Treadmill Deck Stiffness Adjustment via Movable Support Members
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Solution Overview
Problem
Exercise treadmills typically have rigid decks that cause high impact loads on users' joints, leading to discomfort and potential damage, and existing solutions for varying deck stiffness are complex, expensive, or difficult to implement in existing designs.
Innovation Solution
A user-variable deck support structure with movable resilient support members and a lever mechanism that allows users to adjust the stiffness of the deck by moving support members beneath the deck, using existing resilient members and a simple latch mechanism for easy installation and operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a rigid deck is used to provide structural support, then the deck strength and stability are improved, but the impact loads on users' joints increase and user comfort deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by allowing the deck stiffness parameter to be variable rather than fixed. Users can adjust the stiffness parameter by repositioning support members along the deck, transforming the deck from a rigid structure to an adaptable one that changes its mechanical properties based on user needs and running conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by making the deck support structure adjustable and reconfigurable. Support members can be moved along the deck length, and the deck can be configured in different stiffness states (e.g., single support member position, multiple support member positions), allowing the system to adapt dynamically to different user requirements.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If resilient support members are added to reduce impact loads, then user comfort is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing support members that serve multiple functions: they provide structural support, enable stiffness adjustment, and can be repositioned along the deck. The same resilient support members used for comfort also serve as the adjustment mechanism, eliminating the need for separate complex adjustment devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service by allowing users to independently adjust the deck stiffness by repositioning support members without requiring complex control systems, motors, or electronic controls. The adjustment mechanism is simple mechanical, enabling users to modify their own running experience directly.
3Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable deck stiffness mechanisms are implemented, then adaptability to different users is improved, but the manufacturing cost and installation complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the deck support system into discrete, repositionable support members rather than a continuous adjustable structure. Each support member is a separate component that can be independently positioned along the deck, simplifying manufacturing and allowing modular assembly without requiring complex integrated adjustment mechanisms.
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
The solution provides a cost-effective and easy-to-install method to adjust the stiffness of the treadmill deck, reducing joint impact and improving user comfort by allowing customizable support, enhancing the overall running experience.
Implementation Method 1
resilient support members already installed in the treadmill
Data Source
AI summary
To provide variable resilient support for the deck of an exercise treadmill one or more resilient members are secured to the deck and a moveable support member is used to selectively engage the resilient members to provide support for the deck. A user operated adjustment mechanism can be used to move the support member or support members longitudinally along the treadmill thus effectively changing the number of resilient support members supporting the deck.