Portable rebound device with force adjustment assembly

Abstract

A rebound device includes a front member, a rear member, and a spring mechanism including a first biasing element and a force adjustment assembly. The force adjustment assembly includes: a spring element including a front flat surface and a rear flat surface connected at a rounded portion, where the front flat surface contacts an inner surface of the front member; a screw housing secured to an inner surface of the rear member, where the screw housing includes a longitudinal channel and a bore on an upper surface; a drive screw, the drive screw passing through the bore and positioned along the longitudinal channel of the screw housing; and a threaded block positioned within the longitudinal channel of the screw housing, where the threaded block is configured to move vertically along the longitudinal channel, and where the rear flat surface of the spring element is secured to the threaded block.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the patent application for invention with the application date of September 29, 2021, application number 202180074052.1, and invention title "Portable Rebound Device with Force Adjustment Assembly".

[0002] Cross - reference to related applications

[0003] This application includes an international PCT application claiming the benefit of priority of U.S. Provisional Application 63 / 084,947, filed on September 29, 2020, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical field

[0004] This subject matter generally relates to a portable rebound device. More specifically, the present invention relates to a rebound device for use against a stationary surface to facilitate a rebounding motion, the rebound device including a mechanism for adjusting the force of the rebounding motion. Background art

[0005] Rocking is a familiar part of human daily life. For centuries, many proven benefits of rocking have been identified, and modern medicine has discovered new motivations and more reasons for rocking. One of the best - known uses of rocking is to soothe infants. Gentle bouncing motions mimic the movements felt by an infant in the mother's womb and can calm the baby, assist in getting the child to sleep or while feeding, and reduce crying during colic episodes. Rhythmic motion also helps build a better bond between parent and child and aids in the growth of a newborn by stimulating both motor development and sensory development.

[0006] For those who live otherwise sedentary lifestyles or for those with restricted body movement (including many elderly, injured or chronically ill individuals, or those who sit for long periods), rocking for personal benefit is a safe activity and option. The act of rocking has proven benefits such as relieving 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 medications.

[0007] Research has shown that rocking can promote mental health for those suffering from dementia, anxiety, and depression due to the mood - enhancing endorphins released. Other studies have shown that the benefits of rocking can provide comfort and increase positive treatment for anxiety, attention - deficit disorder, attention - deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and autism. For example, studies of patients with ADHD have shown that rocking movements (such as their intensity and frequency) are related to the accuracy of cognitive demand tasks that require sufficient attention. Research has also shown that vestibular rehabilitation therapies (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 in those experiencing physical limitations (such as the elderly and those with mobility restrictions or physical disabilities). Health experts recommend some form of movement when sitting or lying for long periods 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.

[0008] Rocking can also improve pain management by calming the parasympathetic nervous system. It also improves cognitive processes by soothing the brain and promoting the concentration of logical thinking abilities.

[0009] However, without an external device (such as a rocking chair) to assist with the repetitive movement, sustained rocking cannot be comfortably performed in a sitting position for long periods, not even for short durations, let alone for hours on end. Without assistance, long - term continuous rocking movements 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 devices when and where rocking assistance is most needed. The use of traditional rocking furniture is restricted because it cannot be easily moved from one room to another or accompany the user during travel.

[0010] In addition, traditional rocking solutions require a large amount of floor space and are therefore not suitable for use in small rooms and may be difficult to store when not in use. While some hospitals and nurseries provide 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 bassinets, bouncers, or cradles, but in these options, the baby is separated from the caregiver, limiting the ability to hold, feed, or easily nurse the baby while rocking.

[0011] In addition, traditional rocking solutions cannot be combined with other existing furniture such as sofas or beds, so when users need to rock to hold and nurse a baby or calm it down, this kind of furniture cannot be used. Especially at night, many mothers like to sit upright in bed to breastfeed, but they have to choose between the comfort of the bed and the functionality of rocking furniture because nothing can combine the two.

