U.S. patent application number 10/754167 was filed with the patent office on 2005-07-28 for cushioning treadmill.
Invention is credited to Ashby, Darren C., Dalebout, William T., Watterson, Scott R..
Application Number | 20050164839 10/754167 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34794720 |
Filed Date | 2005-07-28 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050164839 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Watterson, Scott R. ; et
al. |
July 28, 2005 |
Cushioning treadmill
Abstract
The present invention relates to exercise apparatuses. In more
particular the present invention relates to a self-adjusting
treadmill having a moveable console and a self-adjusting cushioning
assembly. According to one aspect of the present invention, the
moveable console and the self-adjusting cushioning assembly of the
treadmill automatically adjust based on user parameters. The user
parameters can be input by the user or automatically detected when
the user steps on the treadmill by the movable console and/or the
cushioning mechanisms. For example, in one embodiment, when the
user steps on the treadmill, the self-adjusting cushioning assembly
detects the weight of the user and automatically adjusts the amount
of cushioning to accommodate the weight of the user.
Inventors: |
Watterson, Scott R.; (Logan,
UT) ; Dalebout, William T.; (North Logan, UT)
; Ashby, Darren C.; (Richmond, UT) |
Correspondence
Address: |
WORKMAN NYDEGGER
(F/K/A WORKMAN NYDEGGER & SEELEY)
60 EAST SOUTH TEMPLE
1000 EAGLE GATE TOWER
SALT LAKE CITY
UT
84111
US
|
Family ID: |
34794720 |
Appl. No.: |
10/754167 |
Filed: |
January 9, 2004 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
482/54 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 22/0228 20151001;
A63B 22/0214 20151001; A63B 2230/01 20130101; A63B 22/02 20130101;
A63B 2208/12 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/054 |
International
Class: |
A63B 022/02 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A cushioned treadmill, comprising: treadbase comprising a deck
that moves when an exerciser exercises on the treadbase; and a
self-adjusting cushioning assembly configured to (i) provide
cushioning to movement of the deck; and (ii) adjust the amount of
cushioning provided to movement of the deck.
2. The cushioned treadmill of claim 1, wherein the self-adjusting
cushioning assembly automatically adjusts when a user steps on the
treadbase.
3. The cushioned treadmill of claim 1, wherein the self-adjusting
cushioning assembly adjusts when a user having a different weight
from the previous user steps on the treadbase.
4. The cushioned treadmill of claim 1, wherein the user can select
the amount of cushioning to be provided by the self-adjusting
cushioning assembly.
5. The cushioned treadmill of claim 1, further comprising a sensor
for adjusting the amount of cushioning provided by the
self-adjusting cushioning assembly.
6. The cushioned treadmill of claim 5, wherein the sensor comprises
a deflection sensor assembly.
7. The cushioned treadmill of claim 6, wherein the deflection
sensor assembly ascertains the weight of the user standing on the
treadbase by monitoring the amount of deflection of the deck of the
treadbase.
8. The cushioned treadmill of claim 7, wherein the deflection
sensor assembly includes a hall effect sensor.
9. A treadmill as recited in claim 1, wherein the treadbase further
comprises a treadbase frame, wherein the deck is coupled at one end
to the treadbase frame and moves with respect to the treadbase
frame when the user exercises on the treadbase frame.
10. A treadmill as recited in claim 9, wherein the treadbase
further comprises first and second rollers mounted adjacent
opposing ends of the deck and an endless belt trained about the
rollers.
11. A cushioned treadmill, comprising: a frame; a deck mounted on
the frame such that the deck moves with respect to the frame; and a
self-adjusting cushioning assembly configured to provide cushioning
to movement of the deck with respect to the frame and to
automatically adjust the amount of cushioning provided to the
movement of the deck.
12. The cushioned treadmill of claim 11, wherein the frame
comprises a tread base frame.
13. A cushioning treadmill as recited in claim 11, wherein the
self-adjusting cushioning assembly comprises (i) a cushioning
mechanism positioned between the deck and the frame so as to
cushion movement of the deck with respect to the frame; (ii) a
sensing assembly configured to sense deflection of the deck;
14. The cushioned treadmill of claim 13, wherein the self adjusting
cushioning assembly further comprises a controller electrically
coupled to the cushioning mechanism and the sensing assembly such
that the amount of cushioning provided to movement of the deck is
adjusted in light of feedback received by the controller regarding
the amount of deflection experienced by the deck
15. The cushioned treadmill of claim 12, wherein the sensor is
electrically coupled to the cushioning mechanism such that upon
sensing deflection of the deck, the cushioning mechanism is
adjusted.
16. A treadmill as recited in claim 12, further comprising a
controller electrically coupled to the sensor and the cushioning
mechanism wherein upon sensing deflection of the deck, the sensor
sends a signal to the controller and the controller sends a signal
to the cushioning mechanism to adjust the amount of cushioning of
the deck.
17. A treadmill as recited in claim 16, wherein the controller
comprises an input mechanism such that the user can input a desired
amount of cushioning.
18. A treadmill as recited in claim 17, wherein the user can input
a desired amount of cushioning, the desired amount of cushioning
selected from the group consisting of hard, medium or soft
cushioning.
19. A treadmill as recited in claim 12, wherein the sensor
comprises a Hall effect sensing mechanism.
20. A treadmill as recited in claim 12, wherein the sensor
comprises an optical sensor.
21. A treadmill as recited in claim 12, wherein the sensor
comprises a potentiometer.
22. A treadmill as recited in claim 21, wherein the sensor
comprises a linear potentiometer.
23. A treadmill as recited in claim 21, wherein the sensor
comprises a rotary potentiometer.
24. A treadmill as recited in claim 12, wherein the sensor
comprises a contact sensor.
25. A treadmill as recited in claim 12, wherein the sensor
comprises a non-contact sensing device.
26. A treadmill as recited in claim 25, wherein the self-adjusting
cushioning assembly includes an adjustment mechanism.
27. A treadmill as recited in claim 26, wherein the adjustment
mechanism is selected from the group consisting of a realogic
mechanism, an airbag, a spring, an air shock, a hydraulic cylinder,
a hydraulic bellow, a leaf spring and a coil spring, a solid hallow
elastomeric member, a bellows, a cylinder, and a gas shock.
28. A cushioning treadmill configured such that the amount of
cushioning is automatically set based on certain initial desired
input levels of cushioning selected by the user, comprising: a
treadbase comprising; a frame; a deck; an endless belt trained
about first and second rollers coupled to the frame; a cushioning
mechanism configured to cushion movement of the deck with respect
to the frame; and a sensing assembly configured to sense deflection
of the deck and to adjust the amount of deflection of said deck
based on the amount of deflection sensed by the sensing
assembly.
