Dynamic flexure plate

Abstract

A dynamic panel is provided that facilitates movement and muscle activity in a sedentary environment. The panel has a flexible planar surface that allows resistive flexion about multiple spatial planes. The support panel is formed from a plurality of linear ribs stacked in parallel, the plurality of linear ribs having a transverse central pivot hinge through each linear rib for providing a point of rotation for movement along a transverse central axis. A compression element for urging the plurality of linear ribs together and for providing a push force on each of the ribs to return to a rest position about the pivot hinge upon deflection. Each rib can be formed from a structural monolithic piece and can have an overall transverse profile similar to an arc segment.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a lower limb stimulation device, and more specifically, to a flexible plate for facilitating flexion of the lower limb around different planes of motion without interference. Background Technology

[0002] The first patent for a "balance board," issued in 1953, envisioned a game-like or recreational device that provided a rolling mechanism for leisure use, upon which a person stood and maintained balance by shifting their weight. See U.S. Patent No. 2,764,411, granted to Washburn Jr. Skiers and surfers quickly embraced the board to practice their balance skills during the off-season or in harsh natural conditions. Over the years, balance boards have been used in sports and martial arts training, for fitness, and for non-sports purposes.

[0003] In health and fitness applications, such devices have been used to develop balance, motor coordination skills, weight distribution, and core strength, and to strengthen ankles and knees in post-injury rehabilitation. Beyond sports, balance boards have become increasingly versatile: expanding neural networks to enable communication between the left and right hemispheres of the brain, thus improving efficiency; developing sensory integration and cognitive skills in children with developmental disabilities; making dancers' steps lighter; teaching singers optimal posture for airflow control; teaching musicians how to hold their instruments; overcoming writing difficulties and other factors that inhibit creativity; and as an adjunct to yoga and a form of yoga, fostering holistic health, self-awareness, and a peaceful state of mind.

[0004] There are over a hundred models of balance boards on the US market. Each of them is one of approximately 15 types of balance boards. Based on two binary parameters, each of these models and types can be categorized into one of five basic types of balance boards: whether its pivot is attached to the board, and whether the board tilts only in two opposite directions (left and right or front and back) or in each direction (360 degrees). More specifically: a rocker board is a rocker board where the pivot is a separate component; a ball-ring board is a rocker board where the pivot is a separate component; a rocker board is a rocker board tilted 360 degrees; a ball-ring board is a rocker board tilted 360 degrees; and a spring board sits on a 360-degree tilted compression spring.

[0005] Beyond training, recreation, or rehabilitation, the use of balance exercises and movements can be beneficial to health. Engaging in muscle activity and promoting movement can benefit those in sedentary environments by stimulating overall blood flow, particularly by increasing blood circulation in the lower limbs. However, the use of any traditionally known type of "balance board" is not conducive to those in sedentary professions, such as sitting or standing at a desk.

[0006] Therefore, there is a need for systems and devices that can promote movement and lower limb circulation to counteract the negative health effects of prolonged sitting in a non-distracting manner while sitting or standing at a desk (i.e., while working in the office, etc.). Summary of the Invention

[0007] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a dynamic board that promotes movement and muscle activity in a sedentary environment.

[0008] One feature of the present invention is to provide a flexible planar surface that allows resistive buckling around a plurality of spatial planes.

[0009] According to a brief description of a preferred embodiment, a multiplanar flexion plate is provided to provide resistive movement for the lower limb. The plate consists of multiple linear slats and sections stacked in parallel. The plate is provided to facilitate movement and muscle activity in a sedentary environment by providing a flexible planar surface that allows resistive flexion about multiple spatial planes. A support plate is formed by multiple linear ribs stacked in parallel, having a lateral central pivot hinge through each linear rib for providing a point of rotation for movement along a lateral central axis. Compression elements are used to press the multiple linear ribs together and to provide thrust on each rib to return to a rest position about the pivot hinge upon deflection. Each rib may be formed as a single structural element and may have an overall lateral profile similar to an arcuate segment. The central pivot hinge may include a solid rod located at the lateral central axis through each linear slat, providing a fulcrum for movement along the central axis. An elastic element, such as a nylon rubber band, further through the linear slats provides a recoil effect and prevents excessive rotation of the sections, thereby providing balance. The lower surface is curved, allowing users on the upper surface to flexibly tilt their feet.

[0010] It can be stood on with or without shoes on a multi-segmented flat surface, and is equipped with vertical grooves to allow the user to estimate the appropriate isometric posture. The wooden part rolls under the feet, mimicking a massage and stimulating good blood flow in the lower limbs.

