Rotating rod apparatus for jumping games

Abstract

The invention relates to an apparatus (100, 101) for jumping games, comprising - a base unit (10) comprising a main motor (11) configured to rotate a shaft (3) oriented vertically in a service orientation of the apparatus (100), - a base (2) fastened to the shaft (3), and - a semi-rigid rod (1), the base (2) and the rod (1) being arranged in such a way that the rod (1) can be assembled to the base (2) in order to be able to be rotated about the shaft (3) while being inclined with reference to the latter.

Description

Description ROTATING ROD APPARATUS FOR JUMPING GAMES Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a device for jumping games comprising a rotating rod. State of the art

[0002] Jump rope games are very popular, both for their fun and the sporting aspect they present.

[0003] There are several gaming devices that are inspired by and reinterpret the jump rope to make it more fun and engaging, especially for today's children, who are used to electronic toys.

[0004] Some devices, such as those presented in documents CN110064160 A or AU2021102908 A, are limited to rotating a conventional rope around a horizontal axis while the user jumps to allow the rope to pass under their feet with each turn.

[0005] Others implement a rope or rod rotating in a horizontal plane (around a vertical axis), as seen in document CN114432639 A. Again, the user must jump each time the rod or rope passes.

[0006] There are many versions of this type of toy on the market, for example, the one shown in Figure 8 available online at this address: https: / / www.amazon.com / Electric-Skipping-Rechargeable-Electronic-Counting / dp / B0CCVB3RFL

[0007] In this last example, the rotating device comprises a semi-rigid rod attachable to a rotating axle, extended by a piece of fully flexible rope. During use, the flexible rope straightens thanks to the centrifugal force of the rotational movement. This, of course, requires a relatively high rotation frequency which is not suitable for the coordination level of a child younger than 5 years old and may present a risk of accident.

[0008] Other versions of this toy use a rotating rod that is rigid enough to stand on its own horizontally and can therefore rotate more slowly. However, such a rigid rod also presents a risk of accident, especially for younger children.

[0009] Beyond the safety issues, these prior art devices still offer a monotonous activity, consisting of jumping in the same way with each turn of the rod or rope. Children quickly get bored of this game and the parents' objectives of offering an activity that is both fun and sporty are not met for long. Disclosure of the invention

[0010] An objective of the present invention is to provide a device for jumping games offering better safety of use than those of the prior art, in particular for younger children.

[0011] A second objective of the present invention is to provide a jumping game apparatus with additional features, making the games more varied and engaging.

[0012] These objectives are fulfilled by the apparatuses presented in the claims, and explained in more detail in the following paragraphs with reference to the figures.

[0013] More specifically, the present invention relates to an apparatus for jumping games comprising: - a base unit comprising a main motor configured to drive the rotation of a vertically oriented shaft in a service orientation of the apparatus, - a base, fixed to the tree, and - a semi-rigid rod, in which the base and the rod are arranged in such a way that the rod can be assembled to the base so that it can be rotated around the shaft while being inclined with reference to the latter.

[0014] According to a preferred embodiment, it can be provided that the connection between the rod and the base is configured so as to allow relative movement between them when the rotational movement of the rod is hindered by the contact with an object external to the device, in particular by implementing an attraction between two magnets and / or an elastic band and / or a side provided at the free end of a first element among the rod or the base and defining the periphery of a housing to receive and retain the other element.

[0015] Advantageously, it can be provided that the flank has a free end whose cross section, along a plane substantially perpendicular to the direction of insertion of the other element into the housing, has a shape substantially complementary to the shape of the other element and extends over more than 180 degrees, and that at least a portion of the flank is elastically deformable to facilitate the assembly and removal of the rod.

[0016] In this case, it may further be provided that the elastically deformable portion of the flank carries at least one lug arranged to be able to cooperate with a suitable clearance provided in the other element to ensure the retention of the rod in the housing.

[0017] Generally speaking, it is preferable to provide that the angle defined by the inclination of the rod with reference to the shaft is adjustable, in particular in a range between -15° below the horizontal and +30° above the horizontal when the device is in its service orientation.

[0018] According to a preferred embodiment, it can be provided that the base is made integral with the shaft by means of an axis perpendicular to the shaft and allowing their relative pivoting, the angle between the rod and the shaft being adjustable by modifying the orientation of the base relative to the shaft around this axis.

[0019] According to additional preferred features of the present invention, it can be provided that the apparatus further comprises a support device interposed between, on the one hand, the rod or the base, and, on the other hand, the base unit or a support on which the apparatus is positioned during its use, to define a stop limiting the inclination of the rod in the direction of the base unit, and that the shaft is movable in its axial direction so as to modify the distance between the axis connecting the base to the shaft and the base unit.

