Mechanical assembly for treadmill

Abstract

Various devices, systems, methods, and apparatus utilize a mechanical assembly to prevent, detect, and / or slow an object from entering or moving close to or below a treadmill or exercise machine. In some embodiments, the guard or guard assembly is attached to or otherwise secured to the rear region of the treadmill. The guard assembly may include an end cap and a pivoting guard configured to retrofit to an existing treadmill, such as to a rear end or rear region of a platform or frame of a treadmill.

Description

Background Art

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 382,469, filed on November 4, 2022, entitled MECHANICAL ASSEMBLIES FOR A TREADMILL, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 502,301, filed on May 15, 2023, entitled MECHANICAL ASSEMBLIES FOR ATREADMILL, the entireties of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference. Background Art

[0002] A treadmill or other exercise machine may have a moving surface that is controlled by a motor. The moving surface may move on a platform or other support assembly and may be a belt-based surface, a slat-based surface, or other type of surface that moves around a platform, thereby enabling a user (e.g., a runner) to walk, jog, and / or run at varying speeds or inclines.

[0003] Typically, treadmills may have various safety mechanisms, such as a key or other component that stops the treadmill from operating during unsafe or unexpected operation (e.g., when a user leaves the moving surface). However, there may be disadvantages associated with typical safety mechanisms because they may be particularly focused on the user running / walking on the treadmill. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0004] The embodiments of the present technology will be described and explained by using the drawings.

[0005] Figures 1A to 1B It is a diagram illustrating a treadmill having a protective assembly.

[0006] Figure 2 is a diagram illustrating example components of a guard assembly for a treadmill.

[0007] Figures 3A to 3C is a diagram illustrating example components of a coupling mechanism for a guard assembly.

[0008] Figures 4A to 4B 2 is a diagram illustrating a guard assembly having a pivoting guard.

[0009] Figure 5 is a diagram illustrating example positions of a pivoting guard of a guard assembly.

[0010] Figure 6 1 is a diagram illustrating an example rear guard assembly.

[0011] Figure 7 1 is a diagram illustrating the electrical components of the treadmill and the rear guard assembly.

[0012] Figure 8 is a diagram illustrating an example rear guard assembly having two rear guards.

[0013] In the accompanying drawings, some components are not drawn to scale in order to discuss some embodiments of the present technology, and some components and / or operations may be separated into different blocks or combined into a single block. In addition, although the present technology is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments have been shown by way of example in the accompanying drawings and described in detail below. However, it is not intended to limit the present technology to the specific embodiments described. On the contrary, the present technology is intended to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives that fall within the scope of the present technology as defined by the appended claims. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0014] Overview

[0015] Various devices, systems, methods, and apparatus utilize mechanical assemblies to prevent, detect, and / or mitigate the entry or movement of objects into or near or beneath a treadmill or exercise machine. In some embodiments, a guard or guard assembly is attached to or otherwise secured to a rear region of a treadmill (e.g., replacing an end cap). For example, the guard assembly may include an end cap and a pivoting guard configured to be retrofitted to an existing treadmill, such as to the rear end or rear region of a treadmill's deck or frame.

[0016] The guard assembly protects or otherwise prevents objects (e.g., solid or deformable objects) from moving under the treadmill or being pulled under the treadmill by the moving belt or slat-based surface. In some cases, the guard assembly includes a switch or signaling mechanism (e.g., a trigger) that causes the treadmill to adjust its current operation (e.g., slowing or stopping the moving belt or slat-based surface) when the assembly is disengaged or pivoted away from the treadmill.

[0017] In some embodiments, the treadmill may include an infrared beam (IR) trigger mechanism positioned below the treadmill's deck (e.g., near the rear). The IR mechanism can detect objects striking the IR beam (or beams) and modify current operation, such as slowing down, shutting down, or otherwise adjusting to a different operating state.

[0018] In some embodiments, the treadmill may include other mechanical or sensor-based detection mechanisms or components. For example, the treadmill may include one or more inclinometers, accelerometers, gyroscopes, or other sensors that can detect that the rear portion of the treadmill has moved upward, tilted at an angle, or is otherwise abnormal and cause the treadmill to modify its current operation, such as slowing down, shutting down, or otherwise adjusting to a different operating state.

