Patent Description:
Playgrounds around the world have many different types of play apparatuses on which children can play. When children get older, they get more adventurous and play apparatuses, which have a significant height above the ground, become more and more interesting.

An example of a play apparatus is disclosed in <CIT> where a climbing structure with a hanging rope is disclosed for allowing children to climb to upper portion of the structure and to swing on. Another example of a play apparatus with platforms arranged at a distance above the ground is disclosed in <CIT>. Examples of play apparatuses with fixed vertically extending poles for climbing on are disclosed in <CIT>.

One type of apparatus, which could seem related to the invention of the current specification in hindsight is a crows nest type of play apparatus. This type of apparatus seems to have been popular many years ago in the patent literature. In a crows nest apparatus, a child would climb a flexible post into a crows nest or other basket like arrangement at the top of the flexible post. The child could then rock the flexible post back and forth, causing the crows nest to move back and forth in a swaying motion. Some such crows nests had room for more than one child. Some examples of these types of play apparatuses are disclosed in <CIT>, <CIT>, <CIT>, <CIT> and <CIT>. Another example of a similar apparatus, but with only a pole and no "crows nest" is disclosed in <CIT>.

These types of crows nest apparatus are quite complicated and require a flexible post which can have a reduced lifetime and/or a risk of breakage. In other cases, such as <CIT>, a complicated mechanism is proposed to control the motion of the pole. Furthermore, such crows nests need to be placed far from other apparatus so that the crows nest does not come into contact with other play apparatus. As such, the crows nest apparatus is an apparatus which is a standalone activity and is not a part of a greater activity.

Other structures with pivoting poles are also known in the art. For example, <CIT> discloses a pivoting platform with an upwardly extending pole which is in contact with music making elements. When the platform is pivoted, the pole is also pivoted and contacts different music making elements, thereby allowing the pole to make "music".

A first aspect of the current invention is therefore to provide a playground apparatus which is a fun apparatus for children to play on.

A second aspect of the current invention is to provide a playground apparatus which has a simple assembly with a robust construction.

A third aspect of the current invention is to provide a playground apparatus which can be integrated into a larger playground concept.

These aspects are provided at least in part by a playground apparatus according to claim <NUM>. In this way, a playground apparatus is provided whereby a child can move him or herself from a first platform assembly to a second platform assembly as part of their travel around a playground. The motion occurs at a significant height above the ground giving a great feeling of flying. As the motion is controlled between the two platforms, the safety of the apparatus is also high.

In one embodiment, the first platform assembly includes a first climbing structure to facilitate a climbing between the surface and the first platform structure, and/or the second platform assembly includes a second climbing structure to facilitate a climbing between the surface and the second platform structure.

In one embodiment, each of the first platform structure and the second platform structure is disposed at an inclination relative to the surface. In one embodiment, the first platform structure and the second platform structure form an angle of greater than <NUM>, greater than <NUM> or greater than <NUM> degrees to the surface. In one embodiment, the first platform structure and the second platform structure form an angle of less than <NUM>, less than <NUM> or less than <NUM> degrees to the surface.

In one embodiment, the first and second platform structures are arranged so that the two platforms face each other and such that the angle A between the normal vectors to the surfaces of the first and second platforms is less than <NUM> degrees, less than <NUM> degrees or less than <NUM> degrees. In one embodiment, the angle A is greater than <NUM> degrees, greater than <NUM> degrees or greater than <NUM> degrees. In one embodiment, the normal vectors to the surfaces of the first and second platforms each have a component in the upwards direction.

According to one embodiment, the playground apparatus includes a spring assembly for biasing the lever portion to a central position. In one embodiment, in the central position, the lever structure is disposed substantially perpendicularly to the surface.

Further, in one embodiment, the spring assembly includes a first spring coupled between the lever portion and one of the first platform assembly or the surface, and/or a second spring coupled between the lever portion and one of the second platform assembly or the surface.

In one embodiment, the spring assembly includes a first spring coupled to the lever portion and/or a second spring coupled to the lever portion. The first spring is a torsional spring and/or the second spring is a torsional spring.

In one embodiment, the playground apparatus includes a spring assembly for biasing the lever portion towards the second position.

In one embodiment, the damping assembly and/or the spring assembly comprises a torsional damping element and/or a torsional spring element. In one embodiment, a ROSTA type element is used to combine both damping and spring properties.

According to one embodiment, the playground apparatus further includes a damping assembly for damping a movement of the lever portion.

Further, in one embodiment, the pole structure includes a base portion attached to the surface and supporting the lever portion. The lever portion is adapted to pivot relative to the base portion.

According to one embodiment, the base portion and/or the lever portion includes an upright structure and at least one safety structure extending downwardly at an inclination relative to the upright structure.

