A device for a rock climbing wall and a relative manufacturing method therefor

The present invention involves a physical training device for the simulation of rock climbing and a method for the fabrication therefor.

As is known, equipment for the simulation of rock climbing generally comprises an artificial climbing wall, vertical or otherwise inclined relative to the ground, on which numerous holds are fitted permitting a user to grip and climb the wall thereby simulating rock climbing.

This equipment is generally very bulky and consequently can only be installed outdoors or inside large closed structures such as sports centres.

In order to overcome this drawback and permit users to train inside smaller structures, for example in gymnasiums or fitness centres, devices are offered for simulating rock climbing wherein the climbing wall supporting the holds comprises a plurality of rigid battens connected in series with appropriate hinged joints such as to form a continuous flexible chain structure.

This chain structure runs as a continuous belt on a plurality of motorized return rollers circulating around a predetermined closed circuit.

In particular the return rollers exhibit horizontal axes of rotation and are generally arranged at different heights, such that the course of the chain structure comprises at least a useful section, vertical or otherwise inclined relative to the ground, thereby defining the climbing wall on which the user can climb.

During climbing the chain structure remains stationary until the user reaches a predetermined height above the ground, where a photocell or other suitable control device commands the rotation of the return rollers, such that the climbing wall slides downwards, returning the user to a lower level from where he or she may continue climbing

In this way the total vertical development of the climbing wall can be maintained advantageously limited, significantly reducing the vertical bulk of the overall device, which consequently can be installed in relatively limited spaces.

A drawback of this solution is the fact that where the chain structure flexes, for example at the return rollers, the battens from which it is formed rotate relative to each other and reciprocally move away from each other, opening wide fissures in the chain structure, which can represent a significant hazard, i.e. the accidental insertion of the user's fingers.

For this reason the battens are maintained perfectly coplanar to each other along the entire useful length of the chain structure, thereby avoiding the possibility of dangerous fissures opening in the climbing wall where users might be present, but simultaneously significantly reducing the simulatable training dynamics as the climbing wall exhibits a constant inclination relative to the ground.

For the same reason users must be prevented from reaching the top of the climbing wall where a return roller is generally present for the chain structure, such that relative to the overall height of the device, the effectively usable vertical height of the climbing wall is reduced.

Known devices for the simulation of climbing also suffer from certain constructional drawbacks.

In particular, the assembly of the chain structure is generally difficult and laborious, requiring not only the precise positioning of the rigid battens relative to each other but also correct fitting and suitable fixture of the hinged joints such as to guarantee the efficiency of the articulations between the battens.

For the same reason maintenance operations are very complicated and laborious, and in particular maintenance involving the replacement of any damaged battens or hinged joints in order to repair the operation of a defective chain structure.

Furthermore, the construction of devices for the simulation of rock climbing exhibiting chain structures of different lengths and/or dimensions, not only requires modification of the positions of the return rollers and structural parts of the device, but generally also requires creation of new rigid battens as well as the selection and sizing of new hinged joints.

This obviously results in a considerable increase in the costs of manufacturing, assembly, and maintenance since the provision of a larger number of spare parts is required.

The aim of the present invention is to obviate the disadvantages noted in known art with a simple, rational, and economical solution.

This aim is achieved by the characteristics of the invention of the independent claims. The dependent claims delineate preferred and/or particularly advantageous embodiments of the invention.

In particular, the invention provides a device for simulating rock climbing comprising a sliding chain structure on which handhold and foothold means are fitted such as to enable a user to climb the structure, wherein the structure is at least partly formed from a plurality of assemblable modules, each provided with first and second means for interlocking such that the first means for interlocking of each assemblable module engage with the second means for interlocking of at least an adjacent assemblable module, such as to form a joint defining at least an articulation axis perpendicular to the sliding direction of the chain structure.

In this way, the first and second means for interlocking prevent relative rotation between each assemblable module and adjacent assemblable modules from resulting in dangerous fissures forming in the chain structure.

Furthermore, the interlocking assembly system enables easier and faster assembly of the chain structure compared to known types, and also enables realization of chain structures having different lengths and dimensions simply by varying the number and/or relative arrangement of the assemblable modules utilized.

