US20030227145A1

US20030227145A1 - Flexible foot-board for jumping devices

Info

Publication number: US20030227145A1
Application number: US10/170,829
Authority: US
Inventors: Christopher Kane
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2002-06-11
Filing date: 2002-06-11
Publication date: 2003-12-11

Abstract

Embodiments of a foot-board for play, exercise, and practice of aerial recreational moves on a jumping device are described. The foot-board is preferably flexible and cushioning, but with enough firmness for the desired effect of aerial moves taking off on a board rather than just on the jumper's feet. The foot-board is preferably flexible in a plurality of directions, that is, at least in the longitudinal direction and in the transverse direction. The foot-board is attached to the user's feet by a strap system, and preferably heel rests at the back of the heels. The feet may rest in recesses in the top surface of the board to provide more sure location of the feet. The foot-board is preferably water-proof or water-resistant, for use on water trampolines. Hand-grips may be provided at one or more locations of the foot-board, which, combined with the flexibility of the board, enhance the moves and style of the practicing foot-boarder.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to sport and recreation accessories, and, more specifically, to a foot-board for use on a trampoline or other jumping device, for fun, exercise, and practice of recreational board moves. The invented foot-board connects to the user's feet, and the user jumps, flips, propels, twists, grabs, and performs other maneuvers on the trampoline with the foot-board impacting the trampoline. The foot-board helps the user simulate air-bourne moves, such as those done on a snowboard, wakeboard, skateboard, or ski, and adds interest and variety to such moves on the trampoline or similar bouncing device.

2. Related Art

Conventionally, various recreational board systems are used to support a standing individual, wherein the user's feet rest on or strapped to the top of the board or boards. Single board systems include the snowboard, skateboard, surfboard, wakeboard, and kiteboard, or single ski. In the past, use of these devices focused on travel along a sidewalk, road, or mountain, but recent use of such boards has moved toward stunt and trick uses. Skateboard parks and snowboard/ski jump free-style courses are proliferating, and young people, especially, are enjoying flips, twists, twirls, and combination aerial tricks.

Therefore, there is a great interest in boards that allow aerial moves in a challenging, fun workout for the user. There is a need for such boards that are effective for users having various amounts of talent and experience, and that provide fun without danger or discomfort. The present invention meets these and other needs.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

This invention comprises a foot-board device that is adapted for connection to a user's feet for use on a trampoline or other resilient jumping device positioned on the ground, water, or another surface. The foot-board device comprises a board that preferably is flexible, resilient, soft, has hand grips, and has foot-connectors specially-adapted to provide a secure and comfortable fit for the feet. With the invented board, which is soft and flexible and which preferably has a plurality of handles or hand-apertures, the user may perform many forward, aft and lateral board moves and grabs. The board is flexibility and is soft and/or padded, either because of the core materials from which it is made or because it is a flexible board that has been padded.

The flexibility of the board optimizes maneuverability for the foot-boarder, allowing additional tricks and movements that would not be possible, or, at least not smooth and stylish, with a rigid board. Further, the flexibility of the board allows a wide range of tricks, and also mistakes, without damage to the land or water trampoline or other jumping device. Also, preferably, the invented board is made of, or padded by, cushioning material that improves comfort and lessens shock to the feet and ankles during use, and prevents damage to the trampoline. Further, the board is preferably water-proof or covered in a water-proof casing, so that it may be used on a water trampoline.

The preferred board comprises apertures through the board at or near each end of the board, which allows the user to grasp a handle portion of the board with one or both hands. The apertures also allow air to flow through the board, lowering air resistance. The hand-grips adapt the foot-board for improved moves, control, athleticism, and enhanced style during use of the board. Apertures through the board may be a simple one or two aperture grip at each end, or a more complex multiple-aperture pattern at each end aimed mainly at customizing/decorating the board.

The preferred connection system for securing the foot-board to the feet comprises a recessed area for each foot, heel-supports upending from the board behind each heel, and broad adjustable straps for each foot. This system tends to constrain the foot from rearward movement off of the board, sideways movement out of the recess, and upward movement off of the board. This provides a secure and sure feel for the user, and keeps the foot-board properly positioned on the feet even during extreme tricks. Preferably, the heel-supports and straps do not extend through the board and are not visible on the bottom side of the board, thus, providing a smooth and continuous appearance for the bottom board surface. The preferred bottom surface includes the preferred hand-grip apertures, extending through the board near each end of the board, as the only interruptions in the continuous, flat bottom surface.

