EXERCISE BOARD

Abstract

A system including a board having plurality of generally flat panels rotatably coupled together. The board is movable between an extended position wherein the panels are generally co-planar and together form a generally continuous board surface, and a collapsed position wherein the panels are arranged parallel to each other but are not co-planar. At least one of the panels includes a plurality of openings, wherein each opening is configured to removably receive a handle therein.

Description

FIELD

The present invention is directed to an exercise board, and more particularly to an exercise board with openings configured to receive handles therein.

BACKGROUND

Exercise mats, such as yoga mats, are often used to provide a comfortable, portable and cleanable surface for a user conducting yoga or carrying out other exercises. However many existing yoga mats do not provide structure which can be gripped and provide resistance during the yoga or other exercises, which limits the type of exercises or other activities that can be carried out.

SUMMARY

According to aspects herein, the present disclosure is broadly directed to an exercise board with openings that can receive handles therein to assist the user in using the board. More particularly, in one embodiment the invention is a system including a board having plurality of generally flat panels rotatably coupled together. The board is movable between an extended position wherein the panels are generally co-planar and together form a generally continuous board surface, and a collapsed position wherein the panels are arranged parallel to each other but are not co-planar. At least one of the panels includes a plurality of openings, wherein each opening is configured to removably receive a handle therein. In some embodiments, there may also be a flexible mat, which mat has a second plurality of openings, where each opening of the second plurality of openings is substantially collinearly arranged with respect to each opening within each panel of the board when the board forms a generally continuous board surface and the flexible mat is on top thereof.

In other aspects, the present invention may relate to a system comprising: a board including a plurality of generally flat panels rotatably coupled together, wherein the board is movable between an extended position wherein the panels are generally co-planar and together form a generally continuous board surface, and a collapsed position wherein the panels are arranged parallel to each other but are not co-planar, wherein each of the panels comprise a plurality of openings; a flexible mat having a second plurality of openings, each of the second plurality of openings being substantially co-linear with each of the plurality of openings when the board is in the extended position; and, at least one handle having a retaining mechanism adapted to rotatably engage at least one opening of one of the plurality of openings of the panels, the at least one handle having a tubular body extending from the retaining mechanism, wherein the at least one handle is operatively arranged to be inserted within one opening of the second plurality of openings and the retaining mechanism is operatively arranged to removably engage one opening of one of the plurality of openings of the panels, thereby positioning the openings in a substantially colinear manner with the flexible mat on top of the continuous board surface when the board is in an expanded position, wherein the at least one handle is operatively arranged to maintain the collapsed position of the board when inserted one of the plurality of openings of each of the plurality of openings of each of the panels.

In other embodiments, the tubular body of the at least one handle is cylindrical.

In some possible configurations, the tubular body of the at least one handle has a U-shaped configuration.

In some arrangements, the aforementioned system further comprises: a pair of opening extensions within each of the plurality of openings of the board; and, where the retaining mechanism comprises a pair of retaining tabs extending radially outward from the retaining mechanism, where the at least one handle may be inserted into or removed from each of the plurality of openings when the pair of retaining tabs are substantially aligned within the pair of opening extensions.

In some embodiments, each of the plurality of openings of each of the plurality of generally flat panels are collinearly arranged when the board is in the collapsed position.

In further embodiments, the aforementioned system further comprises at least one carrying strap arranged to removable engage a first end of the board and a second end of the board.

In further possible configurations, the first end is arranged on a first end panel of the plurality of generally flat panels and the second end is arranged on a second end panel of the plurality of generally flat panels, the first end including one or more attachment tabs arranged thereon and the second end including one or more attachment tabs thereon, wherein the at least one carry strap is arranged to removably engage one or more of the one or more attachment tabs of the first end panel or the one or more attachment tabs of the second end panel.

In other possible configurations, each of the plurality of openings of each of the plurality of generally flat panels have a first internal perimeter; and, each of the second plurality of openings of the flexible mat having a second internal perimeter, wherein the second internal perimeter is greater than the first internal perimeter.

In a preferable embodiment, the plurality of generally flat panels comprises six panels.

In some embodiments, the aforementioned system may further include a second handle, the second handle having a retaining mechanism and a tubular body extending from the retaining mechanism, wherein the second handle is operatively arranged to be inserted within another opening of the second plurality of openings and the retaining mechanism of the second handle is operatively arranged to removably engage another opening of one of the plurality of openings of the panels, thereby positioning the openings in a substantially colinear manner with the flexible mat on top of the continuous board surface when the board is in an expanded position, wherein the second handle is operatively arranged to maintain the collapsed position of the board when inserted one of the plurality of openings of each of the plurality of openings of each of the panels.

