Composite Resistance Module for Non-Motorized Treadmill

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional non-motorized treadmills with single resistance sources, such as magnetic reluctance, fail to provide sufficient resistance for high-load training and can lead to durability issues with elastic members.

Innovation Solution

A composite resistance module combining magnetic and wind resistance using a reluctance module with a metal member, a fan wheel, and an adjustable mechanism to provide varying resistance levels, including frictional resistance for braking.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Force

If a single magnetic resistance source is used in the non-motorized treadmill, then the device structure is simple and cost-effective, but the resistance capability is insufficient for high-load training requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresistance capabilityVSAvoidresistance module structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ForceVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple resistance sources (magnetic resistance from reluctance module and wind resistance from fan wheel) into a single composite resistance module. This merging approach provides sufficient resistance for high-load training while maintaining structural integration and avoiding excessive complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The resistance module uses composite resistance mechanisms combining magnetic field interaction and aerodynamic drag. The wheel body includes both magnetic members and metal members (aluminum ring), creating a composite structure that generates multiple resistance types simultaneously

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

2Ease of operation

If the magnetic resistance is positioned away from the flywheel to reduce resistance, then the treadmill operation is easier, but the resistance becomes too small for effective training

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetreadmill operation easeVSAvoidresistance magnitude
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSForce

Solution Approach 1:

By combining magnetic resistance and wind resistance in the composite module, the system maintains adequate total resistance even when magnetic resistance is positioned away from the flywheel. The wind resistance from the fan wheel compensates for the reduced magnetic resistance, preserving both ease of operation and training effectiveness

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If elastic members are used for reluctance control in the treadmill, then the resistance adjustment is achievable, but the elastic members fatigue and affect durability

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresistance adjustment capabilityVSAvoiddurability of elastic members
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces elastic members with a cable-based adjusting mechanism. The cable system connects the operating handle to the magnetic resistance module, eliminating elastic members and their associated fatigue problems while maintaining resistance adjustment capability through mechanical cable tensioning

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The composite resistance module offers enhanced resistance capabilities, improved durability, energy efficiency, and user-friendly operation, allowing for adjustable resistance and easy handling of the treadmill.

Implementation Method 1

the rear roller is provided with a reluctance configuration for providing magnetic resistance

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic reluctance: Magnetic Reluctance

Implementation Method 2

one of the rollers is subjected to magnetic resistance and wind resistance when rotated

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectWind resistance: Drag

Implementation Method 3

The contact portion is configured to contact the wheel body for providing a frictional resistance

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS10668313B2Non-motorized treadmill having composite resistance module
Publication Date: 2020.06.02 GREAT FITNESS IND CO LTD
  • US10668313B2 patent drawing
  • US10668313B2 patent drawing
  • US10668313B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A non-motorized treadmill includes a non-motorized treadmill body and a composite resistance module. The non-motorized treadmill body includes two rollers and a treadmill belt. The treadmill belt is wound around the two rollers. The composite resistance module includes a reluctance module and a fan wheel. The reluctance module includes a wheel body and a resistance member. The wheel body is mounted to one of the rollers. The resistance member is located close to the wheel body. One of the wheel body and the resistance member includes a metal member. The other of the wheel body and the resistance member includes a magnetic member. The fan wheel is connected to one side of the wheel body so that one of the rollers is subjected to magnetic resistance and wind resistance when rotated.