Treadmill protective cover and method of use

Abstract

This application discloses a treadmill protective cover (208) and a method of using it. An exemplary system includes: a protective cover (202) for a treadmill; a sensor associated with the treadmill or the protective cover (202), the sensor detecting when an object is near or inside a clamping area between the protective cover (202) and the conveyor belt of the treadmill; and a controller configured to receive signals from the sensor, the controller allowing the conveyor belt to operate freely when no object is sensed in the clamping area, and stopping the conveyor belt when an object is sensed in the clamping area.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to devices and methods for protecting users from the effects of treadmill conveyors or other similar equipment. Background Technology

[0002] Safety is a very important aspect of treadmills. During exercise, the conveyor belt on which users train can pose a danger if objects or individuals (such as children) come into contact with it.

[0003] This is even more pronounced when the conveyor belt is not a continuous surface but a so-called roller belt, where the various strips placed side by side are spaced apart, and this distance is even more pronounced during the bending phase, increasing the likelihood that an object or even a hand's finger (especially a child's smaller finger) may accidentally get stuck between the strips.

[0004] Therefore, there is a need to design and provide a treadmill that at least partially eliminates the disadvantages of the aforementioned known technologies and increases safety to prevent user injury. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In some embodiments, the present invention relates to a treadmill comprising: a conveyor belt supported on a frame having an open end forming an entrapping area; and a protective cover mounted on the open end of the conveyor belt of the treadmill and covering the open end to prevent objects from entering the entrapping area.

[0006] In some embodiments, the treadmill further includes: a sensor associated with the treadmill or the protective cover, the sensor detecting when an object is near or inside the clamping area between the protective cover and the conveyor belt of the treadmill; and a controller configured to receive signals from the sensor, the controller allowing the conveyor belt to operate freely when no object is sensed in the clamping area, and stopping the conveyor belt when an object is sensed in the clamping area.

[0007] In some embodiments, the present invention relates to a system or apparatus comprising: a protective cover for a treadmill; a first sensor element associated with the protective cover; a second sensor element associated with a side cover of the treadmill; and a controller configured to receive signals from the first sensor element and the second sensor element, the controller allowing the conveyor belt of the treadmill to operate freely when the signals from the first sensor element and the second sensor element indicate that the protective cover is closed, and stopping the conveyor belt when the signals from the first sensor element and the second sensor element indicate that the protective cover is open.

[0008] In some embodiments, the present invention relates to a system or apparatus comprising: an arcuate body for a treadmill; a first armature extending from the arcuate body; a second armature extending from the arcuate body parallel to the first armature; a first connection interface at a terminal end of the first armature; and a second connection interface at a terminal end of the second armature, the first and second connection interfaces being associated with a conventional support of the treadmill frame. Attached Figure Description

[0009] A detailed description is given with reference to the accompanying drawings. The same reference numerals are used to indicate similar or identical items. Various embodiments may utilize elements and / or components other than those shown in the drawings, and some elements and / or components may not be present in various embodiments. Elements and / or components in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. Throughout this disclosure, singular and plural terms are used interchangeably depending on the context.

[0010] Figure 1 An exemplary prior art treadmill is shown.

[0011] Figure 2 This is a partial front view of the treadmill combined with the protective cover.

[0012] Figure 3 This is a bottom plan view of the treadmill combined with the protective cover.

[0013] Figure 4 This is a front view of the treadmill combined with the protective cover.

[0014] Figure 5 This is a front view of the end of the treadmill combined with the protective cover.

[0015] Figure 6 This is a bottom plan view of the treadmill combined with the protective cover.

[0016] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of a treadmill combined with protective covers.

[0017] Figure 8 This is an exploded perspective view of the treadmill combined with protective covers.

[0018] Figure 9 This is an exploded perspective view of the underside of the treadmill combined with the protective cover.

[0019] Figure 10 This is a perspective view of another exemplary protective cover combined with a treadmill. A partial close-up view of the protective cover is also shown.

[0020] Figure 11 This is a front view of the end of the treadmill combined with the protective cover.

[0021] Figure 12 This is a close-up view of the protective cover on the treadmill in its closed configuration.

[0022] Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view of the protective cover on a treadmill in a closed configuration.

[0023] Figure 14 This is a perspective view of an exemplary protective cover combined with a treadmill.

[0024] Figure 15 This is a perspective view of an exemplary protective cover combined with a treadmill.

[0025] Figure 16 This is a cross-sectional view of the protective cover on a treadmill in a closed configuration.

[0026] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary computer device for practicing aspects of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0027] Overview

[0028] Generally, this invention relates to devices that can be used to protect treadmill conveyor belts to reduce the possibility of user injury or death. Treadmills, of course, include conveyor belts, such as belts or continuous tread tracks, that rotate within a frame. Users can walk or run on the conveyor belt. However, some treadmill conveyor belts have exposed ends. For example, Figure 1 The treadmill 100 has a conveyor belt 102 within a frame 104. Users may have attached limbs, such as feet or legs, pulled under the treadmill 100 by the conveyor belt 102. Smaller children may be pulled down and could suffer serious injury or death. Figure 1In the example shown, both the front and rear ends of the conveyor belt 102 are exposed; however, the exposed end (rear end) 106 of the conveyor belt 102 poses the highest risk to the user. Of course, Figure 1 A prior art treadmill is shown, and the reference numerals in 100 refer to that prior art treadmill.

