Sloped playground climber

Abstract

A playground climber comprises a rigid sloped climbing surface spaced at least in part above a ground surface and comprising an upper face, a lower face opposite the upper face, a lower end, an upper end spaced above said lower end, and opposed side edges extending between the lower and upper ends, wherein the lower end, upper end, and opposed side edges of the climbing surface defining a climber plane. The upper face comprises a first portion formed from a first material and a second portion formed from a second material different from said first material, wherein said first material is softer than said second material, the first material preferably being selected from artificial turf, a rubber material, or combinations thereof and said second material preferably comprises a rigid metal or plastic.

Description

SLOPED PLAYGROUND CLIMBERCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to US App. No. 63 / 656386 filed June 5, 2024, which is entitled “Sloped Playground Climber” and which is incorporated herein by reference.STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

[0002] Not Applicable.BACKGROUND

[0003] Playgrounds serve as essential spaces for children to engage in physical activity, socialize, and develop essential motor skills. Traditional playground equipment typically comprises static structures, such as slides, swings, and climbing frames. While these structures offer recreational opportunities, they often lack the versatility needed to fully engage children's curiosity and foster their physical development.

[0004] One common limitation of traditional playground designs is their static nature, providing limited opportunities for dynamic and varied climbing experiences. Further, playground equipment, and in particular climbing surfaces, typically do not include multiple types of materials for the surfaces of the playground equipment. In particular, playground equipment typically does not incorporate “soft” materials which may give or yield when people play on the equipment. Additionally, playground climbers typically are ‘manufactured’ objects that do not replicate the play that happens on naturally occurring slopes and hills. This lack of variety of materials in playground equipment and the lack of versatility of playground equipment, and in particular of climbers, limits the manner in which children will interact with the playground equipment and with each other while using the playground equipment. This lack of versatility may result in reduced engagement from children and limited opportunities for physical and cognitive development.

[0005] Moreover, existing playground equipment designs may not fully accommodate the diverse needs and preferences of children with varying ages and abilities. This lack of inclusivity can lead to exclusionary play experiences and limit the potential benefits of playground activities for all children.SUMMARY

[0006] Briefly, disclosed is sloped climber which addresses these limitations. The sloped climber comprises an inclined climbing surface having one or more soft areas (which can be formed from artificial turf, rubber, carpet, etc.) and one or more rigid areas (which are preferably mesh-like), with the two types of areas being arranged as desired on the surface. The climber can further include a variety of sensory elements and / or climbing elements on the surface. The climber thus offers a dynamic and versatile playground experience that promotes physical activity, creativity, and inclusivity among children of all ages and abilities.

[0007] In one aspect, the playground climber comprises a rigid sloped climbing surface adapted to support people. The sloped climbing surface is spaced at least in part above a ground surface and comprises an upper face, a lower face opposite the upper face, a lower end, an upper end spaced above the lower end, and opposed side edges extending between the lower and upper ends, with the lower end, upper end, and opposed side edges of the climbing surface defining a climber plane, and wherein the climber plane can be substantially flat or define a bend.

[0008] The upper face of the climbing surface comprises a first portion formed from a first material and a second portion formed from a second material different from the first material. The first material is softer than the second material and yields under pressure. As such, the first material has a softer texture or feel than the second material. The first material, for example, can be selected from artificial turf, a rubber material, wire mesh, netting (formed from ropes or flexible rubber strips), or combinations thereof. The second material, for example, can be a rigid metal or plastic.

[0009] In accordance with an aspect, the first material is a non-rigid material and the second material is a rigid material. The second portion of the climber comprises the second material, and the first portion of the climber comprises thefirst material above the second material, such that in the first portion, the second material provides structural support for the first material.

[0010] In accordance with an aspect of the playground climber, the side edges (and thus a major plane of the climbing surface) define a constant slope.

[0011] In an alternative, the side edges (and thus the climbing surface) define a bend in the climber, dividing the climber into an upper sloped portion, a transition portion, and a bottom, foot, or exit portion. In this instance, the upper sloped portion defines an angle relative to the horizontal, and the bottom portion is generally horizontal or defines an angle relative to the horizontal that is less than an angle defined by the upper sloping portion.

[0012] In accordance with an aspect of the playground climber, the climbing surface is coplanar with the climber plane.

[0013] In accordance with an aspect of the playground climber, the climbing surface defines one or more of a peak which extends above the climber plane and / or a valley which extends below the climber plane.

[0014] In accordance with an aspect of the playground climber, the second portion is mesh-like and defines openings or perforations of a sufficient size or number to enable users to “see through” at least a part of the second portion.

[0015] In accordance with an aspect of the playground climber, there are a plurality of first portions and / or a plurality of second portions. At least one of each of the first and second portions is triangular. In the situation in which two or more of each of the first and second portions are triangular, adjacent triangular portions meet at apexes of the triangular portions. The triangular portions can be sized to extend from one side edge of the climbing surface towards the opposite side edge.

[0016] In accordance with an aspect of the playground climber, the playground climber can include activity elements on one or both of the upper and lower faces of the climbing surface.

[0017] The activity elements can comprise one or more upper climbing elements (secured to upper face of the climbing surface) selected from the groupconsisting of rails, ropes, netting, hand holds, climbing blocks, and combinations thereof; the rails comprising banister rails and / or an agility grid.

[0018] The climbing elements can also comprise one or more lower climbing elements (secured to the lower face of the climbing surface). These lower climbing elements can be handle grips, climbing grips, ropes, or nets.

[0019] The activity elements can also include sensory elements which are visually and / or auditorily stimulating. The sensory elements can also be manipulative. The sensory elements can include drums percussion, and / or rotatable elements. The rotatable elements are preferably both visually and auditorily stimulating.

