Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
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MODULAR ACTIVITY BOARD
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[ 0001 ] This application claims priority to United States Patent Application
No.
14/710,141, filed on May 12, 2015 and titled "Modular Exercise Board", the
disclosure of
which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[ 0002 ] The presently disclosed subject matter relates to a modular fitness
apparatus.
BACKGROUND
[ 0003 ] Traditional fitness equipment is generally limited to one exercise
type or a select
few exercise types. Consequently, it is typical that multiple separate pieces
of fitness
equipment are used in order to exercise different muscle groups. This causes
individuals to
acquire multiple pieces of fitness equipment or to join a gym to get access to
the many
different gym machines. Traditional fitness systems, therefore, are costly,
take up a lot of
space, and/or provide a degree of inconvenience in having to travel to a gym.
SUMMARY
[ 0004 ] One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a modular activity
board. The
modular activity board may be configurable for many different activities. The
activity board
may include multiple accessories for use with the modular activity board. The
modular
activity board may comprise a deck. The deck may include a top and a bottom
surface. The
deck may have a long axis and a short axis, with long axis being longer than
the short axis.
The deck of the modular activity module may comprise a pair of activity
accessory receivers.
The activity accessory receivers may be positioned laterally from the through
passage on
either end of the deck. Each of the activity accessory receivers may be
configured for
removably mounting an activity accessory. An activity accessory coupling
mechanism may
be disposed in the deck for receiving and coupling the activity accessories
with the deck in
the activity accessory receivers. The activity accessory coupling mechanism
may be
configured to facilitate locking of the activity accessories in a non-rotating
position relative to
the deck.
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[00051 In one aspect a modular and reconfigurable activity system is
described. The
modular and reconfigurable activity system can include modular activity board
formed of a
deck having a top surface, a bottom surface, a first end portion, a second end
portion, and
opposing side rails. Each of the first and second end portions can be angled
upward from the
top surface of the deck. The deck can be defined by a longitudinal axis
through the first end
portion and the second end portion, and a latitudinal axis through an
approximate center of
the deck through the opposing side rails. The deck can further have a first
activity accessory
receiver proximate the first end portion and a second activity accessory
receiver proximate
the second end portion. Each of the first and second activity accessory
receivers can be
defined by a single circular aperture and having a first locking mechanism
therewith.
[00061 The modular and reconfigurable activity system can include a set of
activity
accessories. Each activity accessory of the set of activity accessories can
comprise an
attachment platform that is sized and configured to mate within the single
circular aperture.
The attachment platform can further have a second locking mechanism therewith
to cooperate
with the first locking mechanism to releasably secure the attachment platform
within the
single circular aperture. Each activity accessory can further comprise an
activity mechanism
extending from a top and/or bottom of the attachment platform to enable an
activity to be
performed by a rider of the modular activity board when the activity accessory
is secured to
the deck.
[ 0007 1 The activity mechanism of the activity accessory can be one or more
wheels on an
axle mounted to the bottom of the attachment platform; a roll stopper mounted
to the bottom
of the attachment platform; a bounce ball mounted to the bottom of the
attachment platform;
or a scooter handle mounted to the top of the attachment platform, one or more
wheels on an
axle mounted to the bottom of the attachment platform, or the like
[00081 In another aspect, a modular exercise board is described. The modular
exercise
board can include a deck. The deck may include a through passage at the
intersection of the
axes. The through passage may be configured for removably mounting a plurality
of
different center modules. The deck may include a center module coupling
mechanism for
receiving and coupling center modules with the deck in the through passage.
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[ 0 0 09] The center module coupling mechanism may be configured to lock the
center
module in a non-rotating position relative to the deck.
[ 0010] The activity accessory coupling mechanism(s) in the deck may include a
thread
portion for receiving a complimentary thread portion of said activity
accessory. The activity
accessory coupling mechanism(s) may further comprise a locking mechanism for
locking the
activity accessories in a non-rotating position relative to said deck. In some
variations, the
deck may further comprise a first portion of the locking mechanism and the
activity
accessories may further comprise a second portion of the locking mechanism
configured to
engage with the first potion.
[ 0011] The deck may comprise multiple first portions of the locking mechanism
at either
end of the deck. The multiple first portions of the locking mechanism may be
configured to
engage with the second portion of the locking mechanism on each the activity
accessories to
provide multiple locking positions for the activity accessories in the
activity accessory
receivers.
[ 0012] In some variations the activity accessories comprise an activity
accessory locking
mechanism configured to couple the activity accessories with the activity
accessory receiving
portions in the deck. The activity accessory locking mechanism may comprise a
locking
member. An actuator may be provided that is configured to actuate the locking
member. The
activity accessory locking mechanism may comprise a biasing member. The
biasing member
may be configured to provide a bias to cause the locking member to maintain
engagement
with said deck. The bias provided by the biasing member may include a force
that is directed
substantially parallel to the plane of the activity accessory causing the
locking mechanism to
be pushed into the periphery of the activity accessory receiver when the
activity accessory is
disposed in the activity accessory receiver of the deck. The deck may comprise
a locking
mechanism receiver configured to receive the locking mechanism of the activity
accessory to
facilitate securing the activity accessory in the activity accessory receiver.
The actuator of
the locking mechanism may be configured to overcome the bias provided by the
biasing
member to facilitate release of said locking member from said deck. The
actuator of the
locking mechanism may be configured to facilitate a user overcoming the bias
provided by
the biasing member.
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[ 0013 ] The center module of a modular exercise board may be selected from a
plurality
of different types of center modules for performing different types of
exercises. For example,
the center module may be selected from the group consisting of a roller ball,
a bounce ball, a
flush deck plug, a halo destabilizer, an aggressive bounce ball, or other
center modules. The
selection of center modules may further comprise floor contacting bases
configured to mount
in said through passage and to contact a floor surface when said board is in
use. In some
variations, a first portion of the center module may extend below the deck. A
second portion
of the center module may be generally level with a top surface of the deck.
[ 0014 ] The exercise accessories may be selected from a plurality of
different types of
exercise accessories for performing different types of exercises. For example,
the exercise
accessory may be selected from the group consisting of a hand grip, a flat
disc with a foot
strap, a deck plug, a ring with attached resilient bands, a balance roller
stopper, a skateboard
truck, or other exercise accessory. The exercise accessories may be selected
to complement
the selected center module. In some use cases, the selection of the exercise
accessory may be
independent of the selection of the center module.
[ 0015 ] The exercise board may further comprise resilient bands attached to
the deck for
use by a user when standing on said deck.
[ 0016 ] In one variation, the exercise accessory receivers may be generally
circular
passages into which the exercise accessory is removably mounted. The passages
may be
formed on one side by a portion of a circle in the deck, and on the opposite
side by a
removable C shaped portion which completes a circular lateral receiver
position passage
when attached to the deck.
[ 0017 ] Another aspect of the present disclosure is directed to an apparatus
for receiving
one or more attachment modules. The attachment modules provide an exercise
accessory to
enable an exercise mode. The apparatus may comprise a deck having a top
surface, a bottom
surface, a proximal end, a distal end, and opposing side portions. The deck
may further have
a long axis from the proximal end to the distal end, and a short axis between
the opposing
side portions, the long axis being longer than the short axis.
[ 0018 ] The apparatus may comprise one or more attachment mechanisms
associated with
at least one of the top surface and/or the bottom surface of the deck. The one
or more
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attachment mechanisms may have a coupling mechanism, where each of the one or
more
attachment mechanisms of the deck is configured to couple with the attachment
mechanism
of the one or more attachment modules. Each attachment module of the set of
attachment
modules may provide the exercise mode for use with the deck. The coupling
mechanism of
each of the one or more attachment mechanisms may be configured to couple the
attachment
module with the attachment mechanism after the attachment mechanism couples
with the
attachment module.
