Dynamic Flex Board

Abstract

A dynamic board is provided that promotes movement and muscle activation in a largely stationary environment. The board has a flexible planar surface that allows resistive bending about multiple spatial planes. The support board is formed of a plurality of linear ribs stacked parallel to one another and having a lateral central fulcrum hinge extending through each linear rib to provide a pivot point for movement along a central lateral axis. A compression element presses the plurality of linear ribs together and provides a biasing force to each of said ribs to return to a rest position about the fulcrum hinge when deflected. Each rib may be formed of a structurally integral piece and may have an overall lateral profile that resembles a circular arc segment. [Others] The drawings contain only Arabic numeral part numbers and alphabetic symbols, and no translation is required. Therefore, it is not necessary to submit a translation of the drawings.

Description

[Background technology]

[0001] 1. Technical field to which the invention pertains

[0002] The present invention relates to a lower extremity stimulation device, and more particularly to a flexible board that facilitates distraction-free flexion of the lower extremities about various planes of motion. 2. Description of Related Technology

[0003] [Patent Document 1] The first patent for a "balance board" in 1953 anticipated a recreational balance game or amusement type device that provided a rollable device on which a person stood and balanced by shifting their weight. See U.S. Patent No. 2,764,411, to Washburn Jr. These boards quickly became popular for skiers and surfers to practice their balance skills during off-season or when natural conditions were poor. Over the years, balance boards have been used for training in sports and martial arts, for physical fitness, and for non-athletic purposes.

[0004] In health and fitness applications, such devices are used to develop balance, motor coordination skills, weight distribution, and core strength, as well as to strengthen ankles and knees in rehabilitation after injury. Balance boards have become more commonly used beyond their athletic origins, namely to expand the neural networks that allow the left and right hemispheres of the brain to communicate with each other, thereby increasing brain efficiency, to develop sensory integration and cognitive skills in children with developmental disabilities, to get dancers lighter on their feet, to teach singers optimal posture for controlling airflow, to teach musicians how to hold their instruments, to shake off writer's block and other creativity inhibitors, and as an accessory to and form of yoga to cultivate overall health, self-awareness, and calm.

[0005] In the United States, there are more than 100 models of balance boards on the market. Each of them is a version of one of about 15 types of balance boards. Each of these models and types can be classified as one of five basic types of balance boards according to two binary parameters: whether its fulcrum is attached to the board and whether the board tilts only in two opposite directions (left and right or front and back) or in every direction (360 degrees). More specifically, rocker-roller boards are rocker boards where the fulcrum is a separate part, sphere-and-ring boards are swing boards where the fulcrum is a separate part, swing boards are rocker boards that tilt towards 360 degrees, sphere-and-ring boards are rocker roller boards that tilt towards 360 degrees, and spring boards are resting on compression springs that tilt towards 360 degrees.

[0006] The use of balance exercises and movements can have health benefits beyond training, recreation or rehabilitation. The engagement of muscle activation and promotion of movement can benefit people in sedentary environments, especially through stimulating overall blood flow by increasing circulation in the lower extremities. However, the use of "balance boards" of the type known in the art is not suitable for use in combination with occupations that involve little movement, such as sitting or standing at a desk for periods of time.

[0007] As a result, there is a need for systems and devices that can promote movement and lower limb blood flow while sitting at a desk or standing at a standing desk (i.e., while working in an office), in a distraction-free manner, to counter the negative health effects of prolonged immobility. Summary of the Invention

[0008] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a dynamic board that promotes movement and muscle activation in a largely stationary environment.

[0009] A feature of the present invention is to provide a flexible planar surface that allows resistive bending about multiple spatial planes.

[0010] Briefly described according to a preferred embodiment, a multi-planar bending board is provided for providing resistive exercise to the lower limbs. The board is comprised of a plurality of linear plates and sections stacked parallel to one another. By providing a flexible plane that allows resistive bending in multiple spatial planes, a board is provided that promotes exercise and muscle activation in a largely immobile environment. The support board is formed of a plurality of linear ribs stacked parallel to one another, each having a lateral central fulcrum hinge extending through each linear rib to provide a pivot point for movement along a lateral central axis. A compression element presses the plurality of linear ribs together and provides a biasing force to each of said ribs to return to a rest position about the fulcrum hinge when deflected. Each rib may be formed of a structurally integral piece and may have a lateral profile that generally resembles a circular arc segment. The central fulcrum hinge may comprise a solid rod at a lateral central axis extending through each linear plate, providing a fulcrum for movement along the central axis. A resilient element, such as a nylon bungee, is further threaded through the straight plate to provide a recoil effect and stop the section from over-rotating, thereby providing balance. The lower surface is curved, allowing the user to position themselves on the upper surface and lean their feet smoothly.

