Portable Treadmill Flow Generator for Open Water Rehabilitation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing underwater walking and treadmill devices for therapy and training are limited to use in pools with specific flow systems and cannot be used independently or in open water, as they rely on integrated flow systems for resistance, which restricts their application and flexibility.
Innovation Solution
A treadmill and walking belt system with a flow generator on a common frame, connected to a central computer for independent control of the drive, braking, and flow generator, allowing use in any pool or open water, with adjustable speed and resistance, and optional sensors for user position detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a treadmill is permanently inserted into a water tank with an integrated flow system, then the device can provide underwater resistance training, but the device cannot be used independently or in open water environments
Solution Approach 1:
The invention separates the flow generator from the water tank structure, making the flow generator an independent portable unit that can be placed in any water container. This segmentation allows the treadmill to be used in diverse environments without requiring integrated flow systems in the tank itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The flow generator is designed as a universal device that can operate in any water environment (pools, tubs, open water). By making the flow resistance system independent and portable, the treadmill gains multi-environment functionality without being restricted to specific tank designs.
2Ease of operation
If the flow generator and treadmill are controlled independently via central computer, then the training program can be precisely tailored to user needs, but the control system becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The central computer coordinates belt speed and water flow based on user position and training stage, creating a closed-loop control system. Sensors detect user position and load, providing feedback that allows the system to automatically adjust parameters without requiring complex manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The control functions for the treadmill drive/braking device and the flow generator are merged into a single central computer system. This integration simplifies the user interface and coordination, allowing both components to be controlled through a unified program despite the physical separation of the components.
3Measurement precision
If sensors are arranged directly under the treadmill to detect user position, then position detection can be achieved, but the treadmill slides over the sensors under load causing measurement errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses an intermediary approach by placing sensors on the frame structure rather than directly under the moving treadmill belt. This intermediary positioning allows position detection without the sensors being subjected to direct contact and sliding from the loaded belt, maintaining measurement reliability.
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
Enables flexible use in various water environments and allows for tailored therapy and training sessions by coordinating belt speed and water flow according to user needs, enhancing the versatility and effectiveness of underwater training devices.
Implementation Method 1
The flow generator 3 is driven by a turbine 4
Data Source
Figure 1~2
AI summary
The invention relates to a training and/or rehabilitation device in which a walking or running treadmill (2) is arranged in a water container comprising flowing water (9). In order to be able to use said device regardless of the design of the water container, the walking or running treadmill (2) can be inserted in the water container or into free water as a unit together with a flow generator (3).