Abstract:
The Manually Self-Operated Butt-Kicking Machine is in the form of a chair with a hole in the bench. The user sits on the bench with his posterior centered over the hole. A seatbelt holds the user in place. There is a kicking mechanism located below the hole, which has a boot attached to it. When the user or operator pulls the hand-operated lever, the boot kicks the users&#39; posterior through the hole in the bench. The Butt kicker is very user friendly with the number of kicking repetitions, type of repetitions, speed of operation, amplitude or height of the kicking cycle, magnitude of the kicking force, and impact and energy of the kick all controlled by the user or operator. This invention is a new, novel, and unique machine with multiple uses, which range from amusement to fundraising and from motivation to discipline. The objectives of this invention are also many, including, but not limited to, teambuilding, self-therapy, to inspire creativity, and to be used as a model for future devices and works of art.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS  
       [0001]     Not Applicable.  
       STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT  
       [0002]     Not Applicable.  
       BACKGROUND OF INVENTION  
       [0003]     1. Field of the Invention  
         [0004]     This invention consists of a Manually Self-Operated Butt-Kicking Machine, which will be used to advance the art and expand the science of butt-kicking technologies. More specifically, this invention is a novel device with multiple uses, which include encouraging, inspiring, and facilitating discussion, participation, motivation, competition, discipline, productivity, challenge, team building, morale, amusement, and fundraising.  
         [0005]     2. Description of the Related Art  
         [0006]     Prior butt-kicking devices include a “User-Operated Amusement Apparatus For Kicking The User&#39;s Buttocks,” which was patented in 2001 by Joe W. Armstrong with U.S. Pat. No. 6,293,874. This creative apparatus includes a platform with two posts, which the user stands between. The first post has a crank positioned at a height, which requires the user to bend forward, while grasping the crank with both hands, to prominently present his buttocks toward the second post. The second post supports a rotating spindle with multiple arms, which have shoes attached to the outward most part of the multiple arms. The hand crank is connected to the rotating spindle of multiple arms with a drive train, which consist of belts, shafts, and pulleys. The user operates the self-inflicted kicking of the buttocks, and controls the speed of the rotating spindle of rotating shoe paddles with the hand crank. The device was designed specifically for amusement. The apparatus description provided by the inventor is a technical treat, and the device is very entertaining.  
         [0007]     Nightengale patented a Figure Kicking Toy on Jul. 3, 1984 with U.S. Pat. No. 4,457,100. The Figure Kicking Toy is a toy or amusement device.  
         [0008]     Earlier initiating devices, a combined lifting and spanking machine, and a trick weightlifting machine, were in the form of a weightlifting machine, which triggers a spanking paddle. The initiating devices include a platform with pull handles, which the blindfolded user bends over to lift and triggers a spring-loaded paddle. These devices have been used to surprise and initiate the user for membership into secret societies and fraternities. These devices were patented by DeMoulin in 1900—U.S. Pat. No. 654,611, in 1909—U.S. Pat. No. 920,837, and in 1910—U.S. Pat. Nos. 953,411 and 976,851.  
         [0009]     Mamaux patented useful improvements to the “Initiating Machine” in 1910—U.S. Pat. No. 966,935. Mamaux&#39;s machine had the appearance of a weight-testing machine used by lodges, clubs, and societies for the initiation of new members. The user is surprised and scared to the delight and amusement of the spectators when the user triggers the machine by lifting the gripping handles.  
         [0010]     The previously described machines were specifically designed with the use limited to membership initiation and amusement.  
       BRIEF SUMMARY OF INVENTION  
       [0011]     The Manually Self-Operated Butt-Kicking Machine is a chair with a hole in the bench with a kicking mechanism located below the hole. The kicking mechanism consists of a bar, which is attached to a rotating axis at one end, and has a boot attached to the opposite end, which kicks through the hole in the bench when the machine is operated. The machine can be manually operated when the user or operator pulls an overhead hand-operator lever, which rotates about an axis of revolution. A mechanical linkage is operatively connected to the hand-operator lever at one end, and to the kicking mechanism at the other end. When the lever is pulled down, the rotation of the lever moves the mechanical linkage, which is also connected to the kicking mechanism. When the mechanical linkage moves down, it rotates the axis of the kicking mechanism, which causes the boot to kick through the hole in the bench. The amplitude or height of the kick of the boot cycle on the kicking mechanism can be adjusted from low to high. On the low setting, the maximum height of the tip of the boot is level with the top of the bench during the kicking cycle. On the high setting, the maximum height of the tip of the boot penetrates about four inches above the top of the bench.  
