Amusement park equipment with overbridge

Abstract

An amusement park apparatus including a frame structure is provided. The frame structure includes at least one elevated platform supported by the frame structure around at least a portion of its outer periphery. A cover support pillar is associated with the frame structure and located proximate the platform. The cover support post is configured to provide support for a cover extending over at least a portion of the platform. There is also at least one side wall between the platform and the cover to provide a partially closed elevated amusement space in the amusement park equipment.

Description

[0001] This document claims priority to AU2023900928, filed on April 1, 2204, entitled: A playground device with a skybridge, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] The present invention relates to a playground equipment. In particular, the present invention relates to a playground equipment with an elevated play space. Background Art

[0003] Elevated play spaces are a component of many playground equipment structures. They are designed to provide children with opportunities to play and climb at heights, providing a fun and challenging experience. Elevated play spaces often include elements such as climbing poles, balancing beams, and other climbing features. Elevated play spaces may also include platforms.

[0004] These platforms are usually raised above the ground, providing children with a different perspective and a more challenging play experience. Platform play structures can come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from simple raised platforms to more complex designs with multiple levels, bridges, and slides. These structures can also include climbing elements such as ladders or ropes to reach the elevated platforms. As with all playground structures, it is vital to ensure that these structures are built and maintained with adequate safety measures to prevent injuries or accidents.

[0005] Currently, the amusement industry does not provide adequate safety measures for elevated play spaces, increasing the potential for injury or even death. Some elevated play structures located near climbing poles can pose a risk of head entrapment if overlapping poles are too close to each other. In addition, the mounting methods used for some elevated platform structures often involve straps that form large holes in the sides of the platform, creating additional risk of injury. Despite the risks, the amusement industry is keen to integrate elevated play spaces into their facilities because children enjoy the feeling of adventure and challenge. Climbing, balancing, sitting / lying and / or moving at different heights can also provide a unique and exciting experience compared to ground-based play.

[0006] The present invention seeks to provide a playground equipment having an elevated play space which overcomes at least some of the problems of the prior art or which at least provides a useful alternative. Summary of the invention

[0007] In a first aspect, there is provided playground equipment comprising a frame structure, wherein the frame structure comprises:

[0008] at least one elevated platform formed of a soft, pliable material supported by a frame structure around at least a portion of its periphery;

[0009] a cover support column associated with the frame structure and located adjacent the platform, the cover support column being configured to provide support for a cover extending over at least a portion of the platform; and

[0010] At least one side wall is between the platform and the cover to provide a partially enclosed elevated play space in the playground equipment.

[0011] The playground equipment may be a climbing structure. The frame structure of the playground equipment includes upright support columns and horizontal rods. In an embodiment, there are a plurality of upright support columns and a plurality of horizontal rods. There may be any number of columns and horizontal rods. The horizontal rods are arranged relative to the columns. By relative to the support columns, this may mean that the horizontal rods are attached to the support columns so as to provide a frame arrangement.

[0012] The upright support columns are usually substantially vertical. The horizontal bars are usually substantially horizontal. Any set of columns or horizontal bars can be oriented at any angle that deviates from vertical or horizontal. For the horizontal bars in a climbing frame or climbing bar device, the arrangement can be any arrangement as long as the user can grab them with their hands or legs, swing and / or rotate their body or climb. The frame structure can include a main frame structure. When viewed from above, the main frame structure can include four upright columns arranged in a square or rectangular configuration. The structure resembles an open cube.

[0013] The upright support columns are rigid structures once formed, which means that they do not move in use. Rigidity is provided by the solid material of the support columns. Rigid columns are also immobile, which means that they do not move in use. Additional upright columns may be present to provide a more complex frame structure within the main frame structure. Horizontal bars may be arranged relative to the upright columns, such as being arranged around and between the upright columns. Horizontal bars may be attached to the upright columns. Horizontal bars may be adjustably attached to the columns. Any configuration of the horizontal bars may be designed to provide stimulation, beauty, function and / or form. Playground equipment may include one or more ladders for climbing to the top of the frame and / or one or more ladders arranged substantially horizontally (or deviating from the horizontal) relative to the frame, and users may use ladder "monkey-style" swings. Playground equipment may also include accessories, such as trampolines, net bags, swings, slides or any other desired playground accessories.

