Treadmill Deck Vibration Isolation via Eccentric Weights
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing exercise devices do not effectively integrate vibration therapy with traditional exercise methods like running or strength training to enhance muscle strength, bone density, and overall physical conditioning.
Innovation Solution
A treadmill with a vibrating deck, equipped with vibration assemblies comprising motors and eccentric weights that create vibrations, which can be controlled in intensity and frequency, and isolated from the main structure to focus vibrations on the user.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If vibration assemblies are integrated into the treadmill deck, then vibration therapy benefits are provided, but the complexity of the device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The vibration assembly is segmented into separate components (motor, eccentric weight, mounting bracket) that can be independently installed on the deck, allowing the vibration function to be added without redesigning the entire treadmill structure
Solution Approach 2:
The vibration assembly is designed to be universally applicable to various treadmill configurations and can be positioned at different locations on the deck to provide vibration therapy while maintaining the treadmill's primary walking/running function
2Strength
If vibrations are generated on the deck, then muscle strength and bone density are enhanced, but vibrations may transfer to the support structure causing unwanted effects
Solution Approach 1:
An isolator is introduced as an intermediary component between the deck and the support structure. The isolator absorbs and dampens vibration energy, preventing harmful vibrations from transferring to the support structure while allowing beneficial vibrations to reach the user's body
Solution Approach 2:
The isolator is positioned specifically at the vibration assembly mounting location where vibration transfer occurs, providing localized vibration isolation only where needed rather than isolating the entire support structure
3Object-generated harmful factors
If the deck is isolated from vibrations, then vibration transfer to support structure is reduced, but the effectiveness of vibration therapy is diminished
Solution Approach 1:
The isolator is positioned specifically at the vibration assembly mounting location where vibration transfer occurs, providing localized vibration isolation only where needed rather than isolating the entire support structure
Solution Approach 2:
The isolator provides partial vibration isolation that is sufficient to protect the support structure from harmful vibrations while allowing enough vibration transmission to maintain therapy effectiveness
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
Enhances muscle strength, bone density, and overall physical conditioning by providing a more engaging and effective workout experience, improving muscle performance, flexibility, and injury recovery.
Implementation Method 1
One or more vibration assemblies are connected to the deck and selectively create vibrations to cause the deck to vibrate. Each vibration assembly includes a motor, a shaft rotatable by the motor about an axis of rotation, and one or more eccentric weights mounted on the shaft.
Implementation Method 2
rotation of the shaft causes the centers of mass of the one or more eccentric weights to revolve around the axis of rotation, thereby creating vibrations
Implementation Method 3
One or more isolators are connected between the first and second opposing side rails and the deck to limit the transfer of vibrations from the deck to the first and second opposing side rails
Data Source
AI summary
A treadmill includes a support structure and a treadbase connected thereto. The treadbase has first and second opposing side rails extending along at least a portion of first and second sides of the treadbase, respectively. A deck is connected to and between the first and second opposing side rails. Front and rear pulleys are connected to and between the first and second opposing side rails. A continuous belt is trained around and rotatable about the front and rear pulleys. One or more vibration assemblies are connected to the deck and selectively create vibrations to cause the deck to vibrate. The vibrations are transferred to a user during the performance of exercise to provide various physiological benefits to the user.