[0029] Treadmill 100 includes conventional supports 108 and 110. The conventional supports are identical to each other, with one support configured for left-handed use and one support configured for right-handed use. For example, conventional support 108 includes a square tubular body 112 with a J-shaped pin 114. In some embodiments, treadmill 100 includes side covers 116 and 118 that enclose the edges of the conveyor belt 102.

[0030] Figures 2 to 17 Treadmill 100 with various versions of protective covers is shown. In some cases, the treadmill uses sensor enhancements to detect the position of the protective cover. In another embodiment, the treadmill uses sensor enhancements to detect the presence of objects near the protective cover or between the protective cover and the treadmill's conveyor belt.

[0031] Figures 2 to 9 A treadmill 100 with an exemplary protective cover 202 is shown, which can be used to cover the exposed end 106 of the conveyor belt 102 of the treadmill 100 to protect the user from injury. The protective cover 202 includes an arcuate body 208 that can be secured to the underside of the frame 104 of the treadmill 100. Any suitable mechanism for securing the protective cover 202 to the frame 104 can be used. However, in one exemplary embodiment, the protective cover 202 includes two fittings 214 and 216 extending from the arcuate body 208. Each of the fittings 214 and 216 is associated with a connection interface that can be connected to conventional supports 108 and 110 of the treadmill 100. For example, a first connection interface 218 can be connected to conventional support 108, while a second connection interface 220 can be connected to conventional support 110.

[0032] A close-up view of the first connection interface 218 is shown in Figure 2 The first connection interface 218 includes a connector body 222 that mates with the conventional bracket 108. The connector body 222 can be secured to the conventional bracket 108 by one or more fasteners. The connector body 222 includes a hook portion 224 that engages with a J-pin 114 of the conventional bracket 108.

[0033] The curved body 208 extends below the lower side of the frame 104, around the exposed end 106, and upwards to the upper side of the frame 104. In some cases, the size of the protective cover 202 is set to overlap with the opposite side covers 116 and 118 of the treadmill 100. A small gap may exist between the protective cover 202 and the conveyor belt 102 to allow the conveyor belt 102 to rotate freely in a protected manner.

[0034] In some embodiments, the protective cover 202 may be used without protective sensors. In fact, any protective cover disclosed herein may be used without accompanying sensors or control mechanisms associated with the treadmill conveyor belt.

[0035] In some cases, a control system 226 may be included. The control system 226 may include a sensor 228 located near the entrapping area 230. The entrapping area 230 is the area between the protective cover 202 and the conveyor belt 102. When an object is detected near or within the entrapping area 230, the sensor 228 causes the drive mechanism 236 to disengage by cutting off power to the drive mechanism 236. The drive mechanism 236 may be a motor. Therefore, the conveyor belt 102 stops and the entrapped object can be removed. Alternatively or in combination, the sensor 228 may activate an emergency device 234 (such as a brake), and the conveyor belt stops. The control system 226 may also include a controller 232 for receiving sensor outputs and, in response, controlling the operation of the conveyor belt. The controller 232 may receive from the sensor 228 a signal indicating the presence (or absence) of an object in the entrapping area 230.

[0036] When an object is detected in the clamping area, controller 232 can cause conveyor belt 102 to stop rotating. When an object is detected near or inside the clamping area 230, sensor 228 sends a signal to controller 232 that causes disengagement of drive mechanism 236. Specifically, the controller cuts off power to drive mechanism 236 (such as a motor). Therefore, conveyor belt 102 stops and the clamped object can be removed. Alternatively or in combination, sensor 228 can cause controller 232 to activate emergency brake 234 applicable to conveyor belt 102. Controller 232 may include... Figure 17 All or part of the components of the exemplary computer system. Parts of the control system 226 (such as sensors and controllers) may be integrated into conventional components of the treadmill 100, or modified in some cases. Controller 232 may include conventional controllers of the treadmill that have been reprogrammed to perform the functions disclosed herein.

[0037] When the conveyor belt is moving and the protective cover 202 is in the open position, the controller 232 may cause the treadmill's display (not shown) to issue a visual and / or audible warning. For example, a speaker associated with the treadmill may issue an audible natural language warning. In another example, the audible warning may be a tone or other audible sound pattern.

[0038] The above embodiments may also include a force or pressure sensor (e.g., an accelerometer, force sensor, or equivalent) that, if engaged, causes the conveyor belt 102 to stop moving (or stops the motor or other drive mechanism of the conveyor belt 102 by braking or cutting off power). The sensor may be electrically connected (directly or indirectly) to the treadmill's emergency equipment (such as a brake). The force or pressure sensor senses any object that comes into contact with (e.g., collides with) the protective cover 202, and this causes the emergency equipment of the conveyor belt 102 to activate (by using controller 232) and prevent the conveyor belt from rotating. In some embodiments, the protective cover 202 may incorporate any sensors disclosed herein for detecting the closure / opening of the protective cover and / or the presence of an object between the conveyor belt 102 and the protective cover 202. The sensor may communicate with a controller that controls when the conveyor belt 102 is activated or stopped.

