AU2016407744B2 - Bi-directional device and methods of its use - Google Patents

Abstract

This presently disclosed subject matter is directed to a bi-directional toy configured to be used as a trampoline and further to be used, upon turning said bi- directional toy upside down, in at least one of the following functions: a playpen-like device, a water pool, and a sphere pool. The toy comprises at least a frame with a plurality of legs configured to elevate the trampoline from a base surface; a bounce mat configured to allow usage of the toy as a trampoline; and the encircling member configured to be attached to the legs for creating a delimited area for use in at least one of the functions.

Description

BI-DIRECTIONAL DEVICE AND METHODS OF ITS USE TECHNOLOGICAL FIELD

The presently disclosed subject matter is directed to a bi-directional device

having a trampoline use and a non-trampoline use.

BACKGROUND

One example of a bi-directional device to which the presently disclosed

subject matter refers is disclosed in US 6,071,213, the device being in the form of a

trampoline, which when turned over, can be used as a swimming pool.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

The present presently disclosed subject matter is directed to a bi-directional

device that is configured and operable to change forms and to be used both as a

trampoline, and at least one of a playpen-like device, a sphere pool, a water pool, and

the like, upon attaching/detaching a handle, if connected, and turning the device

upside down as will be described in details below. For simplicity of the description,

all reference hereinbelow to a playpen further apply, mutatis mutandis, to any other

functional form of the device on the same direction except the trampoline form. The

'bi-directional device' described herein may also be referred in the text below as a 'multifunctional' trampoline and also as a 'multifunctional' or 'bi-directional' toy,

thus, these terms are used hereinbelow interchangeably and they are all meaning the

same.

The bi-directional device according to the presently disclosed subject matter

has a frame of any appropriate shape, a plurality of legs connected thereto, a bouncing

mat held by the frame and an encircling member held by the legs, at least when the

device is assembled. In particular, the frame of the trampoline can have any

polygonal shape with rounded or otherwise smoothened vertexes, such as for

example, a hexagonal, octagonal, pentagonal or square shape, or it can have a

continuously curved shape (such as e.g. circular or oval). When the trampoline frame is polygonal, the number of legs corresponds to the number of vertexes in the trampoline frame shape. When the trampoline frame shape is continuously curved, the number of legs can be any one as long as it is not less than three.

In particular, according to one aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter,

there is provided a bi-directional device, which at least when assembled comprises:

- a frame,

- a bouncing mat attached to the frame,

- a plurality of legs each having a proximal end associated with the frame and

a distal end spaced from the frame so as to enable holding the frame elevated from a

horizontal base surface for using the device as a trampoline, when the distal ends of

the legs are in contact with and are supported by the base surface; and

- an encircling member attached to each of said legs for creating a delimited

area to allow non-trampoline functioning of the device, when the device is in a

position that the frame is disposed adjacent or on the base surface and the legs

protrude upwardly therefrom with their distal ends spaced from the base surface.

In accordance with another aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, a

bi-directional device is provided, configured and operable to be used as a trampoline

and further to be used as at least one of the following non-trampoline usages: a

playpen, a water pool, and a sphere pool, the device at least when assembled

comprising

a. a frame;

b. a bouncing mat attached to the frame,

c. a plurality of legs each having a proximal end connected to the frame and

a distal end spaced from the frame so as to enable holding the frame

elevated from a horizontal base surface for using the device as a

trampoline, when the distal ends of the legs are in contact with and are

supported by the base surface; and

d. an encircling member attached to the legs for creating a delimited area to

allow non-trampoline functioning of the device, when the device is in a

position that the frame is disposed adjacent or on the base surface and the

legs protrude upwardly therefrom with their distal ends spaced from the

base surface, the encircling member being configured to collapse downwardly by its weight towards the frame when the device is used as a trampoline, to expose for viewing at least a majority of space beneath the bouncing mat and the frame.

The device can be foldable by bringing the legs into a non-operational state. For example, the legs can each constitute a part of a leg assembly configured to allow the leg, when the frame is in a horizontal state, to take a generally vertical state for performing the trampoline or non-trampoline functions of the device, and to take a generally horizontal state to allow the device to be folded into a compact form that is suitable for storing as well as shipping the device from the manufactory to the stores and further for delivering the device from the stores to the buyers houses. Alternatively, the legs can be detachable from the frame, when needed, e.g. for storage or transportation purposes.

The simple and fast folding of the device into a compact flat form is further advantageous when the toy is not being in use at home and should be stored. The ability of the device to be folded into a compact flat form allows to keep the house tidy and to make room for other purposes and articles. The transformation of the device into compact form may be carried out when the device is almost fully assembled (only a handle for the trampoline should be detached if it is connected (optional feature)) to ensure a simple, and instant re-arrangement of the device for playing with minimal engagement and efforts of the adult that prepare the device for use.

The novel multi-functional trampoline provided herein is configured and operable to be sold to the end user in an assembled form, thus the user should only set the device in a desired function position, and click the handle if he desire, when the device is used as a trampoline. The multi-functional trampoline may be designed in different dimensions to allow the buyer a choice according to the space he has available.

In some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter, the foldable trampoline may be used by adults either at home or in gyms.

The presently disclosed subject matter in further aspects thereof is directed to a number of features relating to the connection of the encircling member to the legs and/or the legs to the frame and/or the trampoline bounce mat to the frame. One of such aspects relating to the latter connection is an optional barrier separating from a central area of the bounce mat exposed to the user, all elements participating in the connection of the bounce mat to the frame so that these elements are hidden from being accessed by the user. In accordance with this aspect, the trampoline can comprise: a. a frame with legs; b. a bouncing mat having a central area and a peripheral area connected to the frame, the central and peripheral areas meeting at merging area; c. a cover, which at least in a top view of the trampoline, covers the frame with a cover frame portion and covers the peripheral area of the bouncing mat with a cover peripheral portion; and d. a barrier fixed at one end thereof to the merging area of the bouncing mat and at another end thereof to said cover at the area of merger between the central and peripheral portion thereof.

Another aspect is an optional novel hook configured and operable to provide

fast and reliable connection between the trampoline bounce mat and the solid frame of

the trampoline via a bungee cord looped onto the frame. The hook can be designed in

a manner that the approach and departure angles of the cord into and out of the hook

minimize the friction between the hook and the cord to avoid any damage that may

occur to the cord while bouncing. In particular the hook is configured for holding an

elastic rope with minimal friction force to be applied on the rope for preventing

damage that may occur to said elastic rope upon usage, said hook comprising: an

upper area having a saddle like shape for holding a rope below it, a bottom area for

stitching said hook to a fabric to be connected, and a middle area configured to

connect between the upper and bottom areas and to provide additional length between

said areas to allow convenient sawing of the hook to the fabric and further to allow a

convenient threading of the rope through it. Optionally, the approach and departure

angles of said elastic rope into said hook and out of said hook are in a range of 30

degree to 70 degree.

Other aspects of the presently disclosed subject matter are described in the

Detailed Description part of the present application and defined in the claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Examples illustrative of embodiments of the disclosure are described below with reference to Figures attached hereto. In the Figures, identical structures, elements or parts that appear in more than one Figure are generally labeled with the same numeral in all the Figures in which they appear. Dimensions of components and features shown in the Figures are generally chosen for convenience and clarity of presentation and are not necessarily shown to scale. Many of the Figures presented are in the form of schematic illustrations and, as such, certain elements may be drawn greatly simplified or not-to-scale, for illustrative clarity. The Figures are not intended to be production drawings.

The Figures (Figs.) are listed below.