In even further possible embodiments, the aforementioned system may also have at least one plug, the at least one plug may comprise: a retaining mechanism adapted to rotatably engage at least one opening of one of the plurality of openings of the panels; and, a dome portion extending from the retaining mechanism, the dome portion having a greater diameter than each opening of the second plurality of openings of the flexible mat, wherein the at least one plug is adapted to be removably engaged to one opening of one plurality of openings of one of the panels and one opening of the second plurality of openings, thereby removably securing the flexible mat on top of the continuous board surface when the board is in an expanded position.

In some other possible embodiments, the at least one handle may include at least one of: a spherical portion extending from the retaining mechanism instead of the tubular body; and, a spherical portion extending from the tubular body.

In even further configurations, the tubular body of the at least one handle may be configured as one or more of: an L-shape; or, a T-shape.

In further aspects, the present invention could relate to a system having: a board including a plurality of identical panels rotatably coupled together, wherein the board is movable between an extended position wherein the panels are generally co-planar and together form a generally continuous board surface, and a collapsed position wherein the panels are arranged parallel to each other but are not co-planar, wherein each of the panels comprise a plurality of openings, the plurality of openings of each panel of the plurality of panels are substantially aligned when the board is in the collapsed position and form a plurality of passageways, each of the plurality of openings having a female retaining mechanism therein; and, at least one handle having a male retaining mechanism and a tubular body extending from the retaining mechanism, the at least one handle include a flange arranged opposite the male retaining mechanism, the male retaining mechanism arranged to removably secure within one of the female locking mechanisms, wherein the at least one handle is arranged to be removably inserted into one of the plurality of passageways when the board is in the collapsed position and rotatably locked therein via the male retaining mechanism and the female locking mechanism of one of the plurality of passageways, thereby maintaining the collapsed position by sandwiching the plurality of panels substantially between the male retaining mechanism and the flange.

In some embodiments of the abovementioned system, the system may also include a flexible mat having a second plurality of openings therein, the at least one handle is operatively arranged to be inserted within one opening of the second plurality of openings and the male retaining mechanism is operatively arranged to removably engage the female retaining mechanism of one of the openings of one of the plurality of openings of the panels, thereby positioning the openings in a substantially colinear manner with the flexible mat on top of the continuous board surface when the board is in an expanded position.

In other possible configurations the female retaining mechanism includes a pair of opening extensions; and, the male retaining mechanism includes a pair of retaining tabs extending radially outward therefrom, wherein the at least one handle may be inserted into or removed from each of the plurality of openings when the pair of retaining tabs are substantially aligned within the pair of opening extensions.

In other embodiments, the aforementioned system may further include at least one plug having: a second male retaining mechanism adapted to rotatably engage one female retaining mechanism; and, a dome portion extending from the second male retaining mechanism, the dome portion having a greater diameter than each opening of the second plurality of openings of the flexible mat, wherein the at least one plug is adapted to be removably engaged to one opening of one plurality of openings of one of the panels and one opening of the second plurality of openings, thereby removably securing the flexible mat on top of the continuous board surface when the board is in an expanded position.

These and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon a review of the following detailed description of the invention, in view of the drawings and appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION

Various embodiments are disclosed, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings in which corresponding reference symbols indicate corresponding parts, in which:

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of another embodiment of the board, shown in conjunction with two handles exploded therefrom;

FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of the board of FIG. 1, shown in a partially collapsed position;

FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of the board of FIG. 1, shown in a collapsed position;

FIG. 4 is an underside view of a boss of the board of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 shows the boss of FIG. 4, with the distal end of a handle inserted therethrough and twisted;

FIG. 6 is a detail cross sectional view of the board of FIG. 1, with a mat positioned thereon and pair of handles coupled thereto;

FIG. 7 shows the board of FIG. 1 in conjunction with a mat;

FIG. 8 shows the mat of FIG. 7 positioned on the board, with a user position thereon;

FIG. 9 shows the board of FIG. 3, in conjunction with a carrying strap, and with the mat in a rolled-up configuration;

FIG. 10 is a side cross section taken generally along line 10-10 of FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 shows one or more plugs interfacing with the board shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 12 generally illustrates an embodiment of the plugs shown in FIG. 11;

FIGS. 13-14 illustrate alternative embodiments of the handle shown in FIG. 1;

FIGS. 15A and 15B show a portion of the board shown in FIG. 1 with a further embodiment of a pair of handles interfacing with the board; and,

FIGS. 16A and 16B show embodiments of the pair of handles shown in FIGS. 15A and 15B, respectively.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

At the outset, it should be appreciated that like drawing numbers on different drawing views identify identical, or functionally similar, structural elements. It is to be understood that the claims are not limited to the disclosed aspects.

