Commercial Playground Equipment Connectors

Abstract

An embodiment of a connector 304 for commercial playground equipment is disclosed. In one embodiment, a playground component is provided that includes a connector 304 pre-assembled to a rope 302. The connector 304 includes a connector nut 310, an optional washer 308, and a connector base 306 that are held from sliding off the end of the rope 302 by a stopper 312. In one embodiment, the stopper 312 is a ferrule 312 attached to the end of the rope. Another component 402 that is also part of the playground component has a specially shaped opening 404 formed therein. The specially shaped opening (404) is formed such that when the connector base (306) is rotated in a first orientation, at least a portion of the connector base (306) can be inserted through the opening (404), but when the connector base (306) is inserted into another component (402) and then rotated in a second orientation, the connector base (306) cannot be pulled back through the specially shaped opening (404).

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] background The present invention relates generally to the field of commercial playground equipment, and more particularly to connectors used in the construction of commercial playground equipment.

[0002] In the construction of commercial playground equipment, it is often necessary to attach ropes to other components, such as, but not limited to, tubing. Traditional rope attachment scheme designs typically use loose hardware in one form or another. Loose hardware can be cumbersome because it is prone to being lost, misplaced, or accidentally left behind when shipping commercial playground equipment. Traditional design schemes also often suffer from vulnerability to corrosion and may require welding and post-weld cleanup.

[0003] Another drawback of many conventional rope attachment schemes is that the attachment point effectively limits the range of motion of the rope relative to other components. For example, a bolt or similar mechanism is often used to secure a connector placed on the end of the rope to a tab welded to the other component. This approach often only supports up-and-down movement of the rope relative to the other component. More sophisticated connectors, such as those with integrated swivels, can be used at the end of the rope. However, these connectors often only add some additional movement, such as limited side-to-side movement, to compensate for the already limited up-and-down movement. In some cases, additional hardware, such as spacers, is required.

[0004] In view of at least the above challenges, there is a need for a rope connection scheme that is easy to install and adjust, is corrosion resistant, requires minimal hardware, and / or allows for a wide range of rope movement.

[0005] overview Embodiments of a connector for commercial playground equipment are disclosed. In one embodiment, a playground component is provided that includes a pre-loaded connector on a rope. The connector includes a connector nut, an optional washer, and a connector base that is held from sliding off the end of the rope by a stopper. In one embodiment, the stopper is a ferrule attached to the end of the rope. A specially shaped opening is formed in another component that is also part of the playground equipment. The specially shaped opening is shaped so that at least a portion of the connector base can be inserted through the opening when the connector base is rotated in a first orientation, but cannot be pulled back through the specially shaped opening when the connector base is rotated in a second orientation after being inserted into the other component. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0006] [Figure 1] 1A-1D are schematic diagrams of three different examples of existing connectivity approaches. [Figure 2] 1 is a flowchart illustrating a method for connecting a rope to a tube. [Figure 3] 1 is a schematic profile view of a rope with a pre-installed connector. [Figure 4] 1 is a schematic diagram of a tube having a specially shaped opening formed therein. [Figure 5] 1 is a schematic diagram of a connector base portion of a pre-assembled connector that is inserted into a specially shaped opening formed in a tube. FIG. [Figure 6] 10 is a schematic diagram of a connector base whose orientation is changed after insertion into a tube. FIG. [Figure 7] 10 is a schematic diagram of an optional washer that slides into place. [Figure 8] 1 is a schematic diagram of several optional refinements. [Figure 9] 10 is a schematic view of the connector nut after being fixed to the connector base. FIG. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of a spanner wrench engaging one or more clamping openings. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0007] Detailed Description 1 is a schematic diagram showing three different examples of existing approaches for connecting ropes to other components in commercial playground construction. In the first example approach, a tab 104 is welded to another component 102. A connector 106 is attached to the end of a rope 108 (e.g., by swaging it on). The connector 106 is secured to the tab 104 (i.e., bolted through openings formed in the tab 104 and the connector 106) so that the rope 108 can essentially only move up and down relative to the component 102.

[0008] In a second embodiment, tab 110 is welded to the other component 102. Connector 112 is attached (e.g., by swaging on) to the end of a rope (the rope is omitted from FIG. 1). Connector 112 is fastened to tab 110 (i.e., bolted through openings in tab 110 and fastener 112) so that the rope can essentially move up and down and / or side to side relative to component 102. Connector 112 differs from connector 106 in that it also includes a swivel, which adds the possibility of side to side movement.

