Portable rebounding device with force adjustment assembly

Abstract

To provide a portable compressible rebounding device that is adjustable to meet different user needs for generating swinging motion while seated.SOLUTION: A rebounding device includes a front member, a rear member, and a spring mechanism including a first biasing element and force adjustment assembly. The force adjustment assembly includes a spring element including a front planar surface and a rear planar surface connected at a rounded portion, wherein the front planar surface contacts an inner surface of the front member; a screw housing secured to an inner surface of the rear member, wherein the screw housing includes a longitudinal channel and a bore on an upper surface; a drive screw positioned through the bore and along the longitudinal channel of the screw housing; a threaded block positioned within the longitudinal channel of the screw housing, wherein the threaded block is configured to move vertically along the longitudinal channel, and wherein the rear planar surface of the spring element is secured to the threaded block.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application includes an international PCT application which claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 084,947, filed September 29, 2020, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] The present subject matter relates generally to portable rebound devices. More specifically, the present invention relates to a rebound device used against a stationary surface to generate a rebound motion, the rebound motion including a mechanism for adjusting the force of the rebound motion. [Background technology]

[0003] Rocking is a familiar part of everyday life. While the many proven benefits of rocking have been established for centuries, modern medicine is discovering new motives and additional reasons for rocking. One of the best-known uses of rocking is to soothe babies. The gentle bouncing motion mimics the movements a baby felt in its mother's womb and can soothe infants, help lull a child to sleep, or aid during babysitting, and reduce crying during nighttime crying. Rhythmic movement also helps build better attachment bonds between parents and children and aids newborn development by stimulating both motor and sensory development.

[0004] Rocking for personal benefit is a safe activity and option for people with sedentary lifestyles or limited physical mobility, including many older adults, those suffering from injuries or chronic illnesses, or those who sit for long periods of time. Rocking has proven benefits, including relief from arthritis and back pain, improved muscle tone, improved balance, and increased circulation. Studies have shown that Alzheimer's disease patients who rock regularly show significant improvements in depression, anxiety, and balance, as well as a decrease in the use of pain medications.

[0005] Research has shown that rocking can increase psychological well-being in people suffering from dementia, anxiety, and depression due to the mood-boosting endorphins it releases. Further research suggests that rocking's benefits provide comfort and can complement active treatments for anxiety, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and autism. For example, studies of ADHD patients have shown that rocking exercises, such as intensity and frequency, correlate with accuracy in cognitively demanding tasks requiring full attention. Research has also shown that vestibular rehabilitation therapy, such as rocking, can help patients with vestibular dysfunction, such as episodes of vertigo and dizziness. Rocking can also be a low-energy form of exercise to increase blood flow in people experiencing physical limitations, such as the elderly and those with limited mobility or physical disabilities. Health experts recommend some form of exercise to increase circulation and muscle movement during prolonged periods of sitting or lying down. Rocking has also been shown to help people fall asleep faster, spend more time in non-REM sleep, and improve memory consolidation.

[0006] Rocking can also improve pain management by calming the parasympathetic nervous system. It also improves cognitive processing by calming the brain and promoting focus and the ability to think logically.

[0007] However, prolonged rocking in a seated position cannot be comfortably performed even for short periods, let alone long periods, without an external device, such as a rocking chair, to assist in repeated exercise. Continuous rocking over long periods without assistance also places significant strain on muscles and joints. Existing solutions are extremely limited in their implementation, versatility, and flexibility of use. Operating conditions and other utility requirements often prevent users from using existing devices when and where rocking assistance is most needed. The use of conventional rocking furniture is limited in that it cannot be easily moved from room to room and cannot accompany the user during movement.

[0008] Furthermore, traditional rocking solutions require a large amount of floor space, making them unsuitable for use in small rooms, and can be difficult to store when not in use. While some hospitals and daycare centers equip parents, staff, and caregivers with rockers or gliders, providing a rocker or glider in every room is expensive and problematic for facilities operating on limited budgets. Smaller options for rocking infants include cradles, bouncers, or cradles, but these options separate the infant from the caregiver, limiting the ability to simultaneously hold, nurse, or easily feed the infant while rocking.

