GB2464814A

GB2464814A - Modular bungee-cord acrobatic suspension and trampoline structure

Info

Publication number: GB2464814A
Application number: GB0918655A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Darren Ashley Peckitt
Original assignee: RUFF N TUMBLE ADVENTURE WORLD
Current assignee: RUFF N TUMBLE ADVENTURE WORLD
Priority date: 2008-10-31
Filing date: 2009-10-26
Publication date: 2010-05-05
Also published as: GB0819945D0; GB0918655D0; GB2464955A

Abstract

A modular bungee-cord acrobatic suspension and trampoline structure comprises a lower horizontal frame (41,42, figure 3) for supporting a trampoline structure 14; an upper horizontal frame and elongate frame members (34,35) extending between the upper and lower horizontal frames to define virtual side walls wherein the virtual side walls and upper and lower frames together defining a play volume. A bungee-cord acrobatic suspension framework 17,23 is supported upon and optionally extending above the upper horizontal frame and carrying an acrobatic bungee-cord 21 and harness 15 system. A winch 16 is provided to selectively apply tension to the bungee-cord 21 of the cord and harness system. The bungee-cord and trampoline structures are modular in construction such that a plurality of structures may be connected together into a single multiple trampoline system (figures 4-9).

Description

BUNGEE-CORD TRAMPOLINE STRUCTURE

Background:-

This invention relates to an indoor integrated single and multi-bay bungee-cord acrobatic suspension and trampoline structures.

Most commercially operated indoor play centres, sports halls, and family entertainment centres (FEC's) are restricted by the footprint of the building making the provision of single and multi-bay bungee-cord acrobatic suspension and trampoline structures difficult to accommodate at ground level.

Description of the Related Art:-

Children are increasingly demanding more exciting apparatus with which to play. Outdoor bungee trampolines have been in existence for a number of years. Although a number of patterns of outdoor bungee trampolines are known these tend to have very similar operational characteristics.

These characteristics are not intrinsically adaptable for indoor sports halls or play centres.

A typical outdoor bungee trampoline system available today is shown in fig.1. The bungee system consists of typically circular trampoline structures with a central bungee-cord support extending to at least 4.5m and more typically around 7.Om. During use, a user climbs onto the trampoline and into a harness which is suspended from the bungee cords.

The cords are then pre-tensioned by a winch, typically to a point where the user's weight is almost fully supported with the user in the neutral position on the trampoline. This offers enhanced playability, and in particular the offers the opportunity for the safer and easier performance of acrobatic trampolining. For example, the performance of various types of somersaults and other airborne aerobics is facilitated as the jumper is catapulted into the air by the elastic cords.

In the typical arrangement illustrated in fig 1, a trampoline 4 is supported on a frame 6. Bungee cords 1 to support a trampoline user harness (not shown) are suspended on upright supports 5 extending up from the frame 6. Bungee cord extensions 3 pass from the top of the upright supports 5 to a winch motor 2. A user is fitted into a harness, for example attached to the waist, connected to bungee cords 1 on both sides. Once a user is in position the winch motor pretensions the bungee cords as above described by drawing on the extensions 3.

These extensions potentially impinge on the play volume in which a user intends to operate. To avoid obstructing acrobatic trampolining activity it is necessary to ensure that the height of the supports is sufficient and/or the winch motor is placed sufficiently spaced from the in use volume as to provide sufficient room for the performance of acrobatics. In particular, it can be noted that the winch motor in the illustrated example is outside the structure footprint.

This construction makes an apparatus of the typical design illustrated in fig. 1 difficult to integrate into an existing indoor facility.

The floor area required for a single jump system of the conventional design illustrated in fig. 1 is typically at least 21 square metres and for a 4 jump system it is typically at least 100 square metres. This space prohibits their use in most indoor sports arenas and play centres.

For both these reasons, apparatus of the design illustrated in fig. 1 is typically known for outdoor use in isolation, and is not readily suited to indoor use as part of an indoor play facility.