29. A treadmill as recited in claim 28, wherein upon sensing a
deflection that is greater than an amount that is initially
selected by the user upon initial input, a controller signals the
adjusting mechanism to decrease the amount of cushioning.
30. A treadmill as recited in claim 28, wherein upon sensing a
deflection that is less than an amount that is initially selected
by the user upon initial input, a controller signals that adjusting
mechanism to increase the amount of cushioning.
31. A treadmill as described in claim 30, wherein the sensing
assembly comprises a sensor and a controller, wherein the
controller is electrically coupled between the sensor and the
cushioning mechanism.
32. A self-adjusting, cushioned treadmill configured to enable a
user to input a desired amount of cushioning and to self-adjust
during use of the treadmill such that the desired level of
cushioning is achieved, the treadmill comprising: a frame; a deck
moveably coupled to the frame; first and second rollers coupled to
opposing ends of the frame; a belt trained about said rollers such
that a running surface of said belt extends over said deck, a
cushioning mechanism configured to cushion movement of the deck
with respect to the frame; a sensor adapted so as to sense
deflection of the deck; a controller electrically coupled to the
sensor and to the cushioning assembly, the controller having user
inputs enabling the user to select a desired amount of cushioning
within a range of available cushioning, such that upon sensing an
amount of deflection of the deck that is not in accordance with the
amount of cushioning selected by the user, the cushioning mechanism
adjusts the amount of deflection of the deck.
33. A cushioned treadmill, comprising: a treadbase having a
treadbase frame and a deck movably coupled to the treadbase frame;
a cushioning mechanism positioned so as to cushion movement of the
deck with respect to the frame; a sensing assembly configured to
sense deflection of the deck; and a controller electrically coupled
to the cushioning mechanism and the sensing assembly such that the
cushioning mechanism is adjusted based on information received from
the sensing assembly.
34. A self-adjusting, cushioned treadmill configured to enable a
user to input a desired amount of cushioning and to self-adjust
during use of the treadmill such that the desired level of
cushioning is achieved, the treadmill comprising: a frame; a deck
moveably coupled to the frame; first and second rollers coupled to
opposing ends of the frame; a belt trained about said rollers such
that a running surface of said belt extends over said deck, a
cushioning mechanism configured to cushion movement of the deck
with respect to the frame; a sensor adapted so as to sense
deflection of the deck; a control electrically coupled to the
sensor and to the cushioning assembly, the controller adjusting the
cushioning mechanism to a preadjustment setting based on the
deflection of the deck.
35. The self-adjusting cushioning treadmill of claim 34, wherein
the sensor provides a coarse weight reading.
36. The self-adjusting cushioning treadmill of claim 34, wherein
the coarse weight reading is based on the deflection of the
deck.
37. The self-adjusting cushioning treadmill of claim 34, wherein
the coarse weight reading is made when the user first steps on the
deck.
38. The self-adjusting cushioning treadmill of claim 34, wherein
the preadjustment setting of the cushioning mechanism is based on
the coarse weight reading.
39. The self adjusting cushioning treadmill of claim 34, wherein a
plurality of coarse weight categories are utilized to determine the
preadjustment setting.
40. The self adjusting cushioning treadmill of claim 34, wherein
the preadjustment setting provides an amount of cushioning within a
range of available cushioning.
41. The self adjusting cushioning treadmill of claim 34, wherein
subsequent to setting the preadjustment setting, upon sensing an
amount of deflection of the deck that is not in accordance with the
desired amount of cushioning, the cushioning mechanism adjusts the
amount of deflection of the deck.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. The Field of the Invention
[0002] The present invention relates to exercise apparatuses. In
particular the present invention relates to a self-adjusting
treadmill having a movable console and/or a self adjusting
cushioning assembly.
[0003] 2. The Relevant Technology
[0004] Exercise treadmills have long been a mainstay of the home
and institutional exercise equipment market. One advantage of
exercise treadmills is that they decrease the wear on a user's
joints when the user is running or walking, as opposed to walking
on a street, trail, or other hard and/or uneven surface. Exercise
treadmills having adjustable features that allow tailoring of the
exercise experience to an individual user have become more popular
in recent years.
[0005] Exercise treadmills typically utilize a console having user
interfaces to allow a user to view exercise program information and
input or select different exercise program information or features.
Such consoles typically allow a user some degree of interactivity
and tailoring of treadmill features including speed, displayed
information, and exercise program duration. The height of such
consoles is typically set at an intermediate height so as to be
usable by most users. However, the intermediate height of the
console may not be optimal for many of the users who will utilize
the treadmill. Manipulation of the controls, while possible for
many users, may not be well tailored to any actual user of the
treadmill. Additionally, the height of the console may not comport
with a unusually tall or unusually short user.
[0006] Another feature utilized with exercise treadmills are
cushioning mechanisms. Cushioning mechanisms in treadmills provide
alleviation from the impact experienced during user exercise. A
variety of different types of cushioning mechanisms are available,
ranging from elastomeric members placed between the deck and the
frame of a treadmill to more complex mechanisms that involve
adjustability of the amount of cushioning provided.
[0007] One drawback of many existing cushioning systems is that
they are designed primarily to enable adjustment before or after a
given exercise routine. Such systems can be difficult, if not
impractical, to adjust during the course of the exercise routine.
As a result it may not be possible to tailor the amount of
cushioning to different users or to variable intensities
experienced during a workout. For example, a user who begins
exercising more intensely during a particular exercise routine may
require more cushioning than the user would if the user were
walking. In addition, a desirable amount of cushioning for one
user, may not be suitable for another user.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] The present invention relates to exercise apparatuses. In
more particular the present invention relates to a self-adjusting
treadmill having a moveable console and a self-adjusting cushioning
assembly. According to one aspect of the present invention, the
moveable console and the self-adjusting cushioning assembly of the
treadmill automatically adjust based on user parameters when the
user steps on the treadmill. The user parameters can be input by
the user or automatically detected by the movable console and/or
the cushioning mechanism. For example, in one embodiment, when the
user stands on the treadmill, the console detects the height of the
user and automatically raises or lowers the console to tailor the
positioning of the console relative to the height of the user. In
another embodiment, when the user steps on the treadmill, the
self-adjusting cushioning assembly detects the weight of the user
and automatically adjusts the amount of cushioning provided to
accommodate the weight of the user.
