Single Belt Omni-Directional Treadmill Design
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing omni-directional treadmills require multiple belts and complex connections, leading to unnecessary tension adjustments and a disconnected user experience due to lack of inertia and balance feedback.
Innovation Solution
A single conveyor belt omni-directional treadmill with cross beams attached to roller chains, powered by motors and omnidirectional wheels, and a dynamic control interface that includes tilting and adjustable weight simulation to enhance user experience.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple belts are used to achieve omni-directional movement, then the treadmill can move in multiple directions, but the device complexity and construction difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple belt functions into a single continuous belt that loops around all four treadmill segments. This single belt design eliminates the need for separate belts on each segment and removes the complex connection mechanisms between segments, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining omni-directional movement capability
Solution Approach 2:
The single continuous belt serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides the moving surface for all four treadmill segments, transmits power across all segments, and enables movement in multiple directions. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate dedicated belts for each function or segment
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple belts are used, then each segment can be independently powered, but the tension adjustment and maintenance complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the tensioning systems of all four segments into a single unified tensioning mechanism. Since the belt is continuous and loops around all segments, adjusting the tension at one point automatically adjusts the tension across all segments, eliminating the need for individual tension adjustments on each segment and significantly simplifying maintenance
3Device complexity
If the treadmill remains stationary, then the structure is simple, but the user experiences a disconnected sensation without inertia feedback
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic tilting capabilities to the treadmill structure, allowing the platform to tilt in response to user acceleration and movement. This dynamic adjustment creates inertial feedback sensations for the user, making them feel as though they are actually moving and accelerating, while the treadmill itself remains physically stationary
Solution Approach 2:
The treadmill incorporates a control system that provides feedback to the user through tilting movements. Sensors detect user acceleration and movement, and the system responds by tilting the platform accordingly, creating a closed-loop feedback mechanism that simulates real-world inertial effects and improves user balance and immersion
Data Source
AI summary
A treadmill having a belt assembly allows a user the walk or run in any direction. A single helically wound belt over a flattened torus is powered by two independent drive systems. The drive systems are controlled by a combination of infrared cameras and a physical harness system.