[ 0019] In some variations, the coupling mechanism of each of the one or more
attachment
mechanisms is configured to lock the attachment module in a non-rotating
position with the
attachment mechanism after the attachment mechanism couples with the
attachment module.
[ 0020] In some variations, at least one of the one or more attachment
mechanisms is a
single through passage between the top surface and the bottom surface of the
deck. The
single through passage may be defined by an inner perimeter, and includes a
thread along at
least a portion of the inner perimeter. The locking mechanism may be
associated with the
through passage and may include a retractable pin to engage a corresponding
notch in the
attachment module. In other variations, the locking mechanism may be
associated with the
through passage and includes a notch for receiving a retractable pin in the
attachment
module.
[ 0021] The center module can be a generally resilient protuberance below the
deck, and
may or may not extend above the deck. The part of the center module which
extends below
the deck can be firm but resilient and provide a certain amount of bounce for
springing
motion when in contact with the floor below the device. One version of the
center module is
less springy and less bouncy, and provides a stable platform for exercises not
involving
rebound. The center module can also have rebound enhancing devices such as
springs to
cause greater rebound. The center module can include a mounting means such as
a locking
ring, which can be configured in various ways to removably lock the center
module in place
in the deck. The mounting means can be essentially a ring with extending arms
which twist
into a locking place by a quarter turn or quarter screw, into receiving slots
or threads built
into the deck. The center module can have portion that extends below the deck
which can be
rounded on the bottom or can be flat, or have a portion extending above the
deck, with our
without a hand grip. The locking means can be a bayonet type mount, in which
tabs on the
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side of the locking ring fit into tabs in the deck, so that when the locking
ring is rotated in one
direction, the tabs lock into place in the deck. The center module can have a
portion that
protrudes above the deck surface and that portion can be a generally tubular
section with a
hand grip built into the end. It can also be generally flush with the top of
the deck and not
extend above the top of the deck.
[ 0022 ] One example of an exercise accessory is a ring which has a hand grip
in its center.
The hand grips would be spaced at an appropriate distance from each other to
provide a user
a position to do pushups with the hand grips turned to various positions in
order to exercise
different muscle groups of the arms and shoulders. The exercise accessory in
the form of a
hand grip can also be locked solidly in place into a preferred embodiment such
as
perpendicular to the long axis of the deck. Other examples of exercise
accessories can be a
skate board truck with wheels which mounts in place in the lateral receiving
positions, which
makes the deck of the exercise board into a skate board. Another example of a
lateral exercise
accessory is one which is round and disc like and locks into place, flush with
the deck, and
has straps which engage the user's feet to hold them in place.
[ 0023 ] In one configuration of the disclosed technology, in one version of
the deck, the
end pieces of the deck are removable. In this version with the removable deck
tips, with the
deck tips removed the exercise accessory is exposed and is able to slide out
of its engagement
with the deck. When the deck tips are installed around the lateral exercise
accessory, the
accessory is locked in place in the deck and ready for use. The deck can also
include
resistance band attachments which slip into prepared slots or attachment
points in the deck.
The band anchors are thus locked in place in the deck tips, and a cable may be
attached to a
fixed anchor position in order to create resistance for the user when
maneuvering the base
station. The deck may also include hand grip areas which are on the short axis
of the deck,
and adjacent to the center module. A version of the deck which has these
supplemental hand
grips could thus have four or five hand grip positions. The two supplemental
hand grips, the
two lateral exercise accessories in the form of hand grips, and the top part
of the center
module in the form of a hand grip.
[ 0024 ] The center module can be of a resilient rubber like material which
protrudes
below the deck as well as above the deck. The above the deck portion can have
a hollow top
with a hand grip region in the top. The center module can also be formed of a
collar portion
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which locks in place an omni-directional ball, so that the ball may rotate
like a ball at the end
of a ball point pen, while supporting the deck. The above deck portion of this
type of center
module can be of a hard plastic and have a hand grip. Another version of the
center module is
one in which the portion below the deck is a flat bottom disc like shape, with
little or no
portion protruding above the deck. There are attachment options and devices
for the center
module as well as the lateral mounting positions. These optional devices can
make the deck
into a balance board, so that the user may balance over a cylinder which is
free to rotate.
[ 0025] The details of one or more embodiments are set forth in the
accompanying
drawings and the description below. Other features and advantages will be
apparent from the
description and drawings, and from the claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[ 0026 ] These and other aspects will now be described in detail with
reference to the
following drawings.
[ 0027] FIG. I is a perspective view of one embodiment of the deck of the
disclosed
device having one or more features consistent with the presently disclosed
subject matter;
[ 0028] FIG. 2 depicts an alternative implementation of an attachment having
one or more
features consistent with the presently disclosed subject matter;
[ 0029] FIG. 3 depicts an exemplary implementation of a locking mechanism for
use with
an attachment having one or more features consistent with the presently
disclosed subject
matter;
[ 0030] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the disclosed
modular exercise
device having one or more features consistent with the presently disclosed
subject matter;
[0031] FIG. 5 is a side view of an embodiment of the disclosed technology
having one or
more features consistent with the presently disclosed subject matter;
[ 0032 ] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the disclosed
technology,
having one or more features consistent with the presently disclosed subject
matter;
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[ 0033] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the disclosed
technology,
having one or more features consistent with the current subject matter;
[ 0034] FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of an embodiment of the
disclosed
technology, having one or more features consistent with the current subject
matter;
[ 0035] FIG. 9 shows a variety of center modules for an exercise board having
one or
more features consistent with the presently disclosed subject matter;
[ 0036] FIG. 10 is an exploded view of the roller ball version of center
module for use
with an exercise device having one or more features consistent with the
presently disclosed
subject matter.
[ 0037] FIG. 11 is a cross sectional view of the roller ball version of center
module
illustrated in FIG. 10;
[ 0038] FIG. 12 is an illustration of a center module for use with an exercise
device devise
having one or more features consistent with the disclosed subject matter;
[ 0039] FIG. 13 is an illustration of an engagement ring for use with the
center module
illustrated in FIG. 12;
[ 0040] FIG. 14 is an illustration of a center module for use with an exercise
device having
one having one or more features consistent with the disclosed subject matter;
[ 0041] FIG. 15 is an illustration of a center module for use with an exercise
device having
one having one or more features consistent with the disclosed subject matter;
[ 0042] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of certain exercise attachments for use
with an
exercise device having one or more features consistent with the disclosed
subject matter;
[ 0043] FIG. 17 is an illustration of an attachment for use with an exercise
device having
one or more features consistent with the disclosed subject matter;
[ 0044] FIG. 18 is an illustration of an attachment for use with an exercise
device having
one or more features consistent with the disclosed subject matter;
[ 0045] FIG. 19 is a roller for use with the attachment illustrated in FIG.
18; and,
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[ 004 6 ] FIG. 20 is an illustration of an attachment for use with an exercise
device having
one or more features consistent with the disclosed subject matter.