Referring to <FIG>, an exemplary playground apparatus <NUM> is shown. The playground apparatus <NUM> includes a first platform assembly <NUM>, a second platform assembly <NUM> disposed spaced apart from the first platform assembly <NUM>, and a pole structure <NUM> disposed between the first platform assembly <NUM> and the second platform assembly <NUM>. As shown, the first platform assembly <NUM> is supported by a surface <NUM>, such as a ground surface <NUM>, and extends upwardly from the surface <NUM>. The first platform assembly <NUM> includes an upright structure <NUM> adapted to extend substantially perpendicularly from the surface <NUM> and has a first end <NUM> in contact with the surface <NUM> and a second end <NUM> disposed away from the surface <NUM>. In an embodiment, the upright structure <NUM> is a self-standing structure and may include a plurality of pillars, for example, a first pillar <NUM>, a second pillar <NUM>, and a third pillar <NUM>, disposed spaced apart from each other and arrayed circularly for enabling a positioning of the upright structure <NUM> on the surface <NUM>. The pillars <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> extends upwardly in a vertical direction from the surface <NUM>.

The upright structure <NUM> further includes a climbing structure <NUM> (also referred to as a first climbing structure <NUM>) having a plurality of panels <NUM> disposed spaced apart from each other and arrayed linearly in a vertical direction from the first end <NUM> towards the second end <NUM>. As shown, each panel <NUM> extends between the two pillars, for example, the first pillar <NUM> and the second pillar <NUM>, and may be coupled/attached to the pillars <NUM>, <NUM>. Further, in an embodiment, each panel <NUM> may include at least one opening, for example, a first opening <NUM> and a second opening <NUM> horizontally spaced from the first opening <NUM>, for providing hand and/or foot holes to facilitate a climbing up and down of a child. In an embodiment, the first opening <NUM> may include an oval shape, while the second opening <NUM> may include a circular shape. In an embodiment, a shape of the first opening <NUM> may be the same as the shape of the second opening <NUM>. Although, the first climbing structure <NUM> having the plurality of panels <NUM> is contemplated, it may be appreciated that the first climbing structure <NUM> may include a single panel. In such a case, the panel may include a plurality of openings and/or protrusions, for example climbing grips, arrayed along a height of the panel and disposed spaced from each other. The plurality of openings/protrusions may define the plurality of steps of the first climbing structure. Other climbing options could also be imagined, for example a climbing rope, a ladder with ordinary rungs, a fireman's pole, etc..

The first platform assembly <NUM> further includes a first platform structure <NUM> disposed at a vertical distance (i.e. vertically spaced) from the surface <NUM>, and is coupled to the two pillars, for example, the second pillar <NUM> and the third pillar <NUM>. As shown, the first platform structure <NUM> extends outwardly from the pillars <NUM>, <NUM> in a direction away from the upright structure <NUM> and towards the pole structure <NUM>. In an embodiment, the first platform structure <NUM> is substantially parallel to the surface <NUM>. In certain embodiments, the platform structure <NUM> may be disposed at an inclination relative to the surface <NUM> and the pillars <NUM>, <NUM>. As shown, the first platform structure <NUM> includes a first end <NUM> coupled/attached/engaged with the pillars <NUM>, <NUM> (i.e. the upright structure <NUM>), and a second end <NUM> disposed downwardly from the first end <NUM> and located distally from the upright structure <NUM>. Accordingly, an upper surface of the first platform structure <NUM> defines an acute angle 'A' of inclination relative to the pillars <NUM>, <NUM>. In an embodiment, the angle 'A' may be in a range between twenty five degrees to forty five degrees. In an implementation, the angle 'A' may be thirty degrees. An inclination of the first platform structure <NUM> relative to the surface <NUM> or the upright structure <NUM> (i.e. the pillars <NUM>, <NUM>) may discourage children from sitting on the first platform structure <NUM> and using it as a more permanent resting place.

The first platform assembly <NUM> further includes a support platform <NUM> disposed substantially parallel to the surface <NUM> and located between the pillars <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and connected to the pillars <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. Further, the support platform <NUM> is positioned between the second end <NUM> of the upright structure <NUM> and the first climbing structure <NUM> such that the support platform <NUM> and the first end <NUM> of the first platform structure <NUM> may be disposed at substantially the same height from the surface <NUM>. In this manner, children can safely and easily move between the support platform <NUM> and the first platform structure <NUM>. Further, the support platform <NUM> may include a plurality of holes <NUM> to facilitate a passage of snow or dirt therethrough, thereby preventing an accumulation of snow or dirt on the support platform <NUM>.

Additionally, or optionally, the first platform assembly <NUM> may include a gate <NUM> for allowing and/or preventing an access of the support platform <NUM> from the first climbing structure <NUM> or vice versa via an access opening <NUM> defined between the first pillar <NUM>, the second pillar <NUM>, and the support platform <NUM>. The gate <NUM> may include a first end pivotably coupled to the second pillar <NUM> and adapted to pivot about an axis <NUM> substantially parallel to the second pillar <NUM> for opening and closing the access opening <NUM>. In an embodiment, the gate <NUM> may be attached to the second pillar <NUM> via a hinge assembly <NUM>. In one embodiment, the plate <NUM> shown in the figures is fixed in position and cannot pivot out. As such, children can enter the upper portion of the first platform assembly via the opening <NUM>.