[0009] According to one aspect of the present invention, the
moveable console includes a height sensor and a console height
adjustment mechanism. The height sensor utilizes a light source,
such as a laser, infrared (IR), or other source of light to
determine the height of the user. Then the console height
adjustment mechanism adjusts the height of the console such that
the height of the console is tailored to the height of the user. In
one embodiment, the console starts in a default position at its
uppermost position. When of the user steps on the treadmill, the
height sensors are automatically activated and light is emitted
from the height sensor. The angle of the light corresponds with a
desired placement of the console relative to the height of the
user. Where the height sensor detects little or no reflection of
light from the user, the console height adjustment mechanism begins
to lower the console. The height of the user is detected when the
console is lowered to a position in which the light emitted from
the height sensor contacts and reflects from the user. Based on the
angle of the light emitted from the height sensor, the height of
the user can be determined. Once the height of the user is detected
the console height adjustment mechanism discontinues further
downward movement of the console. This is because the console is in
a desired height relative to the sensed height of the user.
According to another embodiment of the present invention, the
console starts at a default lowest position and is raised until
reflection of the light is no longer detected.
[0010] The cushioning assembly is utilized in connection with a
deck of the treadbase of treadmill. The cushioning assembly is
adapted to absorb the impact of a user exercising on the treadbase.
The cushioning assembly provides a variable amount of cushioning,
thus allowing the deck to move a greater or lesser amount when the
user is exercising on the treadbase. According to one aspect of the
present invention, once the user steps on the treadbase a
deflection sensor assembly of the cushioning assembly automatically
detects the weight of the user. Based on the sensed weight of the
user, the cushioning assembly is automatically adjusted to provide
a desired amount of cushioning based on the weight of the user.
[0011] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a user
can select a desired amount of cushioning. In this embodiment, the
weight of the user is factored in with the selected amount of
cushioning desired and the cushioning assembly is adjusted to
provide the desired amount of cushioning based on the weight of the
user.
[0012] These and other objects and features of the present
invention will become more fully apparent from the following
description and appended claims, or may be learned by the practice
of the invention as set forth hereinafter.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0013] To further clarify the above and other advantages and
features of the present invention, a more particular description of
the invention will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments
thereof which are illustrated in the appended drawings. It is
appreciated that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of
the invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of
its scope. The invention will be described and explained with
additional specificity and detail through the use of the
accompanying drawings in which:
[0014] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the self-adjusting treadmill
illustrating the configuration of the console.
[0015] FIG. 2A is a side view of the self-adjusting treadmill with
the console positioned at a lower height corresponding with the
height of the user exercising on the self-adjusting treadmill.
[0016] FIG. 2B is a side view of the self-adjusting treadmill
illustrating the console at a higher position corresponding with
the height of the user exercising on the self-adjusting
treadmill.
[0017] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the console of the
self-adjusting treadmill illustrating components of the console
including the height sensor.
[0018] FIG. 4 is a front view of the height sensor of the
console.
[0019] FIG. 5 is a cut-away view of the console height adjustment
mechanism of the console.
[0020] FIG. 6 is a flow diagram illustrating a method of utilizing
a self-adjusting console.
[0021] FIG. 7 is a side view of the self-adjusting treadmill
illustrating the cushioning assembly according to one aspect of the
present invention.
[0022] FIG. 8 is an internal view of the tread base illustrating
the cushioning assembly utilized in connection with the
self-adjusting treadmill.
[0023] FIG. 9 is a bottom view of the self-adjusting treadmill
illustrating the adjustment rod and cushioning adjustment motor
utilized to control adjustment of the cushioning assembly of the
self-adjusting treadmill.
[0024] FIG. 10 is a functional block diagram illustrating a system
for controlling adjustment of the cushioning assembly in connection
with the self-adjusting treadmill.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0025] The present invention relates to exercise apparatuses. In
more particular the present invention relates to a self-adjusting
treadmill having a moveable console and a self-adjusting cushioning
assembly. According to one aspect of the present invention, the
moveable console and the self-adjusting cushioning assembly of the
treadmill automatically adjust based on user parameters. The user
parameters can be input by the user or automatically detected when
the user is positioned on the tread base. For example, in one
embodiment, when the user stands on the treadmill, the console
detects the height of the user and is automatically raised or
lowered to tailor the positioning of the console relative to the
height of the user. In another embodiment, when the user stands on
the treadmill, the self-adjusting cushioning assembly detects the
weight of the user and automatically adjusts the amount of
cushioning to accommodate the weight of the user.
[0026] FIG. 1 illustrates a treadmill 10 utilized according to one
embodiment of the present invention. In the illustrated embodiment,
treadmill 10 is a self-adjusting treadmill having one or more
features which detect user parameters and which automatically
adjust one or more components of the treadmill based on the sensed
user parameters. Examples of user parameters include, but are not
limited to, the user's weight, height, body mass index, body fat
percentage, height of one or more body features, heart rate, and
the like. A variety of types of user parameters can be utilized in
a variety of manners without departing from the scope and spirit of
the present invention. For example, the height of the user can be
utilized to set the height of a console of the treadmill. In
another example, the weight of the user is utilized to set the
amount of the cushioning of the treadmill.
[0027] In the illustrated embodiment, treadmill 10 comprises a
frame 20, a console 30, a drive motor assembly 40, and a tread base
50. Frame 20 is coupled to other components of treadmill 10. Frame
20 provides stability to treadmill 10 when a user is exercising
thereon. Additionally, frame 20 provides a mechanism to secure the
components of treadmill 10 and to provide the desired configuration
of treadmill 10. Console 30 is coupled to an upper portion of frame
20. Console 30 provides a user interface which allows a user to
view information regarding an exercise routine being performed,
select different exercise program variables, view parameters of the
treadmill, and any of a variety of other features that can enhance
the user's overall workout experience. Console 30 can include
control circuitry to regulate operation of other components of the
treadmill.
[0028] Drive motor assembly 40 is coupled to a bottom portion of
frame 20. Drive motor assembly 40 is positioned toward the front of
treadmill 10. Drive motor assembly 40 facilitates movement of an
endless belt and inclining of tread base 50. Movement of the
endless belt allows a user to run on the otherwise stationary tread
base 50. As the user exercises on the endless belt, inclining of
tread base 50 can simulate natural changes in the slope of the
running surface that are encountered during a typical outdoor
exercise routine. Tread base 50 provides a surface allowing a user
to exercise on treadmill 10. Tread base 50 provides a desired
amount of cushioning to the user exercising thereon. Tread base 50
is coupled to frame 20 and drive motor assembly 40.
[0029] Frame 20 provides stability and support to other components
of treadmill 10. Frame 20 comprises a base 22, upright frame
members 24a, b, and console support members 26a, b. Base 22 is
positioned at the bottom of frame 20. Base 22 is configured to be
in contact with the floor or other surface on which treadmill 10 is
positioned. Upright frame members 24a, b are coupled to base 22 and
console support members 26a, b. Upright frame members 24a, b
support console support members 26a, b while providing a desired
degree of displacement between base 22 and console support members
26a, b. In the illustrated embodiment, upright frame members 24a, b
are fixedly connected to base 22 to provide a rigid and constant
configuration of frame 20.