[0014] The upright support posts can be made of any material such as plastic or metal. The posts can be tubes. The posts can be any cross-sectional shape. In one embodiment, the posts are tubular. In one embodiment, the posts are hollow. The posts can be smooth and easy to grip. The posts can include kinks to provide an aesthetically pleasing, unusual, or interesting frame.

[0015] The horizontal bar can be made of a strong cable, wire, rope, plastic or metal. The bar can be a tube or a column. The horizontal bar can be of any cross-sectional shape. In one embodiment, the horizontal bar is tubular. In one embodiment, the horizontal bar is hollow. The diameter of the horizontal bar can be the same as the diameter of the support column and narrower than the diameter of the support column. The size of the horizontal bar can be designed to be smooth and easy to grip. The horizontal bar can include a kink to provide an aesthetically pleasing, unusual or interesting climbing bar frame. The upright support column and the horizontal bar can be the same component used in different orientations.

[0016] The upright support columns and horizontal rods are attached to each other to form a frame. The columns or rods can be connected to each other by welding or other permanent joining techniques. Alternatively, at least some of the connections between the columns (column to column or column to rod) can be through connectors such as hinge joint connectors. The hinge joint connector can allow articulation around the joint. Therefore, during the formation of the frame structure, the connection between the columns can be set at any angle. Other connectors or couplings can be used as needed.

[0017] The platform within the frame structure may be of any shape including square, circular, rectangular, triangular. The frame may be designed to enclose at least a portion of the edges of the platform. The platform may be connected to the frame at all of its edges. If the platform is circular, the platform may be connected around all or nearly all of its edges. When the platform is quadrilateral, the platform may be connected to the frame along all of its edges or, for example, only along three of its edges. Alternatively, the platform may be connected to the frame along a pair of edges disposed opposite each other.

[0018] The platform can be arranged in a frame structure so as to be elevated from the ground. Elevated generally refers to any play space or structure that is located above the ground or that elevates the play level of children to above the ground. The specific height at which a play structure is considered to be elevated can vary. However, generally, if the play structure elevates the play level of children to a height that requires them to climb to the play space, the play structure is considered to be elevated. It is possible to climb into the play space by using a frame or using a ladder. In certain embodiments, the elevated play space is at least higher than the height of an average child. An average child of about 6 years old is about 107 to 117 cm, so the play space can be higher than this. An average child of about 10 years old is about 127 to 145 cm, so the play space can be higher than this. In one embodiment, the platform is arranged at a height of at least or at most about 1.8 m to at least about 2.4 m from the ground. The level of the platform is measured from the platform surface.

[0019] The platform can be substantially horizontal. In some embodiments, the platform can deviate from the horizontal. The frame structure of the play space can be shaped to support the corresponding angled platform. However, as a closed play space, this will not be very comfortable. In some embodiments, the platform has a horizontal portion and an angled portion.

[0020] The platform can be made of ropes that are tensioned through a frame structure at close intervals to simulate a floor. The platform can be a solid material. In one embodiment, the platform is made of plastic. Plastic is durable and lightweight and can withstand the wear and tear of daily use. The plastic platform can be of various shapes and sizes and can be designed to fit a range of different play structures. The plastic of the platform can be molded into complex shapes and patterns and can be colored to create an exciting and visually appealing play experience. In addition, plastic is a relatively low maintenance material that can withstand exposure to harsh weather without corroding or degrading over time.

[0021] Alternatively, the platform is made of material. The material from which the platform is made can be a type of fabric material such as canvas, polyester, nylon, or PVC coated polyester. These materials are commonly used to make tents, tarps, and other outdoor equipment, and are known for their durability, strength, and resistance to bad weather. Canvas is a strong cotton or linen fabric that is naturally breathable and waterproof. Polyester is a lightweight, strong, stretch-resistant and shrink-resistant synthetic material. Nylon is another synthetic material known for its high strength-to-weight ratio and excellent wear resistance. PVC coated polyester is a polyester fabric that has been coated with polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which provides additional strength, water resistance, and resistance to UV radiation. The platform can be a waterproof or water-resistant coating or laminate to help protect it from moisture and bad weather. In one embodiment, the platform is reinforced. The reinforcement can be a belt. For example, the belt can be a 50mm wide PP belt to create a more stable surface.

