Adjustable climbing wall for crack climbing and method for adjusting the climbing wall

Abstract

An adjustable climbing wall (100; 400; 500), comprising: a first wall structure (140) having a first primary surface (104); a second wall structure (130) having a second primary surface (102), the first primary surface (104) facing substantially toward the second primary surface (102); a sliding element (120) having an extending element (122) and a receiving element (124), the extending element (122) being connected to the first wall structure (140) and the receiving element (124) being connected to the second wall structure (130), the extending element (122) being slidably engaged with the receiving element (124);and an actuator (150) having a first actuator end (152) and a second actuator end (154), the first actuator end (152) being connected to the first wall structure (140), the second actuator end (154) being connected to the second wall structure (130), a longitudinal axis (156) extending between the first actuator end (152) and the second actuator end (154) being parallel to the extension element (122);

Description

[0001] Aspects of the invention relate to a climbing device.

[0002] Crack climbing is a type of rock climbing in which the climber follows a crack in a rock face, using specialized techniques. Traditionally, a climber uses pressure, force, and friction to move up a crack. The size of the crack (e.g., the gap between two surfaces) when climbing on a rock face can vary due to natural formations. The techniques used for crack climbing can also change depending on the size of the crack.

[0003] Artificial climbing walls for training crack climbing in particular in a secured environment are known, for example, from CN 1 06 039 675 A, CN 1 07 376 278 A, DE 37 39 702 A1, KR 10 2002 0 066 628 A, US 2019 / 0 009 157 A1 and US 2022 / 0 118 332 A1.

[0004] The object of the present invention is to simulate the possibilities of realistically varying crack widths for crack climbing in an artificial climbing wall with good stability using simple means. This object is achieved by an adjustable climbing wall having the features specified in claim 1 or claim 14 and by a method for adjusting a climbing wall having the features specified in claim 18. Preferred embodiments are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0005] Aspects of the invention provide an adjustable climbing wall for crack climbing at various gap sizes. A crack wall is a type of climbing wall for crack climbing that simulates the crack of a rock face. Conventional crack walls have a fixed gap between two climbing surfaces, with each climbing surface mounted to a wall. By mounting both climbing surfaces, conventional crack walls advantageously allow a climber to practice climbing the crack of a rock face. Climbers can apply a force to both climbing surfaces, and the crack wall will apply an opposing force. However, because each conventional crack wall has a fixed gap, a climber may utilize multiple crack walls.The aspects described here provide an adjustable crack wall that retains the benefits of conventional crack walls while additionally providing an adjustable gap between the two climbing surfaces. Furthermore, the aspects described here maintain stiffness when the crack wall is adjusted to a new gap size.

[0006] Illustrative embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawing figures, in which: Fig. 1A and Fig. 1B show various views of an example of an adjustable climbing wall according to aspects described herein; Fig. 2A a front view with a section of the adjustable climbing wall of Fig. 1A and Fig. 1B at a first gap spacing according to aspects described herein; Fig. 2B is an enlarged view of the cutout part of the adjustable climbing wall of Fig. 2A according to aspects described herein; Fig. 3A a front view with a section of the adjustable climbing wall of Fig. 1A and Fig. 1B at a second gap spacing according to aspects described herein; Fig. 3B is an enlarged view of the cutout part of the adjustable climbing wall of Fig. 3A according to aspects described herein; Fig. 4A shows a front view with a section of an example of an adjustable climbing wall with a sliding element according to aspects described herein; Fig. 4B is an enlarged view of the cutout part of the adjustable climbing wall of Fig. 4A according to aspects described herein; Fig. 5 shows a front view with cut-out parts of an adjustable climbing wall with a plurality of sliding elements and actuators according to aspects described herein; and Fig. 6 shows a method for adjusting a climbing wall according to aspects described herein.

[0007] The subject matter of the technology described herein is specifically described to satisfy legal requirements. However, the description itself is not intended to limit the scope of this patent. Rather, the inventor envisions that the claimed subject matter may be embodied in other ways to encompass various steps or combinations of steps, or additional components or combinations of components, similar to or identical to those described in this document, together with other present or future technologies.

[0008] Adjustable climbing walls, such as those described here, can provide climbers with a number of advantages. For example, crack walls are often used to practice the skills associated with crack climbing. However, climbers want to practice different techniques at different gap sizes. The gap should ideally have no obstructions in the gap, as they can hinder some crack climbing techniques. With conventional crack walls, climbers have to purchase multiple crack walls with different static crack widths, which can be very expensive. Furthermore, conventional crack walls may require that both climbing surfaces be mounted to a vertical surface (e.g., a wall) so that a climber can climb the climbing surfaces.Mounting both climbing surfaces to one wall allows the crack wall to be stable for climbing without any additional supports between the two climbing surfaces, which may be an obstacle in the gap. Advantageously, the invention enables an adjustable crack wall. The adjustable crack wall can be adjusted to different gap sizes, so that it is no longer necessary for a climber to purchase or use different conventional crack walls. In the adjustable crack wall of the present disclosure, only one climbing surface may be fixedly mounted to the vertical surface and not both climbing surfaces. Further, this is advantageously achieved without obstacles in the gap. Additionally, the adjustable crack wall may be movable between a first and a second gap size, which may include a plurality of gap sizes therebetween.

