U.S. patent application number 11/340148 was filed with the patent office on 2007-02-01 for exercise treadmill.
This patent application is currently assigned to Fitness Quest Inc.. Invention is credited to Michael R. Clark, John R. McVay, Detlev F. Smith.
Application Number | 20070027002 11/340148 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 37695112 |
Filed Date | 2007-02-01 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070027002 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Clark; Michael R. ; et
al. |
February 1, 2007 |
Exercise treadmill
Abstract
A new and improved exercise treadmill may include a frame having
a first end and a second end, wherein the second end is parallel to
the first end. Two side rails interconnect the first and second
end. The treadmill may further comprise a motor in order to drive a
belt, which is trained over a front roller and a rear roller. A
deck is positioned underneath the belt in order to support the
user. At the first end of the treadmill, first and second arms
extend upwardly and terminate in the protective shroud. The shroud
may further comprise a console which contains push buttons for
operating various programs while using the treadmill. The treadmill
may further comprise two handles, which extend parallel to the
deck. The treadmill may comprise a console that may have programs
which may be started by pushing one button. It may also comprise a
belt tensioning device, which provides a visual indicator so that
the rear roller may be moved on each end in equal distance relative
to the front roller. Another feature of the invention is a slot
between the side rails and the frame so that an extended member can
be inserted therein to lubricate the belt.
Inventors: |
Clark; Michael R.;
(Wadsworth, OH) ; McVay; John R.; (Canton, OH)
; Smith; Detlev F.; (Fairlawn, OH) |
Correspondence
Address: |
BROUSE MCDOWELL LPA
388 SOUTH MAIN STREET
SUITE 500
AKRON
OH
44311
US
|
Assignee: |
Fitness Quest Inc.
|
Family ID: |
37695112 |
Appl. No.: |
11/340148 |
Filed: |
January 26, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60704303 |
Aug 1, 2005 |
|
|
|
60710758 |
Aug 24, 2005 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
482/54 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 22/0221 20151001;
A63B 22/0235 20130101; A63B 2225/30 20130101; A63B 2220/76
20130101; A63B 2230/06 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/054 |
International
Class: |
A63B 22/02 20060101
A63B022/02 |
Claims
1. An exercise device, comprising: a frame having a front end and a
rear end, and first and second side rails extending longitudinally
between said first end and said second ends; a deck operatively
connected to said frame; a front roller and a rear roller
operatively connected to said frame; and, a belt trained about said
front and rear rollers, wherein said first side rail has a first
space defined therein, said first space adapted to provide access
for maintenance.
2. The exercise device of claim 1, further comprising a wiper
assembly operatively connected to said deck, said wiper assembly
selectively positionable between a first contact position where a
wiper blade contacts an inner surface of said belt and a second
no-contact position where said wiper blade does not contact said
inner surface of said belt.
3. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein an associated elongated
strip is inserted into said first space and then between said deck
and said belt so as to spread an associated lubricant between said
deck and said belt.
4. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein said second side rail
has a second space defined therein.
5. The exercise device of claim 4, wherein an associated elongated
strip is adapted to be inserted into said second space and then
between said deck and said belt so as to spread a lubricant between
said deck and said belt.
6. A system for maintaining a treadmill, comprising: a frame having
a front end and a rear end, and first and second side rails
extending longitudinally between said front end and said rear end;
a deck operatively connected to said frame; a front roller and a
rear roller operatively connected to said frame; and a belt trained
about said front and rear rollers, wherein said first side rail has
a space defined therein; and an elongated strip adapted to be
inserted into said space and then between said deck and said belt
so that to spread a lubricant between said deck and said belt.
7. The system of claim 6, wherein said elongated strip has a length
greater than or equal to said width of said belt.
8. The system of claim 6, wherein said system further comprises a
motor operatively connected to said frame, said motor adapted to
move said belt, wherein said elongated strip is adapted to remain
in said space and between said deck and said belt while said belt
is rotating about said rollers.
9. The system of claim 6, further comprising a wiper assembly
operatively connected to said frame, said wiper assembly adapted to
move relative to said belt such that a wiper selectively contacts
an inner surface of said belt.
10. The system of claim 6, wherein said space has a width sized to
receive said elongated strip so that said strip can only move in a
transverse direction.
11. The system of claim 6, wherein said space has a width sized to
received said elongated strip so that said strip can move in
transverse and longitudinal directions.