For individuals who do not have two feet or legs, have different-length legs, or have physical disabilities, the invented foot-board may be specially-adapted for increased comfort and ease of use. For example, the invented foot-board may be used, or made, to accommodate only one foot, with the connector system positioned on the board as desired for the balance and comfort of the user. Additional padding, spacers, or connector modifications may be made to adapt the foot-board for amputees, other individuals who may favor or use only one leg/foot, or otherwise physically-challenged individuals. The preferred flexible and cushioned/soft board is particularly beneficial to such users, who may not want a rigid, hard board.

Therefore, is may be seen that an object of the invented foot-board device is to provide a toy or accessory for trampolines, to enhance the fun and options for trampoline jumps. Another object is to provide a foot-board that allows practice of snowboarding aerial moves on a trampoline. Another object is to provide exercise and family entertainment, by encouraging safe play with a flexible and soft foot-board and protective gear, and, for backyard trampolines, by preferably providing screening, fencing, or other guards around the trampoline to prevent falls to the ground.

These and many other objectives, features, and attendant advantages of the invention will become apparent as the invention becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed descriptions and accompanying drawings. The detailed description and drawings illustrate some, but not the only, embodiments of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the invented foot-board apparatus being used by an individual on a land-supported, spring-based trampoline. [0013]
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 1 being used on a water trampoline. [0014]
FIG. 3 is a top view of one embodiment of the invented foot-board apparatus, showing the user's feet in dashed lines, and illustrating one embodiment of a foot connection system and hand-grasp apertures. [0015]
FIG. 4 is a front cross-sectional view of the embodiment of FIG. 3. [0016]
FIG. 5 is a front edge view of the embodiment of FIGS. 3 and 4, with the foot-board flexed upward along its longitudinal axis (concave when viewed from above), and with dashed lines illustrating how the foot-board may also flex downward (convex). [0017]
FIG. 6 is a right end view of the embodiment of FIGS. [0018] 3-5.
FIG. 7 is a right end view of the embodiment of FIGS. [0019] 3-6, with the foot-board is flexed upward (concave) transversely, and with dashed lines illustrating how the foot-board may also flex downward (convex) transversely.
FIG. 8A is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the foot-board of FIGS. [0020] 3-7, illustrating the interior flexible and cushioning material, surrounding by a water-resistant or water-proof cover.
FIG. 8B is a cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the invented foot-board, which includes an insert between plates of foam and foot straps anchored by the insert. [0021]
FIG. 8C is a cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the invented foot-board, which is an inflatable foot-board. [0022]
FIG. 9 is a bottom view of the embodiment of FIG. 3, illustrating two hand-grasp apertures. [0023]
FIG. 10 is a top view of an alternative embodiment of the invented foot-board apparatus, including foot connection systems and apertures comprising four slots through each end of the foot-board.[0024]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Referring to the Figures, there are shown several, but not the only, embodiments of the invented foot-[0025] board apparatus 10. In FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate the board in use on a ground-based, traditional trampoline 11 and on a water trampoline 11′, respectively. While not shown, other jumping, bouncing devices may be well-adapted for use with a foot-board according to the invention. For example, a children's inflatable jumping platform may be used, such as the well-known inflated, screened-in platforms that are popular at fairs and kid's parties and that typically take a fanciful shape such as a blow-up castle, dragon, clown, rocket-ship etc. FIGS. 3 and 4 illustrate placement and preferred features of the foot-receiving connectors and the hand-grips. FIGS. 5-7 illustrate the preferred flexibility features of the foot-board. FIGS. 8A-8C illustrate three of many alternative interior constructions of the foot-board. FIG. 9 shows the simple lines of the bottom of the preferred embodiment with two hand-grips. FIG. 10 illustrates an embodiment of a foot-board with alternative apertures through the ends of the board.
The preferred foot-[0026] board apparatus 10 comprises a board 12 that is elongated and has a longitudinal axis that extends between a left end 14 and a right end 14′. The board is longer (direction L) than it is wide (W), and it preferably is a generally oval or other rounded-corner shape. The middle portion 18 of the preferred board is wide enough to accept many sizes of feet, from child sizes to a typical teenager or adult user's foot, so that one board may be a “one size fits all” board. Alternatively, the invented board may be made, for example, in size small, medium, large, and extra-large to proportion the board better to individual user'.