[0020] In this case, it is advantageous to provide that the support device comprises a rolling mechanism configured to support at least part of the weight of the rod and / or the base while allowing its rotation around the shaft.

[0021] According to additional preferred features of the present invention, it can be provided that the rolling mechanism of the support device rests on a support surface integral with the base unit, preferably being provided on a cover of the base unit.

[0022] It is more preferably possible to provide that the rolling mechanism of the support device comprises a caster, the profile of which is generally rounded, arranged to roll on a substantially flat support surface of the cover during rotation of the shaft, and to slide on the support surface during axial movements of the shaft intended to modify the inclination of the rod.

[0023] Advantageously, it can be provided that the base unit comprises a second motor configured to control the movement of the shaft in its axial direction.

[0024] It may also be provided, in general, that the device further comprises a sensitive mat, connectable to the base unit, comprising at least one or preferably several sensitive zones, sensitive to contact or pressure exerted by a user on the surface of the sensitive zones.

[0025] In this case, it may more preferably be provided that the sensitive zones comprise at least two, preferably at least four, and more preferably at least twelve sensitive zones defined as angular sectors covering a circumference around a central point of the mat, the central point being configured to lie substantially on the axis of the shaft when the base unit is connected to the mat. Brief description of the figures

[0026] The figures in the appendix show: - Figs. 1 to 3: Different views of an example of an apparatus according to a preferred embodiment of the invention. - Fig. 4: Perspective and front views of construction details of the device according to the embodiment of Figs. 1 to 3. - Fig. 5: Perspective view of the device according to the embodiment of Figs. 1 to 3, further comprising a sensitive mat. - Figs. 6a, 6b: Views, respectively side and front, illustrating construction details of a device according to a variant of the embodiment of Figs. 1 to 3, in a first configuration. - Figs. 6c, 6d: Views, respectively side and front, illustrating construction details of a device according to the variant of Figs. 6a, 6b, in a second configuration. - Figs. 7a, 7b: Views, respectively side and front, illustrating additional construction details of a device according to the variant of Figs. 6a to 6d, in a first configuration. - Figs. 7c, 7d: Views, respectively side and front, illustrating additional construction details of a device according to the variant of Figs. 6a to 6d, in a second configuration. - Fig. 8: Screenshot of the above-mentioned web page, showing a prior art jumping game apparatus. Method(s) of carrying out the invention

[0027] Fig. 1 shows an example of an apparatus 100 for jumping games according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. In this example, the apparatus 100 comprises a semi-rigid rod 1, attached to a base 2, which is in turn attached to a vertical shaft 3, which can be rotated in its axial direction, causing with its movement the rotation of the rod 1 around a vertical axis.

[0028] The apparatus 100 further comprises a base unit 10 whose components will be detailed later. A service orientation of the apparatus 100 can be defined, when it is in working order, in which the base unit 10 is intended to be placed on a preferably horizontal support, preferably the ground - whether indoors or outdoors - the surface of the support thus defining a reference for the horizontal and vertical orientations used subsequently. Thus, for example, the shaft 3 is intended to be oriented in the vertical direction when the apparatus 100 is in its service orientation, involving a rotation of the rod 1 around a vertical axis when the device 100 is implemented.

[0029] Stem 1 is called “semi-rigid” to indicate that it is at the same time: - sufficiently rigid to be able to maintain its shape in a horizontal position, being held by one end, without being noticeably deformed by the action of gravity under its own weight, and - capable of bending elastically (i.e., without being broken or irreversibly deformed) under the action of a greater force, such as the weight of a child walking on it.

[0030] This semi-rigid property is conferred on the rod 1 by construction, in particular by a choice of suitable material, for example deformable materials, or even by geometric and / or construction considerations, and the person skilled in the art will not encounter any particular difficulty in implementing it according to his own needs and constraints.

[0031] It is advantageous to use a low-density material for the rod 1, in this way the rod can hold its light weight horizontally without deformation, while remaining very flexible, so as to deform easily in the event of accidental contact with the user of the device 100.

[0032] The semi-rigid rod 1 can advantageously be made from a lightweight, semi-rigid foam such as polyethylene foam. Certain plastics are also conceivable with varying degrees of rigidity, provided that it is sufficient to maintain the shape of the rod 1 in a horizontal position, held by one end, and that it does not break or deform irreversibly under the weight of a child accidentally stepping on it.

[0033] To enhance the safety of the apparatus 100, the semi-rigid rod 1 can be easily detached from the base 2 in the event of accidental contact with a user. For example, the rod 1 can be attached to the base 2 by the attraction of a pair of magnets, easily separable in the event of obstruction of the movement of the rod 1 when the base 2 is rotating.