[ 0047 ] FIG. 21 is an illustration of a modular activity board having one or
more features
consistent with the disclosed subject matter;
[ 0048 ] FIG. 22 illustrates an exploded view of the modular activity board of
FIG. 21;
[ 004 9 ] FIG. 23 is an illustration of a modular activity board having one or
more features
consistent with the disclosed subject matter;
[ 0050 ] FIG. 24 illustrates an exploded view of the modular activity board of
FIG. 23;
[0051] FIG. 25 is an illustration of a modular activity board, with a pivoting
wheel
accessory, having one or more features consistent with the disclosed subject
matter;
[0052] FIG. 26 illustrates an exploded view of the modular activity board of
FIG. 25;
[0053] FIG. 27 is an illustration of a modular activity board, with a set of
scooter
accessories, having one or more features consistent with the disclosed subject
matter;
[0054] FIG. 28 illustrates an exploded view of the modular activity board of
FIG. 27;
[0055] FIG. 29 is an illustration of a modular activity board, with a set of
skateboard
accessories, having one or more features consistent with the disclosed subject
matter;
[0056] FIG. 30 illustrates an exploded view of the modular activity board of
FIG. 29;
[0057] FIG. 31 is an illustration of an activity accessory locking mechanism
having one
or more features consistent with the disclosed subject matter;
[0058] FIG. 32 illustrates an exploded view of the activity accessory locking
mechanism
illustrated in FIG. 31; and,
[0059] FIG. 33 illustrates an alternative exploded view of the activity
accessory locking
mechanism illustrated in FIG. 31.
[0060] Like reference symbols in the various drawings indicate like elements.
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DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[ 0061 ] This document describes a modular exercise device configured to
facilitate a user
in the performance of different exercises using the same piece of equipment.
[ 0062 ] While the presently disclosed inventive concept(s) is susceptible of
various
modifications and alternative constructions, certain illustrated embodiments
thereof have
been shown in the drawings and will be described below in detail. It should be
understood,
however, that there is no intention to limit the inventive concept(s) to the
specific form
disclosed, but, on the contrary, the presently disclosed and claimed inventive
concept(s) is to
cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling
within the spirit and
scope of the inventive concept(s) as defined in the claims.
[ 0063 ] Referring to FIG. 1, illustrated is an exemplary embodiment of a
deck 100 for
a modular exercise board. The deck may have a long axis 102 and a short axis
104. A
through passage 106 may be defined at the intersection 108 of the long axis
102 and the short
axis 104. The through passage 106 may be configured for removably mounting a
plurality of
different center modules. The deck 106 may comprise a center module coupling
mechanism
110. The center module coupling mechanism 110 may be configured to receive and
couple a
center module with the deck 100 in the through passage 106.
[ 0064 ] The deck 100 may comprise a pair of exercise accessory receivers 112.
The
exercise accessory receivers 112 may be positioned laterally from the through
passage 106.
The exercise accessory receivers 112 may be positioned on either end of the
deck 100. The
exercise accessory receivers 112 may be configured for removably mounting an
exercise
accessory. An exercise accessory coupling mechanism 114 may be disposed in the
deck 100.
The exercise accessory coupling mechanism 114 may be configured for receiving
and
coupling exercise accessories.
[ 0065 ] FIG. 2 depicts an implementation of an attachment 200, or modular
exercise
accessory. The attachment 200 may include a handgrip 202. The handgrip 202 may
be
coupled with and mounted horizontally within a mounting mechanism 204. The
mounting
mechanism 204 may be configured for mounting the attachment 200 in any of a
number of
apertures or openings in a deck, such as deck 100 as shown in FIG. 1. The
aperture or
opening can be positioned at any location in the deck 100. The mounting
mechanism 204 can
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be circular ring for fitting within a circular opening in the deck. In such an
implementation,
the mounting mechanism 204 can be snap-fit into the opening, by way of one or
more pins
that extend, retractable or not, from the mounting mechanism 204, or the
mounting
mechanism 204 can take any shape to correspond with a shape of the aperture.
For instance,
the aperture may be squared, and the mounting mechanism can include a squared
frame that
is sized and adapted to fit within the squared aperture, as well as one or
more pins, latches,
tabs, grooves, or the like, to interlock with a corresponding structure at the
aperture in the
deck.
[00661 The handle 202 of the attachment 200 can be tubular, or can include one
or more
bulges, protuberances, ridges, grooves, channels, finger grips, etc., so as to
allow a better grip
by a user's hand. In some preferred implementations, the handle 202 can be
horizontal, i.e. in
a plane of the top surface of the deck when the modular exercise accessory 100
is coupled
with the deck. In other implementations, the handle 202 can include at least
one portion that
is angled away from a plane of the board. The handle 202 can also be covered
or wrapped at
least in part by a compressible material such as foam, plastic, rubber, or the
like, or can be
formed of a unitary rigid material along with the mounting mechanism 204.
[00671 The attachment 200 can further include a coupling mechanism 206 to lock
the
mounting mechanism 204 of the attachment 200 in a fixed mounted position with
the aperture
and deck. As illustrated in FIG. 2, the coupling mechanism 206 includes an
actuator 208 that
actuates a locking member 210. In some preferred implementations, the locking
member 210
is a tab, or pin, that fits into a corresponding receiving notch in an
opening, or through
passage, of the deck. In some other implementations, the locking member 210
can be one or
more of a pin, a latch, a bolt, a screw, a threading, a groove, a ridge, or
the like, that
cooperates with a corresponding structure on the deck or opening.
[00681 In some variations of the presently disclosed subject matter, the
coupling
mechanism 206 may be disposed in the deck and include a locking member 210,
such as a tab
or pin, that is configured to engage with a corresponding notch disposed in
the one or more
attachments 200. In some variations, multiple coupling mechanisms 206 each
having a
locking member 210 and corresponding notch may be disposed about the
attachment, or
modular exercise accessory, 200.
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[ 0 069 ] The locking member 210 may be extended and retracted by operation of
the
actuator 208. In some implementations, the actuator 208 is a spring-loaded
button within the
handle 202 and/or mounting mechanism 204. The spring-loaded button can be
biased to
extend the locking member 210, so as to maintain the locking member in the
corresponding
locking structure of the deck or aperture, and which bias can be overcome by
user activation
(i.e. sliding the button toward the center of the attachment 200 and away from
a side of the
aperture) of the actuator 208. In other implementations, the actuator 208 can
be a spring
loaded button that is mounted so as to extend upwardly, either perpendicular
or at an angle,
from the handle 202 and/or mounting mechanism 204, and which drives the
locking member
210 to retract and extend.
[ 0070 ] As discussed above, the locking member 210 has a locked position,
such as being
a tab that is extended from the mounting mechanism, and an unlocked position,
such as when
the tab is retracted into the mounting mechanism. Other forms of locked and
unlocked
positions can be employed, such as a hinged latch that can be actuated to
rotate to connect
with a ridge or indent, or other latch, at the aperture or deck. In preferred
implementations,
the attachment 200 includes only a single locking mechanism 206 for enabling
one-handed
operation of the actuator 208 and coordinated removal or mounting of the
attachment 200
from or to the deck, respectively. In other implementations, the attachment
200 can include
two or more locking mechanism 206, arranged on the attachment 200 for greater
securement
and locking, and lowering the ease with which the attachment 200 can be
disengaged from
the deck. In some implementations, a single actuator 208 may operate the
multiple locking
members 210.
[ 0071 ] In some implementations, the mounting mechanism 204 of the attachment
200
may include a flange 212. The flange 212 may be configured to engage with a
complementary flange in one or more apertures, or openings, in a deck, such as
deck 100
shown in FIG. 1. The flange 212 may be configured to rotatably engage with a
complimentary flange(s) of one or more apertures, or openings, in a deck, such
as to be
screwed into the apertures, or openings, in the deck.
[ 0072 ] FIG. 3 shows an exemplary embodiment of a locking mechanism 206 for
use with
an attachment 200. The locking mechanism 206 may include an actuator 208 and a
locking
member 210. As discussed above, the locking member 210 may be extended and
retracted by
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operation of the actuator 208. The actuator 208 may be a spring-loaded button
disposed
within the attachment 200. The spring-loaded button can be biased to extend
the locking
member 210 laterally with the attachment 200. The spring-loading may be
provided by one
or more biasing elements 214. The locking mechanism 206 may be disposed in the
attachment 200 in a locking mechanism receiver 216 (as shown in FIG. 2). The
locking
mechanism receiver 216 may include a locking mechanism cover 218 configured to
secure
the locking mechanism 206 into the locking mechanism receiver 216. The locking
mechanism receiver 216 may have a shape complimentary to the locking mechanism
206.