[0039] Figures 10 to 12 Another exemplary embodiment of a protective cover 300 is shown, which is pivotally associated with the frame 104 of a treadmill 100. The protective cover 300 has an arcuate body 302 that is similar in shape to the protective cover 202 described above. The protective cover 300 may include two supports 304 and 306 that can be mounted on the underside of the frame 104 of the treadmill 100. The arcuate body 302 includes hinge tabs or protrusions (such as protrusion 308) that can engage with the supports 304, thereby allowing the arcuate body 302 to hinge open and close. Therefore, the arcuate body can be hingedly connected to the frame or other parts of the treadmill using supports mounted on the treadmill.

[0040] Another protrusion (not shown) attaches the other side of the curved body 302 to the bracket 306. The protective cover 300 may also include tabs (such as tabs 310) that can engage with the side covers of the treadmill 100. Tabs 310 can be resiliently biased to engage with and disengage from the side covers.

[0041] The above embodiments can be improved and made safer by applying a switch / contact sensor. The tab 310 can be removably attached to the side cover. The tab may include a sensor (e.g., a magnetic sensor or other equivalent sensor), wherein a complementary sensor is located on the side cover or frame of the treadmill.

[0042] When the contact sensor of the tab contacts the corresponding two side covers of the treadmill 300, the protective cover 100 hinges to a closed position, wherein the protective cover 300 is positioned in a closed and covering relationship with the frame. The contacts may include magnetic contacts and / or electrical contacts. When the contact sensor engages, electrical and / or magnetic signals can be detected.

[0043] If an object is to approach the covered rear end of the treadmill, such as an object being pulled back by the conveyor belt, such an object can slide between the protective cover 300 and the conveyor belt, causing the protective cover 300 to open. The area between the protective cover 300 and the conveyor belt 102 is referred to as the clamping area 301.

[0044] Therefore, the contact between the tab's contact sensor and the side cover is interrupted, causing the conveyor belt to stop rotating. For example, a controller may be communicatively coupled to the contact sensor and may detect this interruption or disruption of contact, causing the motor or other drive mechanism operating the conveyor belt to stop or potentially terminating power to the drive mechanism or motor. Alternatively, the controller may activate an emergency brake associated with the conveyor belt. If any object is expected to approach and / or reach the rear section of the treadmill, the protective cover 300 provides protection against any such object being carried under the treadmill by the conveyor belt. In some cases, an object may still enter between the protective cover and the treadmill's conveyor belt. Systems and methods for detecting and remediating these events are also described herein.

[0045] In one embodiment, position sensor 311 may be included together with protective cover 300. Position sensor 311 includes a first sensor element 312 and a second sensor element 314. The first sensor element 312 may be integrated into the side cover 116 of the treadmill 100. The second sensor element 314 may be placed on the underside of a tab 310 of the protective cover 300. When the protective cover is placed as... Figure 11 and Figure 12In the closed configuration shown, the first sensor element 312 and the second sensor element 314 cooperate to establish a connection between them. This connection can be electrical, magnetic, etc. When the first sensor element 312 and the second sensor element 314 cooperate (e.g., into a face-to-face relationship, and depending on the type of sensor, physical contact may or may not be necessary), the controller 316 receives a signal indicating that the protective cover is closed. When closed, the conveyor belt is allowed to rotate freely. When the first sensor element 312 and the second sensor element 314 are not in a cooperative relationship, the controller 316 receives a signal indicating that the protective cover is open. When the protective cover is open, the controller 316 can stop the conveyor belt 102 from rotating. This may include engaging an emergency brake 318 applicable to the conveyor belt 102. Alternatively or in combination, this may also involve removing power from the drive mechanism 320 (such as a motor) of the conveyor belt 102. Another pair of sensor elements may be associated with another tab of the protective cover 300. The controller 316 may include... Figure 17 All or part of the components of an exemplary computer system.

[0046] As with other embodiments, when the conveyor belt is moving and the protective cover 300 is in the open position, the controller 316 can cause the treadmill's display (not shown) to issue a visual and / or audible warning. For example, a speaker associated with the treadmill can issue an audible natural language warning. In another example, the audible warning may be a tone or other audible sound pattern.

[0047] Figure 13 Another exemplary position sensor 400 is shown that can be configured to determine when a protective cover 402 is open or closed. The protective cover 402 may be similar to... Figures 10 to 12 The protective cover 300 is hinged open or closed. A position sensor 400 can detect the distance between itself and the conveyor belt 102 of the treadmill 100. The position sensor 400 can be mounted on the protective cover 402 and / or the frame of the treadmill 100. The position sensor 400 can output a signal to the controller 404 indicating whether the protective cover 402 is open or closed. Instead of distance, or in addition to distance, the position sensor 400 can also detect hinged movement of the protective cover 402. Another exemplary sensor may include a contact sensor that detects when two objects are in physical contact. For example, the sensor may detect when the protective cover 402 contacts a portion of the treadmill frame. The controller 404 may be wired or wirelessly coupled to the sensor 400. The controller 404 may include... Figure 17All or part of the components of an exemplary computer system. When the conveyor belt is active and the protective cover 402 is in the open position, the controller 404 may cause the treadmill's display (not shown) to issue a visual and / or audible warning. For example, a speaker associated with the treadmill may issue an audible natural language warning. In another example, the audible warning may be a tone or other audible sound pattern. Alternatively, when the protective cover 402 is in the open position, the controller 404 may prevent the conveyor belt from being activated. The conveyor belt cannot rotate until the position sensor 400 senses that the protective cover 402 is closed.