12. A method for lubricating a treadmill belt, the method
comprising the steps of: providing a frame having a front end and a
rear end, and first and second side rails extending longitudinally
between said front end and said rear end; a deck operatively
connected to said frame; a front roller and a rear roller
operatively connected to said frame; a belt trained about said
front and rear rollers, wherein said first side rail has a space
defined therein; and an elongated strip; inserting said elongated
strip into said space; positioning said strip between said deck and
said belt; and distributing lubricant.
13. The method of claim 12, wherein said belt has an outer surface,
an inner surface, a top run, and a bottom run.
14. The method of claim 13, wherein said step of positioning said
strip between said deck and said belt further comprises the step
of: positioning said strip between said inner surface of said top
run of said belt and said deck.
15. The method of claim 13, wherein said step of positioning said
strip between said deck and said belt further comprises the step
of: positioning said strip between said inner surface of said
bottom run of said belt and said deck.
16. The method of claim 12, wherein said step of distributing
lubricant further comprises the step of: moving said elongated
strip in a transverse direction.
17. The method of claim 12, wherein said step of distributing
lubricant further comprises the step of: moving said elongated
strip in a longitudinal direction.
18. The method of claim 12, wherein said treadmill further
comprises a motor operatively connected to said frame to rotate one
of said rollers so as to rotate said belt, wherein said step of
distributing lubricant further comprises the step of: distributing
lubricant by rotating said belt while said motor is operating.
19. The method of claim 12, further comprising a wiper assembly
operatively connected to said deck, said wiper assembly comprising
a wiper blade operatively connected to an elongated member and a
handle operatively connected to said elongated member.
20. The method further of claim 19, further comprising the steps
of: pivoting said handle, pivoting said elongated member; and
pivoting said wiper blade such that said wiper blade selectively
contacts an underside of said belt; and removing debris from said
underside of said belt.
Description
[0001] This application claims priority from a provisional patent
application having serial number 60/704,303, which was filed Aug.
1, 2005. This application also claims priority from a provisional
patent application having serial number 60/710,758, which was filed
Aug. 24, 2005. Both provisional patent applications are
incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] A. Field of Invention
[0003] This invention pertains to the art of methods and
apparatuses for exercise treadmills. More specifically, it pertains
to apparatuses and methods for various features of exercise
treadmills, including but not limited to, one touch program
buttons, a belt tensioning device, resilient support members to
provide shock absorption, and mechanisms for easy treadmill
maintenance.
[0004] B. Description of the Related Art
[0005] It is known in the art that exercise combined with a well
balanced diet is important for good general health. Many exercise
through various means including working out at home, taking
advantage of good weather by jogging or walking outside, and many
frequent their local gym. Regardless of the location, walking,
jogging, and running are some of the most common and popular
methods of achieving a cardiovascular work-out. For the exerciser's
convenience, a treadmill is often utilized at home or at a gym.
Treadmills to date, have served their intended purpose. They
provide a variety of functions, including various speeds, various
deck inclination, shock absorption, and even foldability for easy
storage when the treadmill is not in use. However, despite the
numerous features found in treadmills today, many problems still
exist with respect to programming keys, treadmill maintenance, and
the ability to maintain proper tension on the treadmill belt.
[0006] With respect to programming keys on a console, normally,
there are pictures of various programs on the console. As a user
chooses which program to use, they must press a "select" key and
then an "enter" key. The user may also need to use arrows keys to
scroll through the various program choices. This may become
cumbersome and frustrating to the user as they try to switch
between programs. As such, there is a need in the art to construct
a console for a treadmill that has one-touch programmability.
[0007] Another problem in the art is the ability to maintain proper
belt tension on the treadmill belt. To date, there are mechanisms
available to tighten the belt by increasing the distance between
the front and rear roller. Usually, it is the rear roller that is
adjusted while the front roller remains stationary. It is difficult
to use because current devices utilize Allen screws. In some
embodiments, the user has two alien screws. One has to be turned
clockwise, and the other has to be turned counterclockwise. One of
the problems associated with these designs is the awkwardness of
fitting an alien wrench into the screws for adjustment.
[0008] Another problem with belt tensioning devices is the lack of
a visual indicator. Without a visual indicator, a consumer can
easily over tighten one side of the rear roller so that it is
farther or closer than the other side. If one of the treadmill
rollers is even a little bit off, meaning not parallel with the
other roller, it can cause the belt to wander and the motor to
overstress. By providing a visual indicator on both sides of the
roller, the user can easily adjust the distance between the rollers
for even belt tension. By providing instant feedback to the user,
the adjustment is easy and no guesswork is required.