[0011] Due to its low overall vertical height, this board is suitable for upright desks or any environment where users are forced to remain standing for extended periods.

[0012] The resistance provided around multiple axes tests the user's core muscles without distracting the user's efficient focus.

[0013] Its unique design, construction, and operation simultaneously enhance mobility, flexibility, and comfort.

[0014] Other objects, features, elements and advantages of the invention will become apparent during the following description. Attached Figure Description

[0015] The advantages and features of the invention will be better understood by referring to the accompanying drawings and the following more detailed description and claims, wherein like elements are identified by like symbols, wherein:

[0016] Figure 1 This is a top plan view of a dynamically resistive buckling plate according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0017] Figure 2 A plan view from below;

[0018] Figure 3 Its perspective view;

[0019] Figure 4 This is its side elevation view, with the opposite side being a mirror image;

[0020] Figure 5 for Figure 4 The side elevation view shows the rib 20 that buckles to form a curved upper surface;

[0021] Figure 6 This is a partially exploded top perspective view of a dynamically resistive buckling plate according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0022] Figure 7 A partial decomposition of its lower perspective view;

[0023] Figure 8 A top-down plan view of its partial decomposition;

[0024] Figure 9 Its frontal view; and

[0025] Figure 10 For along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view taken from the XX line. Detailed Implementation

[0026] As depicted in the figures, the best mode for carrying out the invention is presented in the form of its preferred embodiment. It should be understood that the legal scope of this specification is defined by the text of the appended claims, and this detailed description is to be construed as exemplary only and does not describe every possible embodiment, as describing every possible embodiment would be impractical, if not impossible. Many alternative embodiments can be implemented using present technology or technology developed after the date of this patent application, which still fall within the scope of the claims.

[0027] As depicted in the figure, the best mode for carrying out the invention is presented in the form of its preferred embodiment.

[0028] 1. Detailed description of the attached figures

[0029] Referring now to the accompanying drawings, in which the same reference numerals denote the same parts throughout several views, a support plate, generally designated 10, is shown according to a preferred embodiment of the invention, designed and adapted to provide resistive movement for the lower limbs. The support plate 10 is formed of a plurality of linear ribs or slats 20, which are formed as sections stacked in parallel, as described in more detail below. Each individual rib 20 may be a single piece (e.g., an integral piece) or formed from multiple mechanically connected sheets to serve as a single integrated element. Preferably, each rib 20 is made of wood, more preferably from an engineered material such as plywood, i.e., made of thin layers of wood veneer or "sheets" glued together with adjacent layers whose wood grain is rotated up to 90 degrees relative to each other. Alternatively, the ribs 20 may be formed from different engineered woods, including a group of manufacturing materials comprising medium-density fiberboard (MDF), oriented strand board (OSB), and chipboard.

[0030] In other or alternative configurations, rib 20 may be made of other suitable and functionally equivalent materials, such as molded plastics, metals (such as aluminum), other polymeric materials, composite materials, or combinations of different materials.

[0031] In any embodiment, the ribs 20 may be assembled in a spaced-out manner, thereby allowing movement of individual ribs 20 without colliding with adjacent ribs. In a preferred embodiment, the spacing between the ribs will be equal to or less than the size that could cause a user's foot or toes to accidentally wedge into the spacing. In a more preferred embodiment, the spacing will be between approximately 0.5 mm and approximately 10 mm. In an even more preferred embodiment, the spacing is approximately 1.5 mm.

[0032] The central axis 30 is positioned at the transverse centerline 32. The transverse centerline 32 forms an axis passing through each rib 20, providing a fulcrum for pivoting movement about the central axis 32.

[0033] It is also equipped with an elastic element 40. The elastic element 40 may be provided in the form of a nylon rubber band or other similar, functionally equivalent component (e.g., rubber, spring, etc.) that can compress the ribs 20 inward to compress multiple parallel ribs 20 together. As shown here, the rubber band 40 passes laterally through the linear ribs 20 in a manner offset from 34 and parallel to the central axis 30. This combination of tension and parallel offset around the central line 32 provides a recoil effect that keeps the ribs 20 parallel and provides resistance to their rotation.

[0034] When multiple ribs 20 are arranged adjacently and parallel to each other, a support platform is formed on the upper surface 52, generally designated 50. The upper surface 52 can be substantially flat. Opposite to the support platform 50 is the lower surface, generally designated 54. The lower surface 54 can be generally curved along a linear centerline 58. Due to the flat upper surface 52 and the curved lower surface 54, each rib 20 can have an overall lateral profile similar to an arc segment.