[0019] Thus, in various embodiments, the guard assembly can be a stand-alone assembly by which the pivoting guard can be positioned at the rear end of the treadmill and the position of the guard can be monitored during operation. Thus, in some cases, the guard assembly can utilize only its own components to position the guard, attach the guard, and / or determine when the guard moves between open and closed positions, among other benefits.

[0020] Various embodiments of the apparatus, devices, systems, and methods will now be described. The following description provides specific details for a thorough understanding and feasible description of these embodiments. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that these embodiments can be practiced without many of these details. In addition, some well-known structures or functions may not be shown or described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the relevant descriptions of the various embodiments. The terms used in the descriptions presented below are intended to be interpreted in their broadest reasonable manner, even when used in conjunction with detailed descriptions of certain specific embodiments.

[0021] Examples of guard assemblies

[0022] In some embodiments, the technology described herein involves various mechanical or sensor-based techniques that prevent objects from entering the area beneath a treadmill deck, or that modify the operation of a treadmill when an object is detected or determined to have entered or been prevented from entering the area beneath the treadmill.

[0023] As described herein, in some embodiments, a rear guard or guard assembly is attached or otherwise secured to a rear area of ​​a treadmill, such as via (or in place of) the treadmill's end caps. The guard assembly protects or otherwise prevents objects (e.g., solid or deformable objects) from being pulled under the treadmill by the moving belt or slat-based surface.

[0024] In some cases, the guard assembly can detach or pivot away in response to certain force vectors being applied to the assembly. For example, a rear guard may include a pivoting guard that is removably or releasably attached to the rear of the treadmill via magnets (e.g., magnets within end caps on one or both sides), thereby allowing the guard to detach or otherwise pivot away from the end caps of the assembly in response to forces applied in certain magnitudes and / or directions.

[0025] In some cases, the guard assembly is secured so that there is a minimum gap or spacing between the outer guard and the rear of the treadmill (e.g., forming a gap between the moving belt or surface and the outer guard). In some cases, the guard assembly covers or guards the lower portion of the treadmill. For example, the guard may be positioned on the lower half of the end of the treadmill or along the curve of the end of the treadmill (e.g., between 70 and 100 degrees from vertical) and prevent objects from contacting the moving belt or slat-based surface (slat surface) as it moves downward and under the treadmill deck.

[0026] Thus, the guard is positioned to protect and / or cover the lower portion of the moving surface, such as the portion of the moving surface that curves around the deck of the treadmill, as the moving surface moves around the rear of the treadmill and under the treadmill.

[0027] Figures 1A to 1B is a diagram illustrating a treadmill 100 having a guard assembly. Treadmill 100 includes a platform 110 or frame, which may include sidewalls 115 extending from a front area of ​​the treadmill to a rear area of ​​the treadmill. A moving surface 120 (e.g., a slat-based belt or other belt structure) moves around platform 110 during treadmill operation, thereby providing a moving running or walking surface for a user of treadmill 100. The treadmill may also include a display 112 that presents content to the user, such as workouts, interactive games, user metrics, entertainment, alerts, etc., and / or one or more controls 114, such as a rotary control, a user interface element, a navigation button (e.g., an on / off button, a belt speed control), etc.

[0028] Treadmill 100 includes a guard assembly 130. Guard assembly 130 is configured to be secured or attached to a rear area of ​​platform 110. For example, guard assembly 130 may be secured to sidewalls 115 of platform 110, but separate from sidewalls 115. Thus, in various embodiments, guard assembly 130 may be retrofitted to different treadmills because it may function without any use of components that are part of platform 110 or the frame of treadmill 100. For example, guard assembly 130 may replace one or more end caps or end components on a treadmill when installed or retrofitted to the treadmill.

[0029] The guard assembly 130 includes an end cap 140 and a guard member 150. The end cap 140 and the guard member 150 can be in a closed position when the treadmill is in use (see FIG. Figure 1A ) and can be in the open position (see Figure 1B), which prevents use of the treadmill. As described herein, end cap 140 is configured to be secured to the rear end or rear region of deck 110 of treadmill 100 so that belt 120 can move around deck 110 unimpeded to the underside of treadmill 100. As depicted, guard 150 is positioned to cover a lower region of the rear end of deck 110, e.g., the region of deck 110 where belt 120 descends below deck 110 of treadmill 100.