         [0012]     The machine is utilized when the user, who is the recipient of the butt-kicking operation, sits down on the bench and centers his or her posterior over the hole in the bench. The machine has a seatbelt to assure safety and guarantee commitment. After fastening the seatbelt, the user or operator then activates the machine by reaching up and grabbing the hand-operator lever. The lever can be self-operated by the user or another person may operate it. As the lever is pulled down, the mechanical linkage rotates the kicking mechanism, which then rotates the boot, which in turn makes contact with the users&#39; posterior. The butt-kicking operation can be administered continuously or intermittently as determined by the user or the operator. After each kicking operation, a spring moves the lever back to its original position, so that the next round of butt kicking can proceed. The machine&#39;s operating frequency and the magnitude of the kick is determined by the speed at which the user of the operator moves the lever up and down and the force that is, applied on the lever. The boot amplitude is adjusted to satisfy the user&#39;s needs. The butt-kicking operation is continued until the desired results are achieved.  
     
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS  
       [0013]     This invention includes definite new, novel, and unique features of construction and operation, which will be more fully realized from the description, drawings, and claims made.  
         [0014]     It should be understood that the features of this incredible invention are not limited to the new, novel, and unique details of construction shown, or to the arrangement of elements given in the following description or drawings. Modifications in the construction or arrangement of the unique or precise components described or shown herein do not depart from the spirit or novelty of this invention. It is also understood that the precise wording and exact terms, which are used herein are for the purpose of description, should not be viewed as limiting.  
         [0015]      FIG. 1  is a front view of the butt-kicking machine, which shows the bench, seatback, and tubular frame support, which are in the form of a chair. There is a sign mounted at the top of the machine, which identifies it as the “World Famous”—Manually Self-Operated Butt-Kicking Machine—“For your butt-kicking enjoyment.” The user sits over the hole in the bench. A seatbelt holds the user in place. The kicking mechanism is shown with a boot attached, which projects through the hole in the bench. A sign on the seatback lists the operating instructions for the machine. The hand operator lever is shown in the upper left-hand location of this drawing. There is a mechanical linkage, which is attached between the hand operator lever and the kicking mechanism. An OSHA approved safety guard is shown between the moving parts of the hand operator lever and the mechanical linkage, and the user. There are several “Warning” and “Danger” signs, which specify and encourage safe operation of the machine.  
         [0016]      FIG. 2  is a side view, which shows the bench, seatback, and support frame. The hand-operator lever, mechanical linkage, and the kicking mechanism are shown more clearly in this view. This drawing shows a user positioned to operate the machine. The dashed phantom view shows the butt-kicker lever and kicking mechanism in the ready position. The solid view shows the machine in the kicking position.  
         [0017]      FIG. 3  is a top view, which clearly shows the bench with a hole in the center of it with the boot of the kicking mechanism shown centered in the bench hole. Other details of the manual, hand-operator lever, mechanical linkage, and the kicking mechanism are shown in more detail.  
         [0018]      FIG. 4  is a large-scale detail of the name of the machine, which is prominently displayed on the top of the machine frame.  
         [0019]      FIG. 5  is a large-scale detail of the “Operating Instructions” sign, which is mounted on the seat back.  
         [0020]      FIG. 6  is large-scale details of the “warning” and “danger” signs, which are displayed on the machine.  
         [0021]      FIG. 7  is a large-scale detail of the safety guard, which is mounted between the moving parts of the machine&#39;s mechanical linkage and the hand-operator lever, and the user. 