[0009] Still yet, another problem faced by treadmill users is
maintenance. Over time, belts need to be lubricated in order to
reduce friction between the belt and the deck. The difficulty in
lubricating the belt is obtaining access to the deck. Normally,
when a user decides to clean the underside of a deck, the preferred
method is to lift the belt, which may cause the belt to stretch,
and to slide something underneath it. More and more treadmills are
manufactured where one side of the belt actually disappears under
the side paneling. Because the belt is trained around the rollers
at high tension, it is very difficult to access the deck without
torquing the belt, stretching the belt, or causing the belt to lift
up. As such, there is a need in the art to provide access to the
belt so that it can be easily lubricated without compromising the
characteristics of the belt.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0010] According to one aspect of the present invention, a new and
improved exercise treadmill is provided which comprises a frame
having a first end and a second end, wherein the second end is
parallel to the first end. Two side rails interconnect the first
and second ends of the frame. The treadmill may further comprise a
motor in order to drive a belt, which is trained over a front
roller and a rear roller. A deck is positioned underneath a top run
of the belt in order to support the user. At the first end of the
treadmill, first and second arms extend upwardly and terminate in
the protective shroud. The shroud may further comprise a console
which contains push buttons for operating various programs while
using the treadmill. The treadmill may further comprise two
handles, which extend parallel to the deck.
[0011] One object of the present invention is to provide a
treadmill that may comprise a console that may have programs which
may be started by pushing one button.
[0012] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
belt tensioning device, which provides a visual indicator so that
the rear roller may be moved on each end in equal distance relative
to the front roller.
[0013] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide
a belt tensioning mechanism, wherein the rear roller may be
displaced by turning a knob at the end of the treadmill.
[0014] Another object of the present invention is to provide a belt
tensioning mechanism, where the visual indication may be by a scale
having indicia, such as letters or numbers.
[0015] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide
a treadmill that has a visual indicator that is digital.
[0016] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide
an exercise treadmill which comprises a space within or beside the
side rails so that an extended member may be easily inserted
beneath the belt and over the deck in order to lubricate the
belt.
[0017] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide
an exercise treadmill that may have a maintenance mechanism that
comprises a wiper, which may be selectively positioned in order to
remove dust and other debris off the underside of the belt.
[0018] Another object of the present invention is to provide an
exercise device, comprising a frame, a rod operatively connected to
the frame, protrusion means for turning the rod; and, an indicator
adapted to track the number of revolutions of the rod.
[0019] Still, another object of the present invention is to provide
an exercise device, wherein the rod, the protrusion means, and the
indicator may be positioned on one side of the exercise device, the
exercise device may further comprise a second rod, second
protrusion means for turning the second rod, and a second indicator
adapted to track the number of revolutions of the second rod.
[0020] Further, another object of the present invention is to
provide an exercise device, wherein the second rod, the second
protrusion means, and the second indicator may be laterally spaced
from the first rod, the protrusion means and the indicator.
[0021] Another object of the present invention is to provide an
exercise device, wherein the exercise device may be a treadmill
having a front roller and a rear roller, the front roller and the
rear roller being substantially parallel, wherein the rods, the
protrusion means and the visual indicators may be adapted to change
the distance between the front roller and the rear roller.
[0022] Further yet, another object of the present invention is to
provide an exercise device, wherein the protrusion means may be a
knob.
[0023] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide an
exercise device, wherein the protrusion means may extend outwardly
from the frame such that the protrusion means may be turned without
an associated tool.
[0024] Still, another object of the present invention is to provide
an exercise device wherein the protrusion means may extend
outwardly from the frame about 1/2 an inch.
[0025] It is yet another object of the present invention is to
provide an exercise device, wherein the indicator may further
comprise indicia and an indication member adapted to move relative
to the indicia.
[0026] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide an
exercise device, wherein the indicia may be an alphanumeric
scale.
[0027] Further, another object of the present invention is to
provide an exercise device, wherein at least part of the indicator
may be digital.
[0028] Still another object of the present invention is to provide
an exercise device, wherein the exercise device may be a
treadmill.