The locking mechanism receiver 216 may have a shape adapted to engage with the
one or
more biasing elements 214. The shape of the locking mechanism housing 216 may
cause the
biasing elements 214 to be deformed inwardly, toward each other, when the
actuator 208 is
slid laterally away from the perimeter of the attachment 200. Deforming the
biasing elements
214 inwardly may cause the biasing elements 214 to become biased and tend to
try to
reposition themselves in their original configuration. The shape of the
locking mechanism
housing 216 may be such that when the actuator 208 is slid sideways and then
released the
locking mechanism 206 slides laterally in the locking mechanism receiver 216
causing the
locking member 210 to extend from the periphery of the attachment 200.
[ 0073] In some variations, the locking member 210 may be configured to
retract when the
attachment 200 is initially disposed in an opening of the deck. The locking
member 210 may
include a sloped portion and when the attachment 200 is pushed into an opening
of the deck
the perimeter of the opening engages with the sloped portion causing the
locking member 210
to retract and engage the biasing elements 214. When the locking member 210 is
situated
adjacent to a receiving notch, the locking member 210 may extend into the
notch, due to the
biasing elements 214 returning to their prior state. The apparatus may
function similarly
where the locking mechanism 206 is disposed in the board. Engagement of an
attachment
against the sloped locking member may cause the sloped locking member to
retract.
[ 0074] As shown in FIG. 4, the fitness device 400 may be comprised of a deck
402 with a
through passage 404 with a locking mechanism that allows users to quickly
shift from one
exercise mode to another by installing different attachments, or modular
exercise accessories.
Shown in FIG. 4 is an exercise board 400which includes a deck 402 with a top
surface 406
and a bottom surface 408. The deck 402 includes a long axis 410 and a short
axis 412. At the
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intersection of the long and short axis is located a through passage 404 which
provides an
opening in the center of the deck 402. The through passage 404 is configured
to receive a
center module 14, which can take various configurations. The center module 414
can extend
below the deck 402, it can extend above the deck 404, it can be flush with the
surface of the
deck either above or below, and it can also be flush with both the top and
bottom surface of
the deck. Such a configuration may occur when the exercise device 400 is
modified for use as
a skateboard, as discussed in reference to other figures. In implementations
consistent with
the illustration of FIG. 4, the center module 414 can have a hand grip 416 at
its top, above the
deck.
[00751 The exercise board includes a mounting mechanism 418 which can be a
rotating
ring 420 such as that shown in FIG. 4. The rotating ring may be a stationary
ring relative to
the deck 402, but allow the center module 414 to rotate relative to the
rotating ring 420. In
the mounting mechanism of FIG. 4, extending tabs 422 extend out from the
rotating ring 420
and fit into slots 424. The slots 424 can allow the rotating ring 420 to lock
into place by a
partial twist of the rotating ring, or they can fit into threads which allow
the rotating ring 420
to be secured by threading it into place. Shown in FIG. 4 is a pair of lateral
receiving
positions 428. The lateral receiving positions 428 may be exercise accessory
receivers. The
lateral receiving positions 428 may be disposed on either side of the center
module 414. The
lateral receiving positions 428 may be configured to facilitate removable
installation of a
number of different types of exercise accessories 430. In the view shown in
FIG. 4, the
exercise accessory is a hand grip 432, but other types of exercise accessories
are available,
and it is an important concept of the present device that the exercise board
utilizes a center
module selected from a number of available center modules, and exercise
accessories
selected from a number of available exercise accessories.
[00761 The board 400 can be various sizes and shapes. In many configurations
the deck
402 is longer in the long axis 410 than in the short axis 412. The deck can be
made of a
number of materials, including plastic, wood, graphite, aluminum, or other
materials which
are suitably strong and light for the intended purpose of exercise. The top
side 406 of the
deck can be plastic polyethylene, and can have a textured surface for grip and
aesthetic
appeal. One typical configuration of the deck would be 26.7 in long, and 14.9
in wide, with a
deck thickness of 0.78. The receiver positions, or modular exercise receivers,
can be from 1.5
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in to 3 inches in diameter, for example. The through passage 404 can be 8.6
inches to 10
inches in diameter, as an example.
[00771 The underside of the deck can be lined with hard plastic rails that
allow the board
to easily slide across any smooth surface. This allows users to perform a wide
range of core-
strengthening exercises and upper- and lower-body strength-training exercises,
such as
abdominal pikes, offset push with lateral extension, and reverse lunges.
[ 0078] The disclosed exercise device may include a threaded locking system
for the
center module. The threaded locking system for the center module may include a
dual-phase
mechanism that secures center module attachments. Center module units will
assert an
upward or downward force into the deck 402 via the through passage 404, twist,
and lock into
place. Center module attachments may be configured to remain locked in place
in the deck
402 until released. Such release may be facilitated by a release button or
other release device,
on the top or bottom side of the deck 402 adjacent the through passage 404.
Such release
device may be a release button, or actuator, disposed in the center module
attachment 414. In
some variations, the release device may be disposed in the rotating ring 420.
[00791 In some variations of the present subject matter, users can remove
center module
attachments and/or modular exercise accessories by twisting them out of the
threaded
opening, or bayonet.
[00801 Depending on the configuration that the user chooses to create with the
exercise
board 400, by combining different center modules 414 and different modular
exercise
accessories 430, the side view of the device could look quite different than
illustrated in FIG.
4. Shown in FIG. 5 in side view is a ring structure 432 which is one type of
mounting means
for securing the center module 414 to the deck 402. Also shown in FIG. 5 is a
side view of a
particular example of a center module 414. This particular example of a center
module 414 is
made up of a lower half which is generally a half sphere, and a partial sphere
on the top,
above the deck. The upper portion of this particular example of a center
module 414 has a top
that is flat with a handle. This version of the center module 414 is called a
bounce ball, and it
is preferably inflated rather than solid. It is resilient and made of a
flexible material, such as
rubber, urethane, PVC or another flexible material.
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[ 0 0 8 1] The bounce ball is configured to create a very unstable surface so
that the user
uses the motion of bouncing to develop balance, coordination and strength.
Additionally, the
bounce ball attachment develops the cardiovascular system as the bouncing
action mimics
that of a rebounder or mini trampoline. Bouncing will increase the user's
heart rate, so the
bounce ball attachment is well suited for interval training where users bounce
vigorously for
a short period of time to spike their heart rate, and then slow or stop the
bounce to recover.
The process is repeated for a desired period of intervals over a desired
period of time. To
bounce, the user stands on the deck. Foot straps can be used, or the feet can
be placed over
hand grips or handles, or the lateral receiver positions can be loaded with
discs that cover the
openings. To bounce, users can strap feet into the board using the lateral
attachments or they
can squeeze the above deck portion of the ball between their feet for grip. A
small initial hop
by the user can be built into larger bounces as the user initiates the
bouncing movement. The
topside is designed so the feet can wedge underneath the most bulbous part of
the ball to give
grip and control.
[ 0082] The bounce ball attachment version of the center module 141 can be
used for both
upper and lower body strength exercises such as pushups or squats. For a
pushup, the hands
can be anywhere on the deck, but they will most likely be used in the hand
grip 432
configuration in the modular exercise accessories attachment positions.
Through these
exercises, users develop greater balance, core strength, and engage stabilizer
muscles.