[0009] In the third embodiment approach, tab 114 is welded to the other component 102. Connector 116 is attached (e.g., by swaging on) to the end of a rope (this rope is omitted from FIG. 1). The connector is secured to tab 114 using bolt link 118, which is ultimately bolted to both connector 116 and tab 114. The end result is that the rope can generally move up and down and side to side.

[0010] The exemplary approach for attaching a rope to component 102 shown in FIG. 1 results in substantially limited rope movement relative to component 102. All three approaches also require welding, and typically post-weld cleanup. Even when welding is avoided, for example, by providing a different type of connection point, limited range of movement is still a typical problem. Furthermore, all exemplary approaches shown in FIG. 1 require cumbersome, loose hardware, such as bolts, spacers, and bushings. Additionally, the exemplary approaches shown are vulnerable to corrosion and rapid wear / damage.

[0011] FIG. 2 is a flowchart illustrating an alternative method 200 for connecting a rope to another component. According to block 202, the method begins by providing a rope with a pre-assembled connector. Consistent with this step, FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a rope 302 with a pre-assembled connector 304. The connector 304 includes a connector base 306, an optional washer 308, and a connector nut 310. All three components 306, 308, and 310 are illustratively slidably received on the rope 302. The components of the connector 304 are prevented from sliding off the end of the rope 302 by a stopper 312, illustratively, but not necessarily, a ferrule. In one embodiment, some or all of the connector base 306, optional washer 308, and connector nut 310 are die-cast components.

[0012] Next, according to block 204, another component (e.g., not necessarily a square or circular tube) is provided in the specially shaped opening. Consistent with this step, FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of a component 402 having a specially shaped opening 404 formed therein. In one embodiment, the opening 404 is formed by laser cutting. In one embodiment, the overall shape and size of the opening 404 is such that the connector base 306 shown in FIG. 3 can be inserted into the component 402 through the opening 404 when oriented horizontally. However, once the connector base 306 is inserted through the opening 404, it is rotated, e.g., 90 degrees, to a vertical orientation. In the vertical orientation, it cannot be removed from the opening 404, and it cannot be inserted through the opening 404 when oriented vertically.

[0013] Thus, consistent with block 206, connector base 306 is inserted through a specially shaped opening 404 (again, by way of example, but not necessarily, a square or circular tube) in component 402. Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of connector base 306 being inserted. Of course, when this insertion occurs, connector base 306 is oriented in a position that allows such insertion.

[0014] Next, consistent with block 208, the connector base 306 is rotated to an orientation that makes it essentially impossible to withdraw the connector base through the specially shaped opening 404 (again, by way of example, not necessarily a square or circular tube) of the component 402. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of the connector base 306 after insertion and reorientation. In one embodiment, the connector base 308 is formed with one or more raised edges 602 (labeled in FIGS. 5 and 6 ) that function as indicators of the orientation of the connector base 306 after rotation. Also by way of example, the raised edges are formed so that the inserted and reoriented connector base 306 resists movement of the connector base 306 within the specially shaped opening 404. As also shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 , a threaded portion 604 is left protruding from the specially shaped opening 404 after insertion and reorientation of the connector base 306. In this regard, instead of being fully inserted into the specially shaped opening 404, the connector base 306 is actually only partially inserted.

[0015] As an optional next step, optional washer 308 is slid over threads 604 and positioned flush with component 402. Figure 7 shows a schematic of optional washer 308 being slid into place. Thus, in one embodiment, optional washer 308 hides the specially shaped opening 404 in component 402.

[0016] Washer 308 is merely one example of an optional component that can be included or excluded from the described configuration. FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of several optional refinements. Another example of an optional component that can also or alternatively be included is a locking mechanism. Locking mechanism 802 has an outer flange configured to operate in a manner similar to optional washer 308. However, locking mechanism 802 also includes one or more locking extensions 804. Locking extensions 804 are illustratively configured to extend into specially shaped opening 404 and over a portion of connector base 306. In this manner, the locking mechanism further securely secures connector base 306 within the tube. Essentially, locking mechanism 802 provides additional mechanical assurance that the connector base will not slide back out of specially shaped opening 404. Locking extensions 804 essentially prevent locking mechanism 802 from rotating within specially shaped opening 404, which in turn prevents connector base 306 from rotating. In this way, reorienting the connector base 306 after insertion may even be an optional step in the process, although it may still be preferable to orient the connector base in a way that inhibits withdrawal from the specially shaped opening 404. In one embodiment, the locking mechanism 802 is a replacement for the optional washer 308.