Similarly, maintenance operations are simpler and faster, and in particular those involving the replacement of one or more assemblable modules, for example when these become damaged or their reciprocal arrangement is to be changed, for example in order to modify the distribution of the handhold and foothold means on the chain structure.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the assemblable modules generally comprise an upper face, a lower face, and two opposite and substantially parallel lateral faces, to which the first and second means for interlocking are associated.

The upper face of the assemblable modules forms the side of the chain structure on which the handhold and foothold means are fitted, while the lower face is preferably provided with means for interlocking designed to engage with a cogged wheel for driving the chain structure.

In this way, the chain structure of the invention can be arranged directly around a plurality of cogged return wheels, without the interposing of any other element or mechanical organ, thereby making the proposed solution simple and economical to construct.

The first and second means for interlocking, and possibly the means for engaging, preferably form a single body with the assemblable module, made for example of a plastic material utilizing a moulding or pressing process.

The handhold and foothold means can be directly fixed to at least a respective assemblable module, using screws or other removable means for connection, or can be formed as a single body with the assemblable module.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention the first and second means for interlocking of each assemblable module both comprise a plurality of aligned projections reciprocally separated by cavities such that the projections of the first means of interlocking of each assemblable module can be inserted into the cavities of the second means for interlocking of an adjacent assemblable module.

In particular, the projections of the first means for interlocking are preferably positioned in alignmented with the cavities of the second means for interlocking. The resulting substantially comb-type shape means that the first means for interlocking of each assemblable module can be interlocked with the second means for interlocking of the adjacent assemblable module in different relative positions, and can also be simultaneously interlocked with the second means for interlocking of two or more adjacent assemblable modules, thereby achieving innumerable assembly possibilities for the climbing wall in response to the most varied constructional requirements.

In a preferred embodiment, the projections of the first and second means for interlocking of each assemblable module are each provided with a through-hole, the through-holes of the first means for interlocking of each assemblable module located such as to align with the through-holes of the second means for interlocking of the adjacent assemblable module, thus receiving a hinge pin which forms the articulated joint between the assemblable modules.

In this solution the articulated joint between the assemblable modules is extremely solid and robust and capable of effectively supporting the loads produced by any user climbing on the climbing structure. Furthermore, multiple assemblable modules, arranged alongside each other, can be inserted contemporaneously onto a single articulation pin thereby easily varying the overall width of the climbing wall in response to specific constructional requirements.

As stated above, in the invention the chain structure is preferably a continuous belt ring-wound on a plurality of return rollers, at least one of which is motorized and moves the chain structure around a predetermined closed circuit that comprises at least a useful section defining a climbing wall suitable for climbing by a user.

In the invention the return rollers can exhibit substantially horizontal rotation axes, such that the path of the chain structure develops on a vertical plane, as in the known art. However the return rollers can also have substantially vertical rotation axes, such that the path of the sliding chain structure develops along a horizontal plane. In this case the user can move in a horizontal direction on the climbing wall from right to left or vice versa.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, additional guide means are also associated to the chain structure, for example lateral support guides and/or additional return rollers, suitably positioned such as to define at least a change in direction of the climbing wall, thereby varying the steepness and/or inducing a convoluted shape.

In this way, the portion of wall effectively available to the user is not perfectly flat and instead can exhibit sections of differing inclination thereby offering simulation of different climbing dynamics.

The invention also provides a method for the manufacture of a device for the simulation of rock climbing comprising a sliding chain structure on which handhold and foothold means are fitted.

The method includes realization of the chain structure by means of assembly of a plurality of assemblable modules of the type described above, each of which is generally provided with first and second means for interlocking such that the first means for interlocking of an assemblable module are designed to interlock with the second means for interlocking of at least another assemblable module, thereby forming a joint exhibiting at least an articulating axis at right angles to the sliding direction of the chain structure.

