Portable rebound device with force adjustment assembly

Abstract

A rebound device comprises: a front member, a rear member and a spring mechanism, wherein the spring mechanism comprises a first biasing element and a force adjustment assembly. The force adjustment assembly comprises: a spring member, wherein the spring member comprises a front flat surface and a rear flat surface, wherein the front flat surface and the rear flat surface are connected at a circular portion, wherein the front flat surface contacts the inner surface of the front member; a screw housing, wherein the screw housing is fixed to the inner surface of the rear member, wherein the screw housing comprises a longitudinal channel and a hole on an upper surface; a drive screw, wherein the drive screw passes through the hole and is positioned along the longitudinal channel of the screw housing; a threaded block, wherein the threaded block is positioned in the longitudinal channel of the screw housing, wherein the threaded block is configured to move vertically along the longitudinal channel, and wherein the rear flat surface of the spring member is fixed to the threaded block.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application contains an International PCT application claiming the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 084,947, filed on September 29, 2020, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present subject matter generally relates to a portable rebound device. More particularly, the present invention relates to a rebound device for use against a stationary surface to facilitate a rebound motion, the rebound device including a mechanism for regulating the force of the rebound motion. Background Art

[0004] Rocking is a familiar part of everyday human life. Over the centuries, people have identified many proven benefits of rocking, and modern medicine has discovered new motivations and more reasons for rocking. One of the most well-known uses of rocking is to calm infants. The gentle bouncing motion simulates the motions that infants feel in their mother's womb and can soothe infants, help lull a child to sleep or while feeding, and reduce crying during bouts of colic. The rhythmic motion also helps create a better bond between parent and child and aids in the growth of newborns by stimulating both motor and sensory development.

[0005] Swinging is a safe activity and option for personal benefit for those who live an otherwise sedentary lifestyle or for those with limited physical movement, including many elderly people, individuals with injuries or chronic illnesses, or those who sit for long periods of time. The act of rocking has proven benefits, such as relief from arthritis and back pain, improved muscle tone, improved balance, and increased circulation. Studies have shown that Alzheimer's patients who rock regularly show significant improvements in depression, anxiety, balance, and reduced use of pain medication.

[0006] Research has shown that rocking promotes improved mental health for those suffering from dementia, anxiety and depression due to the release of mood-boosting endorphins. Other studies have shown that the benefits of rocking can provide comfort and increase active treatment for anxiety, attention deficit disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism. For example, studies on ADHD patients have shown that rocking movements (such as its intensity and frequency) are associated with accuracy in cognitively demanding tasks that require sufficient attention. Research has also shown that vestibular rehabilitation therapy (such as rocking) can help patients with vestibular dysfunction (such as vertigo and dizziness attacks). Rocking can also be a low-energy exercise to increase blood flow for those who are experiencing physical limitations (such as the elderly and those with limited mobility or physical disabilities). Health experts recommend doing some form of exercise while sitting or lying for long periods of time to increase blood circulation and muscle movement. Rocking has also been shown to help people fall asleep faster and spend more time in non-rapid eye movement sleep to improve memory consolidation.

[0007] Rocking can also improve pain management by calming the parasympathetic nervous system. It also improves cognitive processes by soothing the brain and promoting the focus of logical thinking skills.

[0008] However, without an external device (such as a rocking chair) to assist the repetitive motion, rocking cannot be performed comfortably in a seated position for long periods of time, not even for short periods of time, let alone for hours on end. Long periods of continuous rocking motion without assistance can also cause severe strain on muscles and joints. Existing solutions are extremely limited in their embodiments, versatility and flexibility of use. Operating conditions and other practical requirements often prevent users from using existing equipment when and where rocking assistance is most needed. The use of traditional rocking furniture is limited because it cannot be easily moved from room to room or accompany the user during travel.

[0009] In addition, traditional rocking solutions require a lot of floor space and are therefore not suitable for use in small rooms and can be difficult to store when not in use. While some hospitals and nurseries have rocking chairs or gliders for parents, staff and caregivers, providing rocking chairs or gliders in every room is expensive, which is a problem for institutions with limited budgets. Smaller options for rocking babies include rocking beds, trampolines or cradles, but in these options, the baby is separated from the caregiver, limiting the ability to hold, nurse or easily feed the baby while rocking.

[0010] Furthermore, conventional rocking solutions cannot be combined with other existing furniture, such as sofas or beds, and therefore cannot be used when the user needs to rock to hold, nurse or calm the baby. Especially at night, many mothers prefer to feed in an upright position in bed, but must choose between the comfort of a bed and the functionality of rocking furniture, as nothing can provide both.

