WO2025163551A1

WO2025163551A1 - Bodyweight support interface apparatus and related methods

Info

Publication number: WO2025163551A1
Application number: PCT/IB2025/051024
Authority: WO
Inventors: Yuval BRODSKY; Anton SHLAFMAN; Amir GEFEN; Omri KAUFMAN; Alexey RUBINCHIK
Original assignee: Newton Vr Ltd
Current assignee: Newton Vr Ltd
Priority date: 2024-01-30
Filing date: 2025-01-30
Publication date: 2025-08-07
Anticipated expiration: 2026-07-30

Abstract

A bodyweight support interface apparatus has a circular ring assembly that provides a continuous path. At least one carriage assembly communicates with the circular ring assembly and moves along the continuous path. A user support arrangement is rotatably mounted to the circular ring assembly via the at least one carriage assembly, and supports a user at an interior portion of the circular ring assembly. In an alternative configuration, the at least one carriage assembly is fixed to a base structure and provides at least part of a continuous circular path of movement. The circular ring assembly has a central axis and communicates with the at least one carriage assembly, and moves along the circular path of movement so as to rotate about the central axis.

Description

APPLICATION FOR PATENT

TITLE

Bodyweight Support Interface Apparatus and Related Methods

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority from US Provisional Patent Application No. 63/626,644, filed January 30, 2024, whose disclosure is incorporated by reference in its entirety herein. TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to relates to a bodyweight support interface apparatus designed to facilitate a wide range of physical activities while ensuring user comfort and safety. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

In various fields, such as fields of physical rehabilitation, patient transport, simulation, gaming, training, and fitness, there is a growing demand for equipment that can support a wide range of body movements while ensuring user safety and comfort. Traditional support systems often limit user range of motion or interfere with natural movement patterns, which can be a significant drawback for users who require flexibility in their activities. This is particularly important for individuals undergoing physical therapy, athletes in training, or users engaged in any activities that require dynamic movement and balance. The challenge lies in designing a support system that not only provides the necessary structural integrity to handle substantial forces but also allows for seamless integration into various physical activities.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure provides a bodyweight support interface apparatus and related methods.

Aspects of the present disclosure include an apparatus and methods for a bodyweight support interface, which can be used to advantage with other devices and systems to provide support of a (human) user’s bodyweight. In certain embodiments, the apparatus includes a circular ring structure, a carriage arrangement that is configured to move along a path of the circular ring structure, and a user support arrangement rotatably mounted to the circular ring structure via the carriage arrangement. In other embodiments, the circular ring structure is configured to rotate along a path defined by the carriage arrangement, and the user support arrangement is rotatably mounted to the carriage arrangement via the circular ring structure. The disclosed apparatus may be used to advantage in conjunction with active or passive bodyweight support systems, or other types of systems or devices for which user bodyweight support is required or desired. As will be detailed below, the apparatus according to the embodiments of the present disclosure include numerous unique features, previously not available with existing systems, allowing for substantially improved functionality and performance. It will be appreciated that the combination of many of such features is challenging and non-trivial, and that part of the uniqueness of the apparatus according to the disclosed embodiments lies in creating an apparatus that allows many of these features to coexist simultaneously, with substantially contradicting requirements. Some of the unique features of the disclosed apparatus include, but are not limited to the following: a) Lack of overhead structure, or structural elements above the user’s torso. This feature provides a substantially improved user experience, and allows greater freedom of movement by the user when using the apparatus than in conventional devices having structures that extend above the torso and/or are overhead, b) Unlimited and unrestricted 360° rotation about the user’s yaw axis. Within the context of this document, unlimited and unrestricted rotation generally means that the user may infinitely continue to yaw in a single direction (e.g., clockwise and/or counter clockwise), or alternate directions as frequently as desired, and is not limited in any way by the apparatus in terms of the number of full (complete) rotations in any direction, c) Strapless user support arrangement. Many conventional bodyweight support interface solutions employ harnesses or similar devices, with adjustable straps that need to be fitted to accommodate the user. These are notoriously cumbersome and time-consuming to adjust, and often result in imprecise sizing. The disclosed apparatus provides a user support arrangement that is entirely strapless, for unprecedented ease of use, convenience, and comfort of the user and operator, d) Rapid ingress to and egress from the apparatus (and particularly the user support arrangement). The unique structure of the apparatus allows users to ingress the apparatus and assume a working configuration, in some cases in as little as five seconds. Egress from the apparatus on a similar time scale is also enabled by the unique structure of the apparatus. This rapid ingress and egress is a dramatic improvement over existing solutions, e) Rapid and seamless configuration change between multiple modes (configurations) of operation, including directionally locked in any direction and freely rotating modes, without requiring user egress from the apparatus to change modes. The ability to lock the apparatus in a single direction, and from there to allow for free rotation in unlimited and unrestricted 360° of yaw is non-trivial and unprecedented, f) Lack of interference by the apparatus components with normal human movement patterns and activities. On the one hand, the apparatus supports substantial forces applied to the apparatus by the user while remaining structurally sound, and on the other hand possesses a structure that does not interfere with activities performed by the user when using the apparatus. Such activities include, but are not limited to walking, running, squatting, jumping, dancing, kicking, throwing, stretching, training, balance exercising, and a wide variety of other activities.

According to the teachings of an embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a bodyweight support interface apparatus. The bodyweight support interface apparatus comprises: a circular ring assembly providing a continuous path; at least one carriage assembly in communication with the circular ring assembly and configured to move along the continuous path; and a user support arrangement rotatably mounted to the circular ring assembly via the at least one carriage assembly and configured to support a user at an interior portion of the circular ring assembly.

Optionally, the circular ring assembly includes a plurality of members, at least one member of the plurality of members is removable to create a discontinuity in the path that provides at least one of entry to or exit from the interior portion of the circular ring assembly.

Optionally, the bodyweight support interface apparatus further comprises: a component movement-limiting arrangement that comprises: a first locking mechanism configured to lock the at least one member in a full circular configuration when the at least one carriage assembly is configured for free rotation, thereby preventing the at least one carriage assembly from disengaging with the circular ring assembly, and a second locking mechanism configured to lock the at least one carriage assembly in a configuration that limits movement of the at least one carriage assembly along the circular ring assembly, such that the at least one carriage assembly is prevented from reaching an area of the at least one member, and engaging the second locking mechanism allows disengagement of the first locking mechanism, enabling removal of the at least one member only when the at least one carriage assembly is secured and prevented from disengaging with the circular ring assembly.

Optionally, the bodyweight support interface apparatus further comprises: a component movement-limiting arrangement that comprises a stopping mechanism configured to limit movement of the at least one carriage assembly along the circular ring assembly, such that the at least one carriage assembly is prevented from reaching an area of the at least one member, and removal of the at least one member automatically engages the stopping mechanism.

Optionally, the bodyweight support interface apparatus further comprises: a stowage arrangement having at least one component coupled to the circular ring assembly for stowing the at least one member when the at least one member is removed to create the discontinuity such that the at least one member remains attached to the bodyweight support interface apparatus when the at least one member is not in use.

Optionally, the bodyweight support interface apparatus further comprises: a locking mechanism configured to lock the at least one carriage assembly at a position along the circular ring assembly, and to allow controlled disengagement of the at least one carriage assembly from the circular ring assembly.

Optionally, the user support arrangement comprises: a substantially horizontal support, a substantially vertical support, a first support device in communication with the substantially horizontal support and configured to interact with a user’s body, a configuration change mechanism configured to allow for the first support device to change between a first configuration and a second configuration, and a second support device in communication with the substantially vertical support and shaped to interface with the user’s lower torso and maintain the user’s position on the first support device.

Optionally, the first support device is a seat-like structure.

Optionally, the second support device is a cushioned support.

Optionally, the circular ring assembly is configured to allow for 360-degree rotation of the user support arrangement about a yaw axis of a user received in the user support arrangement.

Optionally, the user support arrangement is configured to provide bodyweight support without interfering with normal human movement patterns.

There is also provided according to the teachings of an embodiment of the present disclosure a body weight support interface apparatus. The bodyweight support interface apparatus comprises: a circular ring assembly comprising a plurality of members forming a continuous path, at least one member of the plurality of members is removable to create a discontinuity in the path that provides at least one of entry to or exit from an interior portion of the circular ring assembly; at least one carriage assembly in communication with the circular ring assembly, configured to move along the path of the circular ring assembly; and a user support arrangement rotatably mounted to the circular ring assembly via the at least one carriage assembly.

There is also provided according to the teachings of an embodiment of the present disclosure a body weight support interface apparatus. The bodyweight support interface apparatus comprises: a circular ring assembly comprising a plurality of members forming a continuous path; at least one carriage assembly in communication with the circular ring assembly, configured to move along the path of the circular ring assembly; a locking mechanism configured to lock the at least one carriage assembly at a position along the circular ring assembly, and to allow controlled disengagement of the at least one carriage assembly from the circular ring assembly; and a user support arrangement in communication with the at least one carriage assembly.

There is also provided according to the teachings of an embodiment of the present disclosure a body weight support interface apparatus. The bodyweight support interface apparatus comprises: a circular ring assembly comprising a plurality of members forming a continuous path, at least one member of the plurality of members is removable to create a discontinuity in the path; at least one carriage assembly in communication with the circular ring assembly, configured to move along the path of the circular ring assembly; a first locking mechanism configured to lock the at least one member in a full circular configuration when the at least one carriage assembly is configured for free rotation, thereby preventing the at least one carriage assembly from disengaging with the circular ring assembly; a second locking mechanism configured to lock the at least one carriage assembly in a configuration that limits movement of the at least one carriage assembly along the circular ring assembly, such that the at least one carriage assembly is prevented from reaching an area of the at least one member, and engaging the second locking mechanism allows disengagement of the first locking mechanism, enabling removal of the at least one member only when the at least one carriage assembly is secured and prevented from disengaging with the circular ring assembly; and a user support arrangement in communication with the at least one carriage assembly.

There is also provided according to the teachings of an embodiment of the present disclosure a body weight support interface apparatus. The bodyweight support interface apparatus comprises: a circular ring assembly comprising a plurality of members forming a continuous path, at least one member of the plurality of members is removable to create a discontinuity in the path; at least one carriage assembly in communication with the circular ring assembly, configured to move along the path of the circular ring assembly; a stopping mechanism configured to engage so as to limit movement of the at least one carriage assembly along the circular ring assembly, such that the at least one carriage assembly is prevented from reaching an area of the at least one member, removal of the at least one member automatically engages the locking mechanism; and a user support arrangement in communication with the at least one carriage assembly.

There is also provided according to the teachings of an embodiment of the present disclosure a body weight support interface apparatus. The bodyweight support interface apparatus comprises: a circular ring assembly forming a continuous path; at least one carriage assembly in communication with the circular ring assembly, configured to move along the path of the circular ring assembly; and a user support arrangement in communication with the at least one carriage assembly. The user support arrangement comprises: a substantially horizontal support, a substantially vertical support, a first support device in communication with the substantially horizontal support and configured to interact with a user’s body, a configuration change mechanism configured to allow for the first support device to change between a first configuration and a second configuration, and a second support device in communication with the substantially vertical support and contoured to interface with the user’s lower torso and maintain the user’s position on the first support device. There is also provided according to the teachings of an embodiment of the present disclosure a body weight support interface apparatus. The bodyweight support interface apparatus comprises: a circular ring assembly comprising a plurality of members forming a continuous path; at least one carriage assembly in communication with the circular ring assembly and configured to move along the path of the circular ring assembly; and a user support arrangement rotatably mounted to the circular ring assembly via the at least one carriage assembly. The user support arrangement includes: a support assembly coupled to the at least one carriage assembly, and a user receiving arrangement coupled to the support assembly and having at least one user support device maintained at a geometric center of the circular ring assembly, the user receiving arrangement configured to interact with at least one of a user’s lower body or the user’s lower torso.

There is also provided according to the teachings of an embodiment of the present disclosure a body weight support interface apparatus. The bodyweight support interface apparatus comprises: at least one carriage assembly configured to be in fixed communication with a base structure and configured to provide at least part of a continuous circular path of movement; a circular ring assembly in communication with the at least one carriage assembly, the circular ring assembly having a central axis and configured to move along the circular path of movement so as to rotate about the central axis; and a user support arrangement rotatably mounted to the at least one carriage assembly via the circular ring assembly.

Optionally, a channel is formed at a bottom side of the circular ring assembly, and the channel is configured to accommodate the at least one carriage assembly.

Unless otherwise defined herein, all technical and/or scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the disclosure pertains. Although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein may be used in the practice or testing of embodiments of the disclosure, exemplary methods and/or materials are described below. In case of conflict, the patent specification, including definitions, will control. In addition, the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and are not intended to be necessarily limiting.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Some embodiments of the present disclosure are herein described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. With specific reference to the drawings in detail, it is stressed that the particulars shown are by way of example and for purposes of illustrative discussion of embodiments of the disclosure. In this regard, the description taken with the drawings makes apparent to those skilled in the art how embodiments of the disclosure may be practiced.