[0029] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide
a treadmill, which may comprise a frame having a first side rail
and a second side rail, wherein the second side rail is oppositely
disposed from the first side rail; a front roller; a rear roller; a
deck; a belt trained around the front roller and the rear roller, a
portion of the belt positioned over the deck; a first belt
tensioning mechanism, which may comprise a first rod operatively
connected to the first side rail; first protrusion means for
turning the first rod; and, a first visual indicator adapted to
track the number of revolutions of the first rod; a second belt
tensioning mechanism, which may comprise a second rod operatively
connected to the second side rail; second protrusion means for
turning the second rod; and, a second visual indicator adapted to
track the number of revolutions of the second rod.
[0030] Another object of the present invention is to provide a
treadmill wherein the first belt tensioning device and the second
belt tensioning device may be adapted to maintain the rear roller
substantially parallel to the front roller.
[0031] Still another object of the present invention is to provide
a treadmill, wherein the rear roller may be adapted to move
laterally relative to the front roller.
[0032] Further another object of the present invention is to
provide a treadmill, wherein the first protrusion means may be a
rotatable knob.
[0033] Further yet, another object of the present invention to
provide a treadmill, wherein each of the rollers may have an axle
passing though a longitudinal axis, the axle having first and
second ends, the first end and the second end having a hole defined
therein, wherein the first protrusion means and the second
protrusion means each comprising a knob having the rod extending
therefrom, the rod adapted to pass through the respective holes of
the axle.
[0034] Yet another object of the present invention to provide a
treadmill, wherein the first visual indicator may further comprise
indicia and an indication member adapted to move relative to the
indicia, the indication member operatively connected to the first
end of the axle.
[0035] Further, another object of the present invention is to
provide a treadmill, wherein the indication member may comprise a
substantially horizontal base operatively connected to the first
end of the axle; an upwardly extending portion operatively
connected to the base; and a substantially horizontal pointer
operatively connected to the upwardly extending portion, the
horizontal pointer adapted to be visibly located near the
indicia.
[0036] Another object of the present invention to provide a method
for placing tension on a belt of an exercise device, the method may
comprise the steps of:
[0037] providing a frame having a first side rail and a second side
rail, wherein the second side rails is oppositely disposed from the
first side rail; a front roller; a rear roller; a deck; a belt
trained around the front roller and the rear roller, a portion of
the belt positioned over the deck; a first belt tensioning
mechanism, comprising: a first rod operatively connected to the
first side rail; first protrusion means for turning the first rod;
and, a first visual indicator adapted to track the number of
revolutions of the first rod; a second belt tensioning mechanism,
comprising: a second rod operatively connected to the second side
rail; second protrusion means for turning the second rod; and, a
second visual indicator adapted to track the number of revolutions
of the second rod;
[0038] turning the first protrusion means;
[0039] moving a first end of the rear roller away from the front
roller;
[0040] turning the second protrusion means;
[0041] moving a second end of the rear roller away from the front
roller; and,
[0042] reading the first visual indicator and the second visual
indicator so that a first end and a second end of the rear roller
are substantially equidistant from a first end and a second end of
the front roller.
[0043] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
method for placing tension on a belt of an exercise device, which
may further comprise the step of turning the first protrusion means
and/or the second protrusion means such that the first visual
indicator and the second visual indicator show that the rear roller
is substantially parallel to the front roller.
[0044] Another object of the present invention is to provide a
treadmill, which may comprise a frame having a front end and a rear
end, and first and second side rails extending longitudinally
between the front end and the rear end; a deck operatively
connected to the frame; and a belt trained about a front roller and
a rear roller, wherein the first side rail has a space defined
therein, the space adapted to provide access for maintenance.
[0045] Further another object of the present invention is to
provide a treadmill which may comprise a wiper assembly operatively
connected to the deck, the wiper assembly adapted to pivot relative
to the belt such that a wiper selectively contacts an underside of
the belt.
[0046] Still another object of the present invention is to provide
a treadmill, wherein an associated elongated strip may be inserted
into the space and then between the deck and the belt so as to
spread an associated lubricant between the deck and the belt.
[0047] Still yet another object of the present invention is to
provide a treadmill wherein the second side rail may have a space
defined therein.
[0048] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a
treadmill, wherein an associated elongated strip may be inserted
into the space and then between the deck and the belt so that to
spread a lubricant between the deck and the belt.
[0049] Another object of the present invention is to provide a
system for maintaining a treadmill, which may comprise a frame
having a front end and a rear end, and first and second side rails
extending longitudinally between the front end and the rear end; a
deck operatively connected to the frame; and a belt trained about a
front roller and a rear roller, wherein the first side rail has a
space defined therein; and an elongated strip adapted to be
inserted into the space and then between the deck and the belt so
that to spread a lubricant between the deck and the belt.