[0009] For example, and with reference to the figures, such as the Fig. 1A, Fig. 1B, Fig. 2A, Fig. 2B, Fig. 3A and Fig. 3B, the crack wall described herein includes, in some aspects, a first wall structure 140 having a first primary surface 104, a second wall structure 130 having a second primary surface 102, and a displacement element 120 extending between the first wall structure 140 and the second wall structure 130. The distance between the first primary surface 104 and the second primary surface 102 may be defined by a gap (a first distance 202 and a second distance 204 shown in the Fig. 2A and 3A respectively). In general, the sliding element 120 comprises an extension element 122 and a receiving element 124, as best shown in the Fig. 2B and Fig. 3B. The receiving member 124 may be connected to the first wall structure 140, and the extending member 122 may be connected to the second wall structure 130. This configuration allows the second wall structure 130 to be mounted on a vertical surface and adjustably position the first wall structure 140 relative to the second wall structure 130. The sliding member 120 may provide support for the first wall structure 140 such that only the second wall structure 130 can be mounted on a vertical surface. Additionally, the sliding member 120 may prevent any obstructions in the gap. For example, a sliding member 120 may not require support beams in the gap between the first wall structure 140 and the second wall structure 130, but instead, only the sliding member 120 (or a plurality of sliding members described herein) may be used.While the aspects shown herein show the receiving member 124 and the extending member 122 connected to specific wall structure portions, aspects contemplate that they may be connected to one of the wall structures at any suitable location.

[0010] As used herein, the "sliding member" refers to any linear motion device. Some linear motion devices include an extension member and a receiving member. In some aspects, a sliding member may include a sliding member with a linear rail and a ball bearing. A sliding member may also include a rail and rollers or other configurations that facilitate vertical support while allowing horizontal movement.

[0011] The term "actuator" refers to a component that causes a mechanism or system to move, such as in a linear direction. Actuators can include an electric actuator, a hydraulic actuator, a pneumatic actuator, or any mechanical or electrical device designed to move an object.

[0012] The terms "first wall structure" and "second wall structure" each refer to a crack wall volume. A crack wall volume refers to an entire structure encompassing a climbing surface. Crack wall volumes can come in various shapes and sizes, such as square and rectangular.

[0013] The terms "first primary surface" and "second primary surface" each refer to a climbing surface. In some aspects, the first and second primary surfaces may be substantially flat surfaces; in some aspects, each surface may be textured to mimic natural rock formations, or they may include a soft material for a more comfortable climb for a climber.

[0014] The term "approximately", used when describing numerical ranges, means within ± 10% of a specified value, unless otherwise stated.

[0015] The term "end" is used when describing, for example, an area close to the endpoint boundary of an object or device and is not restricted to an endpoint boundary unless explicitly stated otherwise.

[0016] With reference to the Fig. 1A and Fig. 1B illustrates an exemplary adjustable climbing wall 100 from first and second perspective views, in accordance with aspects described herein. The adjustable climbing wall 100 includes the first wall structure 140 having a first primary surface 104 and a first secondary surface 108, and a second wall structure 130 having a second primary surface 102 and a second secondary surface 106. The first primary surface 104 is substantially directed toward the second primary surface 102. For example, in one example, the first primary surface 104 and the second primary surface 102 are substantially parallel. However, the primary surfaces may deviate from parallelism in other examples. The distance between the first primary surface 104 and the second primary surface 102 defines a crack or gap, enabling crack wall climbing.The distance between the first primary surface 104 and the second primary surface 102 can be adjusted by the displacement element 120 (in the . Fig. 2A, Fig. 2B, Fig. 3A and Fig. 3B) can be changed in the manner described here.

[0017] With reference to the Fig. 1A and Fig. 1B, the first secondary surface 108 and the second secondary surface 106 may be formed at an angle with respect to the first primary surface 104 and the second primary surface 102, respectively. Therefore, the combination of the first primary surface 104 with the first secondary surface 108 and the second primary surface 102 and the second secondary surface 106 may form a triangular structure when viewed from an upper or lower level of the respective volume. The first secondary surface 108 and the second secondary surface 106 may be provided as a cover and / or frame for protecting the components, mechanisms, and devices of the adjustable climbing wall 100. Although the first wall structure 140 and the second wall structure 130 shown in the Fig. 1A and Fig. 1B are shown as a triangular structure, the first wall structure 140 and the second wall structure 130 may, in some aspects, be rectangular or form another shape.

[0018] The Fig. 2A, Fig. 2B, Fig. 3A and Fig. 3B show a cutaway view of the adjustable climbing wall 100 according to aspects thereof. In the Fig. 2A, mounting points 116 are shown. The mounting points 116 may be used with a fastening mechanism, such as a screw, a pin, or other mechanical fastener, for connecting the second wall structure 130 to a vertical surface, such as a wall or other climbing surface. The mounting points 116 may therefore attach the second wall structure 130 while the first wall structure 140 is adjustably positioned relative to the second wall structure 130. For example, a vertical position of the first wall structure 140 is maintained while a transverse position (e.g., horizontal) relative to the second wall structure 130 is adjustable. In some aspects, additional mounting points 116 may be present with the second wall structure 130, or a smaller number of mounting points 116 may be used. Further, it is contemplated that the mounting points 116 may be openings extending through structural elements (e.g.,a frame) of the second wall structure 130 and are effective to have a mechanical fastening device for mounting the second wall structure 130 to a support surface extending therethrough.