[0020] In accordance with an aspect of the playground climber, the activity elements on the climbing surface are accessible from either, or both of, the upper face and lower face of the climbing surface, the activity elements being sensory (auditory, tactile) or manipulative .

[0021] In accordance with an aspect, the playground climber can include a frame which comprises a lower frame member proximate the lower end of the climbing surface, an upper frame member proximate the upper end of the climbing surface, and side frame members proximate the side edges of the climbing surface. The playground climber can also include an upper end support which supports the upper frame member, and thus the upper end of the climbing surface, above a ground surface.

[0022] In accordance with an aspect of the playground climber, the playground climber can further include a lower end support which supports the lower frame member, and thus the lower end of the climbing surface, above the ground surface; the lower end support being shorter than the upper end support.

[0023] The upper end support and the lower end support can each comprise a pair of spaced apart legs.

[0024] The upper support can, in accordance with one aspect, comprise a frame member of a playground play structure.

[0025] The upper support can, in accordance with another aspect, comprise a hub formed from two or more hub frame members defining a closed shape defining a hub area, wherein at least one of the hub frame members is straight. A filler adapted to support children is preferably provided in the hub area. The filler can comprise netting, which can optionally be provided with tread inserts. The climbing surface upper frame member is operatively connected to the straight hub frame member, and at least the straight hub frame member is supported above a ground surface.

[0026] In accordance with an aspect of the playground climber, the hub frame is generally horizontal.

[0027] In accordance with an aspect of the playground climber, the hub frame can comprise at least two straight frame members with a climbing surface as described above, secured to each of the straight frame members of the hub.

[0028] In accordance with an aspect of the playground climber, a play element, such as a hammock-like member or netting, can be supported below the hub frame. In this instance, the hub is preferably supported by at least two legs, and the play element is mounted to or suspended between the at least two legs.

[0029] In accordance with an aspect of the playground climber, the playground climber comprises a rigid sloped climbing surface spaced at least in part above a ground surface and adapted to support people. The sloped climbing surface comprises an upper face, a lower face opposite the upper face, a lower end, an upper end spaced above the lower end, and opposed side edges extending between the lower and upper ends; the lower end, upper end, and opposed side edges of the climbing surface defining a climber plane. The upper face of the climbing surface comprises at least one first portion having an upper surface formed from a material which will yield under pressure, such as artificial turf or a rubber, and at least one second portion formed from a rigid mesh-like material defining a plurality of openings through the second portion of sufficient number and size such that a user can “see through” the second portion. The second rigid material can be a metal or a plastic. Preferably, the second material underlies and supports the first material.

[0030] In accordance with an aspect of the playground climber, a climbing surface, as described above, is connected to a hub comprising a hub frame formed of two or more hub frame members defining a closed shape defining an area. At least one of the hub frame members is straight, and the straight hub frame member being is supported above a ground surface. A filler adapted to support children is received in the area. The filler can, for example, be a netting which optionally includes tread inserts.

[0031] A method of constructing a hill-like surface formed with the climbing surface defining an angle with the ground surface, preferably of at least 25 degrees, over at least a portion of the hill-like surface comprises securing a support structure in the ground, the support structure comprising at least one leg and at least one generally horizontal member being supported above the ground surface by the at least one leg. At least one climber as described above, is secured to the at least one generally horizontal member proximate the upper end of the climber. In a variation, the support structure can comprise two or more generally horizontal members, in which instance, the method comprises securing two or more of climbers proximate their upper ends to two or more of the generally horizontal members.

[0032] In accordance with an aspect, a playground climber comprises a rigid sloped climbing surface spaced at least in part above a ground surface and adapted to support people, the sloped climbing surface comprising an upper face, a lower face opposite the upper face, a lower end, an upper end spaced above the lower end, and opposed side edges extending between the lower and upper ends; the lower end, upper end, and opposed side edges of the climbing surface defining a climber plane; wherein, the sloped climbing surface is formed from a yieldable or pliable material, such as an artificial turf or rubber, a rigid material, such as a rigid plastic or metal, or combinations thereof.

[0033] In an aspect of this playground climber, yieldable or the pliable material defines the entire upper surface of the climber, the climber including a rigid base material on which the pliable material rests to provide structural support to the pliable material.

[0034] In an aspect of the playground climber, the rigid base material comprises the rigid material.

[0035] In an aspect of the playground climber, the rigid material defines the entire upper surface of the climber.

[0036] In an aspect of the playground climber, the playground climber further comprises one or more activity elements accessible from either, or both of, the upper face and lower face; the activity elements comprising any combination of the following:• one or more upper climbing elements selected from the group consisting of rails, ropes, netting, hand holds, climbing blocks, and combinations thereof; the rails comprising banister rails and / or an agility grid; or• one or more lower climbing elements on the lower face of the climbing surface; the lower climbing elements including handle grips, climbing grips, ropes, or nets;• one or more sensory elements which are visually and / or auditorily stimulating or which are manipulative; wherein the sensory elements are preferably drums and / or rotatable elements, and wherein the rotatable elements are preferably both visually and auditorily stimulating.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0037] FIG. 1 A is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a sloped climber having a sloped climbing surface wherein one portion of the surface is formed of a first preferably soft, pliable, or yieldable material, such as an artificial turf, and another portion of the surface is formed of a second rigid and preferably mesh-like or perforated material.

[0038] FIGS. 1 B-C are front perspective views of the sloped climber of FIG. 1 A with climbing elements in the form of a rope grid (FIG. 1 B) and banister rails (FIG. 1 C).

[0039] FIG. 1 D is a rear perspective view of the sloped climber.

[0040] FIG. 1 E is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the sloped climber taken through a perimeter of the climber, a portion of second material, and a portion of first material.