Further, in a certain implementation, the first platform assembly <NUM> may include a first rail <NUM> disposed above the support platform <NUM> and extending from the first pillar <NUM> to the third pillar <NUM>. Also, the first platform assembly <NUM> may include an access window <NUM> defined between the second pillar <NUM> and the third pillar <NUM> to facilitate a movement of the children between the first platform structure <NUM> and the support platform <NUM>. In an embodiment, a second rail <NUM> may be disposed between the second pillar <NUM> and the third pillar <NUM> covering, partly, the access window <NUM>. As shown, the second rail <NUM> may be disposed above the support platform <NUM> and may extend from the second pillar <NUM> towards the third pillar <NUM>. The second rail <NUM> provides a support to the children during transitioning from the first platform structure <NUM> to the pole structure <NUM>.

Again referring to <FIG>, the second platform assembly <NUM> is now explained. The second platform assembly <NUM> is disposed horizontally spaced from the first platform assembly <NUM> and extends upwardly from the surface <NUM>. The second platform assembly <NUM> is similar in structure, construction, assembly, and function to that of the first platform assembly <NUM>. Further, structure, construction, attachment and functions of various components, sub-assemblies, structures of the second platform assembly <NUM> are same as the structure, attachment, construction, and functions of the corresponding components, sub-assemblies, structures, etc., of the first platform assembly <NUM> unless otherwise specified. As shown, the second platform assembly <NUM> includes an upright structure <NUM>' having a first end <NUM>', a second end <NUM>', a plurality of pillars, for example, a first pillar <NUM>', a second pillar <NUM>', and a third pillar <NUM>', a climbing structure <NUM>' (also referred to as a second climbing structure <NUM>'), a plurality of panels <NUM>', each panel having a pair of openings <NUM>', <NUM>'. The second platform assembly <NUM> further includes a platform structure <NUM>' (also referred to as a second platform structure <NUM>') having a first end <NUM>' and a second end <NUM>', a support platform <NUM>' having a plurality of holes <NUM>', an access opening <NUM>', a gate <NUM>', an axis, a hinge assembly, a first rail <NUM>', a second rail <NUM>', and an access window <NUM>' facilitate a movement of the children between the second platform structure <NUM>' and the pole structure <NUM>.

Further, as shown in <FIG>, the pole structure <NUM> extends upwardly from the surface <NUM> and includes a base portion <NUM> attached/coupled to surface <NUM>, and a lever portion <NUM> pivotally engaged/attached to the base portion <NUM> and extending upwardly from the base portion <NUM>. As shown, the base portion <NUM> includes an upright structure <NUM> extending upwardly from the surface <NUM> and having a first end <NUM> attached to the surface <NUM> and a second end <NUM> coupled to the lever portion <NUM>. The upright structure <NUM> may include an elongated portion <NUM> extending substantially vertically upwardly from the surface <NUM>, and an engagement portion <NUM> extending from the elongated portion <NUM> to the second end <NUM> of the upright structure <NUM>. As shown, the engagement portion <NUM> may be adapted to partially receive the lever portion <NUM>, and may be pivotally coupled with the lever portion <NUM>. In an embodiment, the lever portion <NUM> is adapted to pivot about a pivot axis <NUM> that is substantially parallel to the surface <NUM>. In an embodiment, the lever portion <NUM> is adapted or arranged to pivot between a first position and a second position.

Further, the engagement portion <NUM> may include at least two members extending upwardly from a base member <NUM> and disposed spaced apart from each other to define at least one cavity to receive the lever portion <NUM>. In an exemplary embodiment, the engagement portion <NUM> may include four members, for example, a first member <NUM>, a second member <NUM>, a third member <NUM>, and a fourth member <NUM> defining three cavities, for example, a first cavity <NUM>, a second cavity <NUM>, and a third cavity <NUM>, therebetween to receive the lever portion <NUM>. The members <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> are arranged in such a manner that the members <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> facilitate the pivoting of the lever portion <NUM> about the pivot axis <NUM>, while substantially restricting the pivoting of the lever portion <NUM> about an axis that is parallel to the surface <NUM> and at an angle to the pivot axis <NUM>.

Additionally, or optionally, the pole structure, for example, the base portion <NUM> (as shown in <FIG>) may include at least one safety structure <NUM> to facilitate a safe landing of the children to the surface <NUM> in the case that a child falls off the pole structure. In an embodiment, the safety structure <NUM> may extend circularly around the elongated portion <NUM>. In such a case, the safety structure <NUM> may completely surround the elongated portion <NUM>. The safety structure <NUM> includes a first end <NUM> connected to the upright structure <NUM> and a second end <NUM> disposed proximate or abutting the surface <NUM>. The safety structure <NUM> is arranged in such a manner that a surface <NUM> of the safety structure <NUM> extends downwardly towards the surface <NUM> at an inclination relative to the upright structure <NUM>, thereby facilitating a sliding of the children, should they fall from the structure, to the surface <NUM>. In an embodiment, an angle of inclination between the safety structure <NUM> and the upright structure <NUM> (i.e. the elongated portion <NUM>) may be an acute angle. Although a single safety structure is contemplated, it may be appreciated that the base portion <NUM> may include more than one safety structure. In such a case, the safety structures may be circularly arrayed around the elongated portion <NUM>.