Attention is now directed to the drawings, where like reference numerals or characters indicate corresponding or like components. In the drawings: FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a bodyweight support interface apparatus constructed and operative according to a first set of embodiments of the present disclosure, having a circular ring assembly formed from at least two segments, a carriage arrangement having at least one carriage assembly configured to move along a path of the circular ring assembly, and a user support arrangement rotatably mounted to the circular ring assembly via the carriage arrangement;

FIG. 2 is a top view of the bodyweight support interface apparatus of FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 3 is a rear view of the bodyweight support interface apparatus of FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 4 is a side view of the bodyweight support interface apparatus of FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 5 is an isometric view similar to FIG. 1 , showing a discontinuity in the path of the circular ring assembly created by removal of a removable segment of the circular ring assembly;

FIG. 6 is an isometric view of the circular ring assembly of the bodyweight support interface apparatus of FIG. 1, taken from above the circular ring assembly;

FIG. 7 is an isometric view of the circular ring assembly of the bodyweight support interface apparatus of FIG. 1, taken from below the circular ring assembly;

FIG. 8 is an isometric view of a removable segment of the circular ring assembly of the bodyweight support interface apparatus of FIG. 1, taken from above the removable segment;

FIG. 9 is an isometric view of a removable segment of the circular ring assembly of the bodyweight support interface apparatus of FIG. 1, taken from below the removable segment;

FIG. 10A is an isometric view of a fixed segment of the circular ring assembly of the body weight support interface apparatus of FIG. 1, taken from above the fixed segment;

FIG. 10B is an enlarged exploded view of the region of FIG. 10A designated X;

FIG. 11 is an isometric view of a fixed segment of the circular ring assembly of the bodyweight support interface apparatus of FIG. 1, taken from below the fixed segment;

FIG. 12 is an isometric view of the carriage arrangement of the body weight support interface apparatus of FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 13 is a front view of a carriage assembly of the carriage arrangement of FIG. 12;

FIG. 14 is a side view of a carriage assembly of the carriage arrangement of FIG. 12;

FIG. 15 is an isometric view of a carriage assembly of the carriage arrangement of FIG. 12, taken from in front of the carriage assembly;

FIG. 16 is an isometric view of a carriage assembly of the carriage arrangement of FIG. 12, taken from behind the carriage assembly;

FIG. 17 is an isometric view of a carriage assembly of the carriage arrangement of FIG. 1 mounted to a fixed segment of a ring assembly of the bodyweight support interface apparatus of FIG. 1;

FIG. 18 is an isometric view similar to FIG. 17, but taken from a different viewing angle; FIG. 19 is an isometric view similar to FIG. 1, showing the carriage arrangement stopped along the path of the circular ring assembly by a locking mechanism;

FIG. 20 is an isometric view of the user support arrangement of the body weight support interface apparatus of FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 21 is a top view of the user support arrangement of the body weight support interface apparatus of FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 22 is a side view of the user support arrangement of the bodyweight support interface apparatus of FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 23 is a view similar to FIG. 22, showing a configuration change of a horizontal support and support device of the user support arrangement;

FIGS. 24A - 24D are top views of the bodyweight support interface apparatus of FIG. 1 in various non-limiting exemplary operational configurations;

FIG. 25 is an isometric view of a bodyweight support interface apparatus constructed and operative according to another set of embodiments of the present disclosure, having a carriage arrangement fixedly mounted to a mechanical interface, a circular ring assembly configured to move along a path defined by the carriage arrangement, and a user support arrangement rotatably mounted to the carriage arrangement via the circular ring assembly;

FIG. 26 is an isometric view of the carriage arrangement with the mechanical interface of the body weight support interface apparatus of FIG. 25;

FIG. 27 is an isometric view of the circular ring assembly and user support arrangement of the body weight support interface apparatus of FIG. 25;

FIG. 28A is a cross-sectional view of one of the carriage assemblies of the carriage arrangement of the body weight support interface apparatus of FIG. 25, showing the carriage assembly formed as a generally u-shaped member having a channel formed between spaced apart legs of the generally u-shaped member and configured to accommodate the circular ring assembly;

FIG. 28B is a cross-sectional view similar to FIG. 28A, but showing the circular ring member accommodated in the channel;

FIG. 29 is an isometric view of a bodyweight support interface apparatus constructed and operative according to yet another set of embodiments of the present disclosure, having a carriage arrangement fixedly mounted to a mechanical interface, a circular ring assembly configured to move along a path defined by the carriage arrangement and having a channel configured to accommodate carriage assemblies of the carriage arrangement, and a user support arrangement rotatably mounted to the carriage arrangement via the circular ring assembly;

FIG. 30 is an isometric view similar to FIG. 29, but taken from below the bodyweight support interface apparatus; FIG. 31 is an isometric view of the carriage arrangement with the mechanical interface of the body weight support interface apparatus of FIG. 29;

FIG. 32 is an isometric view of the circular ring assembly and user support arrangement of the apparatus of FIG. 29, taken from above the circular ring assembly;

FIG. 33 is an isometric view of the circular ring assembly and user support arrangement of the bodyweight support interface apparatus of FIG. 29, taken from below the circular ring assembly to show the channel in the circular ring assembly;

FIG. 34A is a cross-sectional view of one of the carriage assemblies of the carriage arrangement of the bodyweight support interface apparatus of FIG. 29, showing the carriage assembly formed as a projecting member;

FIG. 34B is a cross-sectional view showing the channel of the circular ring assembly as a generally inverted u-shape and an engagement portion of one of the carriage assemblies accommodated; and

FIG. 35 is an isometric view of the bodyweight support interface apparatus of FIG. 5 deployed as part of a gravity modification system, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a bodyweight support interface apparatus and related methods.

The principles of the apparatus and methods according to present disclosure may be better understood with reference to the drawings accompanying the description.

Embodiments of the present disclosure are applicable for use with various types of devices and systems for which user bodyweight support is required or desired. Examples (non-exhaustive) of such devices and systems, include, for example, clinical bodyweight support devices, gaming systems, personnel training systems, exercise systems, astronaut training systems, and patient walkers (with or without a user support structure). In one particular example, the body weight support interface apparatus according to the embodiments of the present disclosure can be used to provide bodyweight support in operation with a force applying unit of a gravity modification system that is configured to provide positive force or negative force to a user received in the bodyweight support interface apparatus. An example of such a force applying unit is described in detail in commonly owned US Patent No. 11,383,062, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety herein.

Before explaining at least one embodiment of the disclosure in detail, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not necessarily limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of the components and/or methods set forth in the following description and/or illustrated in the drawings and/or the examples. The embodiments of the disclosure are capable of other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in various ways. Initially, throughout this document, references are made to directions, such as, for example, left and right, top and bottom, upper and lower, front and back, and the like. These directional references are exemplary only, and are used only for ease of presentation and refer to the arbitrary orientations as illustrated in the drawings.

Referring now to the drawings, FIGS. 1 - 24D illustrate a bodyweight support interface apparatus (hereinafter “the apparatus”), generally designated 10, and various components thereof, constructed and operative according to a first set of non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure. Generally speaking, the apparatus 10 includes a circular ring assembly 100 that provides a continuous and approximately circular path (represented as circular arc double -headed arrow in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, and designated 102), a carriage arrangement 200 having at least one carriage assembly 202 that is configured to move along the path 102, and a user support arrangement 300 that is rotatably mounted to the circular ring assembly 100 via the carriage arrangement 200.

In certain embodiments, a mechanical interface 400, which may be in the form of a generally u-shaped support structure having a central bar 402 preferably integrally formed with side bars (legs) 404 to form u-like shape, may be provided as part of the apparatus 10 and may be connected to at least one portion of the circular ring assembly 100. The mechanical interface 400 can provide connection, for example via a connection member 403 located for example at a center portion of the central bar 402, between the apparatus 10 and another device / system, such as a clinical bodyweight support device, gravity modification system, gaming system, or other type of device / system for which the apparatus 10 according to the present disclosure is of suitable use. The mechanical interface 400 is designed and deployed so as to not interfere with the operation of the carriage arrangement 200 or any other major component of the apparatus 10 (e.g., user support arrangement 300, etc.). In other embodiments, the mechanical interface 400 may not be part of the apparatus 10, and instead may be part of the aforementioned other device or system with which the apparatus 10 of the present disclosure may operate.

As will become apparent from the discussion below, each of the components of the apparatus (including the mechanical interface 400) is constructed with structural integrity so as to support full transfer of force between the components, thereby ensuring the structural integrity of the entire apparatus.

As will become apparent from the following description, each of the circular ring assembly 100, the carriage arrangement 200, and the user support arrangement 300 has various unique features which contribute to the utility of the disclosed apparatus. Certain aspects of each of the circular ring assembly 100, the carriage arrangement 200, and the user support arrangement 300 are believed to be of independent utility in their own right. The structure and functionality of each of the circular ring assembly 100, the carriage arrangement 200, and the user support arrangement 300 will be described in detail below.

The structure and functionality (operation) of the circular ring assembly 100 will first be described, with continued reference to FIGS. 1 - 24D, and with particular reference to FIGS. 1 - 11. The circular ring assembly 100 is a ring structure, of approximately circular shape when viewed from above. The circular ring assembly 100 is dimensioned to be large enough so as to accommodate human users of different sizes at an interior portion (i.e., center region) 103 of the circular ring assembly 100. The circular ring assembly is a load bearing structure, making it suitable for supporting the bodyweight of a user received in the user support structure 300. Accordingly, the circular ring assembly 100 is constructed to have structural integrity so that the circular ring assembly 100 remains structurally sound throughout performance of all of its functions under nominal conditions as well as less favorable conditions.

According to certain embodiments, the structural integrity of the assembly 100 is provided at least in part by the materials from the circular ring assembly 100 is constructed. For example, materials such as metals, plastics, polymers, woods, other natural or synthetic materials used alone or in combination, or derivatives of such materials, have been found to be particular suitable for providing the circular ring assembly 100 with requisite structural integrity.

In other embodiments, the structural integrity of the assembly 100 is provided at least in part by the cross-sectional shape of the circular ring assembly 100. The cross-sectional shape may take many forms, including, but not limited to, circular, square, rectangular, triangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, and any other regular or irregular polygon. According to certain embodiments, the circular ring assembly 100 can be provided with a regular or irregular cross-sectional shape. Advantageously, irregular cross-sectional shapes provide, for example, reduced mass while maintaining structural integrity, and accommodation of the carriage arrangement 200 to constrain the movement of the at least carriage assembly 202 about the circular path 102 of the circular ring assembly 100 in only the circular axis, and not about the cross section of the circular ring assembly 100. In certain embodiments, the cross-section of the circular ring assembly 100 may may be hollow or at least partially filled. For example, the cross-section of the circular ring assembly 100 may have an internal structure such as, for example, lattice, honeycomb, etc., which provides the circular ring assembly 100 with strength and stiffness, while also reducing its mass.

According to certain embodiments, the circular ring assembly 100 is formed from a plurality of members (also referred to herein as “segments”) 104, 106 that are interfaced (coupled) together to form the circular ring structure and continuous path 102, which is a circular path that traverses along the circumference of a circle traced out by the circular ring structure 100. At least one of the members 104 of the circular ring assembly 100 is a fixed member that is configured to be fixedly connected to a base structure (which in the illustrated example is the mechanical interface 400), and at least one of the members 106 of the circular ring assembly 100 is a removable member. The removable member 106 is removable from the circular ring assembly 100 to create a discontinuity (also referred to as “opening”) in the path 102. The discontinuity in the path is represented in FIG. 5 as circular arc double-headed dashed arrow designated 116. The discontinuity 116 provides a clear avenue which allows entry (by a user) into the interior portion 103 of the circular ring assembly 100 and/or exit (by the user) from the interior portion 103. The interior portion 103 is part of an interior portion / region of a cylindrical region defined by the circumference of the circular ring assembly 100. The discontinuity 116 also allows for user ingress to and/or egress from the user support arrangement 300, which as will be discussed has components that may be located in the interior portion of the cylindrical region, including at or approximately at the geometric center of the circular ring assembly 100.

Parenthetically, the fixed member 104 can be connected to the mechanical interface 400 using a mechanical connection, for example fasteners or other suitable connection means. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the side legs 404 of the mechanical interface 400 includes a mechanical connection 406 (for example at a terminal end 405 of the side leg 404), and the fixed member 104 is attached at two portions 108 thereof to the mechanical connections 406. The mechanical connection 406 enables a strong and tight connection, does not interfere with movement of the carriage arrangement 200, and prevents movement of the circular ring assembly 100 (in particular pitching movements) with respect to the legs 404. In one embodiment, the portions 108 are located at positions at or near 90° and 270° of the circular ring assembly 100 (where 0° is forward facing). The mechanical interface 400 is of sound structural integrity to enable transfer of all forces between the apparatus 10 and the device / system to which the apparatus is attached 10 (via mechanical interface 400).

It is noted that although the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 1 - 24D show only a pair of members 104 and 106, the circular ring assembly 100 may include any suitable number of members that can be interfaced together to form a ring having continuous path 102. Furthermore, in embodiments in which the circular ring assembly 100 includes more than two members, one or more of the members may be removable, and one or more of the members may be a fixed member.

The opening 116 in the path 102 may be created by removing a singular removable segment 106, or multiple removable segments. In one embodiment, the total angular dimension of the removable segment(s) is preferably around 120°, which provides an opening 116 that is typically wide enough to accommodate human users of different sizes. In certain embodiments, the total angular dimension is limited to at most 170°, but in other embodiments, larger angular dimension (above 170° is achievable).