[0030] Console support members 26a, b are coupled to the upper ends
of upright frame members 24a, b. Console support members 26a, b are
also coupled to console 30. The coupling between console support
members 26a, b and console 30 permits console 30 to move relative
to console support members 26a, b. In the illustrated embodiment,
console support members 26a, b are positioned at an angle relative
to upright frame members 24a, b. The angle at which console support
members 26a, b are positioned relative to upright frame members
24a, b allow the height of console 30 to be adjusted while also
changing how close console 30 is positioned relative to the
user.
[0031] A cross member 28 is connected to the upper ends of console
support members 26a, b. Cross member 28 maintains a desired
displacement between console support members 26a, b while also
maintaining the overall configuration of frame 20. As will be
appreciated by those skilled in the art, a variety of types and
configurations of frames can be utilized in connection with the
treadmill without departing from the scope and spirit of the
present invention. For example, in one embodiment, console support
members are immovably coupled relative to console. In the
embodiment, the console support members are configured to move
relative to other components of the frame to change the height of
the console. In another embodiment, a single console support member
is positioned such that the console can move relative to the single
console support member. In another embodiment, the console moves
relative to the frame without the use of console support
members.
[0032] As previously discussed, console 30 is configured to be
moveable relative to at least one other component of treadmill 10.
In the illustrated embodiment, console 30 moves relative to both
frame 20 and tread base 50. Console 30 is movably coupled to
console support members 26a, b such that console 30 moves relative
to console support members 26a, b when the height of console 30 is
being adjusted. According to one embodiment of the present
invention, the height of console 30 is automatically adjusted when
the user stands on tread base 50. When a user stands on tread base
50, console 30 automatically detects the height of the user and
adjusts the height of console 30 to tailor the height of console 30
to the user. A variety of types and configurations of movable
consoles can be utilized without departing from the scope and
spirit of the present invention. In one embodiment, the console
changes position based on the speed that the endless belt is moving
about the tread base. In another embodiment, the console changes
position based on the proximity of the user to the console. In
another embodiment, the console can move forward and backward in
addition to up and down.
[0033] FIG. 2A is a side perspective view of treadmill 10
illustrating a user exercising on treadmill 10. In the illustrated
embodiment, the configuration of drive motor assembly 40 and tread
base 50 relative to frame 20 is illustrated. Console 30 is coupled
to console support members 26a, b. Console 30 is illustrated at a
position near the lower end of console support members 26a, b. In
this configuration, console 30 is positioned at or near its lowest
height setting. A height sensor 36 of console 30 is positioned on
the upper extremity of console 30. Height sensor 36 directs a
signal, such as a light source, infrared source, laser or other
means of detecting the height of the user, in the direction of the
user. For example, where sensor 36 utilizes an infrared light, the
infrared light emanates from height sensor 36 and then monitors for
reflection of the infrared light off a surface such as the user's
head or torso. Sensor 36 detects the height of the user by
monitoring a transition from the presence of reflected light to the
absence of reflected light or vice versa. Once the height of the
user is detected movement of console 30 is stopped, thus setting
the height of console 30 at a height tailored to the height of the
user. In the illustrated embodiment, the user has a relatively
short height and thus console 30 is positioned at or near its
lowest position.
[0034] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the
height of console 30 is adjusted from a default position at either
its lowest or highest position. For example, where the default
height of console 30 is at the highest position, the console 30
moves from its highest position downwards until the height of the
user is sensed and the corresponding desired console height is
achieved. Where the default height of the console is its highest
position, the console does not move if reflected light is sensed.
Movement of the console 30 only begins when height sensor 36
detects an absence of reflected infrared light. As the console 30
moves downwards relative to console support members 26a, b an
infrared light beam emanates from height sensor 36 and the sensor
monitors for reflection of the infrared light beam. As console 30
moves in the downward direction, the infrared light beam intersects
the head of the user.
[0035] When the infrared light beam intersects the head of the
user, the infrared light reflects from the head of the user and is
detected by the infrared sensor of height sensor 36. Once the
reflected light is detected, movement of the console 30 is stopped
setting the height of console 30. This tailors the height of
console 30 relative to the user allowing simple and advantageous
manipulation of the controls on console 30. This also allows the
user to view the screens and/or monitors utilized in connection
with console 30 at an optimal height. Additionally, positioning of
console 30 tailors the height of handrail assembly such that the
handrail can be grasped easily and at a comfortable angle by the
user.
[0036] FIG. 2B is a side perspective view of treadmill 10
illustrating operation of console 30. In the illustrated
embodiment, a user is excising on treadmill 10. The user is
positioned on tread base 50. In the illustrated embodiment, the
user exercising on treadmill 10 is substantially taller than the
user depicted in FIG. 2A. Height sensor 36 of console 30 detects
the taller height of the user exercising on treadmill 10. Console
30 is adjusted to position console 30 at a height tailored to the
height of the user. In the illustrated embodiment, console 30 is
positioned at its highest elevation allowing the taller user to
easily view the display of console 30, adjust user settings, and or
grip handrails of console 30.
[0037] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of console 30 illustrating
components of console 30 including height adjustment motor 31. As
previously discussed, console 30 is positioned between console
support members 26a, b and below cross member 28. Console 30
provides a mechanism for communicating information to the user and
receiving input from the user. In the illustrated embodiment,
console 30 includes a handrail assembly 32, a user interface 34, a
height sensor 36, and a console height adjustment mechanism 38.
[0038] Handrail assembly 32 of console 30 is positioned on lateral
sides of console 30. Handrail assembly 32 provides a mechanism
allowing a user to grasp console 30 to provide stability and
support to the user. In the illustrated embodiment, movement of
console 30 results in adjustment of the elevation of the handrail
assembly 32. As a result, when console 30 adjusts to accommodate a
user's height, the elevation of handrail assembly 32 is also
adjusted to tailor the elevation of handrail assembly 32 to
facilitate comfortable gripping by the user of the handrail
assembly 32. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, a
variety of types and configurations of handrail assemblies can be
utilized without departing from the scope and spirit of the present
invention. For example, in one embodiment the handrail assembly 32
is adjustable independently from the console. In another
embodiment, the handrail assembly is directly connected to the
frame of the treadmill. In another embodiment, a different
mechanism for allowing a user to grip the treadmill and to provide
stability and support to the user is provided.