Again referring to <FIG>, the lever portion <NUM> may include first end <NUM>, a second end <NUM>, and a pole <NUM> extending from the first end <NUM> to the second end <NUM>. The lever portion is adapted to pivot between a first position and a second position about an axis <NUM> which is parallel to the surface <NUM>. An end of the pole <NUM> is pivotally coupled to the engagement portion <NUM> (i.e. the base portion <NUM>), while another end of the pole <NUM> is a free end. Further, as shown in <FIG>, the lever portion <NUM> may include two side levers, for example, a first side lever <NUM> and a second side lever <NUM>, respectively disposed on each side of the pole <NUM> such that an end of the first side lever <NUM> and an end of second side lever <NUM> are connected to the pole <NUM>, while respective other ends of the side levers <NUM>, <NUM> are received within the first cavity <NUM> and the third cavity <NUM>. Therefore, the side levers <NUM>, <NUM> extend from the engagement portion <NUM> to the pole <NUM>. In this manner, the side levers <NUM>, <NUM> provide additional rigidity and support to the lever portion <NUM>.

Further, the lever portion <NUM> includes at least one support structure <NUM> for supporting one or more children. As shown, the support structure <NUM> is a plate disposed circularly around the pole <NUM> and extending radially outwardly from the pole <NUM> and may be disposed proximate to the second end <NUM> of the lever portion <NUM>. In an embodiment, a height of the support structure <NUM> from the surface <NUM> when in the first or second position may be substantially equal to a height of the first platform structure <NUM> and/or a height of the second platform structure <NUM>' from the surface <NUM> to facilitate an easy movement of the children between the support structure <NUM> and the platform assemblies <NUM>, <NUM>. In an embodiment, the support structure <NUM> may include a plurality of holes (not shown) to prevent an accumulation of snow or dirt on a surface of the support structure <NUM>. Although a single support structure is contemplated, it may be appreciated that the lever portion <NUM> may include a plurality of support structures, for example, two support structures disposed spaced apart and arrayed circularly around the pole <NUM>. Additionally, the lever portion <NUM> may include at least one handle, for example a first handle <NUM> and a second handle <NUM>, extending outwardly from the pole <NUM> and disposed between the support structure <NUM> and the second end <NUM>. The handles <NUM>, <NUM> are adapted to be held by the children when the children are standing on the support structure <NUM>.

Further, as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the playground apparatus <NUM> may include a spring assembly <NUM> for biasing the lever portion <NUM> to a central position between the first and second positions. In the central position, the lever portion <NUM> is disposed substantially perpendicularly to the surface. While in the first position, the lever portion <NUM> is positioned at an inclination to the surface <NUM> such that the support structure <NUM> is disposed proximate to the first platform structure <NUM>. Further, in the second position, the lever portion <NUM> is positioned/arranged at an inclination to the surface <NUM> such that the support structure <NUM> is disposed proximate to the second platform structure <NUM>'. The spring assembly <NUM> may include a first spring <NUM> extending from the lever portion <NUM> towards the first platform assembly <NUM> and connected to the surface <NUM> or to the first platform assembly <NUM>, and a second spring <NUM> extending from the lever portion <NUM> towards the second platform assembly <NUM> and connected to the surface <NUM> or to the second platform assembly <NUM>. As shown schematically, in an embodiment, an end of the first spring <NUM> is connected to the lever portion <NUM> and another end of the first spring <NUM> is connected to the surface <NUM>. Similarly, as shown, an end of the second spring <NUM> is connected to the lever portion <NUM>, while another end of the second spring <NUM> is connected to the surface <NUM>. The first spring <NUM> and the second spring <NUM> together apply a force on the lever portion <NUM> (i.e. the pole <NUM>) to return the lever portion <NUM> (i.e. the pole <NUM>) towards the central position as the lever portion <NUM> pivots/moves away from the central position either towards the first position or towards the second position. In certain embodiments, one of the first spring <NUM> and the second spring <NUM> may be omitted, and in such a case, the spring assembly <NUM> may include a single spring.

In a real world application, a spring assembly which is more hidden is important to ensure that children playing do not get injured from contact with the spring assembly. <FIG> and <FIG> shows a more detailed embodiment of a combined spring and damper assembly.

Referring to <FIG>, a playground apparatus <NUM>" is shown according to an alternative embodiment of the disclosure. A structure and construction of the playground apparatus <NUM>" is similar to a structure and construction of the playground apparatus <NUM> apart from a structure, construction, and an attachment of the spring assembly. Further, the elements of the playground apparatus <NUM>" having similar constructional and structural aspects as that of the elements of the playground apparatus <NUM> will have same reference numerals.