[0012] Traditional rocking solutions also have the problem of lacking adaptability to the users of the furniture. For example, a rocking chair may be very comfortable for adult use, but it may be too strenuous for the elderly, people recovering from surgery, those with limited mobility, people with physical disabilities, etc. The force required to produce a complete backward and forward cycle on a rocking chair or a reclining rocking chair can be easily provided by the backward tilt of a larger and heavier body, while smaller-sized people, those with underlying medical conditions, and / or the elderly may need to repeatedly push their legs off the ground to generate movement. For traditional rocking chairs and reclining rocking chairs, it is difficult to achieve partial rocking cycles or more delicate movements when the user or child may prefer a gentle rebounding rhythm. The body size, shape, and condition of the user, as well as the user's personal preferences, will affect the amount or magnitude of the force required when using rocking furniture, and traditional rocking furniture cannot meet the different needs of multiple users.

[0013] Finally, traditional rocking solutions are not adjustable to accommodate different users with different body sizes, shapes, and rocking needs. For example, a reclining rocking chair moves in response to the amount of force applied, and a small person with a lighter weight may not be able to generate enough rocking force, while a large person with a heavier weight may have no problem generating the rocking force. The elderly may need to use an even lighter weight to generate a rocking motion. Therefore, a rocking device may not be able to provide a suitable rocking force for various body sizes and builds.

[0014] Therefore, there is a need for a portable compressible rebounding device for generating a rocking motion in a sitting position, which is adjustable to accommodate the needs of different users as described herein. Summary of the Invention

[0015] To meet the above and other needs, the present disclosure provides a resilient device that includes an adjustable spring mechanism to accommodate the needs of users with different body sizes, shapes, and requirements. The resilient device described herein includes a front member and a rear member, and a spring mechanism is disposed between the front member and the rear member. The spring mechanism includes a force adjustment assembly. During use, the user positions the rear member of the resilient device against a stationary object such as a chair or a wall. The user presses their back against the front member and applies pressure to create a gentle rocking motion. The resilient device applies a biasing force when compressed, which gently pushes the upper body of the user forward while maintaining a sitting position. The biasing force is partially determined by the setting of the adjustable mechanism.

[0016] In one embodiment, the resilient device includes a front member, a rear member, and a spring mechanism positioned between the front member and the rear member. The spring mechanism includes a first elongated spring element and a second elongated spring element, and each spring element includes a front flat surface and a rear flat surface that are integral with a circular portion. Each spring element functions as a leaf spring, wherein the front flat surface and the rear flat surface move towards and away from each other about the circular portion.

[0017] Each of the front flat surfaces of each spring element is twisted inwards towards the rear flat surface, thereby forming a curvature for receiving the back of the user. The front member is fixed to the front flat surface of the spring element and includes a curvature complementary to the curvature of the front flat surface. The rear member is fixed to the rear flat surface of the spring element. During use, the user's back comfortably rests against the curved front member and the angled front flat surface, while the rear member and the rear flat portion rest against a fixed surface.

[0018] The force adjustment assembly includes a third spring element, similar to the first and second spring elements, that functions as a leaf spring and has a front flat surface and a rear flat surface that move towards 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.

[0019] 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 screws or other attachment mechanisms, or may be integrally formed with the spring element.

[0020] The drive screw extends through the screw housing cover (which is mounted to the screw housing) and through a hole in the screw housing cover such that the shaft of the drive screw extends into the channel. The drive screw is held in place by bearings at opposite ends of the screw. By rotating a knob attached to the upper end of the drive screw outside the screw housing, the user can cause the screw to rotate within the channel of the screw housing.

[0021] Within the channel, the shaft of the drive screw extends through a threaded hole within the threaded block such that rotation of the drive screw causes the threaded block to move vertically within the channel. The user manually turns the knob attached to the drive screw to adjust the positioning of the threaded block within the channel, and thereby also causes the rear flat surface of the third threaded element to move vertically along the channel.

[0022] The positioning of the spring element of the force adjustment assembly modifies the resilience or biasing force provided by the resilient means. For example, in one exemplary embodiment, the first and second spring elements alone provide resilient forces of approximately 25 pounds and approximately 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 resilient force to between 30 pounds and 60 pounds. In other embodiments, the spring mechanism 106 may provide smaller or larger minimum, maximum, and / or ranges of resilient force with and without the force adjustment assembly.