Furthermore, it is understood that this disclosure is not limited to the particular methodology, materials and modifications described and as such may, of course, vary. It is also understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular aspects only, and is not intended to limit the scope of the claims. Those in the art will understand that any suitable material, now known, or hereafter developed, may be used in forming the present invention described herein.

Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood to one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. It should be understood that any methods, devices or materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the example embodiments.

The word “example” or “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any implementation described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other implementations.

If the specification states a component or feature “may,” “can,” “could,” “should,” “would,” “preferably,” “possibly,” “typically,” “optionally,” “for example,” “often,” or “might” (or other such language) be included or have a characteristic, that a specific component or feature is not required to be included or to have the characteristic. Such a component or feature may be optionally included in some embodiments, or it may be excluded.

It should be noted that the terms “including”, “includes”, “having”, “has”, “contains”, and/or “containing”, should be interpreted as being substantially synonymous with the terms “comprising” and/or “comprises”.

It should be appreciated that the term “substantially” is synonymous with terms such as “nearly,” “very nearly,” “about,” “approximately,” “around,” “bordering on,” “close to,” “essentially,” “in the neighborhood of,” “in the vicinity of,” etc., and such terms may be used interchangeably as appearing in the specification and claims. It should be appreciated that the term “proximate” is synonymous with terms such as “nearby,” “close,” “adjacent,” “neighboring,” “immediate,” “adjoining,” etc., and such terms may be used interchangeably as appearing in the specification and claims. The term “approximately” is intended to mean values within ten percent of the specified value.

It should be understood that use of “or” in the present application is with respect to a “non-exclusive” arrangement, unless stated otherwise. For example, when saying that “item x is A or B,” it is understood that this can mean one of the following: (1) item x is only one or the other of A and B; (2) item x is both A and B. Alternately stated, the word “or” is not used to define an “exclusive or” arrangement. For example, an “exclusive or” arrangement for the statement “item x is A or B” would require that x can be only one of A and B. Furthermore, as used herein, “and/or” is intended to mean a grammatical conjunction used to indicate that one or more of the elements or conditions recited may be included or occur. For example, a device comprising a first element, a second element and/or a third element, is intended to be construed as any one of the following structural arrangements: a device comprising a first element; a device comprising a second element; a device comprising a third element; a device comprising a first element and a second element; a device comprising a first element and a third element; a device comprising a first element, a second element and a third element; or, a device comprising a second element and a third element.

Moreover, as used herein, the phrases “comprises at least one of” and “comprising at least one of” in combination with a system or element is intended to mean that the system or element includes one or more of the elements listed after the phrase. For example, a device comprising at least one of: a first element; a second element; and, a third element, is intended to be construed as any one of the following structural arrangements: a device comprising a first element; a device comprising a second element; a device comprising a third element; a device comprising a first element and a second element; a device comprising a first element and a third element; a device comprising a first element, a second element and a third element; or, a device comprising a second element and a third element. A similar interpretation is intended when the phrase “used in at least one of:” is used herein. Furthermore, as used herein, “and/or” is intended to mean a grammatical conjunction used to indicate that one or more of the elements or conditions recited may be included or occur. For example, a device comprising a first element, a second element and/or a third element, is intended to be construed as any one of the following structural arrangements: a device comprising a first element; a device comprising a second element; a device comprising a third element; a device comprising a first element and a second element; a device comprising a first element and a third element; a device comprising a first element, a second element and a third element; or, a device comprising a second element and a third element. A similar interpretation is intended when the phrase “used in at least one of:” or “one of:” is used herein.

Furthermore, as used herein, “and/or” is intended to mean a grammatical conjunction used to indicate that one or more of the elements or conditions recited may be included or occur. For example, a device comprising a first element, a second element and/or a third element, is intended to be construed as any one of the following structural arrangements: a device comprising a first element; a device comprising a second element; a device comprising a third element; a device comprising a first element and a second element; a device comprising a first element and a third element; a device comprising a first element, a second element and a third element; or, a device comprising a second element and a third element.

Adverting now to the figures, FIGS. 1-11 illustrate board system 10′, but it should be understood that the details described for the board system shown in FIGS. 1-3 of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/698,210, can be applied to board system 10′, can also be applied to the board system 10′ (and vice-versa), including for example the properties of the board 12, 12′; panels 14, 14′; mat 32, 32′; openings 24, handles 26, etc.