[0011] Conventional rocking solutions also suffer from a lack of adaptability to the user of the furniture. For example, a rocking chair may be very comfortable for use by an adult, but may be too strenuous for the elderly, those recovering from surgery, those with limited mobility, those with physical disabilities, etc. The force required to produce a full backward and forward cycle in a rocking chair or rocking recliner can be easily provided by leaning back by a larger, heavier body, while a smaller person, those with underlying medical conditions, and / or the elderly may need to use their legs to repeatedly push off the ground to produce movement. With conventional rocking chairs and rocking recliners, it is difficult to achieve a partial rocking cycle or more delicate movements when the user or child may prefer a gentle rebound rhythm. The size, shape and condition of the user's body, as well as the user's personal preferences, can affect the amount or magnitude of force required when using rocking furniture, and conventional rocking furniture cannot meet the different needs of multiple users.

[0012] Finally, conventional rocking solutions are not adjustable to accommodate different users of different sizes, body shapes, and rocking needs. For example, a rocking recliner moves in response to the amount of force applied, and a smaller person with less weight may not be able to generate enough rocking force, while a larger person with more weight may have no problem generating rocking force. An elderly person may need to generate a rocking motion with even less weight. Thus, one rocking device may not be able to provide the appropriate rocking force for a variety of body shapes and builds.

[0013] Therefore, there is a need for a portable, compressible, resilient device for producing a rocking motion while in a seated position that is adjustable to accommodate the needs of different users as described herein. Summary of the invention

[0014] In order to meet the above and other needs, the present disclosure provides a kind of rebound device, and this rebound device comprises an adjustable spring mechanism, to adapt to the needs of users with different statures, body shapes and needs. The rebound device described herein comprises a front member and a rear member, and a spring mechanism is arranged between the front member and the rear member, and the spring mechanism comprises a force adjustment assembly. During use, the user positions the rear member of the rebound device against a stationary object (such as a chair or a wall). The user places his back against the front member and applies pressure to produce a gentle rocking motion. The rebound device applies a biasing force when compressed, and the biasing force pushes the upper body of the user forward gently while maintaining a sitting posture. The biasing force is determined in part by the setting of the adjustable mechanism.

[0015] In one embodiment, the resilient device comprises a front member, a rear member and a spring mechanism positioned between the front member and the rear member. The spring mechanism comprises a first elongated spring element and a second elongated spring element, each spring element comprising a front flat surface and a rear flat surface, the front flat surface and the rear flat surface being integral with the circular portion. Each spring element operates as a leaf spring, wherein the front flat surface and the rear flat surface move towards and away from each other around the circular portion.

[0016] Each of the front planar surfaces of each spring element is twisted inwardly toward the rear planar surface to form a curvature for receiving the back of a user. The front member is fixed to the front planar surface of the spring element and includes a curvature that is complementary to the curvature of the front planar surface. The rear member is fixed to the rear planar surface of the spring element. During use, the back of the user rests comfortably against the curved front member and the angled front planar surface, while the rear member and the rear planar portion rest against the fixed surface.

[0017] The force adjustment assembly includes a third spring element, similar to the first and second spring elements, which operates as a leaf spring, having a front flat surface and a rear flat surface that move toward and away from each other. The third spring element moves vertically along the height of the rear member between a lowest position adjacent to the circular portions of the first and second spring elements and a highest position distal to the circular portions of the first and second spring elements. The adjustable mechanism includes: a guide rail fixed to the inner surface of the front member; and a screw housing mounted on the inner surface of the rear member. During use, the guide rail on the front member receives the front flat surface of the third spring element.

[0018] Adjustment is provided by moving the rear flat surface of the third spring element along the length of the screw housing. More specifically, the threaded block is fixed to the rear flat surface of the spring element and includes an inner portion that is positioned within and moves along the longitudinal channel of the screw housing. The threaded block may be fixed to the rear flat surface via a screw or other attachment mechanism, or may be integrally formed with the spring element.

[0019] The drive screw extends through a screw housing cover (which is mounted to the screw housing) and extends through a hole in the screw housing cover so that the shaft of the drive screw extends into the passage. The drive screw is held in place by bearings at opposite ends of the screw. The user can rotate the screw within the passage of the screw housing by turning a knob attached to the upper end of the drive screw outside the screw housing.

[0020] The shaft of the drive screw extends through a threaded hole in the threaded block within the channel, so that rotation of the drive screw causes the threaded block to move vertically within the channel. A user manually turns a knob fixed to the drive screw to adjust the positioning of the threaded block within the channel, thereby also causing the rear flat surface of the third threaded element to move vertically along the channel.