[0039] User interface 34 is positioned on the front of console 30
to facilitate interactivity between treadmill 10 and the user. In
the illustrated embodiment, the user interface includes a display
and a plurality of buttons. The display provides a mechanism for
communicating information, data, exercise program information, user
physiological information, or any of a variety of other types and
combinations of information to the user. The buttons allow the user
to select different exercise program routines, different display
screens, speeds of running, degrees of incline of the tread base
50, and a variety of other types and parameters of the treadmill to
provide the desired interactivity and tailoring of the treadmill to
the specifications desired by the user. As will be appreciated as
those skilled in the art, a variety of types and configurations of
user interfaces can be utilized in connection with console 30
without departing from the scope or spirit of the present
invention. For example, in one embodiment, a plurality of user
displays are positioned on console 30. In another embodiment, no
interactive display is utilized.
[0040] Height sensor 36 is coupled to handrail assembly 32 at the
top of console 30. Height sensor 36 senses the height of the user
positioned on tread base 50. By allowing the height of the user to
be established, the height of the console can be tailored to the
height of the user. A variety of types and configurations of height
sensors can be utilized without departing from the scope and spirit
of the present invention. For example, in one embodiment, the
height sensor can detect the height of the user independent of
movement of console. In another embodiment the height sensor
detects the height of the user as the console moves from top to
bottom or bottom to top. In another embodiment, the height sensor
is positioned on the frame of the treadmill. In another embodiment
the height sensor is positioned at a location on the console other
than the top of the handrail assembly.
[0041] Console height adjustment mechanism 38 moves the console to
tailor the height of the console to the height of the user standing
on the tread base 50. In the illustrated embodiment, console height
adjustment mechanism 38 comprises a gear 380, a height adjustment
motor 382, a drive shaft 383, and a bracket 385. Gear 380 engages
console support members 26a, b to move console 30 relative to frame
20 and tread base 50. Height adjustment motor 382 provides the
force to cause movement of gear 380 and the consequent raising
and/or lowering of console 30. A variety of types and
configurations of consoles can be utilized without departing from
the scope and spirit of the present invention. For example, in one
embodiment, the console can be manually adjusted. In another
embodiment, the console comprises a motorized console assembly that
is automatically adjustable. In another embodiment, the console can
be adjusted based on personalized setting selected relative to, or
by, a user.
[0042] Height adjustment motor 382 provides the force necessary to
generate the rotational movement of drive shaft 383. Drive shaft
383 conveys the force provided by height adjustment motor 382 to
gear 380. The lower end of console support member 26a is
illustrated with endcap member 264a being removed. The grooves in
console support member 26a are adapted to accommodate a portion of
console height adjustment mechanism 38. As will be appreciated by
those skilled in the art, a variety of types and configurations of
height adjustment mechanisms can be utilized without departing from
the scope and spirit of the present invention. An illustrative
console height adjustment mechanism will be illustrated in greater
detail with reference to FIG. 5.
[0043] FIG. 4 illustrates a height sensor 36 according to one
embodiment of the present invention. In the illustrated embodiment,
height sensor 36 is coupled to a cross portion of handrail assembly
32. In the illustrated embodiment, height sensor 36 includes a
handrail sensor mechanism 360 and status Light Emitting Diodes
(leds) 366a-e. Sensor mechanism 360 detects the height of a user
positioned on tread base 50 of treadmill 10. Sensor mechanism 360
includes a light source 362 and a light detector 364. Light source
362 provides the light that is utilized to detect the height of the
user. Light emanating from light source 362 can reflect from the
user when the light contacts the user. When light reflects from the
user, it is detected by light detector 364. In this manner, sensor
mechanism 360 can detect whether a user is positioned in front of
height sensor 36.
[0044] In the illustrated embodiment, height sensor 36 utilizes
movement of console 30 to detect the height of the user. For
example, where the console starts at a default position at its
upper-most height, light emanates from light source 362. Light
detector 364 is actuated to determine whether light from light
source 362 is reflecting from the user. If no reflected light is
detected, console 30 moves downward in the direction of the lower
end 262a, b of console support members 26a, b. As console 30 moves
downward, light source 362 intersects the point at which the user's
head is contacted by light emanating from light source 362. As the
light emanating from light source 362 contacts the user's head it
is reflected such that it can be detected by light detector 364. At
this point, the height of the user is ascertained and the height of
the console is set accordingly.
[0045] According to one embodiment of the present invention, once
reflected light is detected at light detector 364, console 30 stops
its downward progression. The angle of the light emanating from
light source 362 is set such that the light will contact and
reflect from the user when console 30 is at the desired height for
the user. By stopping the downward movement of console 30 once
reflected light is detected, the height of the console is set at a
level tailored to the height of the user positioned on tread base
50. A variety of types and configurations of height sensors can be
utilized without departing from the scope and spirit of the present
invention. For example, in one embodiment light source 362 utilizes
an infrared beam to detect the height of the user. In another
embodiment, light emanating from the light source is directed at an
upward angle such that the console is positioned at a desirable
elevation relative to the overall height of the user. In another
embodiment, a laser or other light source is utilized in connection
with the sensor mechanism. In another embodiment, the console
starts at a default position in which the console is at its lowest
height and moves upward to detect the height of the user.
[0046] In the illustrated embodiment, status leds 366a-e are
positioned on the upper portion of height sensor 36. Status leds
366a-e provide a visual indication of operability of height sensor
36. For example, status leds 366a-e can provide an indication by
flashing alternatively, consecutively, iteratively or in any other
type or combination to indicate operability of height sensor 36.
For example, in one embodiment, when height sensor 36 is attempting
to identify the height of the user, status leds 366a-e flash to
indicate that a determination of the user's height is in progress.
In another embodiment, once the determination of the user's height
has been made, one or more of the status leds 366a-e are actuated
as an indicator of the height detected and thus the height of
console 30. A variety of types and other configurations of status
leds can be utilized in a variety of manners without departing from
the scope and spirit of the present invention.
[0047] FIG. 5 is a cut-away side view of console support member 26a
illustrating console height adjustment mechanism 38 of console 30.
In the illustrated embodiment, the lower end 262a of console
support member 26a is illustrated. Lower end 262a of console
support member 26a includes a gear slot 270, a rack 272, an upper
guide portion 274, and a lower guide portion 276. The components of
console support member 26a interact with console height adjustment
mechanism 38 to allow for movement of console 30. Console height
adjustment mechanism 38 includes a gear 380 and a height adjustment
motor 382 (see FIG. 3). Gear 380 engages rack 272 of console
support member 26a. As gear 380 is rotated by height adjustment
motor 382 movement of gear 380 results in repositioning of console
380 as the teeth of gear 380 engage rack 272.