[0023] Referring to the embodiments shown herein, when the third spring element of the adjustable mechanism is positioned at the lowest position adjacent to the circular portions of the first and second spring elements, the increased resilient force is at a minimum. As the third spring element is gradually moved upward to the highest position, the amount of additional resilient force gradually increases. The user can adjust the biasing force using small incremental changes to increase or decrease the number of pounds of biasing force provided by the device. When the third spring element of the adjustable mechanism is positioned at the highest position distal to the circular portions of the first and second spring elements, the increased resilient force is at a maximum. The device can provide a biasing force that falls within a range of approximately 30 pounds and 60 pounds, and the adjustable mechanism enables the user to select the precise force that is suitable for the particular build, body type, and condition of the body using the device.

[0024] In one embodiment, the front and rear members include front and rear flexible materials extending between pairs of front and rear flat surfaces of first and second spring elements, respectively. The front and rear flexible materials are tightly stretched between the front and rear flat portions of the front and rear pairs of the first and second members, such that pressure applied to the materials urges the front flat portions to move towards the corresponding rear flat portions. A foam padding or other thick material may be secured to each of the front and rear members and / or the flexible materials.

[0025] One object of the present invention is to provide a solution for adjusting the intensity of the bouncing motion provided by a rebounding device and maintaining a smooth bouncing motion across the entire available intensity range.

[0026] Another object of the present invention is to provide a solution such that a single rebounding device can be used by a number of people having different body sizes, builds, and rebounding motion requirements.

[0027] Another advantage of the present invention is that it enables a single rebounding device to be used in a variety of environments ranging from childcare to elderly care.

[0028] One advantage of the present invention is that it provides a portable rebounding device that is easily carried from one place to another, occupies very little space, and can be easily stored when not in use.

[0029] Another advantage of the present invention is that it can be used with almost any existing furniture or support surface; thereby allowing a user to continuously rock while holding a baby anywhere on a support surface they find comfortable.

[0030] Another advantage of the present invention is that it provides a solution for the need for a rocking motion that is much cheaper than traditional rocking solutions.

[0031] Additional objects, advantages, and novel features of the examples will be set forth in part in the description that follows, and in part will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon examination of the following description and the drawings, or may be learned by practice of the examples. The objectives and advantages of the concepts may be realized and attained by means of the methods, instrumentalities, and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0032] One or more implementations in accordance with the present concept are depicted by way of example only and not by way of limitation. In the drawings, like reference numerals represent like or similar elements.

[0033] Figure 1Is a front perspective view of a resilient device including a force adjustment assembly of the present application, showing the outer housing.

[0034] Figure 2 Is Figure 1 A side elevation view of the resilient device.

[0035] Figure 3 Is Figure 1 A top plan view of the front flat surface of the spring element of the resilient device.

[0036] Figures 4 to 6 Shows Figure 1 The resilient device of in the decompressed position, partially compressed position, and compressed position respectively.

[0037] Figure 7 Is Figure 1 A front perspective view of the internal components of the resilient device having a force adjustment assembly.

[0038] Figure 8 Is Figure 1 A front elevation view of the internal components of the resilient device.

[0039] Figure 9 Is Figure 1 A rear elevation view of the internal components of the resilient device.

[0040] Figure 10 Is Figure 1 A top plan view of the internal components of the resilient device.

[0041] Figure 11 Is Figure 1 A bottom plan view of the internal components of the resilient device.

[0042] Figure 12 Is Figure 1 A front elevation view of the first and second spring elements of the resilient device.

[0043] Figure 13 Is Figure 1 A plan view of the first and second spring elements of the resilient device.

[0044] Figure 14 Is Figure 1 A bottom plan view of the first and second spring elements of the resilient device.

[0045] Figure 15 Is Figure 1 A perspective view of the force adjustment assembly of the resilient device.

[0046] Figure 16 Is Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of the force adjustment assembly of the resilient device.

[0047] Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A of the force adjustment assembly of the resilient device generally along Figure 15 in Figure 1 .

[0048] Figures 18 to 21 is Figure 1 the front perspective view, rear perspective view, front elevation view and side elevation view of the screw housing of the force adjustment assembly of the resilient device of

[0049] Figure 22 is Figure 1 the perspective view of the threaded block of the force adjustment assembly of the resilient device of

[0050] Figure 23 is Figure 1 the perspective view of the guide rail of the force adjustment assembly of the resilient device of DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0051] Figures 1 to 23 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a resilient device 100. As Figure 1 and Figure 7 shown, 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.