In particular, each of the assemblable modules preferably comprises an upper face, a lower face, and two lateral faces, counterpositioned and substantially parallel, to which the first and second means for interlocking are associated. The upper face defines the side of the chain structure to which the handhold and foothold means are fitted, while the lower face preferably comprises means for engaging designed to engage with a cogged wheel for driving the chain structure. The first and second means for interlocking, and possibly also the means for engaging, can be formed in a single body with the relative assemblable module, which assemblable module Is preferably made of plastic material, for example using a moulding or pressing process. The handhold and foothold means can be fitted directly to the assemblable modules that make up the sliding climbing wall; alternatively the handhold and foothold means can be formed in a single body with the assemblable modules.

In a preferred embodiment, the first and second means for interlocking of each assemblable module both comprise a plurality of aligned projections reciprocally separated by cavities, wherein the projections of the second means for interlocking are counterpositioned and offset relative to the projections of the first means for interlocking, such that the projections of the first means for interlocking of each assemblable module insert into the cavities between the projections of the second means for interlocking of another assemblable module. Preferably the projections of the first and second means for interlocking of each assemblable module are provided with a through hole, wherein the through holes of the first means for interlocking of each assemblable module are aligned with the through holes of the second means of interlocking of another assemblable module, such as to receive a hinge pin thereby forming the articulated joint.

Further characteristics and advantages of the invention will better emerge from the detailed description made herein, provided by way of non-limiting example in the accompanying figures of the drawings.

Figures 1 and 2 are respectively a front view and a lateral view of a device for simulation of rock climbing in a first embodiment of the invention.

Figures 3 and 4 are respectively a front view and a lateral view of a device for simulation of rock climbing in a second embodiment of the invention.

Figures 5 and 6 are respectively a front view and a lateral view of a device for simulation of rock climbing in a third embodiment of the invention.

Figures 7 and 8 are respectively a front view and a lateral view of a device for simulation of rock climbing in a fourth embodiment of the invention.

Figures 9 and 10 are respectively a front view and a lateral view of a device for simulation of rock climbing in a fifth embodiment of the invention.

Figures 11 and 12 are respectively a front view and a lateral view of a device for simulation of rock climbing in a sixth embodiment of the invention.

Figures 13, 14, and 15 are respectively a front view, a lateral view, and a plan view of a device for simulation of rock climbing in a seventh embodiment of the invention.

Figure 16 is an exploded view in a prospective elevation of the coupling of two assemblable modules of the chain structure of the device of the invention.

Figure 17 illustrates three views in orthogonal projection of one of the assemblable modules of figure 16.

Figure 18 is a prospective view from below of an assemblable module of figure 16.

Figures 19, 20, 21 illustrate three different modes of assembly of the assemblable modules of figure 16 for the realization of the chain structure of the device of the invention.

Figure 22 is a detail of the coupling of the chain structure with a relative cogged drive wheel.

Figure 23 is an exploded view in prospective elevation of the coupling of two assemblable modules in an alternative embodiment.

The device for simulating rock climbing, denoted globally by 1 in the accompanying figures, schematically comprises a support frame 2 designed to rest stably on the floor, on which reciprocally parallel return rollers 3 are fitted, and a broad and relatively thin chain structure 4 arranged in a closed band around the return rollers 3 such as to form a closed circuit.

At least one of the return rollers 3 is connected to a drive motor (not illustrated as of known type) which drives the roller around its axis thereby causing the entire chain structure 4 to slide, as an endless belt, around the closed circuit.

The chain structure 4 exhibits an internal surface 40 facing towards the inside of the closed circuit, and an external surface 41 facing outwards from the closed circuit.

Numerous handhold and foothold means are fitted to the external surface 41 of the chain structure 4, denoted individually by 42, generally shaped such as to provide the user with handholds and footholds, artificially reproducing the cavities and/or natural projections of a rock wall. The handhold and foothold means 42 are generally made of plastic or other synthetic materials and can be highly irregular and diverse in shape, in some cases being of relatively small dimensions in order to render the climbing more difficult for the user.

In the present invention the chain structure 4 is realized by the assembly of a plurality of distinct assemblable modules 5, preferably made of plastic material, for example using a moulding or pressing process.