[0048] Figures 14 to 16 Another exemplary embodiment of a protective cover 500 combined with treadmill 100 is shown together. The protective cover 500 may be fastened to side covers 116 and 118, or may have portions including side covers or fixed to the structural metal frame of treadmill 100. The protective cover 500 may be integrated with or integrally formed with side covers 116 and 118. The protective cover 500 may include a protective sensor 502. The protective sensor 502 may include any one or more of a capacitive sensor, an infrared sensor, a laser distance measurement sensor (LIDAR), a proximity sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, and / or a radar sensor—to name just a few. The protective sensor 502 may include sensors of the type known in the art capable of detecting the presence of an object. Of course, in some embodiments, the protective cover 500 may be used without a protective sensor. In fact, any protective cover disclosed herein may be used without accompanying sensors or control mechanisms associated with the treadmill's conveyor belt.

[0049] In one embodiment, the protective sensor 502 may include a first element 506 and a second element 508. The first element 506 may be associated with one of the protective covers 500 or side covers, or with the frame, and the second element 508 may be associated with one of the protective covers 500 or side covers, or with the frame. In another embodiment, the first element 506 may be located on a first side (e.g., the left side) of the conveyor belt 102, for example, integrated into a side cover 116. The second element 508 may be integrated into a second side (e.g., the right side) within another side cover 118. The first and second elements may be aligned with each other to ensure that signals can be transmitted and received between them.

[0050] The first element 506 can emit a signal that is received by the second element 508 to determine whether an object is detected in the clamping area 501. The signal transmitted by the first element 506 and received by the second element 508 can be interrupted by an object (such as a hand, finger, foot, or other object). When an object is placed between the first and second elements, communication or electrical connection between the first and second elements is interrupted, thereby indicating that the object is within or clamped in the protective cover 500. In summary, the first and second elements exchange signals that indicate the object is in the clamping area when interrupted. For example, the first element can emit a light or laser signal that is received by the second element. When this light or laser signal is interrupted, it indicates that the object is in the clamping area.

[0051] The protective cover 500 prevents any object from accidentally engaging in the gripping area 501. The gripping area is typically the open end of the treadmill 100 covered by the protective cover 500. Within this gripping area, a gap exists between the conveyor belt 102 and the protective cover 500. This gap may be wide enough to allow a hand, foot, or other object to fall between them. The sensor 502 can be used to determine when an object is in this gripping area.

[0052] Sensor 502 is located near the clamping area. When an object is detected in this clamping area, sensor 502 can cause the drive mechanism 512 to disengage by cutting off power to the drive mechanism 512, or it can activate an emergency device 510 (such as a brake), and the conveyor belt will stop. Sensor 502 can also cause the drive mechanism of the conveyor belt to stop, which causes the conveyor belt to stop. As in other embodiments, a controller 504 may be included to receive the sensor output and control the operation of the conveyor belt in response thereto.

[0053] For example, the first element 506 may transmit a signal received by the second element 508, thereby creating a sensor signal path therebetween. When this sensor signal path is not interrupted, it can be inferred that there is no object in the gluing area. When an object interrupts the sensor signal path, for example when a user's hand or foot slips between the end of the conveyor belt 102 and the protective cover 500, the object interrupts the sensor signal path. The interruption of the signal between the first element 506 and the second element 508 indicates that an object is in the gluing area. When this signal interruption occurs, the controller 504 may stop the conveyor belt 102 from rotating. Similarly, this may include the engagement of an emergency brake 510 that can be applied to the conveyor belt 102. Alternatively or in combination, this may also involve removing power from the drive mechanism 512 (such as a motor) of the conveyor belt 102.

[0054] As with other embodiments, when the conveyor belt is moving and the protective cover 500 is in the open position, the controller 504 may cause the treadmill's display (not shown) to issue a visual and / or audible warning. For example, a speaker associated with the treadmill may issue an audible natural language warning. In another example, the audible warning may be a tone or other audible sound pattern. Any of the embodiments disclosed herein may be provided with a sensor capable of determining when the protective cover is open / closed. A controller may be present to detect signals from the sensor and cause the treadmill's conveyor belt to stop rotating. Any controller disclosed herein will be understood to include at least a processor and memory. In some cases, the sensor communicates directly with emergency devices, such as the conveyor belt's brakes, to stop the treadmill's conveyor belt based on the opening or closing of the protective cover (depending on the configuration of the protective cover and how it is used).

[0055] According to the present invention, the treadmill 100 includes a conveyor belt 102 supported on a frame 104, the conveyor belt 102 having an open end forming a clamping region 230 (301; 501).

[0056] The treadmill 100 also includes a protective cover 202 (300; 402; 500) which is mounted on the open end of the conveyor belt 102 of the treadmill 100 and covers the open end and prevents objects from entering the belt clamping area 230 (301; 501).