[0052] As Figures 5 to 7 shown, during use, the rear member 104 abuts against a solid surface. The user positions his or her back against the front member 102 and applies pressure to create a gentle rocking motion. The user positions the resilient device 100 between his or her back and a support surface (such as the headboard of a bed, the backrest of a sofa, an airplane seat, or a wall). The resilient device 100, when compressed, applies a biasing force through the spring mechanism 106 that pushes the upper body of the user forward while maintaining a sitting position. The combination of the biasing force of the resilient device 100 overcoming the weight of the user creates a momentum that allows for continuous bouncing while rocking a baby or oneself for personal relaxation, movement, or comfort, without much effort for several hours. The illustrated spring mechanism 106 of the resilient device 100 includes a force adjustment assembly 114 that enables the user to adjust the amount of resilient force provided by the device 100, as described in more detail below.

[0053] Figures 7 to 23 illustrates the internal components of the resilient device 100. In Figure 7 , Figure 10 and Figure 11As can be seen most clearly, the front member 102 has a concave bending portion 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.

[0054] Figures 12 to 14 The bending portions of the spring elements 110, 112 are shown. Each of the first and second spring elements 110, 112 has an elongated shape that includes a length L and a width W, where the length L is greater than the width W, and the elongated shape extends between a front end portion 110a, 112a and a rear end portion 110b, 112b. Each elongated spring element 110, 112 is bent about an axis C L1 The axis C L1 is parallel to the width of each spring element 110, 112 along the rear end portion 110b, 112b and is spaced from the midpoint along the length L, such that the length L of the spring elements 110, 112 is divided into a front flat surface 110c, 112c and a rear flat surface 110d, 112d by a circular portion 110e, 112e. When in the rest position, the front flat surfaces 110c, 112c and the rear flat surfaces 110d, 112d are adjacent to each other but extend at a slightly angled deviation from each other. The circular portions 110e, 112e serve as spring leaf mechanisms that enable the rebounding device 100 to provide a rebounding motion.

[0055] As Figure 12 and Figure 13 best seen, the front ends 110a, 112a of each front flat surface 110c, 112c are distorted relative to the junctions 110f, 112f where the front flat surfaces 110c, 112c intersect the circular portions 110e, 112e. As Figure 13 shown, each inner edge 110g, 112g of each front end 110a, 112a is distorted inwardly towards the corresponding rear flat surface to form a bracket for receiving the user's back. Each outer edge 110j, 112j of each front end 110a, 112a is distorted outwardly away from the corresponding rear flat surface to further form a bracket.

[0056] In Figure 7 shown, the rear flat surfaces 110d, 112d of each spring element 110, 112 are flat and coplanar with each other to exert a uniformly distributed pressure on a fixed surface. During use, the user's back comfortably rests against the front member 102 and the angled front flat surfaces 110c, 112c, while the rear flat surfaces 110d, 112d rest against a fixed surface.

[0057] In one embodiment, each of the elongate spring elements 110, 112 can have a width W in the range of about 1.5 inches and about 2.5 inches, but the width can vary as needed and can vary along the entire length L. Each spring element 110, 112 can also have a thickness T in the range of about 0.125 inches and about 0.25 inches, and the thickness T is formed by 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, and the values of the width W and the thickness T at the circular portions 110e, 112e are smaller than the values 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 needed.

[0058] The first and second spring elements 110, 112 can be constructed of any material that provides sufficient elasticity to effect repeated resilient movement while being sufficiently rigid to structurally support a person's weight. Example metallic materials include: aluminum, preferably but not necessarily an aluminum alloy having a T6 temper such as 6061T6; steel, and steel alloys such as AISI 5160. The device can also be made of plastics (such as polyvinyl chloride), carbon fiber composites, or wood materials.

[0059] Reference Figure 7 and Figures 15 to 23 FIGS., the spring mechanism 106 of the illustrated embodiment further includes a force adjustment assembly 114 that is positioned between the first and second spring elements 110, 112 at the midpoint along the width of the front and rear members 102, 104. The force adjustment assembly 114 includes a third spring element 116 that is similar to the first and second spring elements 110, 112. The third spring element 116 has an elongate shape that includes a length L and a width W, the length L being greater than the width W, and the elongate shape extending between a front end portion 116a and a rear end portion 116b. The length of the third spring element 116 is curved about an axis C parallel to as Figure 7 shown in L2 C L2 and is spaced from the midpoint along the length L such that the length L of the third spring element 116 is divided into a front flat surface 116c and a rear flat surface 116d by a circular portion 116e. When in the rest position, the front flat surface 116c and the rear flat surface 116d are adjacent to each other but extend slightly angularly away from each other.