Figure 1A is a schematic isometric view illustration of a bi-directional toy in accordance with one example of the presently disclosed subject matter;

Figure 1B is a schematic isometric view illustration of the bi-directional toy illustrated in Figure 1 in a trampoline form;

Figure 1C is a schematic isometric view illustration of the bi-directional toy illustrated in Figure 1 in a playpen form;

Figure 1D is a schematic isometric view illustration of a bi-directional toy similar to that illustrated in Figure 1A, in a form allowing the use of the toy as a tent;

Figures 1E and iF are schematic isometric view illustrations of a bi directional toy in accordance with another example of the presently disclosed subject matter, in its trampoline and playpen-like forms, respectively;

Figures 1G and H are schematic isometric view illustrations of a bi directional toy in accordance with a further example of the presently disclosed subject matter, in its trampoline and playpen forms, respectively.

Figures 2A and 2B are partial schematic isometric views of a solid frame of the bi-directional toy of Figures 1A to ID in an open state as used in a trampoline form of the toy illustrated in Figure 1B , and in a folded form as used e.g. when storing the toy, respectively;

Figures 3A and 3B are partial schematic illustrations of the bi-directional toy shown in Figs. 1A to ID, in a compact folded form, when folded with its encircling member and when folded without the encircling member, respectively;

Figure 4 is a schematic exploded view illustration of a leg assembly of the bi directional toy illustrated in Figures 1A-iC, in accordance with examples of the presently disclosed subject matter.

Figures 5A and 5B are schematic cross section views of the leg assembly of the bi-directional toy illustrated in Figure 4 in an open form (Figure 5A) and in a folded form (Figure 5B) in accordance with examples of the presently disclosed subject matter;

Figure 6A is a schematic illustration of a novel hook configured and operable to provide fast and reliable connection between the bounce mat and the frame of a bi directional toy, in accordance with a further example of the presently disclosed subject matter;

Figure 6B is a schematic close up view illustration demonstrating usage of the novel hook of Figure 6A within the bi-directional toy for connecting the bounce mat to the frame via a bungee rope;

Figure 6C is a schematic illustration of the approach and departure angles of the bungee rope into and out of the hook illustrated in Figure 6B;

Figure 7A is a partial side view of a frame with a detachable handle, which can be used in a bi-directional toy according to a further example of the presently disclosed subject matter;

Figure 7B is a cross section view of the attachment area of the handle to the frame and a covering connecting base;

Figure 7C is a close up view of the frame at the connection area of the handle;

Figures 8A to 8G illustrate a bi-directional toy in accordance of a further example of the presently disclosed subject matter, which is identical to that shown in Figs. 1A to 3B of PCT/IL2016/050059;

Figures 9A and 9B are partial schematic isometric views of a bi-directional toy in accordance with a further example of the presently disclosed subject matter, in its trampoline and non-trampoline forms, respectively;

Figure 10 is a partial schematic cross sectional view of a bi-directional toy in

accordance with still another example of the presently disclosed subject matter; and

Figure 11 is a schematic isometric view of a leg assembly, which can be used

in a bi-directional toy, in accordance with a further example of the presently disclosed

subject matter, with a space formed in a top area the leg being uncovered.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

In the following description, various aspects of a novel multifunctional

trampoline according to the aspects referred to above will be described. For the

purpose of explanation, specific configurations and details are set forth in order to

provide a thorough understanding of the presently disclosed subject matter.

Although various features of the disclosure may be described in the context of

a single embodiment, the features may also be provided separately or in any suitable

combination. Conversely, although the disclosure may be described herein in the

context of separate embodiments for clarity, the disclosure may also be implemented

in a single embodiment. Furthermore, it should be understood that the disclosure can

be carried out or practiced in various ways, and that the disclosure can be

implemented in embodiments other than the exemplary ones described herein below.

The descriptions, examples and materials presented in the description, as well as in

the claims, should not be construed as limiting, but rather as illustrative.

Terms for indicating relative direction or location, such as "right" and'left",

"up" and "down", "top" and "bottom", "horizontal" and "vertical", "higher" and

"lower" and the like, may also be used without limitation.

The novel multifunctional trampoline can be easily transformed to a playpen,

a baby crib, a sphere pool, and the like by releasing a handle (if connected) and

turning the trampoline upside down.

Moreover, even if not transformed as mentioned above, the multifunctional

trampoline can be configured for a further use as a tent with a low planar top, for

example, when the encircling member is transparent.

The multifunctional trampoline provided herein can be delivered to the end

user in an assembled form, thus, reducing the need to engage with assembly of the different components of the trampoline, stretching the bounce mesh properly and connecting it to the frame of the trampoline via a suitable cord, a process that may not be easy to a non-skilled person.

The multi-functionality of the trampoline of the presently disclosed subject matter allows the user not only to save money for buying single-functional products, but also saves the user precious space that is usually a limited and assist in the creation of a calm, tidy surroundings.

The multi-functional trampoline provided herein can be further configured to be folded into a compact form almost in its entirety, a feature that allows substantive costs saving when shipping the toy from the manufactory to the stores and further down the delivery chain of the product to the final destiny of the buyer's house. The folded compact form makes the toy convenient for delivery and cost saving. In addition, it may be inserted into any regular family vehicle for delivery from the store after purchase.

Furthermore, the ability to fold the toy into a compact flat form when it is not in use allows convenient storage at home, as the space occupied by the toy in the folded form is minimized, and it can easily be pushed down the bed or positioned near the wall in a manner that allows open space in the activity area at home or at the yard.

The transformation of the toy from an open form into a compact folded form may be performed when the toy is fully assembled and the only thing that is required to do from the adult handling the toy is to un-click a supporting handle if the trampoline comprises a handle, and such handle is connected. The mechanism allowing the simple transformation from a folded into an open form and vice versa will be described in details below with reference to Figs. 4-5.

Thus, in accordance with a specific embodiment of the presently disclosed subject matter, a foldable bi-directional toy is provided configured and operable to be used as a trampoline and further to be used as at least one of the following other usages: a playpen, a water pool, and a sphere pool, upon turning over said bi directional toy, the toy when assembled comprising:

a. a frame having a plurality of leg connection zones; b. a corresponding plurality of leg assemblies each associated with one leg connection zone and comprising a leg which can be brought into an non-operational state to allow folding of the toy into a compact flat form, and into an operational state, in which the legs are oriented so as to allow elevating the frame from the base surface for use the toy as a trampoline, and to serve as a basis for dressing onto it an encircling member for creating a delimited area when used as at least one of said other usages; c. a bounce mat mounted to the frame and configured to allow usage of the toy as a trampoline; and d. the encircling member configured to be attached to said legs for creating the delimited area to allow non-trampoline functioning of the toy, when the device is positioned so that the frame is disposed adjacent or on the base surface and the legs protrude upwardly therefrom, the encircling member being configured to collapse downwardly by its weight towards the frame when the device is used as a trampoline, to expose for viewing at least a majority of a space between said bouncing mat and said frame.

The foldable bi-directional toy may further comprises a detachable handle configured to be attached to said frame while using the toy as a trampoline and to be detached from the toy while using the toy in an opposite direction in any of said usages listed above.

The leg assembly can comprise at least a leg with a leg proximal end, a leg distal end and a leg body therebetween, the leg proximal end being associated with a frame engaging member connecting the leg to the frame at one of the leg connection zones, and further comprises a leg folding mechanism configured to:

- securely maintain the leg in its vertical position to allow all the legs to elevate the frame and securely hold it in such elevated state for use of the toy as a trampoline, and to protrude upwardly from the frame when the toy is positioned so that the frame is in its lowered state adjacent or on the base surface, thereby enabling at least one of said usages, and

- allow the leg to take a horizontal position, in which it extends inwardly from the frame, thereby allowing folding of the toy into a compact flat form.

The frame engaging member of each leg assembly can include a housing

attached to the frame and accommodating the leg folding mechanism.