[0034] Fig. 2 illustrates the possible separation between the rod 1 and the base 2 according to one embodiment of the apparatus 100. In this example, the rod 1 comprises a disc, at its end intended to cooperate with the base 2, which can take the form of a magnet 4 which can attach to another magnet (not shown) disposed within or at the end of the base 2. The magnetic moment of the magnets or the distance by which they approach each other when the rod 1 is mounted on the base 2 can be sized to allow easy detachment in the event of obstruction of the movement of the rod 1.

[0035] The connection between rod 1 and base 2 can also be implemented without magnets. For example, rod 1 can be fixed by inserting its end into base 2 by just a few millimeters. The low mechanical strength of such a fixing allows it to be undone at the slightest collision with an external object.

[0036] Advantageously, an elastic band 5 attached to the inside of the base 2 by one end and to the end of the rod 1 by the other end, can provide a flexible and permanent connection between the rod 1 and the base 2. Such a connection has the advantage of allowing relative movement between the rod 1 and the base 2 when an obstacle occurs, while allowing the rod 1 to be reinstated in its position mounted on the base 2 as soon as it is free of constraint.

[0037] It is also appropriate to provide the device 100 with a system for detecting the detachment of the rod 1 in order to allow the immediate stopping of the rotation of the shaft 3 when the rod 1 is detached, in particular following contact with a user. The same detection system can be configured to automatically restart the game as soon as the rod 1, free of constraint, is replaced in its service position on the base 2. Different detection systems can be implemented for this function. As non-limiting examples, a magnetic sensor (egHall effect) installed in the base 2, sensitive to the proximity of the magnet 4 of the rod 1, or a tension sensor of the elastic band 5 sensitive to its stretching when the rod 1 is detached, or an accelerometer in the base unit 10, sensitive to vibrations which would be caused by the impact of the rod 1 with an obstacle, or a current sensor on the power supply line of the motor which drives the rotation of the shaft 3 which would be sensitive to the variation of torque supplied by the motor during the interaction of the rod 1 with an obstacle. For the embodiments using sensors placed on the base 2 or the rod 1, the power supply as well. that the transmission of the signals from the sensors can advantageously be ensured by electrical conductors connecting the base 2 to the electronic system of the base unit 10, arranged inside the shaft 3. In general, in particular in the absence of an elastic band 5, it is advantageous to provide for the implementation of a motor whose controller integrates a load sensor (preferably by measuring the counter-electromotive force experienced by the coils of the motor), in a known manner, to detect whether the rod 1 is in the service position on the base 2 or not, due to the impact that this has on the moment of inertia of the assembly to be driven by the motor. It is thus advantageous to provide for the controller to automatically stop the motor when the rod 1 is not detected on the base 2.

[0038] According to another aspect of an embodiment illustrated in Fig. 3, the angle between the rod 1 and the shaft 3 may be adjustable in the horizontal plane. This makes it possible to raise or lower the free or distal end of the rod, i.e. distant from the base unit 10. This functionality makes it possible to adjust and vary the level of difficulty of the jumps that must be performed to avoid the rod 1 during the game. In certain game modalities, the distal end of the rod 1 may be high enough to allow a user, in particular a child, to avoid it by lying on the ground, leaving a free passage for the rod above his body, rather than below, by jumping. This type of exercise helps to increase physical activity during use, while making the game more varied and fun.The angle formed by the rod 1 with the horizontal plane, when the device 100 is in its operating orientation, can for example be adjusted between +30° (above the horizontal plane) and -15° (below the horizontal plane), preferably between +15° and -10°.

[0039] In the example of Fig. 3, the adjustment of the height of the rod 1 is implemented using a system for adjusting the height of the shaft 3 which will be detailed later.

[0040] According to this embodiment, the base 2 is attached to the shaft 3 in a pivotable manner about a horizontal axis 6. The base 2 is further supported by a support device 7, which rests on, and can rotate about, a support surface 8 forming part of the cover of the base unit 10 (for clarity, the bearing surface 8 is also shown in Fig. 2, providing a better perspective).

[0041] Advantageously, according to the example of Fig. 3 the support device 7 comprises a caster which facilitates the rotation of the support device 7 around the support surface 8 during the rotation of the base 2. Alternatively, a sliding support system could also be used.

[0042] When the rotating shaft 3 is raised or lowered relative to the base unit 10, the base 2, still supported by its support device 7 resting on the cover of the base unit 10, pivots about the horizontal axis 6 modifying its inclination relative to the horizontal plane. Thus, when the shaft 3 rises, the distal end of the rod 1 descends as illustrated by the arrows in Fig. 3, and conversely, when the shaft 3 descends, the distal end of the rod 1 rises.