[0030] The guard 150 can be formed of a rigid material, such as steel or another metal, and can include one or more rigid structural components, such as one or more horizontal ribs or braces, that provide structural support or otherwise strengthen the guard 150 so that it does not flex during movement or when struck or bumped by an object. In some cases, the guard 150 can be a composite of metal and plastic, or can include a magnetic component that facilitates magnetic coupling with the end cap when the guard is positioned in the closed position.

[0031] Figure 2 FIG200 is a diagram illustrating an example of a treadmill 100 having a guard assembly with a pivotally disengaged guard. The guard assembly includes an end cap 210 and a guard 220 that is releasably and / or pivotally attached to the end cap 210. The end cap 210 includes a coupling mechanism 230 (on both sides of the end cap 210) that secures, attaches, or couples the guard 220 (e.g., the top portion) to the end cap 210.

[0032] The coupling mechanism 230 is positioned or disposed within an interior region of the end cap 210, such as on an interior surface of the end cap 210. As described herein, the coupling mechanism can be attached (e.g., threaded) to the interior surface of the end cap 210, or integrated into (partially housed in) the end cap 210.

[0033] The guard 220 is secured to the end cap 210 via a pivot assembly 225 (e.g., at a lower portion of the guard 220). When in a closed position (not shown), the guard 220 is held or positioned proximate to the rear of the platform 110 via a coupling mechanism 230. For example, the top portion 224 is positioned proximate to the coupling mechanism 230 and held in place via one or more magnets of the coupling mechanism 230, and the body 222 of the guard 220 covers and / or protects a lower section of the platform 110, such as the area where the belt 120 moves downward and enters the lower area of ​​the platform 110. The body 222 may include brackets 226 or straps that provide support for the body 222 of the guard 220.

[0034] Coupling mechanism 230 also includes an electromechanical switch coupled to the electrical system of treadmill 200. Switch 240 is positioned proximate to the magnet and is used to send a signal indicating whether guard 220 is in a closed position (e.g., coupled to magnet 230) and / or an open position (e.g., Figure 2 ), where guard 220 is not coupled to magnet 230 and has pivoted away from end cap 210.

[0035] In some cases, coupling mechanism 230 may include a shape or housing that supports the attachment of the top portion of guard 220 to end cap 210, one or more magnets that releasably secure or attach guard 220 to end cap 210, and a switch or other component that sends a signal to treadmill 200 regarding the status of guard 220 (e.g., whether guard 220 is open, closed, or moving).

[0036] Figures 3A to 3B An example coupling mechanism 300 is illustrated. As shown, the coupling mechanism 300 includes a cover 305 or housing (e.g., Figure 3A ), a cover 305 or housing houses a magnet 310 and a switch 320 (as shown in FIG. Figure 3B , with the cover 305 removed), wherein the magnet 310 is positioned below the switch. The switch 320 operates to transmit information regarding whether the guard 220 is coupled to the magnet 310. Thus, the magnet 310 secures and / or positions the guard in place (e.g., positioned to support the weight of the guard, such as at the body or center section of the guard), and the switch 320 operates to transmit a signal indicating whether the guard is in the open position or the closed position.

[0037] In some cases, the coupling mechanism 300 can include multiple magnets, such as two magnets. For example, the coupling mechanism 300 can include a number of magnets that facilitate removably securing the guard in a closed position, where the number is based on the size of the magnets, the power of the magnets, and / or the weight of the guard.

[0038] Although Figures 3A to 3B The coupling mechanism 300 is depicted with the magnet 310 positioned below the switch 320 , but other configurations are possible. Figure 3C Another example coupling mechanism 350 is illustrated. As shown, the coupling mechanism 350 includes a receiving shelf 360 that receives a top portion of a guard, such as a hook-shaped portion that can fit or be placed onto the shelf 360. The coupling mechanism 350 also includes a magnet 310 and a switch 320, wherein the magnet 310 is positioned above the switch 320.

[0039] Return Reference Figure 2In some embodiments, rear guard 220 is mounted to a pivot assembly 225 or similar pivot point below or beneath the rear rollers of treadmill 200. Pivot assembly 225, which may be part of end cap 210, may also facilitate disengagement of guard 220, as described herein. For example, guard 220 may pivot away from treadmill 200 if an object enters an opening between guard 220 and the treadmill (e.g., belt 120 or rollers).