[0019] The Fig. 2A, Fig. 2B, Fig. 3A and Fig. 3B show that the adjustable climbing wall 100 is adjustable along the sliding element 120. The sliding element 120 enables the first wall structure 140 to be adjustably positioned relative to the second wall structure 130 in a linear direction defined by a longitudinal axis 156 of the sliding element 120. In particular, the first wall structure 140 can be adjusted by means of the receiving element 124 along the extending element 122 (which is shown in the Fig. 2B and Fig. 3B). As shown in the Fig. 2A and Fig. 2B, the receiving element 124 is located at a first position along the extension element 122, whereby the first wall structure 140 is located at a first distance 202 from the second wall structure 130. As shown in the Fig. 3A and Fig. 3B, the receiving member 124 is located at a second position along the extending member 122, thereby positioning the first wall structure 140 at a second distance 204 from the second wall structure 130. In effect, adjustably positioning the first wall structure 140 relative to the second wall structure 130 adjusts the crack size between the first primary surface 104 and the second primary surface 102.

[0020] As it is in the Fig. 2A and Fig. 3A, the adjustable climbing wall 100 may advantageously allow a climber to practice with multiple gap sizes on the same climbing wall. The first distance 202 may be about 5.8 inches or about 147.32 millimeters from the first primary surface 104 to the second primary surface 102. The second distance 204 may be about 2 inches or about 50.8 millimeters from the first primary surface 104 to the second primary surface 102. The first distance 202 may be the maximum distance and the second distance 204 may be the minimum distance of the adjustable climbing wall 100. In some aspects, the first distance 202 may correspond to an extended position and the second distance 204 may correspond to a second distance 204. The extended position is a distance between the first primary surface 104 and the second primary surface 102 that is greater than the retracted position.In some aspects, the extended position may be the maximum distance between the first primary surface 104 and the second primary surface 102, and the retracted position may be the minimum distance between the first primary surface 104 and the second primary surface 102. In other words, the adjustable climbing wall 100 may be adjusted from the extended position to the retracted position and for variations of distances therebetween for various gaps for practicing crack wall climbing and / or for storage. Although various distances are described herein, it is contemplated that the minimum and maximum distances between the first primary surface 104 and the second primary surface 102 may be any distance corresponding to various gap sizes. For example, in some aspects, the maximum distance may be four feet or about 1.22 meters, and the minimum distance may be 0.2 inches orapproximately 5.08 millimeters.

[0021] The use of a displacement element 120 described herein may be advantageous because the displacement element 120 may enable the second wall structure 130 to support the first wall structure 140 in a vertical direction (e.g., a load-bearing direction when used as a crack wall for climbing). For example, the receiving element 124 may support the load of the first wall structure 140. The receiving element 124 receives the extension element 122, which is connected to the second wall structure 130, which can be connected to a vertical surface. For example, the receiving element 124 may be a bearing seat or block. The receiving element 124 may be connected to the second wall structure 130 by a parallel seat or block directly to the second wall structure 130 and / or any means for attaching the receiving element 124 to the second wall structure 130.In some aspects, the receiving member 124 can support at least a portion of the mass of the first wall structure 140 when the second wall structure 130 is connected to a vertical surface. When the receiving member 124 is load-bearing, the first wall structure 140 can be adjustably positioned along the length of the extending member 122. In other words, the extending member 122 is fixedly connected to one of the wall structures and the receiving member 124 is fixedly connected to the other wall structure such that the two wall structures are slidably engaged via the translational interaction between the extending member 122 and the receiving member 124. For example, the extending member 122 can be connected to the second wall structure 130 and the receiving member 124 can be connected to the first wall structure 140.

[0022] The sliding engagement provides vertical support and therefore vertical strength, while still allowing variability in horizontal positioning between the two wall structures. In some aspects, the sliding member 120 serves as a load-bearing member, allowing the actuator 150 to actuate the first wall structure 140 relative to the second wall structure 130 horizontally (e.g., perpendicular to the load-bearing direction) without (or at least with minimal) load-bearing forces acting on the actuator 150.

[0023] With reference again to the Fig. 2A, Fig. 2B, Fig. 3A and Fig. 3B, in some aspects, the adjustable climbing wall 100 may include the actuator 150. The actuator may have a first actuator end 152 connected to the first wall structure 140 and a second actuator end 154 connected to the second wall structure 130. The actuator 150 may position the first wall structure 140 relative to the second wall structure 130 by applying a force to move the first wall structure 140 along the displacement member 120. In particular, the actuator 150 may set or establish a gap distance between the first primary surface 104 and the second primary surface 102 by positioning the first primary surface 104 at a position along the extension member 122 via the receiving member 124. In other words, the first primary surface 104 may be adjustably positioned relative to the second primary surface 102 via the actuator 150.For example, the first primary surface 104 can be slidably adjusted to the retracted position at the second distance 204 and to the extended position at the first distance 202 by means of the actuator 150.