[0043] Fig. 4 illustrates an embodiment for adjusting the height of the shaft 3. In this figure, the casing of the base unit 10 is masked to make visible an example of the mechanical system which ensures the rotation of the rod 1, and the adjustment of its inclination relative to the horizontal plane.

[0044] The rotational drive of the shaft 3 is provided by a main motor 11, which can advantageously be a direct current (DC) motor, but also a stepper motor or the like. The main motor 11 is mounted in a guide structure 12 which allows it to slide in the axial direction of the shaft 3 (therefore in the vertical direction in the operating orientation of the device 100) over a distance of several centimeters. The vertical movement of the main motor 11 directly causes the axial movement of the shaft 3 and, consequently, makes it possible to adjust the angle of the rod 1 relative to the horizontal plane in the operating orientation of the device 100.

[0045] The guide structure 12 may take the form of a system of rails which surround the main motor 11, as in the example of Fig. 4. Other embodiments of the guide structure 12 also remain possible, for example with a single rail or using rolling elements or flexible guide systems, which are certainly more complex, but possibly advantageous in terms of performance.

[0046] Still in the example of Fig. 4, a second motor 14 is implemented to control the position and vertical displacement of the main motor 11 in the guidance system 12. A connecting rod-crank system 15, 16 translates the rotation of the second motor 14 into vertical displacement of the main motor 11. Advantageously, the second motor 14 can be a servomotor, capable of maintaining opposition to a static force and whose position is known and finely adjustable, thus allowing precise control of the vertical position of the main motor 11, and therefore of the inclination of the rod 1.

[0047] Other mechanisms for driving the vertical position of the main motor 11 are also possible, for example, using linear actuators known to those skilled in the art.

[0048] The mechanical system of the jumping game apparatus 100 may further comprise position or torque sensors. For example, Fig. 4 shows a magnet 18 fixed to the shaft 3 which, using Hall effect sensors (not shown), allows the position of the rod 1 around the vertical axis to be determined. Regardless of the technical means implemented, it is advantageous to know the orientation of the rod 1 in a reference system precisely oriented relative to the base unit 10 to enable certain games to be performed as will be described later.

[0049] Torque sensors (not shown) can also be implemented to enhance the safety of the device 100. For example, it is advantageous to detect the possible blocking of the rotation of the base 2, or vibrations due to a shock with an external obstacle, in order to stop the main motor 11 and avoid damage to the device or injuries to users.

[0050] Other elements of the base unit 10 have been omitted from the figures, but it is clear that the apparatus must also include an electronic system for controlling the electromechanical elements described so far.

[0051] Advantageously, but not necessarily, the base unit 10 may also include a fixed or replaceable battery, to allow the device to operate without being plugged into an electrical outlet, which is ideal for outdoor use and also avoids the clutter of a cable lying on the ground during use. If appropriate, the device may also include an electrical interface for recharging such a battery.

[0052] In terms of interfaces, the base unit 10 may also include buttons or other types of control interface for turning the device on and off, selecting games or manually controlling the rotation speed of the rod 1 or its inclination. Such control interfaces may include remote control receivers (infrared or radio frequency), or means for connecting to devices such as a computer, tablet or mobile phone, for example via a Bluetooth interface.

[0053] Connection to a device with a microprocessor and a user interface, such as a computer, a tablet or a mobile phone, can also allow new game programs to be loaded into the jumping game device 100. These programs can advantageously be subsequently executed independently by the device 100. In addition, connection to a computer or other similar device can allow the use of progress tracking applications, counting calories burned and playing games in “story” mode.

[0054] Of course, connection to a computer or other similar devices can be made wirelessly or via a cable. The jumping game apparatus 100 may also include a microprocessor and an interface capable of obtaining and recording instructions from a passive device such as a USB flash drive.

[0055] To enable certain games to be played, it may be advantageous to have indicator lights on the base unit 10. As a non-limiting example, in the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 3, a strip of LEDs 21 around the base unit 10 is implemented. Each LED (from "Light Emitting Diode" in English) can be controlled independently. These LEDs can be used to indicate the progress of a game or indicate that the rotating rod 1 is going to change movement (speed, direction or inclination). Whether the device is used in free play mode or especially in "story" mode, these light signals can be used to transmit game instructions to users. In addition to the playful dimension, this aspect contributes to developing reflexes and coordination in the user. It would be conceivable to use this device for therapeutic purposes or neurological training.