[0050] Further, another object of the present invention is to
provide a system for maintaining a treadmill, wherein the elongated
strip may have a length greater than or equal to the width of the
belt.
[0051] It is yet another object of the present invention is to
provide a system for maintaining a treadmill, wherein the frame may
further comprise a motor operatively connected to the frame, the
motor adapted to move the belt, wherein the elongated strip is
adapted to remain in the space and between the deck and the belt
while the belt is rotating about the rollers.
[0052] Still yet, another object of the present invention is to
provide a system for maintaining a treadmill, and may further
comprise a wiper assembly operatively connected to the deck, the
wiper assembly adapted to pivot relative to the belt such that a
wiper selectively contacts an underside of the belt. Another object
of the present invention is to provide a method for lubricating a
treadmill belt
[0053] Further yet, another object of the present invention is to
provide a system for maintaining a treadmill, wherein the space may
have a width sized to receive the elongated strip so that the strip
can only move in a transverse direction.
[0054] Another object of the present invention is to provide a
system for maintaining a treadmill, wherein the space may have a
width sized to received the elongated strip so that the strip can
move in transverse and longitudinal directions.
[0055] Another object of the present invention is to provide a
method for lubricating a treadmill belt, the method may comprise
the steps of:
[0056] providing a frame having a front end and a rear end, and
first and second side rails extending longitudinally between the
front end and the rear end; a deck operatively connected to the
frame; and a belt trained about a front roller and a rear roller,
wherein the first side rail has a space defined therein; and an
elongated strip;
[0057] inserting the elongated strip into the space;
[0058] positioning the strip between the deck and the belt; and
[0059] distributing lubricant.
[0060] Further, another object of the present invention is to
provide a method for lubricating a treadmill belt, wherein the belt
has an outer surface, an inner surface, a top run, and a bottom
run.
[0061] Another object of the present invention is to provide a
method for lubricating a treadmill belt, wherein the step of
positioning the strip between the deck and the belt may further
comprise positioning the strip between the inner surface of the top
run of the belt and the deck.
[0062] Still yet another object of the present invention is to
provide a method for lubricating a treadmill belt, wherein the step
of positioning the strip between the deck and the belt may further
comprise positioning the strip between the deck and the inner
surface of the bottom run.
[0063] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a
method for lubricating a treadmill belt, wherein the step of
distributing lubricant may further comprise the step of moving the
elongated strip along a transverse axis.
[0064] Another object of the present invention is to provide a
method for lubricating a treadmill belt, wherein the step of
distributing lubricant may further comprise the step of moving the
elongated strip along a longitudinal axis.
[0065] Still another object of the present invention is to provide
a method for lubricating a treadmill belt, wherein the treadmill
may further comprise a motor operatively connected to the frame to
rotate one of the rollers so as to rotate the belt, wherein the
step of distributing lubricant may further comprise distributing
lubricant by rotating the belt while the motor is operating.
[0066] Further another object of the present invention is to
provide a method for lubricating a treadmill belt, which may
further comprise a wiper assembly operatively connected to the
deck, the wiper assembly comprising a wiper blade operatively
connected to an elongated member and a handle operatively connected
to the elongated member.
[0067] Another object of the present invention is to provide a
method for lubricating a treadmill belt, which may further comprise
the steps of:
[0068] pivoting the handle,
[0069] pivoting the elongated member; and
[0070] pivoting the wiper blade such that the wiper blade
selectively contacts an underside of the belt; and
[0071] removing debris from the underside of the belt.
[0072] Still other benefits and advantages of the invention will
become apparent to those skilled in the art to which it pertains
upon a reading and understanding of the following detailed
specification.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0073] The invention may take physical form in certain parts and
arrangement of parts, a preferred embodiment of which will be
described in detail in this specification and illustrated in the
accompanying drawings which form a part hereof and wherein:
[0074] FIG. 1 is a side view of the present invention.
[0075] FIG. 2 is a top view of the present invention.
[0076] FIG. 3 is a top segmented view of the present invention.
[0077] FIG. 4 is a side view of FIG. 3.
[0078] FIG. 5 is exploded perspective view of one feature of the
present invention.
[0079] FIG. 6 is top view of one feature of the present
invention.
[0080] FIG. 7 is a left elevational view of FIG. 6.
[0081] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 6.
[0082] FIG. 9 is a top perspective view of the present
invention.
[0083] FIG. 10 is a segmented perspective view of the present
invention.
