Treadmill Detection Module for Automatic Speed Control

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing treadmills require manual operation to adjust speed, which can lead to safety issues due to user fatigue and uneven pressure distribution, potentially shortening the treadmill's lifespan.

Innovation Solution

A treadmill with a detection module using a light emitter and sensor to automatically adjust speed based on the user's position and speed, ensuring the user remains in the middle zone and maintaining preset speed without manual operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If manual operation is used to adjust speed, then the user can control the treadmill, but safety issues occur due to user fatigue

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemanual speed adjustmentVSAvoiduser safety

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The treadmill system automatically detects user position and speed using light sensors and emitters, then self-adjusts the running track speed without requiring manual user input. This eliminates the safety risk of manual operation during exercise while maintaining effective speed control

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system continuously monitors user position and running speed through optical sensors, feeds this information back to the control unit, and automatically adjusts the treadmill speed accordingly. This closed-loop feedback mechanism ensures safe and adaptive operation without user intervention

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

2Adaptability or versatility

If user runs towards lateral side, then user follows natural running habit, but uneven pressure shortens treadmill lifespan

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenatural running patternVSAvoidtreadmill lifespan

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDuration of action of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The detection module continuously monitors user position on the running track and provides feedback to the control unit. When lateral deviation is detected, the system can adjust speed or provide guidance to encourage proper positioning, distributing pressure evenly across the treadmill structure and extending its lifespan

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces mechanical pressure distribution issues with an optical detection and electronic control system. Instead of relying on physical guides or mechanical constraints to keep users centered, the system uses light sensors and electronic speed adjustment to maintain proper running position and even weight distribution

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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 safe and durable treadmill by automatically adjusting speed, reducing user fatigue and evenly distributing pressure, thus extending the treadmill's lifespan and enhancing user safety.

Implementation Method 1

The light emitter emits light to cover the two rest zones and the running zone. The at least one light sensor detects a position and a speed of the user according to a reflected light from the user.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectReflected light: Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS10953281B2Treadmill, control method and detection module for the same

Publication Date: 2021.03.23 PIXART IMAGING INC

AI summary

A treadmill includes a base including two rest zones and a running zone arranged between the two rest zones; a running track disposed in the running zone of the base enabling a user to exercise thereon; and a detection module. The detection module includes a light emitter emitting light to cover the two rest zones and the running zone, and at least one light sensor detecting a position and a speed of the user according to a reflected light from the user.