[0035] When the lower surface 54 bends along the linear centerline 58, the entire plate 10 can oscillate about this axis along the lower surface 54. To produce a similar ability to oscillate about the transverse centerline 32, each adjacent rib 20 can gradually increase in length along the linear centerline. The alignment of the gradually increasing ribs 20 can also form a second segmented curve 60 around the transverse axis 32. By forming curves along each transverse and linear axis, the lower surface 54 forms a composite curve that is generally dome-shaped.

[0036] The upper surface 50 may further include gripping reinforcements, such as a plurality of slots 56 formed along the top of each rib 20. Alternative gripping reinforcements may be provided and should be interpreted broadly to include any functionally equivalent methods, including but not limited to other textures, materials or coatings that provide such functionality.

[0037] 2. Operation of the preferred embodiment

[0038] In operation, the support plate 10 can provide a dynamic board that promotes movement and muscle activity in a sedentary environment. A flat upper surface 52, formed by a series of resilient compression ribs 20, provides a flexible, flat surface that allows for resistive flexing around multiple spatial planes. Those skilled in the art will recognize that while the device described herein can be used in a variety of situations and environments, such as as a platform in a work environment or as a balance board during therapy or fitness, the wide range of intended uses described, achieved by the structure, features, and functions of the invention, should not be considered as limiting the scope of the invention. Thus, the multi-segmented flat upper surface can be stood on, with or without shoes, and the grooves formed within the upper surface provide both traction and stimulation to the user's feet. Furthermore, the movement of the ribs 20 around multiple planes, and the rolling of the platform around the curved lower surface, each contribute to mimicking the motion of a massage used to stimulate good blood flow in the lower limbs.

[0039] With its relatively low overall vertical height, the board 10 can be adapted to upright desks or any environment where users are forced to remain standing for extended periods. The resistance provided around multiple axes puts a strain on the user's core muscles without distracting them from efficient focus. These features, when implemented in regular use, address issues associated with sedentary lifestyles and enhance the speed and quality of ankle rehabilitation programs without diverting attention from what the user needs and wants to do. This use of the dynamic flexion board enables controlled lower leg angle movements that mimic the range of motion of walking, allowing for muscle and joint activation, core engagement, proper posture, and contributing to non-motor energy expenditure (NEAT).

[0040] By providing the ability to "move" these muscles and joints during work and leisure activities—which people typically do for long periods of time sitting or standing still—this benefit can occur in a variety of situations, such as during work activities (sitting or standing while working, reading, brainstorming, making phone calls, face-to-face meetings, etc.), during leisure activities (using social media, reading, watching TV / videos, playing games, socializing, listening to music / podcasts, etc.), or in rehabilitation applications. Using a dynamic flexion board can lead to faster and more comprehensive rehabilitation by contributing to increased overall adherence and effectiveness of ankle rehabilitation programs. Achieving movement in all directions of the ankle joint (plantar flexion, dorsiflexion, inversion, eversion) simultaneously activates the surrounding muscles, tendons, and ligaments to reduce stiffness, increase strength, improve range of motion, enhance endurance, and improve proprioception. Controlled movement of the ankle joint helps reduce swelling and effusion more quickly. Gentle use of the muscles in the front and back of the leg promotes blood circulation. Improved circulation drains unhealthy fluids, allowing healthy blood and nutrients to enter the wound, helping it heal completely and quickly.

[0041] Designed for multitasking, this invention can be used in various work and leisure activities that would otherwise be considered sedentary. It is assumed that the provided exercises improve ankle strength, endurance, flexibility, and range of motion, allowing people to continue rehabilitating their ankles during their daily activities, compensating for lack of time, forgetfulness, and laziness that often lead to people neglecting their home exercise routines to rehabilitate their ankles. This typically affects the duration and quality of their rehabilitation and increases the likelihood of future re-injury.

[0042] Furthermore, by providing the ability to dorsiflex and plantarflex, mimicking walking movements, it expands the range of motion to a greater extent, better stretching and strengthening ligaments and supporting muscles, and promoting blood circulation. This use can prevent joint (ankle and knee) lock-up due to inactivity, contributing to non-active energy expenditure (NEAT), or energy expenditure for all non-sleep, non-eating, or non-structured activities (i.e., walking, cleaning, gardening, washing dishes, stretching).

[0043] The foregoing description of specific embodiments of the present invention is for illustrative and descriptive purposes. The title, background art, summary, description of the drawings, and abstract of this disclosure are therefore incorporated into this disclosure and are provided as illustrative examples rather than limiting descriptions. It should be understood at the time of filing that they are not intended to limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Furthermore, it will be apparent from the detailed description that illustrative examples are provided and that various features are combined in various embodiments to simplify the disclosure. This approach to disclosure should not be construed as reflecting an intention that the claimed subject matter requires more features than those expressly stated in each claim. Rather, as reflected in the following claims, the inventive subject matter lies in all features of fewer than those in a single disclosed configuration or operation. The following claims are thus incorporated into the detailed description, each claim being a separate claimed subject matter.