[0011] The multi-segmented flat top surface allows users to stand with or without shoes and features vertical grooves that allow the user to measure for a proper equidistant stance. Sections of wood are rounded under the legs to mimic a massage that stimulates good blood flow in the lower extremities.

[0012] The overall low vertical height makes the board suitable for use at a standing desk or in any environment where the user is forced to remain in a standing position with little movement for long periods of time.

[0013] Resistance provided around multiple axes engages the user's core muscles, but at the same time, does so in a manner that does not distract the user from being productive.

[0014] The unique design, construction and operation simultaneously promotes movement, flexibility and comfort.

[0015] Further objects, features, elements and advantages of the present invention will become apparent in the course of the following description. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0016] The advantages and features of the present invention will be better understood by reference to the following more detailed description and claims in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like elements are identified with like symbols, and in which:

[0017] FIG. 1 is a plan view of a dynamic resistance flex board according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] FIG. 2 is a bottom view.

[0019] FIG. 3 is a perspective view thereof.

[0020] FIG. 4 is a side view of the device, the opposite side being a mirror image.

[0021] FIG. 5 is a side view of FIG. 4 showing ribs 20 bent to form a curved upper surface.

[0022] FIG. 6 is a partially exploded top perspective view of a dynamic resistance flex board according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] FIG. 7 is a partially exploded perspective view from below.

[0024] FIG. 8 is a partially exploded plan view thereof.

[0025] FIG. 9 is a front view thereof.

[0026] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XX in FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0027] The best mode for carrying out the invention is presented herein with respect to its preferred embodiment as shown in the drawings. The legal scope of this specification is defined by the language of the claims at the end of this patent, and it should be understood that the detailed description should be construed as exemplary only and does not describe all possible embodiments, as describing all possible embodiments would be impractical, if not impossible. Numerous alternative embodiments can be implemented using either current technology or technology developed after the filing date of this patent, and still fall within the scope of the claims.

[0028] The best mode for carrying out the present invention is presented herein with reference to preferred embodiments thereof as illustrated in the drawings. 1. Detailed description of the drawings

[0029] Referring now to the drawings, in which like reference numerals indicate the same parts throughout the several views, a support board, generally designated 10, is shown in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention designed and adapted to provide resistive exercise to the lower extremities. The support board 10 is formed from a plurality of linear ribs or plates 20 formed in parallel stacked sections, as described in further detail below. Each individual rib 20 may be a single piece (e.g., one piece) or may be formed of multiple layers mechanically connected to function as a single integrated element. The ribs 20 are preferably each made of wood, and more preferably each made of an engineered material such as a plywood material, i.e., manufactured from thin layers or "layers" of wood veneer glued together with adjacent layers having grains rotated up to 90 degrees from each other. Alternatively, the ribs 20 may be formed from different engineered woods, including a group of manufacturing materials including medium density fiberboard (MDF), oriented strand board (OSB) and particleboard (chipboard).

[0030] In other or alternative constructions, the ribs 20 are made from other suitable and functionally equivalent materials, such as, for example, molded plastic, metal (eg, aluminum), other polymeric materials, composite materials, or combinations of different materials.

[0031] In either embodiment, the ribs 20 can be assembled with spacing between them to allow individual ribs 20 to move without colliding with adjacent ribs. In a preferred embodiment, the spacing between the ribs is no greater than a dimension that could cause a user's foot or toes to be accidentally pinched within the spacing. In a more preferred embodiment, the spacing is from about 0.5 mm to about 10 mm. In an even more preferred embodiment, the spacing is about 1.5 mm.

[0032] The central axis rod 30 is disposed at a lateral centerline 32. The lateral centerline 32 defines an axis through each of the ribs 20 and provides a fulcrum for pivotal movement about the central axis 32.

[0033] A resilient element 40 is further provided. The resilient element 40 may be provided in the form of a nylon bungee or other similar functionally equivalent member (e.g., rubber, spring, etc.) capable of providing compression to the ribs 20 inwardly to compress the plurality of parallel ribs 20 together. As shown herein, the bungee 40 is threaded laterally through the straight ribs 20 parallel to the central axial rod 30 at an offset 34 from the central axial rod 30. This combination of tension and a parallel offset about the centerline 32 provides a recoil effect that keeps the ribs 20 parallel and provides resistance to rotation of the ribs 20.