[0041] FIG. 1 F is a plan view of a portion of a climber showing the connection of the first material (illustratively a turf surface) to the climber.

[0042] FIG. 2A-C are front elevational, front perspective, and side elevational views of the sloped climber with an alternative arrangement of the first and second portions of the sloped climber and with climbing elements in the form of a rope net on the upper surface of the sloped climber.

[0043] FIG. 3A-C are front elevational, front perspective, side elevational views of the sloped climber having climbing elements in the form of banisters on the upper surface of the sloped climber.

[0044] FIG. 4A-C are front elevational, front perspective, and side elevational views of the sloped climber with a further variation of climbing elements.

[0045] FIG. 5A-C are front elevational, front perspective, and side elevational views of a second embodiment of the sloped climber with another set of activity elements.

[0046] FIG. 6A-C are front elevational, front perspective, and side elevational views of the second sloped climber with a different set of activity elements.

[0047] FIGS. 7A-B are front and back perspective views of the second sloped climber with a variety of activity elements and incorporating a movable element suspended underneath the climber.

[0048] FIG. 8A-B are front and back perspective views of a variation of the second sloped climber.

[0049] FIG. 9A-B are perspective and top plan views showing a sloped climber connected to a platform of a connecting support structure.

[0050] FIG. 10 is a top plan view showing multiple sloped climbers connected to a standalone playground structure.

[0051] FIGS. 1 1 A-B are rear perspective and top plan views of a sloped climber connected to a first hub.

[0052] FIG. 12A-B are rear perspective and top plan views of a sloped climber connected to a second hub.

[0053] FIGS. 13A-F are top plan views of a hubs having 1 , 2, or 3 sloped climbers connected thereto, with the sloped climbers having different sets of activity elements.

[0054] FIG. 13G is a perspective view of a hub with 3 sloped climbers connected thereto.

[0055] Corresponding reference numerals will be used throughout the several figures of the drawings.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0056] The following detailed description illustrates the claimed invention by way of example and not by way of limitation. This description will clearly enable one skilled in the art to make and use the claimed invention, and describes several embodiments, adaptations, variations, alternatives, and uses of the claimed invention, including what we presently believe is the best mode of carrying out the claimed invention. Additionally, it is to be understood that the claimed invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangements of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The claimed invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or being carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.

[0057] A first sloped climber 1 is shown generally in FIGS. 1 A-4C with different activity elements (described below). The sloped climber 1 has perimeter 3 comprised of a top edge 3a, a bottom edge 3b, and opposed side edges 3c. As illustratively shown in the figures, the perimeter of the climber can be defined by a frame, which can, for example, be formed from, a preferably rigid, tube stock. Asbest seen in FIG. 20, the side edges 3c can be formed to define a bend 3d which is preferably located towards the bottom of the climber. The bend 3d divides the climber 1 into three sections - an upper sloped section 5a, a transition section 5b, and a bottom section 5c, with the upper sloped section 5a comprising the majority of the length of the sloped climber. The upper sloped section 5a can define an angle to the horizontal of, for example, 30-60°; and the bottom section 5c can be generally parallel to a ground surface, and thus be generally perpendicular to the vertical. The bottom section could, for example, define an angle of 0-10° with the horizontal. The transition section 5c is shaped to form a transition between the upper sloped section 5a and the bottom section 5c. In the sloped climber illustratively shown in the figures in which the perimeter of the climber is formed by frame members, the bend 3d can be formed from separate frame pieces which are joined at angles relative to each other (as seen in FIG. 2C), or can be formed from a single frame member that is bent. An alternative construction of the climber 1 ’ is shown in FIGS. 5A-8B. In this version, the side edges 3c’ of the climber are straight, in which case the perimeter 3 of the sloped climber essentially defines a sloped plane.

[0058] The sloped climber can include bottom legs 6a proximate the bottom edge of the sloped climber, center supports (such as legs) 6b proximate a midpoint of the sloped climber, and upper legs 6c proximate the edge upper of the sloped climber. The legs support the sloped climber in its inclined position, with the upper end of the sloped climber elevated relative to the bottom end of the sloped climber. The lower legs elevate the bottom edge 3b of the sloped climber 1 , 1 ’ above a ground surface. If desired, the lower legs 6a could be omitted, in which case the bottom of the climber would be at ground level. Depending on the length of the sloped climber, the center legs 6b could be positioned a distance from the midpoint, or even omitted. Similarly, as discussed below, the upper legs 6c can also be omitted. In an alternative, the center supports could be panels which extend a desired distance between the top and bottom ends of the climber 1.

[0059] The sloped climber defines a climbing surface 7 that conforms generally to the shape of the perimeter 3. Thus, in the sloped climber 1 , for example, theclimbing surface 7 will transition from the upper more steeply sloped section 5a to the bottom, generally flat, section 5c at the bottom of the sloped climber, as seen for example in FIG. 1 A; in the climber 1 ’, on the other hand, the climbing surface 7 will have a generally constant slope, as seen, for example, in FIGS. 7A, 8A. The climbing surface 7 need not be level across the perimeter. That is, the climbing surface need not reside totally in a climber plane defined by the perimeter, edge, or frame of the climber. As shown, for example, in FIGS. 5A-6C, the climbing surface 7 can define a peak 12 and / or a valley 11 which extend above and below the climber plane defined by the perimeter 3. As can be appreciated, the climbing surface is configured and adapted to support people (children and adults) that will climb on (or even jump on) the surface 7.

