Variable placement net fasteners also are detailed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2009
    Publication date: June 18, 2009
    Inventor: Mark W. Publicover
  • Publication number: 20090062077
    Abstract: A recreational structure comprises a rebounding-surface frame forming a closed shape, and at least one panel disposed between the rebounding-surface frame and a support surface. The at least one comprises a horizontal edge, and at least a portion of the top horizontal edge of at the least one panel is coupled to at least a portion of the rebounding-surface frame. In one exemplary embodiment, at least a first and a second panel each comprise first and second vertical edges and a horizontal edge. The first vertical edge of the first panel is coupled to a second vertical edge of the second panel. At least a portion of the top horizontal edge of at least one of the first and second panels is coupled to at least a portion of the rebounding-surface frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2008
    Publication date: March 5, 2009
    Inventor: Jeffry L. VanElverdinghe
  • Publication number: 20090054211
    Abstract: The trampoline contains a flexible jumping bed enclosed by a closed frame supported by a number of legs on the ground. A cushion element such as a spring, a rubber block, or a hydraulic or air buffering device is provided at each connection between the frame and the legs. The cushion element absorbs part of the downward force exerted on the frame and the legs so that an extended operation life of the trampoline is achieved.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2007
    Publication date: February 26, 2009
    Inventor: HSIN-YUAN CHIU
  • Patent number: 7494444
    Abstract: A recreational structure, such as a trampoline frame, can be quickly and reliably assembled using a sleeve-joint coupling having a “T” configuration. A first arm member and an aperture that is formed in the sleeve-joint coupling are disposed in an opposite relationship. A second arm member and a third arm member are disposed in an opposite relationship with each other. The first arm member receives one end of a vertical frame member of the recreational structure, while the aperture receives one end of a vertical pole member of, for example, a safety enclosure. The second and third arm members each receive one end of a horizontal frame member of the recreational structure. A tension member applies a force between a vertical frame member and a corresponding vertical pole member that compresses the vertical frame member toward the corresponding vertical pole member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2009
    Assignee: CA06, LLC
    Inventor: Craig Adams
  • Patent number: 7494445
    Abstract: An adjustable trampoline pad system is for a trampoline. The adjustable trampoline pad system has a main trampoline pad section having a plastic foam core enveloped inside an exterior cover. The main trampoline pad section has an arc shape roughly following the circumference of a trampoline frame. A main trampoline pad outside flap connects to the main trampoline pad section at an external periphery of the main trampoline pad section. A first extension pad section removably connects to the main trampoline pad section. The first extension pad section has an arc shape roughly following the curvature of the main trampoline pad section. A first extension pad outside flap connects to the first extension pad section at an external periphery of the first extension pad section. A second extension pad section is removably connected to the main trampoline pad section and the movably connected to the first extension pad section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2009
    Inventor: Samuel Chen
  • Patent number: 7481740
    Abstract: Trampoline accessories are described herein that may be affixed to a trampoline system to facilitate the playing of a game. These trampoline accessories may include a soccer net, a rebounding surface that will bounce a ball back to the thrower, and a catch panel that will gather the ball when the ball is thrown against the panel. These accessories may be added to either the trampoline frame of the trampoline enclosure. Deflective netting may be provided adjacent the accessories to prevent the ball and users from entering the space below the trampoline rebounding mat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2009
    Assignee: Skywalker Holdings, LLC
    Inventor: Michael J. Colling
  • Publication number: 20090023558
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2008
    Publication date: January 22, 2009
    Inventor: Jeffry L. VanElverdinghe
  • Publication number: 20090005221
    Abstract: The invention comprises a trampoline including a flexible mat, a plurality of resiliently flexible rods each having a lower end retained in a frame of the trampoline and an enlarged upper end, and a plurality of fittings coupled to the mat about a periphery of the mat and including on or in an underside of each fitting a socket cavity which receives the upper end of a flexible rod so that the upper ends of the flexible rods are pivotally connected to the periphery of the mat, the fitting also including an entry into the socket cavity for the enlarged upper end of the flexible rod through an upper side of the fitting and a restricted entry towards the socket cavity for a part of the flexible rod below said enlarged upper end and through which the rod upper end cannot pass, to one side of the fitting and defined between opposed side or underside parts of the fitting.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2008
    Publication date: January 1, 2009
    Inventor: Keith Vivian Alexander
  • Patent number: 7468020