[0048] Gear 380 is positioned in gear slot 270. The size and width
of gear slot 270 accommodates gear 380 to allow for movement of
gear 380 along the length of rack 272. Upper guide portion 274 and
lower guide portion 276 engage a flange of console 30. The flange,
in combination with upper guide portions 274 and lower guide
portion 276, ensures smooth and efficient movement of console 30
while preventing lateral movement along the length of console 30.
As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, a variety of
types and configurations of console height adjustment mechanisms
can be utilized without departing from the scope and spirit of the
present invention. For example, in one embodiment the console
height adjustment mechanism utilizes a lead screw to adjust to the
height of the console. In another embodiment, the console is moved
by moving the console support members.
[0049] FIG. 6 is a flow diagram illustrating a method for adjusting
the height of a console based on the height of the user positioned
on the treadmill. The method is started in step 102. It is than
ascertained whether a user is positioned on the treadmill in step
104. Once it is determined that a user is positioned on the
treadmill, downward movement of the console is started from a
default position at the console's uppermost position in step 106.
Once downward movement of the console is started, a sensing signal
is emitted from the sensor in step 108. The sensing signal can
comprise a infrared light source, a laser, or other signal utilized
to detect the height of the user.
[0050] Once the signal is emitted from the sensor, the presence or
absence of a reflected signal is detected in step 110. It is then
determined if a reflective signal has been detected in step 112. If
no reflected signal has been detected then the method returns to
step 108 and a sensing signal is again emitted from the sensor. If
a reflected signal has been detected then downward movement of the
console is stopped in step 114. Once the lowering of the treadmill
console has been stopped, the height of the user has been
ascertained and the console has tailored to the height of the user
and the method is ended in step 116.
[0051] As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, a
variety of types and configurations of methods can be utilized to
automatically adjust the height of the treadmill without departing
from the scope and spirit of the present invention. For example, in
one embodiment, additional acts are utilized to readjust the
treadmill every time the user changes the degree of inclination of
the tread base. In another embodiment, detection of the height of
the user does not start from a default position. In the embodiment,
the console starts with upward movement where a reflected signal is
detected or starts with downward movement where no reflected signal
is detected. The height of the user is determined where the sensor
detects a transition from a reflected signal to a non-reflected
signal and vice versa.
[0052] FIG. 7 is a side perspective view of treadmill 10
illustrating a cushioning assembly 60 according to one aspect of
the present invention. Cushioning assembly 60 is utilized in
connection with tread base 50. Tread base 50 provides a surface
allowing a user to exercise on treadmill 10. Tread base 50 is
coupled to frame 20 and drive motor assembly 40. Tread base 50
includes a proximal end 52, a distal end 54, an endless belt 55, a
deck 56, and a tread base frame 58. Proximal end 52 of tread base
50 is positioned adjacent to drive motor assembly 40. Distal end 54
is positioned away from drive motor assembly 40. Endless belt 55 is
trained around deck 56. Endless belt 55 provides a continuous
running surface simulating movement of a road base or other
ambulatory surface on which a user ambulates during exercise on
treadmill 10. Deck 56 provides support below endless belt 55 to
withstand impact from a user exercising thereon. According to one
embodiment of the present invention, deck 56 flexes during impact
to provide cushioning to a user exercising on tread base 50. Tread
base frame 58 provides a support structure upon which other
components of tread base 50 are coupled.
[0053] Cushioning assembly 60 is coupled to tread base 50.
Cushioning assembly 60 provides cushioning to control the amount of
deflection of deck 56 with respect to tread base frame 58.
According to one embodiment of the present invention, cushioning
assembly 60 automatically adjusts the amount of cushioning
experienced by the user on deck 56. The amount of cushioning
provided can be varied based on the weight, desired amount of
deflection of the deck, or other parameters that can be utilized to
customize the amount of cushioning provided by cushioning assembly
to a user exercising on tread base 50.
[0054] In the illustrated embodiment, cushioning assembly 60
comprises a variable cushioning mechanism 70 and a deflection
sensor assembly 80. Variable cushioning mechanism 70 provides a
mechanism for providing variable amounts of cushioning to a user
exercising on tread base 50. Deflection sensor assembly 80 provides
a mechanism for monitoring user parameters, such as the weight of
the user or body mass index of the user, to automatically adjust
the amount of cushioning provided by cushioning assembly 60.
[0055] In the illustrated embodiment, variable cushioning mechanism
70 includes a cushioning member 72. Cushioning member 72 is coupled
to a portion of tread base frame 58. Cushioning member 72 is
comprised of a resilient material that is utilized to absorb impact
on deck 56. Cushioning member 72 contacts deck 56 such that when a
user is exercising on deck 56 cushioning member 72 absorbs impact
while also controlling the amount of deflection of deck 56.
Variable cushioning mechanism 70 is one example of an adjustment
mechansism. Variable cushioning mechanism 70 will be discussed in
greater detail with reference to FIG. 8.
[0056] A variety of types and configurations of adjustment
mechanisms can be utilized without departing from the scope and
spirit of the present invention. For example, in one embodiment,
the adjustment mechanism is selected from one of the group
consisting of a rheologic mechanism, an airbag, a spring, an air
shock, a hydraulic cylinder, a hydraulic bellow, a leaf spring, a
coil spring, a solid hollow elastomeric member, a bellows, a
cylinder, and a gas shock.
[0057] In the illustrated embodiment, deflection sensor assembly 80
includes a sensor mechanism 82 and a deflection member 84.
Deflection member 84 is coupled to deck 56 such that deflection of
deck 56 result in movement of deflection member 84. Sensor
mechanism 82 is coupled to tread base frame 58. Sensor mechanism 82
detects movement of deflection member 84 and monitors the amount of
movement of deflection member 84. Based on the amount of movement
of deflection member 84 sensor mechanism is able to ascertain the
amount of deflection of deck 56. The deflection of the deck can be
utilized in a variety of manners without departing from the scope
and spirit of the present invention. For example, in one embodiment
the amount of deflection of the deck can be utilized to determine
if the user can safely use the treadmill. In one embodiment, a
small amount of deflection can allow the system to determine if a
child is positioned on the treadmill. Based on the determination,
the system can prevent movement of the endless belt.
[0058] A variety of types and methods for controlling cushioning of
the treadmill can be utilized without departing from the scope and
spirit of the present invention. In one embodiment, utilizing known
qualities of deck, the amount of deflection of deck can be used to
ascertain the weight of the user standing on deck. In another
embodiment, the amount of deflection of deck is used to maintain
desired amounts of cushioning for users of different weights. In
yet another embodiment, the amount of cushioning is set at a
pre-adjustment setting when the user first steps on the tread base
and is then adjusted as the user begins to exercise.