[0021] The positioning of the spring elements of the force adjustment assembly modifies the rebound or biasing force provided by the rebound device. For example, in an exemplary embodiment, the first and second spring elements alone provide a rebound force of about 25 pounds and about 30 pounds. Depending on the positioning of the third spring element of the force adjustment assembly, the addition of the third spring element of the adjustable mechanism increases the rebound force to between 30 pounds and 60 pounds. In other embodiments, the spring mechanism 106 can provide a smaller or larger minimum value, maximum value and / or range of rebound force with and without the force adjustment assembly.

[0022] With reference to the embodiment shown herein, when the 3rd spring element of adjustable mechanism is positioned at the lowest position adjacent to the circular portion of the first and second spring elements, the resilience force increased is minimum. Along with the 3rd spring element gradually moving upward to the highest position, the amount of additional resilience force increases gradually. The user can use small incremental changes to adjust the biasing force, to increase or decrease the pounds of the biasing force provided by the device. When the 3rd spring element of adjustable mechanism is positioned at the highest position far-side of the circular portion of the first and second spring elements, the resilience force increased is at maximum value. The device can provide the biasing force falling into about 30 pounds and about 60 pounds of scopes, and the adjustable mechanism enables the user to select the specific stature, body shape and the precise force of the situation that are suitable for the health using the device.

[0023] In one embodiment, the front and rear members include front and rear flexible materials extending between the paired front and rear flat surfaces of the first and second spring elements, respectively. The front and rear flexible materials are tightly stretched between the front and rear pairs of the first and second members, respectively, so that pressure applied to the materials causes the front flat portions to move toward the corresponding rear flat portions. Foam pads or other thick materials can be fixed to each of the front and rear members and / or the flexible materials.

[0024] An object of the present invention is to provide a solution for adjusting the intensity of the bouncing motion provided by a rebounding device, maintaining a smooth bouncing motion throughout the entire range of available intensities.

[0025] Another object of the present invention is to provide a solution so that a single rebound device can be used for a number of people with different body shapes, sizes and rebound movement needs.

[0026] Another advantage of the present invention is that it enables a single resilient device to be used in a variety of settings from child care to elderly care.

[0027] An advantage of the present invention is that it provides a portable rebound device that is easy to carry from one location to another, takes up little space, and can be easily stored when not in use.

[0028] Another advantage of the present invention is that it can be used with almost any existing furniture or support surface; thereby allowing the user to continue rocking while holding the baby and sitting anywhere they find a comfortable support surface.

[0029] Another advantage of the present invention is that it provides a solution to the need for rocking motion that is much less expensive than conventional rocking solutions.

[0030] Additional objects, advantages and novel features of the examples will be partially set forth in the following description, and will become partially apparent to those skilled in the art after examining the following description and the accompanying drawings, or may be understood by production or operation of the examples. The objects and advantages of these concepts may be realized and obtained by the methods, means and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0031] One or more embodiments according to the present concept are described by way of example only and not limitation.In the drawings, the same reference numerals represent the same or similar elements.

[0032] Figure 1is a front perspective view of a resilient device including a force adjustment assembly of the present application, showing the outer cover.

[0033] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Side elevation of the rebound device.

[0034] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A top plan view of the front flat surface of the spring element of the rebound device.

[0035] Figures 4 to 6 Shown Figure 1 The rebound device is respectively in a decompressed position, a partially compressed position and a compressed position.

[0036] Figure 7 yes Figure 1 A front perspective view of the internal components of a rebound device with a force adjustment assembly.

[0037] Figure 8 yes Figure 1 A front elevation view of the internal components of the rebound device.

[0038] Fig. 9 yes Figure 1 Rear elevation view of the internal components of the rebound device.

[0039] Fig.10 yes Figure 1 A top plan view of the internal components of the rebound device.

[0040] Fig.11 yes Figure 1 A bottom plan view of the internal components of the rebound device.

[0041] Fig.12 yes Figure 1 A front elevation view of the first and second spring elements of the rebound device.

[0042] Fig.13 yes Figure 1 Plan view of the first and second spring elements of the rebound device.

[0043] Fig.14 yes Figure 1 Bottom plan view of the first and second spring elements of the rebound device.

[0044] Fig.15 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of a force adjustment assembly of a rebound device.

[0045] Fig.16 yes Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of the force adjustment assembly of the rebound device.

[0046] Fig.17 It is roughly along Fig.15 In Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the force adjustment assembly of the rebound device taken along line AA.