As illustrated in figures 16 to 18, the assemblable modules 5 comprise a lower face 50 forming a portion of the internal surface 40 of the chain structure 4, an upper face 51 forming a portion of the external surface 41 on which the handhold and foothold means 42 are fixed, and two counterpositioned and substantially parallel lateral faces, to which respective first and second means for interlocking are associated, indicated respectively as 52 and 53.

In general the first and second means for interlocking 52, 53 are shaped such that the first means for interlocking 52 of each assemblable module 5 interlock with the second means for interlocking 53 of at least an adjacent assemblable module 5, such as to realize a joint defining an articulation axis A perpendicular to the sliding direction of the chain structure 4 (see figure 16).

In this way, the coupling of the first and second means for interlocking 52 and 53 enables the assemblable modules 5 to rotate relative to each other around the relative axes of articulation A, providing the chain structure 4 with adequate flexibility to slide around the circuit defined by the return rollers 3 without causing the opening of fissures in the chain structure 4 (see figure 22). The interlocking system also enables very easy and rapid assembly of the assemblable modules 5 for the realization of a chain structure 4 of any dimensions, also enabling easy demounting and replacement of any damaged assemblable modules 5, thereby simplifying all maintenance operations.

The assemblable modules 5 do not necessarily need to be identical to each other, although the first and second means for interlocking 52, 53 are prefreably the same on all the assemblable modules 5 making up the chain structure 4. In this way, each assemblable module 5 can be effectively coupled to any other assemblable module 5 of the chain structure 4, thereby enabling the variation of the relative arrangement, for example to differently distribute the handhold and foothold means 42. This solution enables the manufacture of the assemblable modules 5 in series, for example all identical or in a limited number of variants, thereby reducing the cost for the realization of the chain structure 4.

In more detail, the first and the second means for interlocking 52, 53 are integrated entirely with the body of the assemblable module 5 to which they are associated, both comprising a plurality of projections 54 reciprocally aligned and separated by corresponding cavities 55, such that the projections 54 of the first means for interlocking 52 of each assemblable module 5 engage in the cavities 55 of the second means for interlocking 53 of the adjacent assemblable module 5.

As illustrated in figure 17, each assemblable module 5 preferably presents the projections 54 of the first means for interlocking 52 counterpositioned and aligned with the cavities 55 of the second means for interlocking 53, such that the assemblable modules 5 can be assembled in perfect alignment with each other (see figure 19).

The projections 54 of the first means for interlocking 52 also exhibit equal transversal dimensions to the transversal dimensions of the counterpositioned cavities 55 of the second means for interlocking 53, such that the projections 54 of the first means for interlocking 52 of each assemblable module 5 insert substantially snugly in the cavities 55 of the second means for interlocking 53 of the adjacent assemblable module 5, without leaving fissures in the chain structure 4.

In general, the first means for interlocking 52 of each assemblable module 5 can comprise projections 54 of different transversal dimensions and/or variably spaced relative to each other, for example to enable the assembly of two assemblable modules 5 in a single predetermined relative position.

However, it is preferable that the projections 54 of the first means for interlocking 52 of each assemblable module 5 are all equal and equidistant to each other, as illustrated in figure 17. In this way the first means for interlocking 52 of each assemblable module 5 can be interlocked with the second means for interlocking 53 of the adjacent assemblable module 5 in different relative positions, and can also be simultaneously interlocked with the second means for interlocking 53 of two or more adjacent assemblable modules 5, enabling countless possibilities for the assembly of the chain structure 4, thus satisfying the most varied constructional demands (see for example figure 20).

As illustrated in figures 16 to 18, the projections 54 of the first means for interlocking 52 are provided with relative through-holes 56, transversally oriented and mutually aligned. Similarly, the projections 54 of the second means for interlocking 53 are also provided with relative through holes 56, transversally oriented and mutually aligned along a direction parallel to that of the through-holes 56 of the first means for interlocking 52.

In this way, following the coupling of two adjacent assemblable modules 5, the through holes 56 of the first means for interlocking 52 of an assemblable module 5 align with the through holes 56 of the second means for interlocking 53 of the other assemblable module 5, enabling insertion of a transversal pin 6, preferably in steel or hard plastic, that reciprocally locks the assembly and forms the articulated joint between the assemblable modules 5.