Summary of the Invention:-

In accordance with the invention in a first aspect there is provided a modular bungee-cord acrobatic suspension and trampoline structure comprising: a lower horizontal frame comprising elongate frame members at least defining a perimeter thereof and supporting a trampoline structure; an upper horizontal frame comprising elongate frame members at least defining a perimeter thereof; additional elongate frame members extending therebetween to define virtual side walls, the virtual side walls and upper and lower frames together defining a play volume; a bungee-cord acrobatic suspension framework supported upon and optionally extending above the upper horizontal frame and carrying an acrobatic bungee-cord and harness system; means to selectively apply tension to the bungee-cord of the cord and harness system.

In a typical arrangement, as will be familiar, the bungee-cord acrobatic cord and harness system comprises a harness for holding a trampoline user during use, for example to be worn around the waist, hanging from paired ropes or cords of elastic material. In accordance with the invention these are suspended from the bungee-cord acrobatic suspension framework supported by the upper horizontal frame. In familiar manner, such ropes are pre-tensioned prior to use once a user is inside the harness. This is effected by operation of a tension application means such as a rope winch system.

The bungee-cord acrobatic suspension and trampoline structure of the invention is particularly characterized in that the user play volume is defined by an open frame structure. The additional elongate frame members extending between the upper and lower frames to define virtual side walls combine with the upper and lower frames to provide a trampoline support structure and define a play volume. The play volume perimeters are defined, at least in the virtual sense, by elongate members forming the open frame structure of the trampoline support structure.

This confers several advantages, in particular in relation to integration of the bungee-cord acrobatic suspension and trampoline structure of the invention into an indoor play centre, sports hall or the like, including but not limited to those set out below.

First, the use of a complete frame structure to describe the perimeters of the play volume makes the structure inherently adaptable to integration with similar frame structures making up other elements of an indoor play centre.

Second, the use of a complete frame structure to describe the perimeters of the play volume makes the structure potentially more efficient in use of space. In familiar manner, tension is applied by drawing on extensions of the bungee cords. The use of a complete three dimensional frame structure as the trampoline support structure of the present invention allows these extensions of the cord to run around the open frame at the perimeter of the play volume.

For example, in a convenient arrangement, one or more pairs of bungee cords are suspended to hang either side of a harness from appropriate vertical suspension points on the acrobatic suspension framework supported by the upper horizontal frame, each such cord being provided with a further extension between the vertical suspension point and the tensioning means passing along the frame perimeter, and for example passing horizontally along horizontal frame members.

This frame arrangement provides a more compact tensioning system than that offered by simple uprights alone. The extensions of the ropes are taken immediately to and kept at the perimeter of the play volume to run around the frame. This makes maximum use of the play volume and minimizes volume required.

Moreover, this allows a greater choice of locations for placing the tensioning means than would be the case for an arrangement represented in figure 1. The tensioning means may be mounted upon a frame member defining the perimeter of the play volume. Preferably the tensioning means is located inside the volume defined by the frame structures, for example mounted upon a frame member. Placing the tensioning means inside the volume further minimizes footprint.

In a preferred case, the tensioning means is mounted on a frame member, and for example mounted above the level of the lower horizontal frame supporting the trampoline, for example on a frame member comprising a wall or a horizontal frame. In this arrangement, a tensioning action can be performed at least partly, or optionally completely, by drawing the extensions of the cords in a horizontal direction. Such flexibility is not offered by the simple uprights of figure 1.

Each bungee cord comprises an elongate cord or rope structure fabricated from one or more strands of elastic material and optional further materials for example including a protective sheath. Suitable materials will readily suggest themselves to the skilled person and are not limiting to the invention. Similarly, the harness attached thereto may be of conventional design known from existing bungee trampoline systems.

The trampoline structure preferably comprises of a trampoline cover suspended from the lower horizontal frame. Tram polines covers will preferably be polygonal and for example square or rectangular in shape and be not less than 2.44m x 2.44m.

Similarly each of the lower frame and/or the upper frame conveniently comprises a polygonal structure, and is for example a square or rectangular structure. The virtual side walls defined by the upwardly extending frame members may be vertical or sloping. In particular, walls sloping outwardly from bottom to top might be particularly convenient in enhancing the ability to perform acrobatics within the play volume. In a preferred embodiment, at least one wall extends outwardly in such manner, and conveniently at least a pair of opposed side walls so extend.