[0084] FIG. 11 is another segmented perspective view of the present
invention.
[0085] FIG. 12 is an exploded perspective view of one feature of
the present invention.
[0086] FIG. 13 is a top view of another feature of the present
invention.
[0087] FIG. 14 is an elevational view of FIG. 13.
[0088] FIG. 15 is an enlarged perspective view of the console.
[0089] FIG. 16 is an enlarged perspective view of the console.
[0090] FIG. 17 is an enlarged perspective view of the console.
[0091] FIG. 18 is a front elevational view of the wiper
assembly.
[0092] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the wiper assembly.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0093] Referring now to the drawings, FIGS. 1-19, wherein the
showings are for purposes of illustrating embodiments of the
invention only and not for purposes of limiting the same, FIGS. 1,
2, 5, and 12 show various views of an exercise device 10 in the
form of a treadmill 12. It is noted that the present invention(s)
may be used on any type of exercise equipment which utilizes belts,
such as but not limited to a combination treadmill and stepper. The
treadmill 12 comprises a frame 14 having a first end 16 and a
second end 18. The frame 14 shown includes a first side rail 20 and
an oppositely disposed second side rail 22 interconnecting the
first end 16 and the second end 18. The treadmill further comprises
a front roller 50, having a first end 52 and a second end 54. The
front roller 50 may have a hole 56 extending through the front
roller's longitudinal axis 58. An axle 60 may be inserted into the
hole 56 and connected to the frame 14 so that the front roller 50
may be operatively connected to the frame 14. Further, a rear
roller 62 is oppositely disposed and substantially parallel to the
front roller 50. The rear roller 62 has a first end 64, a second
end 66, and a hole 68 extending along longitudinal axis 70 that
receives axle 69. A belt 24 is trained about the front roller 50
and the rear roller 62. The belt 24 has an inner surface 26, and an
outer surface 28, a top run 30 and a bottom run 32. The belt 24 is
trained about the front roller 50, the second roller 62, and a deck
34 (shown in FIG. 12). The deck 34 is operatively connected to the
frame 14 and it has a top surface 36 and a bottom surface 38. The
top surface 36 of the deck 34 is adapted to contact or be in close
proximity to the inner surface 26 of the top run 30 of the belt 24.
At the first end the 16 of the treadmill 12, a motor 40 (shown in
schematic form in FIG. 5) is utilized to rotate the front roller
50. The motor 40 maybe any motor chosen in accordance with sound
engineering judgment. The motor 40 may have a transmission (not
shown) in order to adjust the belt 24 speed. The motor 40 may have
an output drive shaft 41 and may utilize a drive belt 43
operatively connecting the drive shaft 41 to one of the ends of the
axle 60, as shown. As such, rotation of the drive shaft 41 drives
and rotates the front roller 50, which in turn rotates the belt
24.
[0094] With reference now to FIGS. 1 and 2, the first end 16 of the
treadmill 12 may include upwardly extending arms 13 which extend
from the frame 14 to terminate in a protective shroud 44. The
shroud 44 may further comprise a console 110 which contains push
buttons 112 for operating various programs while using the
treadmill 12. The console 110 may be disposed between a left wing
116 and a right wing 118. Cup holders 120 may also be integrated
within the shroud 44. Also, bars 122 may extend outwardly between
the console 110 and the left and right wings 116, 118. The
treadmill 12 may further comprise two handles 114 operatively
connected to the left and right wings 116, 118, which may extend
parallel to the deck 34. The length of the handles 114 may be any
length chosen with sound engineering judgment, and it is
contemplated that they may extend as long as the length of the side
rails 20, 22. Electrodes 124 may be provided for use in detecting
heart rate, pulse and the like. The electrodes 124 may be mounted
to the treadmill 12 in any manner chosen with sound engineering
judgment such as by mounting them to one of the bars 122 (as shown)
or to one of the handles 114.
[0095] With continuing reference to FIGS. 1-2 and also to FIGS.
15-17, additional optional features of the console 110 will now be
described. The console 110 includes a housing 111, which has the
buttons 112 mounted thereon. The buttons 112 electrically
communicate with a circuit board (not shown). The circuit board
activates the motor 40 (illustrated in FIG. 5) in order to move the
belt 24 as described above. The console 110 may comprise an incline
gradation from one percent (1%) to twelve percent (12%) although
other incline graduations chosen with sound engineering judgment
can also be used. Similarly, the speed may range from one mile per
hour to twelve miles per hour although other speeds and speed
ranges chosen with sound engineering judgment can also be used.