[0056] For other games, in particular aimed at developing the rhythmic skills of the users, it may be advantageous to equip the device 100 with loudspeakers 22 (as illustrated by way of example also in Fig. 3). This makes it possible to play music or sound effects associated with a game. Such effects may announce a change in movement of the rotating rod 1, or simply be synchronized to the rotation frequency of the rod to develop the notions of rhythm in the users. Advantageously, microphones may also be added to allow the implementation of sound interactions between the users and the device 100. This is for the purposes of remote control of the device and / or to add in certain game modes an additional interaction with the users, who should, for example, clap their hands, shout or say a keyword, at the same time (or at the same time) as the movement actions.

[0057] Fig. 5 illustrates a jumping game apparatus 100 further comprising a game interface in the form of a touch mat 30. The touch mat 30 can advantageously be connected to the base unit 10 via a removable connection interface, for example using sub-D connectors, or USB. Alternatively, the touch mat 30 can be permanently connected to the base unit 10 or connected to it via a wireless connection.

[0058] Regardless of the type of connection, it is advantageous to be able to precisely position the base unit 10 on a central point of the sensitive mat 30. Also, it may be advantageous to be able to absolutely orient the base unit 10 on the sensitive mat 30, so that the orientation of the rotating rod 1 relative to a reference direction can be determined at any time. A fixed or removable connection, determining a defined position of the mat 30 relative to the base unit 10 by means of the connection interface, is advantageous in this sense. Alternatively or in addition, other forms of mechanical or simply visual guidance (for example, an alignment marking) may also be used to align the base unit 10 on the sensitive mat 30.

[0059] The sensitive mat 30 comprises at least one or preferably several sensitive zones 31, 32, sensitive to contact or pressure exerted by a user on its surface. By “sensitive” we mean: capable of generate an electrical signal, for example, by establishing electrical contact between two conductive elements, when a user is in contact with or leans on the surface of said area. For example, the sensitive areas 31, 32 may comprise two conductive surfaces separated by a non-conductive foam which yields under a certain pressure, allowing contact between the two conductive elements. This closes an electrical circuit, which can be detected by a microprocessor. Capacitive or inductive sensors, or resistive force sensors can also be implemented. Such contact or pressure sensing mats can be configured by zones in various ways depending on the needs of the games to be carried out with the jumping game apparatus 100.

[0060] In the example of Fig. 5, the sensitive areas of the mat 30 comprise: twelve game sectors 31, and six control elements 32. The control elements 32 serve as an interface for users to control the game (start or stop the device, choose the program or game mode, etc.). The game sectors 31 are, on the other hand, used during the game to monitor the accomplishment of tasks specific to the current game mode by the users.

[0061] In the example of Figure 5, the game sectors 31 comprise twelve angular sectors of equal surface area, with a common center coinciding with the base unit 10 and distributed over the entire circumference of the mat 30. At each turn, the rod 1 sweeps the entire surface of the twelve game sectors 31. A user who is on the mat 30 is therefore obliged to avoid the rod by jumping or lying on the ground, depending on the mode of the game. The accomplishment of this task can be verified by the sensitive elements of the mat 30 and the jumping game apparatus 100 can, depending on the program, encourage the user, for example by activating a light function (use of LEDs), or by emitting a sound as a reward for each accomplishment of the task.

[0062] Several games can be designed with such a system. For example, the user may have to move from one sector to another with each jump, or simply escape from the rod 1 by turning around the mat 30 by taking a step from one game sector 31 to another in precise rhythm of music, so many activities which can be fun, sporty, and promote the development of coordination and rhythm in a young child.

[0063] Moreover, the game can be played by several users at the same time, and the device 100 can track each user's movements thanks to the sensitive mat 30.

[0064] In order to enhance the playful nature of the activity, the mat 30 may be decorated with drawings evoking a particular universe on which the progress of the game may be told as a story where the user must take up challenges. For example, each game sector 31 may be represented as a platform on which the user must move without “falling” into the water or lava drawn around his sector.

[0065] The sensitive mat 30 may be an element connectable to the base unit, being able to be replaced by another mat with different decorations, or even with a different distribution of the sensitive zones 31, 32. Alternatively, or in addition, the sensitive mat 30 may be covered with another illustrative mat not interfering with the sensitive function of the underlying sensitive mat 30, just in order to change the decoration of the games and potentially offer other stories adapted to new game modes.

[0066] Advantageously, the rod 1 can be configured as a retractable telescopic rod. This allows its length to be adjusted to suit different games. Also, in terms of storage, it is very useful to be able to reduce the size of the rod 1 to store the device when not in use.