The housing can be integrally formed with the frame. Alternatively, the

housing can be configured for attachment to the frame. For this purpose the housing

can have a top part and a bottom part assembled on the toy frame; and said leg folding

mechanism can be disposed within said housing and include a locker having a release

trigger button, said locker being to allow folding of the leg toward the center of the

toy from the vertical position relative to the toy frame into the horizontal, flat position

and a pin configured to allow movement of the leg upward and downward so as to

allow folding of said leg. The leg can have a narrow upper portion including its

proximal end, suitable for insertion of said locker into it and having dedicated holes

for insertion of said pin through it, said narrow portion of the leg together with said

locker and pin are all inserted into said housing; wherein, for transforming said toy

into a folded flat form, each of said legs is turned from its vertical position (which

can hereinafter be also referred to as an 'open' position) to it horizontal position

(which can hereinafter be also referred to as a 'folded' position).

The folding of each leg of the bi-directional toy can be obtained upon pressing

on said release trigger button of the locker, pulling of the leg out of said housing and

then folding the leg inward toward the center of said bounce mat.

In some embodiments, the bounce mat can comprise a plurality of connecting

means for connecting the bounce mat to said frame via an elastic rope. Preferably, the

connecting means are hooks configured to hold said elastic rope with minimal friction

force applied on it in order to avoid damage to said elastic rope upon usage.

In a specific embodiment, the approach and departure angles of the elastic

rope into said hook and out of said hook can be in the range of 30 degree to 70 degree

to prevent damage that may occur to the rope.

In accordance with a further specific embodiment of the presently disclosed

subject matter, there is also provided a foldable bi-directional toy configured and

operable to be used as a trampoline and further to be used as at least one of the

following usages: a playpen-like device, a water pool, and a sphere pool, upon turning

over said bi-directional toy, the toy comprising: a. a frame defining a trampoline plane and having a number n of leg connection zones; b. n leg assemblies, each assembly having a leg with a leg proximal end, a leg distal end and a leg body therebetween, the leg proximal end being associated with a frame engaging member connecting the leg to the frame at one of the leg connection zones, and further having a leg folding mechanism configured to

- securely maintain the leg in its vertical position, in which the leg

distal end is spaced from the trampoline plane and the distal ends of the

other legs to a maximal extent, to allow all the legs to elevate the frame

and securely hold it in such elevated state for use of the toy as a

trampoline, and to protrude upwardly from the frame when the toy is

turned over and the frame is in its lowered state, thereby enabling at

least one of said usages, and

- allow the leg to take a horizontal position, in which its distal end is

spaced from the trampoline plane and from the distal ends of the other

legs to a minimal extent, thereby allowing folding of the toy into a

compact flat form;

c. a bounce mat securely held by the frame so as to allow usage the mat

as a trampoline when the frame is in the elevated state; and

d. an encircling member having side walls meeting at least along a part of

their height at n corners, each corner being configured to be attached

to one of the legs for the encircling member to create a delimited area

to allow non-trampoline functioning of the device, when the device is

positioned so that the frame is disposed adjacent or on the base surface

and the legs protrude upwardly therefrom with their distal ends spaced

from the base surface, the encircling member being configured to

collapse downwardly by its weight towards said horizontal base

surface when the device is used as a trampoline, to expose a space

beneath said bouncing mat for being viewed.

The leg distal end and the leg body can be free of permanent fixation to any

other leg assembly or to the frame.

The encircling member can be made of fabric or any other flexible material,

which can be stretchable. In some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject

matter, the encircling member can comprise a number of sleeves corresponding to the

number of leg assemblies, each configured to be dressed onto a corresponding leg for

obtaining delimited fenced area within the toy.

When the encircling member is formed with side walls meeting at least along a

part of their height at corners, it can further comprise sleeves each extending along its

corresponding corner and protruding outwardly therefrom. The number of the corners

and length of the walls therebetween correspond, respectively, to the number of the

legs and spacing between the legs.

The encircling member can be configured to extend only along the periphery

of said bounce mat, leaving the remainder of its bottom side surrounded by the

encircling member to serve as the floor of said playpen and/or sphere pool.

Each corner of the encircling member can have a distal corner end, which

when the encircling member is attached to one of the legs, is fixed to the leg at a

fixation location thereof adjacent the distal end of the leg.

Each corner of the encircling member can further have a proximal corner end

provided with an embracing element to freely surround the leg so as to be freely

movable therealong between a first location taken thereby when the toy is oriented for

its non-trampoline use, in which proximal corner end is spaced to a maximal extent

from the distal corner end and a second location taken by the proximal corner end

when the toy is oriented for its trampoline use, in which the proximal corner end is

disposed close the distal corner end, i.e. is spaced from the latter to a minimal extent

to expose a space beneath said bouncing mat for being viewed.

In a specific embodiment, the encircling member can be made of a waterproof

material and configured to cover said the bottom side of the bounce mat in its entirety

so as to allow filling of water into it to be used as a water pool.

A further embodiment of the presently disclosed subject matter is directed to a

hook for holding an elastic rope with minimal friction force to be applied on the rope

for preventing damage that may occur to said elastic rope upon usage, said hook

comprising: an upper area having a saddle like shape for holding a rope below it, a

bottom area for stitching said hook to a fabric to be connected, and a middle area configured to connect between the upper and bottom areas and to provide additional length between said areas to allow convenient sawing of the hook to the fabric and further to allow a convenient threading of the rope through it.

Preferably, the approach and departure angles of said elastic rope into said hook and out of said hook are in a range of 30 degree to 70 degree.

Yet, in a further embodiment, the presently disclosed subject matter is directed to a method for folding a bi-directional toy into a flat compact form, said bi directional toy is configured to be used as at least one of a trampoline, a playpen, a sphere pool, and a water pool, said toy comprising a double safety locking mechanism operated by leg assembly having a release trigger button, said method comprising: a) pressing said release trigger button to unlock a pin for enabling movement of the leg upward and downward; b) pulling said leg out of a housing that holds the leg in when it is in an open position; and c) bending said leg from a vertical position to a horizontal position.

The bidirectional toy suitable for applying this method comprises at least the following: a) a frame having leg connection zones; b) a leg assembly connected to each leg connection zone of the frame and configured to allow folding of the toy into a compact flat form, to elevate the trampoline from the base surface for enabling jumping, and to serve as a basis for dressing onto it an encircling member for creating a delimited area when used as at least one of said usages; said leg assembly comprises at least: a housing having a top part and a bottom part assembled on the leg connection zone of the trampoline frame; a locker having a release trigger button to allow folding of a leg toward the center of the trampoline from a vertical position relative to a flat horizontal position; a pin configured to allow movement of the leg upward and downward so as to allow ejecting of the leg from said housing and folding it in a perpendicular axis; and the leg having a narrow upper portion suitable for insertion of said locker into it and having dedicated holes for insertion of said pin through it, wherein said narrow portion of the leg together with said locker and pin are all inserted into said housing; c) a bounce mat configured to allow usage of the toy as a trampoline; and d) an encircling member having a polygonal shape configured to be attached to each of said legs for creating said delimited area when used as at least one of said usages.

Yet, in a further embodiment this presently disclosed subject matter is directed

to a foldable trampoline having a fast opening/folding mechanism allowing a user to

transform the trampoline from an open form into a flat folded form and vice versa said

trampoline comprises at least:

a. a frame having with a plurality of leg connection zones spaced from

each other;

b. a leg assembly connected to each of the leg connection zones and

configured to allow folding of its leg from a vertical position into a

compact flat form; and

c. a bounce mat attached to the frame and configured to allow usage of

the toy as a trampoline when the legs thereof are in said vertical

position.