[0047] Figures 18 to 21 yes Figure 1 A front perspective view, a rear perspective view, a front elevation view and a side elevation view of a screw housing of a force adjustment assembly of a rebound device.

[0048] Fig. 22 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of the threaded block of the force adjustment assembly of the rebound device.

[0049] Fig.23 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of the guide rail of the force adjustment assembly of the rebound device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0050] Figures 1 to 23 An example embodiment of a rebound device 100 is shown. Figure 1 and Figure 7 As shown in FIG, the resilient device 100 includes a front member 102, a rear member 104, and a spring mechanism 106 positioned between the front member 102 and the rear member 104 and within a housing 107. In the illustrated embodiment, the spring mechanism 106 includes first and second spring elements 110, 112 and a force adjustment assembly 114.

[0051] like Figures 5 to 7 As shown in , during use, the rear member 104 is against a solid surface. The user positions his back against the front member 102 and applies pressure to produce a gentle rocking motion. The user positions the resilient device 100 between his back and a support surface (such as a headboard of a bed, a backrest of a sofa, an airplane seat or a wall). The resilient device 100 applies a biasing force through a spring mechanism 106 when compressed, which pushes the user's upper body forward while maintaining a sitting posture. The combination of the biasing force of the resilient device 100 overcoming the weight of the user produces a momentum that allows continued bouncing while rocking a baby or oneself for personal relaxation, activity or comfort without requiring too much effort for hours. The spring mechanism 106 of the resilient device 100 shown includes a force adjustment assembly 114 that enables the user to adjust the amount of the resilient force provided by the device 100, as described in more detail below.

[0052] Figures 7 to 23 The internal components of the rebound device 100 are shown. Figure 7 , Fig.10 and Fig.11As best seen in the front member 102, the front member 102 has a concave curvature between the first and second spring elements 110, 112. The rear member 102 is planar between the first and second spring elements 110, 112. Each of the front member 102 and the rear member 104 can be made of metal (such as aluminum), plastic, or any suitable material. In other embodiments, a single spring element or more than two spring elements can be used.

[0053] Figure 12 to Figure 14 The curved portion of the spring elements 110, 112 is shown. Each of the first and second spring elements 110, 112 has an elongated shape including a length L and a width W, the length L being greater than the width W, and extending between a front end portion 110a, 112a and a rear end portion 110b, 112b. Each elongated spring element 110, 112 is circumferentially oriented about an axis C L1 Bending. Axis C L1 Along the rear end portion 110b, 112b, parallel to the width of each spring element 110, 112, and spaced apart from the midpoint along the length L, the length L of the spring element 110, 112 is divided into a front flat surface 110c, 112c and a rear flat surface 110d, 112d by a rounded portion 110e, 112e. When in the rest position, the front flat surface 110c, 112c and the rear flat surface 110d, 112d extend adjacent to each other but slightly away from each other at an angle. The rounded portions 110e, 112e act as a leaf spring mechanism that enables the rebound device 100 to provide a rebound motion.

[0054] like Fig.12 and Fig.13 As best seen in FIG. 1 , the front end 110a, 112a of each front planar surface 110c, 112c is twisted relative to the intersection 110f, 112f where the front planar surface 110c, 112c intersects the rounded portion 110e, 112e. Fig.13 As shown in , each inner edge 110g, 112g of each front end 110a, 112a is twisted inwardly toward the corresponding rear flat surface to form a support for receiving the back of the user. Each outer edge 110j, 112j of each front end 110a, 112a is twisted outwardly away from the corresponding rear flat surface to further form a support.

[0055] exist Figure 7 As shown in FIG. 1 , the rear flat surfaces 110d, 112d of each spring element 110, 112 are flat and coplanar relative to each other so as to apply evenly distributed pressure on the fixed surface. During use, the user's back rests comfortably against the front member 102 and the angled front flat surfaces 110c, 112c, while the rear flat surfaces 110d, 112d rest against the fixed surface.

[0056] In one embodiment, each elongated spring element 110, 112 may have a width W ranging between about 1.5 inches and about 2.5 inches, but the width may vary as desired and may vary over the entire length L. Each spring element 110, 112 may also have a thickness T ranging between about 0.125 inches and about 0.25 inches, formed from a single layer or multiple stacked layers. In the illustrated embodiment, the width W and thickness T of the spring elements 110, 112 vary along the length L, with the width W and thickness T having smaller values ​​at the rounded portions 110e, 112e than at the front end 110b and the rear end 112b. In other embodiments, the width W and thickness T of the spring elements 110, 112 vary based on the manufacturing process and / or as desired.