[0067] In the same spirit of facilitating the storage of the device 100, the base 2 can be configured to pivot around a horizontal axis 6, for example, the same one that allows the adjustment of the height of the rod 1 illustrated in Fig. 3, until it is aligned with the shaft 3, that is to say to be in a vertical orientation in the service orientation of the device 100. In this configuration, with the rod 1 in the retracted position, the storage of the device 100 after its use requires very little horizontal surface area. For its part, the sensitive mat 30 can advantageously be disconnected from the base unit 10, folded and easily stored independently. Alternatively, without necessarily disconnecting it, the mat 30 can be folded around the base unit 10 for storage. In this case, the mat 30 can be configured to operate like a bag when folded for storage. For this purpose, it can be equipped, for example, with handles, buttons or other systems for hanging the folded portions so as to form a practical bag for storage.

[0068] Figs. 6a to 6d and 7a to 7d illustrate various construction details of an apparatus 101 according to a variant of the preferred embodiment described above in relation to Figs. 1 to 3, in side and front views (i.e. with viewing directions substantially perpendicular between a side view and a front view), the apparatus 101 being shown in a first configuration in Figs. 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, and in a second configuration in Figs. 6c, 6d, 7c, 7d. More precisely, the first configuration corresponds to a low axial position of the shaft 3 for driving the rod 1, and therefore of the base 2 intended to support the latter, while the second configuration corresponds to a high axial position of the shaft 3.The same numerical references as those used up to now will still be used to designate the same components or components equivalent to those of the embodiment of the preceding figures, for the sake of simplifying understanding.

[0069] Figs. 6a to 6d show more particularly the base unit 10 of the device 101 with its shaft 3 for driving the rod 1 (not shown in these figures) and the base 2 intended to support the latter.

[0070] The base 2 is pivotally connected to the shaft 3, as described above, and comprises a flank 40, at its free end, defining the periphery of a housing adapted to receive and retain the rod 1 by embedding. For this purpose, the flank 40 advantageously has a free end whose cross-section, along a plane substantially perpendicular to the direction of insertion of the rod 1 into the corresponding housing, has a shape substantially complementary to the shape of the end of the rod 1 (i.e. cylindrical here) and extends over more than 180 degrees. In addition, at least a portion of the flank 40 is preferably elastically deformable to facilitate assembly and removal of the rod 1. More precisely here, as a non-limiting illustrative example, the flank 40 is partially defined by two elastic tabs 42, arranged opposite one another. It may advantageously be provided that at least one of the tabs 42 carry a lug (not visible) intended to be positioned in a suitable clearance or groove (not visible), provided on the periphery of the rod 1, when the latter is pushed into the base 2 to its service position. Thus, good retention of the rod 1 in the base 2 can be ensured, while allowing easy extraction of the rod 1 from the base 2 when an obstacle prevents its movement during use of the device 101.

[0071] Of course, those skilled in the art will also be able to reverse the assembly elements between the rod and the base, without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims, by providing for example a solid free end of the base, intended to be inserted into a housing provided at one end of the rod by producing a peripheral flank similar to the flank 40 which has just been described.

[0072] Furthermore, a comparative examination of the illustrations in Figs. 6a and 6c allows a better understanding of how the adjustment of the inclination of the rod 1 can be carried out, in accordance with what has been described previously.

[0073] Indeed, as already explained above, the apparatus 101 comprises a support device 7 comprising a rolling mechanism, again implemented here in the form of a caster, resting on a support surface 8 forming part of the cover of the base unit 10, so as to be able to roll on the support surface 8 when the shaft 3 is driven in rotation.

[0074] It is clear from the views of Figs. 6a and 6c that the orientation of the caster relative to the bearing surface 8 is modified when the axial position of the drive shaft 3 is modified. During such an operation, the caster must be able to slide freely on the bearing surface 8 by pivoting along an axis of rotation substantially parallel to the direction of its movement on the bearing surface 8 due to the rotation of the shaft 3 during normal operation of the device 101. It is then understood that it is preferable to provide that the caster has a profile (or a section along a plane containing its axis of symmetry) that is generally rounded at the level of its tread. More particularly, it is preferable to avoid the implementation of a profile that would have an edge, or in any case a discontinuity, in its curvature in order to be able to carry out a continuous adjustment of the inclination of the rod 1 by axial displacement of the shaft 3.Additionally, it should also be noted that a roulette wheel. with a rounded profile will always offer a support plane tangential to its surface, which gives it good support for rolling around its axis and facilitated radial sliding along the support surface 8, unlike a roulette with a square profile which, inclined, would rest on a sharp edge.

