Motorized Treadmill Braking and Torque Modes for Versatile 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 operates in four modes: non-motorized, motorized, brake, and torque modes, allowing users to adjust resistance and assistance levels, and featuring a planar or non-planar running surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single treadmill is used for multiple workout types, then versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The treadmill motor is designed to perform multiple functions by operating in different modes: motorized mode for assisted running, brake mode for resistance training, and non-motorized mode for manual operation. This multi-functionality allows a single device to accommodate various workout types including cardio, strength training, and rehabilitation exercises, thereby improving versatility without requiring multiple separate pieces of equipment
Solution Approach 2:
The treadmill implements dynamic mode switching capability that allows real-time transition between different operating modes during workouts. The controller dynamically adjusts motor behavior based on selected workout type, enabling the system to adapt its characteristics (resistance, assistance, speed control) to match the specific exercise requirements, thus resolving the contradiction between versatility and complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If motor braking mechanism is added to enable resistance training, then workout variety is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The motor is configured to operate in brake mode where it generates resistive force against the running belt, enabling strength training and resistance exercises. This same motor also performs traditional propulsion in motorized mode and can be disengaged for non-motorized operation, allowing one component to serve multiple workout functions including cardio, strength training, and rehabilitation without requiring separate braking equipment
Solution Approach 2:
The controller changes the motor's operational parameters to transition between modes. In brake mode, the motor receives electrical signals that create electromagnetic resistance opposing the belt motion. The controller dynamically adjusts parameters such as electrical current direction, magnitude, and timing to provide variable resistance levels, enabling diverse strength training protocols while using the existing motor infrastructure
3Ease of operation
If motor is disengaged for non-motorized mode, then user control is improved, but speed consistency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
In non-motorized mode, the treadmill allows users to manually control the running belt speed through their own physical effort without motor interference. Users can adjust speed, duration, and intensity according to their preferences and fitness levels, providing maximum operational freedom and adaptability for different exercise routines and rehabilitation protocols
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 a single treadmill to adapt to diverse workout types and user needs, enhancing user experience and reducing the need for multiple fitness or rehabilitation equipment.
Implementation Method 1
a motor operatively coupled to the running belt... causing the motor to output a holding torque at a predefined threshold speed value
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 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. In a third operating mode, the motor is adapted to provide a force of rotation to the running belt at a desired speed.