With particular reference to FIGS. 6 - 11, connection (interfacing) between the removable segment(s) 106 and the fixed segment(s) 104 is provided by a connection mechanism 110. According to one non-limiting embodiment, the connection mechanism 110 is structurally robust enough to support the forces applied on the circular ring assembly 100 while maintaining structural integrity, and allows for a tight seam (low tolerance) between the removable segment(s) 106 and the fixed segment(s) 104. The connection mechanism 110 may be attached to the fixed segment 104 and/or the removable segment(s) 106, and does not interfere with the movement of the at least one carriage assembly 202, or cause any part of the circular ring assembly 100 to hinder or interfere with the movement of the at least one carriage assembly 202. In general, the removable segment(s) 106 and/or the fixed segment(s) 104 are fitted with correspondingly configured structures that define the connection mechanism 110, which allow for the mating (rigid and removable interconnection) between the removable segment(s) 106 and/or the fixed segment(s) 104.

In one set of implementations according to the non-limiting embodiment illustrated in the drawings, the connection mechanism 110 includes a pair of structural elements 112 and at least one channel 114. The channel(s) 114 is/are typically formed along a bottom side 140r of the removable segment 106 (the bottom side 140r being the removable segment portion of a bottom side 140 (i.e., underside) of the circular ring assembly 100) and at least partially extend inward from ends 107 of the removable segment 106. In the illustrated embodiment, a single channel 114 is provided, which extends along the entire bottom side 140r between the two ends 107. The structural elements 112 extend outward from ends 105 of the fixed segment 104, and may typically be seated in a channel 119 formed at the bottom side 140f of the fixed segment 104 (the bottom side 140f being the fixed segment portion of the bottom side 140). The structural elements 112 (which may be pin-like structures) are configured to be inserted and fastened into the channel(s) 114, such that corresponding ends 105 and 107 of the segments 104 and 106 are joined together when the segments 104 and 106 are interfaced together, and such that the structural elements 112 protrude partially into the void (discontinuity 116) left when the removable segment 106 is removed. This type of connection mechanism 110 allows the removable segment 106 to be placed upon and supported by the structural elements 112 for coupling together the segments 104 and 106. It is noted that although the illustrated embodiment shows a single channel and a pair of correspondingly configured structural elements, in certain embodiments a pair of channels with a corresponding pair of structural elements may be provided, or alternatively a single channel and a single structural element may be provided at a single end of the segments. It will be appreciated that the connection mechanism 110 described above and illustrated in the drawings is just one example of a non-limiting implementation of a connection mechanism that provides connection between the removable segment(s) 106 and/or the fixed segment(s) 104. For example, in certain embodiments the channel may be provided on the removable segment 106 and the structural elements may be provided on the fixed segment 104. Moreover, the structural elements 112, although illustrated as being located at the ends of the segment, can quite easily be located at the top, bottom, sides, or anywhere else on the segment. In addition, the structural elements, although illustrated as being pin-like structures, can be any suitable structural element, including, for example, a flange, a support, a bracket, a segment support, a mating structure, and the like. It is also noted that in certain embodiments the connection mechanism 110 may be implemented as one or more set of interlocking teeth provided at the removable segment 106 and the fixed segment 104.

According to certain embodiments, a segment locking mechanism 118 is provided at each interface between the removable segment(s) 106 and the ends 105 of the fixed segment 104. The locking mechanisms 118 are configured to assume a locked position so as to lock the removable member(s) 106 to the adjacent member 104 such that the ring assembly 100 assumes a full circular configuration (complete circle). When the segment locking mechanism(s) 118 is/are engaged, the removable segment(s) is/are prevented from being removed from the circular ring assembly 100. The locking mechanisms 118 may be operated independently, or simultaneously. The locking mechanisms 118 provide numerous functions, and advantageously prevent accidental or erroneous removal of the removable segment(s) 106 from the circular ring assembly 100 when such removal is not desired. The locking mechanism 118 is further configured to assume an unlocked (disengaged) position to enable removal of the removable member(s) 106. Preferably, disengagement (unlocking, release) of the locking mechanism 118 is initiated by an intentional (forceful) action by an operator of the apparatus 10. Accordingly, the locking mechanism 118 is preferably nominally in the locked position in a resting state when the ring segments 104 and 106 are mated, and requires the input of force to move the locking mechanism 118 to the unlocked position. Furthermore, the locking mechanism 118 is configured such that when the removable segment 106 is removed, the locking mechanism 118 is nominally configured to receive the removable segment 106. Generally speaking, the locking mechanism 118 can be on the fixed segment 104 and/or the removable segment 106 (or any other segments of the circular ring assembly 100).

The following paragraphs describe the locking mechanism 118 according to one set of implementations according to a non-limiting embodiment in which the locking mechanism 118 includes at least one flange 120. Each flange 120 is mounted to a hinge 122 in the fixed segment 104, and sits in a channel 121 formed at the internal rim 136f of the fixed segment 104 proximate the end 105. Each flange 120 protrudes into part of the area occupied by the removable segment(s) 106, and may be spring-loaded (resiliently biased) so that the flange 120 naturally biases into the closed (locked) position so as to engage with a corresponding channel 132 formed at the internal rim 136r of the removable segment 106 proximate at least one of the ends 107. Each flange 120 may be forced into an open (unlocked) position by passing a pin 124 (or similar structure) through an opening 125 in the fixed segment 104 that is aligned with the flanges 120. The force applied on the flange 120 by the pin 124 (through the opening 125) provides a resistive force to the spring and pushes the flange 120 away from the removable segment(s) 106 (out of the channels 132), which enables removal or replacement of the removable member(s) 106. In one embodiment, the pin 124 can also be used as part of a carriage locking mechanism 214 (FIG. 5, FIG. 6, FIG. 14, and FIG. 15) that locks the at least one carriage assembly 202 in place, preventing movement of the carriage arrangement 200 along the path 102, such that each carriage assembly 202 is prevented from reaching an area of the removable member(s) 106 and more particularly is prevented from approaching the open ends 105 of the fixed segment 104.

The locking mechanism 118 provides enhanced safety features of the apparatus 10. For example, in certain embodiments, the locking mechanism 118 is configured to lock the removable member(s) 106 in a full circular configuration when the carriage assembly 202 is configured for free rotation, thereby preventing the carriage assembly 202 from disengaging with the circular ring assembly 100. Further details of the safety advantages provided by the locking mechanism (as well as other locking mechanisms of the present disclosure), will be provided in subsequent sections of this document.

In other embodiments, the locking mechanism 118 may be implemented as one or more latch in the removable segment 106 or the fixed segment 104 with a correspondingly configured notch in the fixed segment 104 or the removable segment 106. The latch may be resiliently biased, for example spring-loaded, requiring application of force to release the latch from the notch. Furthermore, the locking mechanism 118 may, in certain embodiments, be included on only one side (i.e., at one of the interfaces between the removable segment 106 and the fixed segment 104). In other embodiments, the locking mechanism 118 is implement as a non-positive locking mechanism.

According to certain embodiments, the fixed segment 104 is provided with a carriage stopping mechanism 126 proximate to at least one of the ends 105 (and preferably both of the ends 105), as illustrated in FIG. 10A and FIG. 10B. The carriage stopping mechanism 126 limits movement of the carriage assembly 202 along the path 102 of the circular ring assembly 100, thereby preventing each carriage assembly 202 from reaching an area of the removable member(s) 106 and more particularly from moving past the ends 105 of the fixed segment 104 when the removable segment(s) 106 is/are removed. The carriage stopping mechanism 126 provides additional safety features by preventing each carriage assembly 202 from losing communication (disengaging) with the circular ring assembly 100 (i.e., from disengaging and falling off from the circular ring assembly 100), which could potentially cause the user to fall, lose balance, or be subjected to undesirable forces which may cause discomfort, injury, or death. In one implementation according to certain embodiments, the carriage stopping mechanism 126 includes a stopper 128 (which can be a pin or pin-like structure) that protrudes out from the circular ring structure 100 toward the top (i.e., upper) side (i.e., surface) 138 of the circular ring assembly 100, which creates an impediment (blockage) in the free-rotation path of the carriage assembly 202. The carriage stopping mechanism 126 (stopper 128) is preferably retractable when the removable segment(s) 106 is/are in replaced to form the complete circle.

In certain embodiments, the carriage stopping mechanism 126 is automatically retracted (disengaged) when the removable segment(s) 106 is/are replaced to form the complete circle, and automatically engages (come into an active configuration) when the removable segment(s) 106 is/are removed to create the discontinuity 116. In one set of implementations according to such embodiments, the automatic actions can be achieved by embedding the stopper 128 in a longitudinal channel 130 and resiliently biasing the stopper 128, for example via a spring 133. The channel 130 is formed in the fixed segment 104 proximate the end 105, and partially extends into the fixed segment 104 from the top side 138f of the fixed segment 104 (the top side 138f being the fixed segment portion of the top side 138). The resilient bias of the stopper 128 causes the stopper 128 to protrude (at least partially extend) out of a terminating hole 131 of the channel 130 located on the top side 138f of the fixed segment 104. The stopper 128 may include a transverse pin 129 so that the stopper 128 and the transverse pin 129 form an approximate L-shape. A notch 147 may be provided at one of the ends 107. The notch 147 may be correspondingly configured with the transverse pin 129 so that the notch and the stopper 128 communicate (interface) when the removable segment(s) 106 is/are replaced to complete the circle. Replacement of the removable segment 106 to complete the circle causes the transverse pin 129 to engage with the notch so that the weight of the removable segment 106 presses down on the transverse pin 129, which provides a resistive force to the spring thereby causing the stopper 128 to be pulled down into the channel 130 of the circular ring assembly 100 such that the top of the stopper 128 is flush with the top side 138f or sits below the top side 138f inside of the channel 130, thereby allowing free rotation of the carriage assembly 202. Conversely, when the removable segment(s) 106 is/are removed, the resilient bias of the stopper 128 (e.g., the spring 133) forces the stopper to extend out of the channel 130 toward the top side 138f such that the top part of the pin 128 is above the top side 138f, thereby preventing the carriage assemblies 202 from reaching the area of the circular ring assembly 100 having the discontinuity 116 and thus ensuring that the carriage assemblies 202 cannot become disengaged and fall off from the circular ring assembly 100. As a byproduct, the full free rotation path (360-degree rotation) of the carriage assemblies 202 (and the entire carriage arrangement 200) is impeded.

FIG. 19 shows a configuration of one of the stopping mechanisms 126, that is proximate to one of the carriage assemblies 202, in an active (locked, extended) state whereby the stopper 128 of the stopping mechanism 126 extends out of the terminating hole 131 to impede the free- rotation path of the carriage arrangement 200. It is noted that the configuration of FIG. 19 also shows the carriage assemblies 202 locked in position by a carriage locking mechanism 214 which further prevents free -rotation of the carriage arrangement 200 (the carriage locking mechanism 214 will be discussed in further below).

It will be appreciated that although the drawings show the stopper(s) 128 being configured to protrude from the top side 138f, this depiction is according to one particular non-limiting implementation. In general, the stopper(s) 128 may be configured to protrude from any side of the circular ring assembly 100, for example the bottom side 140, the external rim 134, or the internal rim 136. Moreover, although the description of the stopper(s) 128 above has pertained to actuation of the stopper(s) 128 via resilient biasing (for example via spring 133), other actuation means are contemplated herein, such as mechanical actuators, sensor-based actuators, and the like.

According to certain embodiments, engagement of the carriage stopping mechanism 126 simultaneously disengages the segment locking mechanism(s) 118, enabling removal of the removable segment(s) 106 only once the at least one carriage assembly 202 is secured and prevented from losing communication (disengaging) with the circular ring assembly 100. This may be achieved by interconnecting the stopper 128 of the carriage stopping mechanism 126 and the flange(s) 120 of the segment locking mechanism 118 so that extension of the stopper 128 out of the channel 130 simultaneously retracts the flange(s) 120 so as to disengage the segment locking mechanism(s) 118. The interconnection between the stopper 128 and the flange(s) 120 may be a direct connection, or may be provided by a mechanical linkage.

In certain embodiments, one or more sensors may be provided for sensing the position of the removable segment(s) 106 and the stopper 128, and the carriage stopping mechanism 126 may be operated by an actuator (manual, electronic, hydraulic, pneumatic, mechanical, or other) in response to the sensed position.

The structure and operation of the carriage arrangement 200 will now be described with continued reference to FIGS. 1 - 24D, with particular reference to FIGS. 1 - 5 and more particular reference to FIGS. 12 - 18. The carriage arrangement 200 includes at least one carriage assembly 202 configured to engage with a portion of the circular ring assembly 100 so as to move along the path 102. The at least one carriage assembly 202 is also connected (either directly or indirectly) to the user support arrangement 300.