As shown in dashed lines in FIGS. 3 and 10, the feet extend across the [0027] middle portion 18 transversely to the longitudinal axis, with the user's heel near the rear edge 22 and the toes extending to near, but not extending beyond, the front edge 24. Many dimensions may prove effective, including the preferred board 12 that is 2-4 feet long by 12-20 inches wide by 1-3 inches (more preferably 2-3 inches) thick, with oblong or rounded ends 14, 14′. A single foot-board in these ranges will work well as the one-size-fits-all board for a variety of individuals with different foot-sizes.
The [0028] board 12 is connected to the foot-boarder's feet by a connection system 30 that preferably generally centers the feet longitudinally and transversely on the board. This assists the user in balancing and predicting the affect of each impact on the trampoline. Therefore, the term “central area” and “generally centered” mean generally near the centerpoint of the board, wherein the user has his two feet straddling the centerpoint or one foot approximately at the centerpoint, but not necessarily exactly centered.
Less preferably, the invented foot-[0029] board device 10 may be designed so that the user is not centered on the board, for example, for special effects or preferences. For example, the connection system on an elongated board may be placed so that one end of an elongated board extends significantly farther on one side of the user than the other. Or, a round or other shape board may be used.
The [0030] preferred connection system 30 comprises two spaced-apart areas on the board 12 for receiving the two feet, an elastic strap system for retaining the board on the feet, and a padded or inflated heel rest system. This combination of preferred features provide an effective, yet safe and easy-to-use connection, between the feet and the board. The preferred connection system three elements (recess, heel pad, and strap) are fixed in location on the board. However, the invention may also include connection systems that are movable to suit individual preferences or sizes, for example, by eliminating the recesses and making the heel pad and straps movable to various different anchor point on the board. Also, the strap and heel rest/pad may be combined into a single shoe or binding that may be moveable to various positions on the board. Or, the invention may comprise a simpler connection system, such as a strap-only system, that may be moveable to various positions on the board. Such moveable connection systems may attach to various fasteners spaced apart on the board that move the foot positions, for example, farther apart, forward or backward, pointed outward, or one foot forward relative to the other foot.
Preferably, each of the foot-receiving areas is an [0031] elongated recess 32 that is large enough to receive a teenager or adult's foot, and, therefore, is also large enough to receive a child's foot. For the optional small or medium boards, the board, recesses, heel rest, and straps may be down-sized to more safely and comfortably fit a child.
In FIG. 3, the [0032] recesses 32 are shown as each being the shape of an outline of a foot, but other shapes would be effective as long as all or most of the foot can be received within the recess. Alternatively, a single broad recess for both feet may be used. The preferred recesses are in the range of ¼-1 inch deep, and, more preferably, about ¼-½, inch deep relative to the surrounding top surface. In the preferred board, the recesses extend transversely substantially all the way across the board.
The board is preferably somewhat resilient and flexible, which lessens stress on the feet and ankles and prevents damage to the trampoline. However, the [0033] bottom wall 34 of the recesses, and/or the entire board, are preferably firm enough that the user's actions on the board and trampoline transmit force to the outer ends, edges, and surfaces of the board and, hence, transmit force to the trampoline. Further, when the user stands on the board in the recesses 32, he may compress the board a slight amount, but does not sink deep into the board. When the user jumps with the board on the trampoline, the board transmits force between the trampoline and the user. The foot-board device may include stiffening material on or in the bottom wall 34 of the recesses to provide an even-firmer footing, and the bottom wall 34 may be textured to assist in firm footing for the bare-foot or stocking-foot user. The recesses 32 assist in preventing lateral movement of the feet, that is, toward either end of the board.
[0034] Strap 40 or other foot securement structure that extends over the top of the foot is preferably elastic, rubbery, or slightly stretchy. Elastic neoprene is especially preferred, as it is a firm, but stretchy and resilient material that is comfortable over the preferred bare-feet or stocking-feet. An especially-preferred strap system is made of two elastic neoprene or rubber straps that are tightened and closed by hook and loop fastener such as Velcro™. The elastic neoprene is stretchable in at least two directions and is especially comfortable and secure. Alternatively, the straps may be non-elastic and include buckles or fasteners to adjust the fit of the straps 40 on the feet. Optionally, the straps may be a closed-toe structure, which is more like a shoe, that covers and retains the entire front of the foot, and the term “strap” or “strap means” may include open-toed strap means and closed-toe strap means.
