Patent Application
20250135269
Embodiments described herein generally relate to mats and, more particularly but not exclusively, to exercise mats and related components.
Exercise cushions or mats have become a common piece of equipment for a variety of exercises. These exercises may include, but are not limited to Yoga, Pilates, stretching, martial arts, circuit training, Tai Chi, high-intensity interval training (HIIT), or the like.
Existing exercise cushions or mats are typically formed as a single piece of material, which does not offer much structural support or stability for the user or the mat. Additionally, these existing, single-piece cushions or mats generally do not provide the user with an exciting user experience.
A need exists, therefore, for improved mats and methods of manufacturing the same.
This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description section. This summary is not intended to identify or exclude key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.
According to one aspect, embodiments relate to a mat. The mat includes a first mat portion; and at least one support structure including a first attachment portion configured to operably connect with the first mat portion, a first side to support a user, a second side opposite the first side and configured to be in operable contact with a surface separate from the mat, wherein the second side includes one or more portions that define at least one groove to enable the support structure to be in a rolled configuration with the first mat portion.
In some embodiments, the first attachment portion includes an attachment surface to operably connect the first mat portion.
In some embodiments, the first side includes a plurality of ridges to support the user. In some embodiments, the first side is compressible during support of the user, and the second side provides structural support during support of the user.
In some embodiments, the first side includes a smooth portion to support the user.
In some embodiments, the surface is a floor portion.
In some embodiments, the mat further includes a hinged portion between the attachment portion and at least one of the first side or the second side to enable the support structure to be in the rolled configuration with the mat portion.
In some embodiments, the at least one support structure is formed from at least one of thermoplastic elastomer, thermoplastic polyurethane, polyurethane, silicon, urethane, rubber, natural rubber, or cork.
In some embodiments, the at least one support structure and the first mat portion are operably connected via at least one of stitching, an adhesive, hook and loop fasteners, a mechanical attachment mechanism, magnets, or rivets.
In some embodiments, the first side of the support structure is shaped as an arch.
In some embodiments, the at least one support structure further comprises at least one gripping element configured with the second side to removably secure the support structure to the surface.
In some embodiments, the second side includes a plurality of portions that define a plurality of grooves between each of the portions to enable the support structure to be in the rolled configuration with the mat portion.
In some embodiments, the mat further includes a second mat portion, wherein the at least one support structure further includes a second attachment portion configured to operably connect with the second mat portion.
In some embodiments, the mat further includes at least a second support structure including an attachment portion configured to operably connect with the first mat portion, a first side to support the user, and a second side opposite the first side and configured to be in operable contact with the surface, wherein the second side includes one or more portions that define at least one groove to enable the second support structure to be in a rolled configuration with the first mat portion and the first support structure.
According to another aspect, embodiments relate to a support structure for a user. The support structure includes an attachment portion configured to operably connect with a mat portion, a first side comprising an arched surface to support the user, and a second side opposite the first portion and including one or more portions that define at least one groove to enable the support structure to be in a rolled configuration.
In some embodiments, the attachment portion includes an attachment surface to operably connect with the mat portion.
In some embodiments, the support structure is formed from at least one of thermoplastic elastomer, thermoplastic polyurethane, polyurethane, silicon, urethane, rubber, natural rubber, or cork.
In some embodiments, the support structure further includes a hinged portion to create a fold point between the attachment portion and the first side or between the attachment portion and the second side.
In some embodiments, the mat further includes a second attachment portion to operably connect the support structure with a second mat portion.
In some embodiments, the mat further includes at least one gripping element configured with the second side to removably secure the support structure to a floor portion.
Non-limiting and non-exhaustive embodiments of the invention are described with reference to the following figures, wherein like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the various views unless otherwise specified.
Various embodiments are described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof, and which show specific exemplary embodiments. However, the concepts of the present disclosure may be implemented in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided as part of a thorough and complete disclosure, to fully convey the scope of the concepts, techniques and implementations of the present disclosure to those skilled in the art.
Reference in the specification to “one embodiment” or to “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiments is included in at least one example implementation or technique in accordance with the present disclosure. The appearances of the phrase “in one embodiment” in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment.
In addition, the language used in the specification has been principally selected for readability and instructional purposes and may not have been selected to delineate or circumscribe the disclosed subject matter. Accordingly, the present disclosure is intended to be illustrative, and not limiting, of the scope of the concepts discussed herein.
As discussed above, existing exercise mats are typically formed from a single piece of flat material. Even though these cushions may vary in thickness, material, texture, etc., they generally do not provide an exciting user experience. Additionally, and as stated previously, existing single-piece mats do not provide much support or stability for the user. For example, the support provided by a mat may be limited by the material and thickness of the mat, and may further diminish after repeated use.
Some existing mats include supports or cushions that are strategically positioned on the mat. These cushions may require a separate cover portion to receive or otherwise hold the cushions, or the cushions may be integrated with the mat. However, positioning the supports on the mat increases the volumetric footprint of the mat, and makes it difficult to fold or otherwise roll the mat for transport or storage.