[0040] The action of pivoting guard 220 or disengaging coupling mechanism 230 may modify the operation of treadmill 200 (e.g., stopping or slowing the belt or moving surface), such as by shutting off power to treadmill 200 via switch 320. For example, when guard 220 pivots away from belt 120 beyond a certain distance (e.g., 5 mm or more) or partially detaches from magnet 310 and / or coupling mechanism 230 or 300, switch 320 or switches 320 cause the electrical system or safety system of treadmill 200 to stop or slow the movement of belt 120.

[0041] Figures 4A to 4B 4 is a diagram illustrating components of a treadmill 400 and a guard assembly 410. As described herein, end caps 420 may be fitted (or retrofitted) to the deck 405 of the treadmill 400. A slat-based belt 407 moves over and around the rear area of ​​the deck 405, which is protected by the guard assembly 410. Shown in a closed position ( Figure 4A ) or open position ( Figure 4B ) is connected or coupled to end cap 420 via pivot assembly 435. Guard 430 may include a bumper 437 to protect guard 430 when guard 430 disengages and contacts the floor or other surface supporting treadmill 400, and a bracket 439 or support element to provide additional mechanical support to guard 430.

[0042] End cap 420 includes magnet 440 and electromechanical switch 450. Guard 430 is positioned proximate magnet 440 and switch 450 when in the closed position, such as by being attached to a coupling mechanism via magnet 440. In some cases, end cap 420 includes a lower fixed guard 460, such as a second guard covering a lower area of ​​the deck of treadmill 400.

[0043] As described herein, when the guard 430, which may be formed of metal (e.g., steel) or include metal components, is in the closed position (see Figure 4A ), magnets 440 (e.g., one of two magnets, one magnet each positioned on one side of treadmill 400) secure guard 430 to end cap 410. However, when some force is applied to guard 430, the guard detaches from the magnetic coupling (e.g., the force overcomes the magnetic force), and guard 430 moves to the open position (see Figure 4B ). As described herein, this movement may trigger (eg, via switch 450) treadmill 400 to stop moving the belt or otherwise modify the current operation of the treadmill.

[0044] As depicted, a guard (eg, guard 430, 220, or 150) may extend to certain locations relative to a rear area of ​​the treadmill. Figure 5 is a diagram 500 illustrating example positions of a pivoting guard of a guard assembly.

[0045] For example, treadmill 500 may have guard 510 with top portion 515 positioned or located along the curved section of the platform, e.g., between 70 and 110 degrees relative to the vertical axis of the platform. As another example, top portion 515 may be located between 2:00 and 5:00 clockwise along the curved section of the platform. As shown, top portion 515 is positioned approximately 80 degrees from vertical, or approximately 2:20 clockwise.

[0046] Therefore, placed in Figure 5 The guard 510 in the various positions shown in Figure 5 prevents objects from moving beneath the moving surface without introducing additional problems associated with other configurations (e.g., configurations in which the guard terminates at or near zero degrees vertical or parallel to the running surface of the treadmill).

[0047] Thus, in various embodiments, the guard assembly includes a guard member that extends partially around the platform from the bottom or lower region of the platform, thereby covering and / or protecting the lower region of the platform (e.g., the underside of the platform), rather than the entire rear region of the platform. The guard assembly, via the end caps and associated coupling mechanisms, facilitates extending the guard member partially around the platform to various positions that facilitate covering the belt as it is lowered beneath the treadmill deck.

[0048] Because the guard assembly utilizes or includes a steel guard (or another rigid material or composition), the guard assembly can activate a trigger to stop the treadmill based on certain conditions. For example, when the guard is not flexible or does not bend easily, an object striking the guard (but not causing it to detach or break away) may not cause a false alarm or trigger the treadmill.

[0049] Furthermore, utilizing the pivot and stop assemblies described herein, the guard assembly, via the end caps and coupling mechanism, can provide a functional guard assembly regardless of mechanical tolerances introduced when manufacturing the guard assembly. For example, the guard is secured at each end via a pivot and magnets and can therefore move or flex slightly in position without triggering a switch or moving out of position.

[0050] In some embodiments, the end caps include a coupling mechanism (e.g., a magnet and a switch) on each side of the rear area of ​​the treadmill, and when the two switches (e.g., using series logic) are activated by the guards being disengaged from their associated magnets, a trigger or signal is sent that the guard is in the open position.