[0060] The climbing surface 7 is for the most part generally rigid and thus for the most part does not generally flex under the weight of people playing on the climber. In a preferred embodiment, the climbing surface 7 is comprised of areas having or defining at least two different textures, appearances, etc. These areas include a first portion 7a and a second portion 7b. The first portion 7a can be formed from a non-rigid material R such as artificial turf, rubber sheet, rubber tiles, pour-in-place rubber, carpet, wire mesh, netting (formed from, for example, rope or rubber strips) or other materials which will present a surface having a somewhat soft feel or texture and which is pliable or will yield slightly or, in the case of netting, flex under pressure. The second portion 7b, on the other hand, is formed from a rigid material M which is preferably formed from a perforated, meshed, or expanded material (such as metal), such that users can peer through the meshlike area. If desired, the second material could be provided with a coating, so that the second portions are not bare metal. As a mesh-like surface, the second portion 7b can be considered to be “see through”. The first portion 7a, in some versions, on the other hand, presents an uninterrupted surface (i.e. , without holes or openings) and cannot be peered through. The first material R will thus be softer than the second material M. The first material R, as noted, may be pliable, such that it yield or give slightly. The second material, on the other hand, as noted, is rigid, structural, and will not yield or give. That is, where the continuous material R is “soft”, the mesh-like material M is “hard”. The mesh-like material is thusharder than the continuous material. With the difference in materials, the first material will have a softer feel or a softer texter than the second material.

[0061] The first material R which forms the first portion can be an artificial turf, rubber sheet, rubber tile, poured-in-place rubber, carpet, wire mesh, netting, etc. This “soft” feel noted above is especially apparent when the material R is an artificial turf, as it provides for a substantially different sensory feel than typical playground equipment which is made of hard plastic or metal. As noted above, the material R is not, in and of itself, rigid, and without support will flex under the weight of people playing on the climber. The material M from which the second portion 7b is formed is, on the other hand, rigid and is capable of supporting people playing on the sloped climber 1 , 1 ’ without flexing. Thus, the second material M forming the second portion(s) 7b preferably is coextensive with (or spans the full area defined by) the perimeter of the sloped climber and, as seen in FIG. 1 E, underlays and supports the material R of the first portion(s) 7a. Thus, the first portion(s) 7a of the sloped climber are defined by areas where the second material M is covered with the first material R, and the second portion(s) 7b of the sloped climber are defined by the area(s) that are free of the first material R. In a variation, larger openings can be formed in the second material. The first material, in the form of a wire mesh, a rope netting, a rubber strip netting, can then be secured at the perimeter of such openings and fill the openings. Such a construction would provide areas in the climber which would flex under the weight of users.

[0062] As seen in FIG. 1 F, the material R of the first portion 7a of the climbing surface can be secured to the climber by means of a clamp or clamp sections 8 which extend about the perimeter of the first portion 7a. The clamp incudes an upper member 8a which overlies the non-rigid material R. Fasteners 8b, such as bolts, screws, rivets, etc., pass through the upper member 8a and extend through the rigid material M, such that the non-rigid material R is sandwiched between the upper member 8a and the rigid material M to hold the non-rigid material R in place and to secure the edges of the material R to the rigid material M. Additional fasteners (such as bolts, screws, rivets, etc.) can be placed within the first portion 7a to further secure the non-rigid material R to the rigid material M. For example, in FIG. 1 F, a grip 21 is fixed in the first portion 7a by means of fasteners 21 b (suchas bolts) which pass through the grip and the rigid material M under the first portion to thereby secure the first portion to the rigid portion within the first portion. This allows for the material R to be secured without the use of adhesives. The connection between the materials R and M is thus completely mechanical.

[0063] The climbing surface can have any number of first portions 7a and second portions 7b. FIGS. 1 A-C illustratively show a sloped climber in which the second portion 7b form a quadrilateral (which can be generally rectangular or trapezoidal) and extends across the top of the climbing surface 7.

[0064] FIGS. 2A-C illustratively show a sloped climber having climbing surface wherein the second portion 7b similarly extends across the top of the sloped climber and is generally in the shape of a trapezoid. The first portion 7a forms the remainder of the climbing surface 7.

[0065] FIGS. 5A-8B show climbing surfaces having a plurality of first portions and second portions all of which shown as being generally triangular in shape, with the first portions and second portions bordering each other on at least two sides of each triangular area. The first and / or second portions can extend fully across the climber with a base of a triangle being adjacent one side 3c of the sloped climber and an apex of the triangle being adjacent the opposite side 3c of the sloped climber. Alternatively, two triangular areas can have their bases on opposed sides of the sloped climber with their apexes meeting between the sides of the sloped climber. In another alternative, a triangle located between the top and bottom edges of the sloped climber can have two apexes at the sides 3c of the sloped climber with a third apex pointing toward the top or bottom sloped climber. Although the climbing surface 7 is shown with the two portions 7a, b formed in triangles, the portions 7a, b can be formed in any desired shape (including regular and irregular polygons, circles and ovals), as long as the climbing surface 7 as a whole has at least one continuous portion 7a and at least one mesh-like portion 7b. Further, there is no requirement that the first portions and second portions be the same general shape. Thus, as can be appreciated, the first and second portions of the climbing surface can be formed in different patterns and different shapes.

[0066] As noted above, the climbing surface 7 does not need to reside in the climber plane defined by the perimeter 3 of the sloped climber. As seen in FIGS. 5A-6C, the climbing surface can define a peak 12 and a valley 1 1 . As seen, the peak 12 and valley 11 are both in the shape of a four-sided pyramid, with the peak extending upwardly out of the climber plane defined by the perimeter 3 and the valley pyramid extending downwardly out of the climber plane defined by the perimeter. As seen, the two pyramids each comprise four triangular sides, with two of the sides being first portions 7a and two of the sides being second portions 7b. However, the peaks and valleys can be made from any desired combination of first and second portions. In fact, the peaks and / or valleys can be formed completely of first portions or of second portions. Although shown as four sided pyramids, the peaks 12 and valleys 1 1 could be 3-sided or have 5 or more sides. The climbing surface could take on other shapes. The peaks and valleys could be curved, rather than angular. The peaks and valleys could take the form of waves which extend across the full width of the climbing surface (or just a portion of the width of the climbing surface). As noted above, the material R of the first portions is not rigid, and could thus flex under the weight of users. Therefore, the sides of the peaks 12 and valleys 11 are all initially formed from the second material M (which is rigid), and the sides of the peaks and valleys that are define first portions have the first material R applied over the second material M, such that the second (rigid) material M underlays and supports the first (flexible or pliable) material R.