The embodiments described herein provide novel mats and related components, as well as methods for manufacturing the same. The mats in accordance with the described embodiments include one or more support structures that help support or otherwise stabilize a user. The support structure(s) may be operably positioned with respect to one or more mat portions so that a user may contact the support structures (e.g., with their hands, fingers, palms, elbows, back, neck, knees, feet, etc.) during use.
The support structure(s) may include one or more grooved or ridge portions. These portions not only provide comfort, stability, support, and an improved tactile experience for the user, but also allow a user to maneuver the mat into a rolled configuration.
In the context of the present application, “rolled configuration” may refer to a configuration in which the support structure(s) has a radius of curvature that increases at approximately the same rate as that of the mat portion(s). Additionally, the height, thickness, compressibility, etc., of the support structure(s) should be such that the mat can be rolled similarly to how a mat made of a single, uniform material would be rolled.
This is in contrast to existing mats, such as those with cushions directly attached to or integrated onto the mat. Although a user may technically fold or roll these mats to some degree, these cushions would prevent these existing mats from being rolled as neatly and compact as if the existing mat was made from and included only a single, uniform material.
Although the present application largely discusses mats in the context of exercise equipment, the features of the described embodiments may be implemented in other applications. For example, and without limitation, other applications in which a user wants comfort or support while in various positions may benefit from the described embodiments. These may include, but are not limited to, applications in plumbing, carpentry, vehicle maintenance or repair, appliance repair, construction, acupressure massage, reflexology, meditation, activities associated with the practice of religion, physical therapy, podiatry, or the like. The above list is merely exemplary, and the features of the described embodiments may be implemented in other applications in addition to or in lieu of those listed above and described herein.
The first mat portion 102 may be formed from an any suitable material. For example, and without limitation, the first mat portion 102 may be formed from a thermoplastic elastomer (for simplicity, “TPE”), polyurethane (“PU”), thermoplastic polyurethane (“TPU”), natural rubber, rubber, foam, vinyl, polyester synthetic materials, PVC, thermoplastic elastomers, or some combination thereof. The second mat portion 104 may be similar to the first mat portion 102 in this regard.
The support structure 106 may be formed from one or more different types of materials. These may include, but are not limited to, silicon, rubber, natural rubber, TPE, PU, TPU, cork, or any other suitable material available now or invented hereafter. The support structure 106 may be formed from composites or combinations of various materials, including those listed above.
The first side 202 may have a tapered or raised shape, and may include a plurality of ridges 206 for receiving a portion of the user's body. For example, during use it may be common for a user to place their fingers, neck, hands, or feet on the ridges 206 or within the space between ridges 206. These ridges 206 may, among other benefits, also provide anti-slip functionality for a user during use. The ridges 206 may therefore offer advantages over a flat mat in preventing slippage such as if a user contacts the ridges 206 at an inclined angle, such as with their arms and hands while in a “downward dog” position, which is common in Yoga.
The height-to-width ratio of the ridges 206 may be chosen such that they feel compressible during use to provide comfort and a tactile experience for the user. The ridges 206 also allow for less material to be used, which results in material savings, reduced costs, and reduced weight.
The size or number of the ridges 206 may vary. In some embodiments, the size or number of the ridges 206 may be based on the size of the user. In some embodiments, the size or number of the ridges 206 may be based on the expected purpose(s) of the ridges 206 or the mat 100 in general. For example, it may be preferable to have a certain number of ridges 206 or to have ridges 206 of a certain size for one exercise, but preferable to have a different number of ridges 206 or have ridges 206 of a different size for another exercise.
Similarly, the size of the support structure 106 may vary. For example, wider support structures 106 may have more ridges 206 than smaller support structures 106.
The second side 204 may include a plurality of grooves 208, the space between which may contact a surface that is separate from the mat 100. For example, the space or structure between the grooves 208 may contact the floor or other type of ground surface.
The grooves 208 may be defined by a series of raised portions and a series of depressed portions, wherein a depressed portion is between each pair of raised portions. As discussed below, the depressed portions in effect create the grooves 208 or otherwise the negative space that may at least assist in allowing the support structure 106, and also the mat 100, to be maneuvered into a rolled configuration.
The portions that define the grooves 208 of
As seen in
The support structure 106 may be formed from a flexible material such that it can be in a rolled configuration—independently or while connected with a mat portion. For example, leg portions 306 that are opposite from each other across a negative space may move closer to each other or even contact each other while in a rolled configuration.
The size or number of the grooves 208 may vary. In some embodiments, the size or number of the grooves 208 may be based on the size of the user. In some embodiments, the size or number of the grooves 208 may be based on the expected purpose(s) of the support structure 106 or the mat 100 in general. For example, larger bottom portions 302 and shorter leg portions 306 may provide more structural support than smaller bottom portions 302 and longer leg portions 306.
Referring back to
In some embodiments, the support structures may be designed such that they can be stacked with each other. For example, a first support structure may be stacked on top of a second support structure. In this stacked configuration, the ridges of the second support structure may enter the grooves of the first structure or otherwise contact the portions that define the grooves of the first support structure.