[0024] The actuator 150 may comprise an electrical actuator. As described in the Fig. 3A and Fig. 3B, the actuator 150 may include a head 157 and a shaft 158. The head 157 may be located proximate the first actuator end 152, and the shaft 158 may be located proximate the second actuator end 154. The head 157 may include a drive device for actuating the shaft 158. The head 157 may adjust the shaft 158 from a first distance 202 from the head 157 to a second distance 204 having a greater length than the first distance 202.

[0025] The actuator 150 and the displacement element 120 may be parallel to each other. In particular, a longitudinal axis, such as the longitudinal axis 156, may extend between the first actuator end 152 and the second actuator end 154. The longitudinal axis 156 of the actuator 150 may be parallel to the extension element 122, as defined by an axis located between the endpoints of the extension element 122. By maintaining the longitudinal axis 156 parallel to the extension element 122, the first wall structure 140 may be positioned using the combination of the displacement element 120 and the actuator 150.

[0026] In combination, the actuator 150 and the displacement element 120 provide horizontal (e.g., left-to-right) movement of the first wall structure 140 and the second wall structure 130 relative to each other while maintaining a vertical (e.g., top-to-bottom) position of the first wall structure 140 and the second wall structure 130. The displacement element 120 provides vertical stability, while the actuator 150 provides horizontal movement positioning. Because the displacement element 120 provides at least the majority of the vertical support for the first wall structure 140, the actuator 150 may be selected based only on the ability to provide horizontal movement and not also on providing some or all of the vertical support.Therefore, the combination of the actuator 150 and the displacement element 120 enables suitable actuation of the actuator 150 and resulting space savings within the wall structures due to a potentially smaller size of the actuator 150 used.

[0027] As it is in the Fig. 1A, Fig. 2A and Fig. 3A, a controller 112 is mounted on the second wall structure 130. The controller 112 may be logically coupled (e.g., wired or wirelessly) to an actuator 150 for positioning the first primary surface 104 relative to the second primary surface 102. For example, in some aspects, the controller 112 may be electronically coupled to the actuator 150 with a power source 160 for slidably adjusting the first primary surface 104 relative to the second primary surface 102. As shown in the Fig. 1B, in some aspects, the controller 112 may be mounted on the first wall structure 140. The controller 112 may include a processor and a memory configured to control the actuator 150 between one or more positions.

[0028] The actuator 150 can not only position the first primary surface 104 relative to the second primary surface 102, but also maintain the gap distance between the two surfaces. When a climber climbs on the adjustable climbing wall 100, the climber exerts a force on each of the first primary surface 104 and the second primary surface 102 in at least one opposing horizontal direction. In other words, a force exerted on a crack wall during climbing is at least a force that separates the first wall structure 140 and the second wall structure 130 (e.g., increases a distance therebetween). As described herein, the second wall structure 130 can be mounted on a vertical surface, while the first wall structure 140 can be adjustable.The actuator 150 may counteract the force applied to each of the first primary surface 104 and the second primary surface 102 to maintain a fixed and adjusted gap during a climbing operation. For example, the actuator 150 may maintain the first distance 202. In some aspects, if the actuator 150 is mechanical, the counteracting force may be a mechanical force.

[0029] It is contemplated that a set distance or gap may be maintained with additional or alternative mechanisms. For example, a mechanical lock, brake, compression, or other engagement may be implemented to assist or exclusively provide an effective force that resists forces generated during a climb. The gap may be maintained by an independent mechanism, or the gap may be maintained by the sliding member 120 having a detent or other brake-like feature.

[0030] While the actuator 150 is described and shown with a specific relative configuration of the first wall structure 140 and the second wall structure 130, the orientation and position of the actuator 150 may be varied. For example, in aspects, the head 157 may be disposed proximate to the first wall structure 140 or the second wall structure 130.

[0031] A cover plate 110 may at least partially conceal the displacement element 120 or the actuator 150 when viewed from a distal end 114 (e.g., a front view) of the first wall structure 140. In some aspects, the cover plate 110 may be concealed when viewed from a distal end 114 (e.g., a front view) of the first wall structure 140. Fig. 1A) of the first wall structure 140 may at least partially conceal the sliding element 120 and the actuator 150. The cover plate 110 may be connected to the first wall structure 140 and slidably engage the second wall structure 130. The second wall structure 130 may include a receiving cavity for receiving the cover plate 110 when the second wall structure 130 is adjustably positioned relative to the first wall structure 140.

[0032] The first secondary surface 108 and the second secondary surface 106 may obscure components of the present disclosure when viewed from a distal end 114 of the first wall structure 140. In an advantageous manner, obscuring components of the present disclosure may provide additional safety for a climber in that components of the adjustable climbing wall 100 do not interfere with the climber's actions. For example, if components and devices, such as the deployment member 122, are located outside the first secondary surface 108 or the second secondary surface 106, a climber may place their foot on the deployment member 122 for an unfair advantage while climbing. Alternatively, a deployment member 122 outside the first secondary surface 108 or the second secondary surface 106 may be dangerous if a climber falls from the adjustable climbing wall 100.In each of these examples, a climber may be endangered or the components described here may be damaged by the climber.