Various program keys are also included such that the user can push
a button one time in order to achieve a desired workout. These may
include, but are not limited to, a hill walk, a mountain pass,
pike's peak, fat burning, walking, jogging, cardio burn, walking
intensity, jogging intensity, hill intensity, and mountain
intensity. Other push buttons may include target distance, target
calories, target time, target elevation gain, pre-programmed user
buttons, a weight loss button, and a cardio button. A fan 113 may
be included on the console 110.
[0096] With reference now to FIGS. 3-8, a first belt tension
mechanism 72 and a second belt tension mechanism 74 are shown.
Having a mechanism to adjust belt tension results in longer
treadmill belt life, and therefore, is often desirable. Over time,
the belt 24 stretches as a user walks, jogs, or runs on it at
various speeds and under various loads. As such, the belt may
stretch and the extra slack needs to be accounted for. In order to
increase tension on the belt 24, the distance between the rear
roller 62 and the front roller 50 should be increased, in order to
place appropriate tension on the belt 24. It is contemplated to be
within the scope of the present invention to adjust either the rear
roller, 62, the front roller 50, or both rollers. In one embodiment
of the present invention, the first belt tension mechanism 72
comprises a first rod 76 operatively connected to the frame 14,
which may be at the first side rail 20, first protrusion means 78
for turning the first rod 76 and a first indicator 80 adapted to
track the number of revolutions of the first rod 76. Further, the
second belt tension mechanism 74 comprises a second rod 82, second
protrusion means 84, and a second indicator 86, which is configured
similarly of the first belt tension mechanism 72.
[0097] The first and second belt tension mechanisms 72, 74 offer
several advantages. First, the first and second protrusion means
78, 84 enables the user to adjust the first rod 76 and the second
rod 82 without the use of a tool. As such, tools are not lost and
the mechanisms 72, 74 are easy to adjust. Further, the first
indicator 80 and the second indicator 86 enable the user to easily
identify whether or not the first and second ends 64, 66 of the
rear roller 62 have been moved the same distance relative to the
front roller 50. By enabling the user to easily identify the
position of the rear roller 62, meaning if it is substantially
parallel to the front roller 50, belt tension is even, which
results in even wear and prolongs belt life.
[0098] With continuing reference to FIGS. 3-8, the first rod 76,
the first protrusion means 78 and the first indicator 80 may be
positioned on one side of the treadmill 12 adjacent to the first
side rail 20. Similarly, the second belt tension mechanism 74
including the second rod 82, the second protrusion means 84 and the
second indictor 86 may be disposed adjacent to the second side rail
22. As shown in the FIGURES, the first and second protrusion means
78, 84 may take the form of a knob 88. Generally, a knob is easy
for a user to grasp and rotate. Of course, any protrusion chosen
with sound engineer judgment may be chosen, such as a bar, a
ratchet or other similar mechanism. Any protrusion configuration
which extends outwardly from the treadmill 12 may be utilized. In
one embodiment, the protrusion means 78, 84 may extend about 1/4
inch to about 1 1/2 inches outwardly past the second end 18 of the
treadmill 12.
[0099] Still referring to FIGS. 3-8, the first indicator 80 may
comprise indicia 90 and an indication member 92. The indication
member 92 may be operatively connected to a first end 69A of the
rear roller axle 69 and may be adapted to move relative to the
indicia 90, as shown. In one embodiment of the present invention,
the indicia 90 may be an alpha-numeric scale. In another embodiment
of the present invention, the indicia 90 may be digital and could
include an LCD display. The indication member 92 may comprise a
substantially horizontal base 94 and an upwardly extending portion
96 attached thereto. A horizontal pointer 98 may be attached to the
upwardly extending portion 96. The horizontal pointer 98 is adapted
to move proximate the indicia 90 (the alpha-numeric scale, for
example) as the protrusion means 78 is moved. The second indicator
86 may be similarly designed. As shown in FIG. 5, each of the
rollers 50, 62 has an axle 60, 69, and each axle 60, 69 has first
ends and second ends 60A, 60B, 69A 69B. The axle 69 of the rear
roller has a pair of holes 71, 71 defined in the first and second
ends 69A, 69B. In one embodiment the holes 71, 71 are threaded. The
first rod 76 and the second rod 82 pass through the holes 71, 71
defined in the rear roller axle 69. A U-shaped bracket 75 (shown in
FIGS. 5 and 8) may be attached to the first side rail 20 (shown in
FIG. 3) and may have a pair of holes 77a, 77b (shown in FIG. 5 and
referenced in FIG. 8). The first rod 76 of the first belt tension
mechanism 72 extends through the hole 77a, through the hole 71 in
axle 69 (near the first end 64 of the rear roller 62) and then
through the hole 77b, as shown. In one embodiment, the first rod 76
has a first portion with a first diameter D1 and a second portion
with a diameter D2, wherein D2 is less than D1. The U-shaped
bracket 75 may define a cavity 91. The axle 69 can thus move along
the axis of the first rod 76 (in a longitudinal direction with
respect to the treadmill 12) within the cavity 91 in order to
adjust belt tension. Further, the portion of the rod 76 having
diameter D1 may be threaded to engage the threaded holes 71 of the
rear axle 69. It should be understood that the second rod 82 of the
second belt tension mechanism 74 is similarly constructed and
operated.