[0034] A plurality of ribs 20, when positioned adjacent and parallel, form a support platform (generally 50) on an upper surface 52. Upper surface 52 may be substantially flat. Opposite support platform 50 is a generally lower surface 54. Lower surface 54 may be generally curved along a linear centerline 58. Each rib 20 with a flat upper surface 52 and a curved lower surface 54 may have a generally lateral profile resembling a circular arc segment.

[0035] Because the underside 54 is curved along a linear centerline 58, the entire board 10 can rock about its axis along the underside 54. Each adjacent rib 20 can be successively higher along the linear centerline to create the ability to similarly rock the board 10 about the lateral centerline 32. The alignment of the progressively larger ribs 20 can further form a secondary segmented curve 60 about the lateral axis 32. By forming a curve along each lateral axis and the linear axis, the underside 54 forms a compound curve that is generally dome-like.

[0036] The upper surface 50 may further include grip enhancements, such as a plurality of notches 56 formed along the top of each rib 20. Alternative grip enhancements may be provided and should be construed broadly to include any functionally equivalent manner, including but not limited to other textures, materials, or coatings for providing such functionality. 2. Operation of the Preferred Embodiment

[0037] In operation, the support board 10 can provide a dynamic board that promotes movement and muscle activation in a largely stationary environment. The planar upper surface 52 is formed with a series of elastically compressed ribs 20, providing a flexible plane that allows resistive bending around multiple spatial planes. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the devices described herein can be used in a variety of situations and environments, such as a platform for use in an office environment or as a balance board during therapy or fitness, but are described with the intent of encompassing the broad range of applications enabled by the structure, features, and functionality of the present invention and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present invention. Thus, the segmented flat upper surface can be stood on with or without shoes, and the grooves formed within the upper surface provide both traction and stimulation for the user's feet. Additionally, the movement of the ribs 20 about multiple planes and the rolling of the platform about its curved underside each facilitate motions that mimic a massage to stimulate good blood flow in the lower extremities.

[0038] The overall low vertical height allows the board 10 to be adapted for use at a standing desk or in any environment where the user is forced to remain in a standing position for long periods of time with little movement. The resistance provided around multiple axes stimulates the core muscles of the user, but at the same time in a manner that does not distract the user from being productive. These features, when implemented in normal use, can address the issues associated with a life of little movement and can increase the speed and quality of ankle rehabilitation programs without distracting people from what they need and want to do. Using the dynamic flexion board in this way allows for controlled angular movements of the lower limbs that mimic the range of motion of walking to activate muscles and joints, strengthen the core, enable proper posture, and promote non-exercise thermogenesis (NEAT).

[0039] By providing the ability to "move" these muscles and joints during work and leisure activities that would otherwise typically have little movement (sitting or standing), such benefits can be generated in a variety of contexts, such as during work activities (working while sitting or standing, working while sitting, reading, brainstorming, phone calls, face-to-face meetings, etc.), leisure activities (using social media, reading, watching TV / videos, gaming, socializing, listening to music / podcasts, etc.), or rehabilitation applications. By facilitating increased overall compliance and effectiveness of ankle rehabilitation programs, the use of the Dynamic Flexion Board allows for faster and more complete recovery. Enabling all-directional movement of the ankle joint (plantarflexion, dorsiflexion, inversion, eversion) simultaneously activates the surrounding muscles, tendons and ligaments to reduce stiffness, increase strength, improve range of motion, increase endurance, and improve proprioception. Controlled movement of the ankle joint allows swelling and oozing to subside more quickly. Gentle use of the anterior and posterior muscles throughout the leg promotes increased circulation. Improved circulation moves unhealthy fluids out and healthy blood and nutrients into the injury, helping the injury heal completely and quickly.

[0040] Designed for multitasking, the present invention can be used in conjunction with a variety of work and leisure activities that would otherwise be considered largely immobile. The exercises provided improve ankle strength, endurance, flexibility, and range of motion, allowing people to continue rehabilitating their ankles during normal daily activities, thus compensating for lack of time, forgetfulness, and neglect that typically result in people not performing a home exercise routine to rehabilitate their ankles, affecting the duration and quality of recovery and increasing the chances of future re-injury.