[0017] Another optional improvement is a spacer 806. The spacer 806 is shown added between the stopper (e.g., ferrule) 312 and the connector base 306. In one embodiment, the spacer 806, which can be multiple spacers, is configured to further compress the stopper 312 (and thus the end of the rope 302) into the component to which it is attached. This ultimately increases the amount of tension on the rope 302. In one embodiment, the spacer 806 can be added during initial installation, but can just as easily be added after initial installation, such as after the rope 302 has been stretched after extensive use. Those skilled in the art will also understand that the spacer 806 need not simply be a static space filler. The spacer 806 could just as easily be a spring configured to provide variable tension to the rope 302. Any type of spacer is possible. The general idea is to increase the amount of tension (variable or static) by shortening the amount of rope that extends out through the connector base 306.

[0018] The final step according to block 212 of Figure 2 is to secure the connector nut 310 to the threaded portion 604 of the connector base 306. Figure 9 is a schematic diagram of the connector nut after it has been secured to the connector base. In one embodiment, this means that the connector nut includes threads designed to engage with the threaded portion 604. Of course, the scope of the present invention is not limited to threaded connections. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, other connection approaches can be substituted without departing from the scope.

[0019] Also evident in Figure 9 is the presence of optional washer 308. Of course, this could alternatively be part of locking mechanism 802. Another subtle feature shown in Figure 9 is one or more clamping openings 902. These openings are incorporated into connector nut 301, by way of example, to facilitate engagement with a wrench 1002 (e.g., a spanner wrench) or to achieve more security than hand-tightening. Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of a spanner wrench engaged with one or more clamping openings 902.

[0020] Certain embodiments disclosed herein support a rope connection scheme that is easy to install and adjust, requires minimal hardware, and allows for a wide range of motion. The connection scheme can be used to connect ropes to tubing, as shown in some of the drawings, but by way of example only. The same or similar scheme can be used to connect ropes to almost anything. For example, the scheme can also be used to connect to a deck surface, eliminating the need for component containment, such as within a tube. Those skilled in the art will appreciate the broad applicability of the described attachment scheme embodiments, as well as their obvious expandability.

[0021] In one scenario, a connector, including a die-cast connector base, washer, and connector nut, is pre-assembled onto the rope at the time of shipment (retained by a ferrule or other stopper at the end of the rope). The corresponding component includes a specially shaped laser-cut opening that allows the connector base to be inserted through the opening in one direction and prevents it from being pulled out when rotated to the other orientation. The connector nut engages with threads on the connector base that protrude through the specially shaped opening. This approach requires no welding, and the resulting connection has a clean look and feel.

[0022] Certain embodiments disclosed herein allow for wide, nearly 360-degree, rope rotation after connection. Certain embodiments allow for easy rope tension setting and adjustment through the addition of static and / or variable spacers. Certain embodiments are more cost-effective than traditional hardware-based connection systems, which are typically mostly made of metal. Eliminating connection tabs eliminates the risk of components being shipped without tabs and the risk of missing connection hardware. Certain embodiments described herein also reduce or eliminate the risk of corrosion.

[0023] While the above-described features of certain embodiments of the present invention provide clear advantages over prior art rope connectors, it should be noted that there may be other approaches to solving the problems associated with conventional rope connectors, but these alternative approaches may not offer the same simplicity, ease of installation and adjustment, range of motion, and cost-effectiveness as certain embodiments of the present invention.

[0024] The specific embodiments disclosed herein are applicable to essentially any type of playground component and rope. The exact characteristics of the playground component or rope often vary from one installation to the next. The shape of the playground component to which the attachment is made, whether square, round, tubular, non-tubular, deck surface, or otherwise, is not critical to the scope of the present invention. Furthermore, depending on the desired properties and performance of a given playground component, the playground component can be made of metal, plastic, composite, or otherwise, and the rope can be made of natural or synthetic fibers, metal, composite, or otherwise. These details are not critical to the scope of the present invention.