[0067] In the figures, the climbing surface is shown to have both a first material portion and a second material portion. However, the climbing surface could be provided in which the entire upper surface of the climber is formed from either the first material R or the second material M. In the former instance, the climber will include a rigid material, such as a rigid plastic or metal, which can provide structural support for the first material, which, such as a rubber, artificial turf, carpet, etc. is pliable or flexible. In this instance, the first material R will be secured to the underlying rigid supporting material in the same manner as described above. In the second alternative, in which the climbing surface is defined solely by the second material, the climber would be formed without the first material.

[0068] The climbing surface 7 can be generally plain. That is, as seen for example, in FIG. 1 A, the sloped climber can simply be the surface 7 devoid of any sort of activity element. However, preferably, the sloped climber includes activity elements, as seen in the remaining figures. In one version these activity elements can be climbing elements attached to either the top face 10a or the bottom face 10b of the sloped climbing surface 7. The climbing elements can include a rope grid 9 (FIGS. 1 B, 2A), a climbing rope 1 1 (FIGS. 4A-B), banister rails 13 (FIGS. 1 C, 3A-B), hand holds or grips 15 (FIGS. 5A-C, 8A), “rock” elements 17 (FIGS. 4A-B, 5A-C, 8A-B) which can function as hand grips or foot holds, an annular circle grip 19 (FIG. 6A-B, 7A) which comprises an annular rim surrounding an opening through the climbing surface, and bar shaped climbing grips 21 (FIGS 6A-B, 7A- B). The rope grid 9 can cover only a portion of the top face 10a of the climbing surface, or it can cover a substantial portion of the top face of the climbing surface, as seen in FIG. 2A in which the rope grid 9 covers most of the sloped section 5a of the climber. The climbing rope 11 is secured at least at a top end of the rope 11 either proximate the top edge 3a of the sloped climber or to the top face 10a of the climbing surface. A bottom end of the climbing rope 11 can also be fixed to the top face of the climbing surface 7 (for example, proximate the bottom edge 3b of the sloped climber). The banisters 13 can extend substantially the length of the climber and have a bottom end which is connected to the sloped climber proximate the bottom edge 3b of the sloped climber or can be secured in the ground in front of the climber (as seen in FIG. 3C). As seen, the banisters can be provided in pairs (or triplets). More banisters could be provided if desired or the climber 1 could be provided with a single banister. Other types of activity elements can be provided as well. Although the ropes 1 1 and banisters 13 are shown to extend generally longitudinally along the climbing surface, if desired, the ropes and banisters could extend diagonally or laterally across the climbing surface 7 as well. As seen in FIGS. 5B and 8B, the handgrips 15 can be secured to the bottom face as well as the top face of the of the climbing surface. Similarly, the “rocks” 17 can be secured to either (or both of) the top and bottom faces of the climbing surface. Other types of climbing elements could be envisioned which could be secured to either side of the climbing surface 7.

[0069] In addition, climbing nets 23 (FIGS. 1 D, 2C, 4C) can extend from underside of the sloped climber to the ground. The nets 23 can be fixed to the bottom face of the climbing surface 7. In a version of the sloped climber comprising a frame, the nets 23 can be fixed to the frame.

[0070] As seen in FIGS. 7A,B, the activity element can be a suspended element 25 which is supported beneath the climber 1 by ropes 25a which extend from the suspended element 25 to the legs 6b of the climber. The ropes 25a could alternatively be secured to the frame of the climber. The suspended element is sized and shaped to support one or more users and, for example, can be a saucer, hammock, basket, or similar element. The suspended element 25 shown in the figures comprises an outer ring with a flexible web inside the ring. The suspended element 25 could be supported beneath the climber with the ropes 25a connected to the climber in any desired manner.

[0071] Additionally, the sloped climbing surface 7 can have a variety of sensory elements which, rather than provide movement activity, stimulate senses such as touch, sound, and sight. For example, the sensory elements can include a manipulative element, such as a spinning orb 27 (FIGS. 6A-B and 7A-B). These orbs 27 comprise a ring 27a mounted to the climbing surface 7 with a sphere 27b mounted in the ring for rotation about at least one axis of the sphere. The outer surface of the sphere 27b is preferably in at least two colors, to provide visual stimulation when the sphere is rotated. Additionally, the sphere is constructed in such a way that it will create aural stimulation when the sphere 27b is rotated. For example, the sphere could be hollow and have loose beads, balls, bells, or other items that make noise when the sphere is rotated. The sphere 27b passes through the climbing surface 7 to be accessible from both the above and below the climbing surface. The sensory elements can also include a percussion element, such as a drum 29 which extends through the climbing surface 7. The drum 29 includes a hollow body which is closed top on its top surface and open at its bottom. The drum 29 can be provided in different sizes (i.e., small, medium, and large) which could produce different sounds; and a single climber can be provided with drums of different sizes. Other types of sensory elements can be provided as well. For example, the percussion element could also be a xylophone-typeaccessory which could be accessible from one or both sides of the climbing surface. Another percussion element can include hollow tubes (tubulums) which extend through the climbing surface, and when they are hit from the top or bottom produce a sound. Other types of sensory elements can, as desired, be provided.

