Treadmill Incline Structure for Uphill and Downhill Simulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing treadmills can only simulate an upward incline and cannot adjust to a downward slope, limiting the variety of training modes available.
Innovation Solution
A treadmill with an upward/downward inclination angle adjustment structure, featuring a base unit, a running belt unit, an adjustment unit, and a control unit, allowing the running belt unit to be pivoted to form either an upward or a downward inclination angle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual adjustment mechanism is used for inclination angle, then device complexity is reduced, but the ability to adjust to downward slope is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical adjustment mechanism with an automated system using a motor-driven chain and sprocket mechanism. The motor (32) drives the chain (31) which connects to the frame (21), enabling automated pivoting of the running belt unit between upward and downward inclination positions without manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustment mechanism is designed to provide multiple functions: it can pivot the frame to form both upward inclination angles (simulating uphill) and downward inclination angles (simulating downhill). This multi-functional capability allows a single device to handle various training scenarios that would otherwise require different configurations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If motor-driven chain mechanism is added for bidirectional inclination adjustment, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment mechanism is divided into distinct functional components: the motor (32) for power generation, the reduction drive (322) for torque multiplication, the driving sprocket (321) for chain engagement, the chain (31) for force transmission, and the idler-wheels (33) for chain guidance. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and facilitates easier maintenance and replacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The chain (31) acts as an intermediary element that transmits the driving force from the motor-driven sprocket to the frame pivoting mechanism. The idler-wheels (33) serve as intermediaries to guide and support the chain, ensuring proper tension and alignment throughout the adjustment process.
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 the treadmill to simulate both upward and downward hills, providing a more versatile training experience and allowing users to adjust the angle with ease.
Implementation Method 1
The motor for driving the chain drives the driving sprocket into rotation and thereby moves the chain in order to pivot the frame with respect to the base on a fulcrum defined by the pivotal connection end
Implementation Method 2
The elastically movable idler-wheel is provided on the base in an elastically movable manner and is pressed against the chain
Data Source
AI summary
A treadmill with an upward/downward inclination angle adjustment structure includes: a base with a pivotal connection point provided above the base; a frame with a front connecting end, an opposite rear connecting end, and a pivotal connection end between the front and rear connecting ends, wherein the frame is pivotally connected to the pivotal connection point through the pivotal connection end and is thus provided on the base; and a chain and a motor for driving the chain, wherein the chain has two opposite ends each connected to one of the front and rear connecting ends and is looped around the motor for driving the chain, thereby allowing the frame to simulate an upward or downward hill.