On the basis of this solution, the connection between the assemblable modules 5 of the chain structure 4 is very solid and robust, and capable of effectively supporting the loads produced by any user climbing on the chain structure 4. Furthermore, a plurality of assemblable modules 5 can be inserted onto a single transverse pin, aligned with each other (see figures 19 to 21), facilitating variation of the overall width of the chain structure 4 on the basis of different constructional requirements.

It should be noted that the use of a separate transversal pin 6 is not the only possible solution for the realization of the articulated joint between the assemblable modules 5.

For example, in the assemblable modules 5 illustrated in figure 23, the projections 54 of the first means for interlocking 52 are connected with reciprocally aligned transversal bars 6', which extend inside the cavities 55 and are formed entirely in a single body with the relative assemblable module 5. The projections 54 of the second means for interlocking 53 are provided with aligned through-holes 56, each presenting an aperture 56' having a tapered profile and facing the lower face 50 of the assemblable module 5.

In this way, in response to a transverse movement, the bars 6' of each assemblable module 5 can snap fit into the holes 56' of the adjacent assemblable module 5, and engage stably inside the relative through holes 56, thereby realizing the articulated joint.

In a preferred aspect of the invention all the projections 54 of the first and second means for interlocking 52, 53 are aligned flush with the upper face 51 of the relative assemblable module 5, such that the external surface 41 of the chain structure 4 is substantially a single jointed surface (see figures 16 and 22). Furthermore, the extremities of the projections 54 are preferably rounded, further increasing the safety of the articulated joints between the assemblable modules 5.

As illustrated in figures 19 to 21, the assemblable modules 5 of the chain structure 4 are preferably all equally spaced, such that the axes of articulation A of the matched joints are equidistant along the entire extension of the chain structure 4, while they may exhibit different widths in order to ensure increased freedom of assembly (see figure 21).

In particular the interval of the assemblable modules 5 is relatively small, preferably less than 3.6 inches, such that the chain structure 4 can effectively form small radii of curvature, for example passing around return rollers 3 of limited diameter, or to define convoluted circuits.

As illustrated in figure 22, the handhold and foothold means 42 are mounted directly on the upper faces 51 of the assemblable modules 5. In particular, each handhold or foothold means 42 can be fixed to at least a relative assemblable module 5 using a demountable connecting means, for example a screw connection, or each handhold or foothold means 42 can be formed as a single body with the assemblable module 5.

Finally, means for engaging 57 are associated to the lower face 50 of each assemblable module 5, the means for engaging 57 are designed to engage with a relative cogged wheel 7, such as to enable the driving of the chain structure 4. In the illustrated example, the means for engaging 57 are costituted by a profiled cavity afforded directly in the body of the assemblable module 5, and designed to receive a single tooth of the cogged wheel 7.

In this way, it is possible to realize the return rollers 3 of the device 1 using a simple rotating shaft 30 on which two or more cogged wheels 7 are fitted coaxially, and arrange the chain structure 4 directly around the return rollers 3, without the interpositioning of any other element or mechanical organ, providing an extremely simple and economical constructional solution.

In the example illustrated in figures 1 and 2, the chain structure 4 is arranged around only two return rollers 3, which exhibit horizontal axes positioned at different heights, such that the chain structure 4 forms a closed circuit extending along a vertical plane comprising a completely flat useful portion 400 wherein the chain structure 4 runs downwards.

The useful portion 400 is vertical or In any case inclined relative to the floor, forming the artificial climbing wall on which a user can climb by gripping the handhold and foothold means 42 fitted thereon, such as to simulate rock climbing.

In particular, during climbing the chain structure 4 remains stationary until the user reaches a predetermined height above the floor, where a photocell or other control device transmits a signal to an electronic control unit which commands the rotation of the return rollers 3, such that the climbing wall 400 defined by the chain structure 4 runs downwards, moving the user to a lower height above the floor from where the user can continue climbing.