[0051] In some embodiments, trigger logic operates to signal the guard is open when both switches detect a small or similar movement (e.g., approximately 1 mm) away from each switch, thereby maintaining treadmill operation while one side of the guard remains secured to the magnet. Using this logic, the treadmill can more efficiently determine whether the guard is open or disengaged (rather than simply flexing or moving in a closed position), thereby stopping or modifying operation, among other benefits.

[0052] For example, a safety mechanism for a treadmill may perform the following operations—receive signals in series or in parallel from two or more switches integrated into the end caps of the treadmill, where the switches are activated when the guard is detached from a magnet associated with the switch, and modify the operation of the treadmill when signals are received from two switches (one on each side of the guard).

[0053] As described herein, various embodiments of the guard assembly facilitate retrofitting or modifying a treadmill having a pivoting guard. Thus, the guard assembly includes a guard and associated components (e.g., switches, magnets, stops) configured or operable to determine the position of the guard, and can function as a standalone assembly that can be secured to the rear end of a treadmill without relying on any components of the treadmill's deck or frame to support the guard or determine its position.

[0054] Furthermore, the guard assembly may be part of an end cap, wherein the end cap includes the guard assembly and may be retrofitted to an existing treadmill and / or may operate without the use of other components of the treadmill, such as components that are part of the treadmill's frame.

[0055] Example of guard assembly configuration

[0056] As described herein, the guard assembly may include components or features that facilitate disengagement or detachment of the guard in response to certain forces applied to the guard. In some cases, the guard assembly may be retrofitted to different treadmills, thereby avoiding the use of treadmill components to support the guard and / or detect its movement or position, among other benefits.

[0057] Figure 6 A portion of a treadmill 600 is depicted having a guard assembly 605 attached (removably) to a platform or base 610 of the treadmill 600. The guard assembly 605 includes a rear guard 620 that is configured to disengage from the treadmill's platform 610. The platform 610 may be supported by feet 615 or other support structure.

[0058] Guard assembly 605 may include various features that prevent or limit the movement of objects under deck 610 of treadmill 600, including a rear guard 620 and / or an auxiliary guard 630, which may include a gap or channel. Further details regarding the structure of auxiliary guard 630 (and details regarding suitable treadmills) can be found in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17 / 939,877, filed Sep. 7, 2022, entitled GUARD ASSEMBLY FOR EXERCISE MACHINE, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference.

[0059] Guard assembly 605 also includes a switch 625 that is triggered when rear guard 620 is disengaged or otherwise moved out of its secured position. Switch 625, when actuated, causes treadmill 600 to modify the operation of the moving surface of platform 610, such as to slow down movement, stop movement, decelerate movement, and the like.

[0060] Figure 7 FIG700 is a diagram depicting additional details regarding components suitable for modifying the operation of treadmill 600. As shown, switch 625, which may function as a power interlock switch, is connected or coupled to a power cable 710 (e.g., a molded-in disconnect cable). Power cable 710 extends and connects to an IEC cord 720, which may have a C13 connector or other connector that connects to the treadmill housing. A NEMA cord 730 is coupled to IEC 720 to facilitate powering the treadmill from an AC or other power source.

[0061] Cable management assembly 740 (e.g., adhesive backing or magnetic attachment) can be used to contain or maintain cables to the platform of treadmill 600. This arrangement avoids various connections to other components of treadmill 600 (e.g., MCB, smart card, or tablet computer). Thus, treadmill 600 can accommodate and contain all components used to protect the rear of treadmill 600 and modify its operation without requiring any software / hardware updates or connections to associated displays, tablet computers, MCBs, etc., among other benefits. In addition, as described herein, guard assembly 605 and associated connections can be used as a kit to be retrofitted or installed on treadmills that lack rear protection or guarding.

[0062] Figure 8 FIG2 is a treadmill 800 showing additional details of the guard assembly. Guard 620 includes a detent 810 that disengages after a certain level of force is applied to guard 620 (in different directions). Guard 820 can be placed at different locations on the rear of treadmill 800, such as at a 2:30 to 5:50 clockwise position around the rear of the deck (or other positions as described herein).