[0072] The various activity elements can be provided on a climbing surface in any desired combination. Additionally, they can be positioned on the first portion(s) and / or second portion(s) of the climbing surface, and on the top face or bottom face of the climbing surface, as desired. This provides virtually unlimited possibilities for the design or configuration of a particular climbing surface 7.

[0073] The sloped climber 1 is sloped and thus must be supported at its top end. The sloped climber 1 could simply be provided with longer legs 6c at the top end which reach to the ground. However, the climber 1 is preferably mounted to a support structure. This support structure can be a platform 34 of a playground assembly 33 (such as a play tower) as seen in FIGS. 9A,B. As seen in FIG. 9A, the upper legs 6c of the sloped climber are mounted to the platform 34 of the playground assembly 33. The legs 6c can be fixed to the platform 34 in any desired manner. As seen, the legs 6c create a step (or gap) between the platform and the top edge of the sloped climber 1. If desired, the upper legs 6c could be omitted, and the top edge 3a could be connected directly to the platform 31 , 33, such that the top of the climber 1 is level with the playground assembly platform at its upper end. Alternatively, as seen in FIG. 10, the support structure can be a stand-alone playground element, such as another climber. FIG. 10 illustratively shows two sloped climbers 1 connected to a Quito™ web climber available from Playworld Systems, Inc. FIG. 10 shows two sloped climbers 1 (each having a different set of activity elements) secured to a horizontal frame member 35 of a climber 37. As can be appreciated, the edge of the support structure to which the climber 1 is connected is generally parallel to the top edge 3a of the sloped climber. Inasmuch as the top edge 3c is generally straight, the edge of the support structure to which the sloped climber 1 is secured preferably is also generally straight.

[0074] In an alternative, the support structure can comprise a hub 41 a, b as shown in FIGS. 1 1 A-12B to which the climber is connected. The hub 41 a (FIGS.11 A-B) is shown to be generally rectangular whereas the hub 41 b (FIGS. 12A-B) is shown to be generally triangular with truncated corners. Thus, a hub can be virtually any desired shape. The shape of the hub is defined by a frame 43a, b of the hub. In the hubs 41 a, b, all sides of the hub frame are straight. However, it is not necessary that all the sides be straight. Rather, the hub needs to have straight edges only where a sloped climber 1 is to be connected to the hub. Thus, a hub needs to have at least one generally straight edge. Therefore, the hub, for example, could define a semi-circle.

[0075] As noted, the hubs 41 a,b each comprise a frame 43a, b. The hub frame 43a, b defines an open center or hub area. The hub area can be filled, for example, with a grid net 45, to define a platform, such as found on playground assemblies, which will support users (children and adults). This platform could also be generally rigid (and optionally solid) and could be, for example, a plastic or metal based platform. The interstices 45a of the net 45 can be left empty or can be filled with an insert 47, as shown in FIG. 1 1 B, which can be made, for example, from a rubber, plastic, or metal element (which can be flexible). Alternatively, a rubber element 49, which can be formed from a flexible material, can be provided along one or more edges of the frame 43a, b as seen in FIGS. 12A,B. In this instance, the flexible materials has edges which are secured to members of the hub frame, with at least one edge facing the interior of the hub frame. The grid net 45 then fills the remainder of the opening, and is secured to the inner edge(s) of the flexible material and to any open edge of the hub frame 43a, b. In another alternative, a flexible rubber element or a rigid platform can fill the area defined by the hub frame.

[0076] As noted, the hub frame 43a, b has at least one edge or frame member 48 which is at least as long as the top edge 3c of the sloped climber 1 . As shown, the edge 48 of the hub frame is straight. However, the hub need not be flat (or level). As seen in FIGS. 1 1 A, 12A, the upper legs 6c of the sloped climber are fixed to the hub frame member 48 of the hub 43a, b. Thus, the top edge 3a of the sloped climber 1 is above the level of the hub. If desired, the upper legs 6c can be omitted such that the top edge 3a of the sloped climber is level with the frame member of the hub. In fact, in this instance, for a sloped climber comprising aframe, the same frame element could define both the upper frame member of the sloped climber and the straight frame member 48 of the hub.

[0077] The hub frame member 48 or edge to which the climber 1 , 1 ’ is attached is supported above the ground (or playground surface) by hub legs 45. Preferably, the hub 41 a,b is generally level, as seen in FIGS. 11 A, 12A. However, if desired, the hub 41 a, b could be sloped upwardly or downwardly, as may be desired. The hub can have just two legs, as seen in FIG. 11 A, or it can have three legs as seen in FIG. 12A. The number of legs 45 for the hub will be dependent upon the size and shape of the hub. Thus, a hub could potentially have just a single leg 45, or it could have four or more legs.

[0078] The hub can also be provided with activity elements. As seen in FIG. 11 A, the hub 41 a can be provided with a climbing net 51 which spans between the legs 45 of the hub; and as seen in FIG. 12A, the hub 41 b can be provided with a hammock 53, or other suspended element, which is supported by ropes 53a mounted to the legs 45 by means of connectors 53b.

[0079] As seen in the numerous figures, a hub (or other supporting structure) can support a single sloped climber or it can support multiple sloped climbers. Further, the sloped climber(s) can be paired with other elements such as slides 55 (FIG. 13E,F). As noted above, when two or more sloped climbers are secured to a hub or other supporting structure, the two climbers need not have the same compliment of activity elements. Rather (and perhaps preferably), when there are two or more sloped climbers connected to a supporting structure, the sloped climbers all have different sets of activity elements.