In the illustrated embodiment, four carriage assemblies 202 (referred to interchangeably as “carriage structures”, “carriages”, “carrier structures”, “carriers”, “rider structures”, or “riders”) are employed, with the carriage assemblies 202 being paired off in two pairs of carriage assemblies 202 that may be communicatively coupled together via a mechanical coupling, such as a carriage connector plate 209 mechanically coupled (for example via mechanical fasteners such as screws, bolts, etc.) at opposite ends thereof to the carriage assemblies 202. The carriages 202 may be identical in structure, or may have minor differences in structure and/or function from carriage to carriage. It will be appreciated that the illustrated configuration of the carriage arrangement 200 is just one non-limiting exemplary configuration of a carriage arrangement. In principle, the carriage arrangement may employ any suitable number of carriage assemblies 202, depending on the construction and implementation of the apparatus. Furthermore, mechanically coupled carriage assemblies may, in certain contexts and configurations, be considered as a single carriage assembly. Thus, for example, in the illustrated embodiment, the carriage arrangement may be considered as having a pair of carriage assemblies, where each carriage assembly is formed from a pair of sub-assemblies. Furthermore, in certain contexts, the carriage arrangement 200 itself may be considered as a single carriage assembly composed of multiple sub-assemblies.

In the following description of the structure and operation of the carriage arrangement 200, reference is primarily made to only a single one of the carriage assemblies 202, but it should be understood that the description of the structure and function of the single carriage assembly 202 can be applied to all of the carriage assemblies of the carriage arrangement 202, unless expressly stated otherwise.

The carriage assembly 202 and the circular ring structure 100 have matching profiles, which ensures proper engagement of the carriage assembly 202 with the circular ring assembly 100, enabling the carriage assembly 202 to move along the path 102. Furthermore, in order to ensure smooth movement of the carriage assembly 202 along the path 102, the carriage assembly 202 has only a single degree of freedom, which is along the path 102 of the circular ring assembly 100. Specifically, the structure of the carriage assembly 202 prevents rotation of the carriage assembly 202 about the cross-section of the circular ring assembly 100. In other more accurate terms, the structure of the carriage assembly 202 prevents movement in five degrees of freedom (pitch, roll, yaw, up/down, left/right) with respect to the cross-section of the circular ring assembly 100, and allows only linear movement (forward/backward) along the curved path 102 of the circular ring assembly 100. The carriage assembly 202 is a load-bearing assembly, that is able to accommodate the forces between a user (received in the user support arrangement 300) and the circular ring assembly 100, including all forces that may be induced by various movements by the user.

According to certain embodiments, the carriage assembly 202 includes an inverted generally u-shaped member 204 having a pair of spaced apart legs 206 (which may be L-shaped) forming a channel 208 therebetween (FIG. 13). As shown in FIG. 17 and FIG. 18, the generally u- shaped member 204 is configured to straddle the circular ring assembly 100 such that interior sidewalls 210 (channel-facing sidewalls) of the legs 206 are in facing relation with portions of rims (external 134 and internal 136) of the circular ring assembly 100 and such that an interior sidewall 205 at an upper portion of the generally u-shaped member 204 is in facing relation with the top side 138 of the circular ring assembly 100, and such that sections of the circular ring assembly 100 pass through the channel 208 as the carriage assembly 202 moves along the path 102.

Movement of the carriage assembly 202 is enabled by a movement enabling mechanism 212, which enables the carriage assembly 202 to move (for example slide or glide) along the path 102 of the circular ring assembly 100. The movement enabling mechanism 212 is configured to move linearly along a curved path, so as to be able to follow the curved path 102 of the circular ring assembly 100. The movement enabling mechanism 212 preferably enables such movement under load, with minimal application of force by the user in the yaw direction (along the path 102). The movement enabling mechanism 212 can be implemented in various ways. In one implementation according to certain embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 12 - 13 and FIGS. 15 - 18, the movement enabling mechanism 212 is implemented as a set of one or more wheels 213. In the non-limiting embodiment illustrated in the drawings and as shown in FIG. 13, the set of wheels 213 may include a wheel 213 provided at a lower the region of the interior sidewall 210 of each of the legs 206, as well as one or more wheels 213 (two such wheels are shown in the drawings) provided at the interior sidewall 205 of the generally u-shaped member 204. The wheels 213 project slightly into the channel 208 such that the wheels 213 provided at the legs 206 ride along portions of the circular ring assembly 100 at or near the rims 134 and 136 and/or at or near the bottom side 140 of the circular ring assembly 100 (lower angulated portions 134a and 136a of the internal and external rim 134 and 136), and such that the wheel(s) provided at the interior sidewall 205 ride along the top side 138 of the circular ring assembly 100. In such an embodiment, the wheels 213 provided at the legs 206 may be angulated upwardly so that the wheels 213 engage with the lower angulated portions 134a and 136a of the internal and external rim 134 and 136 (FIG. 17 and FIG. 18). The upward angulation may be effectuated by wheel box elements 215 that provide attachment of the wheels 213 to the interior sidewalls 210, and which are angled upward relative to the planar interior sidewalls 210. Alternatively, the wheels may be deployed at upper regions of the legs 206 such that the wheels ride along portions of the circular ring assembly 100 at or near the top side (surface) 138 of the circular ring assembly 100. In such a configuration, the wheels may be angulated downward so as to engage with the upper portions of the internal and external rim 134 and 136.

In certain embodiments, the position of wheels 213 may be adjusted, to ensure a tight fit to the circular ring assembly 100 and to reduce unwanted movement of the carriage assembly 202 along undesired axes / directions. In one embodiment, adjustment can be achieved using a set screw or other similar adjustable mechanical fastener or mechanism.

It will be appreciated that although the illustrated embodiment shows the carriage assembly 202 as having a set of four wheels (one wheel at each leg of the generally u-shaped member, and two wheels on the upper portion of the generally u-shaped member), other embodiments are contemplated in which fewer than four wheels, or more than four wheels, are used. For example, a single wheel can be deployed on only one of the legs 206. In such a configuration, a low-friction buffer or rider may be deployed in the other leg to provide stability to the carriage assembly 202 during movement. As another example, one wheel may be provided at the lower region of each of the legs 206 (as shown in the drawings), and one wheel may be provided at the upper region of each of the legs 206 (as described in the alternative above). In such a configuration, the wheels in the upper and lower portions of each leg hug the circular ring assembly 100 from above and below.

Furthermore, other implementations of the movement enabling mechanism 212 are contemplated herein, including, but not limited to, low-friction internal surfaces of the generally u-shaped member 204 and/or low-friction external surfaces of the circular ring assembly 100 (e.g., Nylon, Teflon, etc.), sliders, tracks, balls, bearings, air bearings, or any type of track or mechanism accommodating the described movements. Moreover, each carriage assembly 202 of the carriage arrangement 200 may implement a different type of movement mechanism 212.

Although not shown in the drawings, in certain embodiments each carriage assembly 202 may be provided with a pair of grooves at the interior sidewalls 210 (a groove at each sidewall 210). An internal flange may extend circumferentially from the internal rim 134, and an external flange may extend circumferentially from the external rim 136. The grooves may extend along the entire length of the channel 208 in a direction parallel to the linear component of the path of movement of the carriage assembly 202, and the flanges are dimensioned to fit inside the grooves, to provide additional stability and support to the carriage assembly 202.

Although the carriage arrangement 200 illustrated in drawings includes four carriage assemblies 202 as part of the carriage arrangement 200, it should be apparent that any suitable number of carriage assemblies can be employed. The number of carriage assemblies may depend on various factors, including, for example, angular span of the removable segment 106 (and hence the angular span of the discontinuity 116), as will be discussed further below.

It will be appreciated that the carriage assemblies 202 illustrated in the drawings and described above as generally u-shaped members is just one example of a non-limiting construction of the carriage assemblies. In general, different constructions of the carriage assemblies 202 are contemplated herein, including, for example, constructions in which the carriage assemblies include chamfers at the corners (making the carriage assembly a five-sided shape and not necessarily generally u-shaped). It will be appreciated that any suitable construction of the carriage assemblies can be used. Furthermore, certain circular ring assembly profiles may be such that only a single set of wheels is needed, whereas other profiles may necessitate additional wheels. Accordingly, the movement enabling mechanisms of the carriage assemblies can be implemented in any geometry / configuration that, given a certain profile of the circular ring assembly, prevents movement in the five degrees of freedom mentioned above and only allows linear movement (forward/backward) along the curved path of the circular ring assembly.

As briefly mentioned above, one or more of the carriage assemblies 202 may be provided with a locking mechanism 214 that is configured to lock the carriage assembly 202 in place at a position or positions along the circular ring assembly 100. The locking mechanism 214 is preferably configured to lock the carriage assembly 202 in a configuration that limits movement of the carriage assembly 202 along the circular ring assembly, such that the carriage assembly 202 is prevented from reaching an area of the removable segment 106, and more particularly so that the carriage assemblies 202 are prevented from moving at all. The locking mechanism 214 is preferably also configured to release the carriage assembly 202 so as to provide controlled disengagement of the carriage assembly 202 from the circular ring assembly 100, where controlled disengagement refers to controlled unlocking from the circular ring assembly 100 to allow for controlled movement of the carriage arrangement 200 along the path 102. In preferred embodiments, when the locking mechanism 214 is engaged, the locking mechanism 118 is disengaged to allow for removal of the removable segment 106 (as will be discussed below). In one implementation according to certain embodiments, the locking mechanism 214 includes a pin (which may be a ball lock pin) 218 that is configured to be received in an opening (which may be a through hole or slot) 127 in the circular ring assembly 100 and an opening (which may be a through hole or slot) 216 in a part of one of the carriage assembly 202 (for example one of the legs 206). The two openings 127 and 216 are preferably arranged at the same height, and are of approximately the same dimension, so that the two openings 127 and 216 can be aligned and the pin 218 can be inserted through the opening 216 and into the opening 127. In certain embodiments, the circular ring assembly 100 may be provided with a plurality of openings 127 at different positions along the circular ring assembly 100 (which may be spaced apart circumferentially along the circular ring assembly 100) so that the pin 218 may lock the carriage assembly 202 at different discrete positions. In another embodiment, the locking mechanism 214 may be implemented as a brake mechanism configured to lock the carriage assembly 202 in position, for example by clamping to a portion of the circular ring assembly 100, thereby enabling locking at a continuum of positions along the circular ring assembly 100 (and not only at discrete positions). The brake mechanism is also preferably configured to controllably release to provide controlled disengagement of the carriage assembly 202 from the circular ring assembly 100. In embodiments in which the locking mechanism 214 is implemented as a brake mechanism, the circular ring assembly 100 maintains a uniform surface allowing for the actuation of the brake mechanism anywhere along the circular ring assembly 100, or only at specific locations if discrete locking positions are desired. In another embodiment, the locking mechanism 214 may be implemented as a ratcheting mechanism that enables locking of the carriage assembly 202 at discrete positions relative to the circular ring assembly 100.

As mentioned above, the pin 124 used to disengage the segment locking mechanism(s) 118 may double as the pin 218 used for the locking mechanism 214. The pin (218 / 124) may be connected to the carriage assembly 202 when not in use for locking (or unlocking) via a tether or cable of sufficient length to allow for comfortable operation of the locking mechanism(s), but preferably short enough in length to prevent the use of the locking mechanism(s) when the carriage assembly 202 is not in the desired locking position. The carriage assembly 202 may also contain a stowage option for the pin (218 / 124) when it is not in use, such that the pin does not interfere with the operation of the apparatus (as it would if it were dangling from a tether). In another example, as illustrated in FIGS. 1 - 4 and FIGS. 12 - 18, the stowage of the pin 218 may be effectuated, for example, via a through hole in one of the legs 206 that extends transversally to the extension direction of opening 216.

It will be appreciated that the locking mechanism 214 described above and illustrated in the drawings is just one example of a non-limiting implementation of a locking mechanism that locks the carriage assembly in place. In principle, other locking mechanisms can be used and are contemplated herein, including tab-like locking mechanisms (which may or may not be spring loaded) that are configured to removably engage part of the carriage arrangement with part of the circular ring assembly. In general, any type of locking mechanism that is configured to lock a carriage assembly in a fixed position relative to the circular ring assembly 100 is presumed to fall within the scope of a carriage locking mechanism claimed herein.

In certain embodiments, the locking mechanisms 118 and 214 may be mechanically linked so that engagement of the locking mechanism 214 allows disengagement of the locking mechanism 118 so as to enable removal of the removable segment 106 only once the carriage assembly 202 is secured and prevented from losing communication (disengaging) with the circular ring assembly 100. In some embodiments, engagement of the locking mechanism 214 simultaneously disengages the locking mechanism 118. The mechanical linkage between the locking mechanisms 118 and 214 can be provided, for example, by utilizing the opening 125 in the fixed segment 104 as one of the through holes 127, such that insertion of the pin 218 into the opening 125 (i.e., through hole 127) pushes on the flange 120 so as to disengage the segment locking mechanism(s) 118. FIG. 5 illustrates the apparatus 10 in a configuration in which the locking mechanism 214 of all of the carriage assemblies 202 are engaged, and in which the removable segment 106 is removed from the circular ring assembly 100.