[ 0083] Referring to FIG. 6, the fitness device can include a center module
414 in the form
of an inflatable shaped ball, such as shown in FIG. 10, that features a ring
causing the
inflatable ball to be at its narrowest point at the ring. The ring facilitates
securing of the ball
to the deck 402. FIG. 6 is an embodiment of the device and includes a center
module similar
to that shown in FIG. 3. It also includes a ring structure 434, which fits
into a mounting
means 418. In this case the ring structure 434 is larger than that shown in
FIG. 1 and includes
a hand grip 436. In the view shown in FIG. 6, the deck 402 is formed of a
first half 438 and a
second half 440, with the two halves locked together by a lock 442. The lock
442 may be a
cam lock. In this particular embodiment the cam lock 442 is part of the
mounting means 48,
and because it reduces the circumference of the through passage 404, it thus
locks the deck
402 more tightly around the ring structure 434. The version shown in FIG. 6
also includes
end pieces 444 which are attachable and removable from the deck 402. The end
pieces 444
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sandwich the selected modular exercise accessory 430 into the lateral receiver
position 428.
In this case, the hand grip 432 is the selected lateral exercise accessory
430.
[ 0084] Additionally, the exercise device can include removable elastic
resistance bands
that fit into clip structures or grooves at the bottom of the unit and through
the handles at
either side. This feature allows users to easily hold onto the fitness device
as they jump, using
bands held in the hands and attached to the deck. It also allows them to
engage in strength-
training exercises, such as bicep curls and deltoid raises.
[ 0085] FIG. 7 shows a variation of the exercise board 400 which includes a
center
module 414 which in this particular example extends above as well as below the
deck 402.
The mounting means 418 in this particular example is a pair of arcuate tabs
which fit into
corresponding slots and allow the mounting ring 446 to be rotated a partial
turn in order to
secure it into the through passage 404 of the deck 402. The embodiment shown
in FIG. 7 also
includes a first half 438 and a second half 440 of the deck 402 which as in
the case of the
device shown in FIG. 6. A lock 442, such as a cam lock, secures the mounting
ring 446 in
place securely and joins the first half 438 with the second half 440. Shown in
FIG. 7 are
modular exercise accessories 430 which are similar to those previously shown.
Also shown in
FIG. 7 are band anchors 448. The band anchors 448 clip into place on the deck,
and allow the
attachment of resilient exercise bands. The exercise bands can be utilized
with handles on one
end for such exercises as bicep curls, deltoid raises, or other exercises
which can act against
these bands.
[ 0086 ] FIG. 8 shows another version of the exercise device 400 which
includes a center
module 414 with a mounting ring 446 which is part of a mounting mechanism 418.
This
device includes a through passage 404, and in this case the modular exercise
accessory
receivers 428 are without a modular exercise accessory. The modular exercise
accessory
receivers may be configured to form hand grips without any attachments. The
upper portion
of the center module 414 includes a hand grip 416.
[ 0087] FIG. 9 shows a variety of center modules 414 including some that
protrude above
and below the deck, some that are flush with the deck, some that protrude only
below the
deck and some that protrude only above the deck are also possible. The center
module on the
left is a bounce ball, the next to the right is a deck plug, at the top left
is a halo destabilizer,
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and the center module on the lower right is a roller ball, which has a
rotating ball on one side
of the center module, which can roll in any direction on the floor. A version
of the bounce
ball is one in which mechanical devices such as springs are included, to
enhance the energy
returned to the user in the form of bounces. This version of the bounce ball
is called an
aggressive bounce ball.
[ 0 0 8 8 ] FIG. 9, middle figure shows an optional center module called the
halo
destabilization module 450. The function of the halo destabilization module is
to create a
moderate and variable unstable surface that increases difficulty, develops and
improves
stability and strength through a wide range of upper and lower body exercises.
The user can
stand on the deck with the halo destabilization module in place, and do such
exercises are
bicep curls with free weights. While he is doing other exercises, he has to
balance on the
wobbling and unstable deck, so he is working on core muscles at the same time
as doing
bicep curls, as one example. He can also do pushups with the halo
destabilization module in
place, and get a different workout than regular pushups, due the need to use
more muscles to
balance on the constantly shifting deck. The material of the halo
destabilization module
would typically be a softer and more flexible material, and could be a solid
foam or a soft
inflated shape.
[ 0 0 8 9 ] FIG. 10 shows an exploded version of the center module 414 which
is a roller
ball. FIG. 11 shows a cross sectional view of the center module 414
illustrated in FIG. 10.
The roller ball engages with the ground and the deck and can be moved in any
direction. In
the configuration illustrated in FIG. 10, the roller ball 1000 is capable of
freely rolling inside
the housing 1002. This could be used for ab roll outs, where the user has her
knees on the
floor, and pushes the device forward to full extension, and pulls it back
using abdominal
muscles with the ball rolling moving under the user's direction. This
configuration would
facilitate a core workout by the user. The roller ball 1000 is secured by a
housing 1002. The
housing may include a bearing 1004. The bearing 1004 may be disposed
perpendicular to an
axis of the center module 414. The 1004 bearing may comprise a plurality of
ball bearings
1006. The bearing 1004 may facilitate movement by ball 1000 in any direction.
In some
variations, the bearing 1004 may limit the movement by the ball 100 in a
limited amount of
directions.
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[00901 In some variations, the ball used in the roller may be a spherical ball
having harder
consistency than the inflatable ones in other center modules as shown in some
of the center
modules in FIG. 9. The roller ball 1000 is secured to the center module 414 by
a housing
1002. A bottom portion 1008 of the housing 1002 may extend below the widest
part of the
ball 1000. A bearing 1004, such as ball bearings, smooth plastic, Teflon, or
another type of
bearing, may be used to facilitate rolling by the captured ball. In some
variations, the
bearing 1004 may be below the widest part of the ball 1000. In some
variations, the housing
1002 may comprise multiple bearings to facilitate movement by the ball 1000
when force
from any direction is applied to the ball 1000. The free movement may be
facilitated through
the ball's 1000 interaction with a horizontal bearing 1004 that surrounds the
ball 1000. The
housing 1002 that encases the roller ball 1000 and the surrounding bearing
1004 may be
opened from the top. This allows for dirt and debris to be cleaned out easily.
This
configuration of center modules may facilitate core exercises and strength
training. As the
ball moves in every direction, it makes contact with the bearing for a smooth
rotation of the
ball.
[ 0 0911 An important feature of the disclosed technology is that the center
module can be
one of several units, the modular exercise accessories can be one of several
units, all of which
can be selected by the user for the exercise he wants to do.
[ 00921 FIG. 12 shows an implementation of center module 1200 for use with an
exercise
device having one or more features consistent with the presently disclosed
subject matter.
FIG. 13 shows an implementation of a mounting ring 1202. The mounting ring
1202 may be
used in conjunction with center module 1200 to mount the center module 1200
into the deck
of an exercise device. Such a deck is illustrated in FIG. 1. The center module
1200 may
include an upper portion 1204 configured to stand proud of the top of the deck
when the
center module 1200 is mounted to the deck. The upper portion 1204 may include
a handle
portion 1206. The handle portion 1206 may be facilitated through indented
portions 1208 in
the top portion 1206 of the center module 1200. The indented portions 1208 may
be formed
in the top portion 1206 of the center module 1200 by way of a mold. In some
implementations, the indented portions 1208 may be carved from the top portion
1206.
[ 00931 The center module 1200 may include a bottom portion 1210. The bottom
portion
1210 may be configured to extend below the bottom of the deck when the center
module
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1200 is mounted into the deck. The bottom portion 1210 may have an arcuate
shape. The
arcuate shape of the bottom portion 1210 extending below the bottom of the
board may
destabilize the board. A destabilized board may facilitate a user engaging
core muscles to
keep the exercise device upright and the board substantially horizontal to the
ground, when
the board is in use.