[0033] In some aspects, the first secondary surface 108 and the second secondary surface 106 may obscure at least a portion of the actuator 150. In some aspects, the first actuator end 152 may include a first actuator endpoint boundary 172 and the second actuator end 154 may include a second actuator endpoint boundary 174. The first actuator endpoint boundary 172 may be contained within the first wall structure 140 and the second actuator endpoint boundary 174 may be contained within the second wall structure 130. When the first wall structure 140 is at a first distance 202 or a second distance 204, each of the first actuator endpoint boundary 172 and the second actuator endpoint boundary 174 may remain contained within the first wall structure 140 and the second wall structure 130, respectively. In this way, the first actuator endpoint boundary 172 and the second actuator endpoint boundary 174 are hidden from view and protected from a climber.Accordingly, the head 157 may be concealed by the first secondary surface 108 and protected from damage by a climber.

[0034] In some aspects, the translation element 120 may be at least partially obscured by the first secondary surface 108 and the second secondary surface 106. The translation element 120 may include a first translation element endpoint limit 176 proximate the receiving element 124 and a second translation element endpoint limit 178 proximate the extending element 122. The first translation element endpoint limit 176 may be received within the first wall structure 140. The first translation element endpoint limit 176 may be received within the first wall structure 140, and the second translation element endpoint limit 178 may be received within the second wall structure 130. When the first wall structure 140 is at a first distance 202 or a second distance 204, either the first translation element endpoint limit 176 or the second translation element endpoint limit 178 may be received within the first wall structure 140 or the second wall structure 130, respectively.the second wall structure 130. In this way, the first sliding element endpoint boundary 176 and the second sliding element endpoint boundary 178 can be hidden from view and protected from a climber.

[0035] At least a portion of the cover plate 110 may be obscured by the first secondary surface 108 and the second secondary surface 106. For example, when the first wall structure 140 is positioned relative to the second wall structure 130, the cover plate 110 may be received within the first wall structure 140. In some aspects, the cover plate 110 may include a first cover endpoint boundary 162 received within the first wall structure 140 and a second cover endpoint boundary 164 received within the second wall structure 130. In some aspects, each of the first cover endpoint boundary 162 and the second cover endpoint boundary 164 may be received within the first wall structure 140 and the second wall structure 130, respectively, when the first wall structure 140 and the second wall structure 130 are at the first distance 202 and the second distance 204.For example, when the first wall structure 140 and the second wall structure 130 are at a second distance 204, the first cover endpoint boundary 162 and the second cover endpoint boundary 164 may be obscured by the first secondary surface 108 and the second secondary surface 106.

[0036] The Fig. 4A and Fig. 4B show an example of an adjustable climbing wall 400 with an example sliding element 120 according to aspects described herein. Elements and components of Fig. 4A and Fig. 4B may have a corresponding function and structure to those described in relation to the Fig. 2A, Fig. 2B, Fig. 3A and Fig. 3B. The displacement element 120 may include the extension element 122 and the receiving element 124 for adjustably positioning the first wall structure 140 relative to the second wall structure 130. The Fig. 4A and Fig. 4B are without the actuator 150 (which is in the Fig. 2A, Fig. 2B, Fig. 3A, Fig. 3B) and illustrate an aspect of the present disclosure in which manual or mechanical means may be used to adjustably position the first wall structure 140 relative to the second wall structure 130.

[0037] The Fig. 5 shows an example of an adjustable climbing wall 500 with a plurality of sliding elements and actuators according to aspects described herein. Fig. 5 can include corresponding features and components such as the Fig. 1, Fig. 2A, Fig. 2B, Fig. 3A and Fig. 3B. The Fig. 5 is shown with an additional sliding element 510 having an additional extending element 512 and an additional receiving element 514. The additional extending element 512 may be connected to the first wall structure 140, and the additional receiving element 514 may be connected to the second wall structure 130. The additional extending element 512 may be slidably engaged with the additional receiving element 514.

[0038] The Fig. 5 also includes an additional actuator 520 having a first additional actuator end 522 and a second additional actuator end 524. The first additional actuator end 522 may be connected to the first wall structure 140, and the second additional actuator end 524 may be connected to the second wall structure 130. An additional longitudinal axis 526 may extend between the first additional actuator end 522 and the second additional actuator end 524. The additional extension member 512 and the additional longitudinal axis 526 may be parallel. In some aspects, the additional extension member 512, the additional longitudinal axis 526, the longitudinal axis 156, and the extension member 122 may be parallel. In this way, the actuator 150 and the additional actuator 520 may position the first wall structure 140 relative to the second wall structure 130 simultaneously.For example, the actuator 150 and the additional actuator 520 may cooperate to move the first wall structure 140 along the displacement element 120 and the additional displacement element 510. In the . Fig. 5, the controller 112 is further shown. The controller 112 may be configured to adjust the position of each of the first wall structure 140 and the second wall structure 130 with each of the actuator 150 and the additional actuator 520 simultaneously. In some aspects, the controller 112 may position supplementary actuators associated with additional adjustable climbing walls. For example, supplementary adjustable climbing walls may be linked to the controller 112. In other words, supplementary adjustable climbing walls may be controlled by a common controller, such as the controller 112.

[0039] In some aspects, the first wall structure 140 and the second wall structure 130 of the adjustable climbing wall 500 may each have a height 530 that determines the amount of vertical climbing space usable along the adjustable climbing wall 500. The height 530 may be about eight feet (about 2.44 meters), although in some aspects, it is contemplated that the height 530 may be six feet (about 1.82 meters). It is contemplated that a height of a wall structure may be any length, such as less than six feet, more than eight feet, and any distance therebetween. Supplemental adjustable climbing walls may enable additional height to be achieved through the adjustable climbing wall, allowing a climber to practice at a greater vertical distance than can be achieved with a single adjustable climbing wall 500.