The geometric configuration of the carriage arrangement 200 is of significant importance. Preferably, an area larger than the opening 116 in the circular ring assembly 100 is free and clear of all of the carriage assemblies 202 in front of and behind the user (the areas centered upon 0° and 180° of the circular ring assembly 100). This geometric configuration ensures that when the carriage assemblies 202 are locked at 0° and 180°, the carriage assemblies 202 do not obstruct or interfere with the removal or replacement of the removable segment(s) 106. In embodiments in which the removable segment(s) 106 have a total angular dimension of 120°, the carriage assemblies 202 may leave an unobstructed area of, for example, approximately 140°, thereby ensuring that the carriage assemblies 202 are far enough away from the edges of the fixed segment 104. In such an embodiment, wherein removal of the removable segment(s) 106 is provided when the user is locked at 0° or 180° positions, if 140° is to be left clear centered about both 0° and 180°, the carriage assemblies 202 may span approximately 40° degrees each (in an embodiment comprising two pairs of carriage assemblies 202.

In embodiments where it is only desirable to remove the removable segment(s) 106 in a single position (for example at 0° or 180°), the space between the carriage assemblies 202 may be connected on one side, either forming a large carriage spanning approximately 220°, given the measurements of the previous example. That 220° area may contain a single large carriage structure with multiple sets of wheels, or may be divided into smaller carriage structures in communication with one another using mechanical means or the user support arrangement 300.

In certain embodiments, immediately adjacent carriage assemblies 202 can be communicatively coupled together via some form of mechanical connection, which in the illustrated embodiment may be a support assembly (or portion thereof) of the user support arrangement 300.

According to certain embodiments, the apparatus 10 is provided with a stowage arrangement for stowing the removable segment(s) 106 when not in use (i.e., when the removable segment(s) is/are removed). When the removable segment(s) 106 are in the stowed configuration, the removable segment(s) 106 does/do not interfere with the operation of the apparatus 10 or activities performed by a user using the apparatus 10.

In certain embodiments, the stowage arrangement includes at least one component in or on the removable segment 106 of the circular ring assembly 100 and at least one component in or on one or more of the carriage assemblies 202 such that when the removable segment 106 is not in use (i.e., stowed), the removable segment 106 still remains attached to the apparatus 10.

In one implementation according to certain embodiments, the carriage arrangement 200 is provided with a set of two or more pins 220 configured to be received by corresponding apertures (also referred to as “holes”) 142 located on portions of the removable segment(s) 106. For example, two adjacent carriage assemblies 202 may each include a single pin 220. The pins 220 may be fixed-position pins, or may be foldable, retractable, stowable, or removable.

In the illustrated embodiment, each of the pins 220 is implemented as a retractable pin, shown in the retracted state, that is on a hinge 223 and sits in a slot or channel that terminates in a recessed area 231. The hinge 223 allows for the pin 220 to be folded up or down about the hinge 223 (i.e., 180-degrees of movement). The recessed area 231 is preferably large enough to allow an operator’s finger to get under the pin 220 and move (pull) the pin 220 up to its deployed configuration in order to be received into a corresponding one of the holes 142.

The holes 142 may be located on a surface of the removable segment 106, for example the top side 138r or the bottom side 140r. In certain embodiments, the holes 142 can be through holes, i.e., the holes extend fully through the removable segment 106 from the top side 138r to the bottom side 140r. In operation to stow the removable segment 106, the holes 142 are placed onto the pins 220, allowing the removable segment 106 to assume the stowed configuration. The stowed removable segment 106 may optionally be secured with straps, magnets, or other securing mechanisms. The placement of the pins 220 and the holes 142 is such that the removable segment(s) 106 does/do not protrude into the opening 116 in the circular ring assembly 100, which should be kept free and clear such that the user may ingress and egress without risk of injury from a protruding piece of the removable segment(s) 106.

FIG. 24A and FIG. 24B show an example of the apparatus 10 with the removable segment 106 removed and in an example stowed configuration.

In another implementation according to certain embodiments, the removable segment(s) 106 is/are additionally connected to the fixed segment 104 or a fixed portion of the apparatus 10 (such as the mechanical interface 400) using an accordion-type mechanism, multi-hinge mechanism, or other type of mechanism, enabling the removable segment(s) 106 to be retracted into a stowed position without becoming disconnected from the overall structure of the apparatus 10, thereby reducing the risk of the removable segment(s) 106 being dropped on a user/operator’s foot or other body part, misplacing the removable segment(s) 106, or damaging the removable segment(s) 106.

It will be appreciated that other stowage arrangements are contemplated herein, including arrangements in which the removable segment 106, when removed, is attached to another part of the apparatus 10, or attached to or placed on a separate structure.

The structure and operation of the user support arrangement 300 will now be described with continued reference to FIGS. 1 - 24D, and with particular reference to FIGS. 20 - 23. The user support arrangement 300 is rotatably mounted to the circular ring assembly 100 via the carriage arrangement 200 (i.e., the carriage assemblies 202), and provides, among other things, user bodyweight support, via interaction with the user’s lower body and/or the user’s lower torso, without interfering with normal human movement patterns and activities. As will become apparent from the following sections of the disclosure, the structure of the user support arrangement 300 provides bodyweight support to the user, while allowing the user to perform a wide variety of movements and activities (e.g., walking, running, squatting, jumping, dancing, kicking, throwing, stretching, training, balance exercising, etc.) without interference from the user support arrangement 300.

In certain embodiments, the user support arrangement 300 has an angulated support assembly 320 that provides mechanical support and connection between the user support arrangement 300 and the carriage arrangement 200, for example via connection mechanisms 325. The angulated support assembly 320 may include a pair of symmetric branches 321, with each branch 321 formed from a plurality of approximately straight segments 322 with angular (angulated) interfaces 324 between the straight segments 322. Each branch 321 may be subdivided into two portions, an approximately horizontal portion 323 and an approximately vertical portion 327. The horizontal portion 323 is approximately horizontal in that it is slightly inclined upwards relative to the horizontal plane. The angular interfaces 324 angle some of the segments 322 of the horizontal portion 323 inward in the horizontal plane. A connector element 329 may connect between portions of the horizontal and vertical portions 323 and 327 to provide additional structure support.

The connection mechanisms 325 may provide mechanical connection between parts of one or more of the straight segments 322 of each branch 321 and parts of the carriage arrangement 200. In the illustrated embodiment, connection mechanisms 325 provide connection between the four carriage assemblies 202 and the angulated support assembly 320 (with two connection mechanisms 325 provided for the horizontal portion 323 of each branch 321). Although not shown in the drawings, the connection mechanisms 325 can include mechanical connectors, such as mechanical fasteners, including, for example, screws, bolts, and the like.

The vertical portions 327 of the two branches 321 are interconnected via a horizontal cross bar 318 that is connected at its center to the top or upper portion of a generally or approximately vertical support 304. The vertical support 304 connection effectively bisects the angulated support assembly 320 into symmetric portions (branches), each having one of the branches 321 and a part of the horizontal cross bar 318.

The angulated support assembly 320 is structurally sound enough to bear the necessary forces while maintaining its structural integrity, and has a unique three-dimensional geometry (shape) such that the angulated support assembly 320 does not interfere with activities and movements of the user received in the user support arrangement 300. Two challenging user movements which are accommodated by the three-dimensional geometry are natural gait movements (such as arm swing when walking), and raising of the knees or squatting. As such, the vertical portions 327 of the branches 321 preferably provide a wide arc at the top (where the vertical portions 327 connect with the horizontal cross bar 318), and the horizontal portions 323 preferably remain vertically low (relative to the top of the vertical support 304) and in close proximity to the carriage assemblies 202. In further detail, the angulation of the branches 321 may be such that the transition from the horizontal portion 323 to the vertical portion 327 (i.e., the upward curvature of the branches 321) is between the user’s 1 o’clock and 2 o’clock (for the right branch 321) and between the user’s 10 o’clock and 11 o'clock (for the left branch 321). The horizontal crossbar 318 is high enough (relative to a top surface 307 of a user support device 306) to allow for raising of the knees or squats.

In other embodiments, the angulation (curvature) of the angulated support assembly 320 may be achieved by using smooth curves (instead of straight segments with angular interfaces between them, or a variation with fewer or more segments / angled portions). It will be appreciated that the support assembly 320, although illustrated and described herein as an angulated supports assembly, may, in general, be with or without angulated supports, straight portions, curved portions, angulated portions, horizontal/vertical portions. The support assembly could be formed from a single member that is bent into a continuous shape that achieves all support requirements of the apparatus. It will be appreciated that the options for constructing a suitable support assembly that fall within the scope of the support assembly claimed herein are vast, and the options mentioned above are only a small handful of such options.

The vertical support 304 extends downward from the horizontal crossbar 318, preferably to an approximate height to where the branches 321 begin to curve upwards. At that position (height), a horizontal support 302 (preferably nominally approximately perpendicular to the vertical support 304 and the horizontal crossbar 318) is connected to the vertical support 304 via connection mechanism 310. A support device 306, that applies bodyweight support to the user, is connected to the horizontal support 302 at a distal end 303 thereof.

In certain embodiments, the horizontal support 302 is movably (pivotably, hingedly) connected to the vertical support 304 via the connection mechanism 310, which can be implemented, for example, as a hinge mechanism, which provides a pivoting / hinged connection between the horizontal support 302 and the vertical support 304. In such embodiments, the connection mechanism 310 may form part of a configuration change mechanism that allows the horizontal support 302 (and hence support device 306) to move (and change) between two configurations (states / positions). As illustrated in FIG. 23, in a first configuration the horizontal support 302 (and support device 306) is in its nominal (or operational) position (i.e., horizontal position), and in a second configuration (shown in phantom in FIG. 23) the horizontal support 302 (and support device 306) is in a lowered, substantially vertical position (downwards). A lifting / lowering device 316 may be deployed at the distal end 303 of the horizontal support 302. The lifting device 316 may be a handle or similar member that extends toward the rear of the horizontal support 302, and can be used to move the horizontal support 302 (support device 306) between the two configurations. In certain uses, the horizontal support 302 may be placed in the second configuration (i.e., lowered position) during ambulatory user ingress to or egress from the apparatus. Controlled placement of the horizontal support 302 in the second configuration is also useful in certain emergency-type situations (for example, user medical emergencies, apparatus malfunction, etc.) where rapid user egress from the apparatus is needed. Further example uses of the apparatus when the horizontal support 302 (and the support device 306) is in the first configuration and the second configuration will be discussed in subsequent sections of this document. It will be appreciated, however, that in certain embodiments, the horizontal support 302 is non-movably connected to the vertical support 304 so that the horizontal support 306 fixedly assumes the first configuration.

The connection mechanism 310 (e.g., hinge) that connects the vertical and horizontal supports 304 and 302 is robust enough to support the forces of operation. Furthermore, the horizontal support 302 may be locked into the horizontal position (first configuration) with a locking device or mechanism (designated 315 in the drawings). In one embodiment, the locking device 315, which also forms part of the configuration change mechanism, is a spring-loaded pin, which locks automatically when the horizontal support 302 is lifted to assume the first configuration. In a preferred embodiment, this locking device 315 is not released under pressure, thereby ensuring that if a user is in the apparatus 10 and receiving a force, the locking device will not be accidentally released, which could otherwise cause the user to fall out of the apparatus, potentially resulting in discomfort, injury, or death. The locking device may include a release mechanism that releases the locking device, enabling movement of the horizontal support 302 (and the support device 306) from the first configuration to the second configuration.

In other embodiments, the lifting / lowering device 316 may be deployed at any other suitable position along the horizontal support 302, and may be implemented in other ways besides a handle, including as a cantilever mechanism that extends past a front portion of the interface between the horizontal support 302 and the vertical support 304), one or more straps under the support device 306, and the like.

The support device 306, as mentioned above, is connected to the horizontal support 302 at a distal end thereof. The support device 306 may provide user bodyweight support to the lower body of the user. For example, the support device 306 may interact with the user’s buttock and/or pelvic region. In one implementation according to certain embodiments, the support device 306 is a seat-like structure, for example a saddle-shaped support, which can, for example, resemble a bicycle seat at the rear portion with or without a shorter “nose” at the front portion. This shortening of the nose helps to relieve pressure from the user’s perineal region.

In certain embodiments, the top surface 307 (i.e., the user facing surface) of the support device 306 may be configured with a slight downward slope (relative to the horizontal plane), inducing a slight tendency to shift the user’s bodyweight forward. This downward slope is such that the desired forces are applied to the buttock region and do not adversely affect circulation, sensation, or movement of the user, while avoiding the undesirable application of pressure on the perineal region. In such an embodiment, it may be beneficial to employ an additional support device 308 that provides user bodyweight support. The two support devices 306 and 308 cooperatively form a user receiving arrangement (or user support configuration). The support device 308 is an accommodating support that is contoured (i.e., shaped, e.g., may be curved), and may interact with the user’s lower torso (lower abdominal region). The support device 308 preferably has a geometry (contour) that applies bodyweight support to the user through the iliac spines, thereby largely avoiding application of any force to soft tissues of the lower abdomen. The support device 308 helps to maintain the user’s position on the support device 306 (by providing support counteracting the tendency induced by the support device 306 to shift the user’s bodyweight forward). The user facing surface 313 of the support device 308 is preferably a soft / accommodating surface. This surface 313 may be a cushioned surface, but may also be a noncushioned surface, for example in embodiments where the support device 308 is constructed from polycarbonate material.