Claims

1. A support panel comprising a flexible planar surface that allows resistive flexing about a plurality of spatial planes, and comprising: a plurality of linear ribs that are stacked together in parallel and adapted to allow each of the plurality of linear ribs to articulate about a transverse center hinge; the transverse center hinge passing through each linear rib for providing a point of rotation that moves along a transverse centerline; a compression element for pushing the plurality of linear ribs together and for providing a pushing force on each rib to return to a resting position about the hinge upon deflection.

2. The support plate of claim 1, wherein, each of the plurality of ribs is formed from a unitary piece of structure.

3. The support plate of claim 1, wherein, each rib has an overall lateral profile that resembles an arc segment.

4. The support plate of claim 2, wherein, each rib has an overall lateral profile that resembles an arc segment.

5. The support plate of claim 4, wherein, each of the plurality of ribs is formed from a material selected from the group consisting of: wood; molded plastic; metal; aluminum; polymeric material; composite material; and combinations of different materials within the group.

6. The support plate of claim 1, wherein, the compression element compresses the plurality of parallel ribs in a manner that provides a pushing force that is offset from the transverse centerline, thereby providing a recoil effect that encourages the ribs to remain parallel and provides resistance to their rotation.

7. The support plate of claim 2, wherein, the compression element compresses the plurality of parallel ribs in a manner that provides a pushing force that is offset from the transverse centerline, thereby providing a recoil effect that encourages the ribs to remain parallel and provides resistance to their rotation.

8. The support plate of claim 3, wherein, the compression element compresses the plurality of parallel ribs in a manner that provides a pushing force that is offset from the transverse centerline, thereby providing a recoil effect that encourages the ribs to remain parallel and provides resistance to their rotation.

9. The support plate of claim 4, wherein, the compression element compresses the plurality of parallel ribs in a manner that provides a pushing force that is offset from the transverse centerline, thereby providing a recoil effect that encourages the ribs to remain parallel and provides resistance to their rotation.

10. The support plate of claim 5, wherein, the compression element compresses the plurality of parallel ribs in a manner that provides a pushing force that is offset from the transverse centerline, thereby providing a recoil effect that encourages the ribs to remain parallel and provides resistance to their rotation.

11. The support plate of claim 6, wherein, the compression element compresses the plurality of parallel ribs in a manner that provides a pushing force that is offset from the transverse centerline, thereby providing a recoil effect that encourages the ribs to remain parallel and provides resistance to their rotation.

12. The support panel of claim 1, further comprising: a substantially planar upper surface; a lower surface that is curved generally along the linear centerline and along the transverse centerline.

13. The support panel of claim 2, further comprising: a substantially planar upper surface; a lower surface that is curved generally along the linear centerline and along the transverse centerline.

14. The support panel of claim 3, further comprising: a substantially planar upper surface; a lower surface that is curved generally along the linear centerline and along the transverse centerline.

15. The support panel of claim 4, further comprising: a substantially planar upper surface; a lower surface that is curved generally along the linear centerline and along the transverse centerline.

16. The support panel of claim 5, further comprising: a substantially planar upper surface; a lower surface that is curved generally along the linear centerline and along the transverse centerline.

17. The support plate of claim 6, further comprising: a substantially planar upper surface; a lower surface curved generally along a linear centerline and along a transverse centerline.

18. The support plate of claim 7, further comprising: a substantially planar upper surface; a lower surface curved generally along a linear centerline and along a transverse centerline.

19. The support plate of claim 8, further comprising: a substantially planar upper surface; a lower surface curved generally along a linear centerline and along a transverse centerline.

20. The support plate of claim 9, further comprising: a substantially planar upper surface; a lower surface curved generally along a linear centerline and along a transverse centerline.

21. The support plate of claim 10, further comprising: a substantially planar upper surface; a lower surface curved generally along a linear centerline and along a transverse centerline.

22. The support plate of claim 11, further comprising: a substantially planar upper surface; a lower surface curved generally along a linear centerline and along a transverse centerline.

23. The support plate of claim 12, further comprising: a substantially planar upper surface; a lower surface curved generally along a linear centerline and along a transverse centerline.

24. The support plate of claim 13, further comprising: a substantially planar upper surface; a lower surface curved generally along a linear centerline and along a transverse centerline.

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