The leg assembly of the foldable trampoline can comprise at least a housing

having a top part and a bottom part assembled on the trampoline frame; a locker

having a release trigger button to allow folding of the leg toward the center of the

trampoline from a vertical position relative to a flat horizontal position; a pin

configured to allow movement of the leg upward and downward so as to allow

ejecting of the leg from said housing and folding it in a perpendicular axis; and the leg

having a narrow upper portion suitable for insertion of said locker into it and having

dedicated holes for insertion of said pin through it, wherein said narrow portion of the

leg together with said locker and pin are all inserted into said housing.

The foldable trampoline can further comprise an encircling member

configured to be attached to said legs of the trampoline when they are in the vertical

position and while the trampoline is turned over so that the frame is disposed adjacent

or on the base surface for creating a delimited area within said trampoline legs for

usage as at least one of the following usages: a playpen, a water pool, and a sphere

pool.

The foldable trampoline can comprise a double safety locking mechanism that

requires from a user for folding a leg to first press a release trigger button and then

pull the leg out of said housing and bend it toward the center of the trampoline, from a

vertical position to horizontal position. The track of the leg during folding is similar to

"L" shape track.

To re-open the leg from the folded form, the leg should be aliened to a vertical position on top of said housing and be clicked into the housing while applying force.

Following is a description, by way of non-limiting examples only and with reference to the accompanying Figures, which are diagrammatic representations of exemplary methods of carrying out the current subject matter.

Figures 1A to 3B illustrate a multifunctional trampoline 100 in accordance with one example of the presently disclosed subject matter, configured to be placed on a horizontal base surface such as base surface (not shown). Multifunctional trampoline 100 is configured and operable to serve as a trampoline, i.e. to have a trampoline state, and further to be transformed into a playpen 101, i.e. to be used in a transformed state, as will be described in details below. Multifunctional trampoline 100 is viewed in Figure 1A in a combined state in which the toy is open and positioned with the trampoline function on top, ready to be used, wherein legs supporting the trampoline frame are dressed with an encircling member 132 that functionally creates a delimited area that serves for the other functionalities of the toy (besides the trampoline) when the multifunctional trampoline is inversed.

In the specific implementation of the presently disclosed subject matter encircling member 132 comprises side walls 132', each having a height h, meeting at least along a part of their height at corners 132" formed with outer sleeves 1321 (best seen in Figure IC). Each sleeve 1321 is configured to be dressed on a leg 126 of the trampoline so as to create a fence, delimiting the area stretched around the inner side of the trampoline frame, in order to be used as either one of a playpen, a water pool, a sphere pool, and the like. The transformation from the trampoline form to the playpen form is simply obtained by un-clicking a handle 130 if the handle is connected to the trampoline (optional feature) and turning the toy over so that the frame is disposed adjacent or on the base surface and the legs protrude upwardly therefrom with their distal ends spaced from the base surface. The legs 126 can be so held in the leg assemblies that, when the toy is open, the spacing between the legs increases in the direction away from the frame, and in this case the length of the walls 132' of the encircling member 132 between the corners 132" can increase accordingly in the direction away from the trampoline frame.

At least one side wall 132' of the encircling member 132 can have an opening with a flapping door 134 as shown in Figure ID, allowing the use of the trampoline in its state as shown in this Figure, as a tent with a planar low top. It should be noted that, though the multifunctional trampoline 100 is shown in Figs. 1A and ID in a fully assembled state, i.e. with the encircling member in place, such attachment is not required when the system is to be used for its trampoline function, as shown in Figure 1B.

Multifunctional trampoline 100 comprises a bounce mat 120 connected to a frame 124 (shown in Figures 2A and 2B) and a cover 125 (shown in Figures IC, 3A and 3B) configured to hide the frame and also to hide the hooks and bungee rope that are used for connecting the mat to the frame. Cover 125 is preferably but not necessarily made of two layers, wherein the bottom layer is a made of a soft padding textile and the upper layer is a made of a colorful waterproof nylon or leatherette fabric. Thus, it may serve for both aesthetic and safety purposes to provide the toy fashionable look and also protect the child from injuries when he/she falls on frame 124. Bounce mat 120 is preferably made of a breathable fabric that allows passage of water. This character is extremely important when the trampoline is used outdoor to avoid accumulation of rain water on it.

In the specific embodiment illustrated in Figures 1A to 3B, multifunctional trampoline 100 has a hexagonal shape, i.e. its frame 124 comprises six sides 121A 121E and six leg connection zones 124' (best seen in Figures 2A and 2B). Accordingly, the trampoline 100 comprises a set of six leg assemblies 160, each comprising a leg 126 and a leg folding mechanism within a housing 128 serving as a frame engaging member. Each leg 126 has a proximal end, a distal end and a leg body, and is connected with its proximal end to the frame by the housing 128 that comprises the folding mechanism of said leg. As will be described below, the multifunctional trampoline comprises a double safety locking mechanism, to ensure that the leg will not be folded accidently.

The leg connection zones 124' are spaced from each other to a circumferential distance which is essentially greater than a circumferential extension of each leg connection zone.

It should be emphasized that the trampoline in accordance with the presently

disclosed subject matter does not necessarily need to be hexagonal but rather can have

alternative trampoline shapes, in which the frame 124 can have any number of leg

connection zones 124' and, accordingly, the trampoline can have a respective number

of leg assemblies 160, and a respective number of side walls 132' and corners 132" in

the encircling member. Non-limiting examples of trampolines having other shapes of

their frame are schematically shown in Figures 1E to 1H.

The legs may be made of various materials including without limitation,

various polymers such as polypropylene, metal, and wood. Optionally, the tip of the

leg may be covered by a none-slip pad 127 at the distal end of the leg that is proximal

to the floor/base surface that is preferable a plastic/rubber/silicon cover. None-slip pad

127 is configured to protect the leg from abrasion that may result during bouncing and

further to protect the floor from scratches that may occur during bouncing.

Optionally, trampoline 100 may further comprise a removable handle 130

configured to provide the child or adult (especially very young children and elderly

people) a holding bar to enhance its stability during jumping. The handle may be

made of any strong material capable of stably holding the body weight of the child.

Handle 130 preferably but not necessarily designed as an inverse "U" shape, having a

gripping area 1301 that optionally is covered by a soft material, and two descending

arm 1302. In the non-limiting examples illustrated in this Figure, each arm of handle

130 is connected to frame 124 via an extension of the frame shaped as a cylindrical

body (shown in Figure 7C) that is housed within a dedicated connecting body housing

133 that is assembled onto it. Handle 130 may be clicked into the cylindrical body

when the toy is used as a trampoline and be unclicked when the toy is turned over to

be used as a playpen. Detailed description of the handle, the cylindrical body, and the

connecting base housing is illustrated with reference to Figures 7A- 7C. Also shown

in this Figure is release trigger button 422 of leg assembly 160 that is configured to

allow the folding of the toy into a flat compact form.

Figure 1B is a front view illustration of the multifunctional trampoline 100 of

Figure 1A, wherein the encircling member 132 is removed from the legs. In this view

legs 126 are uncovered. Shown in this view are bounce mat 120, cover 125, leg

assemblies 160 each comprising the leg 126, the housing 128 of the legs folding mechanism with release trigger button 422, and the none-slip pad 127, the six arms of the hexagon shape 121A-121E of the multifunctional trampoline, handle 130 with gripping area 1301 and tubes area 1302, and connecting body housing 133 of the handle connecting mechanism.