[0057] The first and second spring elements 110, 112 may be constructed of any material that provides sufficient elasticity to achieve repeated rebound motion while being strong enough to structurally support the weight of a person. Example metal materials include: aluminum, preferably but not necessarily aluminum alloys with a T6 temper, such as 6061T6; steel and steel alloys, such as AISI 5160. The device may also be made of plastics (such as polyvinyl chloride), carbon fiber composites, or wood materials.

[0058] refer to Figure 7 and Figures 15 to 23 , the spring mechanism 106 of the illustrated embodiment also includes a force adjustment assembly 114 positioned between the first and second spring elements 110, 112 at a midpoint along the width of the front and rear members 102, 104. The force adjustment assembly 114 includes a third spring element 116 similar to the first and second spring elements 110, 112. The third spring element 116 has an elongated shape including a length L and a width W, the length L being greater than the width W, and extending between a front end portion 116a and a rear end portion 116b. The length of the third spring element 116 is about parallel to the width of the front and rear members 102, 104. Figure 7 C shown in L2 Axis C L2 The third spring element 116 is curved and spaced apart from a midpoint along the length L, thereby dividing the length L of the third spring element 116 into a front flat surface 116c and a rear flat surface 116d by a rounded portion 116e. When in the rest position, the front flat surface 116c and the rear flat surface 116d extend adjacent to each other but slightly angled away from each other.

[0059] The circular portion 116e of the third spring element 116 acts as an additional leaf spring mechanism that provides an additional resilient force to the resilient forces provided by the first and second spring elements 110, 112. This positioning of the third spring element 116 modifies the strength or biasing force of the resilient device 100 by adding to the forces applied by the first and second spring elements 110, 112.

[0060] The circular portion 116e may include a reinforcing spring element 117 fixed thereto. The reinforcing spring element 117 has a length extending along the circular portion 116e of the spring element 116. In one embodiment, the reinforcing spring element 117 is welded or otherwise fixed to the circular portion 116e.

[0061] In one embodiment, the first and second spring elements 110, 112 alone provide a rebound force of about 27 lbs and about 30 lbs. The addition of the third spring element 116 of the force adjustment assembly 114 increases the rebound force to between 30 lbs and 60 lbs when the third spring element 116 is in the lowest and highest positions, respectively.

[0062] When the third spring element 116 is positioned in the lowest position, the resilient device 100 operates primarily using only the first and second spring elements 110, 112, since a large amount of force is required to engage the third spring element 116. L2 The central axis C of the circular portions 110e, 112e of the first and second spring elements 110, 112 is L1 In the aligned condition, the third spring element 116 is the most difficult to reach. The smallest amount of additional spring force is provided in this position.

[0063] As the third spring element 116 gradually moves upward to the highest position, the amount of additional resilience gradually increases. When the third spring element 116 is in the highest position, the maximum amount of additional resilience is provided. L2 The central axis C of the circular portions 110e, 112e of the first and second spring elements 110, 112 is L1 When the deflection is maximum, the rounded portion 116e of the third spring element 116 can provide the maximum amount of additional resilience.

[0064] The user can adjust the biasing force using small incremental changes to increase or decrease the pounds of biasing force provided by the force adjustment assembly 114. The force adjustment assembly 114 enables the user to use the device to select the exact force appropriate for a particular size, shape, and condition of the body.

[0065] In other embodiments, the spring mechanism 106 may include first and second adjustable mechanisms on the first and second spring elements 110, 112, with or without the addition of the force adjustment assembly 114. Each of the first and second spring elements may include, for example, an adjustable torsion spring having a preload setting attached to a rotatable knob. In some embodiments, the adjustable torsion spring is fixed to the elongated element 110, 112 by a frame mounted thereto. In other embodiments, an adjustable torsion spring is provided in place of the elongated element 110, 112, and the adjustable torsion spring is fixed to the front and rear members 102, 104.

[0066] like Fig.15 As shown in the figure, the adjustment of the biasing force of the force adjustment assembly 114 is provided by moving the rear flat surface 116d of the third spring element 116 along the longitudinal channel 118a in the screw housing 118 mounted on the inner surface 104a of the rear member 104. The force adjustment assembly 114 also includes a guide rail 121, which is fixed to the inner surface 102a of the front member 102 for receiving the front flat surface 116c of the third spring element 116.

[0067] refer to Figures 18 to 21 , the screw housing 118 has a longitudinal shape extending between the upper base 118b and the lower base 118c. The screw housing 118 is fixed to the rear member 104 by screws extending through upper and lower pairs of holes 118e, 118f respectively provided in the upper and lower bases 118b, 118c, but any other suitable attachment means may be used as needed or required due to manufacturing needs.