[0041] Also, by providing the ability to achieve dorsiflexion and plantar flexion that mimic the motion of walking, the range of motion can be extended to a greater extent to better stretch and strengthen ligaments and supporting muscles and promote blood circulation. Such use can prevent joint (ankle and knee) locking due to inactivity and promote non-exercise activity thermogenesis (NEAT), or the energy expended for all activities that are not sleeping, eating, or structured exercise (i.e., walking, cleaning, gardening, washing dishes, stretching).

[0042] The foregoing description of certain embodiments of the present invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. The title, background, summary, brief description of the drawings, and abstract of the present disclosure are hereby incorporated into the present disclosure and are provided as illustrative examples of the present disclosure, not as limiting descriptions. They are submitted with the understanding that they will not be used to limit the scope or meaning of the claims. In addition, it will be appreciated that in the detailed description, the description provides illustrative examples, and that various features are grouped together in various embodiments for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. This method of disclosure should not be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed subject matter requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive subject matter lies in less than all features of a single disclosed structure or operation. The following claims are incorporated into the detailed description, with each claim standing on its own as separately claimed subject matter.

Claims

1. A support board comprising a flexible plane that enables resistance bending around a plurality of spatial planes, a plurality of straight ribs stacked parallel to each other and adapted such that each of the plurality of straight ribs can move about a lateral central pivot hinge, the lateral central pivot hinge passing through each straight rib to provide a pivot point for movement along a lateral central axis, and a compression element for pressing the plurality of straight ribs against each other and providing a biasing force to each rib to return to a rest position around the pivot hinge when bent, the support board comprising the above components.

2. The support board according to claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of ribs is formed from a structurally integral part.

3. The support board according to claim 1, wherein each rib has an overall lateral contour similar to an arc segment.

4. The support board according to claim 2, wherein each rib has an overall lateral contour similar to an arc segment.

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

6. The support board according to claim 1, wherein the compression element compresses a plurality of parallel ribs, provides a biasing force offset with respect to a lateral axis, thereby providing a rebounding effect to keep the ribs parallel, and provides resistance to the rotation of the ribs.

7. The support board according to claim 2, wherein the compression element compresses a plurality of parallel ribs, provides a biasing force offset with respect to a lateral axis, thereby providing a rebounding effect to keep the ribs parallel, and provides resistance to the rotation of the ribs.

8. The support board according to claim 3, wherein the compression element compresses a plurality of parallel ribs, provides a biasing force offset with respect to a lateral axis, thereby providing a rebounding effect to keep the ribs parallel, and provides resistance to the rotation of the ribs.

9. The support board according to claim 4, wherein the compression element compresses a plurality of parallel ribs, provides a biasing force offset with respect to a lateral axis, thereby providing a rebounding effect to keep the ribs parallel, and provides resistance to the rotation of the ribs.

10. The support board according to claim 5, wherein the compression element compresses a plurality of parallel ribs, provides a biasing force offset with respect to the lateral axis, thereby providing a rebound effect that keeps the ribs parallel, and provides resistance to rotation of the ribs.

11. A substantially flat upper surface, And a lower surface that is curved as a whole along the straight center line and along the lateral center line, The support board according to claim 1, further comprising.

12. A substantially flat upper surface, And a lower surface that is curved as a whole along the straight center line and along the lateral center line, The support board according to claim 2, further comprising.

13. A substantially flat upper surface, And a lower surface that is curved as a whole along the straight center line and along the lateral center line, The support board according to claim 3, further comprising.

14. A substantially flat upper surface, And a lower surface that is curved as a whole along the straight center line and along the lateral center line, The support board according to claim 4, further comprising.

15. A substantially flat upper surface, And a lower surface that is curved as a whole along the straight center line and along the lateral center line, The support board according to claim 5, further comprising.

16. A substantially flat upper surface, And a lower surface that is curved as a whole along the straight center line and along the lateral center line, The support board according to claim 6, further comprising.

17. A substantially flat upper surface, And a lower surface that is curved as a whole along the straight center line and along the lateral center line, The support board according to claim 7, further comprising.

18. A substantially flat upper surface, And a lower surface that is curved as a whole along the straight center line and along the lateral center line, The support board according to claim 8, further comprising.

19. A substantially flat upper surface, And a lower surface that is curved as a whole along the straight center line and along the lateral center line, The support board according to claim 9, further comprising.

20. A substantially flat upper surface, And a lower surface that is curved as a whole along the straight center line and along the lateral center line, The support board according to claim 10, further comprising.

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