Figure 1C is a top view illustration of the multifunctional trampoline of Figure 1A in a playpen form 101. In this form of the toy handle 130 is detached from the toy and the trampoline is being inversed to the opposite direction in order to make use of the concave shape of the inverted trampoline to create a playpen or sphere pool for toddlers. As seen in this view the encircling member 132 is dressed onto the trampoline legs to create a close fenced area. This is achieved by dressing the encircling member sleeves 1321, each onto a respective leg. In accordance with implementations of the presently disclosed subject matter the assembly of the encircling member 132 is performed at the manufactory so as to minimize the engagement required for preparing the toy for usage. Preferably, sleeves 1321 are predesigned in dimensions that require applying force when applying them onto the legs to ensure minimal movements. In addition, limiters 1264 at the bottom edge of legs 126 (shown in details in Figure 4) further insure that the sleeves will remain at their position. Also shown in this view are: bottom side of cover 125 with connecting buckles 1252 and connecting straps 1251 for ensuring a stable connection of the cover to the bounce mat, and bottom side of the leg's folding mechanism in the housing 128. In the example illustrated in this Figure the coverage of encircling member 132 is partial and as such, the bottom of the playpen is actually the bounce mat 120. Alternatively, encircling member 132 may be designed to provide a full coverage of the delimited area including the bottom surface in a manner that covers the entire bounce mat 120. Preferable, encircling member 132 is made of materials that are easy to clean and relatively stable to ensure that it will not be easily torn upon usage. When it is used as a sphere pool or as a playpen it is preferred to use a breathable fabric.

In further embodiments, encircling member 132 may be made of a waterproof material suitable for filling water into it, and as such may be used at this form as a water pool.

Figures 2A-2B are partial schematic isometric views of the structural components of the bi-directional toy of Figures 1A-IC without the covers and fabrics, in an open ready to use as a trampoline form (2A), and in a folded compact form ready for storage with the folded legs positioned on the top(2B).

Referring to Figure 2A, frame 124 is uncovered. The frame 124 is preferably made of a rigid material suitable for such purpose such as but not limited to a metal. The housing 128 of the leg's folding mechanism is shown from top. The housing 128 is assembled onto the frame at its rear, while on the front that is facing the surroundings a release trigger button 422 is shown. Leg 126 has a leg proximal end 126', a leg distal end 126" and a leg body therebetween, the leg proximal end being connected to the bottom side of housing 128 by a frame engaging member configured to:

- securely maintain the leg in its vertical position, in which the leg distal end is spaced from the trampoline plane and the distal ends of the other legs to a maximal extent, to allow all the legs to elevate the frame and securely hold it in such elevated state for use of the toy as a trampoline, and to protrude upwardly from the frame when the toy is turned over and the frame is in its lowered state, thereby enabling at least one of said usages, and - allow the leg to take a horizontal position, in which its distal end is spaced from the trampoline plane and from the distal ends of the other legs to a minimal extent, thereby allowing folding of the toy into a compact flat form; part of the leg is positioned in the open form within the housing as will be described in details with reference to the folding and unfolding mechanism of the trampoline legs.

In the open form view shown in this Figure, handle 130 is attached to the frame. In this specific example, the two edges of the descending tubes 1302 are inserted into connecting bodies' housings 133 each assembled on frame 124. Housings 133 are located on the frame in a manner that between them the leg assembly 160 is positioned. In other words, leg 126 together with housing 128 is positioned and protruding outward for creating an opposite momentum when jumping on the trampoline. This unique structure stabilizes the trampoline in order to avoid unintentional reversal of the toy while jumping, which is a very popular drawback of prior art trampolines and major cause for injuries of children playing with trampolines. The position of the protruding leg between the two arms of handle 130 is located as opposite support to create leaning support that prevents from the trampoline to tip over during jumping. Also shown in this view are: none-slip pad 127, release trigger button 422, and gripping area 1301.

Figure 2B illustrates the legs in a folded form while the frame is positioned in

opposite direction shown in the open form illustrated in Figure 2A. At this view,

housing 128 of the leg's folding mechanism is viewed from its bottom side, together

with release trigger button 422 and a stage 1262 (described in details with reference to

Figure 4 below). Handle 130 is not connected to frame 124, and the legs 126 are

folded toward the center of the space encompassed by frame 124. Also shown in this

view are: pad 127, and connecting base housing 133 with opening 502' for releasing

the handle (described in details with reference to Figures 7A-7C below).

Reference is now made to Figures 3A-3B that schematically illustrate the bi

directional toy of the presently disclosed subject matter in the multifunctional form as

illustrated in Figure 1A, and in a trampoline form as illustrated in Figure 1B

respectively, in a compact folded form together with the covers and fabrics.

As seen in the drawings, folding of the trampoline may be performed

together with the entire fabrics and covers of the multifunctional trampoline in order

to insure minimal engagement with assembling and disassembling of the toy before

and after storage. For folding the multifunctional trampoline it is required to detach

handle 130, if it is connected to the frame, before folding it. That is to say, that when

the toy is used as a trampoline with the handle, the handle should be detached before

folding the toy for storage, and when the toy is being used as a playpen or a pool, it is

only required to take out objects that were placed inside during playing (if there are

such objects) and fold the multifunctional toy without detaching anything. This simple

mechanism allows transforming the toy from one form to the others to take less than

one minute. In addition, the fact that the folding of the toy is performed with the entire

parts that are required for operation (besides the handle) make it easy and fast to

reopen the toy for playing and insure that no parts will be lost, as all the components

remain attached for safety in the folded form as will be described in details with

reference to Figures 5A-5B.

When the bi-directional toy is folded after serving as a playpen 101 (Figure

3A), the legs that are covered with the encircling member sleeves 1321 are folded

towered the center of the toy, together with the encircling member 132. Also shown in this view is the bottom side of cover 125. Cover 125 in the example illustrated in this

Figure is secured to the frame by Velcro straps 1251 at the leg assembly area and

further connecting one or more buckles 1252 at about the center of each arm of the

hexagon, however, other attachment mechanism of the cover may be used. The

bottom side of the housing 128 of the leg folding mechanism is shown. At this

position release trigger button 422 of the leg folding mechanism is shown facing

upward. Also shown are: pad 127, screws 432 connecting the leg assembly to the

frame, and stage 1262. At this position, connecting base 133 is also shown from the

bottom side together with openings 502' for the handle spring (shown in details in

Figures 7A-7B). At the center of the Figure, bounce mat 120 is shown.

When the encircling member 132 is removed (Figure 3B) the legs 126 are

shown and the connection of bounce mat 120 to the frame is revealed. At this view it

can be seen that the bounce mat 120 at the edge is stitched to another webbing textile

122, this webbing is used as an infrastructure for connecting means 200 that at this

specific example, are novel hooks that encircle bounce mat 120. Webbing 122

contains such connecting means (hooks) for connecting the bounce mat 120 to the

frame. Textile 122 is stitched to hooks 200. Novel hooks 200 will be described in

details below with reference to Figures 6A-6C. Each hook is configured to hold a cord

that is looped over the frame, in order to connect the bounce mat 120 in a stretched

manner to the frame to allow jumping on it. In a specific embodiment, the cord is a

bungee rope. Also shown in this view are: the leg assembly 160 with leg 126 having

stage 1262, none-slip pad 127, and housing 128 together with release trigger button

422 and screws 432, the handle connecting body housing 133 with release button

openings 502', cover 125, and straps 1251. Optionally, cover 125 comprising at its

bottom side that is shown in this view additional securing means such as connecting

buckle 1252 for connecting cover 125 to webbing 122, preferably at the center of each

arm 121A to 121E of the hexagon structure of the trampoline, for ensuring that cover

125 will remain connected and stretched over the frame at all times, unless the user

wish to remove it purposely, and Velcro straps 1251 around the leg assembly 160. It

should be clear that the connection of the bounce mat to the trampoline frame

illustrated above is only one none limiting example and the connection between them

may be performed by other means including without limitations by other hooks

available in the market, by springs or else. In addition, the bi-directional toy illustrated herein may have an integral bounce mat that is permanently attached to the frame or a separated part therefrom that may be attached to the frame by any known means available in the art.