    Abstract: A foldable trampoline includes a bed unit, and a foldable frame unit operable to move between unfolded and folded states, and including first and second frame sections that cooperate to define a bedding space, that are coupled movably to each other and to the bed unit, and that include first and second end parts, respectively. The first end part has a coupling edge formed with a coupling notch, and a guiding edge extending from the coupling edge and formed with a securing notch. The second end part is provided with a coupling shaft to be received movably in the coupling notch, and a securing shaft to be received in the securing notch. The coupling and securing shafts cooperate with the coupling and securing notches to secure the foldable frame unit in the unfolded state, where the bed unit is stretched tensely over the bedding space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2008
    Inventor: Fen-Ying Lai
  • Publication number: 20080269019
    Abstract: A trampoline and enclosure with an improved ingress and egress is provided. The enclosure is made from a flexible material with an arched entry way. The entry way is arched, or some other shape (symmetrical or asymmetrical), so that when it is in the open position, the material closing the arch falls out of the way facilitating ingress and egress to the jumping chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2007
    Publication date: October 30, 2008
    Applicant: Bravo Sports
    Inventor: Jack B. Lovley, II
  • Patent number: 7431679
    Abstract: An apparatus for home use that combines the functions of both a bed and a trampoline. The apparatus includes a base that has a metal frame that is supported by a quartet of braced legs. In addition, a surface is attached to the base through use of a number of springs, with this surface being a flexible surface. A mattress is placed on top of the surface and used for sleeping purposes. The apparatus can be used as a trampoline by removal of the mattress, allowing an individual to jump up or otherwise move about the flexible surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2008
    Inventor: Rose M Tageant
  • Patent number: 7422547
    Abstract: A novel trampoline at least includes: a trampoline frame; a trampoline mat operatively surrounded by the trampoline frame; and a plurality of trampoline spring members operatively coupled between the trampoline frame and the trampoline mat. Each trampoline spring member at least includes: a first spring coupler located at a first end of the spring member; a second spring coupler located at a second end of the spring member; a first spring member section coupled to the first spring coupler; a second spring member section coupled to the second spring coupler; at least a third spring member section coupled between the first spring member section and the second spring member section, the third spring member section having a spring constant greater than the spring constants of the first and second spring member sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2008
    Inventor: David Wayne Hall
  • Publication number: 20080171638
    Abstract: Disclosed is an improved spring structure used in trampoline for the purpose of sports or exercise. The spring includes coiled plastic middle part and hooks on both ends, at least one of which extends inward with a curve. This makes the exposed part of the hook smooth, thus improve the safety during using the spring. In addition, the end extends outward after extending inward, making the whole structure “R” shaped, which forms an assemble guiding part to provide easy connection between the spring and the trampoline and meanwhile avoids disconnection during movement with a smaller opening. This special structure will improve the safety and stability of trampoline, thus relieving consumers' concern about safety when using the trampoline.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2007
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Inventor: Samuel Chen
  • Patent number: 7396318
    Abstract: A spring arrangement for a trampoline includes a rebounding surface, a frame structure having a top portion and a bottom portion, and a plurality of spring members that are mechanically coupled between the rebounding surface and the frame structure. A first group of spring members are mechanically coupled to the top portion of the frame structure and a second group of spring members are mechanically coupled to the bottom portion of the frame structure. In one exemplary embodiment, the spring members of the first group and the second group are alternately arranged along the frame structure. In another exemplary embodiment, the frame structure is formed by a plurality of frame members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2008
    Assignee: CA06, LLC
    Inventors: Jeffry L. VanElverdinghe, Craig Adams
  • Publication number: 20080132384
    Abstract: A rebounder comprising an encompassing frame has a platform suspended on the frame. The platform has a substantially rigid base and a pad of resilient material is secured on the base. A vertical handhold frame may have a directly attached handhold or a rotating handhold, which may be attached by elastic connections.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2008
    Publication date: June 5, 2008
    Inventor: Mark W. Publicover
  • Patent number: 7361104