[0040] The Fig. 6 illustrates a method for adjusting a climbing wall according to aspects described herein. In some aspects, the method 600 may be simplified by the adjustable climbing wall 100.

[0041] The method 600 begins at block 610 by receiving, by a controller, a first input corresponding to a first distance between a first primary surface and a second primary surface. In some aspects, the first distance corresponds to the first distance 202, a first primary surface corresponds to the first primary surface 104, the controller refers to the controller 112, and the second primary surface refers to the second primary surface 102 of Fig. 1A, Fig. 1B, Fig. 2A, Fig. 2B, Fig. 3A and Fig. 3B.

[0042] At block 620, with reference to the Fig. 1A and Fig. 1B, the first primary surface 104 is substantially directed toward the second primary surface 102.

[0043] At block 630, with reference to the Fig. 2A, Fig. 2B, Fig. 3A and Fig. 3B, the first primary surface 104 is movable along a displacement element 120. For example, the first primary surface 104 is movable along the displacement element 120, which has an extension element 122 and a receiving element 124. The extension element 122 may be connected to the first primary surface 104, and the extension element 122 may be slidably engaged with the receiving element 124.

[0044] At block 640, with reference to the Fig. 2A and Fig.3A, positioning of the first primary surface 104 to the first distance 202 from the second primary surface 102 takes place by means of an actuator 150. For example, in response to the first input, positioning of the first primary surface 104 from the second primary surface 102 takes place by means of the actuator 150. Positioning, as described herein, may include moving, by means of the actuator 150, the first primary surface 104 by translating the extension element 122 along the receiving element 124. The actuator 150 may include a first actuator end 152 and a second actuator end 154. The first actuator end 152 may be connected to the first primary surface 104 and the second actuator end may be connected to the second primary surface 102. In some aspects, the controller 112 may receive a second input corresponding to a second distance 204.In response to the second input, the actuator 150 may position the first primary surface 104 to the second distance 204 from the second primary surface 102.

[0045] Many different arrangements of the various components shown, as well as components not shown, are possible without departing from the scope of the following claims. Embodiments of the technology have been described with the intent to be illustrative and not restrictive. Alternative embodiments will become apparent to the reader of this disclosure after reading and upon reading the disclosure. Alternative means of implementing the foregoing may be found without departing from the scope of the following claims. Certain features and subcombinations are useful and may be used without reference to other features and subcombinations and are contemplated within the scope of the claims.

[0046] The following items represent example aspects of concepts provided herein. Any of the following items may be combined in a multiply dependent manner, such that they depend on one or more other items. Furthermore, any combination of dependent items (items that explicitly depend on a preceding item) may be combined while remaining within the scope of aspects provided herein. The following items are examples and are not limiting.

[0047] Item 1. An adjustable climbing wall comprising: a first wall structure having a first primary surface; a second wall structure having a second primary surface, the first primary surface facing substantially toward the second primary surface; a sliding member having an extending member and a receiving member, the extending member connected to the first wall structure and the receiving member connected to the second wall structure, the extending member slidably engaging the receiving member; and an actuator having a first actuator end and a second actuator end, the first actuator end connected to the first wall structure, the second actuator end connected to the second wall structure, a longitudinal axis extending between the first actuator end and the second actuator end being parallel to the extending member.

[0048] Item 2. Adjustable climbing wall according to one of the preceding items, wherein the first primary surface is adjustably positioned relative to the second primary surface by means of the actuator.

[0049] Item 3. The adjustable climbing wall of any preceding item, wherein the actuator further comprises a head proximate the first actuator end and a shaft at the second actuator end.

[0050] Item 4. The adjustable climbing wall according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the first actuator end is a first actuator endpoint limit and the second actuator end is a second actuator endpoint limit.

[0051] Item 5. The adjustable climbing wall of any preceding item, wherein the sliding element comprises a first sliding element endpoint limiter and a second sliding element endpoint limiter, and wherein the first sliding element endpoint limiter is received within the first wall structure and the second sliding element endpoint limiter is received within the second wall structure.

[0052] Item 6. Adjustable climbing wall according to any one of the preceding items, further comprising a control device for positioning, by means of the actuator, the first primary surface relative to the second primary surface.

[0053] Item 7. The adjustable climbing wall according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the positioning is between about 2 to 5.8 inches from the first primary surface to the second primary surface.

[0054] Item 8. The adjustable climbing wall according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the first primary surface is slidably adjusted to a retracted position and an extended position by means of the actuator, the extended position being a first distance between the first primary surface and the second primary surface that is greater than a second distance between the first primary surface and the second primary surface in the retracted position.

[0055] Item 9. The adjustable climbing wall of any preceding item, further comprising a controller electronically coupled to the actuator and a power source operable to drive the actuator to slidably adjust the first primary surface, the controller including a first preset associated with the extended position and a second preset associated with a retracted position.

[0056] Item 10. The adjustable climbing wall of any preceding item, further comprising a cover plate connected to the first wall structure and slidably engaged with the second wall structure, and wherein the actuator and the displacement member are at least partially concealed when viewed from a distal end of the first wall structure.