[0059] Utilizing the pre-adjustment setting allows the system to
approximate the cushioning setting that will provide the desired
amount of cushioning during exercise. For example, the amount of
cushioning can be controlled to maintain a desired amount of
deflection of the deck. For the sake of illustration, and without
restriction the following numerical description provides an example
of how a pre-adjustment setting can be utilized. In the example,
the amount of cushioning is adjusted to maintain the displacement
of the deck between 0.5 inches and 0.75 inches. When a heavy user
steps on the deck resulting in displacement of more than 0.75
inches, the amount of cushioning is decreased until the
displacement is less than 0.75 inches. When a light user steps on
the deck resulting in displacement of less than 0.5 inches, the
amount of cushioning is increased until the displacement is greater
than 0.5 inches. As the user begins to exercise deflection of the
deck increases due to the greater force exerted during running or
walking than when just standing on the deck. During exercise, the
amount of cushioning is adjusted if the displacement of the
treadmill is not between the target displacement of 0.75 inches and
1.0 inches. By utilizing the pre-adjustment setting between 0.5
inches and 0.75 inches, the amount of displacement experienced when
exercise is started will be approximately between the target of
0.75 inches and 1.0 inches.
[0060] Deflection sensor assembly can be utilized in a variety of
manners to sense parameters regarding the user. For example, the
body mass index of the user can be determined using the height and
automatically sensed weight of the user. In another embodiment,
indicia are utilized to illustrate a point on tread base on which
the user is to stand to accurately sense the height and weight of
the user. Deflection sensor assembly will be discussed in greater
detail with reference to FIG. 8. As will be appreciated by those
skilled in the art, the cushioning assembly of the present
invention can be utilized with a variety of types and
configurations of treadmills. For example, the cushioning assembly
can be utilized with a treadmill in which the deck does not flex to
absorb impact of the user exercising thereon.
[0061] FIG. 8 is a close up side view of cushioning assembly 60
illustrating variable cushioning mechanism 70 and deflection sensor
assembly 80. In the illustrated embodiment, variable cushioning
mechanism 70 is coupled to tread base frame 58 such that cushioning
member 72 contacts deck 56. Variable cushioning mechanism 70
includes cushioning member 72, lever arm 74, and moveable fulcrum
76. As previously discussed, cushioning member 72 is adapted to
contact deck 56 so as to absorb impact from a user exercising on
tread base 50. Cushioning member 72 is coupled to lever arm 74.
Lever arm 74 provides a variable amount of resistance based on the
effective length of the lever as determined by the position of
movable fulcrum 76 along the length of lever arm 74. Lever arm 74
is coupled to a cross member of tread base frame 58. Moveable
fulcrum 76 is positioned beneath lever arm 74 between cushioning
member 72 and the point of coupling with cross member 59.
[0062] When deck 56 deflects, force is exerted on cushioning member
72. In one embodiment, cushioning member 72 absorbs energy from the
deflection of deck 56. Lever arm 74 can flex and thus absorb some
of the energy from the deflection of deck 56. Moveable fulcrum 76
can be moved closer to, and away from, cushioning member 72. The
effective length of lever arm 74 and the amount of flexing of lever
arm 74 varies based on the position of moveable fulcrum 76. When
moveable fulcrum 76 is positioned close to, or directly below,
cushioning member 72 lever arm 74 flexes less than when movable
fulcrum is positioned nearer to point of coupling 59. The smaller
amount of flex of lever arm 74 results in a smaller amount of
deflection of deck 56. As a result, the user experiences less
cushioning and a stiffer deck during exercise on tread base 50.
When moveable fulcrum is positioned further from cushioning member
72, greater leverage can be exerted on lever arm 74 resulting in a
greater displacement of deck 56 and flexing of lever arm 74. As a
result the user experiences more cushioning and a softer deck when
a user is exercising on tread base.
[0063] Deflection sensor assembly 80 allows cushioning assembly 60
to automatically adjust the position of moveable fulcrum 76 to
provide a desired amount of cushioning from variable cushioning
mechanism 70. Because deflection of the deck is based in part on
the weight of the person exercising on deck 56 moveable fulcrum 76
can be repositioned to maintain a desired amount of cushioning when
a user of a different weight begins to exercise on deck 56. For
example, if an intermediate amount of cushioning is selected,
moveable fulcrum 76 will be moved toward cushioning member 72 when
a relatively light weight user is replaced by a heavier user.
[0064] In the illustrated embodiment, deflection sensor assembly 80
is configured to sense differences in the weight of a new user
positioned on deck 56 to automatically make adjustments to variable
cushioning mechanism 70 to maintain a desired level of cushioning.
As previously discussed, deflection member 84 is coupled to deck 56
of tread base 50. When a user is positioned on tread base 50, deck
56 deflects in a downward direction. Such deflection is sensed by
sensor mechanism 82. The amount of movement of deflection member 84
is monitored and the weight of the user positioned on tread base 50
is ascertained. Based on the known weight of the user, moveable
fulcrum 76 can be repositioned to maintain the desired degree of
cushioning provided by variable cushioning mechanism 70.
[0065] In one embodiment, the variable cushioning mechanism 70 is
given a pre-adjustment setting based on a coarse weight reading of
the user when the user first is positioned on the deck. Once the
user begins to exercise, the variable cushioning mechanism 70
undergoes additional adjustment to fine tune the amount of
cushioning subsequent to the coarse weight reading. By providing a
pre-adjustment setting based on a coarse weight reading, the
variable cushioning mechanism 70 can more closely approximate the
desired amount of cushioning before the user starts exercising.
Thus, even before the exact weight or desired setting of the
variable cushioning mechanism is ascertained, a rough estimation of
the setting of the variable cushioning mechanism is provided. In
one embodiment, a variety of coarse weight categories are
determined with a pre-adjustment setting for the variable
cushioning mechanism being associated with each coarse weight
category. When the user steps on the deck 56, the coarse weight
reading of the user is ascertained, associated with a weight
category, and then the variable cushioning mechanism is
automatically adjusted to the pre-adjustment setting associated
with coarse weight category.
[0066] A variety of types and configuration of sensors can be
utilized in a variety of manners without departing from the scope
and spirit of the present invention. For example, in one embodiment
the deflection sensor assembly comprises a hall effect sensor. In
another embodiment, the deflection sensor is from a group
comprising an optical sensor, a magnetic sensor, a potentiometer, a
linear potentiometer, or a rotary potentiometer, a contact sensor,
a contact sensing device. In another embodiment, the sensor detects
the weight of the user without sensing deflection of the deck.