[0060] The circular portion 116e of the third spring element 116 serves as an additional leaf spring mechanism that provides additional resilience to the resilience 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 force exerted by the first and second spring elements 110, 112.

[0061] 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.

[0062] In one embodiment, the first and second spring elements 110, 112 alone provide a resilience of approximately 27 pounds and 30 pounds. When the third spring element 116 is in the lowest position and the highest position respectively, the addition of the third spring element 116 of the force adjustment assembly 114 increases the resilience to between 30 pounds and 60 pounds.

[0063] 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 because a large amount of force is required to engage the third spring element 116. At the central axis C of the circular portion 116e of the third spring element 116 L2 and the central axes C of the circular portions 110e, 112e of the first and second spring elements 110, 112 L1 being aligned, the third spring element 116 is the most difficult to reach. The least amount of additional resilience is provided in this position.

[0064] As the third spring element 116 is gradually moved 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. When the central axis C of the circular portion 116e of the third spring element 116 L2 and the central axes C of the circular portions 110e, 112e of the first and second spring elements 110, 112 L1 are most deviated, the circular portion 116e of the third spring element 116 can provide the maximum amount of additional resilience.

[0065] The user can adjust the biasing force using small incremental changes to increase or decrease the number of pounds of the biasing force provided by the force adjustment assembly 114. The force adjustment assembly 114 enables the user to use the device to select the precise force suitable for the specific body build, body type, and condition of the body.

[0066] In other embodiments, the spring mechanism 106 can include first and second adjustable mechanisms on the first and second spring elements 110, 112, with or without the force adjustment assembly 114. Each of the first and second spring elements can include, for example, an adjustable torsion spring having a preloaded setting attached to a rotatable knob. In some embodiments, the adjustable torsion spring is fixed to the elongated elements 110, 112 by a frame mounted thereto. In other embodiments, the adjustable torsion spring is provided in place of the elongated elements 110, 112 and is fixed to the front and rear members 102, 104.

[0067] As Figure 15 shown, adjustment of the biasing force on the force adjustment assembly 114 is provided by moving the rear flat surface 116d of the third spring element 116 along a longitudinal channel 118a within a 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 fixed to the inner surface 102a of the front member 102 for receiving the front flat surface 116c of the third spring element 116.

[0068] Referring Figures 18 to 21 to, the screw housing 118 has a longitudinal shape extending between an upper base 118b and a 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 can be used as needed or required due to manufacturing needs.

[0069] Referring Figure 16 to, a screw housing cover 122 is fixed to a corresponding formed platform 118d on 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.

[0070] As Figure 16 and Figure 17 shown, a drive screw 124 is positioned within the hole 122a and extends into the longitudinal channel 118a. The positioning of the drive screw 124 within the screw housing 118 is fixed by bearings 126a, 126b at opposite ends of the drive screw 124. A threaded screw 128 connects the knob 130 to the upper end 124 of the drive screw 124 above the screw housing cover 122.

[0071] As Figure 16 and Figure 22As shown, the threaded block 132 includes: an inner portion 132a positioned within the longitudinal channel 118a of the screw housing 118; and an outer portion 132b 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 approximately 120 mm and approximately 123 mm, and the height of the inner portion 132a of the threaded block 132 is approximately 25 mm. In other embodiments, the dimensions may vary as needed or desired. The cover element may be fixed on 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. The rotation of the drive screw 124 within the channel 118 causes the threaded block 132 to move along the shaft 124a of the drive screw 124.

[0072] The outer portion 132b is positioned outside the longitudinal channel 118a of the screw housing 118. The outer portion 132b is integrally formed with the inner portion 132a such 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 may be fixed to the threaded block 132 via screws, adhesives, or other attachment mechanisms, or may be integrally formed 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.

