Motor-Braked Treadmill Control for Adjustable Resistance Training
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing treadmills lack versatility in accommodating various workout types and user fitness levels, requiring multiple equipment for different rehabilitation and fitness routines.
Innovation Solution
A motorized treadmill with a controller that enables multiple operating modes, including non-motorized, motorized, brake, and torque modes, allowing for adjustable resistance and assistance, suitable for both planar and non-planar surfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional treadmills are designed for single-function use, then device simplicity is maintained, but versatility and adaptability for different workout types are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The motor is designed to operate in multiple modes (non-motorized, motorized, brake, and torque modes) through controller management, allowing a single treadmill to perform diverse functions including weight training, aerobic exercises, and rehabilitation, thereby achieving multi-functionality without requiring separate equipment for each workout type
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between different operating modes based on user needs and workout requirements. The controller adjusts motor operation in real-time, transitioning between disengaged, driven, braking, and torque-assisted states to provide adaptive resistance and assistance, making the treadmill responsive to varying exercise intensities and types
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate fitness equipment are used for different workout types, then workout specialization is achieved, but device quantity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The treadmill is designed as a universal fitness platform that can accommodate weight training, aerobic exercises, and rehabilitation routines through its multiple operating modes. The motor controller enables the same physical equipment to deliver different training stimuli, eliminating the need for users to purchase and maintain separate specialized equipment for each workout category
3Ease of operation
If the motor continuously drives the running belt, then consistent speed control is achieved, but user engagement and workout intensity are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts motor involvement based on the selected workout mode. In non-motorized and brake modes, the motor provides minimal or resistive force, requiring maximum user effort. In motorized and torque modes, the motor provides varying degrees of assistance. This dynamic adjustment allows the same equipment to cater to both passive speed-controlled workouts and active user-engagement workouts
4Adaptability or versatility
If the treadmill supports both planar and non-planar surfaces, then surface versatility is improved, but mechanical complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The treadmill is designed with a versatile running surface system that can accommodate both planar and non-planar configurations. The motor and controller system adapts to different surface geometries, allowing the same mechanical platform to support varied terrain simulations without requiring entirely separate mechanical systems for each surface type
Data Source
AI summary
A treadmill includes a frame; a running belt configured to rotate relative to the frame; and a motor coupled to the running belt. The motor is operable in a plurality of user controlled operating modes. In a first operating mode, a holding torque of the motor is disabled to allow the running belt to substantially freely rotate so that a user of the treadmill provides a force of rotation to the running belt. In a second operating mode, the motor is adapted to resist rotation of the running belt.