[0080] The climber 1 ,1 ’, as can be appreciated, is intended to be installed in playground over a, preferably, generally level or horizontal ground surface. Although it is appreciated that the ground surface cannot always be level or horizontal. Preferably, when the climber 1 , 1 ’ is installed, the climber will define an angle with the ground surface of at least 25 degrees over at least a portion of the climbing surface. Installation of the climber 1 ,1 ' involves securing a support structure in the ground. The support structure can comprise a playground structure (as in FIGS. 9A, 9B, and 10) or a hub (as in FIGS. 1 1 A,B and 12A,B). Ifthe support structure is a playground structure, the playground structure can be pre-existing. In either event, as described above, the support structure comprises at least one generally horizontal member. Once the support structure is secured in the playground, the climber (as described above) is secured to the at least one generally horizontal member proximate the upper end of the climber. As seen in the figures, this comprises fixing the upper end legs 6c to the horizontal member of the support structure. As discussed above, alternatively, the upper edge 3a of the climber could be secured directly to the horizontal member of the support structure. The climber itself, i.e. , the frame (if used), the surface comprised of the continuous and mesh-like materials, save, the activity elements can be assembled together in any desired order.

[0081] Although the climber 1 ,1 ’ is preferably mounted or secured to a support structure, such as a hub or other playground element, the climber 1 ,1 ’ could be installed as a stand alone playground element. In this instance, the upper legs 6 effectively become the support structure.

[0082] As various changes could be made in the above constructions without departing from the scope of the invention, it is intended that all matter contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. For example, cross-members (such as seen in FIG. 1 E) can extend across the lower face of the climber to provide either connection points for activity elements which depend from the underside of the climber or to provide additional structural support across the climber. This example is merely illustrative.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A playground climber comprising a rigid sloped climbing surface adapted to support people, said sloped climbing surface being spaced at least in part above a ground surface and comprising an upper face, a lower face opposite said upper face, a lower end, an upper end spaced above said lower end, and opposed side edges extending between said lower and upper ends; said lower end, upper end, and opposed side edges of said climbing surface defining a climber plane^wherein the climber plane can be substantially flat or define a bend; wherein, said upper face of said climbing surface comprises a first portion formed from a first material and a second portion formed from a second material different from said first material, wherein said first material is softer than said second material and that is pliable and yields under pressure; said first material preferably being selected from artificial turf, a rubber material, wire mesh, netting (formed from ropes or flexible rubber strips), or combinations thereof and said second material preferably being a rigid metal or plastic.2 The playground climber of Claim 1 wherein said first material is a non-rigid material and said second material is a rigid material; wherein said second portion of said climber comprises said second material, and said first portion of said climber comprises said first material above said second material, such that in said first portion, said second material provides structural support for said first material.

3. The playground climber of any of Claims 1 -2 wherein said side edges define a constant slope.

4. The playground climber of any of Claim 1 -2 wherein said side edges define a bend in said climber, dividing said climber into an upper sloped portion, a transition portion, and a bottom, foot, or exit portion.

5. The playground climber of Claim 4 wherein said upper sloped portion defines an angle relative to the horizontal, and said bottom portion is generally horizontal or defines an angle relative to the horizontal that is less than an angle defined by said upper sloping portion.

6. The playground climber of any of Claims 1 -5 wherein said climbing surface is coplanar with said climber plane.

7. The playground climber of any of Claims 1 -5 wherein said climbing surface defines one or more of a peak which extends above said climber plane and / or a valley which extends below said climber plane.

8. The playground climber of any of Claims 1 -7 wherein said second portion is mesh-like and defines openings or perforations of a sufficient size or number to enable users to “see through” at least a part of the second portion.

9. The playground climber of any of Claims 1 -8 wherein there are a plurality of first portions and / or a plurality of second portions.

10. The playground climber of Claim 9 wherein at least one of each of the first and second portions is triangular.1 1 . The playground climber of any of Claims 9-10 wherein two or more of each of the first and second portions are triangular, said triangular portions have apexes.

12. The playground climber of Claim 1 1 wherein the two or more triangular first portions meet at an apex and / or wherein the two or mor triangular second portions meet at an apex.

13. The playground climber of Claim 1 1 wherein at least one of said triangular first portions or at least one of said triangular second portions extends from one side edge of said climbing surface towards the opposite side edge.

14. The playground climber of Claim 13 wherein at least one of said triangular first portions or at least one of said triangular second portions extend fully from one side to the other of said climbing surface.

15. The playground climber of any of Claims 1 -14 comprising activity elements on one or both of said upper and lower faces of said climbing surface.

16. The playground climber of Claim 15 wherein said activity elements comprise one or more upper climbing elements selected from the group consistingof rails, ropes, netting, hand holds, climbing blocks, and combinations thereof; said rails comprising banister rails and / or an agility grid.17 The playground climber of any of Claims 15-16 wherein said climbing elements comprise one or more lower climbing elements on said lower face of said climbing surface; said lower climbing elements including handle grips, climbing grips, ropes, or nets.

18. The playground climber of any of Claims 15-17 wherein said activity elements including sensory elements which are visually and / or auditorily stimulating and which can optionally be manipulative; wherein said sensory elements are preferably percussion and / or rotatable elements, and wherein the rotatable elements are preferably both visually and auditorily stimulating.19 The playground climber of any of Claims 15-18 wherein said activity elements on said climbing surface are accessible from either, or both of, said upper face and lower face of said climbing surface, said activity elements being sensory (auditory, tactile) or manipulative .

20. The playground climber of any of Claims 1 -19 further including: a frame; said frame comprising a lower frame member proximate said lower end of said climbing surface, an upper frame member proximate said upper end of said climbing surface, and side frame members proximate said side edges of said climbing surface; and an upper end support which supports said upper frame member, and thus said upper end of said climbing surface, above a ground surface.21 . The playground climber of Claim 20 further including a lower end support which supports said lower frame member, and thus said lower end of said climbing surface, above the ground surface; said lower end support being shorter than said upper end support.