[0057] Item 11. The adjustable climbing wall of any preceding item, further comprising a cover plate having a first cover endpoint boundary and a second cover endpoint boundary, wherein the first cover endpoint boundary is received within the first wall structure and wherein the second cover endpoint boundary is received within the second wall structure.

[0058] Item 12. The adjustable climbing wall of any preceding item, further comprising: an additional sliding element having an additional extending element and an additional receiving element, wherein the additional extending element is connected to the first wall structure and the additional receiving element is connected to the second wall structure, wherein the additional extending element is slidably engaged with the additional receiving element; and an additional actuator having a first additional actuator end and a second additional actuator end, wherein the first additional actuator end is connected to the first wall structure, the second additional actuator end is connected to the second wall structure, wherein an additional longitudinal axis extends between the first additional actuator end and the second additional actuator end, and the longitudinal axis and the extending element are parallel.

[0059] Item 13. Adjustable climbing wall according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the receiving element at least partially supports the load of the first wall structure.

[0060] Item 14. An adjustable climbing wall comprising: a first wall structure having a first primary surface; a second wall structure having a second primary surface, the first primary surface facing substantially toward the second primary surface; and a sliding member having an extending member and a receiving member, the extending member connected to the first wall structure and the receiving member connected to the second wall structure, the extending member slidably engaged with the receiving member, the first primary surface slidably adjustable to a retracted position and an extended position, the extended position being a first distance between the first primary surface and the second primary surface that is greater than a second distance in the retracted position.

[0061] Item 15. The adjustable climbing wall of any preceding item, wherein the sliding element comprises a first sliding element endpoint limiter and a second sliding element endpoint limiter, wherein the first sliding element endpoint limiter is received within the first wall structure and the second sliding element endpoint limiter is received within the second wall structure.

[0062] Item 16. The adjustable climbing wall according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the retracted position is about two inches or less between the first primary surface and the second primary surface and the extended position is about 5.8 inches or less between the first primary surface and the second primary surface.

[0063] Item 17. The adjustable climbing wall of any preceding item, further comprising a cover plate connected to the first wall structure and slidably engaged with the second wall structure, and wherein the sliding member is at least partially concealed when viewed from a distal end of the first wall structure, and wherein the cover plate comprises a first cover endpoint limit received in the first wall structure and a second cover endpoint limit received in the second wall structure.

[0064] Item 18. A method for adjusting a climbing wall, comprising: receiving, by a controller, a first input corresponding to a first distance between a first primary surface and a second primary surface, wherein: the first primary surface is substantially directed toward the second primary surface; the first primary surface is movable along a sliding member having an extending member and a receiving member, the extending member is connected to the first primary surface and the receiving member is connected to the second primary surface, the extending member is slidably engaged with the receiving member;and in response to the first input, positioning, by means of an actuator, the first primary surface to the first distance from the second primary surface, the actuator comprising a first actuator end and a second actuator end, the first actuator end being connected to the first primary surface and the second actuator end being connected to the second primary surface;

[0065] Item 19. The method of any preceding item, further comprising: receiving, by the controller, a second input corresponding to a second distance; and in response to the second input, positioning, by means of an actuator, the first primary surface to the second distance from the second primary surface.

[0066] Item 20. Method according to one of the preceding items, wherein the positioning comprises moving, by means of the actuator, the first primary surface by displacing the extending element along the receiving element.