[0057] According to an embodiment, the treadmill 100 also includes a sensor 228 (311; 400; 502) associated with the treadmill 100 or the protective cover 202 (300; 402; 500), the sensor detecting when an object is near or inside the sling area 230 (301; 501) between the protective cover 202 (300; 402; 500) and the conveyor belt 102 of the treadmill 100.

[0058] According to this embodiment, the treadmill 100 also includes a controller 232 (316; 404; 504) configured to receive signals from sensors 228 (311; 400; 502), the controller 232 (316; 404; 504) allowing the conveyor belt 102 to operate freely when no object is detected in the clamping area 230 (301; 501), and stopping the conveyor belt when an object is detected in the clamping area 230 (301; 501).

[0059] According to another embodiment, in combination with the previous embodiment, the sensor 502 includes a first element 506 and a second element 508, the first element 506 being disposed on a first side of the conveyor belt 102 and the second element 508 being disposed on a second side of the conveyor belt 102.

[0060] According to another embodiment, in combination with the previous embodiment, the first element 506 and the second element 508 exchange signals that indicate that the object is in the entrainment region 501 when interrupted.

[0061] According to one embodiment, controller 232 (316; 504) is configured to cause drive mechanism 236 (320; 512) associated with conveyor belt 102 to stop the rotation of conveyor belt 102; or to cause emergency brake 234 (318; 510) associated with conveyor belt 102 to engage and stop the rotation of conveyor belt 102.

[0062] According to an embodiment, in conjunction with any of the foregoing embodiments, the frame 104 further includes side covers 116, 118 that enclose the edge of the conveyor belt 102.

[0063] In this embodiment, the protective cover 202 (300; 402; 500) is configured to engage with one or more of the side covers 116, 118.

[0064] According to one embodiment, in combination with any of the foregoing embodiments, the protective cover 202 (300) includes an arcuate body 208 (302) configured to cover part of the open end of the conveyor belt 102.

[0065] In this embodiment, the arc-shaped body 208 (302) is hingedly connected to the frame 104 of the treadmill 100 using brackets 108, 110 (304, 306) mounted on the treadmill.

[0066] According to the present invention, the system includes a protective cover 202 (300; 402; 500) for a treadmill 100.

[0067] The system also includes a first sensor element 506 associated with the protective cover 500.

[0068] The system also includes a second sensor element 508 associated with the side covers 116, 118 of the treadmill 100.

[0069] The system also includes a controller 232 (316; 404; 504) configured to receive signals from a first sensor element 506 and a second sensor element 508.

[0070] The controller 232 (316; 404; 504) allows the conveyor belt 500 of the treadmill 100 to operate freely when the protective cover 102 is closed, as indicated by signals from the first sensor element 506 and the second sensor element 508, and stops the conveyor belt 500 when the protective cover 102 is open, as indicated by signals from the first sensor element 506 and the second sensor element 508.

[0071] According to an embodiment, controller 232 (316; 504) is configured to cause drive mechanism 236 (320; 512) associated with conveyor belt 102 to stop the rotation of conveyor belt 102.

[0072] According to another embodiment, controller 232 (316; 504) is configured to cause an emergency brake associated with conveyor belt 102 to engage and stop the conveyor belt 102 from rotating.

[0073] According to another embodiment, the protective cover 202 (300) includes an arcuate body 208 (302) configured to cover the open end of the conveyor belt 102.

[0074] In this embodiment, the arc-shaped body 208 (302) is hingedly connected to the frame 104 of the treadmill 100 using brackets 108, 110 (304, 306) mounted on the treadmill 100.

[0075] According to another embodiment, the protective cover 202 (300; 402; 500) is configured to be mounted on the open end of the conveyor belt 102 of the treadmill 100.

[0076] According to another embodiment, the protective cover 202 (300; 402; 500) includes a tab 310 that engages with the side cover 116 of the treadmill 100 118, and a first sensor element 506 is associated with the tab 310.

[0077] According to another embodiment, the second sensor element 508 is associated with the side covers 116, 118 of the treadmill 100.

[0078] According to the present invention, the device includes an arcuate body 208 (302) for a treadmill 100.

[0079] The device includes a first accessory extending from the arcuate body 208 (302).

[0080] The device includes a second accessory that extends parallel to the first accessory from the arcuate body 208 (302).

[0081] The device includes a first connection interface 218 on the terminal end of the first accessory.

[0082] The device includes a second connection interface 220 on the terminal end of the second accessory, and the first connection interface 218 and the second connection interface 220 are associated with the conventional supports 108, 110 of the frame 104 of the treadmill 100.

[0083] According to one embodiment, in combination with the previous embodiment, the first connection interface 218 includes a connector body having a hook portion extending therefrom, the connector body engaging with a first conventional bracket in a conventional bracket, the hook portion engaging with a J-shaped pin of the first conventional bracket.

[0084] According to another embodiment, the second connection interface includes a connector body 222 having a hook portion 224 extending therefrom, the connector body 222 engaging with a second conventional bracket 110 in a conventional bracket, the hook portion 224 engaging with a J-shaped pin 114 of the second conventional bracket 110.

[0085] According to another embodiment, the arc-shaped body 208 (302) is configured to be mounted on the open end of the conveyor belt 102 of the treadmill 100.