[0063] The platform also includes an auxiliary guard 820 that can be placed at the 5:30 to 6:00 clockwise position as shown. Guard 820 can be a friction block guard with a small gap for the slats applied to the moving surface when guard 620 is disengaged from the treadmill.

[0064] In some cases, the clearance size of the treadmill includes a top clearance of 5 to 9 mm for the guard 620, a bottom clearance of 1.5 to 5 mm for the guard 620 (when in place), or 0 mm (when detached and in physical contact with the slats of the deck). Thus, as shown, the guard assembly can protect the treadmill without clearance adjustment when installed, can provide a single-sided tether to prevent loss of the guard 620, can generate heat and wear at the contact interface, and so on.

[0065] The guard assembly may include other features as described herein, such as a pivot that connects the bottom portion of the guard to the platform and allows the guard to pivot in response to an applied force. In some cases, the pivot may also be removably attached and facilitate the guard's detachment from the rear of the treadmill upon application of a certain force. The pivot may allow the guard to pivot downward (in a clockwise manner), for example, about an axis parallel to the treadmill's rollers.

[0066] As described herein, in some embodiments, a treadmill may include an infrared beam (IR) trigger mechanism positioned below the treadmill's deck (e.g., near the rear). The IR mechanism can detect objects striking the IR beam (or beams) and modify current operation, such as slowing down, shutting down, or otherwise adjusting to a different operating state.

[0067] For example, the trigger mechanism may include an IR beam assembly that emits an IR beam and is positioned on one side in the area below the treadmill's deck, and an IR sensor that detects or receives the emitted IR beam and is positioned on the opposite side below the treadmill's deck. When an object moves or is positioned below the deck, the object contacts or strikes the IR beam, causing the sensor to miss the beam.

[0068] When the sensor does not receive the light beam, the sensor may send a signal to the treadmill (e.g., to the treadmill's safety control panel) indicating that an object may be under or moving under the treadmill's deck. In response, the treadmill may slow down, shut down, warn the user, or otherwise adjust or modify to a different operating state.

[0069] In some cases, multiple IR beams (and associated sensors) may be positioned beneath the treadmill's deck. Each sensor (as part of a trigger mechanism) may be associated with a different signal, and the treadmill may perform different actions based on which IR beam has been contacted by an object. For example, when the IR beam closest to the rear of the treadmill is blocked, the treadmill alerts the user and slows down operation of the running surface. However, when a second IR beam positioned inboard of the rear IR beam is blocked (e.g., perhaps indicating that an object is completely beneath the deck), the treadmill may alert the user and shut down operation.

[0070] In some cases, the entire area beneath the treadmill can be monitored by the IR beam. For example, the IR beam (and associated sensor) can be positioned or located below the side of the platform, toward the front of the platform, etc. Thus, the configuration of the beam assembly and sensor can detect when an object enters the area beneath the treadmill from the rear, side, and / or front of the treadmill.

[0071] As described herein, in some embodiments, a treadmill may include other mechanical or sensor-based detection mechanisms or components. For example, a treadmill may include one or more inclinometers, accelerometers, gyroscopes, or other sensors that can detect that the rear portion of the treadmill has moved upward, tilted at an angle, or is otherwise abnormal and cause the treadmill to modify its current operation, such as slowing down, shutting down, or otherwise adjusting to a different operating state.

[0072] Thus, in various embodiments, a treadmill or other similar exercise machine may employ or implement various combinations of the mechanical assemblies and sensors described herein. For example, a guard assembly may be used to prevent objects from entering or moving under the platform, while sensors may also be used to perform a shutoff operation (or other mitigation operation) when an object may enter or otherwise be prevented from moving under the platform. Thus, a treadmill may incorporate various combinations of the techniques described herein.

[0073] Example embodiments of the disclosed technology

[0074] In some embodiments, a treadmill includes a platform, a belt that moves around the platform, and a guard assembly. The guard assembly includes a pivot guard positioned at a rear region of the platform and an end cap coupled to an end of the platform and configured to releasably attach the pivot guard to the end of the platform.

[0075] In some cases, the top portion of the pivot guard is positioned at a location along the curved section of the platform. In some cases, the top portion of the pivot guard is positioned at a location between 2:00 and 5:00 clockwise along the curved section of the platform.

[0076] In some cases, the end cap further includes a switch that causes the treadmill to modify current operation when the pivot guard moves beyond a certain threshold distance.