[0022] The platform can be made of flexible materials. Platforms made of flexible materials can provide children with unique and exciting play experiences. Unlike solid platforms, flexible platforms can bend and wiggle in response to children's movements, creating dynamic and interactive play spaces that can challenge children's balance, coordination, and motor skills. In addition, flexible platforms can add an element of unpredictability and adventure to play. Children can feel thrilled and excited as they explore the platform, not knowing how the platform will respond to their movements. This can encourage children to take risks, try different movements and postures, and develop their self-confidence and resilience. In some cases, flexible platforms can also provide children with tactile and sensory experiences. The texture and feel of flexible materials can be interesting and engaging, providing a sensory-rich environment that can stimulate children's imagination and creativity.

[0023] The fabric platform can be removably attached to the frame using a strong and durable material. By being removable, the user can change the position of the platform when needed. In one embodiment, loops can be sewn onto the edges of the platform material. These loops can be passed through the frame elements during manufacturing. Alternatively, hook and loop fasteners, ties, or other fasteners can be used to secure the platform to the frame. There can be holes in the platform material into which fasteners can be inserted and then secured to the frame. The holes can be reinforced with metal, for example.

[0024] In a preferred embodiment, a strong hook-and-loop fastener can be used. Strips of hook-and-loop fastener material can be sewn to the edge of the platform to engage with the frame. The hook-and-loop fastener can be wrapped around the rod of the frame and then firmly attached to itself. The hook-and-loop fastener can be a type with two or three overlapping parts. When there are three overlapping parts, the middle part can be wrapped around the frame element, the first outer part is wrapped from one side and engaged with the part, and the second outer part is wrapped from the other direction and engaged with the outer surface of the first outer part. The result is a very strong connection that is unlikely to loosen during use. The advantage of this hook-and-loop fastener is that the gap between the edge of the platform and the frame is minimized, which reduces any tendency of children to catch hair, fingers and / or loose clothing. The strips of fastener material can be designed to withstand the stress of outdoor use and exposure to bad weather. Another advantage of using a hook-and-loop fastener system is that it can allow a certain flexibility and movement of the platform while still maintaining a firm connection with the frame. This is particularly useful in a play environment where children may be climbing because the fastener can absorb some of the impact and stress of these activities.

[0025] The hook-and-loop fasteners can be arranged along substantially the entire length of the edge of the platform so that there is no gap between the platform and the frame. Alternatively, the hook-and-loop fasteners are arranged partially along the edge of the platform. The total amount of the edge with fasteners can be greater than the total amount of the edge without fasteners. The spacing between the fastener portions can be less than the width of the fastener portions themselves. In one or more embodiments, the width of the fastener material is at least about 7.5, 8, 10, 12 or 14 cm. In an embodiment, the spacing between each fastener is less than the width of the fastener. Different types of fasteners can exist along different edges.

[0026] In an embodiment, the fasteners are evenly spaced. The fasteners may be spaced so that they create a gap in the range of about 160 mm to 250 mm, such as 180 mm to 230 mm. In an embodiment, the gap between the fasteners is no greater than about 160 mm, 180 mm, 200 mm, 210 mm, 230 mm, or 250 mm.

[0027] Cover support columns can be integrated into the overall frame structure of the play space in a variety of ways, depending on the specific design of the structure. In some cases, the columns can be attached directly to the frame using brackets or other hardware, while in other cases, the cover support columns can be the top portion of the upright support columns. In some embodiments, the cover support columns are the top portion of the upright columns that form the play structure. The arrangement and spacing of the cover support columns will depend on the size and shape of the play structure and the weight and tension of the cover. The columns can be evenly spaced around the perimeter of the structure, or they can be clustered in certain areas to provide additional support or stability.