Alternatively the chain structure 4 can be made to run continuously during climbing, at a speed adjusted such that the user can maintain himself or herself at a substantially constant height.

It is noted that the electronic unit, photocells, and/or other means for controlling the rotation of the chain structure 4, are of known type and are consequently not illustrated.

In the illustrated example, the return rollers 3 are also slideably associated to circular guides 20, fitted on the support frame 2 and located at the opposite extremities of the return rollers 3. The return rollers 3 are also associated to suitable drive means (not illustrated being of known type), the drive means being designed to move the return rollers 3 along the circular guides 20, maintaining a constant reciprocal distance, and to lock the return rollers 3 in any position such as to vary the inclination of the climbing wall 400 relative to the floor.

In the version illustrated in figures 3 and 4, each circular guide 20 is substituted with a pair of guides 20' distinct and shaped like concentric and counterpositioned arcs, such as to reduce the overall bulk of the device 1.

In the version illustrated in figures 5 and 6, the useful section 400 of the chain structure 4 has a convoluted profile, such as to simulate, for example, the steepness and/or changes in steepness of a rock wall.

The convoluted development is achieved using rigid profiled guides 21 serving to guide the opposite lateral faces 4 of the useful portion 400, following a development coinciding with the profile conferred to the useful portion 400.

In the version illustrated in figures 7 and 8, the chain structure 4 also runs over a third central return roller 3', not aligned with the first two, such that the useful portion 400 of the chain structure 4 exhibits an inconstant inclination relative to the floor, producing a change in angle as is common on real rock walls. The central return roller 3' can be installed fixedly to the support frame 2, while the other return rollers 3 can run freely independently of each other along the circular guides 20, such as to vary the entity of the change in slope.

Obviously the chain structure 4 of the invention can run over any number of return rollers 3, 3' such as to form any required circuit, for example in order to produce numerous changes of angle in the useful portion 400.

Figures 9 and 10 illustrate a solution functionally analogous to that of figures 7 and 8, but differing in that the return rollers 3 are individually connected to the central return roller 3' using respective rigid lateral arms, respectively 22 and 23. The lateral arms 22 and 23 are articulated to the central return roller 3' such that the return rollers 3 can rotate independently of each other along a circular trajectory centred on the axis of the central return roller 3', such as to vary the entity of the change of angle of the useful portion 400 of the chain structure 4.

In this example the central return roller 3' is supported by two lateral jacks 24, which permit adjustment of the height relative to the floor of the entire group comprising the rollers 3, 3' and the chain structure 4.

Figures 11 and 12 illustrate a solution in which the change in angle of the useful portion 400 of the chain structure 4 is negative, such that the useful portion 400 presents a dihedral angle of less than 180° facing outwards, in this case a right angle. The change in angle is permitted by two rigid angular guides 25 fitted on the support frame 2 in proximity to the central return roller 3', thereby supporting and guiding the opposite lateral edges of the chain structure 4.

Figures 13 to 15 illustrate an alternative embodiment of the device 1, wherein the return rollers 3 have substantially vertical axes of rotation, such that the chain structure 4 describes a closed circuit developing along a horizontal plane and comprising at least a useful portion 400, at which the chain structure 4 is oriented vertically and can be arranged to move from right to left or vice versa.

In this case the user can move horizontally along the useful portion 400 of the chain structure 4, in the opposite direction to the movement of the chain structure 4, holding onto the fitted handhold and foothold means 42.

During this lateral movement of the user the chain structure can remain stationary until the user reaches the end of the useful portion 400, where appropriate means for control command the movement of the chain structure 4 thereby transporting the user towards the opposite extremity. Alternatively the chain structure 4 can move continuously at a speed such that the user, moving across the chain structure 4, remains substantially stationary relative to the surrounding context.

For this second embodiment of the device 1, all and exactly the same solutions described above for the horizontally-arranged return rollers 3, 3' can be proposed.

Obviously a technical expert in the sector might introduce numerous modifications of a practical-technical nature, regarding the device for simulating rock climbing 1 described above, without forsaking the range of the invention as claimed herein below.