[0075] It is also possible to provide, advantageously but optionally, that the bearing surface 8 is substantially flat in its radial direction, to simplify the adjustment of the inclination of the rod 1, by ensuring that the impact of the axial displacement of the shaft 3 on the change in inclination of the rod 1 is substantially constant over the entire intended adjustment range.

[0076] In general, a person skilled in the art may advantageously choose materials having good relative sliding properties for the bearing surface 8 and the caster. As a non-limiting illustrative example, it may for example be provided that the caster is made of POM (Polyoxymethylene), and that the cover is made of ABS (Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene). It is particularly advantageous for the caster and the bearing surface 8 of the cover to have respective well-polished surface conditions to further facilitate the radial sliding of the caster along the bearing surface 8 when the shaft 3 is moved axially to modify the inclination of the rod 1.

[0077] Figs. 7a to 7d show the base unit 10 of the apparatus 101 without its cover, in respective views similar to those of Figs. 6a to 6d, to make more particularly visible construction details of alternative mechanisms allowing the shaft 3 to be moved in its axial direction and to rotate on itself.

[0078] The main motor 11 is here mounted fixed relative to the frame of the base unit 10 and ensures the rotational drive of a pinion 44 arranged in mesh with a toothed wheel 46, itself secured to a hub 48 through which the shaft 3 is engaged. The shaft 3 and the central opening of the hub 48 are arranged in such a way that the hub 48 and the shaft 3 are secured in rotation to each other, while they can have a relative movement in the axial direction of the shaft 3.

[0079] Furthermore, the second motor 14, intended to ensure the axial movement of the shaft 3, drives an output pinion 50 arranged in engagement with the teeth of a rake 52 mounted to rotate along a fixed axis of rotation 54 and cooperating with a ring 56 secured to the shaft 3. By comparing the configurations illustrated in Figs. 7b and 7d, it is understood that, starting from the first configuration of Figs. 7a and 7b corresponding to a high orientation of the rod 1, a rotation of the output pinion 50 in the counterclockwise direction of rotation (in the view of Figs. 7b and 7d) causes a rotation of the rack 52 in the clockwise direction of rotation, which moves the ring 56 towards the top of the figures, i.e. an identical displacement of the shaft 3 up to the second configuration, illustrated in Figs. 7a and 7c, corresponding to a low orientation of the rod 1.

[0080] It can be seen that a spring 58, helical here for non-limiting illustration purposes, can advantageously be interposed between the ring 56 and a frame element of the base unit 10 to assist the second motor 14 when it is a question of moving the rod 1 in the direction of its high orientation, that is to say to ensure an axial movement of the shaft 3 in the downward direction in the view of the figures.

[0081] The present invention is not limited by the specific characteristics illustrated and described in relation to the preferred embodiment which has just been described. Those skilled in the art will be able to adapt the present teaching to implement variant embodiments adapted to their own needs and constraints without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. Thus, it is for example possible to provide that the rotating rod is made up of a plurality of segments fitted into one another, possibly made integral by the presence of opposing magnets, and possibly with an elastic band which would extend along the entire length of the rod substantially to its distal end.In this case, the choice of material for the production of the rod 1 is more open, while keeping in mind that the material chosen should make each component of the rod difficult to break, in particular under the pressure of the weight of a child using the device. Furthermore, the base could have the shape of a straight socket, arranged in alignment with the shaft driven by the main motor and possibly terminated by a magnet at its upper end, while the rod could comprise a base also carrying a magnet and arranged to be able to cooperate with the upper end of the base by interlocking. The base could then carry a horizontal (perpendicular) axis. to the axial direction of the shaft and the base in this case) around which the rest of the rod, i.e. its main portion, would rotate in a similar manner to what has been described for the base in relation to the illustration in Fig. 3.

[0082] It will also be noted that the support device, which defines a stop to limit the inclination of the rod in the direction of the support of the device 100 in the service orientation, as will be understood from the preceding description, could alternatively be carried by the rod itself (in particular in the case where the base has the shape of a straight socket) and / or could bear directly on the support of the device 100 (in principle the ground).

Claims

Claims 1. Apparatus (100, 101) for jumping games comprising - a base unit (10) comprising a main motor (11) configured to drive the rotation of a shaft (3) oriented vertically in a working orientation of the apparatus (100), - a base (2), fixed to said shaft (3), and - a semi-rigid rod (1), said base (2) and said rod (1) being arranged in such a way that said rod (1) can be assembled to said base (2) so as to be able to be driven in rotation around said shaft (3) while being inclined with reference to the latter.

2. Apparatus (100, 101) according to claim 1, characterized in that the connection between said rod (1) and said base (2) is configured so as to allow relative movement between them when the rotational movement of said rod (1) is hindered by contact with an object external to the apparatus (100).