In the preferred case the acrobatic suspension framework conveniently comprises one or more frame support structures extending vertically from the upper frame. A frame support structure may comprise an uppermost horizontal bar from which a bungee system may be suspended. In a particular embodiment, said uppermost horizontal bar is supported by paired transverse A-frame structures extending upwardly from opposite edges of the upper frame.

Alternatively, the acrobatic suspension framework may be coextensive with the upper frame.

Conveniently, the acrobatic suspension framework has means to support a bungee cord, for example generally towards the top. In typical arrangement a bungee cord suspends freely from such support means, for example connecting to a user harness, and is passed around such support means to form a cord extension connecting to the tensioning means. The support means may for example be a pulley. Plural support and guide means such as support and guide pulleys may be used to guide an extension of the bungee cord from a suspension point to the tensioning means.

Although it is sufficient in accordance with the invention that the side walls defined by the open frame structure are virtually defined, it is a further advantage of the invention, as a safety feature, particularly for indoor use, that they provide a means to mount a safety restraint structure across a substantial part or all of the extent of the wall comprising for example netting, sheet or the like. Thus, in this preferred embodiment, an enclosed volume comprising at least a bottom surface (formed by the trampoline structure and such additional safety barriers as may be required) and side walls (formed by safety sheeting, netting or the like) is obtained providing for extra safety. Such additional safety structures cannot readily be incorporated with the simple uprights of figure 1.

An objective of this invention is to create a system that minimizes the footprint of a typical bungee trampoline system to allow it to be incorporated into indoor sports arenas and play structures. This is achieved as described above.

A further desirable preferred objective of this invention is to provide a bungee trampoline frame structure can be incorporated into a standard play frame structure, for example for integration into an indoor play arena, either as new build or as a post-construction fitment. To achieve this, the frame structure is preferably constructed from similar components to such a standard play frame structure.

The elongate frame members comprise elongate rigid members suitably connected together. Conveniently the elongate frame members are releasably connectable, for example by suitable connection means such as clamps. Conveniently therefore, the structure is provided in modular form adapted for assembly and disassembly by a user.

The elongate frame members may comprise rods, poles, polygonal or cylindrical tubes or the like. The elongate frame members conveniently comprise metal and for example steel.

To optimize compatibility with a standard play frame structure the frame structure of the invention is preferably constructed from elongate frame members of similar structure to the elongate frame members making up such a standard play frame structure. In a preferred case, the elongate frame members comprise steel tube, such as standard 48mm cylindrical steel tube, and associated commercially available clamps.

The invention is thus in the preferred embodiment readily adapted to be designed to be either freestanding or use the existing sports structures to provide the necessary framework to create the single or multi-bay bungee-cord acrobatic suspension and trampoline structure whilst incorporating either a vertical or horizontal side pull bungee-cord tensioning system.

The design is preferably modular in construction and so adapted as to allow the incorporation of a single or multi-bay bungee trampoline system within a new or existing indoor play structures with either no or minimal impact on the available footprint of the building. This is a significant advantage as any loss of visitor seating negatively impacts the businesses.

In the example described hereinbelow the invention is designed around the 2.44m bays that are the industry standard within the play industry but can be modified to suit a variety of structures. With such standard measurements the floor area required or a single jump system is 10 square meters and for a four jump system it is 40 square metres. This represents a significant reduction in the footprint of the commercially available bungee systems and opens up a significant market potential.

Indeed, if the system is incorporated into dead space in an existing structure (for example in dead volume at above ground level) which its modular constriction makes readily possible, the additional floor area required is effectively zero.

At least some of the side frames are preferably angled out from the base at an angle of not less than 15 degrees to allow space for the acrobatic activities to be performed in safety whilst maintaining the desired base dimension. Vertical sides are possible but this limits the maneuvers to basic jumping.

Preferably, the elongate frame members are covered in suitable padding.

The bungee tensioning mechanism is unique in that it routes the cord extensions around the outer edge of the frame to provide the necessary clearance for the acrobatic user. This provides further flexibility in that the cord can then be tensioned either in a horizontal or vertical direction through suitable placement of the tensioning means, depending upon the chosen layout.