[ 0094] The center module 1200 may include a mounting ring engaging portion
1212.
The mounting ring engaging portion 1212 may include a portion of the center
module 1200
that is narrower than surrounding portions of the center module 1200. The
mounting ring
engaging portion 1212 may facilitate securing the mounting ring 1202 to the
center module
1200. The mounting ring engaging portion 1212 may be formed by a mold. The
mounting
ring engaging portion 1212 may be formed by being carved from the center
module 1200.
[ 0095] In some variations, the center module 1200 may be inflatable. The
mounting ring
1202 may be affixed to the inflatable center module 1200 during inflation. The
center
module may be disposed through the mounting ring 1202 and inflated. The center
module
1200 may be disposed in the mounting ring 1202 such that the mounting ring
engaging
portion 1212 couples with the mounting ring 1202 as the inflatable center
module 1200 is
inflated. In some variations, the mounting ring 1202 may be affixed to the
center module
1200 (where the center module 1200 may or may not be inflatable) by being
bonded to it.
The mounting ring 1202 may be bonded to the center module 1200 at the mounting
ring
engaging portion 1212. In some variations, the mounting ring 1202 may be
contiguous with
the center module 1200.
[ 0096] The mounting ring 1202 may include mounting flanges 1214. The mounting
flanges 1214 may engage with complimentary flanges in the periphery of the
passage 404 of
the deck 402 as illustrated in FIG. 4. Engagement by the mounting flanges 1214
with the
complimentary flanges in the periphery of the passage 404 of the deck 402 may
occur
through rotational engagement. Engagement by the mounting flanges 1214 with
the
complimentary flanges in the periphery of the passage 404 of the deck 402 may
occur
facilitate securing the center module 1200 into the deck.
[ 0097] FIG. 14 shows an illustration of a center module 1400 for an exercise
device
having one or more features consistent with the presently disclosed subject
matter. The
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particular center module 1400 illustrated in FIG. 14 is a halo destabilizer.
The function of the
halo destabilization module 1400 is to create a moderate and variable unstable
surface that
increases difficulty, develops and improves stability and strength through a
wide range of
upper and lower body exercises. The halo destabilizer may include a circular
support 1402.
The circular support 1402 may be compressible. Upon compression of the
circular support
1402 the outer periphery 1404 and the inner periphery 1406 may flex. The halo
destabilizer
may include a mounting ring 1408. The mounting ring 1408 may be configured to
secure the
halo destabilizer to a board of an exercise device having one or more features
consistent with
the presently disclosed subject matter. An example of such a board is
illustrated in FIG. 1.
[00981 The mounting ring 1408 may be configured to engage directly with the
board.
The mounting ring 1408 may be configured to engage with an intermediate ring,
which, in
turn, is configured to engage with the board. The mounting ring 1408 of the
halo destabilizer
may include mounting pins 1410. The mounting pins 1410 may be configured to
engage with
mounting pin receivers 1412 in a mounting ring 1202, as shown in FIG. 13. The
mounting
pins 1410 may be configured to slidably engage with the mounting pin receivers
1412. This
may facilitate rotation by the deck around the halo destabilizer providing an
additional degree
of freedom.
[ 0 09 9] FIG. 15 shows an embodiment of a center module 1500 for use with an
exercise
device having one having one or more features consistent with the disclosed
subject matter.
The center module 1500 may be configured to cover the through passage of the
deck. Such a
center module 1500 may be used when other center modules are not in use, but,
say, one or
more of the modular exercise accessories are in use. The center module 1500
may have a
coupling mechanism to couple the center module 1500 to the coupling mechanism
of the
through passage of the deck. The center module 1500 may comprise one or more
flanges
1502 as a coupling mechanism for coupling the center module 1500 to the deck.
The one or
more flanges 1502 may engage with a complementary coupling mechanism(s) of the
deck.
The center module 1500 may be coupled with the deck by rotating the center
module 1500
into the through passage of the deck, thereby engaging the one or more flanges
1502 with the
complementary coupling mechanism(s) of the deck. The center module 1500 may
include
finger holes 1504. The finger holes 1504 may facilitate handling by the user.
The finger
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holes 1504 may be used by a user to rotate the center module 1500 into the
through passage
of the deck.
[ 00100 ] FIG. 16 shows several different attachments, or modular exercise
accessories 1600
for attachment to the exercise board. Attachments, or modular exercise
accessories 1600 may
include a skate board truck 1602, a foot strap 1604, hand grips 1606, band
attachment ring
1608, and other modular exercise accessories. The modular exercise accessory
can also be a
deck plug (as shown in FIG. 20). The band attachment ring 1608 may comprise a
spooled
band system. The spooled band system may attach to the ring 1608. The spooled
band
system may attach to the ring at one or more lateral positioning points. The
spooled band
system may be configured to allow the user to adjust the bands' resistance
level and/or length.
Such bands may be used for resistance and strength training purposes. In some
variations, a
clip 1610 may be attached to the other end of the band. The clip 1610 may be
configured to
attach to a handle.
[ 00101 ] FIG. 17 shows an attachment 1700. The attachment 1700 shown in FIG.
17 is a
skateboard truck. The exercise accessory 1700 may comprise a coupling
mechanism 1702.
The coupling mechanism 1702 may be configured to couple the attachment 1700 to
an
exercise accessory receiver on either end of the board. The attachment 1700
may include a
locking mechanism receiver 1704. The locking mechanism receiver 1704 may be
configured
to receive a locking mechanism, such as the locking mechanism 206 illustrated
in FIG. 3.
[ 00102] Two skateboard trucks may be coupled to the board. Each skateboard
truck may
be coupled to a different exercise accessory receiver on either end of the
board. Such a
configuration may resemble a skateboard. A user of the modular exercise device
may use the
modular exercise device as they would a skateboard.
[ 00103 ] FIG. 18 shows an attachment 1800. The attachment 1800 may be used in
conjunction with a roller. The attachment 1800 may be configured such that
when the board
is placed on top of a roller, the attachment 1800 retards the movement of the
roller with
respect to the board. The attachment 1800 may comprise a relatively smooth
portion 1802
configured to be flush with the underside of the board when the attachment
1800 is disposed
in an exercise accessory receiver of the board. The attachment 1800 may
comprise a lip
1804. The lip 1804 is configured to stop a roller from traveling past the lip
1804. The
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attachment 1800 may include a handle 1806. The handle 1806 may be configured
to
facilitate orientation of the attachment 1800. The lip 1804 may be orientated
such that the lip
is substantially perpendicular to the long axis and substantially parallel to
the short axis of the
board.
[ 00104] The attachment 1800 may include a locking mechanism receiver 1808.
The
locking mechanism receiver 1808 may be configured to receive a locking
mechanism, such as
the locking mechanism 206 illustrated in FIG. 3. When the attachment 1800 is
disposed in a
modular exercise receiver in the board such that the locking mechanism engages
with the
board, the lip 1804 may be correctly positioned. Two modular exercise
accessories 1800 may
each be disposed in opposite modular exercise receivers. In such a
configuration, the board
may be positioned on top of a roller, such that the roller is positioned
substantially parallel to
the short axis of the board. A user may stand on the board and balance the
board on the roller
such that no part of the board is directly engaged with the ground. The lip
1806 on each of
the modular exercise accessories 1800 may prevent the board from being moved
relative to
the board in such a manner that would cause the roller to roll past the end of
the board.