22. The playground climber of Claim 21 wherein said upper end support and said lower end support each comprise a pair of spaced apart legs.

23. The playground climber of any of Claims 20-22 wherein upper support comprises a frame member of a playground play structure.

24. The playground climber of any of Claims 20-22 wherein said upper support comprises a hub; said hub comprising hub frame comprising two or more hub frame members defining a closed shape defining a hub area, wherein at least one of said hub frame members is straight, a filler in said hub area; said filler being adapted to support children; at least said straight hub frame member being supported above a ground surface; said climbing surface upper frame member being operatively connected to said straight hub frame member.

25. The playground climber of Claim 24 wherein said filler comprises netting.

26. The playground climber of claim 25 wherein said filler further comprises tread inserts.

27. The playground climber of any of Claims 24-26 wherein said hub frame is generally horizontal.

28. The playground climber of any of Claims 24-27 wherein said hub frame comprises at least two straight frame members, wherein said climbing surface defines a first climbing surface; said climber including a second sloped climbing surface sloping downwardly from a second straight hub frame member; said second sloped climbing surface comprising: an upper face, a lower face opposite said upper face, a lower end proximate or in contact with a ground surface, an upper spaced above said ground surface to be in a plane vertically above said lower end, and opposed side edges extending between said lower and upper ends; wherein, said upper face of said surface comprises a first portion having simulated turf and a second portion that is free of simulated turf.

29. The playground climber of any of Claims 24-28 including a play element, such as a hammock-like member or netting, supported below said hub frame.

30. The playground climber of Claim 29 wherein said hub is supported by at least two legs; said play element being mounted to or suspended between said at least two legs.

31. A playground climber comprising a rigid sloped climbing surface adapted to support people, said sloped climbing surface spaced at least in part above a ground surface and comprising an upper face, a lower face opposite said upper face , a lower end, an upper end spaced above said lower end, and opposed side edges extending between said lower and upper ends; said lower end, upper end, and opposed side edges of said climbing surface defining a climber plane; wherein, said upper face of said climbing surface comprises at least one first portion having an upper surface formed from a material which is pliable or yieldable under pressure, such as artificial turf or a rubber, and at least one second portion formed from a rigid mesh-like material defining a plurality of openings through said second portion of sufficient number and size such that a user can “see through” said second portion.

32. The playground climber of Claim 31 wherein said second rigid material comprises a metal or a plastic.

33. The playground climber of Claim 32 wherein said second material underlies and supports said first material.

34. A playground climber comprising; a hub, said hub comprising a hub frame comprising two or more hub frame members defining a closed shape defining an area, wherein at least one of said hub frame members is straight, and a filler in an area; said filler being adapted to support children; at least said straight hub frame member being supported above a ground surface; and a climbing surface of any of Claims 1 -19 or 31 -33; said climbing surface being operatively connected to said straight hub frame member.

35. The playground climber of Claim 34 wherein said filler comprises a netting and optionally includes tread inserts.

36. The playground climber of any of Claims 33-34 wherein said hub frame comprises at least two straight frame members, wherein said climbing surface defines a first climbing surface; said climber including a second sloped climbing surface sloping downwardly from a second straight hub frame member; wherein said second sloped climbing surface comprises an upper face, a lower face opposite said upper face, a lower end proximate or in contact with a ground surface, an upper spaced above said ground surface to be in a plane vertically above said lower end, and opposed side edges extending between said lower and upper ends; wherein, said upper face of said surface comprises a first portion having simulated turf and a second portion that is free of simulated turf.

37. The playground climber of Claim 36 wherein said hub is generally horizontal.

38. A method of constructing a hill-like surface above a ground surface, wherein the hill-like surface defines an angle with the ground surface over at least a portion of the hill-like surface, the angle preferably being at least 25 degrees; the method comprising: securing a support structure in the ground, the support structure comprising at least one leg and at least one generally horizontal member being supported above the ground surface by said at least one leg; securing the climber of any of Claims 1 -19 or 32-33 to the at least one generally horizontal member proximate the upper end of said climber.

39. The method of Claim 38 wherein said support structure comprises two or more generally horizontal members; said method comprising securing two or more of climbers proximate their upper ends to two or more of said generally horizontal members.

40. A playground climber comprising a rigid sloped climbing surface spaced at least in part above a ground surface and adapted to support people, said sloped climbing surface comprising an upper face, a lower face opposite said upper face, a lower end, an upper end spaced above said lower end, and opposedside edges extending between said lower and upper ends; said lower end, upper end, and opposed side edges of said climbing surface defining a climber plane; wherein, said sloped climbing surface is formed from a pliable material, such as an artificial turf or rubber, a rigid material, such as a rigid plastic or metal, or combinations thereof.

41. The playground climber of Claim 40 wherein said pliable material defines the entire upper surface of said climber, said climber including a rigid base material on which said pliable material rests to provide structural support to said pliable material.

42. The playground climber of Claim 41 wherein said rigid base material comprises said rigid material.

43. The playground climber of Claim 40 wherein said rigid material defines the entire upper surface of said climber.

44. The playground climber of any of Claims 40-43 further comprising one or more activity elements accessible from either, or both of, said upper face and lower face; said activity elements comprising any combination of the following: one or more upper climbing elements selected from the group consisting of rails, ropes, netting, hand holds, climbing blocks, and combinations thereof; said rails comprising banister rails and / or an agility grid; or one or more lower climbing elements on said lower face of said climbing surface; said lower climbing elements including handle grips, climbing grips, ropes, or nets; one or more sensory elements which are visually and / or auditorily stimulating; wherein said sensory elements are preferably drums and / or rotatable elements, and wherein the rotatable elements are preferably both visually and auditorily stimulating.

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