The support device 308 is preferably movably connected to the vertical support 304, and is also located within the interior portion of the cylindrical region defined by the circumference of the circular ring assembly 100. In one implementation according to certain embodiments, the support device 308 is a curved support pillow, in which the side of the support device 308 that is in facing relation to the user is softer than the typically rigid side facing away from the user. Preferably, the support device 308 is cushioned and is constructed from a material that resists compression to the point that the support device 308 does not becomes fully compressed under the forces being applied when the apparatus 10 is in use. In another implementation according to certain embodiments, the support device 308 is a set of two (or more) pillows, some of which may be curved. In such embodiments, the support pillows may be spaced apart from each other such that each support pillow interacts with a different part of the user’s lower torso (lower abdominal region).

According to certain embodiments, the support device 308 is moveable with up to two linear degrees of freedom and/or up to three angular degrees of freedom. A first linear degree of freedom is essentially along the horizontal axis. The linear horizontal movement of the support device 308 enables the user support arrangement 300 to accommodate users of different sizes while maintaining the user’s yaw axis in the center of the circular ring assembly 100. In such an embodiment, the support device 306 is preferably fixed in place along the horizontal axis so that the support device 306 cannot be moved forwards or backwards, and the support device 308 is able to move horizontally linearly (towards / away) from the central (yaw) axis (i.e., forward / backward). Movement may be continuous movement, or discrete movement. In one implementation according to certain embodiments, linear horizontal movement of the support device 308 is provided by a one-directional ratcheting mechanism 309. In such an implementation, the user or operator may push (for example using one hand) the support device 308 towards the user’s torso (toward the support device 306), which causes the support device 308 to lock into place on the ratcheting mechanism 309. To move the support device 308 away from the user, the ratchet mechanism 309 may be released using a ratchet-release mechanism 311. This operation may require two hands, one hand to release the ratcheting mechanism 309 via the ratchet-release 311, and another to linearly move the support device 308 away from the user. FIG. 21 shows an example of linear horizontal movement of the support device 308, showing two horizontal linear positions of the support device 308 (one of which is shown in phantom).

A second linear degree of freedom is essentially along the vertical axis. The linear vertical movement of the support device 308 enables the user support arrangement 300 to accommodate users of different heights. Here, the support device 306 is preferably fixed in place along the vertical axis so that the support device 306 cannot be moved up or down relative to the plane of the circular ring assembly 100, and the support device 308 is able to move vertically linearly (up / down) relative to the support device 306. This degree of freedom may be continuous or discrete. FIG. 22 shows an example of linear vertical movement of the support device 308, showing two vertical linear positions of the support device 308 (one of which is shown in phantom).

The angular degrees of freedom may be provided in the pitch axis and/or the yaw axis and/or the roll axis, and is designed to provide the user with more comfort. The angular degree(s) of freedom may be discrete or continuous, and can be enabled by a single or multi-axis tilt mechanism that connects the support device 308 to the vertical support 304.

The geometry of the support device 306 (or devices 306 and 308), in addition to providing bodyweight support to the user (as discussed above), also enable efficient (quick and easy) user ingress to and egress from the user support arrangement 300. The removability of the removable segment 106 of the circular ring assembly 100 further increases the efficiency of user ingress and egress.

In certain embodiments, parts of the angulated (curved) support assembly 320 may function as a further support device, which can be used in addition to or instead of the support device 308. In further embodiments, additional side and/or back padding or straps can be attached to one or both of the support devices 306 and 308, or to any part of the carriage arrangement 200 and/or the user support arrangement 300, to provide additional support to the user.

In certain preferred embodiments, the geometry of the user support arrangement 300 is such that the central vertical (yaw) axis of the support device 306 is aligned with, and maintained at, the geometric center of the circular ring assembly 100, i.e., somewhere along the central vertical axis (designated VAX in FIG. 3 and FIG. 4) of the circular ring assembly 100. This geometry ensures that a user rotating within the user support arrangement 300 does so about the user’s own craniocaudal (longitudinal / yaw) axis, without inducing any lateral movements (forward/backwards or left/right) of the axis itself with respect to the circular ring assembly 100 (which would be the case if the position of the support device 306 is off-center with respect to the circular ring assembly 100). In other terms, the geometry of the user support arrangement 300 is such is such that the central vertical (yaw) axes of the circular ring assembly 100 and of the user are maintained in superposition.

Furthermore, the rotatable mounting of the user support arrangement 300 to the circular ring assembly 100 via the carriage arrangement 200, in combination with the geometry of the user support arrangement 300, enables unlimited and unrestricted 360° rotation of the user support arrangement 300 about the user’s yaw axis. In the context of this document, unlimited and unrestricted rotation means that the user may infinitely continue to yaw in a single direction (e.g., clockwise and/or counter clockwise), or alternate directions as frequently as desired, and is not limited in any way by the apparatus in terms of the number of full (complete) rotations in any direction. For example, a user may complete an integer or fractional number of rotations in the clockwise or counter clockwise direction, and then reverse rotational directions and complete an integer or fractional number of rotations in the counter clockwise or clockwise direction, over and over again as desired.

In principle, the apparatus 10 may be used in various ways when the horizontal support 302 (and the support device 306) is in the first (i.e., horizontal) configuration, and in practice, practically all user activities are performed when the horizontal support 302 (and the support device 306) is in the first (i.e., horizontal) configuration. Specifically, the user is supported by the support device 306 at or near the ischial tuberosities (the support device 306 applies force to these bones). In one example use, the horizontal support 302 may be placed in the first configuration when the user is performing activities or body motions, or activities or motions that require at least some bodyweight support, which may be provided through the buttock and/or pelvic region. Examples of such activities or motions can include, for example, lower-, upper-, or full-body exercises, including standing, walking, running, squatting, jumping, dancing, kicking, throwing, stretching, squatted walking, cycling, stepping, balance tasks, reaching tasks, obstacle negotiation, coordination tasks, motor tasks, dual/multi tasks, functional tasks, activities of daily living, and the like. In certain cases, the horizontal support 302 may also be placed in the first configuration during user ingress to and/or egress from the apparatus, for example for non-ambulatory users. In certain cases, the apparatus may be used as a sit-to-stand system where assistance to nonambulatory users to ingress to the apparatus is needed.

In principle, the apparatus 10 may be used in various ways when the horizontal support 302 (and the support device 306) is in the second (i.e., vertical) configuration. As mentioned above, in one example use, the horizontal support 302 may be placed in the second configuration (i.e., lowered position) during user ingress to or egress from the apparatus 10. This may be particularly useful for ambulatory users. The second configuration may also be useful for emergency egress of the user from the apparatus, for example in situations where the apparatus malfunctions, becomes impaired, disabled, or unreliable, or in case of medical emergency. In such situations, the release mechanism of the locking device 315 may be used in combination with the lifting / lowering device 316 (possibly along with straps or other supports members) to lower the user in a controlled manner, even in situations where the apparatus becomes disabled or malfunctions.

The geometry of the user support arrangement 300 is conducive for accommodating such activities without obstructing the user or interfering with the user, in particular without interfering with the user’s natural arm swing during walking, the user’s raising of knees/squats, or the user’s natural gait patterns (and other similar motions and movements). When using the apparatus when the horizontal support 302 is placed in the second configuration, the other support device 308 may be used (to some degree) to provide at least partial bodyweight support to the user. With continued reference to FIGS. 1 - 23, reference is now made to FIGS. 24A - 24D, which illustrate the apparatus 10 in various operational configurations. The operational configurations illustrated in FIGS. 24A - 24D are non-limiting examples of operational configurations of the apparatus.

Looking first at FIG. 24A, the apparatus 10 is shown in an exemplary operational configuration in which at least some of the carriage assemblies 202 are in a locked configuration (via locking mechanism 214) so as to lock the carriage arrangement 200 in place relative to the circular ring assembly 100, and in which the removable segment 106 is removed from the circular ring assembly 100 and in a stowed configuration. The opening 116 in the path 102 is clearly visible in this figure. In the illustrated example, the user support arrangement 300 is in its nominal configuration, with the nose of the support device 306 aligned at 0° of the circular ring assembly 100 (i.e., facing forward toward the central bar 402 of the mechanical interface 400). In this operational configurations, the apparatus 10 is suitably configured for user ingress to or egress from the user support arrangement 300.

Turning now to FIG. 24B, the apparatus 10 is shown in another exemplary operational configuration. Here, the apparatus 10 is similarly configured as in FIG. 24A, but the user support arrangement 300 is rotated 180° so as to be facing away from the mechanical interface 400 (and facing the opening 116). The removable segment 106 is also shown here as being removed and stowed, and some of the carriage assemblies 202 are shown as being locked via locking pins of the locking mechanism 214.

The operational configurations illustrated in FIG. 24C is similar to the configurations illustrated in FIG. 24B, but here the removable segment 106 is replaced so that the circular ring assembly 100 assumes the full circular configuration (completing the continuous path 102). It is noted that in the figure, at least some of the carriage assemblies 202 are in the locked configuration, but in general all of the carriage assemblies 202 may be unlocked. If unlocked, then the segment locking mechanism is engaged (so the removable segment 106 cannot be removed), but the carriage assemblies 202 are all free to rotate, so the user can continuously rotate inside the ring without risk of the removable segment 106 disengaging from the fixed segment 104.

The operational configurations illustrated in FIG. 24D is similar to the configurations illustrated in FIG. 24C, but here the user support arrangement 300 is rotated 90° clockwise. It is noted that in the figure, at least some of the carriage assemblies 202 are in the locked configuration but in general all of the carriage assemblies 202 may be unlocked (similar to as described with reference to FIG. 24C).

Turing now to FIGS. 25 - 28B, there is illustrated a bodyweight support interface apparatus, generally designated 10A, and various components thereof, constructed and operative according to a second set of non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure. The apparatus 10A is generally similar to the apparatus 10, but with several differences, some of which are negligible (e.g., minor and/or aesthetic in nature), and some of which are more significant (e.g., structural and/or functional). In the following description of the apparatus 10A, like reference numerals of the apparatus 10 will be used. Where a component of the apparatus 10A is identical in structure and function to the corresponding component of the apparatus 10, or has negligible differences, an identical reference numeral of the component will be used. Where a component of the apparatus 10A has more significant structural and/or functional differences from the corresponding component of the apparatus 10, or has no corresponding component in the apparatus 10, an identical reference numeral of the component will be used with the letter “A” appended at the end of the reference numeral.

Bearing the above in mind, the apparatus 10A includes circular ring assembly 100A, a carriage arrangement 200A having at least one carriage assembly 202A, a user support arrangement 300A, and mechanical interface 400. Unlike the embodiments described with reference to FIGS. 1 - 24D in which the circular ring assembly 100 includes a fixed member (segment 104) that is fixedly connected to a base structure (e.g., the mechanical interface 400) and in which the carriage assemblies 202 move along the path 102 of the circular ring assembly 100, in present embodiments the carriage assemblies 202A are fixed members that are fixedly connected to a base structure and the circular ring assembly 100A is a rotatable member that is configured to move along a path of movement. In particular, each of the carriage assemblies 202A is configured to be fixedly connected to a base structure (e.g., the mechanical interface 400), and provides at least part of a continuous circular path 102A of movement (represented as dashed circular shape in FIG. 26). The circular ring assembly 100A is communicatively coupled to the carriage assemblies 202A, and is configured to move along the circular path 102A of movement so as to rotate about its central axis VAX. The user support structure 300A is rotatably mounted to the carriage assemblies 202A via the circular ring assembly 100A.

Each of the carriage assemblies 202A includes at least one generally u-shaped member 204A having a pair of spaced apart legs 206A forming a channel 208A therebetween, through which portions of the circular ring member pass during rotational movement thereof. The geometry and relative position between the channels 208A of the carriage assemblies 202A defines the part of the path 102A provided by the carriage assemblies 202A. One or more wheels 213 (or other movement accommodating mechanisms such as those described above with reference to movement mechanism 212) are deployed in the channel 208A to accommodate rotational movement of the circular ring assembly 100A. The wheels or movement mechanisms are preferably deployed and spaced in the channel 208A to provide structural support to the circular ring assembly 100A, especially during rotational movement of the circular ring assembly 100A.

In the non-limiting illustrative embodiment shown in FIG. 25 and FIG. 26, a pair of carriage assemblies 202A is deployed at or near the terminal end 405 of each of the side bars (legs) 404 of the mechanical interface 400. As illustrated in FIG. 26, and more clearly shown in FIG. 33 A and FIG. 33B, each carriage assembly 202B is formed as a generally u-shaped member 204A. Each generally u-shaped member 204A has a base section 225A to which the legs 206A are connected (preferably integrally formed). A connector element 203 A may provide a mechanical connection between the base sections 225A of the generally u-shaped members 204A of the pair of carriage assemblies 202A. In certain embodiments, the generally u-shaped members 204A and the connector element 203A for each pair of carriage assemblies 202A are integrally formed to form a unitary structure. The top surface 233A of the connector element 203A is in facing relation with the bottom side 140 of the circular ring assembly 100A when the circular ring assembly 100A is mounted to the carriage arrangement 200A. The connector element 203A has some degree of curvature, preferably matched to the curvature of the circular ring assembly 100A, and defines part of the path 102A.