     
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION  
       [0022]     The Manually Self-Operated Butt-Kicking Machine invention is a new and useful machine, which has more uses and benefits than the previously patented and published butt-kicking devices. This machine is also much more user-friendly than earlier devices and is especially designed for safety.  
         [0023]     A major objective of the Manually Self-Operated Butt-Kicking Machine is to provide inspiration and enthusiasm as an advertising gimmick and mascot. The Butt-Kicker is an eye catcher, it&#39;s unique, and it draws a lot of attention. The inventor envisions a line of products, which carry the Butt-Kicker name, official seal and certificate of approval, logo, slogans, and/or jokes, which may include, but are not limited to, tee shirts, hats, clothing, “butt-kicker” shoes, power beverages, and energy foods. The opportunities are unlimited.  
         [0024]     A second major objective of the Butt-Kicker is for it to be used as a model for the development of smaller works of artwork, knickknacks, and gifts, which carry the butt-kicker name, official seal and certificate of approval, logo, slogans, and jokes, which will be used to amuse, inspire, and motivate.  
         [0025]     A third major objective of this invention is to encourage the art and science of team building in the business environment. The inventor envisions that team building will be accomplished by way of team challenges, which increase individual and team member participation, motivation, discipline, and productivity, with the ultimate purpose of accomplishing team growth and achieving the corporate goals and objectives. Accomplishment in team growth will improve company morale, strengthen company spirit, increase productivity, and therefore, boost corporate profits.  
         [0026]     A fourth major objective of the Butt-Kicker is for it to be used as a novelty device in the corporate boardroom. The inventor envisions that the Butt-Kicker will be a point of conversation, provide amusement, and stimulate jokes, which will break the ice and encourage camaraderie of visiting clients, guests, and dignitaries. The novelty of the Butt-Kicker will also encourage creativity, productivity, and break down the “stuffed-shirt” atmosphere, which prevails and predominates in many boardrooms. It is the inventors belief that every boardroom should have a Butt-Kicker to promote the positive benefits the device offers.  
         [0027]     A fifth objective of this invention is to encourage team building and crowd participation and support in the field of sporting events. The Butt-Kicker will encourage team building in the sporting arena by motivating and encouraging team members. Operating the butt-kicking device with an effigy of an opposing team member would encourage crowd participation, support, competition, and to tantalize and deflate the opposing team. Every locker room should have a Butt-Kicker to support the team.  
         [0028]     A sixth objective is to use the machine for medical therapy and wellness. Self-administered butt kicking has a therapeutic affect, which allows individuals to use the device to give themselves a good, harmless, swift kick in the pants. This type of treatment allows individuals to self-administer discipline, which helps them to overcome mistakes, and get on with their lives. An occasional kick in the pants provides the motivation many individuals require to accomplish daily routines and everyday job responsibilities.  
         [0029]     A seventh objective is to use the Butt-Kicker in the media field. Uses of the butt-kicker in the area of radio and television are phenomenal and unlimited. The Butt-Kicker will be used for entertainment and amusement. The Butt-Kicker will be especially designed to meet local television and radio station&#39;s specific entertainment and advertising needs.  
         [0030]     An eighth object of the Butt-Kicker is to use it as a device for local and national fundraisers. The inventor envisions that carnivals, auctions, and fundraisers for local schools, communities, clubs, scout troops, churches, and like organizations will use the device similar to a dunk tank; however, the Butt-Kicker does not use water and is much easier to transport and use. The Butt-Kicker will also be used in local and national election campaigns to encourage motivate, amuse, excite, and encourage campaign participation. Charging supporters who wish to boot effigies of election opponents should gain enough interest to raise significant campaign funds.  
         [0031]     A ninth object of the machine is for the unlimited use by clubs, fraternities, associations, societies, organizations, unions, and religious organizations for initiation, amusement, discipline, and penitence.  
         [0032]     The tenth objective is to use the Butt-Kicker in the institutions of education and correction. The inventor envisions every superintendent, principal, coach, guidance councilor, teacher, parole officer, and significant role model with a Butt-Kicker in his or her office to assist in accomplishing each of his or her specific and special needs.  