[0068] refer to Fig.16 , the screw housing cover 122 is fixed to the correspondingly shaped platform 118d of the upper base 118b of the screw housing. The screw housing cover 122 includes a hole 122a aligned with the longitudinal channel 118a of the screw housing 118. The screw housing cover 122 can be fixed to the screw housing 118 by screws, glue or any other suitable fixing means.

[0069] like Fig.16 and Fig.17 As shown in FIG. 1 , the drive screw 124 is positioned within the hole 122a and extends into the longitudinal passage 118a. The positioning of the drive screw 124 within the screw housing 118 is secured by bearings 126a, 126b at opposite ends of the drive screw 124. A threaded screw 128 connects a knob 130 to the upper end 124 of the drive screw 124 above the screw housing cover 122.

[0070] like Fig.16 and Fig. 22As shown in , the threaded block 132 includes: an inner portion 132a, which is positioned in the longitudinal channel 118a of the screw housing 118; and an outer portion 132b, which is located outside the screw housing 118. The outer shape of the inner portion 132a along its width corresponds to the cross-sectional shape of the longitudinal channel 118a, and the threaded hole 132c extends through the inner portion 132 parallel to the height of the channel 118b for receiving the shaft 124b of the drive screw 124a. In one embodiment, the height of the drive screw 124 is between about 120mm and about 123mm, and the height of the inner portion 132a of the threaded block 132 is about 25mm. In other embodiments, the size can be varied as needed or desired. The cover element can be fixed on the top of the rear flat surface 116d of the third spring element 116, and the screw extends through the cover element, the rear flat surface 116d of the third spring element 116, and the threaded block 132. Rotation of the drive screw 124 within the passage 118 causes the threaded block 132 to move along the shaft 124 a of the drive screw 124 .

[0071] The outer portion 132b is positioned outside the longitudinal channel 118a of the screw housing 118. The outer portion 132b is formed integrally with the inner portion 132a so that when the inner portion 132a moves along the drive screw 124, the outer portion 132b also moves with the inner portion 132a. The outer portion 132b provides a flat surface 132d to which the rear end portion 116b of the third spring element 116 is attached. The rear flat surface 116d of the third spring element 116 can be fixed to the threaded block 132 via screws, adhesives or other attachment mechanisms, or can be formed integrally with the third spring element 116. The rotation of the drive screw 124 causes the threaded block 132 to move vertically along the screw housing 118, which in turn causes the third spring element 116 to move vertically along the screw housing 118.

[0072] like Fig.16 As shown in the embodiment illustrated in FIG, the screw housing 118 may include a notch or marking 118g along an outer surface 118h adjacent to the longitudinal channel 118a so that a user can easily reference the location of the threaded block 132 along the channel 118a and note the notch 118a or location for future reference.

[0073] Fig.23The base element 121a and the cover element 121b of the guide rail 121 are shown, and the base element 121a is fixed to the inner surface 102a of the front member 102. The base element 121a includes a recessed track 121c located between the first and second raised side surfaces 121d, 121e, and a screw or other attachment tool can extend through the first and second raised side surfaces 121d, 121e. The cover element 121b provides a protective structure around the track 121c so that the front flat surface 116c of the third spring element 116 can move along the track 121c without obstruction during use. The cutout 121f in the cover element 121b is provided for the third spring element 116 to move completely up and down along the screw housing 118.

[0074] like Figures 4 to 6 As shown in , during use, the user positions the rear surface 104 of the device 100 against a stationary object (such as a chair, wall, tree, etc.). The user places their back against the front member 102 and applies pressure to produce a gentle rocking motion to move the resilient device 100 between a minimum compression position and a maximum compression position. The user can adjust the biasing force as needed by rotating the knob 132 of the force adjustment assembly 114. Figure 4 In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , the resilient device 100 is in a minimum compression position, and the front member 102 is farthest from the rear member 104 . Figure 5 The resilient device 100 is shown in a partially compressed position with the front member 102 positioned intermediate the rear member 104 . Figure 6 The resilient device 100 is shown in a maximum compressed position with the front member 102 closest to the rear member 104. The spring mechanism 106, when compressed, applies a biasing force that pushes the user's upper body forward while maintaining a seated posture.