The tensioning means is conveniently a winch motor acting selectively to draw on extensions of the suspended bungee cords to apply a pretension thereto with a user in place in the harness.

In a particular embodiment the invention provides a modular single bungee trampoline frame structure comprising multiple horizontal, vertical and angled tubes interconnected to form a structure including: at least three horizontal rectangular frames one of which provides a trampoline base to support a trampoline; at least two transverse A-frames horizontally separated by a distance not less than the vertical distance between said transverse A-frames and the face of said trampoline; and preferably at least two outwardly extending side walls to provide space for acrobatic maneuvers.

The frame structure may interconnect through suitable commercially available tube fixings for example comprising existing Size 8 tube frame structures interconnected through commercially available inline internal couplings or ground fixings to create a framework including said transverse A-frames.

The transverse A-frames are preferably interconnected through a transverse top span and additional mid-section supports using commercially available tube clamps and may be structurally secured to the said horizontal section via an angled tube from the said transverse top span to the side extension interface. A winch motor may be located on the said the A-frame vertical tube.

Preferably the framework incorporates two side extension sections created through angled tube of an angle of not less than 15 degrees to the vertical.

Alternatively, vertical side sections can be adopted if space is limited. The side extensions (or vertical uprights) may be attached to the said trampoline base through commercially available tube clamps and to the said horizontal tubes, creating a triangular extension section.

The bungee-cord tensioning system uses the said frame work to route the cord around the outside edge of the play structure allowing a more compact placement of the winch motor with either a horizontal or vertical tensioning possible.

In the example embodiment the tensioning system may comprise two single pulleys located in the centre of said transverse A-frame top spans, according through commercially available stainless steel shackles, or suitable alternative, and through eyebolts; a twin pulley arrangement located on the extreme edge of said transverse A-frame top span, and opposite the transverse A-frame supporting the said winch motor; and a single pulley arrangement located on the extreme edge of said transverse A-frame top span and on said A-frame supporting the winch motor.

The bungee tensioning system routing comprises in this case a bungee cord extending from the trampoline surface to the centre single pulley located in the centre of the transverse A-frame top span.

The bungee cord routing directs the cord from the single pulley to the twin pulley and terminates immediately after, conveniently in a commercially available shackle.

The bungee cord routing on opposite A-frame directs the rope from the central pulley to the edge single pulley. The cord is then routed towards to the said opposite A-frame around the said twin pulley and terminated in the said shackle. The bungee cord is then routed back to the opposite A-frame and into the winch motor.

Conveniently at least some horizontal and axial frame members have multiple holes, and said holes are used to install a bouncing face to the rectangular frame by the transverse and axial tubes. The bouncing face preferably comprises multiple elastic elements at a separation of 100mm- 200mm and a resilient mat. Conveniently, at one end an elastic element is joined to a hole of the horizontal and axial frame structure and at the other end to the resilient rectangular mat. The elastic elements may be metal springs or elastic cord. The elastic elements may be protected by vinyl covered foam.

Preferably, a part of the framework is so arranged as to provide an integral waiting area for example comprising said horizontal and axial tubes. This part of the framework is arranged to provide a structure to support a padded floor. The padded floor may be constructed from sheet material covered in foam with a vinyl outer covering.

It is an advantage of the invention that a single bungee-cord acrobatic suspension and trampoline structure may be of modular construction adapted to be joined with other such bungee-cord acrobatic suspension and trampoline structures into a multiple trampoline system with a considerably reduced footprint. This is achievable through the interconnection of the frameworks, for example conveniently via the above mentioned axial side extension sections.

In a possible embodiment a composite system comprises a plurality of modular bungee-cord acrobatic suspension and trampoline structures as hereinbefore described located alongside each other and connected together into a single multiple trampoline system. For example two-, three-or four-trampoline systems may be provided.

Brief Description of the Drawings:-

An example of the invention will now be described by referring to the accompanying drawings: Fig. 1: Standard Arrangement for a bungee-cord frame and tensioning system (single unit) as is commercially available today.