    Abstract: A ball game system for training and/or play comprising one or more playing areas suitably large to accommodate running and jumping players, each playing area including adjacent surface areas forming a court and having distinctly different properties, such as a first surface suitable for bouncing a ball and a second surface comprised of a deformable elastic material. The system includes an automatic ball feeder and sensors for monitoring the positions and trajectories of one or more players and/or balls on the court. Options include visual displays and/or audio outputs reflective of player performance, and payment-driven operation of the system components, including a means for adjusting the degree of rebound provided by the deformable elastic surface(s).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2008
    Inventor: Avery Levy
  • Publication number: 20080090704
    Abstract: A foldable trampoline frame assembly comprises spaced apart frame segments, a travel limiting member and an engagement member. The spaced apart frame segments are pivotably attached to each other for enabling a first one of the frame segments to be pivoted with respect to a second one of the frame segments between a use configuration and a folded configuration. The travel limiting member is positionable in a travel limiting position when engaged with a mating portion of the first frame segment and is movable to a non-limiting position. The engagement member is fixedly attached to the second frame segment. The engagement member engages the travel limiting member when the travel limiting member is in the travel limiting position during pivoting of the frame segments from the use configuration toward the folded configuration for limiting the frame segments to be pivoted to a partially folded configuration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2006
    Publication date: April 17, 2008
    Inventors: Alain Romuald Denis, Xiongyi Xu
  • Patent number: 7331903
    Abstract: A trampoline (10) includes a base frame (14) having a substantially non-rectangular perimeter region (38), a bed suspension assembly (16) and a bed (12). The bed (12) is coupled to the base frame (14) with the bed suspension assembly (16). Further, the bed (12) includes a first pair of substantially parallel sides (34A, 34B). For example, the bed (12) can be rectangular in shape, or can include a second pair of arc-shaped sides (36A, 36B). The perimeter region (38) can be substantially oval-shaped or circular-shaped. The trampoline (10) can also include one or more side sections (18, 22) and one or more side suspensions (20, 24) that couple the side sections (18, 22) to the base frame (14). In one embodiment, the side sections (18, 22) each include an inner side (54, 58) that is substantially linear and an outer side (56, 60) that is substantially arc-shaped.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2008
    Assignee: FUNTEK USA, Inc.
    Inventors: George Nissen, Masato Ikegami
  • Patent number: 7331904
    Abstract: A novel trampoline at least includes: a trampoline frame; a trampoline mat operatively surrounded by the trampoline frame; and a plurality of trampoline spring members operatively coupled between the trampoline frame and the trampoline mat. Each trampoline spring member at least includes: a first spring coupler located at a first end of the spring member; a second spring coupler located at a second end of the spring member; a first spring member section coupled to the first spring coupler; a second spring member section coupled to the second spring coupler; at least a third spring member section coupled between the first spring member section and the second spring member section, the third spring member section having a spring constant greater than the spring constants of the first and second spring member sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2008
    Inventor: David Wayne Hall
  • Publication number: 20080009394
    Abstract: A frame structure for a safety enclosure for a recreational structure includes at least one substantially rigid horizontal support member, at least one vertical pole member having a top end, a substantially vertical portion and portion that is not substantially vertical, and at least one end cap member. The end cap member mates with the top end of the vertical pole member and releasably receiving a horizontal support member. In one exemplary embodiment, the vertical pole member can be part of a safety enclosure. In another exemplary embodiment, at least one horizontal support member is flexibly rigid. One exemplary embodiment provides a netting-type material that is attached to one of a horizontal support member and an end cap member, such that the netting-type material forms a substantially cylindrical shaped safety enclosure space.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2006
    Publication date: January 10, 2008
    Inventors: Jeffry L. VanElverdinghe, Craig Adams
  • Patent number: 7297089
    Abstract: A trampoline having a frame, a bounce member and a bounce sensor, sensing bounces activates lights and provide sounds for entertainment and training purposes. A control box interprets a variety of inputs from the bounce sensors and outputs a variety of lights and sounds. A light is activated underneath the bounce member when the bounce sensor senses a bounce. One are more sets of lights can be used. The best mode is a spring post configuration sensor. The lights can be encapsulated within a plastic lamination having an upper clear surface and a lower reflective surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2007
    Inventor: Samuel Chen
  • Patent number: 7220218