FIGS. 11-16B disclose various attachment accessories that are adapted to interface with board system 10′ shown in FIGS. 1-11.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-11, board 12′ includes six panels 14′ that are pivotally, rotatably or hingedly coupled together. However, board 12′ can include any number of desired panels 14′, including at least two panels 14′ in one case, or at least three in another case, and less than ten panels 14′ in yet another case.

Each of panels 14′ can be rotatably coupled to an adjacent panel by one or more of hinges 36, that allows each panel 14′ to rotate, pivot or hinge up to only about 180 degrees in one case about a hinge line or line/area of rotation 37 (See FIG. 2), or slightly more than 180 degrees (e.g. about 190 or 200 degrees in one case, to accommodate tolerances and the thickness of panels 14′). In some embodiments, hinges 36 may include or take the form of a link or linkage, and more specifically a two-axis link that enable panels 14′ to rotate relative to each other, and it should be appreciated that the term “hinge” includes such links, linkages or other similar structures or arrangements, and the term “hingedly” includes the utilization or operation of such links, linkages other similar structures or arrangements. If a classic hinge is utilized, a gap may be required to be positioned between adjacent panels 14′ to provide clearance and allow pivoting of panels 14′ and/or the hinge may be offset from hinge line 37.

Hinges 36 can be configured in an alternating arrangement with respect to the direction in which hinges 36 allow rotation, such that board 12′ is foldable in an accordion-style or concertina-style manner, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. In this manner board 12′ is movable between an extended configuration (See FIG. 1) wherein panels 14′ are generally co-planar, and their upper surfaces are aligned and together form a generally continuous board surface, and a collapsed configuration (See FIG. 3) where panels 14′ are arranged parallel to each other but not co-planar, and their outer perimeters are generally aligned. When in the collapsed configuration, panels 14′ can be positioned immediately adjacent to each other and/or in contact with each other. The ability of board 12′ to move to the collapsed configuration enables the board to assume a relatively small size/footprint (as compared to the extended configuration), for ease of storage and transportation.

In the illustrative embodiments, each panel 14′ is generally rectangular, and can have a dimension in the longitudinal direction B of at least ˜6 inches in one case, or about 12 inches in another case, and less than ˜24 inches in another case. Each of panels 14′ can have a dimension in the lateral direction A of at least ˜9 inches in one case or ˜24 inches in another case, or less than ˜36 inches in yet another case. However, one or more, or each, of panels 14′ can have shapes other than rectangular, including square, having at least one side, or two sides, that are at least ˜18 inches long in one less, or ˜24 inches long in one case, or less than ˜36 inches long in one case.

Each of panels 14′ includes a plurality of openings, e.g., openings 24, formed therein, where each of opening 24 is configured to removably receive handle 26 therein (and one or more of a plug or alternative handle configuration). In the illustrated embodiment, each of panel 14′ includes fourteen of openings 24, with two outer columns of four of openings 24 extending in the longitudinal direction B, and two inner columns of three of openings 24. However, each of panel 14′ can include any number of desired openings and arrangements of the openings, including those described and shown in FIGS. 1-3 of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/698,210. Each of opening 24 can be at least partially defined by opening boss 38 positioned on an underside of each of associated panel 14′.

In the illustrated embodiment, each panel 14′ is generally identical to other panels 14′ in terms of size, shape, thickness, size and placement of openings 24, etc. This can provide ease of manufacturing in that only one type of panel 14′ needs to be made, and board 12′ can then be assembled in a modular manner. Openings 24 of one of panel 14′ may have mirror symmetry with any adjacent panel 14′ with respect to hinge line 37 positioned therebetween. In this case, when board 12 is in its collapsed position, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 9-10, each of openings 24 are aligned. For purposes explained in greater detail below, it may be desired for at least one of opening 24 of each of panel 14′ (or, in another case, at least two of opening 24 of each of panel 14′) to be aligned with opening 24 of each adjacent panel 14′, and opening 24 of all other panels 14′ of board 12, when board 12 is in the collapsed position.