As shown in <FIG>, the playground apparatus <NUM>" may include a spring assembly <NUM>" for biasing the lever portion <NUM> to the second position. As shown, in the second position, the lever portion <NUM> may abut the second platform structure <NUM>'. The spring assembly <NUM>" may include a biasing member <NUM>", such as a tension spring, extending from the lever portion <NUM> towards the second platform assembly <NUM> and connected to the surface <NUM> or the second platform assembly <NUM>. As shown, an end of the biasing member <NUM>" is connected to the lever portion <NUM> and another end of the biasing member <NUM>" is connected to the surface <NUM>. The biasing member <NUM>" is arranged such that the biasing member <NUM>" applies a force on the lever portion <NUM> (i.e. the pole <NUM>) to return the lever portion <NUM> (i.e. the pole <NUM>) towards the second position as the lever portion <NUM> pivots away from the second position towards the first position. In an embodiment, the playground apparatus <NUM>" may include a rope (not shown) attached to the pole <NUM> to facilitate a pulling of the pole <NUM> (i.e. the lever portion <NUM>) to the first position from the second position by the one or more children standing on the first platform structure <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, a playground apparatus <NUM>‴ is shown according to another embodiment of the disclosure. The playground apparatus <NUM>‴ may be similar in structure and construction to the structure and construction of the playground apparatus <NUM>. The difference between the playground apparatus <NUM>‴ and the playground apparatus <NUM> is that the spring assembly <NUM> is omitted from the playground apparatus <NUM> and the playground apparatus <NUM>‴ includes a damping assembly <NUM>‴ for damping a movement of the lever portion <NUM>. Further, the elements of the playground apparatus <NUM>‴ having similar constructional and structural aspects as that of the elements of the playground apparatus <NUM> will have same reference numerals.

As shown in <FIG>, the damping assembly <NUM>‴ may include a first damping member <NUM>‴ extending from the lever portion <NUM> towards the first platform assembly <NUM> and connected to the surface <NUM> or to the first platform assembly <NUM>, and a second damping member <NUM>‴ extending from the lever portion <NUM> towards the second platform assembly <NUM> and connected to the surface <NUM> or to the second platform assembly <NUM>. As shown, an end of the first damping member <NUM>‴ is connected to the lever portion <NUM> and another end of the first damping member <NUM>‴ is connected to the surface <NUM>. Similarly, an end of the second damping member <NUM>‴ is connected to the lever portion <NUM>, while another end of the second damping member <NUM>‴ is connected to the surface <NUM>. The first damping member <NUM>‴ and the second damping member <NUM>‴ together act to damp the movement of the lever portion <NUM>. In certain implementation, one of the first damping member <NUM>‴ and the second damping member <NUM>‴ may be omitted, and in such a case, the damping assembly <NUM>‴ may include a single damping member. Further, it may be appreciated that the playground apparatus <NUM>‴ may include the spring assembly <NUM> of the playground apparatus <NUM> or the spring assembly <NUM>" of the playground apparatus <NUM>" in addition to the damping assembly <NUM>'''. In this case, both a spring and a damping effect will be obtained.

In the above described embodiments, both platform assemblies were shown with climbing structures which allow a child to climb from the ground to the platform structure. However, in another embodiment, either the first or the second platform assemblies could be arranged without a real climbing structure. For example, in one embodiment (not shown), the first platform assembly comprises a climbing structure as shown, while the second platform assembly comprises a slide. In this case, the children are forced to climb up the first platform assembly, cross over to the second platform assembly via the pole and the slide down the slide. In this case, there is a more one way type of motion than in the previously described embodiments.

Referring to <FIG>, a playground apparatus <NUM> is shown according to an alternative embodiment of the disclosure. The playground apparatus <NUM> includes a first platform assembly <NUM>, a second platform assembly <NUM> disposed spaced horizontally apart from the first platform assembly <NUM>, and a pole structure <NUM> disposed between the first platform assembly <NUM> and the second platform assembly <NUM>. The first platform assembly <NUM> of the embodiment shown in <FIG> is similar in construction to the first platform assembly <NUM> of the embodiment shown in <FIG> except that some of the elements or components of the first platform assembly <NUM> may be omitted from the first platform assembly <NUM>. For example, the climbing structure <NUM> (also referred to as a second climbing structure <NUM>), the plurality of panels <NUM>, each panel having the pair of openings <NUM>, <NUM>, the gate <NUM>, the hinge assembly, the first rail <NUM> may be omitted in the first platform assembly <NUM>. Further, as shown, the first platform assembly <NUM> may include an upright structure <NUM> having a first end <NUM>, a second end <NUM>, a plurality of pillars, for example, a first pillar <NUM>, a second pillar <NUM>, and a third pillar <NUM>. The first platform assembly <NUM> further includes a platform structure <NUM> (also referred to as a first platform structure <NUM>) having a first end <NUM> and a second end <NUM>, a support platform <NUM> having a plurality of holes <NUM>, an access opening <NUM>, a second rail <NUM>, and an access window <NUM> facilitate a movement of the children between the first platform structure <NUM> and the pole structure <NUM>.

Further, the second platform assembly <NUM> is disposed horizontally spaced from the first platform assembly <NUM> and extends upwardly from the surface <NUM>. The second platform assembly <NUM> is similar in structure, construction, assembly, and function to that of the first platform assembly <NUM>. Further, structure, construction, attachment and functions of various components, sub-assemblies, structures of the second platform assembly <NUM> are the same as the structure, attachment, construction, and functions of the corresponding components, sub-assemblies, structures, etc., of the first platform assembly <NUM> unless otherwise specified. As shown, the second platform assembly <NUM> may include an upright structure <NUM>' having a first end <NUM>', a second end <NUM>', a plurality of pillars, for example, a first pillar <NUM>', a second pillar <NUM>', and a third pillar <NUM>'. The second platform assembly <NUM> further includes a platform structure <NUM>' (also referred to as a second platform structure <NUM>') having a first end <NUM>' and a second end <NUM>', a support platform <NUM>' having a plurality of holes <NUM>', an access opening <NUM>', a second rail <NUM>', and an access window <NUM>' to facilitate a movement of the children between the second platform structure <NUM>' and the pole structure <NUM>'.