[0077] In some cases, the end cap further includes magnets that releasably attach the top portion of the pivot guard to the end of the deck and a switch that causes the treadmill to modify current operation when the pivot guard is partially detached from the magnets of the end cap.

[0078] In some cases, the guard assembly includes a pivot that attaches a lower portion of the pivoting guard to the end cap.

[0079] In some cases, the belt that moves around the platform is a slat-based belt.

[0080] In some cases, the top portion of the pivot guard includes a hook shape that releasably attaches to the end cap.

[0081] In some embodiments, a guard assembly includes a guard positioned at a rear area of ​​a treadmill's deck, a pivot assembly that secures a lower portion of the guard to a lower section of the rear area of ​​the deck, and an end cap configured to couple to an end of the treadmill's deck, wherein the end cap includes a magnet that releasably attaches a center portion of the guard to the end cap.

[0082] In some cases, the end cap further includes a switch positioned proximate the magnet and configured to send a signal to the treadmill indicating that the guard has been detached from the magnet.

[0083] In some cases, the top portion of the guard is positioned along a curved section of the deck of the treadmill.

[0084] In some cases, the top portion of the guard is positioned between 2:00 and 5:00 clockwise along the curved section of the platform. In some cases, the top portion of the guard is positioned at 80 degrees from vertical along the curved section of the platform. In some cases, the top portion of the guard includes a hook shape that releasably attaches to the inner section of the end cap. In some cases, the top portion of the guard includes a bumper.

[0085] In some cases, the end cap is configured to be secured to a rear area of ​​the deck of a treadmill.

[0086] In some cases, the guard is formed of metal and includes one or more structural ribs or brackets.

[0087] In some embodiments, a treadmill includes a platform, a slat-based belt that moves around the platform, and an end cap secured to a rear end of the platform. The end cap includes a pivot disposed at a lower portion of the end cap and a guard secured to the pivot and releasably attached to a top portion of the end cap, wherein the guard has a curved shape and extends from the lower portion of the end cap to a position of the end cap between 70 and 100 degrees from vertical.

[0088] In some cases, the guard includes a metal body and a hook-shaped end.

[0089] In some cases, the end caps include a coupling mechanism positioned at each side of the treadmill, the coupling mechanism including magnets that releasably attach the body or center portion of the guard to the end caps and a switch positioned proximate the magnets and configured to send a signal to the treadmill indicating that the guard has been detached from the magnets.

[0090] In some cases, the end cap includes a coupling mechanism at each side of the end cap, wherein a switch in each coupling mechanism sends a signal to the treadmill indicating that the guard has been detached from the magnet.

[0091] In some cases, the treadmill modifies operation based on receiving signals from two switches on the end cap rather than from a single switch on the end cap.

[0092] in conclusion

[0093] Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout this description and claims, the words "comprise," "comprising," and the like are to be interpreted in an inclusive sense and not in an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is, in the sense of "including but not limited to." As used herein, the terms "connected," "coupled," or any variations thereof, mean any connection or coupling (direct or indirect) between two or more elements; the connection or coupling between the elements may be physical, logical, or a combination thereof. Additionally, the words "herein," "above," "below," and words of similar meaning, when used in this application, shall refer to this application as a whole and not to any particular parts of this application. Where the context permits, words in the above detailed description that use the singular or plural may also include the plural or singular, respectively. The word "or" with respect to a list of two or more items encompasses all of the following interpretations of the word: any of the items in the list, all of the items in the list, and any combination of the items in the list.

[0094] The above detailed description of the embodiments of the present disclosure is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the teachings to the precise forms disclosed above. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the relevant art, although specific embodiments and examples of the present disclosure are described above for illustrative purposes, various equivalent modifications are possible within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0095] The teachings of the disclosure provided herein can be applied to other systems, not necessarily the systems described above.The elements and acts of the various embodiments described above can be combined to provide further embodiments.