Figure 4 is a schematic exploded view illustration of a leg assembly 160 of

the bi-directional toy of Figures 1A-IC, in accordance with examples of the presently

disclosed subject matter. Leg assembly 160 comprises a housing 128, a locker 420, a

leg 126, and optionally a none-slip pad 127.

Housing 128 comprises a top housing portion 128A and a bottom housing

portion 128B connected to each other, preferably but not necessarily by self-taping

screw 433 that is inserted via hole 4331 into a threaded boss 4332 positioned at the

bottom housing portion 128B. Additional two screws 432 are inserted via dedicated

holes 4321 at the top housing portion 128A through dedicated holes at the trampoline

frame 124 (not shown in this view) up to the bottom housing portion 128B. These

screws are used for connecting the top portion of housing 128A to the bottom portion

of housing 128B using nuts and to fasten both portions onto the trampoline frame 124.

At this area, which is the posterior portion of housing 128, each portion comprises a

niche 1244 in a half tube shape in a manner that the two niches are facing one another

to create a hole in a size suitable to contain frame 124. The top portion of housing

128A as well as the screws are covered by a top rubber cover 128C that is clicked

onto top housing portion 128A via snap fit 128C'. Rubber cover is configured to

provide both, a softer safer layer if the child accidently fell on it, and also to play an

aesthetic role by providing housing 128 a clean look as it covers the screws that are

used for the connection of the elements, and also play a role as anti-slip legs when

using the toy as sphere pool or swimming pool.

Bottom housing portion 128B further comprises an opening 4221 for release

trigger button 422 that is part of locker 420. Locker 420 is inserted into upper portion

1261 of leg 126 and both are inserted into bottom housing 128B.

Leg assembly 160 further comprises a locker 420 having a release trigger

button 422 connected to a spring 424. Spring 424 is inserted at one end into locker

420 via opening 4241 at the posterior wall of locker 420 in a vertical position to

button 422 and provide it its springiness. Locking 420 further comprises at its upper

portion windows 4261 for insertion of a pin 426.

Leg assembly 160 further comprises a leg 126 having a narrow upper portion

1261 that is structurally designed to house locker 420. As such, upper portion 1261 of

the leg comprises dedicate opening 422' for release trigger button 422, and openings

426' for pin 426.

The connection area between the upper narrow portion 1261 of leg 126 to the

tube portion 1263 of the leg is designed as a protruding stage 1262 that functionally

defines the movement range of the leg from an open to a folded form. When the leg

transforms from a close form into open form, stage 1262 defines the final stage of the

open form of leg 126. Stage 1262 is designed in a complimentary shape and size to an

opening in the bottom side of housing 128 such that in an open form of the leg, stage

1262 is elevated upward until it reaches and inserted into the opening in bottom

housing 128B. Upper portion 1261 may further comprise ribs such as 15 and 17 in

various dimensions and orientations configured to lead leg 126 to a proper position

when transformed from a folded to an open form and to stabilize it (i.e. minimize

undesired movement of the leg assembly components). The bottom end of tube

portion 1263 comprises a limiter 1264 configured for securing encircling member 132

to its proper position around the leg and preventing its release from the leg.

Preferably but not necessarily, leg assembly 160 comprises a none-slip pad

127. None-slip cover 127 is made of a narrow upper portion 1271 in a diameter

suitable to be inserted into the bottom end of leg 126 for establishing a stable

connection between them. The narrow portion 1271 ends with a flat base 1272

configured to prevent abrasion of the floor, and also to prevent grinding of the leg

itself during usage and further to improve the leg's grip to the floor.

Leg assembly 160 comprises a pin 426 that is configured to move upward and

downward and to allow the movement of the leg from an open form into a folded

form and vice versa (L shape movement of the leg). Since the locker 420 is

configured to be inserted into the upper portion 1261 of the leg and both are

configured to be inserted into housing 128, all parts contain dedicated openings for

pin 426 to thereby allow its movement. A shown in this Figure, bottom portion of the

housing 128B comprises opening 4262 for the pin, locker 420 comprises openings

4261 for the pin, and upper portion 1261 of leg 126 comprises holes 426' for the pin. The folding mechanism of the leg assembly 160 will be described with reference to

Figures 5A-5B below.

Figures 5A-5B are schematic cross section views of leg assembly 160 of

Figure 4 in an open form (Figure 5A) and in a folded form (Figure 5B) in accordance

with examples of the presently disclosed subject matter.

As mentioned above, the multifunctional trampoline comprises a double safety

locking mechanism. Thus, in order to fold leg 126, the user should first press release

trigger button 422 of locker 420, pull the leg 126 downward and fold it toward the

center of the trampoline, from a vertical position to horizontal position. The track of

the leg during folding is similar to "L" shape track. During the folding process of leg

126, upper portion 1261 is pulled down (this is enabled when pressing on button 422),

stage 1262 is being distant from the bottom opening of bottom housing 128B and pin

426 is moving downward along space 4262. At this stage leg 126 changes its axis

relative to the frame of the trampoline from a vertical position to horizontal position.

At this folded position the leg is locked by a plunger 30 (Shown in Figure 5A).

In order to re-open leg 126 from a folded form, the user should align the leg to

a vertical position on top of housing 128 and click it into housing 128 while applying

force. When the leg transforms from a close form into an open form, stage 1262

defines the final stage of the open form of leg 126, when it reaches the

complementary opening on the bottom side of housing 128B. When stage 1262 is

elevated upward reaches the opening in bottom housing 128B and inserted into it, the

opening process of leg 126 is completed.

Figure 5A is a cross section view of the leg assembly 160 when the leg is

open. In that form leg 126 is on the same axis with housing 128 (on a continuous

imaginary line). The top portion 128A of the housing is connected to bottom portion

128B by screw 433 that is covered by rubber cover 128C. At this form locker 420

together with button 422 and spring 424 are inserted into housing 128 and positioned

near the top housing 128A. Stage 1262 at this view is positioned on the bottom

opening 1238 of bottom housing 128B and closing it. The medial part of housing 128 that is assembled on frame 124 of the multifunctional trampoline is shown in this

view with screw 432 that connects housing 128 and frame 124 in a parallel position to

locker 420 and vertical position to spring 422. Below it a plunger 30 is shown in this

view that is aimed to support the leg in a folded form to remain stably folded (locked).

Also shown in this view are: niche 1244, tube portion 1263 of leg 126, limiter 1264, the narrow portion of none-slip pad 1271 inserted into the bottom end of the leg, and base 1272.

In the folded form illustrated in Figure 5B, leg 126 is laid onto housing 128 and they are no longer on the same axis as now they are perpendicular one to the

other. Connecting screws 432 and 433 are shown in a parallel position to spring 422,

and locker 420 is viewed distanced from the top housing 128A and from rubber layer

128C. Pin 426 is at the most bottom point it can range, and the top portion 1261 of leg

126 is out of housing 128. At this view, stage 1262 is positioned near the outer surface

of bottom housing 128B away from the bottom opening 1283 where locker 420 and

button 422 are now positioned. Also shown in this view are: niche 1244, tube portion

1263 of leg 126, limiter 1264, the narrow portion of none-slip pad 1271 inserted into

the bottom end of the leg, and base 1272.

Figure 6A is a schematic illustration of a novel hook 200 configured and

operable to provide fast and reliable connection of the bounce mat to the frame of the

multifunctional trampoline of the presently disclosed subject matter.

Hook 200 is composed of three main areas: an upper area 220, a bottom area

210, and a middle area 214. Upper area 220 also referred hereinafter as the: "hook's

head", has a saddle like shape, and is configured to hold a cord 300. The cord is

preferably a bungee rope that is being enwrapped over the trampoline frame and

during connection to the hook it is positioned below the saddle like area 222 of hook

200.