Further, the pole structure <NUM> extends upwardly from the surface <NUM> and includes a base portion <NUM> attached/coupled to surface <NUM>, and a lever portion <NUM> pivotally engaged/attached to the base portion <NUM> and extending upwardly from the base portion <NUM>. In an embodiment, the lever portion <NUM> is adapted to pivot about a pivot axis <NUM> that is substantially parallel to the surface <NUM>. In an embodiment, the lever portion <NUM> is adapted or arranged to pivot between a first position and a second position.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, the lever portion <NUM> may include first end <NUM>, a second end <NUM>, a base <NUM> disposed at the first end <NUM> and extending substantially horizontally and parallel to the surface <NUM>, and an upright structure <NUM> extending substantially perpendicularly and upwardly from the base <NUM>. The upright structure <NUM> may include a pole <NUM> extending from the base <NUM> and two side levers, for example, a first side lever <NUM> and a second side lever <NUM>, respectively disposed on each side of the pole <NUM> such that an end of the first side lever <NUM> and an end of the second side lever <NUM> are connected to the pole <NUM>, while respective other ends of the side levers <NUM>, <NUM> are attached to the base <NUM>. Therefore, the side levers <NUM>, <NUM> extend from the base <NUM> to the pole <NUM>. In this manner, the side levers <NUM>, <NUM> provide additional rigidity and support to the lever portion <NUM>.

Further, the lever portion <NUM> includes at least one support structure <NUM> for supporting one or more children. As shown, the support structure <NUM> is a plate disposed circularly around the pole <NUM> and extending radially outwardly from the pole <NUM> and may be disposed proximate to the second end <NUM> of the lever portion <NUM>. In an embodiment, a height of the support structure <NUM> from the surface <NUM> when in the first or second position may be substantially equal to a height of the first platform structure <NUM> and/or a height of the second platform structure <NUM>' from the surface <NUM> to facilitate an easy movement of the children between the support structure <NUM> and the platform assemblies <NUM>, <NUM>. In an embodiment, the support structure <NUM> may include a plurality of holes (not shown) to prevent an accumulation of snow or dirt on a surface of the support structure <NUM>. Although a single support structure is contemplated, it may be appreciated that the lever portion <NUM> may include a plurality of support structures, for example, two support structures disposed spaced apart and arrayed circularly around the pole <NUM>. Additionally, the lever portion <NUM> may include at least one handle, for example a first handle <NUM> and a second handle <NUM> extending outwardly from the pole <NUM> and disposed between the support structure <NUM> and the second end <NUM>. The handles <NUM>, <NUM> are adapted to be held by the children when the children are standing on the support structure <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the lever portion <NUM> may include a plurality of extension members extending downwardly from a base <NUM> and being linearly arrayed along the base <NUM>. The plurality of extension members, for example, a first extension member <NUM> a second extension member <NUM>, a third extension member <NUM>, and a fourth extension member <NUM>, are disposed horizontally spaced apart from each other. Further, as illustrated, the first extension member <NUM> is attached to a first lateral end <NUM> of the base <NUM>, while the second extension member <NUM> is attached to a second lateral end <NUM> of the base <NUM>. Further, the third extension member <NUM> is disposed proximate to the first extension member <NUM> and is located between the first extension member <NUM> and the fourth extension member <NUM>, while the fourth extension member <NUM> is disposed proximate to the second extension member <NUM> and is located between the second extension member <NUM> and the third extension member <NUM>.

The extension members <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be engaged with the base portion <NUM> to facilitate a pivotal motion of the lever portion <NUM> relative to the base portion <NUM>. The base portion <NUM> may include a base plate <NUM> adapted to attached with the surface <NUM>, a plurality of brackets, for example a first bracket <NUM>, a second bracket <NUM>, a third bracket <NUM>, and a fourth bracket <NUM>, extending upwardly from the base plate <NUM> and adapted to receive and support the plurality of extension members <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. In one embodiment, the first bracket <NUM>, the second bracket <NUM>, the third bracket <NUM>, and the fourth bracket <NUM> are, respectively, engaged with the first extension member <NUM>, the second extension member <NUM>, the third extension member <NUM>, and the fourth extension member <NUM>. Further, the base portion <NUM> may include a plurality of housings, for example, a first housing <NUM>, a second housing <NUM>, and a third housing <NUM>, attached to the base plate <NUM>. Each of the housings <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be a hollow semicylindrical structure and may be attached to the base plate <NUM> using fasteners. In an embodiment, the first housing <NUM> is disposed between the first bracket <NUM> and the third bracket <NUM>, the second housing <NUM> is disposed between the second bracket <NUM> and the fourth bracket <NUM>, and the third housing <NUM> is disposed between the third bracket <NUM> and the fourth bracket <NUM>. In an embodiment, the first housing <NUM> is adapted to house a first torsional spring and damper assembly <NUM>, while the second housing <NUM> is adapted to house a second torsional spring and damper assembly <NUM>.