Each of handle 26 can in one case have a generally constant cross section, such as a circular cross section to provide cylindrical handle 26, but can have other cross sections such as square, octagonal, oval, etc. or have a varying cross section. If desired, in one case each of handle 26 can be curved or have a generally “U” shape to enable handle 26 to provide an at least partially closed shape through which user 30 can insert their foot, arm, etc. Some potential embodiments of the curved or “U” shape of handle 26 are shown in FIGS. 15A through 16B, described further, infra. Each of handle 26 can include a relatively soft/pliable gripping component 40 positioned on an outer surface thereof to provide a comfortable surface for gripping by user 30. Each of handle 26 can also be configured to be manually removably coupled to associated panel 14′ when handle 26 (or at least the distal end of handle 26) is positioned in one of opening 24. In particular, each of handle 26 can including retaining mechanism 42 to retain the handle in place. In the illustrated embodiment, retaining mechanism 42 includes or takes the form of a pair of radially outwardly extending retaining tabs 28 positioned at a lower or distal end of handle 26, and positioned 180 degrees apart in the illustrated embodiment.

Each of opening 24 of board 12′ can correspondingly include a pair of opening extensions 44, where opening extensions 44 are positioned 180 degrees apart in the illustrated embodiment are each configured to receive one of tabs 28 of handle 26 therethrough when handle 26 is properly aligned and positioned in opening 24. In this manner, handle 26 and tabs 28 can be passed through opening 24 until tabs 28 are positioned on a bottom or distal end of panel 14′/board 12′, and more particularly the bottom or distal end of opening boss 38. Handle 26 is then rotated to a locked position to cause the retaining tabs 28 to be misaligned with the opening extensions 44, as shown in FIG. 5. In other words, retaining mechanism 42 of handle 26 is a “male” retaining mechanism.

With reference to FIGS. 4 and 5, each of boss 38 can include a pair of opposed stops 48 which are engaged by tabs 28, when handles 26 are sufficiently rotated, to ensure handles 26 are sufficiently rotated to the locked position. In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, each of handle 26 can include a circumferentially-extending flange 50, which is configured to engage a top side of board 12′ when handle 26 is inserted into one of openings 24, to limit the insertion of handle 26 and ensure retaining tabs 28 are inserted to the desired depth relative to boss 38 and stops 48.

In this manner, when handle 26 is in the locked position, handle 26 is releasably coupled in place, and can resist removal therefrom until handle 26 is returned to the unlocked position. The lockable nature of handles 26 and/or retaining mechanism 42 thereby helps to secure handles 26 in place, prevent inadvertent removal, and enables user 30 to apply force to handle 26 without causing removal of handle 26. However, it should be understood that handles 26 can be coupled to board 12′/panels 14′ by any of a wide variety of mechanisms and methods, and retaining mechanism 42 can take any of a wide variety of forms and shapes other than tabs 28/opening extensions 44, such as press-fit or interference fits, claps, spring-biased latches, brackets, ramps/tabs, bayonet-style couplings, etc. In other words, each of boss 38 of each of panel 14′ is a “female” retaining mechanism.

Each of handle 26 can also operate as a coupling system to retain board 12′ in the collapsed portion. In particular, as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, when board 12′ is in the collapsed position, one or more of handles 26 (or other item, such as a rod, wire, cable, insert, rope or the like) can be aligned with aligned openings 24 of panels 14′. The upper end of each of handle 26 can then be passed entirely through aligned openings 24 until flange 50 at the bottom/distal end engages the outer/upper surface of panel 14′. Tabs 28 on the upper end of handle 26 can then protrude through collapsed board 12′ (See FIG. 10), and be utilized to secure handle 26 in place (e.g. by twisting handle 26, in the illustrated embodiment). This rotation of handle 26 will cause tabs 28 to become misaligned with opening extensions 44 to retain handle 26 in place. In this manner board 12′ trapped between flange 50 and tabs 28 and is secured in the collapsed position and prevented from moving to the extended position. Thus, in one case each of handle 26 has a length that generally corresponds to a thickness of board 12′ (e.g. at least as long as the thickness of board 12′, or within about 10% in one case, or about 20% in another case) when board 12′ is in the collapsed position.

If desired, both of handles 26 (or additional handles) can be utilized to further secure board 12′ in the collapsed position. Using handles 26 to secure board 12′ in the collapsed position also provide a convenient way to store and transport one or more of handle 26. When it is desired to utilize board 12′, one or more of handle 26 can be unlocked and removed from openings 24, and board 12′ can be unfolded to its extended position as shown in FIG. 1.