[0073] As Figure 16 shown in the embodiment shown, the screw housing 118 may include a notch or marking 118g along the outer surface 118h near the longitudinal channel 118a such that a user can easily reference the positioning of the threaded block 132 along the channel 118a and note the notch 118a or positioning for future reference.

[0074] Figure 23Shows the base element 121a and the cover element 121b of the guide rail 121. 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, through which 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 such 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 fully up and down along the screw housing 118.

[0075] As Figures 4 to 6 shown, 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 presses their back against the front member 102 and applies pressure to create a gentle rocking motion, causing the resilient device 100 to move between the minimum compression position and the maximum compression position. The user can adjust the biasing force as needed by rotating the knob 132 of the force adjustment assembly 114. In Figure 4 this, the resilient device 100 is in the minimum compression position, and the front member 102 is farthest from the rear member 104. Figure 5 Shows the resilient device 100 in a partially compressed position, and the front member 102 is located in the middle of the rear member 104. Figure 6 Shows the resilient device 100 in the maximum compression position, and the front member 102 is closest to the rear member 104. The spring mechanism 106 applies a biasing force when compressed, which pushes the user's upper body forward while maintaining a sitting position.

[0076] As Figures 1 to 3As shown, 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 optionally be encapsulated within the housing material 107. The housing material 107 can extend around the entire resilient device 100, can be limited to enclose 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 alternative portion of the resilient device 100. The housing material 107 can be plastic (such as polyvinyl chloride), a carbon fiber composite material, a leather material, or any other suitable material. In some embodiments, the housing can also include multiple layers containing one or more of the following: cushioning material, rubber material, para-aramid synthetic fiber material (such as Kevlar); and a fabric or leather outer layer. In yet another embodiment, each of the front member 102 and the rear member 104 can include a fabric material that includes a tubular portion for receiving the front and rear flat portions of the spring elements. The fabric front member and the fabric rear member are sized tightly enough to support the weight and resilience of the user.

[0077] 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 made of metal (such as aluminum alloy), which is stamped, laser cut, water jet cut, or otherwise cut from a sheet of material and pressed into shape. In other embodiments, the resilient device 100 can include a wooden material formed by plastic molding. In additional embodiments, the resilient device 100 can be a polyvinyl chloride material that is molded (such as by injection molding). The materials and methods of manufacture can vary based on the manufacturing process or as needed.

[0078] In additional 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 a heavier user. The number, positioning, and location of the reinforcing elements can vary as needed or in some embodiments based on the user's preference. In some embodiments, the reinforcing spring elements added to the first, second, and third spring elements 110, 112, 116 and / or any part of the spring mechanism 106 can be adjustable.

[0079] 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 extending along the circular portions 110e, 112e of the spring elements 110, 112. In one embodiment, the reinforcing spring element is welded or otherwise fixed to the respective circular portions 110e, 112e. In other embodiments, the reinforcing spring element can be snapped into place or otherwise added only when needed.

[0080] In other embodiments, the reinforcing spring element can be fixed along the inner surfaces of the circular portions 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 member, with the reinforcing element positioned along the inner surfaces of the circular portions 110e, 112e, 116e but not fixed to the inner surfaces. The frame can include components connected to the front member 102, the rear member 104, and / or the spring elements 110, 112, 116.

[0081] In additional embodiments, the reinforcing element includes a torsion spring that can be adjusted. In additional 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 provides resistance to the front member 102 only when a user applies a significant amount of pressure to the front member 102 during use.

[0082] In other embodiments, one or more reinforcing spring elements are added to one or more of the following locations: inside or outside the circular portions 110e, 112e of the spring elements 110, 112, between the front flat surfaces 110c, 112c and the rear flat surfaces 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 rebounding device 100 to be used by heavier people and increases the lifespan of the spring elements 110, 112. The ability to optionally add and / or adjust the reinforcing spring element also enables the rebounding device to be purchased by a single household and used by people of various body sizes.

[0083] In additional embodiments, the rebounding device 100 can include first and second rubber guards that extend along the circular portions 110e, 112e of the spring members 110, 112. The rubber guards can include printed portions that prevent the rebounding device 100 from sliding on the floor, the seat of a chair, or other surfaces during use.