[0009] Furthermore, conventional rocking solutions cannot be combined with other existing furniture, such as a sofa or bed, thus preventing users from utilizing such furniture when rocking is required to hold, feed, or soothe an infant. Many mothers prefer to nurse while sitting upright in bed, especially at night, but must choose between the comfort of a bed and the functionality of rocking furniture, since nothing allows for both at the same time.

[0010] Traditional rocking solutions also present a problem: a lack of adaptability to the furniture's user. For example, a rocking chair may be perfectly comfortable for adult use but may be too strenuous for the elderly, those recovering from surgery, those with disabilities, or those with physical challenges. While the force required to generate a full backward and forward cycle on a rocker or glider can be easily achieved by leaning a larger, heavier body backward, smaller individuals, those with pre-existing conditions, and / or the elderly may need to repeatedly push off the ground with their legs to generate motion. With traditional rocking chairs and gliders, achieving a partial rocking cycle or more delicate movements can be difficult if the user or child prefers a gentler rebound rhythm. The user's body size, shape, and condition, as well as the user's personal preferences, affect the amount or magnitude of force required when utilizing rocking furniture, making traditional rocking furniture unable to accommodate the varied needs of multiple users.

[0011] Finally, conventional rocking solutions are not adjustable to accommodate a variety of users with different sizes, shapes, and rocking needs. For example, because gliders move in response to the amount of force applied, a small, lightweight person may not be able to generate enough rocking force, while a large, heavy person may have no problem generating rocking force. Elderly people may need to generate rocking motion with even less weight. Therefore, a single rocking device may not be able to provide the appropriate amount of rocking force for a variety of body types and builds.

[0012] Therefore, there is a need for a portable compressible rebound device, as described herein, for generating a rocking motion while in a seated position that can be adjusted to accommodate the needs of different users. Summary of the Invention

[0013] To meet these and other needs, the present disclosure provides a rebound device that includes an adjustable spring mechanism to accommodate users of different sizes, shapes, and needs. The rebound device described herein includes a front member and a back member with a spring mechanism disposed therebetween, the spring mechanism including a force adjustment assembly. During use, a user positions the back member of the rebound device against a stationary object, such as a chair or a wall. The user places their back against the front member and applies pressure to create a gentle rocking motion. When compressed, the rebound device exerts a biasing force that gently propels the user's upper body forward while maintaining a seated position. The biasing force is determined in part by the setting of the adjustable mechanism.

[0014] In one embodiment, the resilience device includes a front member, a rear member, and a spring mechanism positioned between the front and rear members. The spring mechanism includes first and second elongated spring elements, each including a front planar surface and a rear planar surface integral with a rounded portion. Each spring element operates as a leaf spring, with the front and rear planar surfaces moving toward and away from each other around the rounded portion.

[0015] Each of the spring elements has a front planar surface that twists inward toward the rear planar surface to form a curve that accommodates the user's back. The front member is secured to the spring element's front planar surface and includes a curvature that complements the curvature of the front planar surface. The rear member is secured to the spring element's rear planar surface. During use, the user's back comfortably abuts against the curved front member and inclined front planar surface, and the rear member and rear flat portion abut against a rest surface.

[0016] The force adjustment assembly includes a third spring element that, like the first and second spring elements, operates as a leaf spring, with its front and rear planar surfaces moving toward and away from each other. The third spring element moves vertically along the height of the rear member between a lowest position adjacent the rounded portions of the first and second spring elements and an uppermost position distal to the rounded portions of the first and second spring elements. The adjustable mechanism includes a guide track secured to the inner surface of the front member and a screw housing attached to the inner surface of the rear member. The guide track on the front member receives the front planar surface of the third spring element during use.

[0017] The adjustment is effected by moving the rear surface of the third spring element along the length of the screw housing. More specifically, the screw block is secured to the rear 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 screw block may be secured to the rear surface via a screw or other attachment mechanism, or may be integrally formed with the spring element.

[0018] The drive screw extends through a screw housing cover attached to the screw housing and extends through a hole in the screw housing cover so that the shaft of the drive screw extends into the channel. The drive screw is fixed in place via bearings on opposite ends of the screw. A user can rotate the screw within the channel of the screw housing by rotating a knob attached to the top end of the drive screw outside the screw housing.