[ 00105] FIG. 19 shows a roller 1810. The roller 1810 may be used in
conjunction with the
attachment 1800 shown in FIG. 18. The roller 1810 may comprise a roller
surface 1812. The
roller 1810 may comprise different roller surfaces 1812. The different roller
surfaces 1812
may have different properties. One of the different roller surfaces 1812 may
include
properties that make the roller surface 1812 malleable and relatively soft
compared to other
roller surfaces 1812. Such a roller surface may make balancing the board on
the roller
relatively easy compared to other roller surfaces. Another of the different
roller surfaces
1812 may include properties that make the roller surface 1812 relatively hard
compared to
other roller surfaces 1812. Such a roller surface may make balancing the board
on the roller
relatively difficult compared to other roller surfaces. Multiple different
grades of roller may
be available. When the roller 1810 is being used a center module having a
bottom surface
configured to be substantially flush with the bottom surface of the board,
such as center
module 1500 shown in FIG. 15, may be used to close the center opening of the
board.
[ 00106 ] FIG. 20 shows an attachment 2000 for disposing in exercise accessory
receivers
on either end of the board. The attachment 2000 may be used as shown in FIG.
20 to cover
the exercise accessory receivers of the board. In this way, the board may be
used with center
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modules, such as the center modules shown in FIGs. 4-14, to facilitate a user
standing on the
board.
[ 001071 The attachment 2000 may include strap mounts 2002. Strap mounts 2002
may be
configured to receive straps for footholds such as the footholds illustrated
in FIG. 16 on
modular exercise accessories 1604. In some variations, strap mounts 2002 may
be configured
to receive resistance bands. In some variations, the strap mounts 2002 may be
configured to
receive straps for handholds.
[ 001081 The attachment 2000 may include a locking mechanism receiver 2004.
The
locking mechanism receiver 2004 may be configured to receive a locking
mechanism, such as
the locking mechanism 206 illustrated in FIG. 3. When the locking mechanism is
engaged
with the board, it may cause the attachment 2000 to be properly oriented for
one or more
exercises.
[ 001091 FIG. 21 is an illustration of a modular activity board 2100 having
one or more
features consistent with the disclosed subject matter. FIG. 22 illustrates an
exploded view of
the modular activity board 2100 of FIG. 21. The modular activity board 2100
can include an
activity deck 2101. The activity deck 2101 can be made from one or more of a
polymer,
polypropylene plastic with glass filling, polypropylene plastic without glass
filling, nylon
plastic with glass filling, nylon plastic without glass filling, wood
composite, carbon fiber, or
the like. When glass filling is included glass filling may account for between
20-30% of the
material.
[ 001101 The activity deck 2102 can have a top surface 2103a and a bottom
surface 2103b.
The activity deck 2102 can be defined by a longitudinal axis 2104 and a
lateral axis 2106. In
some variations, the longitudinal axis 2104 can be longer than the latitudinal
axis 2106. The
activity deck 2102 can include a first end portion 2108 and a second end
portion 2110. The
first end portion 2108 can be opposite the second end portion 2110. The first
end portion
2108 and the second end portion 2110 can be angled relative to the activity
deck 2101 such
that the first end 2112 and the second end 2114 of the first end portion 2108
and the second
end portion 2110 rise above the activity deck 2102. The activity deck 2102 can
include
opposing side rails 2115a and 2115b.
[ 001111 The center portion of the deck 2102 may be solid and contiguous.
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[ 001121 The longitudinal axis 2104 can run through the first end portion 2108
and the
second end portion 2110. The latitudinal axis 2106 can run through an
approximate center
2117 of the deck through the opposing side rails 2115a and 2115b.
[ 001131 The modular activity board 2100 may include a first activity
accessory receiver
2116 proximate the first end portion 2108 of the activity deck 2102. In some
variations, the
modular activity board 2100 may include a second activity accessory receiver
2118
proximate the second end portion 2110 of the activity deck 2102. The first
activity accessory
receiver 2116 and the second activity accessory receiver 2118 can be defined
by a single
circular aperture 2119. The first activity receiver 2116 and the second
activity receiver 2118
can have a first locking mechanism therewith.
[ 001141 The first activity accessory receiver 2116 and the second activity
accessory
receiver 2118 can be configured to receive one or more of a set of activity
accessories. Each
activity accessory of the set of activity accessories can comprise an
attachment platform
2121. The attachment platform can be sized and configured to mate within the
circular
aperture 2119 of the first activity receiver 2116 and/or the second activity
receiver 2118. The
attachment platform 2121 can have a second locking mechanism therewith to
cooperate with
the first locking mechanism of the first activity receiver 2116 and/or the
second activity
receiver 2118 to releasably secure the attachment platform 2121 within the
single circular
aperture 2121. Each activity accessory can comprise an activity mechanism 2123
extending
from a top and/or bottom of the attachment platform to enable an activity to
be performed by
a rider of the modular activity board 2100 when the activity accessory is
secured to the deck
2102.
[ 001151 One example of an activity accessory of the set of activity
accessories can include
a set of balance ends 2120. In this example, the set of balance ends 2120 also
form the
attachment platform of the activity accessory. The set of balance ends 2120
can be disposed
within aperture of the first activity accessory receiver 2116 and the aperture
of the second
activity accessory receiver 2118. A locking mechanism, described below, can be
configured
to lock the set of balance ends 2120 in a desired non-rotating orientation
such that roll
stoppers 2122 of the set of balance ends 2120 are orientated as shown in FIGs.
21 and 22. In
this example, the activity mechanism can be a set of roll stoppers 2122. The
roll stoppers
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2122 can be configured to the deck 2102 balancing on a roller 2124 from
falling off the roller
2124.
[ 00116 ] The modular activity board 2100 in the configuration illustrated in
FIGs. 21 and
22 can be configured to facilitate balancing of the deck 2102 on the roller
2124.
[ 00117 ] FIG. 23 is an illustration of a modular activity board 2300 having
one or more
features consistent with the disclosed subject matter. FIG. 24 illustrates an
exploded view of
the modular activity board 2300 of FIG. 23. The illustrated example of an
activity accessory
of the set of activity accessories is a bounce ball activity accessory 2304.
The modular
activity board 2300 illustrated in FIGs. 23 and 24 can be configured to
facilitate bouncing or
balancing on the board by a user of the modular activity board 2300 by using
the bounce ball
activity accessory 2304. The modular activity board 2300 can be configured to
balance
and/or bounce on bounce balls 2302. A bounce ball 2302 can be formed from a
rubberized
polymer, PVC, vinyl, or the like.
[ 00118 ] The first activity accessory receiver 2116 and the second activity
accessory
receiver 2118 can be configured to receive a bounce ball activity accessory
2304. The
activity mechanism of the bounce ball activity accessory 2304 can include a
bounce ball 2302
that extends from an attachment platform. The illustrated example of the
attachment platform
is a bounce ball attachment platform 2306. The bounce ball attachment platform
2306 can be
configured to engage with the first activity accessory receiver 2116 and/or
the second activity
accessory receiver 2118 of the deck 2102. The bounce ball attachment platform
2306 can be
configured to engage with the top of the bounce ball 2302 to securely attach
the bounce ball
2302 to the deck 2102. The bounce ball attachment platform 2306 can be
configured to
receive a foot strap 2308. The foot strap 2308 can be configured to receive a
user's foot to
facilitate bouncing on the deck 2102 while still keeping the user engaged with
the deck 2102.
[ 00119 ] The modular activity board 2300 can be configured to have two bounce
balls
2302, one on either end of the deck 2102.