Fig. 2: Modular Bungee Single Jump System -Cord Tensioning Arrangement systematically highlighting the respective pulley positions, cord routing and winch motor layout.

Fig. 3: Modular Bungee Single Jump System -Bungee A-Frame Arrangement systematically highlighting the A-frame design, side extensions, and trampoline frame.

Fig. 4: Modular Bungee Twin Jump System -Cord tensioning arrangement systematically highlighting the respective pulley positions, cord routing and winch motor layout for a two jump system.

Fig. 5: Modular Bungee Twin Jump System -Plan View Arrangement of figure 4 highlighting the trampolines, side extension sections and the waiting area.

Fig. 6: Modular Bungee Triple Jump System -Perspective View of A-Frame layout highlighting the modular nature of the design.

Fig. 7: Modular Bungee Triple Jump System -Plan View of A-Frame layout highlighting the trampolines, side extension sections and the waiting area.

Fig. 8: Modular Bungee Four Jump System -Perpendicular Arrangement Plan view with cord tensioning highlighting the respective pulley positions, rope routing and winch motor layout.

Fig. 9: Modular Bungee Four Jump System -Parallel Arrangement Plan View highlighting the trampolines, side extension sections and the waiting area.

Detailed Description of the Invention:-

As discussed above, figure 1 depicts a standard configuration of a bungee trampoline system. This shows the position of the vertical uprights relative to the trampoline and the positioning of the winch motor. The extent to which the extensions of the bungee ropes drawn between the vertical uprights and the winch motor impinge upon the useable volume is well illustrated. The winch motor is outside the useable volume.

Figures 2 and 3 show a modular bungee single jump system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

In the embodiment, the trampoline framework conveniently consists of 48mm steel tube and associated tube clamps drilled with 6-8mm holes at 100-200mm intervals dependant upon the number of springs and the tension desired in the trampoline cover.

A lower horizontal base frame supports a trampoline cover 14. The trampoline cover 14 is square or rectangular in shape not less than 2.44m x 2.44m.

Additional framework structure makes up side frames and a top frame. At least some of the side frames are angled out from the base frame at an angle of not less than 15 degrees to allow space for the acrobatic activities to be performed in safety whilst maintaining the 2.44m base dimension.

The bungee system framework conveniently also consists of 48mm steel tube and associated commercially available tube clamps creating A-frame supports 20 at a height of not less than 4.Om from the trampoline surface with a horizontal separation between said frames equal to the structure height. The A-frames 20 support pulleys defining suspension points for the bungee-cords 21.

This framework structure is readily adapted to the connection of multiple modules, and is also typical of that used in the framework of indoor play areas, and so the framework structure of the invention is readily incorporated into such indoor play areas.

The steelwork is covered in 9-14mm thick foam wrap with vinyl covering in accordance with BS8409:2002 and fully netted to create safe play arena.

Figure 2 illustrates the cord tensioning arrangement in particular. The distance between the trampoline cover, 14, and the first pulley 11 must be >=4.Om to allow sufficient space to achieve the acrobatic maneuvers. The winch motor, 16, is positioned in the A-frame section, 20, with a minimum allowable clear pull equal to the distance of the first pulley 11 above the trampoline cover 14, i.e. not less than 4.Om to ensure sufficient distance to fully raise and lower the harnesses, 15, attached to the bungee-cords 21.

The connecting ropes, 22, from each side of the harnesses, 15, pass through a single pulley, 11, located along the centre line of the top span 23. The connecting ropes, 22, then pass through a twin pulley, 12, or a single pulley, 13, depending upon which side of the frame the winch motor, 16, is located. From the single pulley, 13, the connecting rope, 22, is routed to the twin pulley, 12, located on the opposite A-frame, 18, and connects to the opposite connecting rope, 22, via a shackle, 24. The winch motor rope, 25, is fastened to the shackle, 24, at an angle of no greater than 5 degrees to allow a smooth and even coil on the winch motor drum, 16.