[0086] According to another embodiment, in combination with any of the previously described embodiments, the device also includes a controller 232 (316; 404; 504) and sensors 506, 508.

[0087] In this embodiment, sensors 506 and 508 are configured to detect the presence of an object in the entrainment region 230 (301; 501) between the arcuate body 208 (302) and the conveyor belt 102.

[0088] According to one embodiment, in combination with the previous embodiment, controller 232 (316; 504) is configured to cause drive mechanism 236 (320; 512) associated with conveyor belt 102 to stop the rotation of conveyor belt 102 when sensor 506, 508 has detected the presence of an object; or to cause emergency brake 234 (318; 510) associated with conveyor belt 102 to engage and stop the rotation of conveyor belt 102 when sensor 506, 508 has detected the presence of an object.

[0089] According to one embodiment, a method for protecting a user from the impact of the conveyor belt of a treadmill 100 is provided.

[0090] The treadmill 100 has a conveyor belt 102 supported on a frame 104. The conveyor belt 102 has an open end that forms a clamping area 230 (301; 501).

[0091] The method includes installing a protective cover 202 (300; 402; 500) on the open end of the conveyor belt 102 of the treadmill 100 to cover the open end and prevent objects from entering the belt clamping area 230; 301; 501.

[0092] According to one embodiment, in combination with the previous embodiment, the method includes the following steps: detecting when an object is near or inside a carrying area 230 (301; 501) between the protective cover 202 (300; 402; 500) and the conveyor belt 102 of the treadmill (100) by a sensor 228 (311; 400; 502) associated with the treadmill (100) or the protective cover 202 (300; 402; 500) and the conveyor belt 102 of the treadmill 100.

[0093] The method further includes the step of receiving a signal from sensor 228 (311; 400; 502) by controller 232 (316; 404; 504).

[0094] The method also includes the following step: allowing the conveyor belt (102) to operate freely when no object is detected by the controller 232 (316; 404; 504) in the clamping area (230; 301; 501).

[0095] The method further includes the step of stopping the conveyor belt 102 when the controller 232 (316; 404; 504) senses an object in the clamping area 230 (301; 501).

[0096] Figure 17 This is a graphical representation of an exemplary machine in the form of a computer system 1, in which a set of instructions is executable to cause the machine to perform any or more of the methods discussed herein. In various exemplary embodiments, the machine operates as a standalone device or is connectable (e.g., networked) to other machines. In a networked deployment, the machine may operate within the capabilities of a server or client machine in a server-client network environment, or as a peer machine in a peer-to-peer (or distributed) network environment. The machine may be a personal computer (PC), tablet PC, set-top box (STB), personal digital assistant (PDA), cellular phone, portable music player (e.g., a portable hard drive-driven audio device, such as a Mobile Image Experts Group Audio Layer 3 (MP3) player), web facility, network router, switch, or bridge, or any machine capable of executing a set of instructions (sequentially or otherwise) specifying the actions to be taken by the machine. Furthermore, although only a single machine is shown, the term "machine" should also be considered to include any collection of machines that individually or jointly execute one or more sets of instructions to perform any one or more of the methods discussed herein.

[0097] Computer system 1 includes one or more processors 5 (e.g., a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), or both), and main memory 10 and static memory 15, which communicate with each other via bus 20. Computer system 1 may also include a video display 35 (e.g., a liquid crystal display (LCD)). Computer system 1 may also include an alphanumeric input device 30 (e.g., a keyboard), a cursor control device (e.g., a mouse), a voice recognition or biometric authentication unit (not shown), a drive unit 37 (also called a disk drive unit), a signal generation device 40 (e.g., a speaker), and a network interface device 45. Computer system 1 may also include a data encryption module (not shown) for encrypting data.

[0098] The drive unit 37 includes a computer or machine-readable medium 50 on which one or more instruction sets and data structures (e.g., instructions 55) embodying or utilizing any or more of the methods or functions described herein are stored. Instructions 55 may also reside wholly or at least partially within main memory 10 and / or processor 5 during execution by computer system 1. Main memory 10 and processor 5 may also constitute machine-readable media.

[0099] Instructions 55 can also be transmitted or received over a network via network interface device 45 using any of a number of well-known transport protocols (e.g., Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP)). While machine-readable medium 50 is shown as a single medium in the exemplary embodiments, the term "computer-readable medium" should be considered to include a single or multiple media (e.g., a centralized or distributed database and / or associated caches and servers) storing the one or more instruction sets. The term "computer-readable medium" should also be considered to include any medium capable of storing, encoding, or carrying instruction sets for execution by a machine and causing the machine to perform any one or more methods of this application, or any medium capable of storing, encoding, or carrying data structures utilized by or associated with such instruction sets. Therefore, the term "computer-readable medium" should be considered to include, but is not limited to, solid-state storage, optical and magnetic media, and carrier signals. Such media may also include, but is not limited to, hard disks, floppy disks, flash memory cards, digital video disks, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), etc. The exemplary embodiments described herein can be implemented in an operating environment including software installed on a computer, in hardware, or in a combination of software and hardware.