[0019] Within the channel, the shaft of the drive screw extends through a threaded hole in the screw block such that rotation of the drive screw moves the screw block vertically within the channel. A user manually rotates a knob secured to the drive screw to adjust the positioning of the screw block within the channel, which in turn moves the rear surface of the third screw element vertically along the channel.

[0020] The positioning of the spring elements of the force adjustment assembly alters the repulsive or biasing force provided by the repulsion device. For example, in one exemplary embodiment, the first and second spring elements alone provide approximately 25 and 30 pounds of repulsive force. The addition of a third spring element of the adjustable mechanism increases the repulsive force to 30-60 pounds, depending on the positioning of the third spring element of the force adjustment assembly. In other embodiments, the spring mechanism 106, with or without the force adjustment assembly, can provide smaller or larger minimum, maximum, and / or repulsive force ranges.

[0021] With reference to the embodiment shown herein, when the third spring element of the adjustable mechanism is positioned in its lowest position adjacent to the rounded portions of the first and second spring elements, the applied reaction force is minimal. As the third spring element gradually moves to its highest position, the amount of additional reaction force gradually increases. The user can adjust the biasing force using small incremental changes to increase or decrease the pounds of biasing force provided by the device. When the third spring element of the adjustable mechanism is positioned in its highest position distal to the rounded portions of the first and second spring elements, the applied reaction force is greatest. The device can provide a biasing force in the range of approximately 30 to 60 pounds, and the adjustable mechanism allows the user to use the device to select the exact force appropriate for their particular body size, shape, and condition.

[0022] In one embodiment, the front and rear members include front and rear flexible materials that extend between the front and rear planar surfaces of the pair of first and second spring elements, respectively. The front and rear flexible materials are tightly stretched between the respective front and rear pairs of planar front and rear portions of the first and second members, respectively, such that pressure applied to the materials causes the planar front portions to move toward the respective rear planar portions. Foam padding or other thick material can be secured to each of the front and rear members and / or the flexible materials.

[0023] It is an object of the present invention to provide a solution for adjusting the intensity of the rebound action provided by a rebound device and maintaining a smooth rebound action throughout the range of available intensities.

[0024] Another object of the present invention is to provide a solution that allows a single rebound device to be used by multiple people with different shapes, sizes, and rebound exercise needs.

[0025] A further advantage of the present invention is that it allows for a single rebound device to be used in a wide variety of environments, from childcare providers to elderly care providers.

[0026] An advantage of the present invention is that it provides a portable repulsion device that can be easily carried from one location to another, takes up little space, and can be easily stored when not in use.

[0027] Another advantage of the present invention is that it can be used with almost any existing furniture or support surface, allowing the user to sit anywhere that has a support surface that is deemed comfortable and rock continuously while holding the infant.

[0028] A further advantage of the present invention is that it provides a solution to rocking motion needs that is significantly less expensive than conventional rocking solutions.

[0029] Additional objects, advantages and novel features of the embodiments will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon examination of the following description and the accompanying drawings, or may be learned by the practice or operation of the embodiments. The objects and advantages of the concepts may be realized and attained by means of the methodologies, instrumentalities and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims.

[0030] The drawings illustrate, by way of example only, and not by way of limitation, one or more implementations consistent with the concepts of the present invention.In the drawings, like reference numerals refer to the same or similar elements. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0031] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a rebound device including a force adjustment assembly of the present application, showing the outer casing.

[0032] [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a side view of the rebound device of FIG. 1.

[0033] [Figure 3] 2 is a top view of the front plane of the spring element of the rebound device of FIG. 1; FIG.

[0034] [Figure 4] 2 shows the rebound device of FIG. 1 in a decompressed position. [Figure 5] 2 shows the rebound device of FIG. 1 in a partially compressed position. [Figure 6] 2 shows the rebound device of FIG. 1 in a compressed position.

[0035] [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of the internal components of the rebound device with force adjustment assembly of FIG. 1.

[0036] [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a front view of the internal components of the rebound device of FIG. 1.

[0037] [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a rear view of the internal components of the rebound device of FIG. 1.

[0038] [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a top view of the internal components of the repulsion device of FIG. 1.

[0039] [Figure 11] FIG. 2 is a bottom view of the internal components of the repulsion device of FIG. 1.

[0040] [Figure 12]2 is a front view of the first and second spring elements of the repulsion device of FIG. 1; FIG.