Bottom area 210 of hook 200, also referred hereinafter as the: "hooks base" is

a flat area and contains a stitching area 212 for stitching the hook to webbing fabric

122 encompassing bounce mat textile 120. Middle area 214 is also flat and serves as a

"neck" connecting the head of the hook and the base, providing additional length

between the hook's head and the hook's base to allow convenient sawing of the hook

to the textile on one hand, and also to allow a convenient threading of the cord

through it. Middle area is preferable but not necessarily, narrower that the base area.

This area may further be used for positioning of a logo 216 or other symbols within it.

It should be clear the novel hook described herein may be used for various different

appliances on the same concept described herein and is not limited to the usage

described herein.

Jumping on the trampoline is enabled thanks to the elasticity of the bungee

rope that stretches when the child is jumping on the bounce mat 120 and then returns

to its normal upstretched position. The bounce mat has no elasticity by itself.

The unique structure of the hook's head 220 and the positioning of the bungee

rope below the head within area 222 protect the bungee rope from damage that may

occur to it during jumping, as the unique structure of the hook minimize friction

between the hook and the rope during jumping, and insure long lifetime of the rope.

Thus, the safety and reliability of the trampoline as a toy increases relative to other

trampolines available in the market that make use of bungee rope.

In addition the unique structure of hook 200 allows simple and quick

connection of the bounce mat 120 to the trampoline frame 124 as the bungee rope 300

is first looped over the frame, and afterward the bounce mat is connected to the frame

by hooking the looped rope to the hooks stitched to the webbing fabric 122

encompassing bounce mat textile 120.

Figure 6B is a schematic close up bottom view illustration demonstrating

usage of the novel hook 200 of Figure 6A within the multifunctional trampoline of the

presently disclosed subject matter for connecting the bounce mat 120 to the

trampoline frame 124 via bungee rope 300.

When looking at the bottom side of the bounce mat 120, it can be seen that

hook 200 is stitched to webbing 122 at area 212. The middle area leads the head of the

hook 220 to be positioned beyond the bounce mat edge near the frame, while bungee

rope 300 is threaded below the saddle like area 222 of hook, 200 while it is looped over the trampoline frame 124. The positioning of the rope 300 inside area 222 allows

smooth movements of the rope when it is stretched with minimal friction with the

hook head, thus, damage to the rope that may occur during jumping is diminished.

Figure 6C is a schematic illustration of the approach and departure angles of

the bungee rope 300 into and out of hook 200. In this Figure, the longitudinal axis of

hook 200 is denoted as line A-A, while the longitudinal axis of the rope is denoted as

line B-B. When the bungee rope goes into the hook the approach angle Alfa (a)

should be in the range of 30 to 70 degrees, as out of this range the rope may be

damaged and be torn. When the bungee rope 300 goes out of the hook the departure

angle beta () should also be in the range of 30 to 70 degrees, as out of this range the rope will be damaged. The approach angle and the departure angle may be similar or differ from each other; however both should be within the above range in order to keep the rope safe.

Figures 7A-7C are schematic illustrations showing the connection of the

handle 130 to frame 124. The connection is established by insertion of the handle into

an extended cylindrical body 1247 that is welded to frame 124 via extension 1244,

wherein the cylindrical body and the connection area to frame 124 are covered by

connecting body housing 133, one for each side of the handle. Figure 7A is a partial

side view of the trampoline skeleton with the detachable handle. Figure 7B, is a cross

section view of the attachment area of the handle into cylindrical body 1247 housed

by connecting body housing 133 that is assembled on the frame of the trampoline.

Figure 7C is a close up view of the connection of cylindrical body 1247 welded to

frame 124.

Handle 130 has an inversed "U shape and comprises a holding area 1301 and

two parallel descending tubes 1302 each ends with narrower (embossing) area 1303

configured to be inserted into cylindrical body 1247 covered by connecting body

housing 133 via opening 133'. Area 1303 comprises within it a be-directional spring

500 having a central body 501 and two pressable tips 502.

Connecting body housing 133 comprises two parts: an upper housing 133A

and a bottom housing 133B, both parts are assembled onto cylindrical body 1247

extended from frame 124 and connected to each other by screws 533. The screws are

positioned on both sides of opening 133' to provide strong and stable connection

between connecting body housing 133 and frame 124. The connection area between

the two parts 133A and 133B is show in the Figure as 133AB.

In order to connect handle 130 to the trampoline frame 124, the user should

simply insert each embossing area 1303 into opening 133' and push the handle 130

downward through cylindrical body 1247 until the loaded springs reach a dedicated

openings 502' and protrude out of bottom housing 133B. The structure of embossing

area 1303 causes pressable tips 502 to be pressed inward, and when pressable tips 502

are reaching openings 502' they are automatically released and protrude out through

openings 502'and shown from bottom housing 133B. At this state the handle is

assembled and locked on frame 124.

In order to disassemble the handle from the trampoline an opposite action

should be performed. The user should first press protruding tips 502 into opening 502'

and pull the handle upward to eject embossing area 1303 from cylindrical body 1247.

The handle is out when embossing area 1303 is fully removed from cylindrical body

1247. In the specific example the insertion and ejection actions should be performed

for each side of handle 130.

In the cross section view of Figure 7B, embossing area 1303 of handle 130 is

shown while it is inserted into cylindrical body 1247 that is covered by connecting

body housing 133. Bidirectional spring 500 is positioned within it in a releases,

unloaded state as the two pressable tips 502 are un-pressed and protrude out of

openings 502'. At this state the handle is locked onto the multifunctional trampoline

frame. Also shown in this view are: the bidirectional spring body 501, handle tube

1302, and frame 124.

Figure 7C schematically illustrates frame 124 welded to cylindrical body 1247

via extension 1244. Cylindrical body comprised two openings 502' for release of

pressable tips 522 of spring 500. Cylindrical body 1247 is housed by connecting body 133 to provide this area an esthetic smooth look. Also shown in this view is leg

assembly 160.

In some embodiments, the foldable bi-directional toy of the presently

disclosed subject matter may be designed without a handle as the handle is an optional

feature only.

In a further example, the foldable toy may be used in a single function as a

foldable trampoline to be used at home and in gyms. In such embodiment the

trampoline may also be designed without a handle.

Figures 9A and 9B illustrates a bi-directional toy in accordance with a further

embodiment, in which the encircling member 132 is attached to each of the legs 126

by specific attachment means 135 configured to hold the encircling member in a

vertical state for its non-trampoline functioning of the device, and to allow the

encircling member to collapse downwardly when the toy is used as a trampoline.

More particularly, each corner 132" of the encircling member 132 has a distal

corner end, which when the encircling member 132 is attached to one of the legs 126,

is fixed to the leg at a fixation location thereof adjacent the distal end of the leg by a securing member 1351, which can be in the form of a connecting strap secured around the leg 126 with a buckle or Velcro.

Each corner 132" of the encircling member 132 further has a proximal corner

end provided with an embracing element 1352 to freely surround the leg 126 so as to

be freely movable therealong between a first location, taken thereby when the toy is

oriented for its non-trampoline use (Fig. 9B), in which proximal corner end is spaced

to a maximal extent from the distal corner end and a second location taken by the

proximal corner end when the toy is oriented for its trampoline use (Fig. 9A), in

which the proximal corner end is spaced from the distal corner end to a minimal

extent to expose a space beneath said bouncing mat 120 for being viewed. The

movement of the embracing member 1352 between its first and second locations is

obtained by its collapsing downwardly by gravity. The embracing member 1352 is of

an annular shape with an inner diameter d greater than the outer diameter DI of the leg

body adjacent its distal end.