The spring assemblies <NUM>, <NUM> are in this embodiment arranged to bias the lever portion <NUM> to a central position. In the central position, the lever portion <NUM> is disposed substantially perpendicularly to the surface <NUM>, while in the first position, the lever portion <NUM> is positioned at an inclination to the surface <NUM> such that the support structure <NUM> is disposed proximate to the first platform structure <NUM>. Further, in the second position, the lever portion <NUM> is positioned/arranged at an inclination to the surface <NUM> such that the support structure <NUM> is disposed proximate to the second platform structure <NUM>'. The spring assemblies <NUM>, <NUM> together apply a force on the lever portion <NUM> (i.e. the pole) to return the lever portion <NUM> (i.e. the pole) towards the central position when the lever portion <NUM> pivots/moves away from the central position either towards the first position or towards the second position. In an embodiment, the first spring <NUM> and the second spring <NUM> are torsional springs. A structure, an assembly, a function, and an attachment of the first spring <NUM> with the base portion <NUM> and the lever portion <NUM> is now explained. It may be appreciated that a structure, an assembly, a function, and an attachment of the second spring <NUM> with the base portion <NUM> and the lever portion <NUM> is similar to the structure, the assembly, the function, and the attachment of the first spring <NUM> with the base portion <NUM> and the lever portion <NUM>, and therefore, for the sake of clarity and brevity, only the first spring <NUM> and its assembly with the base portion <NUM> and the lever portion <NUM> is explained.

The first spring assembly <NUM> includes an elongated member <NUM> having a first end <NUM>, a second end <NUM>, and an elongated cavity <NUM> extending from the first end <NUM> to the second end <NUM>. In an embodiment, the elongated cavity <NUM> includes a square cross-section, and has a four sides <NUM> and four corners <NUM>. The first spring <NUM> also include an elongated shaft <NUM> having a square cross-section and adapted to be inserted, at least partially, inside the elongated cavity <NUM>. The elongated shaft <NUM> may be disposed inside the elongated cavity <NUM> such that corners <NUM> of the elongated shaft <NUM> contact or abut the sides <NUM> of the elongated cavity <NUM>, while sides <NUM> of the elongated shaft <NUM> are disposed facing the corners <NUM> of the elongated cavity <NUM>, thereby defining gaps, for example, four gaps, therebetween.

In an embodiment, the first spring <NUM> may include a plurality of flexible members <NUM>, for example, four flexible members <NUM>, adapted to be disposed inside the gaps such that a single flexible member <NUM> is inserted inside a single gap. Further, when disposed inside the gap, the flexible member <NUM> abuts an inner surface of the elongated member <NUM> and an outer surface of the elongated shaft <NUM>. The flexible members <NUM> are adapted to deform when the elongated shaft <NUM> rotates inside the elongated cavity <NUM>. Due to the deformation of the flexible members <NUM>, the flexible members <NUM> apply a torque on the elongated shaft <NUM> to rotate the elongated shaft <NUM> to an original position. In an embodiment, the elongated shaft <NUM> is coupled/engaged with the first extension member <NUM> and the third extension member <NUM> via a plurality of fasteners <NUM>. Accordingly, when the lever portion <NUM> moves away from the central position, the first spring <NUM> (i.e. the flexible members <NUM>) applies a biasing force on the lever portion <NUM> to move back the lever portion <NUM> towards the central position. In certain implementations the flexible members <NUM> may be made of rubber. Therefore, the flexible members <NUM> also dampen the motion of the elongated shaft <NUM>, and hence the first spring <NUM> damps the motion of the lever portion <NUM>.

Further, the first spring <NUM> may include a pair of support brackets, for example a first support bracket <NUM> disposed at a first end <NUM> of the first housing <NUM> and a second support bracket <NUM> disposed at a second end <NUM> of the first housing <NUM>, for receiving and supporting the elongated shaft <NUM> such that the a central axis <NUM> of the elongated shaft <NUM> is disposed coaxially to a central axis <NUM> of the elongated cavity <NUM>. Further, the lever portion <NUM> pivots relative to the base portion <NUM> about the pivot axis <NUM> that is coaxial to the central axis <NUM>. The first support bracket <NUM> abuts the first end <NUM>, while the second support bracket <NUM> abuts the second end <NUM>. Further, the support brackets <NUM>, <NUM> are supported by the base plate <NUM>. In an embodiment, the support brackets <NUM>, <NUM> are engaged with a plate <NUM> that in turn is attached to the base plate <NUM>. In such a case, the plate <NUM> may include a pair of cavities <NUM> in which the support brackets <NUM>, <NUM> may be press-fitted. In certain embodiments, one of the first spring <NUM> and/or the second spring <NUM> may be omitted, and in such a case, the spring assembly <NUM> may include a single spring. Springs of this type are often called ROSTA type springs as they are made by the company called Rosta AG.