[0041] [Figure 13] 2 is a plan view of the first and second spring elements of the repulsion device of FIG. 1; FIG.

[0042] [Figure 14] 2 is a bottom view of the first and second spring elements of the repulsion device of FIG. 1; FIG.

[0043] [Figure 15] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a force adjustment assembly of the rebound device of FIG. 1;

[0044] [Figure 16] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a force adjustment assembly of the rebound device of FIG. 1;

[0045] [Figure 17] 16 is a cross-sectional view of the force adjustment assembly of the rebound device of FIG. 1 taken generally along line AA of FIG. 15.

[0046] [Figure 18] FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of a screw housing of the force adjustment assembly of the rebound device of FIG. 1; [Figure 19] FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of a screw housing of the force adjustment assembly of the rebound device of FIG. 1; [Figure 20] FIG. 2 is a front view of the screw housing of the force adjustment assembly of the rebound device of FIG. 1; [Figure 21] FIG. 2 is a side view of a screw housing of the force adjustment assembly of the rebound device of FIG. 1;

[0047] [Figure 22] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a screw block of the force adjustment assembly of the rebound device of FIG. 1;

[0048] [Figure 23] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a guide track of the force adjustment assembly of the rebound device of FIG. 1; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0049] 1-23 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a rebound device 100. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 7, the rebound 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 within an outer casing 107. In the illustrated embodiment, the spring mechanism 106 includes first and second spring elements 110, 112 and a force adjustment assembly 114.

[0050] During use, the back member 104 rests against a solid surface, as shown in FIGS. 5-7. The user places their back against the front member 102 and applies pressure to generate a gentle rocking motion. The user positions the rebound device 100 between their back and a support surface, such as a bed headboard, sofa back, airplane seat, or wall. The rebound device 100 exerts a biasing force via the spring mechanism 106 upon compression, which propels the user's upper body forward while maintaining a seated position. The combination of the biasing force of the rebound device 100 against the user's weight generates momentum that allows for continued bouncing with little effort for extended periods of time while rocking an infant or themselves for personal relaxation, activity, or comfort. The spring mechanism 106 of the illustrated rebound device 100 includes a force adjustment assembly 114, described in more detail below, that allows the user to adjust the amount of rebound force provided by the device 100.

[0051] 7-23 show the internal components of the resilience device 100. As seen most clearly in FIGS. 7, 10, and 11, the front member 102 has a concave curvature between the first spring element 110 and the second spring element 112. The back member 102 is flat between the first spring element 110 and the second spring element 112. Each of the front member 102 and the back member 104 may be metal, such as aluminum, plastic, or any suitable material. In other embodiments, a single spring element or three or more spring elements may be used.

[0052] 12-14 illustrate the curvature of the spring elements 110, 112. Each of the first and second spring elements 110, 112 has an elongated shape including a length L and a width W, where the length L is greater than the width W, and extends between a front end portion 110a, 112a and a rear end portion 110b, 112b. Each elongated spring element 110, 112 is oriented along an axis C. L1 It is curved around the axis C. L1 is parallel to the width of each spring element 110, 112 along the rear end portion 110b, 112b and spaced from the midpoint along the length L, separating the length L of the spring elements 110, 112 into a front planar surface 110c, 112c and a rear planar surface 110d, 112d by rounded portions 110e, 112e. The front planar surface 110c, 112c and the rear planar surface 110d, 112d extend adjacent to each other but at a slight angle away from each other when in an abutting position. The rounded portions 110e, 112e function as a spring leaf mechanism that enables the rebound device 100 to provide a rebound motion.

[0053] As best shown in Figures 12 and 13, the front ends 110a, 112a of each front planar surface 110c, 112c are twisted relative to junctions 110f, 112f where the front planar surfaces 110c, 112c meet the rounded portions 110e, 112e. The inner edges 110g, 112g of each front end 110a, 112a are twisted inward toward the respective rear planar surfaces to form cradles for receiving the user's back, as shown in Figure X. The outer edges 110j, 112j of each front end 110a, 112a are twisted outward from the respective rear planar surfaces to further form the cradles.

[0054] 7, the rear planar surfaces 110d, 112d of each spring element 110, 112 are flat and flush with each other to apply an equal pressure distribution to the rest surface. During use, the user's back rests comfortably against the curved front member 102 and the angled front planar surfaces 110c, 112c, and the rear planar surfaces 110d, 112d rest against the rest surface.