[0100] The components disposed in computer system 1 are those commonly found in computer systems, adapted for use with embodiments of the invention, and intended to represent a broad category of such computer components well known in the art. Thus, computer system 1 can be a personal computer (PC), handheld computer system, telephone, mobile computer system, workstation, tablet computer, tablet phone, mobile phone, server, minicomputer, mainframe computer, wearable computer, or any other computer system. The computer may also include different bus configurations, networking platforms, multiprocessor platforms, etc. Various operating systems can be used, including UNIX, LINUX, WINDOWS, MAC OS, PALM OS, QNX ANDROID, IOS, CHROME, TIZEN, and other suitable operating systems.

[0101] Some of the functions described above may consist of instructions stored on a storage medium (e.g., a computer-readable medium). These instructions can be retrieved and executed by a processor. Some examples of storage media are memory devices, magnetic tapes, disks, etc. When executed by a processor, the instructions are operable to instruct the processor to operate according to the technology. Those skilled in the art are familiar with instructions, processors, and storage media.

[0102] In some embodiments, computer system 1 may be implemented as a cloud-based computing environment, such as a virtual machine operating in a computing cloud. In other embodiments, computer system 1 itself may include a cloud-based computing environment in which the functions of computer system 1 are performed in a distributed manner. Thus, when configured as a computing cloud, computer system 1 may include multiple computing devices of various forms, as will be described in more detail below.

[0103] Typically, a cloud-based computing environment is a resource that combines the computing power of large groups of processors (such as within a web server) and / or the storage capacity of large groups of computer memory or storage devices. Systems providing cloud-based resources can be exclusively used by their owners, or such systems can be accessed by external users who deploy applications within the computing infrastructure to benefit from the large computing or storage resources.

[0104] For example, a cloud is formed by a network of web servers comprising multiple computing devices, such as computer device 1, where each server (or at least multiple servers) provides processor and / or storage resources. These servers manage workloads provided by multiple users (e.g., cloud resource customers or other users). Typically, each user places their workload demands on the cloud in real time, and sometimes even drastically. The nature and extent of these changes usually depend on the type of business associated with the user.

[0105] It is worth noting that any hardware platform suitable for performing the processing described herein is suitable for use with this technology. As used herein, the terms "computer-readable storage medium" and "computer-readable storage media" refer to any medium or media that participates in providing instructions to the CPU for execution. Such media can take many forms, including but not limited to non-volatile media, volatile media, and transmission media. Non-volatile media include, for example, optical discs or magnetic disks, such as fixed disks. Volatile media include dynamic memory, such as system RAM. Transmission media include coaxial cables, copper wires, and optical fibers, etc., containing conductors including one embodiment constituting a bus. Transmission media can also take the form of acoustic or optical waves, such as those generated during radio frequency (RF) and infrared (IR) data communications. Common forms of computer-readable media include, for example, floppy disks, flexible disks, hard disks, magnetic tapes, any other magnetic media, CD-ROMs, digital video discs (DVDs), any other optical media, any other physical media with a pattern of markings or holes, RAM, PROM, EPROM, EEPROM, FLASHEPROM, any other memory chip or data exchange adapter, carrier waves, or any other media from which a computer can read.

[0106] Various forms of computer-readable media may involve transferring one or more sequences of one or more instructions to a CPU for execution. A bus transfers data to system RAM, from which the CPU retrieves and executes the instructions. Instructions received from system RAM may optionally be stored on a fixed disk before or after execution by the CPU.

[0107] Computer program code used to perform operations relating to this technology can be written in any combination of one or more programming languages, including object-oriented programming languages ​​such as Java, Smalltalk, C++, etc., and conventional procedural programming languages ​​such as the "C" programming language or similar programming languages. The program code can be executed entirely on the user's computer, partially on the user's computer, as a standalone software package, partially on the user's computer, partially on a remote computer, or entirely on a remote computer or server. In the latter case, the remote computer can be connected to the user's computer via any type of network (including a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN)), or can be connected to an external computer (e.g., via the Internet using an Internet service provider).

[0108] The above detailed description includes reference to the accompanying drawings, which form part of the detailed description. The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments according to exemplary embodiments. These exemplary embodiments (which are also referred to herein as “examples”) are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the subject matter of the invention. Embodiments may be combined, other embodiments may be utilized, or structural, logical, and electrical variations may be made without departing from the scope of the claims. Therefore, the following detailed description should not be considered limiting, and the scope is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0109] In this document, as is common in patent literature, the terms “a” or “an” are used to include one or more. In this document, the term “or” is used to refer to a non-exclusive “or”, such that “A or B” includes “A but not B,” “B but not A,” and “A and B,” unless otherwise indicated. Furthermore, all publications, patents, and patent documents mentioned in this document are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety, as if individually incorporated by reference. If there is any inconsistency between the usage in this document and those documents incorporated by reference, the usage in the incorporated references shall be considered supplementary to the usage in this document; in the case of irreconcilable inconsistencies, the usage in this document prevails.

[0110] All means or steps plus functional elements in the following claims are intended to include any structure, material, action, and equivalent for performing a function in combination with other claimed elements as specifically claimed. The description of the present technology has been presented for purposes of illustration and description, but it is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the invention in the form disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. Exemplary embodiments have been chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the present technology and its practical application, and to enable others skilled in the art to understand various embodiments of the invention, which have various modifications suitable for the particular intended use.