[0028] The cover can be formed of the same material as the platform. Alternatively, the cover is formed of a different material. The cover can be a sunshade, which is a tightly woven mesh material designed to block a portion of the sun's rays while still allowing air and moisture to pass through. The sunshade can be available in a variety of colors and patterns and is commonly used to create a cool and comfortable play space for children on hot days. The cover can be a tarp, which is a sturdy, waterproof material commonly used to cover outdoor items or protect them from the effects of bad weather. In some embodiments, a more sophisticated cover can be used on the play structure, such as a fabric canopy or tent-like structure designed to provide a sheltered or enclosed space for children to play. These types of covers can be available in a variety of shapes and sizes and can be designed to match the overall aesthetics or theme of the play equipment. The cover can be a desired window or opening. The cover can be a waterproof or water-resistant coating or laminate to help protect it from moisture and bad weather.

[0029] The cover can be arranged substantially horizontally in the frame structure. The horizontal cover and the horizontal platform can form two substantially coplanar layers of fabric. The cover can be arranged at other angles as required.

[0030] When a cover is placed over a fabric platform, it creates an additional layer of fabric. This means there are now two layers of fabric in the play structure - the fabric platform itself and the cover that has been placed over the fabric platform. The cover can be over the entire platform. The cover can be over a portion of the platform. The cover can cover more area than the platform.

[0031] The side walls of the space between the platform and the cover may be solid. The side walls may be open or openable. In one embodiment, the side walls of the enclosed elevated play space may be made of mesh. The mesh provides a lightweight and breathable option for the walls. The mesh walls may be made of a variety of materials such as nylon, polyester, or vinyl-coated polyester, and are typically characterized by a grid-like pattern of holes or openings to allow airflow and visibility.

[0032] Net walls can be an attractive choice for play structures in warm or humid climates because they allow for ventilation. Net walls can be a good choice for play structures designed for young children because they provide a degree of visibility and ventilation while still providing some protection and containment for the children inside. The specific type of net material used will depend on various factors, including the intended use of the play structure, the climate in which it will be used, and the overall design aesthetic of the structure. The net can be attached to the platform and / or frame by any means.

[0033] Each face of the proposed enclosed play space may include a separate wall. Alternatively, the wall may wrap around the upright support columns / cover support columns to enclose the play space. The enclosed space may be designed to have only one entry point and exit point. Alternatively, there may be more than one entry point and more than one exit point. In one embodiment, the only entrance and exit of the enclosed space passes through or adjacent to the cover or through the platform. In this embodiment, the net wall surrounds the entire enclosed space.

[0034] The present arrangement provides an enclosed elevated play space having an enclosed or semi-enclosed structure, which in embodiments can provide a unique and exciting play experience for children. The enclosed structure is typically characterized by a roof in the form of a wall, a cover, and a floor in the form of a platform elevated above ground level. The enclosed elevated play space can have a variety of shapes and sizes. One benefit of an enclosed elevated play space is that it can provide a sense of privacy and a leisurely play area for children. This can encourage children to participate in imaginative and creative play scenarios without feeling exposed or uncomfortable. The enclosed structure can also provide a sense of security and safety, making it easier for parents and caregivers to monitor children. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0035] Embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are not drawn to scale and are merely exemplary, and in which:

[0036] Figures 1 to 3 is a perspective view of an embodiment of playground equipment having an enclosed elevated play space.

[0037] Figure 4 It is a photo of the enclosed elevated play space.

[0038] Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 is a close-up view of the platform attached to the frame structure.

[0039] Figure 8 This is an embodiment without a top cover.

[0040] Fig. 9 and Fig.10An embodiment of playground equipment having a front opening is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0041] Figure 1 An elevated enclosure 10 is shown at the top of the playground equipment. A platform 22 is shown attached to a frame structure 24 around its peripheral edge. There is a cover 14 and a net wall 20. An entry point 12 is formed by an opening in the net wall 20. Cover support columns 16, which in this embodiment are extensions of upright columns 18, support the cover 14. In this embodiment, the cover support columns 16 are separate components from the upright columns 18. In other embodiments, 16, 18 may be one continuous component. Figure 8 The device is shown before the cover is added.