[0055] In one embodiment, each elongated spring element 110, 112 can have a width W ranging from about 1.5 inches to about 2.5 inches, although the width may vary as desired and may vary throughout the length L. Each spring element 110, 112 can also have a thickness T ranging from about 0.125 inches to about 0.25 inches, formed by a single layer or multiple laminations. In the illustrated embodiment, the width W and thickness T of the spring elements 110, 112 vary along the length L, being smaller at the rounded portions 110e, 112e than at the front and rear ends 110b, 112b. In other embodiments, the width W and thickness T of the spring elements 110, 112 can vary based on the manufacturing process and / or as desired.

[0056] The first and second spring elements 110, 112 may be constructed from any material that is strong enough to structurally support a person's weight while providing sufficient resilience to allow repeated rebound motions. Exemplary metallic materials include aluminum, aluminum alloys such as 6061T6, preferably but not necessarily having a T6 temper, steel, and steel alloys such as AISI 5160. The device may also be made from plastics such as polyvinyl chloride, carbon fiber composites, or wood materials.

[0057] 7 and 15-23, the spring mechanism 106 of the illustrated embodiment also includes a force adjustment assembly 114 positioned at a midpoint along the width of the front member 102, rear member 104 between the first spring element 110 and the second spring element 112. The force adjustment assembly 114 includes a third spring element 116 similar to the first and second spring elements 110, 112. The third spring element 116 has an elongated shape including a length L and a width W, where the length L is greater than the width W and extends between a front end 116a and a rear end portion 116b. The length of the third spring element 116 is C as shown in FIG. L2 An axis C parallel to and spaced apart from the midpoint along the length L L2and a rounded portion 116e separates the length L of the third spring element 116 into a front planar surface 116c and a rear planar surface 116d that are adjacent to each other but extend apart at a slight angle when in the abutting position.

[0058] The rounded portion 116e of the third spring element 116 functions as an additional spring leaf mechanism that provides additional repulsive force to that provided by the first and second spring elements 110, 112. This positioning of the third spring element 116 modifies the strength or bias of the repulsive device 100 by adding to the force exerted by the first and second spring elements 110, 112.

[0059] Rounded portion 116e may include a reinforcing spring element 117 secured thereto. Reinforcing spring element 117 has a length that extends along rounded portion 116e of spring element 116. In one embodiment, reinforcing spring element 117 is welded or otherwise secured to rounded portion 116e.

[0060] In one embodiment, the first and second spring elements 110, 112 alone provide a reaction force of approximately 27 and 30 pounds. The addition of the third spring element 116 of the force adjustment assembly 114 increases the reaction force to 30-60 pounds when the third spring element 116 is in its lowest and highest positions, respectively.

[0061] When the third spring element 116 is positioned in the lowest position, the repulsion device 100 operates primarily using the first and second spring elements 110, 112, since a significant amount of force is required to engage the third spring element 116. The central axis C of the rounded portion 116e of the third spring element 116 L2 The central axes C of the rounded portions 110e, 112e of the first and second spring elements 110, 112 are L1 , the third spring element 116 is the hardest to reach. In this positioning, the least amount of additional resilience is provided.

[0062] As the third spring element 116 gradually moves to its uppermost position, the amount of additional repulsive force gradually increases. When the third spring element 116 is in its uppermost position, the maximum amount of additional repulsive force is provided. The central axis C of the rounded portion 116e of the third spring element 116 L2 However, the central axes C of the rounded portions 110e, 112e of the first and second spring elements 110, 112 L1 When at a maximum offset from the third spring element 116, the rounded portion 116e of the third spring element 116 can provide a maximum amount of additional resilience.

[0063] The user can adjust the biasing force using small incremental changes to increase or decrease the pounds of biasing force provided by force adjustment assembly 114. Force adjustment assembly 114 allows the user to select the exact force appropriate for the particular size, shape, and condition of the body using the device.

[0064] In other embodiments, the spring mechanism 106 may include first and second adjustment mechanisms on the first and second spring elements 110, 112, with or without the addition of a force adjustment assembly 114. Each of the first and second spring elements may comprise an adjustable torsion spring having a pre-loaded setting attached to a rotatable knob, for example. In some embodiments, the adjustable torsion spring is secured to the elongated elements 110, 112 via a frame attached thereto. In other embodiments, the adjustable torsion spring is provided in place of the elongated elements 110, 112 and secured to the front and back members 102, 104.