[0075] like Figures 1 to 3As shown in , a foam pad, a rubber material (such as natural latex), or other thick cushioning material can be fixed to the front member 102 or the flexible material, and can be optionally encapsulated in a shell material 107. The shell material 107 can extend around the entire resilient device 100, and can be limited to surround the front flat surfaces 110c, 112c of the front member 102 and the spring elements 110, 112 and the rear flat surfaces 110d, 112d of the rear member 104 and the spring elements 110, 112, or another other selected portion of the resilient device 100. The shell material 107 can be a plastic (such as polyvinyl chloride), a carbon fiber composite material, a leather material, or any other suitable material. In some embodiments, the shell can also include a plurality of layers including one or more of the following: a cushioning material, a rubber material, a para-aramid synthetic fiber material (such as Kevlar); and a fabric or leather outer layer. In another embodiment, each of the front member 102 and the rear member 104 can include a fabric material, which includes a tubular portion for receiving the front and rear flat portions of the spring element. The fabric front member and the fabric rear member are sized to be tight enough to support the weight and elastic force of the user.

[0076] In other embodiments, the components of the resilient device 100 can be integrally formed. For example, the front member 102, the rear member 104, and the first and second spring elements 110, 112 can be integrally formed. In one embodiment, the resilient device 100 can be composed of a metal (such as an aluminum alloy) that is stamped, laser cut, water jetted, or otherwise cut from a sheet of material and press-formed. In other embodiments, the resilient device 100 can include a plastic-formed wooden material. In other embodiments, the resilient device 100 can be a polyvinyl chloride material that is molded (such as injection molded). The materials and methods of manufacture can vary based on the manufacturing process or as needed.

[0077] In other embodiments, the spring mechanism 106 can be modified to include one or more reinforcing spring elements that provide additional elasticity and / or strength to accommodate heavier users. The number, positioning, and location of the reinforcing elements can vary as needed or in some embodiments based on the user's preferences. In some embodiments, the reinforcing spring elements added to any portion of the first, second, and third spring elements 110, 112, 116 and / or the spring mechanism 106 can be adjustable.

[0078] For example, a reinforcing spring element similar to the reinforcing spring element 117 described above with reference to the third spring element 116 can be fixed to the circular portions 110e, 112e of the first and second spring elements 110, 112. Each reinforcing spring element has a length that extends along the circular portions 110e, 112e of the spring elements 110, 112. In one embodiment, the reinforcing spring elements are welded or otherwise fixed to the corresponding circular portions 110e, 112e. In other embodiments, the reinforcing spring elements can be snapped into place or otherwise added only when needed.

[0079] In other embodiments, the reinforcing spring element can be fixed along the inner surface of the circular portion 110e, 112e of the first and second spring elements 110, 112. Such a reinforcing spring element can be attached to the first and second spring elements 110, 112 by a frame component, and the reinforcing element is positioned along the inner surface of the circular portion 110e, 112e, 116e but not fixed to the inner surface. The frame can include components connected to the front member 102, the rear member 104 and / or the spring elements 110, 112, 116.

[0080] In other embodiments, the reinforcing element comprises a torsion spring that can be adjusted. In other embodiments, the reinforcing spring element can include one or more torsion springs, one or more leaf springs, or Z-shaped springs that are fixed to the inner surface 104a of the rear member 104 between the spring elements 110, 112. In this embodiment, the leaf spring can be fixed to the inner surface 104a of the rear member 104, and the leaf spring only provides resistance to the front member 102 when the user applies considerable pressure to the front member 102 during use.

[0081] In other embodiments, one or more reinforcing spring elements are added to one or more of the following locations: inside or outside of the rounded portions 110e, 112e of the spring elements 110, 112, between the front flat surface 110c, 112c and the rear flat surface 110d, 112d of each spring element 110, 112, and between the front member 102 and the rear member 104. The use of (one or more) reinforcing spring elements enables the resilient device 100 to be used by heavier people and increases the life of the spring elements 110, 112. The ability to optionally add and / or adjust reinforcing spring elements also enables the resilient device to be purchased by a single family and to be used by people of various sizes.

[0082] In further embodiments, the resilient device 100 may include first and second rubber guards extending along the rounded portions 110e, 112e of the spring members 110, 112. The rubber guards may include printed portions that prevent the resilient device 100 from sliding on the floor, the seat of a chair, or other surfaces during use.

[0083] The resilient device 100 may also include first and second structural members that support the resilient device for independent use without being positioned against a structural support (such as a backrest of a chair or a wall) when in use. In one embodiment, the first and second structural members are hingedly attached to the rear flat portions 116a, 116b of the first and second spring members 108a, 108b, respectively, so that the first and second structural members rotate between an open position and a closed position. In the closed position, these structural members are fixed to the rear flat portion 116, thereby allowing the resilient device 100 to be used against a structural surface (such as a chair, a wall, etc.), as described above. When these structural members are in the open position, they extend away from the rear flat portions 110d, 112d, so that the rear flat portions 110d, 112d form an acute angle with the surface to which the resilient device 100 is positioned. Thus, a user can lean against the resilient device 100 to produce a rocking motion without the need for a piece of furniture or other structural support.