[0067] It will also be appreciated, that deflection sensor assembly
80 and variable cushioning mechanisms 70 can be utilized to provide
additional functionality other than maintaining a desired degree of
cushioning relative to users of different weights" For example, a
user of a constant weight may desire a change in the amount of
cushioning provided by variable cushioning mechanism 70 based on
the type or intensity of exercise to be performed. For example, a
user may select a large amount of cushioning for a long and slow
paced workout while desiring a small amount of cushioning for a
shorter more intense workout. By selecting a change in the amount
of cushioning desired, moveable fulcrum 76 can be repositioned
along the length of lever arm 74 to accommodate such changes in the
desired amount of cushioning. Additionally, it will be appreciated
that the location of the user on tread base 50 is not the only
factor affecting the deflection of deck 56. For example, deflection
of deck 56 can be a function of the amount of force exerted by the
user on deck 56 during an exercise routine. A user having a
constant weight will exert a given amount of pressure on deck 56
when walking and relatively greater amount of pressure on deck 56,
resulting in a larger deflection of deck 56, when running at full
speed. Such changes in deflection can be monitored by deflection
sensor assembly 80. In response to changes in deflection, moveable
fulcrum 76 can be moved along the length of lever arm 74 to
maintain a desired degree of cushioning during an exercise routine
in which the force exerted by the user on deck 56 changes during
the routine.
[0068] FIG. 9 illustrates a bottom perspective view of treadmill 10
illustrating components of cushioning assembly 60 according to one
aspect of the present invention. In the illustrated embodiment,
variable cushioning mechanism 70 includes cushioning members 72a,
b, lever arms 74a, b, moveable fulcrums 76a, b and a transverse bar
78. Cushioning members 76a, b are positioned on each side of deck
56 to provide a bilateral and predetermined amount of cushioning on
deck 56. Additionally, lever arms 74a, b and moveable fulcrums 76a,
b are positioned on either side of deck 56 to provide the desired
level of cushioning on deck 56.
[0069] Transverse bar 78 is positioned between moveable fulcrum
76a, b. Transverse bar 78 facilitates uniform movement of moveable
fulcrum 76a, b to maintain an equal amount of displacement of
moveable fulcrums 76a, b. By maintaining an equal amount of
displacement of movable fulcrums 76a, b, a consistent amount of
cushioning is provided by lever arms 74a, b and cushioning members
72a, b. Transverse bar 78 is coupled to adjustment rod 90.
Adjustment rod 90 is coupled to cushioning adjustment motor 92.
[0070] Cushioning adjustment motor 92 causes lengthening and
shortening of adjustment rod 90. As adjustment rod 90 lengthens and
shortens, movement of transverse bar 78 occurs proximally and
distally along the length of moveable fulcrum 76a, b. Movement of
transverse bar 78 results in movement of moveable fulcrum 76a, b
and a change in the amount of cushioning provided by variable
cushioning mechanism 70. As will be appreciated by those skilled in
the art, a variety of types and configurations of cushioning
assembly 60 can be used without departing from the scope and spirit
of the present invention. For example, in one embodiment a lead
screw assembly is utilized to cause movement of the moveable
fulcrum. In another embodiment, a single cushioning member is
positioned across the entire lateral length of the deck. In another
embodiment, a plurality of variable cushioning mechanisms are
positioned along the length of tread base. In another embodiment, a
cushioning assembly is adapted to provide a variable amount of
cushioning with a treadmill in which the cushioning is provided by
mechanisms other than the treadmill deck.
[0071] FIG. 10 is a block diagram view illustrating operation of
cushioning assembly 60 according to one aspect of the present
invention. In the illustrated embodiment, when the weight of the
user is placed on deck 56, deflection sensor assembly 80 detects
deflection of deck 56 and conveys the amount of deflection to
controller 101. Controller 101 ascertains the weight of the user
based on the reported deflection and known properties of deck 56.
The user inputs the desired amount of cushioning to be provided by
the variable cushioning mechanism 70 by inputting the desired
amount of cushioning into user cushioning selection pad 100.
According to one embodiment of the present invention, user
cushioning selection pad 100 is provided in the user interface of
console 30.
[0072] Based on the weight of the user and information regarding
the desired amount of cushioning input into user cushioning
selection pad 100, controller 101 sends cushioning instructions to
cushioning adjustment motor 92 of variable cushioning mechanism 70.
The cushioning adjustment motor 92 causes movement of moveable
fulcrum 76a, b to change the amount of cushioning to the desired
amount of cushioning. In this manner, cushioning assembly 60
automatically detects the weight of the user and adjusts the amount
of cushioning provided by variable cushioning mechanism 70 such
that the amount of cushioning provided is appropriate based on the
desired amount of cushioning selected by the user.
[0073] As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, a
variety of types and configurations of controllers can be utilized
without departing from the scope and spirit of the present
invention. For example, in one embodiment the controller comprises
an input mechanism that allows the user to input a desired amount
of cushioning. In one embodiment, the desired amount of cushioning
is selected from a group consisting of hard, medium or soft
cushioning. In another embodiment, the desired amount of cushioning
can be selected from a continuum of amounts of cushioning.
[0074] According to one embodiment of the present invention, any
changes in deflection of deck 56 are sensed by deflection sensor
80, and conveyed back to controller 101. Such changes in deflection
of deck 56 can be caused by an increased impact force related to
the intensity of the user's workout; changes in the weight of the
user subsequent to a change in user; or other factors such as the
use of weights added during the exercise routine. Additionally, any
changes in the desired amount of cushioning to be provided by
variable cushioning mechanism 70 can be monitored by controller
101. As a result, any combination of changes in reported deflection
and desired amount of cushioning input by user can result in new
cushioning instructions to variable cushioning mechanism 70. Such
instructions can result in change of the position of moveable
fulcrums 76a, b to change the amount of cushioning provided by
lever arm 74 and cushioning member 72.
[0075] As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, a
variety of types and combinations of cushioning assemblies can be
utilized without departing from the scope and spirit of the present
invention. For example, the controller can be automatically set to
change the amount of cushioning based on the amount of deflection
of deck. In another embodiment, the deflection sensor and
controller can be integrally coupled into a single unit. In another
embodiment, the deflection sensor is actuated only in response to
user input on the user cushioning selection pad. Any variety of
combinations of cushioning assemblies and moveable consoles can be
utilized without departing from the scope and spirit of the present
invention. The disclosure of patent application entitled,
"Treadmill with Movable Console", filed Jan. 9, 2004 of Express
Mail Number EV 396 740 450 US, is hereby incorporated by reference
in its entirety.
[0076] The present invention may be embodied in other specific
forms without departing from its spirit or essential
characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in
all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of
the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims
rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come
within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be
embraced within their scope.
* * * * *