The [0035] straps 40 may be attached to the board in various ways, but preferably, the straps are anchored to the top of the board or in the middle of the board, but do not extend all the way through the board to the bottom surface 45 of the board. This way, there is no strap structure on the bottom of the board to catch on anything, and the bottom of the board is a smooth, generally continuous surface without strap holes and without rivets or other fasteners that might damage the trampoline. As one may see in FIG. 4, the preferred embodiment has apertures through the board near the two ends of the board, but preferably no apertures or holes extending all the way through the board in the center area of the board.
At the rear end of each [0036] recess 32 is a heel rest 50 that upends from the top surface 36 of the board 12 at or near the rear edge 22. Each heel rest 50 preferably extends up 1-5 inches, and, more preferably, 2-4 inches at its rearmost side 52, and is preferably a semi-cylindrical shape so that its inner surface 54 curves around the user's heel. As shown in FIG. 6, the preferred heel rest 50 has an upper edge which slants downward from its rearmost side 52 to its two front edges 56. This shape tends to “cup” the user's heel, which is often only covered by a sock. The heel rest 50 is preferably a soft, cushioning structure, that supports and cushions the back of the heel, with little or no chance that the heel or foot might be hurt by hitting back on the heel rest or by coming down hard on the heel rest. Preferably, therefore, the heel rest is made of the same material as the board 12, for example, high density closed cell foam, and may be covered with padding and/or a flexible waterproof casing material.
Alternatively, other heel rests may be used, such as a generally straight wall about 3-4 inches long upending from the [0037] board surface 36, but not curving around the heel. The heel rests may be units that are separate from the strap, or the heel rest may be incorporated into a single shoe unit that includes both the strap and the heel rest. Still, preferably but not necessarily, the bottom of such the “shoe” is recessed below the surrounding top surface of the board.
These and other heel rest shapes may fulfill the objectives of supporting the heel, preventing the foot from sliding rearward off the board, and properly orienting the user to the board when putting the board on his/her feet and while jumping. The heel rests help the user keep his feet properly positioned even during extreme jumps and maneuvers, and which gives a feeling of security or sureness when preparing for and executing such maneuvers. [0038]
Alternatively, connection systems may be used that are not strap-based. For example, special socks or boots may be provided to the user that include hook and loop fasteners, magnets, clips or other attachment means that connect with cooperative structure on the top surface of the board. [0039]
FIG. 4 shows the board in its “resting position” wherein no force is being applied by the user or the trampoline and the board is generally planar and flat. It is not significantly convex or concave in any direction, and preferably does not have edges that are curved upward or downward. Specifically, the left and right ends [0040] 14, 14′ are preferably not turned up or down. However, the generally flat board 12 is preferably flexible so that the board will bend and curve when significant force is applied to it by the user impacting the board against the trampoline. Thus, the extent and location of bending/curving of the board will depend on what portion hits against the trampoline, and what forces are otherwise applied by the user. For example, the user may grab the board at one or more of the hand-grips 60 or one or more of the outer edges of the board, and pull up on that area of the board, causing more curvature of the board. By pulling up on a hand-grip 60, the user may curve the end of the board up along the side of the adjacent foot, for example, and the force of doing so and the resultant shape of the board may affect the aerial moves he/she is performing, or, at least, affect the look and style of the moves.
The hand-[0041] grips 60 of FIGS. 3, 4, and 9 are formed by the presence of a generally oval aperture 62 all the way through the board 12 near each end (14, 14′). Between the aperture 60 and the end outer perimeter edge 66 is a handle portion 68 of the board. Part of a user's hand may fit through the aperture for grasping the board at handle portion 68. Typically, the user grasps the curved handle portion 68, by placing the thumb through the aperture 62 and wrapping the fingers around the end outer perimeter edge 66.
Alternatively, other shapes or types of hand-grips may be used in place of the simple oval aperture-style grip. For example, a loop or other strap may be on the [0042] top surface 36 or extending from the perimeter edge 66 near the ends 14, 14′, and sized for convenient grasping by the user, rather than having a hand-grip aperture at the ends. Or, more than one aperture may be placed near one or both ends (14, 14′) of the board. In FIG. 10, there is shown a foot-board embodiment 10′″ of a board according to the invention that has four small apertures 62′ that fan out on each end. Such multiple, small apertures do not serve very well as hand-grips because they are too small to safely allow a thumb or fingers to be inserted, but, instead, serve as a means to lessen air-resistence or to personalize and decorate the board.