         [0033]     An eleventh objective is to use the Butt-Kicker on the ranch and farm. Every ranch and farm has a wood shed, and every wood shed should have a butt-kicker for family and employee motivation, discipline, and compliance.  
         [0034]     A twelfth objective is to use the Butt-Kicker in military and patriotic applications. Effigies of the enemy could be booted to raise morale among the troops. Using the butt-kicker in this fashion raises patriotism and support for the troops. The butt-kicker will be offered to the President of the United States to be used in the war against terrorism and as a morale booster for the troops.  
         [0035]     The thirteenth objective is to advance the art and expand the science of butt-kicking technologies.  
         [0036]     The Manually Self-Operated Butt-Kicking Machine substantially departs from the concepts and designs of the prior art. There are many new and diversified uses of this novel, unique, and creative machine. The phenomenal applications seem unlimited. The Butt-Kicker will significantly advance the art, expand the science, stretch and inspire the mind, and stimulate the imagination of those in the field of the butt-kicking technologies.  
         [0037]     This machine consists of a wood bench  1 , a wood seatback  2 , supported by a tubular steel frame  3 , which resemble a chair as shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 .  
         [0038]     Sign  4 , which displays the machine&#39;s title, “World Famous—Manually Self-Operated Butt-Kicking Machine—For Your Butt-Kicking Enjoyment,” is prominently displayed on a sign on the top of the machine&#39;s frame  3  as depicted in  FIG. 1 .  FIG. 4  is a large-scale view of the machine&#39;s sign  4  and title. The title sign  4  describes the machine as a device, which is self-operated and which kicks the user&#39;s U posterior P.  FIGS. 1 through 7 , illustrate how the machine is constructed and how it operates.  
         [0039]     The user U sits firmly on the bench with his or her posterior P located over the hole in the wood bench  1  as illustrated in  FIG. 2 . There is a seatbelt  15 , which guarantees commitment on the user&#39;s U part, and which safely holds the user U in place. After the seatbelt  15  is fastened, the butt-kicking operation may then commence.  
         [0040]     A sign  9  on the seatback  2  lists the operating instructions for the machine. A large-scale drawing of the sign  9  is shown in  FIG. 5 . The “OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS” are as follows: 1) Sit firmly on seat; 2) Attach seatbelt for your protection and commitment; 3) Reach up and grab hand operator  7 ; 4) Move hand operator  7  up and down as required to activate; 5) Apply butt kicking as necessary until desired result is achieved; 6) Enjoy! 
         [0041]     The kicking mechanism  5  is a weldment, which is fabricated out of steel flat-bar and is connected to the frame  3  with bolt pins  12  secured with nylock nuts at its axis of revolution  12 , and has a boot  6  attached to the other end. As the kicking mechanism  5  rotates about its axis of revolution  12 , the boot  5  at the other end rotates up, projecting through the hole in the wood bench  1 , until it makes contact with the user&#39;s U posterior P.  
         [0042]     The hand-operator lever  7  is shown in the upper left-hand location of  FIG. 1  and at the top of the drawing in  FIG. 2 . The hand-operator lever  7  is a weldment fabricated out of steel flat-bar and is connected to the frame  3  with bolt pins  13  secured with nylock nuts at its axis of revolution  13 . The lever  7  is moved up and down by the user U to operate the machine. There is a bar  17  welded to the hand-operator lever  7  located on the center of the machine, which connects to the mechanical linkage  8 . There are several settings on the hand-operator lever  7  connection bar  17 , which allows the amplitude of the kicking mechanism  5  to be adjusted to the user&#39;s U desire. The mechanical linkage bar  8  is connected to the hand-operator lever  7  with a quick connect/disconnect pin  14 , which allows rapid adjustment of the amplitude of the kicking mechanism  5 . There is a spring  16 , attached to the back of the hand-operator lever  7  at one end and connected to the frame  3 ,  FIG. 2 , at the other end, which returns the hand-operator lever  7  to its original position after each cycle of the butt-kicking operation is completed.  