[0111] While various embodiments have been described above, it should be understood that they are presented by way of example only and not by way of limitation. The description is not intended to limit the scope of the technology to the specific forms described herein. Therefore, the breadth and scope of preferred embodiments should not be limited by any of the exemplary embodiments described above. It should be understood that the above description is illustrative and not restrictive. Rather, the description of the invention is intended to cover such alternatives, modifications, and equivalents that may be included within the scope of the technology defined by the appended claims and otherwise understood by those skilled in the art. Therefore, the scope of the technology should not be determined by reference to the above description, but rather by reference to the full scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A treadmill (100), comprising: A conveyor belt (102) supported on a frame (104) has an open end forming a clamping region (230; 301; 501); Protective covers (202; 300; 402; 500) are installed on the open end of the conveyor belt (102) of the treadmill (100) and cover the open end to prevent objects from entering the belt clamping area (230; 301; 501). Sensors (228; 311; 400; 502), associated with the treadmill (100) or the protective cover (202; 300; 402; 500), which detect when an object is near or inside the clamping area (230; 301; 501) between the protective cover (202; 300; 402; 500) and the conveyor belt (102) of the treadmill (100); as well as A controller (232; 316; 404; 504) is configured to receive signals from the sensors (228; 311; 400; 502), and to allow the conveyor belt (102) to operate freely when no object is detected in the clamping area (230; 301; 501), and to stop the conveyor belt (102) when an object is detected in the clamping area (230; 301; 501).

2. The treadmill (100) of claim 1, wherein, The sensor (502) includes a first sensor element (506) and a second sensor element (508), the first sensor element (506) being disposed on a first side of the conveyor belt (102) and the second sensor element (508) being disposed on a second side of the conveyor belt (102).

3. The treadmill (100) according to claim 2, wherein, The first sensor element (506) and the second sensor element (508) exchange signals, which, when interrupted, indicate that the object is within the entrainment region (501).

4. The treadmill (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The controller (232; 316; 404; 504) is configured to cause the drive mechanism (236; 320; 512) associated with the conveyor belt (102) to stop the rotation of the conveyor belt (102); or to cause the emergency brake (234; 318; 510) associated with the conveyor belt (102) to engage and stop the rotation of the conveyor belt (102).

5. The treadmill (100) according to claim 2, wherein, The frame (104) also includes side covers (116, 118) that enclose the edges of the conveyor belt (102), and the protective cover (500) is configured to engage with one or more of the side covers (116, 118).

6. The treadmill (100) according to claim 5, wherein, The protective cover (300) includes an arcuate body (302) configured to cover part of the open end of the conveyor belt (102), the arcuate body (208; 302) being hingedly connected to the frame (104) of the treadmill (100) using brackets (108, 110; 304, 306) mounted on the treadmill (100).

7. The treadmill (100) according to claim 6, wherein, The protective cover (202) includes: A first component extends from the arcuate body (208); The second component extends from the arcuate body (208) parallel to the first component; A first connection interface (218) is located at the terminal end of the first accessory; and The second connection interface (220) is located at the terminal end of the second accessory, and the first connection interface (218) and the second connection interface (220) are associated with the conventional support (108, 110) of the frame (104) of the treadmill (100).

8. The treadmill (100) according to claim 7, wherein, The first connection interface (218) of the protective cover (202) includes a first connector body having a first hook portion extending from the first connector body, the first connector body cooperating with a first conventional bracket in the conventional brackets (108, 110), the first hook portion engaging with a J-pin of the first conventional bracket.

9. The treadmill (100) according to claim 8, wherein, The second connection interface (220) of the protective cover (202) includes a second connector body (222) having a second hook portion (224) extending from the second connector body. The second connector body (222) mates with a second conventional bracket (110) in the conventional brackets (108, 110), and the second hook portion engages with a J-shaped pin of the second conventional bracket (110).

10. The treadmill (100) according to claim 9, wherein, The protective cover (300) includes a tab (310) that engages with one of the side covers (116, 118) of the treadmill (100), and the first sensor element (506) is associated with the tab (310).

11. The treadmill (100) according to claim 10, wherein, The second sensor element (508) is associated with the side cover (116, 118) of the treadmill (100).

12. A method for protecting a user from the influence of a conveyor belt of a treadmill (100), the treadmill having a conveyor belt (102) supported on a frame (104), the conveyor belt (102) having open ends forming clamping areas (230; 301; 501), the method comprising: Protective covers (202; 300; 402; 500) are installed on the open end of the conveyor belt (102) of the treadmill (100) to cover the open end and prevent objects from entering the belt clamping area (230; 301; 501). Sensors (228; 311; 400; 502) associated with the treadmill (100) or the protective cover (202; 300; 402; 500) detect when an object is near or inside the clamping area (230; 301; 501) between the protective cover (202; 300; 402; 500) and the conveyor belt (102) of the treadmill (100); The controller (232; 316; 404; 504) receives signals from the sensors (228; 311; 400; 502); When no object is detected within the clamping area (230; 301; 501), the controller (232; 316; 404; 504) allows the conveyor belt (102) to operate freely; When an object is sensed within the clamping area (230; 301; 501), the controller (232; 316; 404; 504) stops the conveyor belt (102).

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