The flexible board is preferably flexible enough to flex along its longitudinal axis (FIG. 5) and also along its transverse axis (FIG. 7), which lends greatly to the options for interesting tricks and artistic effects for each individual user. Preferably, but not necessarily, the board is flexible enough to bend into at least a 70 degree arc, and, more preferably, a 90-135 degree arc. With such a flexible board, the user has a great range of movement in the air and on the trampoline, and can shift and control his weight and movement, in different ways. Therefore, the invented foot-board, is a more “fluid” device than would be a rigid board. While lending some freedom of movement to the foot-boarder, it still provides connection of the two feet together, and provides an interesting platform for the feet as the user jumps and flips. Certainly, the board constrains the feet and legs more than completely free feet, because the goal of the device is to provide some constraint and a particular format of jumping with the feet generally together. The board constrains the feet to an extent that allows the user to simulate tricks done with other boards, such as a snow-board or skate-board. [0043]
The [0044] board 12 may be made of various materials, with high density, closed-cell foam being the preferred, but not the only, material. Preferred materials are of the type used in foam flotation devices or wrestling mats, specifically Wondermat™ by Popcorn International, or memory foam such as Visco Elastic Memory Foam Latex with an overlayment of padding and waterproof covering. Especially-preferred materials are closed-cell, mini-cell foams, such as the type used in kayak liners and canoe yoke padding. Various open or closed cell foams may be used, but closed cell foams are preferred, such as closed-cell polyethylene, with the appropriate densities being chosen to give the preferred firm but flexible and padded effect on the bouncing/jumping device. In the case of open-cell foam, a waterproof skin or cover is preferred to adapt the board for water use and to keep the board clean. The preferred foam layer(s) have the flexibility and softness features desired for the board, but, optionally, additional padding or cushioning layers may be added to the outside of the board.
The closed-cell foam is generally water-proof or, at least, water-resistant, so that the [0045] board device 10 may be used on a water trampoline, and so that the board 12 does not tend to pick up dirt or other material. In the case of most close-cell foams, there will not be a need for a cover, and the closed-cell foam may be colored, marked with indicia, or otherwise decorated. Optionally, as shown in FIG. 8A, the interior of the board 12 may be a plate 70 of open-celled foam or other resilient material(s,) which may be covered on all sides and edges with a flexible plastic casing 75. The casing 75 improves water-resistance, and/or provides easily-decorated surface for color, indicia, or other markings.
The preferred board, which is about 3 feet long by 14 inches wide by 3 inches thick, may accommodate many different individuals, ages 6 and up. However, to accommodate various sizes/weights of individuals and various preferences for flexibility vs. firmness, the dimensions and materials of the board may be modified to produce different “tunings” for the board, such as a relatively firm board that is slightly flexible, a medium board, and a maximum flexibility board. A medium flexibility board is illustrated by the high-density closed-cell foam plate in FIG. 8A, wherein the single closed-cell foam plate provides a desirable blend of softness and flexibility without a “floppy” effect. [0046]
A slightly-less-flexible foot-[0047] board 10′ is illustrated in FIG. 8B, wherein a plastic insert plate 80 of thin, flexible, tear-resistant plastic material is placed between two layers 82,82′ of high-density closed-cell foam, running longitudinally through most of the length of the board. The insert plate 80 may be used to anchor the foot straps inside the board, and may also be used to fine-tune the flexibility/stiffness of the board. Such an insert may be the same general shape of the board and may be inserted and anchored between the layers 82, 82′ of foam by various means. By specially selecting the flexibility of the insert plate 80, the manufacturer may fine-tune the characteristics and performance of the board. The insert is preferably smaller in length and width than the board and securely anchored inside the board, so that it does extend out from the foam layers of the board, and, hence, does not damage the trampoline or become dislodged from the board.
An example of manufacture of the foot-board follows: [0048]
1. Cut out two board plates and two heel rests from high-density foam plate. In one foam plate (the top plate), provide through-holes for straps. [0049]
2. Cut out one board shape from bendable plastic for reinforcement core insert, 2 inches smaller than board all the way around perimeter. Provide through-holes for straps. [0050]