The upper ends 207A of the legs 206A of the generally u-shaped members 204A are angled inward toward the channel 208A, with a wheel 213 (or other movement mechanism) positioned on interior sidewalls 221A of the upper ends 207A, and preferably also positioned on the interior sidewall 211A of the base section 225A. The shape of the channel 208A, defined by the geometry of the base section 225A, legs 206A, and upper ends 207 A, is correspondingly configured to match the cross-sectional shape of the circular ring member 100A. Accordingly, the interior sidewalls 210A of the legs 206A are in facing relation with the rims (external 134 and internal 136) of the circular ring assembly 100A, the interior sidewall 211A of the base section 225A is in facing relation with the bottom side 140 of the circular ring assembly 100A, and the interior sidewalls 221A of the angulated upper ends 207A are in facing relation with angulated portions 134a and 136a of the rims 134 and 136.

FIG. 28A shows a cross-section of the empty channel 208A, and FIG. 28B shows a crosssection of the channel 208A with the circular ring member 100A accommodated in the channel 208A (so that the u-shaped members effectively straddle the circular ring assembly 100A in an inverted position).

In certain embodiments, multiple carriage assemblies 202A may be employed and spaced apart from each other to form a condensed chain of carriage assemblies 202A that function to provide the necessary structural support to the circular ring assembly 100A. In other embodiments, the carriage assemblies 202A may be elongated in the direction of the path 102A, thereby increasing the length of the channel 202A and hence increasing the structural support provided to the circular ring assembly 100A. In some of such embodiments, the elongated carriage assemblies 202A form sleeve-like members, whereby the channel 208A forms the hollow portion of the sleeve. In such embodiments, the portions of the circular ring assembly 100A that pass through the channel 208A during rotation of the circular ring assembly 100A are fully encapsulated within the sleeve. Wheels (or another type of movement enabling mechanism) may be deployed within the channel of the sleeve in spaced relation to each other along the length of the channel, and may also be radially distributed about an interior circumference or perimeter of the channel.

Turing now to FIGS. 29 - 34B, there is illustrated a bodyweight support interface apparatus, generally designated 10B, and various components thereof, constructed and operative according to a third set of non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure. The apparatus 10B is a variation of the apparatus 10A. Where a component of the apparatus 10B is identical in structure and function to the corresponding component of the apparatus 10A or 10, or has negligible differences, an identical reference numeral of the component will be used. Where a component of the apparatus 10B has more significant differences from the corresponding component of the apparatus 10A or 10, or has no corresponding component in the apparatus 10A or 10, an identical reference numeral of the component will be used with the letter “B” appended at the end of the reference numeral

Similar to the apparatus 10A and 10, the apparatus 10B includes a circular ring assembly 100B, a carriage arrangement 200B having at least one carriage assembly 202B, a user support arrangement 300B, and mechanical interface 400. Similar to the apparatus 10A, each of the carriage assemblies 202B is configured to be fixedly connected to a base structure (e.g., the mechanical interface 400), and provides at least part of a continuous circular path of movement. The circular ring assembly 100B is communicatively coupled to the carriage assemblies 202B, and is configured to move along the circular path of movement so as to rotate about its central axis. However, as illustrated in FIG. 30, FIG. 33, and FIG. 34B, in the present embodiment the bottom side 140 of the circular ring assembly 100B is open such that a channel 135B, configured to accommodate the carriage assemblies 202B, is formed at the bottom side 140 between the rims 134 and 136. The shape of the channel 135B, defined by the geometry of the cross-section of the circular ring assembly 100B, is correspondingly configured to match the cross-sectional shape of the carriage assemblies 202B, such that the carriage assemblies 202B, when positioned (accommodated) within the channel 135B, are internal to the circular ring assembly 100B from the bottom side 140. The channel 135B is generally an inverted u-shape, defined by the top side 138 and the rims 134 and 136 (and angulated portions 134a and 136a thereof) of the circular ring assembly 100B. The channel 135B extends circumferentially along the entirety of the bottom side 140 of the circular ring assembly 100B, allowing free movement of the carriage assemblies 202B through the channel 135B thereby enabling unimpeded rotation of the circular ring assembly 100B relative to the carriage arrangement 200B.

In the non-limiting illustrative embodiment shown in FIG. 31 , a pair of carriage assemblies 202B, each formed as a projecting member 224B, is deployed at or near the terminal end 405 of each of the side bars (legs) 404 of the mechanical interface 400. As illustrated in FIG. 31, and more clearly shown in FIG. 34A and FIG. 34B, each projecting member 224B includes an elongated portion 226B configured to attach the projecting member 224B to the mechanical interface 400, and a channel engagement portion 228B, preferably integrally formed with the elongated portion 226B, configured to engage with the channel 135B. A majority portion of the engagement portion 228B is wider than the elongated portion 226B. A pair of tapered sidewalls 227B of the engagement portion 228B provide transition between the narrower elongated portion 226B and the wider engagement portion 228B.

A wheel 213 may be provided at each tapered sidewall 227B, as well as at an upper external surface 229B of the engagement portion 228B. The wheels 213 accommodate rotational movement of the circular ring assembly 100B along the carriage assemblies 202B. The sidewalls 227B are angulated to match the profile of the angulated portions 134a and 136a of the internal and external rim 134 and 136 of the circular ring assembly 100B, such that the wheels 213 at the tapered sidewalls 227B engage with the angulated portions 134a and 136a.

A connector element 203B may provide a mechanical connection between the elongated portions 226B of the projecting members 224B of the pair of carriage assemblies 202B. In certain embodiments, the projecting members 224B and the connector element 203B for each pair of carriage assemblies 202B are integrally formed to form a unitary structure. The top surface of the connector element 203B is in facing relation with the bottom side of the circular ring assembly 100B when the circular ring assembly 100B is mounted to the carriage arrangement 200B. The projecting members 224B of the pair of carriage assemblies 202B may be angled relative to one another to define the part of the path of movement provided by the carriage assemblies 202B.

As mentioned, the channel 135B and the carriage assemblies 202B are correspondingly configured such that the carriage assemblies 202B, when accommodated in the channel 135B, are internal to the bottom side 140 of the circular ring assembly 100B. In particular, when a carriage assembly 202B is accommodated in the channel 135B, the interior sidewalls 137B and 139B opposite the rims 134 and 136 are in facing relation with vertical sidewalls 237B of the engagement portion 228B, the interior sidewall 141B opposite the top surface 138 is in facing relation with the upper external surface 229B of the engagement portion 228B, the interior sidewalls 143B and 145B of the angulated portions 134a and 136a of the rims 134 and 136 are in facing relation with the tapered sidewalls 227B, and the elongated portion 226B extends downward out of the channel 135B via an opening 250B in the bottom side 140, between the angulated portions 134a and 136a of the rims 134 and 136, that communicates with the channel 135B.

FIG. 34A illustrates a cross-section of the circular ring assembly 100B of one of the carriage assemblies 202B. FIG. 34B illustrates a cross-section similar to FIG. 34A, but showing the engagement portion 228B of one of the carriage assemblies 202B seated (accommodated) in the channel 135B, whereby the circular ring assembly 100B effectively straddles the projecting members 224B.

It is noted that in the illustrated embodiments of the apparatus 10A and 10B, simplified user support arrangements 300A and 300B having user support assemblies 320A and 320B, respectively, are shown. These user support arrangements 300A and 300B lack the user support devices 306 and 308 of the user support arrangement 300, and have user support assemblies 320A and 320B with different geometric structure from the angulated support assembly 320 of the user support arrangement 300. However, it will be appreciated that each of the user support assemblies 320A and 320B may be provided with user support devices, similar to user support devices 306 and 308. Moreover, the user support assemblies of the various apparatus 10, 10A, 10B may be interchangeable, such that, for example, the user support assembly 300 of the apparatus 10 can be used with the apparatus 10A and/or 10B, the user support assembly 300A / 300B of the apparatus 10A / 10B can be used with the apparatus 10, etc.

In certain embodiments, the user support assemblies of the various apparatus 10, 10A, 10B may be provided with an extendable and retractable horizontal bar, that can extend from (and retract toward) a horizontal cross bar (for example cross bar 318) of the user support assembly. The extendable and retractable horizontal bar may be configured to assume a selectable height selected from a plurality of discrete heights, and may include a locking configuration that locks the extendable and retractable horizontal bar at the selected height. The extendable and retractable horizontal bar can be used to provide additional support and stability to the user, for example by allowing the user to grip the extendable and retractable horizontal bar while performing various movements. The extendable and retractable bar may also provide connection for further support devices.

In other embodiments, the user support assemblies of the various apparatus 10, 10A, 10B may be provided with handles, for example located at a part of each of the branches (for example branches 321) of the user support assembly, for gripping by a user of the apparatus in order to, for example, provide the user with additional support and stability.

In yet further embodiments, the user support assemblies of the various apparatus 10, 10A, 10B may be provided with one or more further support devices in addition to support devices 306 and 308. In one embodiment, a further support device may be implemented, for example, as a pad connected to portions of the user support assembly via strap. The further support device may provide the user with additional support at the user’s lower and/or mid back area. In another embodiments, a further support device, which may or may not be removable from the user support assemblies 300 / 300A / 300B, provides upper body (torso) support to the user. This further support device preferably rigidly connects to the apparatus, for example via the user support assembly, and includes a mechanism for securing to the user and providing body weight support at the user’s upper torso. In one non-limiting example implementation, the upper torso support mechanism includes rigid supports that are configured to be placed under the user’s arm (similar to crutches) with or without a strap for positioning. In another non-limiting example implementation, the upper torso support mechanism includes a strap mechanism, which may be constructed from a soft, rigid, or semi-rigid structure, that is configured to wrap around the user so as to simultaneously provide bodyweight support at the user’s upper torso and positioning. Either of the aforementioned nonlimiting example implementations may include a front cushion to provide the user with cushioning on the chest for comfort.

The apparatus 10A / 10B includes various locking and stopping mechanisms, akin to the locking mechanisms 118 and 214 and stopping mechanism 126 of the apparatus 10 described above. The locking mechanisms of the apparatus 10A / 10B generally operate in the same way as their counterpart locking mechanisms of the apparatus 10. Some of the locking mechanism(s) of the apparatus 10A / 10B provide the same function as their counterpart mechanism(s) of the apparatus 10, whereas other of the mechanism(s) of the apparatus 10A / 10B provide similar but different function as their counterpart mechanism(s) of the apparatus 10, as should be understood from the descriptions of the mechanisms 118, 126, 214 and the apparatus 10 A / 10B. For example, the segment locking mechanism(s) of the apparatus 10A / 10B may function in the same exact way as the segment locking mechanism 118 of the apparatus 10, i.e., the segment locking mechanism(s) of the apparatus 10A / 10B is/are configured to assume a locked position so as to lock the removable member(s) 106 in a full circular configuration. However, due to the circular ring assembly 100A / 100B of the apparatus 10A / 10B being movable relative to the carriage assemblies 202A / 202B, the carriage stopping and locking mechanism(s) of the apparatus 10A / 10B may function in a similar but slightly different way from the locking mechanisms 126 and 214. For example, the carriage stopping mechanism(s) of the apparatus 10A / 10B may function to lock the circular ring assembly 100A / 100B in a configuration that limits movement of the circular ring assembly 100A / 100B along the path (relative to the carriage assembly 202A / 202B), thereby preventing an area of the removable member(s) 106 from reaching the carriage assemblies 202A / 202B when the removable segment(s) 106 is/are removed. As another example, the carriage locking mechanism of the apparatus 10A / 10B may function to lock the circular ring assembly 100A / 100B in place at a position or positions relative to the carriage assemblies 202A / 202B , preferably in a configuration that limits movement of the circular ring assembly 100A / 100B along the path (relative to the carriage assembly 202A / 202B), such that an area of the removable member(s) 106 is prevented from reaching the carriage assemblies 202A / 202B when the removable segment(s) 106 is/are removed. The carriage locking mechanism of the apparatus 10A / 10B may further function to release the carriage assembly 202A / 202B so as to provide controlled disengagement of the carriage assembly 202A / 202B from the circular ring assembly 100A / 100B .

As briefly mentioned in the introductory sections of this document, the apparatus (10, 10A, 10B, etc.) according to the embodiments disclosed herein are applicable for use with various types of devices and systems for which user bodyweight support is required or desired. In certain embodiments, the mechanical interface 400 may provide interfacing connection between the apparatus and such devices / systems, for example via the connection member 403, which may be implemented, for example, as a mounting plate or bracket(s) which may include mechanical fasteners (e.g., bolts). Examples of such devices and systems include, but are not limited to, clinical bodyweight support devices, gaming systems, personnel training systems, exercise systems, astronaut training systems, and patient walkers. The adaptability and maneuverability provided by the disclosed apparatus allows the user to perform a wide variety of activities, including, for example, walking, running, squatting, jumping, dancing, kicking, throwing, stretching, training, balance exercising, etc, which can be performed by the user while using the aforementioned devices / systems. In addition, the major components of the apparatus, including the circular ring assembly, carriage arrangement, and user support arrangement, enable the user to perform activities while in a variety of positions, including, for example, standing position, squatting positions, and yawed positions, which makes the disclosed apparatus particularly suitable for use with a wide variety of exercise / training / clinical rehabilitation type of systems, which may include motion devices such as treadmills, omnidirectional treadmills (ODTs), and the like.