[0025] Additionally, certain embodiments described herein may be used in a variety of playground components, including, but not limited to, swings, climbing structures, and rope bridges. These are merely examples. These embodiments provide a versatile and adaptable solution for connecting ropes in a variety of playground applications. And indeed, the embodiments may be readily adapted to connect items other than ropes to items other than tubes as well, without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A playground component, comprising: a rope having a connector pre-assembled thereon, said connector including a connector base and a connector nut; a component having a specially shaped opening formed therein; Including, the specially shaped opening is configured such that at least a portion of the connector base is insertable through the specially shaped opening when the connector base is rotated to a first orientation; and the specially shaped opening is configured such that after at least a portion of the connector base is inserted into the component through the specially shaped opening, when at least a portion of the connector base is rotated to a second orientation, at least a portion of the connector base is not retracted through the specially shaped opening. Playground component.

2. 10. The playground component of claim 1, further comprising a stopper connected to the end of the rope to prevent the connector base and the connector nut from sliding off the end of the rope.

3. The playground component of claim 1 , further comprising a washer disposed on the rope between the connector base and the connector nut.

4. 4. The playground component of claim 3, wherein the connector base, the connector nut, and the washer are all slidably secured to the rope, and a stopper prevents the connector base, the connector nut, and the washer from sliding off the end of the rope.

5. The playground component of claim 1 , wherein the connector base and the connector nut are die-cast components.

6. 2. The playground component of claim 1, wherein the connector nut is configured to be attached to the connector base such that a portion of the component defining the specially shaped opening is sandwiched between the connector nut and at least a portion of the connector base.

7. 7. The playground component of claim 6, further comprising a washer that also provides sandwiching between the connector nut and at least a portion of the connector base when the connector nut is attached to the connector base such that the portion of the component defining the specially shaped opening is sandwiched between the connector nut and at least a portion of the connector base.

8. 7. The playground component of claim 6, further comprising one or more spacers configured to increase how far the stopper extends into the component when the connector nut is attached to at least a portion of the connector base such that the portion of the component defining the specially shaped opening is sandwiched between the connector nut and at least a portion of the connector base.

9. The playground component of claim 8 , wherein the spacer is a spring.

10. 2. The playground component of claim 1, wherein the connector nut is configured to attach to a portion of the connector base that extends out of the specially shaped opening after at least a portion of the connector base is inserted into the component through the specially shaped opening and rotated to the second orientation.

11. 1. A method of assembling playground components, comprising: providing a rope having a connector pre-assembled thereon, said connector including a connector base and a connector nut; Providing a component with a specially shaped opening; positioning at least a portion of the connector base in a first orientation and then inserting the at least a portion into the component through the specially shaped opening; rotating at least a portion of the connector base to a second orientation within the component such that when at least a portion of the connector base is in the second orientation, at least a portion of the connector base is not pulled back through the specially shaped opening; and securing the connector nut to a portion of the connector base, thereby securing the rope to the component; Methods including:

12. 12. The method of claim 11, wherein securing the connector nut to a portion of the connector further comprises securing the connector nut to a portion of the connector base that protrudes through the specially shaped opening to an outer region of the component.

13. The method of claim 11 , further comprising adjusting tension in the rope by placing one or more spacers on the rope inside the component.

14. The method of claim 11 , wherein securing the connector nut to the portion of the connector further comprises threading the connector nut onto the portion of the connector.

15. 12. The method of claim 11, wherein providing the rope with a connector further comprises providing the rope with a connector including a die-cast connector base and a die-cast connector nut.

16. 12. The method of claim 11, wherein providing the rope with a connector pre-assembled thereon further comprises providing the rope with a connector that is prevented from sliding off the end of the rope by a stopper.

17. 1. A playground component comprising: a component; and a rope connected to the component with the connector pre-assembled on the rope with a stopper that prevents the connector component from sliding off the end of the rope.

18. 18. The playground component of claim 17, wherein the connector includes a connecting base having a portion that can be inserted through a specially shaped opening in the component when the portion is rotated in a first orientation but cannot be inserted when the portion is rotated in a second orientation.

19. 20. The playground component of claim 18, wherein the connector base further comprises a connection nut configured to be threaded onto the connection base.

20. 20. The playground component of claim 19, wherein the connection base and the connection nut are die-cast.

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