[ 00120 ] FIG. 25 is an illustration of a modular activity board 2500, with
the activity
accessory being a pivoting wheel accessory 2502, having one or more features
consistent
with the disclosed subject matter. FIG. 26 illustrates an exploded view of the
modular
activity board 2500 of FIG. 25. The activity mechanism of the pivoting wheel
accessory
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2502 can include a pivoting wheel 2503 and a pivot assembly 2504. The pivot
assembly
2504 can be configured to facilitate pivoting of the pivoting wheel 2503 about
an axis 2506
running perpendicular to the deck 2102.
[ 00121 ] The pivot assembly 2504 can be attached to an attachment platform
2508. The
attachment platform 2508 can be configured to engage with one of the first
activity accessory
receiver 2116 or the second activity accessory receiver 2118 of the deck 2102.
In some
variations, the attachment platform 2508 may be configured to be fixed in a
non-rotating
position with respect to the first activity accessory receiver 2116 or the
second activity
accessory receiver 2118 of the deck 2102. In other variations, the attachment
platform 2508
may be configured to be fixed in a rotating position with respect to the first
activity accessory
receiver 2116 or the second activity accessory receiver 2118 of the deck 2102.
[ 00122 ] The pivot assembly 2504 may be fixed to the attachment platform 2508
using
fasteners, a connector, or some other attachment mechanism.
[ 00123 ] FIG. 27 is an illustration of a modular activity board 2700, with
the activity
accessory, of the set of activity accessories, being a set of scooter
accessories, having one or
more features consistent with the disclosed subject matter. FIG. 28
illustrates an exploded
view of the modular activity board 2700 of FIG. 27. The set of scooter
accessories can
include a scooter handle 2702, a front scooter wheel system 2704, and a rear
scooter wheel
assembly 2706. The attachment platform of the set of scooter accessories can
include a front
scooter attachment platform 2712 and a rear scooter attachment platform 2714.
[ 00124 ] The scooter handle may include a steering engagement portion 2708.
The steering
engagement portion 2708 may be configured to engage with the scooter handle
engagement
portion 2710 of the front scooter wheel system 2704. The front scooter wheel
system 2704
may be configured to engage with the front scooter attachment platform 2712.
The front
scooter attachment platform 2712 may be configured to secure the front scooter
wheel system
2704 to the deck 2102. The front scooter attachment platform 2712 may be
configured to
secure, in a non-rotating configuration, the front scooter wheel system 2704
to the deck 2102.
The front scooter attachment platform 2712 may include the scooter handle
engagement
portion 2710. The front scooter attachment platform 2712 may be configured to
facilitate
rotation of a steering mechanism 2704 by the handle 2702.
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[ 001251 In some variations, the handle 2702 can be removed from its housing.
While the
handle 2702 is illustrated as being used with the set of scooter accessories,
the presently
described subject matter contemplates that the handle 2702 can be used with
other activity
accessories. For example, the handle 2702 can be used with the set of
skateboard accessories,
illustrated in FIGs. 29 and 30. The handle 2702 can be fixed to the attachment
platform 2906
of the modular activity board 2900. The attachment platform 2906 may include a
handle
engagement portion 2710 for engagement with the engagement portion 2708 of the
handle
2702. In some variations, the handle can facilitate steering of the skateboard
wheels. In
some variations, the handle 2702 can be a fixed handle used for stability.
[ 001261 The rear scooter wheel assembly 2706 may be configured to engage with
a rear
attachment scooter platform 2714. The rear scooter attachment platform 2714
may be
configured to secure the rear scooter wheel assembly 2706 to the deck 2102. In
some
variations, the rear scooter attachment platform 2714 may be configured to
prohibit lateral
rotation of the wheel with respect to the deck 2102. In other variations, the
rear scooter
attachment platform 2714 may be configured to facilitate lateral rotation of
the rear wheel
2706 with respect to the deck 2102. The rear scooter wheel assembly 2706 may
include a
brake 2716. The brake 2716 may be configured to allow the user to step on the
brake 2716
causing the brake 2716 to touch the rear wheel 2718.
[ 001271 In some variations, the scooter handle 2702 can be telescoping. In
some
variations, the rear scooter wheel assembly 2706 can have one or more features
of the
pivoting wheel accessory 2502. In this configuration, the modular activity
board 2700 can
facilitate drifting.
[ 001281 The wheels illustrated in the Figures can be formed from one or more
of a
polymer, polyurethane, or the like. The wheels can have various thicknesses,
hardness levels,
or the like.
[ 001291 FIG. 29 is an illustration of a modular activity board 2900, with the
activity
accessory, of the set of activity accessories, being a set of skateboard
accessories 2902,
having one or more features consistent with the disclosed subject matter. FIG.
30 illustrates
an exploded view of the modular activity board 2900 of FIG. 29. The set of
skateboard
accessories 2902 can include a skateboard truck 2904. The attachment platform
can include a
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skateboard attachment platform 2906. The truck 2904 can be fixed to the
skateboard
attachment platform 2906. The skateboard attachment platform 2906 can be
configured to
mount the set of skateboard accessories 2902 into the deck 2102 at the first
and second
activity accessory receivers 2116 and 2118. The skateboard attachment platform
2906 can be
configured to prohibit rotation of the skateboard accessory platform 2906
within the first and
second activity accessory receivers 2116 and 2118.
[ 00130 ] In some variations, the skateboard trucks 2904 can be attached to
the skateboard
attachment platform 2906 using fasteners 2908. In some variations, the
skateboard
attachment platform 2906 can be the same attachment platform as the wheel
attachment
platform 2508 illustrated in FIGs. 25 and 26, the attachment platform 2306
illustrated in
FIGs. 23 and 24, and/or the attachment platform 2120 illustrated in FIGs. 21
and 22. The
attachment platform illustrated in those figures may substantially include a
disk with a
locking mechanism, complimentary to the locking mechanism in the first
accessory receiver
and/or the second accessory receiver.
[ 00131 ] In some variations, resistance bands may be attached to the deck
2102 or any of
the activity accessories described herein attached to the deck 2102. The
resistance bands can
be held by a user of the modular activity board and facilitate keeping the
deck 2102 engaged
with the user's feet as they use the modular activity board.
[ 00132 ] FIG. 31 is an illustration of an activity accessory locking
mechanism 3100 having
one or more features consistent with the disclosed subject matter. FIG. 32
illustrates an
exploded view of the activity accessory locking mechanism 3100 illustrated in
FIG. 31.
FIG. 33 illustrates an alternative exploded view of the activity accessory
locking mechanism
3100 illustrated in FIG. 31. The locking mechanism 3100 can be configured to
secure an
attachment platform 3102 into the deck 2102 of a modular activity board. The
attachment
platform 3102 can include a locking mechanism recess 3104 configured to
receive the
locking mechanism 3100. The locking mechanism 3100 can include coupling
mechanism
3106. The coupling mechanism 3106 can include one or more resilient spring
portions 3108.
The resilient spring portions 3108 can be configured to engage with the recess
3104 in the
attachment platform 3102. The spring portions 3108 can be engaged in response
to a user
moving the coupling mechanism 3106 inward toward the center of the attachment
platform
3102.
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[ 00133 ] The coupling mechanism 3106 can include a flange 3110. The flange
3110 can be
configured to engage with a complimentary aperture in the first activity
accessory receiver
2116 and/or the second activity accessory receiver 2118. The coupling
mechanism 3106 can
be secured to the attachment platform 3102 by a coupling mechanism cover 3112.
The
coupling mechanism cover 3112 can be secured by one or more fasteners 3114.
[ 00134 ] In some variations, the accessory locking mechanism 3100 can have
one or more
features of the locking mechanism 206 illustrated in FIGs. 2 and 3.
[ 00135 ] Although a few embodiments have been described in detail above,
other
modifications are possible. Other embodiments may be within the scope of the
following
claims.