As one non-limiting use-case example, the apparatus may be used in conjunction with an ODT whereby the apparatus is deployed so that the circular ring assembly is centered on the ODT. The user may operate the apparatus with the support device 306 in the first configuration (i.e., raised / horizontal position), and the user may yaw in any direction (clockwise or counter clockwise) within the circular ring assembly via the carriage arrangement. In uses where the ODT is passive, the ODT does not rotate, and only the user rotates within the ODT. In uses where the ODT is an active ODT, the user may rotate as the ODT rotates its orientation. In such active ODT uses, the ODT may rotate in accordance with the user’s rotation such that the orientation of the ODT matches the locomotion direction of the user. The responsive rotation of the ODT may be achieved via a sensor arrangement deployed in communication with the apparatus that detects the locomotion direction of the user.

In another set of non-limiting use-case examples, the apparatus may be used in conjunction with other types of surfaces, including overground surfaces, standard treadmills, and the like.

In another non-limiting use-case example, the apparatus according to the embodiments of the present disclosure can be used in conjunction with a force applying unit of the gravity modification system, such as the force applying unit described in commonly owned US Patent No. 11,383,062. In such a use-case, the presently disclosed apparatus may replace the harness unit and some of the human interfacing components of the force applying unit of the aforementioned patent. It will be apparent that the apparatus of the present disclosure is a dramatic improvement over the harness unit and the human interfacing components described in the aforementioned patent, which do not provide the user support and unincumbered user movement that the apparatus of the presently disclosed embodiments provide. In another use-case, the apparatus according to the embodiments of the present disclosure can be used as part of an improved version of the gravity modification system of the aforementioned patent. FIG. 35 illustrates such a use-case, showing an embodiment of the apparatus 10 (with the removable segment 106 removed) deployed as part of a gravity modification system 1 having a force applying unit 2 mounted to a base structure, shown as being implemented as a pair of legs 3. A mobility arrangement (movement mechanism), shown as being implemented as a set of wheels 4 attached at ends of each leg 3, is also provided. The force applying unit 2 illustrated in FIG. 35 generally operates in the same or similar fashion as the force applying unit described in the aforementioned patent, and may be understood by analogy thereto.

In the foregoing description of the apparatus according to the various embodiments disclosed herein, reference has been made to various locking and/or stopping mechanisms. In certain embodiments, these mechanisms may together form a component movement limiting arrangement, such that each of the mechanisms forms part of the component movement limiting arrangement. Furthermore, some or all of the component movement limiting mechanisms may, in certain embodiments, include components that may themselves be locked in place to prevent accidental removal or misplacement. Although the locking and stopping mechanisms have been described herein according to a particular set of non-limiting exemplary implementations, it will be appreciated that other implementations are contemplated herein, including implementations employing clips, resiliently biased detents, spring-loaded mechanisms, and the like.

In certain embodiments, each of the mechanisms of the component movement-limiting arrangement may also be coupled with a sensor system (having one or more sensor) that detects the position and/or configuration of the locking or stopping mechanism, and may be operated by an actuator (manual, electronic, hydraulic, pneumatic, mechanical, or other). In certain embodiments, the sensor system(s) of one mechanism of the component movement-limiting arrangement may be connected (for example electronically) to the actuator of another mechanism of the component movement-limiting arrangement. This allows, for example, the position and/or configuration of one of the mechanisms, detected by a sensor of the sensor system, to be used as actuation input for another of the mechanisms. As one non-limiting example, the carriage assembly locking mechanism 214 may be provided with a carriage assembly locking sensor system that detects the position / configuration of the carriage assembly locking mechanism 214, and the carriage assembly locking sensor system may be electronically connected to an actuator of the segment locking mechanism 118. The carriage assembly locking sensor system may generate an output signal in response to detecting engagement of the carriage assembly locking mechanism 214. The output signal may then be provided (e.g., by the carriage assembly locking sensor system) to an actuator of the segment locking mechanism 118, causing the segment locking mechanism 118 to disengage so as to enable removal of the removable segment 106 only once the carriage assembly 202 is secured and prevented from losing communication (disengaging) with the circular ring assembly 100.

In certain embodiments, an electronic control system (having one or more computer processors or electronic circuits coupled to one or more computer memory) may be provided as part of, or in electronic communication with, the sensor systems and/or the locking and stopping mechanism actuator(s).

As mentioned at the beginning of this description, the various body weight support interface apparatus according to the embodiments of the present disclosure are constructed with structural integrity to support full transfer of force between the components of the apparatus. As a simplified example, full force is transferred through support device(s) (e.g., support devices 306 / 308) to the support assembly (e.g., support assembly 320), to the carriage arrangement, to the circular ring assembly, to the connection mechanisms between the circular ring assembly and the mechanical interface (e.g., connection mechanisms 325), and to the mechanical interface. If any part of the chain of force transfer is not structurally sound, the apparatus may become unstable or malfunction or break, which may result in user injury or even death. It will be appreciated that although sensors and/or actuators may be present for any or all of the mechanisms of the component movement-limiting arrangement, one does not necessarily necessitate the other. For example, it may be possible to have a mechanism with a sensor only but no actuator, an actuator only but no sensor, both an actuator and a sensor, and no actuator and no sensor.

The descriptions of the various embodiments of the present disclosure have been presented for purposes of illustration, but are not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the embodiments disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the described embodiments. The terminology used herein was chosen to best explain the principles of the embodiments, the practical application or technical improvement over technologies found in the marketplace, or to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the embodiments disclosed herein.

As used herein, the singular form, “a”, “an” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance or illustration”. Any embodiment described as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments and/or to exclude the incorporation of features from other embodiments.

It is appreciated that certain features of the disclosure, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the disclosure, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable subcombination or as suitable in any other described embodiment of the disclosure. Certain features described in the context of various embodiments are not to be considered essential features of those embodiments, unless the embodiment is inoperative without those elements.

To the extent that the appended claims have been drafted without multiple dependencies, this has been done only to accommodate formal requirements in jurisdictions which do not allow such multiple dependencies. It should be noted that all possible combinations of features which would be implied by rendering the claims multiply dependent are explicitly envisaged and should be considered part of the disclosure.

Although the disclosure has been described in conjunction with specific embodiments thereof, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, it is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, and variations that fall within the spirit and broad scope of the appended claims.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A bodyweight support interface apparatus, comprising: a circular ring assembly providing a continuous path; at least one carriage assembly in communication with the circular ring assembly and configured to move along the continuous path; and a user support arrangement rotatably mounted to the circular ring assembly via the at least one carriage assembly and configured to support a user at an interior portion of the circular ring assembly.

2. The bodyweight support interface apparatus of claim 1, wherein the circular ring assembly includes a plurality of members, at least one member of the plurality of members is removable to create a discontinuity in the path that provides at least one of entry to or exit from the interior portion of the circular ring assembly.

3. The bodyweight support interface apparatus of claim 2, further comprising: a component movement-limiting arrangement comprising: a first locking mechanism configured to lock the at least one member in a full circular configuration when the at least one carriage assembly is configured for free rotation, thereby preventing the at least one carriage assembly from disengaging with the circular ring assembly, and a second locking mechanism configured to lock the at least one carriage assembly in a configuration that limits movement of the at least one carriage assembly along the circular ring assembly, such that the at least one carriage assembly is prevented from reaching an area of the at least one member, wherein engaging the second locking mechanism allows disengagement of the first locking mechanism, enabling removal of the at least one member only when the at least one carriage assembly is secured and prevented from disengaging with the circular ring assembly.

4. The bodyweight support interface apparatus of claim 2, further comprising: a component movement-limiting arrangement comprising a stopping mechanism configured to limit movement of the at least one carriage assembly along the circular ring assembly, such that the at least one carriage assembly is prevented from reaching an area of the at least one member, wherein removal of the at least one member automatically engages the stopping mechanism.

5. The bodyweight support interface apparatus of claim 2, further comprising: a stowage arrangement having at least one component coupled to the circular ring assembly for stowing the at least one member when the at least one member is removed to create the discontinuity such that the at least one member remains attached to the bodyweight support interface apparatus when the at least one member is not in use.

6. The bodyweight support interface apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: a locking mechanism configured to lock the at least one carriage assembly at a position along the circular ring assembly, and to allow controlled disengagement of the at least one carriage assembly from the circular ring assembly.

7. The bodyweight support interface apparatus of claim 1, wherein the user support arrangement comprises: a substantially horizontal support, a substantially vertical support, a first support device in communication with the substantially horizontal support and configured to interact with a user’s body, a configuration change mechanism configured to allow for the first support device to change between a first configuration and a second configuration, and a second support device in communication with the substantially vertical support and shaped to interface with the user’s lower torso and maintain the user’s position on the first support device.

8. The bodyweight support interface apparatus of claim 7, wherein the first support device is a seat-like structure.

9. The bodyweight support interface apparatus of claim 7, wherein the second support device is an accommodating support having a user-facing surface that is a cushioned or noncushioned surface.

10. The body weight support interface apparatus of claim 1, wherein the circular ring assembly is configured to allow for 360-degree rotation of the user support arrangement about a yaw axis of a user received in the user support arrangement.

11. The body weight support interface apparatus of claim 1, wherein the user support arrangement is configured to provide bodyweight support without interfering with normal human movement patterns.

12. A bodyweight support interface apparatus, comprising: a circular ring assembly comprising a plurality of members forming a continuous path, wherein at least one member of the plurality of members is removable to create a discontinuity in the path that provides at least one of entry to or exit from an interior portion of the circular ring assembly; at least one carriage assembly in communication with the circular ring assembly, configured to move along the path of the circular ring assembly; and a user support arrangement rotatably mounted to the circular ring assembly via the at least one carriage assembly.

13. A bodyweight support interface apparatus, comprising: a circular ring assembly comprising a plurality of members forming a continuous path; at least one carriage assembly in communication with the circular ring assembly, configured to move along the path of the circular ring assembly; a locking mechanism configured to lock the at least one carriage assembly at a position along the circular ring assembly, and to allow controlled disengagement of the at least one carriage assembly from the circular ring assembly; and a user support arrangement in communication with the at least one carriage assembly.

14. A bodyweight support interface apparatus, comprising: a circular ring assembly comprising a plurality of members forming a continuous path, wherein at least one member of the plurality of members is removable to create a discontinuity in the path; at least one carriage assembly in communication with the circular ring assembly, configured to move along the path of the circular ring assembly; a first locking mechanism configured to lock the at least one member in a full circular configuration when the at least one carriage assembly is configured for free rotation, thereby preventing the at least one carriage assembly from disengaging with the circular ring assembly; a second locking mechanism configured to lock the at least one carriage assembly in a configuration that limits movement of the at least one carriage assembly along the circular ring assembly, such that the at least one carriage assembly is prevented from reaching an area of the at least one member, wherein engaging the second locking mechanism allows disengagement of the first locking mechanism, enabling removal of the at least one member only when the at least one carriage assembly is secured and prevented from disengaging with the circular ring assembly; and a user support arrangement in communication with the at least one carriage assembly.

15. A bodyweight support interface apparatus, comprising: a circular ring assembly comprising a plurality of members forming a continuous path, wherein at least one member of the plurality of members is removable to create a discontinuity in the path; at least one carriage assembly in communication with the circular ring assembly, configured to move along the path of the circular ring assembly; a stopping mechanism configured to engage so as to limit movement of the at least one carriage assembly along the circular ring assembly, such that the at least one carriage assembly is prevented from reaching an area of the at least one member, wherein removal of the at least one member automatically engages the locking mechanism; and a user support arrangement in communication with the at least one carriage assembly.

16. A bodyweight support interface apparatus, comprising: a circular ring assembly forming a continuous path; at least one carriage assembly in communication with the circular ring assembly, configured to move along the path of the circular ring assembly; and a user support arrangement in communication with the at least one carriage assembly, the user support arrangement comprising: a substantially horizontal support, a substantially vertical support, a first support device in communication with the substantially horizontal support and configured to interact with a user’s body, a configuration change mechanism configured to allow for the first support device to change between a first configuration and a second configuration, and a second support device in communication with the substantially vertical support and contoured to interface with the user’s lower torso and maintain the user’s position on the first support device.

17. A bodyweight support interface apparatus, comprising: a circular ring assembly comprising a plurality of members forming a continuous path; at least one carriage assembly in communication with the circular ring assembly and configured to move along the path of the circular ring assembly; and a user support arrangement rotatably mounted to the circular ring assembly via the at least one carriage assembly, the user support arrangement including: a support assembly coupled to the at least one carriage assembly, and a user receiving arrangement coupled to the support assembly and having at least one user support device maintained at a geometric center of the circular ring assembly, the user receiving arrangement configured to interact with at least one of a user’s lower body or the user’s lower torso.

18. A bodyweight support interface apparatus, comprising: at least one carriage assembly configured to be in fixed communication with a base structure and configured to provide at least part of a continuous circular path of movement; a circular ring assembly in communication with the at least one carriage assembly, the circular ring assembly having a central axis and configured to move along the circular path of movement so as to rotate about the central axis; and a user support arrangement rotatably mounted to the at least one carriage assembly via the circular ring assembly.

19. The bodyweight support interface apparatus of claim 18, wherein a channel is formed at a bottom side of the circular ring assembly, and wherein the channel is configured to accommodate the at least one carriage assembly.