Figure 3 illustrates the frame design in particular. The frame design, as noted manufactured entirely from 48mm number 8 steel tube unless specified for compatibility with typical play frame structures, is shown in detail in figure 3. The frame design is modular and has been designed be either free standing through floor brackets, 31, or incorporated into the existing play structures through inline connectors, 32. For structural integrity the vertical uprights, 33 & 34, should be constructed from single length tubes. The angled uprights, 35, allow sufficient space for acrobatic maneuvers and are at an angle of not less than 15 degrees from the vertical. The A-Frame supports, 36, need to be located a minimum horizontal distance of 1.22m from the upright, 33, to ensure structural rigidity.

The single pulleys, 37, and twin pulley, 38, are fastened to the top span, 39, through a stainless steel shackle and through eye bolt. Other retention methods are permitted provided they achieve the desired loading.

The trampoline frame can be integrated into the existing structure. The longitudinal members 40 are fastened to the upright posts, 33,34 & 35, through commercially available 90 degree crossover clamps. The tubes are drilled with 6-8mm holes at 100-200mm centres (dependant upon required tension) along the top centerline of the tube throughout its length to allow the assembly of the trampoline springs.

The trampoline frame cross members 41 are attached to the longitudinal frames through commercially available short tee connections. The cross members are also drilled with 6-8mm holes at 100-200mm centres (matching the longitudinal members) along the top centerline of the tube throughout its length to allow the assembly of the trampoline springs.

The trampoline frames must be located no less than 600mm from frame attachment points, either 31 or 32, dependent upon location. This provides sufficient height for the depression of the trampoline.

Horizontal span, 42, provides a waiting area for staff and users of the equipment. This span should be a minimum of 750mm in width.

The twin system illustrated in figure 4 comprises two single modular arrangements back to back. The figure depicts a mirror image arrangement with the tensioning arrangement in that the winch motors, 51, are on opposing A-frames, 52. Although not essential, this provides a simplified arrangement in that all attachment points, pulleys and ropes are in the same horizontal and vertical attitude.

The waiting area, 53, is duplicated thus providing a minimum width of 1.50m to allow space for two staff members and users of the equipment.

Figure 5 is a schematic plan view of an arrangement such as that in figure 4. The plan view highlights the relationship between the trampolines 62, the side extensions 61, and the waiting area 63.

Figures 6 and 7 show a triple system based on the module of figures 2 and 3. The triple jump system comprises of three single modular arrangements with two arranged as a twin jump system and the third position at right angles. The framework structure for this triple system is shown in figure 6. No alterations are required to the basic design.

Figure 7 depicts in plan view the waiting areas, 73, trampolines, 72, and the side extensions, 71.

When the design is extended to four trampolines there is a variety of arrangements that are possible with the modular single frame layout. In figure 8 a cross arrangement is shown in plan view with a bungee rope tensioning system 84 illustrated. The arrangement provides a central waiting area 83, trampolines 82, and side extension sections 81.

Figure 9 depicts in plan view an example alternative four trampoline arrangement possible with the modular single frame layout. The figure depicts a parallel arrangement with separate waiting areas, 93, trampolines, 92, and the side extensions, 91.

In summary, the bungee trampoline frame structure and bungee tensioning system is a modular construction that can be incorporated into standard number 8 tube prevalent in most commercially available play frame structures. The tensioning system introduces a side pull arrangement to allow the winch motors to be positioned in the top of the structure and provide sufficient clearance for acrobatic maneuvers below.