[0065] 15, adjustment of the biasing force of the force adjustment assembly 114 is accomplished by moving the rear planar surface 116d of the third spring element 116 along a longitudinal channel 118a in a screw housing 118 attached to the inner surface 104a of the rear member 104. The force adjustment assembly 114 also includes a guide track 121 fixed to the inner surface 102a of the front member 102 for receiving the front planar surface 116c of the third spring element 116.

[0066] 18-21, screw housing 118 has an elongated shape extending between upper and lower base portions 118b, 118c. Screw housing 118 is secured to rear member 104 by screws extending through pairs of upper and lower holes 118e, 118f provided in upper and lower base portions 118b, 118c, respectively, although any other suitable attachment means may be used as desired or required for manufacturing needs.

[0067] 16, the screw housing cover 122 is secured to a correspondingly shaped platform 118d on the upper base 118b of the screw housing. The screw housing cover 122 includes holes 122a that align with the longitudinal channels 118a of the screw housing 118. The screw housing cover 122 can be secured to the screw housing 118 via screws, adhesive, or any other suitable means for securing.

[0068] A drive screw 124 is positioned within bore 122a and extends into longitudinal channel 118a as shown in Figures 16 and 17. The positioning of drive screw 124 within screw housing 118 is fixed via bearings 126a, 126b on opposite ends of drive screw 124. A threaded screw 128 connects knob 130 to upper end 124 of drive screw 124 above screw housing cover 122.

[0069] As shown in FIGS. 16 and 22 , the screw block 132 includes an inner portion 132a positioned within the longitudinal channel 118a of the screw housing 118 and an outer portion 132b disposed outside the screw housing 118. The width profile of the inner portion 132a along its width corresponds to the cross-sectional shape of the longitudinal channel 118a, and a screw hole 132c extends through the inner portion 132 parallel to the height of the channel 118b to receive the shaft 124b of the drive screw 124a. In one embodiment, the height of the drive screw 124 is approximately 120 mm to approximately 123 mm, and the height of the inner portion 132a of the screw block 132 is approximately 25 mm. In other embodiments, the dimensions may vary as needed or desired. A cover element may be secured onto the rear planar surface 116d of the third spring element 116, with a screw extending through the cover element, the rear planar surface 116d of the third spring element 116, and the screw block 132. Rotation of the drive screw 124 within the channel 118 causes the screw block 132 to move along the shaft 124 a of the drive screw 124 .

[0070] 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 so that the outer portion 132b moves with the inner portion 132a as the inner portion 132a moves along the drive screw 124. 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 secured to the screw block 132 via screws and adhesive or other attachment mechanisms, or may be integrally formed with the third spring element 116. Rotation of the drive screw 124 causes the screw block 132 to move vertically along the screw housing 118, thereby causing the third spring element 116 to move vertically along the screw housing 118.

[0071] As shown in the embodiment shown in FIG. 16, the screw housing 118 can include a notch or marking 118g along the outer surface 118h adjacent the longitudinal channel 118a so that a user can easily reference the positioning of the screw block 132 along the channel 118a and note that notch 118a or positioning for future reference.

[0072] 23 shows the base element 121a and cover element 121b of the guide track 121 secured to the inner surface 102a of the front member 102. The base element 121a includes a recessed track 121c between the first and second raised sides 121d, 121e, through which a screw or other attachment means may extend. The cover element 121b provides a protective structure around the track 121c, allowing the front surface 116c of the third spring element 116 to move unimpeded along the track 121c during use. A notch 121f in the cover element 121b is provided to allow the third spring element 116 to move fully up and down along the screw housing 118.

[0073] During use, a user positions the back 104 of the device 100 against a stationary object, such as a chair, wall, or tree, as shown in FIGS. 4-6. The user places their back against the front member 102 and applies pressure to create a gentle rocking motion, moving the rebound device 100 between its minimum and maximum compressed positions. The user can adjust the biasing force as desired by rotating the knob 132 of the force adjustment assembly 114. In FIG. 4, the rebound device 100 is in its minimum compressed position, with the front member 102 furthest from the back member 104. FIG. 5 shows the rebound device 100 in a partially compressed position, with the front member 102 halfway to the back member 104. FIG. 6 shows the rebound device 100 in its maximum compressed position, with the front member 102 closest to the back member 104. When compressed, the spring mechanism 106 exerts a biasing force that propels the user's upper body forward while maintaining a seated position.