Board system 10′ can include or be used in conjunction with mat 32′ when board 12′ is in the extended position. As shown in FIGS. 6 and 8, mat 32′ can be positioned on and aligned with board 12′ for use with board 12′. As in the embodiment described above, mat 32′ can have openings 24 formed therethrough that have the same or generally the same size, shape and spacing of openings 24 of board 12′ such that openings 24 of mat 32′ are generally aligned with openings 24 of board 12′, when mat 32′ is positioned on and aligned with board 12′. Thus, openings 24 of mat 32′ can enable handles 26 to be passed therethrough and received in openings 24 of board 12 when mat 32′ is positioned on board 12′. In one case, openings 24 of mat 32′ are slightly larger than opening 24 of the board 12′, so that handles 26, including tabs 28, can be passed therethrough with little or no resistance. Mat 32′ can have the same number of openings 24 in the same position as the underlying board 12′, or a different number or arrangement of openings 24.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, mat 32′ only has openings 24 that correspond to the outer two end panels 14′ of board 12′. This arrangement can enable mat 32′ to cover openings 24 of center panels 14′ of board 12′ and provide a continuous, and more comfortable, surface along the center of mat 32′, which would be expected to typically support the torso of a wearer. However, as outlined above, mat 32′ can have other configurations of openings 24, including where some or all of openings 24 of center panels 14′ are uncovered.

As shown in for example in FIGS. 3 and 9-10, one or both outer-most panels 14′ can include one or more attachment tabs 58 at a distal end thereof. Each attachment tab 58 is configured to be coupled to a carrying strap or straps 60 to enable board 12′ to be manually carried by carrying strap(s) 60. In addition, carrying strap(s) 60 is configured to receive mat 32′ positioned thereunder, in a rolled-up configuration. In this manner board 12′, panels 14′ and handles 26 can be easily carried and conveniently and transported by a user.

In reference to FIGS. 11 and 12, board system 10′ may also include one or more of plugs 80, which removably, in a rotatably locking manner, secure flexible mat 32′ on to top of board 12′ when board 12′ is in an expanded position, i.e., each of panels 14′ are generally co-planar and together form a generally continuous board surface. Plug 80 generally comprises retaining mechanism 42 with tabs 28, substantially identical to retaining mechanism described supra in view of FIGS. 6-8, allowing plug 80 to be rotatable locked within one of opening 24 of one of panel 14′, i.e., plug 80 is rotated to a locked position once within the opening causing retaining tabs 28 to be misaligned with opening extensions 44 of boss 38 of the opening, as shown in FIG. 8. Primarily, one or more of plugs 80 removably secure mat 32′ on top of board 12′, as generally illustrated in FIG. 11. As such, retaining mechanism 42 of plug 80 is inserted through collinearly aligned openings 24 of both mat 32′ and one of panels 14′ of board 12′, where retaining mechanism 42 is then rotatably locked within the opening of the respective panel—generally described above. Dome portion 82 extends from a top end of retaining mechanism 42 of plug 80, where dome portion 82 has a circumference which is greater than a circumference of each of opening 24 of mat 32′, preventing mat 32′ from being completely removed from board 12′ until plug 80 is unlocked from an opening of one of panels 14′ of board 12′.

FIGS. 13 and 14 generally illustrate alternative embodiments of handle 26, namely, spherical handle 84. In one possible configuration, generally shown in FIG. 13, the body portion or tubular body, generally “26,” extends from retaining mechanism 42, as described supra. Extending from the body portion is spherical portion 86. In another possible configuration, generally shown in FIG. 14, spherical handle 84 may instead have spherical portion 86 extending directly from retaining mechanism 42. In either configuration, spherical portion 86 provides a different shaped handle allowing users who may have difficulty grabbing or using the tubular body of handle 26, to utilize the handle. A spherical grip, meaning the grip a user uses when grabbing spherical portion 86 is considered to promote natural hand alignment and reduced strain, e.g., ergonomic. Additionally, spherical portion 86 can be utilized a pressure point for users to massage various body parts against. As such, spherical portion 86 can be configured as one or more of rigid/hard, semi-rigid/semi-deformable, or soft/deformable, to accommodate different individual needs.

FIGS. 15A and 15B illustrate one panel, panel 14′ of the board system and a portion of mat 32′ arranged thereon with first L-handle 26a and second L-handle 26b. The L-handles each have retaining member 42 arranged at a distal end of their respective tubular bodies, allowing each of the handles to lockingly engage one of openings 24 of panel 14′, preferably an aligned pair of openings 24, where each of opening 24 of the pair of openings 24 is on opposite sides of an imaginary center line of panel 14′, e.g., one pair of aligned openings from both inner columns of openings, one pair of aligned openings from both outer columns of openings, one pair of aligned openings from one of the inner columns of openings and from one of the outer columns of openings, etc. At an opposite end of retaining member, L-extensions 88 extend from each of L-handles 26a and 26b, forming an L-shape or elbow-like member. L-extension 88 of L-handle 26a has end 96 which is defined by mating body 96 and L-extension 88 of L-handle 26b has end 90 which has cavity 94 therein and notch 92 open to cavity 94. Once L-handle 26a is rotatably locked within one of openings 24, L-handle 26b is inserted into an aligned opening, spaced apart from opening 24 having L-handle 26a therein, L-handle 26b is rotated to allow tabs 28 of retaining member 42 to rotatably lock within the boss of the respective opening. When being rotated, notch 92 of cavity 94 of L-handle 26b accepts mating body 98 of L-handle 26a therein, forming a U-shape with the interlocked ends, e.g., ends 98 and 90, of L-handles 26a and 26b, respectively.