    Abstract: A modified trampoline holder structure comprises a plurality of transverse tubes, six connection sleeves, and three supporting tubes. The transverse tubes are connected together into a ring shape. Each connection sleeve firmly clamps the joint of two adjacent transverse tubes. Each connection sleeve is inserted into an end opening of one supporting tube. Locking bumps are formed at two sides of the inner edge of each tube clamping portion. Corresponding locking grooves are formed at two sides of the joint of two adjacent transverse tubes. When the tube clamping portion firmly clamps the joint of two adjacent transverse tubes, the locking bump and the locking groove will be locked together. Each insertion tube portion is composed of at least two arc-shaped sheets. Detents that can be locked together are formed on the two arc-shaped sheets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2007
    Inventor: Arthur Chu
  • Patent number: 7182704
    Abstract: A ball game system for training and/or play comprising a one or more playing areas suitably large to accommodate running and jumping players, each playing area including adjacent surface areas forming a court and having distinctly different properties, such as a first surface suitable for bouncing a ball and a second surface comprised of a deformable elastic material. The system includes an automatic ball feeder and sensors for monitoring the positions and trajectories of one or more players and/or balls on the court. Options include visual displays and/or audio outputs reflective of player performance, and payment-driven operation of the system components, including a means for adjusting the degree of rebound provided by the deformable elastic surface(s).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2007
    Inventor: Avery Levy
  • Patent number: 7182713
    Abstract: A quick-coupling post for trampoline safety fence is formed from a plurality of sequentially connectable hollow sections and an elastic connecting element mounted in each section. Each of the hollow sections has an upper portion adapted to fitly extend into a lower portion of another section to align two through holes separately provided at the upper and the lower portion of the two hollow sections, respectively. The elastic connecting element is in the form of a letter V to include two normally outward stretched arms that naturally elastically press against two opposite inner surfaces of the hollow section. One of the two arms is provided at a free end with a short shaft tube that elastically extends through the two aligned through holes on two coupled hollow sections to hold the two coupled sections in place relative to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2007
    Assignee: Shen-Tai Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Teng Yi Wang, Chang I Wu
  • Patent number: 7150699
    Abstract: A water trampoline includes a tumbling unit, a plurality of floating members, and a rope assembly. The tumbling unit includes a bed frame, a tumbling mat, and a plurality of elastic members connecting the tumbling mat to the bed frame. The floating members are connected to and are mounted independently around the bed frame. The rope assembly interconnects the floating members. A ladder is attached to one of the floating members. An anchor unit is connected to another one of the floating members and is spaced apart from the ladder at an angular distance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2006
    Inventor: Yen-Shuo Yang
  • Patent number: 7108608
    Abstract: An inflatable bouncer includes an inflatable bottom section, an inflatable inner column coupled to a center of the bottom section, and a plurality of inflatable columns around a periphery of the bottom section. An uninflated roof extends between the inner column and the outer columns.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2006
    Assignee: Cutting Edge Creations
    Inventors: Robert Field, Brian Field
  • Patent number: 7094181
    Abstract: A portable trampoline exercise system, including a foldable trampoline with long-lasting rigidity in the frame and a specifically adapted carrying case for transporting the folded trampoline. The trampoline is made foldable by using hinges to connect sections of the frame of the trampoline. The hinges are configured to provide lateral flexibility in the frame, thereby reducing the damage caused by stresses applied to the hinges (and therefore increasing the life of the hinges) when the trampoline is folded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2006
    Inventor: David Hall
  • Patent number: 7060001
    Abstract: A trampoline system has a rebounding bed and a resilient member located below the bed at such a position that the bed depresses the resilient member when the bed is sufficiently depressed by a person jumping on the bed. The presence of the resilient member makes it easy tune the system to adjust the performance of the trampoline and to minimize impacts on a jumper and thereby reduce the likelihood of bed-impact injuries.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2006
    Inventor: Mark W. Publicover
  • Patent number: 7018322
    Abstract: A quarter-foldable rebounder includes a frame of circular configuration, a circular mat, springs and legs. The frame is formed by four one-piece molded quarter-frame arcuate segments having integral pairs of half-fold and quarter-fold hinges and a rod embedded in each of the quarter-frame segments which anchors outer hooked ends of the mat springs extending into recesses and passages in the quarter-frame segments. The rebounder also includes connectors anchoring inner hooked ends of the mat springs to the outer periphery of the mat. Each of the legs is mounted at one end to one of a pair of spaced wells formed in the underside of the quarter-frame segments for undergoing movement between locked and unlocked and erect and folded positions and is received at the other end in the other of the pair of wells when the leg is at the folded position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2006
    Assignee: American Institute of Reboundology, Inc.
    Inventor: Albert E. Carter