[0096] Any patents and applications and other references mentioned above (including any patents and applications and references that may be listed in the accompanying filing documents) are incorporated herein by reference. If necessary, aspects of the present disclosure can be modified to adopt the systems, functions, and concepts of the various references described above to provide further embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0097] In view of the above detailed description, these and other changes can be made to the present disclosure. Although the above description describes certain embodiments of the present disclosure and describes the best mode considered, no matter how detailed the above appears in the text, the teachings can still be put into practice in many ways. The details of the technology can vary significantly in the details of its implementation, but are still covered by the subject matter disclosed herein. As mentioned above, the specific terms used when describing certain features or aspects of the present disclosure should not be interpreted as implying that the terms are redefined herein to be limited to any specific characteristics, features or aspects of the present disclosure associated with that term. In general, the terms used in the appended claims should not be interpreted as limiting the present disclosure to the specific embodiments disclosed in the specification, unless such terms are explicitly defined in the above detailed description section. Therefore, the actual scope of the present disclosure covers not only the disclosed embodiments, but also all equivalent ways of practicing or implementing the present disclosure under the claims.

[0098] It will be apparent from the foregoing that specific embodiments have been described herein for purposes of illustration, but various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the embodiments. Accordingly, the embodiments are not to be restricted, except as by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A treadmill comprising: platform; a slat-based belt that moves around the platform; and an end cap secured to a rear end of the platform, wherein the end cap comprises; a pivot disposed at a lower portion of the end cover; a guard fixed to the pivot and releasably attached to a top portion of the end cap, The guard has a curved shape and extends from the lower portion of the end cover to a position of the end cover that is between 70 and 100 degrees from the vertical direction.

2. The treadmill according to claim 1, wherein the guard comprises: Metal body; and Hooked end.

3. The treadmill of claim 1 , wherein the end caps include a coupling mechanism at each side of the treadmill, the coupling mechanism comprising: a magnet that releasably attaches the center portion of the guard to the end cap; and A switch is positioned proximate the magnet and is configured to send a signal to the treadmill indicating that the guard has been detached from the magnet.

4. A treadmill comprising: platform; a belt that moves around the platform; and A protective assembly comprising: a pivoting guard positioned at a rear region of the platform; and An end cap is coupled to an end of the platform and is configured to releasably attach the pivot guard to the end of the platform.

5. The treadmill of claim 4, wherein a top portion of the pivot guard is positioned along a curved section of the deck.

6. The treadmill of claim 5, wherein the top portion of the pivot guard is positioned at 80 degrees from a vertical axis of the treadmill.

7. The treadmill of claim 4, wherein the end cap further comprises: A switch causes the treadmill to modify current operation when the pivot guard moves beyond a threshold distance.

8. The treadmill of claim 4, wherein the end cap further comprises: a magnet that releasably attaches a main portion of the pivot guard to the end of the platform; and A switch causes the treadmill to modify current operation when the rotation guard is partially disengaged from the magnet of the end cap.

9. The treadmill of claim 4, wherein the guard assembly includes a pivot attaching a lower portion of the pivoting guard to the end cap.

10. The treadmill of claim 4, wherein the belt that moves about the deck is a slat-based belt.

11. The treadmill of claim 4, wherein the top portion of the pivot guard includes a hook shape that releasably attaches to the end cap.

12. A protective assembly for a treadmill, comprising: a guard positioned at a rear area of ​​the treadmill's deck; a pivot assembly securing a lower portion of the guard to a lower section of the rear region of the platform; and an end cap configured to couple to an end of the deck of the treadmill, wherein the end cap comprises: A magnet releasably attaches the guard to the end cap.

13. The shielding assembly of claim 12, wherein the end cap further comprises: A switch is positioned proximate the magnet and is configured to send a signal to the treadmill indicating that the guard has been detached from the magnet.

14. The guard assembly of claim 12, wherein a top portion of the guard is disposed at a location along a curved section of the deck of the treadmill.

15. The guard assembly of claim 12, wherein the top portion of the guard is disposed at a position between 2:00 and 5:00 clockwise along the curved section of the platform.

16. The guard assembly of claim 12, wherein the top portion of the guard is disposed at 80 degrees from vertical along the curved section of the platform.

17. The guard assembly of claim 12, wherein the top portion of the guard comprises a hook shape that releasably attaches to an inner section of the end cap.

18. The guard assembly of claim 12, wherein the magnet is positioned to releasably attach the body of the guard to the end cap.

19. The guard assembly of claim 12, wherein the end cap is configured to be secured to the rear region of the deck of the treadmill.

20. The guard assembly of claim 12, wherein the guard is formed of metal and includes one or more structural ribs and one or more brackets.

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