[0074] Foam padding, a rubber material such as natural latex, or other thick cushioning material may be secured to the front member 102 or flexible material and optionally encapsulated within an outer housing material 107, as shown in FIGS. 1-3. The housing material 107 may extend around the entire rebound device 100, be limited to enclosing the front member 102 and front planar surfaces 110c, 112c of the spring elements 110, 112, and the rear member 104 and rear planar surfaces 110d, 112d of the spring elements 110, 112, or another selected portion of the rebound device 100. The housing material 107 may be a plastic, such as polyvinyl chloride, a carbon fiber composite material, a leather material, or any other suitable material. In some embodiments, the housing may also include multiple layers, including one or more of a cushioning material, a rubber material, a para-aramid synthetic fiber material such as Kevlar, and an outer layer of fabric or leather. In yet further embodiments, the front and back members 102, 104 can each comprise a fabric material including tubular portions for receiving the front and back flat portions of the spring elements, the dimensions of the fabric front and back members being sufficiently taut to support the weight and rebound force of the user.

[0075] In other embodiments, the components of the rebound device 100 may be integrally formed. For example, the front member 102, the back member 104, and the first and second spring elements 110, 112 may be integrally formed. In one embodiment, the rebound device 100 may be constructed from a metal, such as an aluminum alloy, and may be stamped, laser cut, water-jet, or otherwise cut and pressed from a sheet of material. In other embodiments, the rebound device 100 may include a wood material that is molded to form. In a further embodiment, the rebound device 100 may be a polyvinyl chloride material that is molded to form, such as by injection molding. The materials and manufacturing methods may vary based on the manufacturing process or as desired.

[0076] In further embodiments, spring mechanism 106 can be modified to include one or more reinforcing spring elements that provide additional resilience and / or strength to account for heavier users. The number, location, and position of the reinforcing elements may vary as desired, or in some embodiments, based on user preference. In some embodiments, the first, second, and third spring elements 110, 112, 116 and / or reinforcing spring elements added to any portion of spring mechanism 106 may be adjustable.

[0077] For example, reinforcing spring elements, such as reinforcing spring element 117 described above with respect to third spring element 116, may be secured to rounded portions 110e, 112e of first and second spring elements 110, 112. Each reinforcing spring element has a length that extends along rounded portions 110e, 112e of spring elements 110, 112. In one embodiment, the reinforcing spring elements are welded or otherwise secured to the respective rounded portions 110e, 112e. In other embodiments, the reinforcing spring elements may be snapped into place or added in other ways as needed.

[0078] In other embodiments, the reinforcing spring elements may be secured along the inner surfaces of the rounded portions 110e, 112e of the first and second spring elements 110, 112. Such reinforcing spring elements may be attached to the first and second spring elements 110, 112 via frame components, where the reinforcing elements are positioned along, but not secured to, the inner surfaces of the rounded portions 110e, 112e, 116e. The frame may include components connected to the front member 102, the back member 104, and / or the spring elements 110, 112, 116.

[0079] In a further embodiment, the stiffening element comprises an adjustable torsion spring. In a further embodiment, the stiffening spring element may comprise one or more torsion springs, one or more leaf springs, or Z-springs secured to the inner surface 104a of the back member 104 between the spring elements 110, 112. In this embodiment, the leaf springs may be secured to the inner surface 104a of the back member 104 and may provide resistance to the front member 102 only when a significant amount of pressure is applied to the front member 102 by a user during use.

[0080] In other embodiments, one or more reinforcing spring elements are added in one or more of the following locations: inside or outside of the rounded portions 110 e, 112 e of the spring elements 110, 112; between the front planar surface 110 c, 112 c and the rear planar surface 110 d, 112 d of each spring element 110, 112; and between the front and rear members 102, 104. The use of a reinforcing spring element(s) allows the rebound device 100 to be used by heavier people and extends the life of the spring elements 110, 112. The ability to optionally add and / or adjust reinforcing spring elements also allows the rebound device to be purchased for a single household use and used by people of various sizes.