3. Apparatus (100, 101) according to claim 2, characterized in that the connection between said rod (1) and said base (2) is at least partially ensured by the attraction between two magnets, one fixed on said rod (1) and the other on said base (2).

4. Apparatus (100) according to claim 2 or 3, further comprising an elastic band (5) stretched between said rod (1) and said base (2), the tension of said elastic band (5) contributing to the fixation between said rod (1) and said base (2).

5. Apparatus (101) according to one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that a first element among said rod (1) and said base (2) has a flank (40) at its free end defining the periphery of a housing adapted to receive and retain the other element by embedding.

6. Apparatus (101) according to claim 5, characterized in that said flank (40) has a free end whose section transverse, along a plane substantially perpendicular to the direction of insertion of the other element into said housing, has a shape substantially complementary to the shape of the other element and extends over more than 180 degrees, and in that at least a portion of said flank (40) is elastically deformable to facilitate the assembly and removal of said rod (1).

7. Apparatus (101) according to claim 6, characterized in that the elastically deformable portion of said flank (40) carries at least one lug arranged to be able to cooperate with a suitable clearance provided in the other element to ensure the retention of said rod (1) in said housing.

8. Apparatus (100, 101) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the rod (1) is at least partially made of a material comprising a polyethylene foam.

9. Apparatus (100, 101) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the angle defined by the inclination of said rod (1) with reference to said shaft (3) is adjustable.

10. Apparatus (100, 101) according to claim 9, characterized in that said angle can be adjusted in a range between -15° below the horizontal and +30° above the horizontal when the apparatus (100) is in its operating orientation.

11. Apparatus (100, 101) according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that said base (2) is made integral with said shaft (3) by means of an axis (6) perpendicular to said shaft (3) and allowing their relative pivoting, and in that said angle between said rod (1) and said shaft (3) is adjustable by modifying the orientation of said base (2) relative to said shaft (3) around said axis (6).

12. Apparatus (100, 101) according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that said rod comprises a base by means of which it is made integral with said base, the main portion of said rod being integral with said base by by means of an axis perpendicular to said shaft (3) and allowing their relative pivoting, and in that said angle between the main portion of said rod and said shaft (3) is adjustable by modifying the orientation of the main portion of said rod relative to said base around said axis.

13. Apparatus (100, 101) according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that it further comprises a support device (7) interposed between, on the one hand, said rod (1) or said base (2), and, on the other hand, said base unit (10) or a support on which the apparatus (100) is positioned during its use, to define a stop limiting the inclination of said rod (1) in the direction of said base unit (10), and in that said shaft (3) is movable in its axial direction so as to modify the distance between said axis (6) and said base unit (10).

14. Apparatus (100, 101) according to claim 13, characterized in that said support device (7) comprises a rolling mechanism configured to support at least part of the weight of said rod (1) and / or said base (2) while allowing its rotation around said shaft (3).

15. Apparatus (100, 101) according to claim 14, characterized in that said rolling mechanism of the support device (7) rests on a support surface (8) integral with the base unit (10) and preferably being provided on a cover of said base unit (10).

16. Apparatus (100, 101) according to claim 15, characterized in that said rolling mechanism of the support device (7) comprises a caster, the profile of which is generally rounded, arranged to roll on a substantially flat support surface (8) of said cover during rotation of said shaft (3) and to slide on said support surface (8) during axial movements of said shaft (3) intended to modify the inclination of said rod (1).

17. Apparatus (100, 101) according to one of claims 13 to 16, characterized in that said base unit (10) further comprises a second motor (14) configured to control the movement of said shaft (3) in its axial direction.

18. Apparatus (100) according to claim 17, characterized in that the main motor (11) is mounted on a guide structure (12) allowing its movement in the axial direction of said shaft (3) and thus causing the vertical movement of the shaft (3) in the service orientation of the apparatus (100), and in that the second motor (14) is configured to control the position of the main motor (11) on said guide structure (12).

19. Apparatus (100, 101) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising a sensitive mat (30) connectable to the base unit (10), said mat (30) comprising at least one or preferably several sensitive zones (31, 32), sensitive to contact or pressure exerted by a user on the surface of said sensitive zones (31, 32).

20. Apparatus (100, 101) according to claim 19, characterized in that said sensitive zones (31, 32) comprise at least two, preferably at least four, and more preferably at least twelve sensitive zones (31) defined as angular sectors covering a circumference around a central point of said mat (30), said central point being configured to lie substantially on the axis of said shaft (3) when said base unit (10) is connected to said mat (30).

Images