Additionally, or optionally, the base portion <NUM> may include an elongated stopper <NUM> disposed inside the third housing <NUM> and attached to the base plate <NUM>. Further, the elongated stopper <NUM> is adapted to engage with the third extension member <NUM> and the fourth extension member <NUM>. As shown, the third extension member <NUM> includes a plate <NUM> extending substantially horizontally and adapted to abut or engage with a first step <NUM> of the elongated stopper <NUM>. Similarly, the fourth extension member <NUM> may include a plate <NUM> extending substantially horizontally and adapted to abut/engage with a second step <NUM> of the elongated stopper <NUM>. An abutment of the plates <NUM>, <NUM> with the steps <NUM>, <NUM> prevents a movement of the lever portion <NUM> in an upward direction, thereby ensures a positive engagement or retention of the lever portion <NUM> with the base portion <NUM>.

Additionally, or optionally, in an embodiment (as shown in <FIG>), the pole structure <NUM>, for example, the lever portion <NUM> may include at least one safety structure <NUM> to facilitate a safe landing of the children to the surface <NUM> in the case of an accidental fall. In an embodiment, the safety structure <NUM> may extend from the first end <NUM> towards the support structure <NUM>, and may be disposed below the support structure <NUM>. In an embodiment, the safety structure <NUM> may completely surround a portion of the lever portion <NUM>. As shown, the safety structure <NUM> is connected to an upright structure <NUM>, and is arranged in such a manner that a surface <NUM> of the safety structure <NUM> extends downwardly towards the surface <NUM> at an inclination relative to the upright structure <NUM>, thereby facilitating a sliding of the children, should they fall from the structure, to the surface <NUM>. In an embodiment, an angle of inclination between the safety structure <NUM> and the upright structure <NUM> may be an acute angle. As shown, the safety structure <NUM> may include a polygonal shape. Although a single safety structure is contemplated, it may be appreciated that the lever portion <NUM> may include more than one safety structure. In such a case, the safety structures may be circularly arrayed around the pole <NUM>.

An operation of the playground apparatus <NUM> is now explained and it may be envisioned that the operation of the playground apparatus <NUM>", <NUM>"', <NUM> will be similar. For playing, a child may climb up to the support platform <NUM> by using the first climbing structure <NUM>. Thereafter, the child moves to the first platform structure <NUM> through the access window <NUM> and pulls the pole <NUM>, and hence the lever portion <NUM> towards himself, i.e. to the first position from the central position. In an embodiment, the child may pull the pole <NUM> towards the first platform structure <NUM> by grabbing and pulling the first handle <NUM> using one hand, while holding the second rail <NUM>. In a certain implementation (not shown), a rope may be attached to the lever portion <NUM> and the child may utilize the rope to pull the lever portion <NUM> to the first position. Upon pulling the lever portion <NUM> to the first position, the child may step on the support structure <NUM> and subsequently release the second rail <NUM>. Due to the biasing force provided by the spring assembly <NUM>, the lever portion <NUM> (i.e. the pole <NUM>) may move towards the central position. In a case where the spring biasing force is small, the child will have to push off with his or feet or hands to propel the lever portion away from the first platform.

Thereafter, the child may push the lever portion <NUM> towards the second position. Upon reaching the second position the child can move him or herself off of the lever portion and over to the second platform structure. In this manner, the child may experience a pole-vaulting effect. Further, in order to get off the pole structure <NUM> in a safe manner, the child may grab the second rail <NUM>' of the second platform assembly <NUM> and accordingly move to the second platform structure <NUM>' in a safe manner. Thereafter, the child may get down to the surface <NUM> by using the second climbing structure <NUM>'. In this manner, the playground apparatus <NUM> provides easy climbing between the surface <NUM> and the platform structures <NUM>, <NUM>' and subsequently to the support structure <NUM>.

In one embodiment, the pole structure is arranged to physically contact the first and second platform structures when in the first and second positions respectively. In this case, a bumper element could be arranged on the forward portion of the first and second platform structures. During use, the pole structure could move towards the platform structure and then contact the bumper structure to soften the impact. In one embodiment, instead of having a spring assembly which biases the structure to the centre, the apparatus could be provided with a spring and/or damping assembly which engages the pole structure when it approaches the first and or second position to slow down the motion towards the first and/or second platform.

Claim 1:
A playground apparatus, comprises:
- a first platform assembly (<NUM>) extending upwardly from a surface and including a first platform structure disposed at a vertical distance from the surface;
- a second platform assembly (<NUM>) extending upwardly from the surface and disposed spaced apart from the first platform assembly, the second platform assembly includes a second platform structure disposed at a vertical distance from the surface; and
- a pole structure (<NUM>) extending upwardly from the surface and disposed between the first platform assembly and the second platform assembly, the pole structure including a lever portion (<NUM>) having at least one support structure (<NUM>) for supporting a child, the lever portion being adapted to be pivoted between a first position and a second position, wherein
- in the first position, the at least one support structure is disposed proximate to the first platform structure,
- in the second position, the at least one support structure is disposed proximate to the second platform structure, and
- a height of the at least one support structure from the surface when in the first or second position is substantially equal to a height of the first platform structure or a height of the second platform structure from the surface to facilitate an easy movement of a child between the support structure and the platform assemblies.