[0084] The dimensions of the resilient device 100 may be modified to adapt the device to a particular use. For example, the width of the first and second spring elements 110, 112 of the resilient device 100 may be wider than shown herein to accommodate use in conjunction with a wheelchair or a hospital bed.

[0085] As described above, the rebound device can be used for a variety of applications, from rocking babies to sleep to comforting and benefiting those suffering from diseases such as dementia, anxiety and autism. It should be noted that various changes and modifications to the presently preferred embodiments described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention and without diminishing its attendant advantages.

Claims

1. A rebound device, comprising: front member; rear member; as well as A spring mechanism comprising a biasing element and a force adjustment assembly, wherein the force adjustment assembly comprises: a first spring element including a front flat surface and a rear flat surface connected at a rounded portion, wherein the front flat surface contacts an inner surface of the front member; a screw housing secured to an inner surface of the rear member, wherein the screw housing includes a channel and an aperture on an upper surface; a drive screw extending through the aperture and positioned along the passageway of the screw housing; a threaded block positioned within a channel of the screw housing, wherein the threaded block engages the drive screw and is configured to move vertically along the channel, and wherein the rear flat surface of the first spring element is fixed to the threaded block; and A screw housing cover including a hole is positioned on the upper base of the screw housing such that the hole is aligned with the channel.

2. The rebound device according to claim 1, wherein: The threaded block includes an inner portion and an outer portion, wherein the inner portion is positioned within the channel of the screw housing and is configured to move along the axis of the drive screw, and the outer portion is located outside the channel, wherein the rear flat surface of the first spring element is attached to the outer portion.

3. The rebound device according to claim 1, wherein: The biasing element includes a second spring element and a third spring element, each having a length and a width, wherein the length is greater than the width, and the second spring element and the third spring element are bent about an axis parallel to the width.

4. The rebound device according to claim 3, wherein: Each of the second spring element and the third spring element includes a front flat portion, a rear flat portion, and a rounded portion between the front flat portion and the rear flat portion.

5. The rebound device according to claim 4, wherein: A first front end of the front planar surface of the second spring element distal to the rounded portion includes an inner edge and an outer edge, and wherein the inner edge is twisted inwardly toward the rear planar surface of the second spring element.

6. The rebound device according to claim 5, wherein: A second front end of the front planar surface of the third spring element distal to the rounded portion includes an inner edge and an outer edge, and wherein the inner edge is twisted inwardly toward the rear planar surface of the third spring element.

7. A rebound device, comprising: front member; rear member; as well as A spring mechanism comprising a biasing element and a force adjustment assembly, wherein the force adjustment assembly comprises: a spring element including a front flat surface and a rear flat surface connected at a rounded portion, wherein the front flat surface contacts an inner surface of the front member; a screw housing secured to an inner surface of the rear member, wherein the screw housing includes a channel and an aperture on an upper surface; a drive screw passing through the hole and positioned along the passage of the screw housing, wherein the drive screw includes: a first bearing and a second bearing, the first bearing and the second bearing being positioned at a first end and a second end of the drive screw; and a knob secured to the first end of the drive screw by a threaded screw; and A threaded block is positioned within the channel of the screw housing, wherein the threaded block engages the drive screw and is configured to move vertically along the channel, and wherein the rear flat surface of the spring element is fixed to the threaded block.

8. A rebound device, comprising: front member; rear member; as well as A spring mechanism, the spring mechanism comprising a first spring element, a second spring element and a force adjustment assembly, wherein the force adjustment assembly comprises: a third spring element including a front flat surface and a rear flat surface connected at a rounded portion, wherein the front flat surface contacts an inner surface of the front member; a screw housing secured to an inner surface of the rear member, wherein the screw housing includes a longitudinal passage and a hole on an upper surface; a drive screw extending through the aperture and positioned along the longitudinal passage of the screw housing; a threaded block positioned within the longitudinal passage of the screw housing, wherein the threaded block is configured to move vertically along the longitudinal passage, and wherein the rear flat surface of the third spring element is fixed to the threaded block; a screw housing cover including an aperture, the screw housing cover being positioned on an upper base of the screw housing such that the aperture is aligned with the longitudinal passage; The movement of the third spring element is along the longitudinal channel of the screw housing.

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