[0081] In yet another embodiment, the rebound device 100 may include first and second rubber guards that extend along the rounded portions 110e, 112e of the spring members 110, 112. The rubber guards may include tread portions that prevent the rebound device 100 from sliding on a floor, chair seat, or other surface during use.

[0082] The rebound device 100 may also include first and second structural members that support the rebound device so that it can be used independently without being positioned against a structural support, such as a chair back or wall. In one embodiment, the first and second structural members are hingedly attached to the rear flats 116a, 116b of the first and second spring members 108a, 108b, respectively, to rotate between open and closed positions. In the closed position, the structural members are fixed to the rear flats 116a, 116b, allowing the rebound device 100 to be used against a structural surface, such as a chair or wall, as described above. When the structural members are in the open position, the structural members extend away from the rear flats 110d, 112d so that the rear flats 110d, 112d form an acute angle with the surface on which the rebound device 100 is positioned. A user can then lean against the rebound device 100 and generate a rocking motion without the need for furniture or other structural support.

[0083] The dimensions of the rebound device 100 may be varied to tailor the device to a particular application. For example, the width of the first and second spring elements 110, 112 of the rebound device 100 may be wider than shown herein to accommodate use in a wheelchair or hospital bed.

[0084] As discussed above, the rebound device can be used for a variety of purposes, from rocking babies to sleep to the comfort and benefit of individuals with conditions 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 present invention and without diminishing its attendant advantages.

Claims

1. A repulsion device, A front member; A back member; A spring mechanism including a first biasing element and a force adjustment assembly, the force adjustment assembly comprising: a spring element including a front planar surface and a rear planar surface connected by a rounded portion, the front planar surface contacting an inner surface of the front member; a screw housing secured to the inner surface of the back member, the screw housing including a channel and a hole on an upper surface thereof; a drive screw positioned through the hole and along the channel of the screw housing; a screw block positioned within the longitudinal channel of the screw housing, the screw block configured to engage the drive screw and move vertically along the channel, the rear planar surface of the spring element secured to the screw block; a spring mechanism including: a repulsion device.

2. 2. The rebound device of claim 1, wherein the screw block includes an inner portion and an outer portion, the inner portion being disposed within the longitudinal channel of the screw housing and configured to move along the shaft of the drive screw, the outer portion being disposed outside the longitudinal channel, and the rear planar surface of the spring element being attached to the outer portion.

3. 2. The rebound device of claim 1, wherein the force adjustment assembly comprises a screw housing cover including a hole, the screw housing cover being positioned on the upper base of the screw housing such that the hole is aligned with the longitudinal channel.

4. 2. The rebound device of claim 1, wherein the drive screw includes first and second bearings positioned at first and second ends of the drive screw, and a knob secured to the first end of the drive screw via a threaded screw.

5. 2. The repulsion device of claim 1, wherein the biasing element includes second and third spring elements each having a length and a width, the length being greater than the width, and the second and third spring elements being curved about an axis parallel to the width.

6. 6. The rebound device of claim 5, wherein each of the first and second spring elements includes a front flat portion, a rear flat portion, and a rounded portion between the front and rear flat portions.

7. 7. The rebound device of claim 6, wherein a first front end of the front plane of the first spring element distal to the rounded portion is inclined relative to the width of the spring element along the rear plane and the rounded portion.

8. 8. The rebound device of claim 7, wherein a second front end of the front plane of the second spring element distal to the rounded portion is inclined relative to the width of the spring element along the rear plane and the rounded portion.

9. A repulsion device, A front member; A back member; A spring mechanism including a first spring element, a second spring element, and a force adjustment assembly, the force adjustment assembly comprising: a third spring element including a front planar surface and a rear planar surface connected by a rounded portion, the front planar surface contacting the inner surface of the front member; a screw housing secured to the inner surface of the back member, the screw housing including a longitudinal channel and a hole in an upper surface thereof; a drive screw positioned through the bore and along the longitudinal channel of the screw housing; a screw block positioned within the longitudinal channel of the screw housing, the screw block configured to move vertically along the longitudinal channel, the rear planar surface of the spring element secured to the screw block; movement of the spring element along the channel of the screw housing; a spring mechanism; a repulsion device.

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