Claims

[1] An adjustable climbing wall (100; 400; 500), comprising: a first wall structure (140) having a first primary surface (104); a second wall structure (130) having a second primary surface (102), the first primary surface (104) being substantially directed toward the second primary surface (102); a sliding element (120) having an extending element (122) and a receiving element (124), the extending element (122) being connected to the first wall structure (140) and the receiving element (124) being connected to the second wall structure (130), the extending element (122) being slidably engaged with the receiving element (124);and an actuator (150) having a first actuator end (152) and a second actuator end (154), the first actuator end (152) being connected to the first wall structure (140), the second actuator end (154) being connected to the second wall structure (130), a longitudinal axis (156) extending between the first actuator end (152) and the second actuator end (154) being parallel to the extension element (122); [2] Adjustable climbing wall (100; 400; 500) according to claim 1, wherein the first primary surface (104) is adjustably positioned relative to the second primary surface (102) by means of the actuator (150). [3] The adjustable climbing wall (100; 400; 500) of claim 1, wherein the actuator (150) further comprises a head (157) proximate the first actuator end (152) and a shaft (158) at the second actuator end (154). [4] The adjustable climbing wall (100; 400; 500) of claim 1, wherein the first actuator end (152) is a first actuator endpoint limit (172) and the second actuator end (154) is a second actuator endpoint limit (174). [5] Adjustable climbing wall (100; 400; 500) according to claim 1, wherein the sliding element (120) comprises a first sliding element endpoint limit (176) and a second sliding element endpoint limit (178), and wherein the first sliding element endpoint limit (176) is received within the first wall structure (140) and the second sliding element endpoint limit (178) is received within the second wall structure (130). [6] Adjustable climbing wall (100; 400; 500) according to claim 1, further comprising a control device for positioning, by means of the actuator (150), the first primary surface (104) relative to the second primary surface (102). [7] The adjustable climbing wall (100; 400; 500) of claim 6, wherein the positioning is between about 2 to 5.8 inches from the first primary surface (104) to the second primary surface (102). [8] Adjustable climbing wall (100; 400; 500) according to claim 1, wherein the first primary surface (104) is slidably adjusted to a retracted position and an extended position by means of the actuator (150), wherein the extended position is a first distance (202) between the first primary surface (104) and the second primary surface (102) that is greater than a second distance (204) between the first primary surface (104) and the second primary surface (102) in the retracted position. [9] The adjustable climbing wall (100; 400; 500) of claim 8, further comprising a controller (112) electronically coupled to the actuator (150) and a power source operable to drive the actuator (150) to slidably adjust the first primary surface (104), the controller (112) comprising a first preset associated with the extended position and a second preset associated with a retracted position. [10] The adjustable climbing wall (100; 400; 500) of claim 1, further comprising a cover plate (110) connected to the first wall structure (140) and slidably engaged with the second wall structure (130), and wherein the actuator (150) and the displacement element (120) are at least partially obscured when viewed from a distal end (114) of the first wall structure (140). [11] The adjustable climbing wall (100; 400; 500) of claim 1, further comprising a cover plate (110) having a first cover endpoint boundary (162) and a second cover endpoint boundary (164), wherein the first cover endpoint boundary (162) is received within the first wall structure (140) and wherein the second cover endpoint boundary (164) is received within the second wall structure (130). [12] The adjustable climbing wall (500) of claim 1, further comprising: an additional sliding member (510) having an additional extending member (512) and an additional receiving member (514), wherein the additional extending member (512) is connected to the first wall structure (140) and the additional receiving member (514) is connected to the second wall structure (130), wherein the additional extending member (512) is slidably engaged with the additional receiving member (514);and an additional actuator (520) having a first additional actuator end (522) and a second additional actuator end (524), the first additional actuator end (522) being connected to the first wall structure (140), the second additional actuator end (524) being connected to the second wall structure (130), an additional longitudinal axis (526) extending between the first additional actuator end (522) and the second additional actuator end (524), the additional longitudinal axis (526) and the additional extension element (512) being parallel.; [13] Adjustable climbing wall (100; 400; 500) according to claim 1, wherein the receiving element (124) at least partially supports the load of the first wall structure (140). [14] An adjustable climbing wall (100; 400; 500) comprising: a first wall structure (140) having a first primary surface (104); a second wall structure (130) having a second primary surface (102), the first primary surface (104) being substantially directed toward the second primary surface (102);and a sliding element (120) having an extending element (122) and a receiving element (124), wherein the extending element (122) is connected to the first wall structure (140) and the receiving element (124) is connected to the second wall structure (130), wherein the extending element (122) is slidably engaged with the receiving element (124), wherein the first primary surface (104) is slidably adjustable to a retracted position and an extended position, wherein the extended position is a first distance (202) between the first primary surface (104) and the second primary surface (102) that is greater than a second distance (204) in the retracted position; [15] Adjustable climbing wall (100; 400; 500) according to claim 14, wherein the sliding element (120) comprises a first sliding element endpoint limit (176) and a second sliding element endpoint limit (178), wherein the first sliding element endpoint limit (176) is received within the first wall structure (140) and the second sliding element endpoint limit (178) is received within the second wall structure (130). [16] The adjustable climbing wall (100; 400; 500) of claim 14, wherein the retracted position is about two inches or less between the first primary surface (104) and the second primary surface (102) and the extended position is about 5.8 inches or less between the first primary surface (104) and the second primary surface (102). [17] The adjustable climbing wall (100; 400; 500) of claim 14, further comprising a cover plate (110) connected to the first wall structure (140) and slidably engaged with the second wall structure (130), and wherein the sliding member (120) is at least partially concealed when viewed from a distal end of the first wall structure (140), and wherein the cover plate (110) comprises a first cover endpoint limit (162) received in the first wall structure (140) and a second cover endpoint limit (164) received in the second wall structure (130). [18] A method for adjusting a climbing wall (100; 400; 500), comprising: receiving a first input corresponding to a first distance (202) between a first primary surface (104) and a second primary surface (102) by means of a control device (112), wherein: the first primary surface (104) is substantially directed towards the second primary surface (102); the first primary surface (104) is movable along a sliding element (120) having an extending element (122) and a receiving element (124), the extending element (122) is connected to the first primary surface (104) and the receiving element (124) is connected to the second primary surface (102), the extending element (122) is slidably engaged with the receiving element (124);and in response to the first input, positioning, by means of an actuator (150), the first primary surface (104) to the first distance (202) from the second primary surface (102), the actuator (150) comprising a first actuator end (152) and a second actuator end (154), the first actuator end (152) being connected to the first primary surface (104) and the second actuator end (154) being connected to the second primary surface (102); [19] The method of claim 18, further comprising: receiving, by the controller (112), a second input corresponding to a second distance (204); and in response to the second input, positioning, by means of an actuator (150), the first primary surface (104) to the second distance (204) from the second primary surface (102). [20] The method of claim 18, wherein the positioning comprises moving, by means of the actuator (150), the first primary surface (104) by displacing the extension element (122) along the receiving element (124).

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