In reference to FIGS. 15A through 16B, first L-handle 26a has an alternative embodiment, T-handle 26c, shown in FIG. 16B. T-handle 26c includes all of the components of first L-handle 26a and additionally, has secondary extension 102 extending from L-extension 88 opposite end 96, thereby forming a T-shape. First L-handle 26a and T-handle 26c may have cap 100a which is arranged to engage and at least partially cover mating body 96, allowing either of first L-handle 26a and T-handle 26c to be used alone. Similarly, and generally shown in FIG. 16A, second L-handle 26b may have plug 100b which may be inserted into cavity 94 and is shaped such that a portion of plug 100b protrudes to fit within notch 92, thereby allowing second L-handle 26b to be used alone.

Thusly, the embodiments shown and described are merely exemplary and various alternatives, combinations, omissions, of specific components, or foreseeable alternative components, understood by one having ordinary skill in the art, described in the present disclosure or within the field of the present disclosure, are intended to fall within the scope of the appending claims.

It will be appreciated that various aspects of the present disclosure and other features and functions, or alternatives thereof, may be desirably combined into many other different systems or applications. Various presently unforeseen or unanticipated alternatives, modifications, variations, or improvements therein may be subsequently made by those skilled in the art which are also intended to be encompassed by the claims.

REFERENCE NUMERALS

• • 10′ Board system
  • 12′ Board
  • 14 Panel
  • 24 Openings
  • 26 Handle
  • 26 a First L-handle
  • 26 b Second L-handle
  • 26 c T-handle
  • 28 Retaining tabs
  • 30 User
  • 32′ Flexible mat
  • 36 Hinges
  • 37 Line/area of rotation
  • 38 Opening boss
  • 40 Gripping component
  • 42 Retaining mechanism
  • 44 Opening extensions
  • 48 Stops
  • 50 Flange
  • 58 Attachment tab
  • 60 Strap
  • 80 Plug
  • 82 Dome portion
  • 84 Spherical Handle
  • 86 Spherical portion
  • 88 L-extension
  • 90 End
  • 92 Notch
  • 94 Cavity
  • 96 End
  • 98 Mating body
  • 100 a Cap
  • 100 b Plug
  • 102 Secondary Extension

Claims

1. A system comprising: a board including a plurality of generally flat panels rotatably coupled together, wherein the board is movable between an extended position wherein the panels are generally co-planar and together form a generally continuous board surface, and a collapsed position wherein the panels are arranged parallel to each other but are not co-planar, wherein each of the panels comprise a plurality of openings;a flexible mat having a second plurality of openings, each of the second plurality of openings being substantially co-linear with each of the plurality of openings when the board is in the extended position; and,at least one handle having a retaining mechanism adapted to rotatably engage at least one opening of one of the plurality of openings of the panels, the at least one handle having a tubular body extending from the retaining mechanism, wherein the at least one handle is operatively arranged to be inserted within one opening of the second plurality of openings and the retaining mechanism is operatively arranged to removably engage one opening of one of the plurality of openings of the panels, thereby positioning the openings in a substantially colinear manner with the flexible mat on top of the continuous board surface when the board is in an expanded position, wherein the at least one handle is operatively arranged to maintain the collapsed position of the board when inserted one of the plurality of openings of each of the plurality of openings of each of the panels.

2. The system recited in claim 1, wherein the tubular body of the at least one handle is cylindrical.

3. The system recited in claim 1, wherein the tubular body of the at least one handle has a U-shaped configuration.

4. The system recited in claim 1 further comprising: a pair of opening extensions within each of the plurality of openings of the board; and,wherein the retaining mechanism comprises a pair of retaining tabs extending radially outward from the retaining mechanism,wherein the at least one handle may be inserted into or removed from each of the plurality of openings when the pair of retaining tabs are substantially aligned within the pair of opening extensions.

5. The system recited in claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of openings of each of the plurality of generally flat panels are collinearly arranged when the board is in the collapsed position.