The leg 126 can further be formed with a rib 1268 adjacent its distal end, to

facilitate the fixation of the securing unit 1351 to the leg, when the device is used for

its non-trampoline function. The outer diameter of the rib D 2 is greater than the inner

diameter of the embracing unit d. The rib 1268 can be formed integrally with the leg

126.

Figure 10 illustrates a bi-directional toy in accordance with a further

embodiment, in which the toy is provided a safety barrier 129 between the bouncing

mat 120 and the cover 125 covering the frame and elements connecting the bouncing

mat thereto. These elements can be any of those described above or any other suitable

elements. With the bouncing mat 120 having a central area 120A and a peripheral area

120B connected to the frame 124 by the connection elements, the cover 125 has a

sufficient radial extension to cover, in addition to the frame and the connection

elements, also the peripheral area 120B of the bounce mat 120. In particular, the

cover 125 covers the frame with a cover frame portion 125A and covers the peripheral

area of the bouncing mat with a cover peripheral portion 125B.

The barrier 129 has an upper edge 129B integrally connected to an innermost

edge 125C of the cover peripheral portion 125B, and a lower edge 129A integrally

connected to the bouncing mat 120 along an area 120C of merger between the central and peripheral areas 120A and 120B, all along the entire circumference of the central area 120A. The integral connection can be achieved, e.g. by sawing the barrier to the cover and the bouncing mat. The barrier 129 thus separates between the central area 120A and the peripheral area 120B of the bouncing mat and constitutes a partition, behind which all elements participating in the connection of the bouncing mat 120 to the frame 124 are hidden from being accessed by the user disposed at the central area of the bounce mat 120A. The barrier can be made of the same material as the cover or the mat, or it can be made of a different material, e.g. an elastic textile.

Figure 11 illustrates an optional design of a leg assembly 160' that can be used in a bi-directional toy according to any of the above embodiments, which differs from the leg assembly 160 shown in Figs. 4, 5A and 5B in that a space 401 is formed in the top housing portion 128A', which accommodates a wheel mounting device (not shown) for fixedly securing a wheel thereto when the bi-directional toy is to be used in its non-trampoline function, so as to provide mobility to the bi-directional toy.

The space 401 is covered by a cover 402 that is clicked onto top housing portion 128A' via snap fit 403. When the bi-directional toy is in the trampoline operation, the cover 402 provides an additional soft layer if the user accidently falls on the housing 128 of the leg assembly. When the bi-directional toy is in the non trampoline operation without wheels, the rubber provides an additional anti-slip feature to the leg assembly. The cover can be made of rubber or any other flexible material.

It should be clear that the description of the embodiments and attached Figures set forth in this specification serves only for a better understanding of the presently disclosed subject matter, without limiting its scope. It should also be clear that a person skilled in the art, after reading the present specification could make adjustments or amendments to the attached Figures and above described embodiments that would still be covered by the present presently disclosed subject matter.

Claims (14)

CLAIMS:

1. A bi-directional toy configured to be used in a first orientation as a trampoline and in a second orientation as a device with a delimited fenced area, said toy at least when assembled into its operational state, comprising: a. a frame with a bouncing mat mounted thereto so as to allow jumping on the mat when the frame is elevated over a horizontal surface in thefirst orientation of the toy, the frame having a shape other than a pentagon shape; b. a plurality of legs each having a proximal end securely connected to the frame and a distal end free of permanent connection to any other leg or frame and spaced from the frame in a vertical direction; the legs being configured for changing their orientation, when bringing the toy into its non-operational state, so that the distal end of each leg becomes spaced from the distal ends of the other legs to a distance smaller than that in the operational state of the toy, thereby allowing folding of the toy into a compact flat form; c. an encircling barrier configured to be held in place by said plurality of legs at least when the toy is in its second orientation, the encircling barrier having a plurality of leg engaging portions corresponding to the plurality of legs and configured to be dressed onto said legs from the distal ends thereof, creating thereby a closed delimited fenced area bounded by the encircling barrier; the engaging portions of the encircling barrier being configured to stay dressed on said legs when the orientation of the legs is changed to fold the toy; wherein when the toy is to be used in its first orientation, the frame is brought into its horizontal position elevated relative to the distal ends of the legs and the legs extend downwardly from the frame to contact the horizontal surface, and when the toy is to be used in its second orientation, the frame is disposed in its horizontal position lowered relative to the distal ends of the legs and the legs protrude upwardly therefrom allowing the leg engaging portions to be dressed thereon from said distal ends.

2. A bi-directional toy according to Claim 1, wherein the encircling barrier has a plurality of vertexes, and said leg engaging portions are each in the form of a sleeve extending outwardly from its corresponding vertex and configured to be dressed on one of the legs when inserted in the sleeve with the leg distal end.

3. A bi-directional toy according to any one of Claims 1 or 2, further comprising a detachable handle configured to be attached to said frame when the toy is in the first orientation, at at least two locations each disposed between areas at which the legs are connected to the frame.

4. A bi-directional toy according to any one of Claims 1 to 3, wherein said encircling member is configured to collapse downwardly by its weight towards the frame when the device is used as a trampoline, so as to expose to the exterior at least a majority of a space beneath said bouncing mat.

5. A bi-directional toy according to Claim any one of Claims 1 to 4, wherein the encircling member has a plurality of walls meeting at least along a part of their height at comers, the number of the comers and length of the walls therebetween corresponding, respectively, to the number of the legs and spacing between the legs.

6. A bi-directional toy according to Claim 5, wherein each corner of the encircling member has a distal comer end, which when the encircling member is attached to one of the legs, is fixed to the leg at a fixation location adjacent the distal end oftheleg.

7. A bi-directional toy according to Claim 6, wherein each comer further has a proximal corner end provided with an embracing element to surround the leg so as to be freely movable therealong between a first location taken thereby when the toy is oriented for its non-trampoline use, in which proximal corner end is spaced to a maximal extent from the distal comer end and a second location taken by the proximal corner end when the toy is oriented for its trampoline use, in which the proximal corner end is spaced from the distal corner end to a minimal extent, whereby the space beneath said bouncing mat is exposed to the exterior.

8. A bi-directional toy according any one of Claims 1 to 7, wherein in the operational state of the legs, the distal ends of the legs are spaced from each other to a maximal extent; and in the non-operational state, the spacing between the distal ends of the legs is reduced.

9. A bi-directional toy according to any one of Claims 1 to 8, wherein the frame comprises a plurality of leg connection zones spaced from each other, and each of the proximal end of the plurality of legs is associated with one leg connection zone of the frame.

10. A bi-directional toy according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said bouncing mat has a central area and a peripheral area connected to the frame, the central and peripheral areas meeting along merging area; the toy further comprising: a. a cover, which at least in a top view of the toy when in the first orientation, covers the frame with a cover frame portion and covers the peripheral area of the bouncing mat with a cover peripheral portion; and b. a protecting barrier integrally connected at one end thereof to the merging area of the bouncing mat and at another end thereof to said cover peripheral portion.

11. A bi-directional toy according to Claim 10, wherein the protecting barrier is oriented transversely to the bouncing mat and the cover peripheral portion and spaces between them in a vertical direction.

12. A bi-directional toy according to Claim 10 or 11, wherein the protecting barrier has an upper edge integrally connected to an innermost edge of the cover peripheral portion, and a lower edge integrally connected to the merging area of the bouncing mat.

13. A bi-directional toy according to any one of Claims 10 to 12, wherein the protecting barrier is integrally connected to the merging area of the bouncing mat along the entire circumference of the central area.

14. A bi-directional toy according to any one of Claims 10 to 13, wherein the protecting barrier separates the central area and the peripheral area of the bouncing mat and constitutes a partition preventing access to the peripheral area of the bouncing mat and the frame by a user positioned on the central area of the bounce mat.