         [0043]     There is a mechanical linkage  8 , which is operatively attached to the hand-operator lever  7  at one end, and is attached to the kicking mechanism  5  at the other end, which allows the user U to operate the kicking mechanism  5 .  
         [0044]     The mechanical linkage  8  is operatively connected to the hand operator lever  7  at the one end, and to the kicking mechanism  5  at the other end with a three-piece, pinned tongue and hitch connection  14 , which allows rotation of the mechanical linkage  8  at the point of connections  14 . The mechanical linkage  8  is a tubular steel member, which connects to the hand-operator lever  7  at one end with the aforementioned quick connect/disconnect pin  14 , which allows rapid adjustment of the amplitude of the kicking mechanism  5 . The mechanical linkage  8  connects to a bar  18 ,  FIG. 2 , welded to the kicking mechanism  5 , located on the center of the machine. The mechanical linkage  8  connects to the kicking mechanism bar  18  at the other end with a quick connect/disconnect pin  14 .  
         [0045]     The dashed phantom view of the hand-operator lever  7  and the kicking mechanism  5  shows the butt-kicker lever  7  and kicking mechanism  5  in the ready position. The solid view shows the hand-operator lever  7  and the kicking mechanism  5  in the kicking position.  
         [0046]     An OSHA approved safety guard  10  is located between the moving parts of the mechanical linkage  8  and the user U. A large-scale drawing of the safety guard  10  is depicted in  FIG. 6 . The safety guard  10  is fabricated with a flat-bar frame around the perimeter and an expanded metal web between the frame members. The safety guard  10  is painted safety yellow as required by OSHA.  
         [0047]     There are several “Warning” and “Danger” operating and safety signs  11   a  through  11   c , which specify and encourage the safe operation of the machine. Large-scale views of the signs  11   a  through  11   c  are shown in  FIG. 6 . Sign  11   a , “WARNING—THIS MACHINE HAS NO BRAIN—USE YOUR OWN—USE AT YOUR OWN RISK,” is located on the right-hand of the machine just below the title sign  4  and just above the safety guard  10 . Sign lib, “WARNING—DO NOT OPERATE WITHOUT MACHINE GUARD IN PLACE,” is attached to the safety guard  10  on the center of the machine just below the title sign  4 . Sign lic, “DANGER—MOVING PARTS—MAY KICK WITHOUT NOTICE,” is located on the left-hand side of the machine just below the title sign  4  and just above the safety guard  10 .  
         [0048]     The machine comes complete with a detailed Operation and Maintenance (O&amp;M) Manual  19 . The O&amp;M manual  19  includes drawings, a description of the project development, operating instructions, operating and safety signage, and a spare parts list. The spare parts list includes: 1) One red high-top canvas tennis shoe, right foot, size 10; 2) One white athletic sock with red ankle-band, Size 9-11; 3) One 1-inch diameter by 12-inch long spring (spring constant=10 lbs/inch); 4) One ½-inch diameter by 2-inch long clevis pin with R-pin keeper (for quick connect/disconnect); 5) Two ½-inch diameter by 3-inch long cadmium plated A-307 machine bolts with nylock nuts; and 6) Four ½-inch diameter cadmium plated flat washers.  
         [0049]     The user U operates the machine by reaching up and grabbing the hand-operator lever  7  with his or her right hand. As the lever  7  is pulled down, the mechanical linkage  8  rotates the kicking mechanism  5 , which then rotates the boot  6 , which in turn makes contact with the users&#39; U posterior P. The butt-kicking operation can be administered continuously or intermittently as determined by the operator or user U. The hand-operator lever  7  can be self-operated or another person can operate the lever  7 . After each kicking operation, a spring  16  moves the hand-operator lever  7  back to its original position so that the next round of the butt-kicking operation can proceed. The machine&#39;s operating frequency and the magnitude of the kick is determined by the speed at which the operator or user U moves the lever up and down and the force, which the operator or user U applies on the hand-operator lever  7 . The boot  6  amplitude is adjusted to satisfy the users U needs. The butt-kicking operation is continued until the desired results are achieved.