[0042] exist Figure 2 In the embodiment, the entrance 12 is provided by an open end 12' or 12". A user of the device can climb the net bag to enter the opening 12'. A user can climb the rope to enter the opening 12". Figure 3 In the embodiment, the line of sight enters the open end 12' and down into the rear of the closed mesh wall 20. Fig. 9 and Fig.10 In the embodiment, the opening is located at the front of the playground equipment. Many variations of the openings and closures are possible within the spirit and scope. Figure 3 The enclosed space 10 in the play area is an interesting place for children to crawl into and play.

[0043] exist Figure 3 In the embodiment of the present invention, the climbing pole 26 is shown as being arranged just below the frame structure 24 forming the enclosure 10. It may be important in the design that the pole 24 for the enclosure is spaced apart from the climbing pole 26 both vertically and horizontally to reduce any possibility of a child's head being trapped therebetween. Figure 4 and Figure 5 is a photograph of an embodiment of an enclosure of an elevated play area.

[0044] exist Figure 4 2, hook and loop fasteners can be seen in this view, some of which are connected during assembly and some of which are disconnected. In this embodiment, the platform 22 is attached to the frame 24 along all four sides. As can be seen from the closest side in the view, the length of the edge of the platform 22 with fasteners can be longer than the length without fasteners. In an embodiment, at least about 75%, 80%, 85%, or 90% of the length of the edge intended to engage with the frame includes fastener material.

[0045] Figure 5 and Figure 6 A close-up of the Velcro hook and loop fasteners. Figure 7 , the various layers of the fastener are shown.

[0046] It should be understood that, if any prior art publication is referred to herein, this reference does not constitute an admission that the publication forms part of the common general knowledge in the art, in Australia or any other country.

[0047] In the following claims and the foregoing description of the invention, unless the context requires otherwise due to the express language or necessary meaning, the word "comprise" or variations such as "include" or "contain" are used in an inclusive sense, i.e. to specify the presence of stated features in various embodiments of the invention, but not to exclude the presence or addition of other features.

[0048] Any commitments made in this description should be understood to relate to some embodiments of the invention and are not intended to be commitments made with respect to the invention. Where there are commitments that are considered to apply to all embodiments of the invention, the right is reserved to later delete those commitments from the description, as they are not intended to be relied upon for acceptance or subsequent issuance of a patent unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

Claims

1. A playground equipment, comprising a frame structure, wherein the frame structure comprises: at least one elevated platform, said platform being supported by said frame structure around at least a portion of its periphery; a cover support column associated with the frame structure and located adjacent the platform, the cover support column being configured to provide support for a cover extending over at least a portion of the platform; as well as At least one side wall is between the platform and the cover to provide a partially enclosed elevated play space in the playground equipment.

2. The playground equipment of claim 1, wherein the platform is formed of a flexible material.

3. Playground equipment according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the platform has four sides.

4. Playground equipment according to claim 3, wherein the platform is supported along all four sides.

5. Playground equipment according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the platform is attached to the frame structure by hook and loop fasteners.

6. The platform apparatus, wherein the hook and loop fastener is of the type comprising three overlapping portions.

7. Playground equipment as claimed in claim 5 or 6, wherein one side of the platform comprises more hook and loop fasteners than no fasteners.

8. Playground equipment according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the fasteners are spaced apart such that no gap greater than about 160 mm is created between the fasteners.

9. Playground equipment according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the width of each fastener is at least about 7.5 mm.

10. Playground equipment as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the frame structure comprises upright support columns having one end on the ground and another end at or towards the top of the frame, and the cover support columns are top portions of the upright support columns.

11. Playground equipment as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cover and the platform provide two substantially co-planar fabric layers in the playground equipment and the enclosed elevated play space is provided between the two substantially co-planar fabric layers.

12. Playground equipment as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one side wall comprises a mesh wall surrounding substantially all of the enclosed play space.

13. A kit comprising components for forming playground equipment according to any one of the preceding claims and associated instructions on how to assemble the components to form the playground equipment.

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