3. Cut out fabric casing from vinyl, leather, canvas, denim, faux fur, or other casing material, for example, in two sheets that are the general shape of the board but 1.5 inches larger all the way around the perimeter to account for the thickness of the board and for seams. [0051]
4. Cut out casing fabric to cover heel rests. [0052]
5. Sew four buttonholes to receive straps, two on each piece of casing material. [0053]
6. Sew and cover heel rests. [0054]
7. Sew, glue, or otherwise attach heel rests in place. [0055]
8. Sew fabric casing for board by conventional sewing/upholstery techniques, leaving opening for placement over board. [0056]
9. Layer the flexible plastic core in between the two foam layers, with elastic neoprene or rubber and Velcro™ straps threaded through top foam and core insert. Insert layered foam and core insert into casing and thread straps through casing (straps [0057] 40′ shown with buckles in FIG. 8B). This way, the straps are anchored by looping through the touch, tear-resistant plastic plate.
10. Provide zipper, hook and loop fasteners, or other closure means for closing casing around foam. [0058]
For mass production, die cut foam construction or foam mold injection construction may be cost effective. Also, mold compression production used for flotation devices may be cost effective. Also, plastic molding techniques may be used to create an inflatable rubber, latex or vinyl casing that may be filled with air to the desired firmness. [0059]
FIG. 8C illustrates a foot-[0060] board 10″ according to the invention that is inflated with gas (preferably air) rather than being made of foam or fabric layers. This is accomplished by providing a tough outer casing 95 that has an interior space for receiving air or other gas. The foot-board 10″ is fully inflated to an extent that it serves as a firm bouncing platform on the jumping device. An inflated foot-board according to the invention may also comprise hand-holds, either formed by the foot-board “skin” being molded to have aperture-style hand-holds at each end, or by hand-hold straps or other handles being attached to the outer surface of the skin.
On the extreme end of maximum flexibility is a board made of tough, thick fabric material or a tough material on a frame. For example, a nylon material, reinforced with a plastic frame and batons, may be used, wherein such a fabric material may be similar to kite, sail or tent. Such a maximum flexibility board may be effective for some individuals, but most are expected to prefer the more substantial, thicker, and less-flexible plastic foam embodiments of the invention. On the extreme end of rigidity is a wooden or other rigid board, but such rigid boards are considered too rigid, too shocking, and too damaging to the trampoline, and are preferably not used. [0061]
Alternative shapes may be beneficial or fun for users. FIG. 11 illustrates a cross-shaped foot-[0062] board 110 that has the connection system placed between right and left ends, and also has front and back protruding portions generally in front of and in back of the user's feet. All four of the “ends” (the right, left, front, and back) preferably have hand apertures 162, for providing handle portions that the user may grab.
FIG. 12 illustrates an oval or oblate shaped foot-[0063] board 110′ according to the invention, which may have generally pointed, but not injurious, pointed end. This board has right and left end apertures 162′, which are easily grabbed by the user as they are preferably close to the edges of the board.
FIG. 13 illustrates a “finned” foot-[0064] board 110″ according to the invention. One end is generally rounded and has an aperture 162″. The other end has two “fins” that create an interesting and fun effect and look for the user.
To use the invented foot-board of the shapes shown or many other shapes, the foot-boarder preferably removes his/her shoes, climbs on the trampoline, puts on protective gear such as a helmet and mouth guard. Bare or stocking feet are placed in the “stirrups” comprising the strap system and heel rest, or other connection system. [0065]
The invented foot-board device may be used on many different jumping and play devices, as long as proper safety precautions are taken. For example, a ground-based, water-based, frame or air suspending trampoline may be used. A portable, inflated kid's jumping room (such as “KidZone”™, not shown) may be used, preferably for one child at a time. Children may even enjoy jumping of the invented device in the grass or on mats in a supervised gymnastics center. The invented device is preferably not used on hard surfaces, sand or snow, for safety reasons. Therefore, the term “trampoline” herein is not intended to limit the device to being used with a particular jumping structure, but may be used with a resilient fabric, a spring-board, inflated or other structure. Most preferably, ground trampolines, and therefore, this device, should be used with safety fences (screens or netting) or other guards that surround the trampoline and prevent a user from falling or flying off of the trampoline to the ground or other hard surface. [0066]
Although this invention has been described above with reference to particular means, materials and embodiments, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to these disclosed particulars, but extends instead to all equivalents within the scope of the following claims. [0067]