These embodiments described above are to clarify the present invention to enable the person skilled in the art to understand, make, and use the present invention and not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. Any equivalent modification and variation according to the spirit of the present invention is to be included within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A modular bungee-cord acrobatic suspension and trampoline structure comprising: a lower horizontal frame comprising elongate frame members at least defining a perimeter thereof and supporting a trampoline structure; an upper horizontal frame comprising elongate frame members at least defining a perimeter thereof; additional elongate frame members extending therebetween to define virtual side walls, the virtual side walls and upper and lower frames together defining a play volume; a bungee-cord acrobatic suspension framework supported upon and optionally extending above the upper horizontal frame and carrying an acrobatic bungee-cord and harness system; means to selectively apply tension to the bungee-cord of the cord and harness system.
2. A structure according to claim 1 wherein the bungee-cord acrobatic cord and harness system comprises a harness for holding a trampoline user during use, for example to be worn around the waist, hanging from paired ropes or cords of elastic material suspended from the bungee-cord acrobatic suspension framework supported by the upper horizontal frame
3. A structure according to claim 2 wherein one or more pairs of bungee cords are suspended to hang either side of a harness from appropriate vertical suspension points on the acrobatic suspension framework supported by the upper horizontal frame, each such cord being provided with a further extension between the vertical suspension point and the tensioning means passing along the frame perimeter.
4. A structure according to claim 3 wherein the further extensions pass at least in part horizontally along horizontal frame members.
5. A structure according to any preceding claim wherein the tensioning means is mounted on a frame member above the level of the lower horizontal frame.
6. A structure according to any preceding claim further comprising a trampoline cover having square or rectangular shape, and wherein each of the lower frame and upper frames comprises a similar square or rectangular structure.
7. A structure according to any preceding claim wherein at least a pair of opposed virtual side walls defined by the upwardly extending frame members slope outwardly from bottom to top.
8. A structure according to any preceding claim wherein the acrobatic suspension framework has means to support a bungee cord, for example generally towards the top.
9. A structure according to any preceding claim wherein the acrobatic suspension framework comprises one or more frame support structures extending vertically from the upper frame.
10. A structure according to claim 9 wherein the frame support structure comprises an uppermost horizontal bar from which a bungee system may be suspended supported by paired transverse A-frame structures extending upwardly from opposite edges of the upper frame.
11. A modular single bungee trampoline frame structure according to claim 9 or 10 comprising multiple horizontal, vertical and angled tubes interconnected to form a structure including: at least three horizontal rectangular frames one of which provides a trampoline base to support a trampoline; at least two transverse A-frames horizontally separated by a distance not less than the vertical distance between said transverse A-frames and the face of said trampoline; and at least two outwardly extending side walls to provide space for acrobatic maneuvers.
12. A structure according to claim 11 wherein the framework incorporates two side extension sections created through angled tube of an angle of not less than 15 degrees to the vertical.
13. A structure according to claim 11 or 12 wherein the transverse A-frames are interconnected through a transverse top span and additional mid-section supports using tube clamps.
14. A structure according to claim 13 wherein the transverse A-frames are structurally secured to a horizontal section via an angled tube from the said transverse top span to the side extension interface.
15. A structure according to one of claims 13 to 14 further comprising a bungee-cord tensioning system adapted to use the said frame work to route extensions of the cord around the outside edge of the play structure.
16. A structure according to claim 16 wherein the tensioning system comprises a winch motor on an A-frame upright; two single pulleys located in the centre of the transverse A-frame top spans; a twin pulley arrangement located on the extreme edge of said transverse A-frame top span, and opposite the transverse A-frame supporting the said winch motor; and a single pulley arrangement located on the extreme edge of said transverse A-frame top span and on said A-frame supporting the winch motor.
17. A structure according to any preceding claim wherein the elongate frame members are releasably connectable, for example by suitable connection means such as clamps, whereby the structure is provided in modular form adapted for assembly and disassembly by a user.
18. A structure according to any preceding claim wherein the elongate frame members are steel tubes.
19. A structure according to claim 18 wherein the elongate frame members are standard 48mm cylindrical steel tubes.
20. A structure according to any preceding claim wherein at least some horizontal and axial frame members have multiple holes, and said holes are used to install a bouncing face to transverse and axial tubes making up a rectangular frame.
21. A structure according to any preceding claim wherein a part of the framework is so arranged as to provide an integral waiting area in that it comprises a part of the framework arranged to provide a structure to support a padded floor.
22. A composite bungee-cord acrobatic suspension and trampoline system comprises a plurality of modular bungee-cord acrobatic suspension and trampoline structures in accordance with any preceding claim located alongside each other and connected together into a single multiple trampoline system.
23. A trampoline frame structure substantially as described herein with reference to the drawings.
24. A bungee support frame structure substantially as described herein with reference to the drawings.
25. A bungee tensioning system arrangement substantially as described herein with reference to the drawings.