6. The system recited in claim 1 further comprising at least one carrying strap arranged to removable engage a first end of the board and a second end of the board.

7. The system recited in claim 6, wherein the first end is arranged on a first end panel of the plurality of generally flat panels and the second end is arranged on a second end panel of the plurality of generally flat panels, the first end including one or more attachment tabs arranged thereon and the second end including one or more attachment tabs thereon, wherein the at least one carry strap is arranged to removably engage one or more of the one or more attachment tabs of the first end panel or the one or more attachment tabs of the second end panel.

8. The system recited in claim 1, wherein: each of the plurality of openings of each of the plurality of generally flat panels have a first internal perimeter; and,each of the second plurality of openings of the flexible mat having a second internal perimeter, wherein the second internal perimeter is greater than the first internal perimeter.

9. The system recited in claim 1, wherein the plurality of generally flat panels comprises six panels.

10. The system recited in claim 1 further comprising a second handle, the second handle having a retaining mechanism and a tubular body extending from the retaining mechanism, wherein the second handle is operatively arranged to be inserted within another opening of the second plurality of openings and the retaining mechanism of the second handle is operatively arranged to removably engage another opening of one of the plurality of openings of the panels, thereby positioning the openings in a substantially colinear manner with the flexible mat on top of the continuous board surface when the board is in an expanded position, wherein the second handle is operatively arranged to maintain the collapsed position of the board when inserted one of the plurality of openings of each of the plurality of openings of each of the panels.

11. The system recited in claim 1 further comprising at least one plug having: a retaining mechanism adapted to rotatably engage at least one opening of one of the plurality of openings of the panels; and,a dome portion extending from the retaining mechanism, the dome portion having a greater diameter than each opening of the second plurality of openings of the flexible mat, wherein the at least one plug is adapted to be removably engaged to one opening of one plurality of openings of one of the panels and one opening of the second plurality of openings, thereby removably securing the flexible mat on top of the continuous board surface when the board is in an expanded position.

12. The system recited in claim 1, wherein the at least one handle may include at least one of: a spherical portion extending from the retaining mechanism instead of the tubular body; and,a spherical portion extending from the tubular body.

13. The system recited in claim 1, wherein the tubular body of the at least one handle may be configured as one or more of: an L-shape; or,a T-shape.

14. A system comprising: a board including a plurality of identical panels rotatably coupled together, wherein the board is movable between an extended position wherein the panels are generally co-planar and together form a generally continuous board surface, and a collapsed position wherein the panels are arranged parallel to each other but are not co-planar, wherein each of the panels comprise a plurality of openings, the plurality of openings of each panel of the plurality of panels are substantially aligned when the board is in the collapsed position and form a plurality of passageways, each of the plurality of openings having a female retaining mechanism therein; and,at least one handle having a male retaining mechanism and a tubular body extending from the retaining mechanism, the at least one handle include a flange arranged opposite the male retaining mechanism, the male retaining mechanism arranged to removably secure within one of the female locking mechanisms, wherein the at least one handle is arranged to be removably inserted into one of the plurality of passageways when the board is in the collapsed position and rotatably locked therein via the male retaining mechanism and the female locking mechanism of one of the plurality of passageways, thereby maintaining the collapsed position by sandwiching the plurality of panels substantially between the male retaining mechanism and the flange.

15. The system recited in claim 14 further comprising a flexible mat having a second plurality of openings therein, the at least one handle is operatively arranged to be inserted within one opening of the second plurality of openings and the male retaining mechanism is operatively arranged to removably engage the female retaining mechanism of one of the openings of one of the plurality of openings of the panels, thereby positioning the openings in a substantially colinear manner with the flexible mat on top of the continuous board surface when the board is in an expanded position.

16. The system recited in claim 14, wherein: the female retaining mechanism having a pair of opening extensions; and,the male retaining mechanism having a pair of retaining tabs extending radially outward therefrom, wherein the at least one handle may be inserted into or removed from each of the plurality of openings when the pair of retaining tabs are substantially aligned within the pair of opening extensions.

17. The system recited in claim 15 further comprising at least one plug having: a second male retaining mechanism adapted to rotatably engage one female retaining mechanism; and,a dome portion extending from the second male retaining mechanism, the dome portion having a greater diameter than each opening of the second plurality of openings of the flexible mat, wherein the at least one plug is adapted to be removably engaged to one opening of one plurality of openings of one of the panels and one opening of the second plurality of openings, thereby removably securing the flexible mat on top of the continuous board surface when the board is in an expanded position.

18. The system recited in claim 14, wherein the plurality of generally flat panels comprises six panels.