Claims

I claim:

1. A foot-board for use on a jumping device, the foot-board comprising:

a board having a top surface and a generally flat bottom surface for impacting the jumping device, the top surface having a central area for receiving a user's foot or feet; and

a connection system located at or near the central area and adapted to connect the board to a user's feet;

wherein the board is flexible.

2. A foot-board as in claim 1, wherein the board is closed-cell foam.

3. A foot-board as in claim 1, wherein the board comprises a flexible interior plate covered by a water-resistant casing.

4. A foot-board as in claim 1, wherein the connection system comprises a recess in the top surface for receiving one or both feet of a user.

5. A foot-board as in claim 4, wherein the recess is ¼-½ inches deep.

6. A foot-board as in claim 1, wherein the connection system comprises a heel rest upending from the top surface for contacting a user's heel.

7. A foot-board as in claim 6, wherein the heel rest upends 1-5 inches from the top surface

8. A foot-board as in claim 6, wherein the heel rest is soft and flexible, so that the user's heel is not injured by impacting the heel rest.

9. A foot-board as in claim 1, wherein the connection system comprises elastic straps extending from the top surface for extending across the user's foot or feet.

10. A foot-board as in claim 9, wherein the connection system comprises neoprene straps extending from the top surface for extending across the user's foot or feet.

11. A foot-board as in claim 9, wherein the straps do not extend to the bottom of the board.

12. A foot-board as in claim 9, wherein the straps do not extend to the bottom of the board and are not visible on the bottom of the board.

13. A foot-board as in claim 1, wherein the board has an outer perimeter and further comprises a hand-grip near the outer perimeter.

14. A foot-board as in claim 13, wherein the hand-grip comprises an aperture near the outer perimeter and a handle portion of the board between the aperture and the outer perimeter.

15. A foot-board as in claim 1 that is an elongated with generally rounded ends.

16. A foot-board as in claim 1 that is elongated with generally pointed ends.

17. A foot-board as in claim 1 that is elongated with one end having two longitudinal fins.

18. A foot-board as in claim 1 that is a cross-shape.

19. A foot-board as in claim 1 that is an inflatable board.

20. A foot-board for use on a jumping device, the foot-board comprising:

wherein the connection system comprises a heel rest upending from the top surface for contacting a user's heel.

21. A foot-board as in claim 20, wherein the heel rest upends 1-5 inches from the top surface.

22. A foot-board as in claim 20, wherein the connection system comprises a recess in the top surface for receiving one or both feet of a user.

23. A foot-board as in claim 22, wherein the recess is ¼-½ inches deep.

24. A foot-board as in claim 22, wherein the top surface in the recess is textured for improved footing.

25. A foot-board as in claim 20, wherein the connection system comprises neoprene elastic straps extending from the top surface for extending across the user's foot or feet.

26. A foot-board as in claim 25, wherein the straps do not extend to the bottom of the board.

27. A foot-board as in claim 25, wherein the straps do not extend to the bottom of the board and are not visible on the bottom of the board.

28. A foot-board as in claim 20, wherein the board has an outer perimeter and further comprises a hand-grip near the outer perimeter.

29. A foot-board as in claim 28, wherein the hand-grip comprises an aperture near the outer perimeter and a handle portion of the board between the aperture and the outer perimeter.

30. A foot-board as in claim 20, wherein the board is an elongated, substantially flat plastic plate with two opposing ends that do not curve significantly out of the plane of the flat plastic plate.

31. A foot-board as in claim 20, wherein the board is an inflatable board.

32. A jumping system comprising a foot-board and a jumping device, the foot-board comprising:

a flexible board having a top surface, a generally flat bottom surface adapted for impacting the jumping device, a front edge and a rear edge, the top surface having a central area for receiving a user's foot or feet; and

a connection system located at or near the central area and adapted to connect the board to a user's feet, the connection system comprising a recess in the top surface of the board for receiving a user's foot, a strap system for holding the foot to the board, and a heel rest upending from the top surface at or near the rear edge for extending up along the rear side of the user's heel.

33. A jumping system as in claim 32, wherein the flexible board comprises two layers of high density foam and a plastic plate inserted between the two layers.

34. A jumping system as in claim 32, wherein said strap system extends through from a top surface of the board through one of said two layers and high density foam and through the plastic plate.

35. A jumping system as in claim 32, wherein the jumping device is a land-based trampoline.

36. A jumping system as in claim 32, wherein the jumping device is a water-based trampoline.

37. A jumping system as in claim 32, wherein the jumping device is a land-based trampoline.