Similar to the support structure 106, the support structure 108 may have a second surface 406 that is opposite the first surface 402 and configured to contact a surface that is separate from the mat 100 (e.g., the floor). The second surface 406 may include a plurality of grooves 408, which may be similar to the grooves 208 of
Similar to the support structure 106, the support structure 108 may include one or more attachment portions 410 to attach to or otherwise operably connect with the mat portion 102 and, as in
In some embodiments, such as in
The gripping elements 504 may include suction elements, self-adhesive rubber portions, or any other type of gripping elements whether available now or invented hereafter as long as the features of the described embodiments may be accomplished. The number, placement, shape, and size of the gripping elements 504 may vary, and may depend on the intended use of the support structure 500 or a mat in general.
The support structure 600 may also include a hinged portion 608 to at least enhance the flexibility of the support structure 600. The hinged portion 608 may be characterized by a reduced thickness in material in the area adjacent to an attachment portion (not shown in
Mat portion(s) may be connected to a support structure in a variety of ways.
In the embodiment shown in
In some embodiments, the mat portion 700 may cover the entirety of the attachment portion 704. In some embodiments, the mat portion 700 may cover only a portion of the attachment portion 704.
Depending on the connection means used, the mat portion 700 and the support structure 702 may be removably secured with each other. For example, in the case non- permanent or semi-permanent connection means such as of hook-and-loop fasteners, magnet, or rivets, a user may attach different types of support structures to a mat portion 700 at different times.
As discussed previously, the aforementioned grooves and ridges allow the support structures and mat portions to be maneuvered into a rolled configuration. This can be particularly useful for exercise mats, as users often carry their mats to and from studios, gyms, parks, or other types of fitness areas. As exercise mats can be over 10 ft2, it is impractical for users to carry them in an “open” or unrolled or unfolded position. Accordingly, users may roll their mats to reduce the overall volumetric footprint of the mat during transport and for storage.
This is opposed to existing equipment, in which padding or cushions are placed directly on the mat. These additional pads or cushions prevent the mat from being rolled into a compact, rolled orientation or configuration that a user may expect.
Although
For example,
As discussed previously, this is opposed to existing mats, such as those with cushions directly attached to or on the mat. Although a user could fold or roll these mats to an extent, these cushions would prevent these existing mats from being rolled as neatly and compact as if the existing mat was made from and included only a single, uniform material.
Users of mats such practitioners of mat exercises are used to rolling a mat for transport and storage. The mats in accordance with the described embodiments provide one or more support structures as described herein to be operably connected to the mat and allow the user to roll their mat in the way they are accustomed.
The support structure(s) described herein may be manufactured in a variety of ways. For example, in some embodiments, the support structure(s) may be manufactured via injection mold-based techniques.
Although the present application discusses different types of support structures and support structures with different features, the support structures described herein may be interchangeable with each other. For example, the support structures of
The methods, systems, and devices discussed above are examples. Various configurations may omit, substitute, or add various procedures or components as appropriate. For instance, in alternative configurations, the methods may be performed in an order different from that described, and that various steps may be added, omitted, or combined. Also, features described with respect to certain configurations may be combined in various other configurations. Different aspects and elements of the configurations may be combined in a similar manner. Also, technology evolves and, thus, many of the elements are examples and do not limit the scope of the disclosure or claims.
A statement that a value exceeds (or is more than) a first threshold value is equivalent to a statement that the value meets or exceeds a second threshold value that is slightly greater than the first threshold value, e.g., the second threshold value being one value higher than the first threshold value in the resolution of a relevant system. A statement that a value is less than (or is within) a first threshold value is equivalent to a statement that the value is less than or equal to a second threshold value that is slightly lower than the first threshold value, e.g., the second threshold value being one value lower than the first threshold value in the resolution of the relevant system.
Specific details are given in the description to provide a thorough understanding of example configurations (including implementations). However, configurations may be practiced without these specific details. This description provides example configurations only, and does not limit the scope, applicability, or configurations of the claims. Rather, the preceding description of the configurations will provide those skilled in the art with an enabling description for implementing described techniques. Various changes may be made in the function and arrangement of elements without departing from the spirit or scope of the disclosure.
Having described several example configurations, various modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents may be used without departing from the spirit of the disclosure. For example, the above elements may be components of a larger system, wherein other rules may take precedence over or otherwise modify the application of various implementations or techniques of the present disclosure. Also, a number of steps may be undertaken before, during, or after the above elements are considered.
Having been provided with the description and illustration of the present application, one skilled in the art may envision variations, modifications, and alternate embodiments falling within the general inventive concept discussed in this application that do not depart from the scope of the following claims.
The present application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. provisional application no. 63/399,176, filed on Aug. 18, 2022, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated by reference as if set forth in its entirety herein.
| Filing Document | Filing Date | Country | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCT/US2023/030525 | 8/18/2023 | WO |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 63399176 | Aug 2022 | US |