[0084] The resilient device 100 may also include first and second structural members that, in use, support the resilient device for independent use without being positioned against a structural support (such as the backrest of a chair or a wall). In one embodiment, the first and second structural members are respectively pivotally attached to the rear flat portions 116a, 116b of the first and second spring members 108a, 108b such that the first and second structural members rotate between an open position and a closed position. In the closed position, the structural members are secured to the rear flat portion 116, thereby allowing the resilient device 100 to be used against a structural surface (such as a chair, wall, etc.) as described above. When the structural members are in the open position, they extend away from the rear flat portions 110d, 112d such that the rear flat portions 110d, 112d form an acute angle with the surface on which the resilient device 100 is positioned. Thereby, a user can lean against the resilient device 100 to create a rocking motion without the need for a piece of furniture or other structural support.

[0085] The dimensions of the resilient device 100 may be modified so as to adapt the device for 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 that shown herein so as to be adapted for use in combination with a wheelchair or a hospital bed.

[0086] As described above, the resilient device can be used for a variety of applications, from rocking a baby 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 invention and without diminishing its attendant advantages.

Claims

1. A resilient device, comprising: a front member; a rear member; and a spring mechanism, the spring mechanism including a biasing element and a force adjustment assembly, wherein the force adjustment assembly includes: a first spring element, the first spring element including a front flat surface and a rear flat surface, the front flat surface and the rear flat surface being connected at a circular portion, wherein the front flat surface contacts the inner surface of the front member; a screw housing, the screw housing being fixed to the inner surface of the rear member, wherein the screw housing includes a channel and a hole in the upper surface; a drive screw, the drive screw passing through the hole and being positioned along the channel 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 the first end and the second end of the drive screw; and a knob, the knob being fixed to the first end of the drive screw by a threaded screw; a threaded block, the threaded block being 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 first spring element is fixed to the threaded block.

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

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

4. The resilient device according to claim 3, wherein, each of the first spring element and the second spring element includes a front flat portion, a rear flat portion, and a circular portion located between the front flat portion and the rear flat portion.

5. The resilient device according to claim 4, wherein, a first front end of the front flat surface of the first spring element, distal to the circular portion, includes an inner edge and an outer edge, and wherein the inner edge is twisted inwardly toward the rear flat surface of the first spring element.

6. The resilient device according to claim 5, wherein, a second front end of the front flat surface of the second spring element, distal to the circular portion, includes an inner edge and an outer edge, and wherein the inner edge is twisted inwardly toward the rear flat surface of the second spring element.

7. A resilient device, comprising: a front member; a rear member; and a spring mechanism, the spring mechanism including a first spring element, a second spring element, and a force adjustment assembly, wherein the first spring element and the second spring element each include a front flat surface and a rear flat surface, wherein the force adjustment assembly includes: A third spring element, the third spring element including a front flat surface and a rear flat surface, the front flat surface and the rear flat surface being connected at a circular portion, wherein the front flat surface contacts the inner surface of the front member; A screw housing fixed to the inner surface of the rear member, the screw housing including a longitudinal channel and a hole in the upper surface; A drive screw passing through the hole and positioned along the longitudinal channel of the screw housing; and A threaded block positioned within the longitudinal channel of the screw housing, the threaded block being configured to move vertically along the longitudinal channel, and wherein the rear flat surface of the third spring element is fixed to the threaded block, wherein the movement of the third spring element is along the longitudinal channel of the screw housing.

8. The return device according to claim 7, wherein, the threaded block includes an inner portion and an outer portion, the inner portion being positioned within the channel of the screw housing and being configured to move along the axis of the drive screw, and the outer portion being located outside the channel, wherein the rear flat surface of the spring element is attached to the outer portion.

9. The return device according to claim 7, wherein, the first spring element and the second spring element have a length and a width, wherein the length is greater than the width, and the first spring element and the second spring element are bent about an axis parallel to the width.

10. The return device according to claim 7, wherein, a first front end of the front flat surface of the second spring element, distal to the circular portion, includes an inner edge and an outer edge, and wherein the inner edge is twisted inwardly towards the rear flat surface of the third spring element.

11. The return device according to claim 7, wherein, a second front end of the front flat surface of the third spring element, distal to the circular portion, includes an inner edge and an outer edge, and wherein the inner edge is twisted inwardly towards the rear flat surface of the third spring element.

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