[0100] Operation of the belt tension mechanisms 72, 74 will now be
described. Upon detection of slack in the belt 34, the user turns
the first protrusion means 78. This moves the first end 64 of the
rear roller 62 away from the first end 52 of the front roller.
Next, the operator turns the second protrusion means 84. This moves
the second end 66 of the rear roller 62 away from the second end 54
of the front roller 50. The user reads the first visual indicator
80 and compares it with the reading of the second visual indicator
86. This ensures that the first end 64 and the second end 66 of the
rear roller 62 are substantially equal distance from the first end
52 and the second end 54 respectively of the front roller 50. If
the first and second visual indictors 80, 86 have the same reading,
the belt 24 is being pulled in tension evenly across its width.
However, if the first and second visual indicators 80, 86 are
different, the first and/or second protrusion means 78, 84 may be
again rotated until the indication means the visual first and
second visual indicators 80, 86 have the same reading.
[0101] With reference now to FIGS. 5 and 9-14, another feature of
the present invention is described. As previously stated, the
treadmill frame 14 has a first side rail 20 and second side rail 22
extending longitudinally between the first end 16 and the second
end 18 of the treadmill 12. In one embodiment of the present
invention, the first side rail 20 has a space 148 defined therein,
which is adapted to provide access for maintenance. On occasion,
the inner surface 26 of the belt 24 should be cleaned and
lubricated to decrease the amount of friction between the top
surface 36 of the deck 34 and the inner surface 26 of the top run
30 belt 24. This reduces undo wear of the treadmill belt 24.
[0102] In the embodiment of the present invention shown in FIGS.
9-14, an elongated strip 150 may be inserted into the space 148 of
the first side rail 20. The elongated strip 150 may have a first
end 152 and a second end 154. The second end 154 may be inserted
between the deck 34 and the belt 24 in order to spread lubricant
between the deck 34 and the belt 24. It is also contemplated in
another embodiment of the present invention that the second side
rail 22 may also have a similar space 148 defined therein. In one
embodiment of the present invention, the elongated strip 150 has a
length greater than or equal to the width of the belt 24. It is
also contemplated that the motor 40 move the belt 24 while the
elongated strip 150 is disposed between the belt 24 and the deck
34. The rotation of the belt 24 enables distribution of the
lubricant.
[0103] The space 148 may be any size chosen in accordance with
engineering judgment. The space defined in the side rails 20, 22 of
the frame 14 may take any form chosen in accordance with sound
engineering judgment, including, but not limited to a notch, a
hole, or a groove. This alleviates the need for pulling and
twisting the belt 24 in order to place lubricant under the belt 24.
However, it is also contemplated that the side rails 20, 24 may be
configured such that the space 148 is located between the top of
either (or both) side rails 20, 22 and the deck 34. In one
embodiment, the space 148 has a width W substantially the same size
as the width of the strip 150 to therefore receive the strip 150
yet limit the motion of the strip 150 to the transverse direction,
shown by arrow A. In another embodiment of the present invention,
the width W of the space 148 is large enough to receive the
elongated strip 150 so that the strip can move in transverse
direction A as well as the longitudinal direction, shown by arrow
B. This space width W impacts the speed of lubricating the belt
24.
[0104] In order to use this feature of the present invention, the
elongated strip 150 of the treadmill 12 as described herein is
provided. The elongated strip 150 is inserted into the space 148.
The strip 150 is thus positioned between the deck 34 and the belt
24. The user then distributes the lubricant. When positioning the
elongated strip 150 between the deck 34 and the belt 24, the
elongated strip 150 may be disposed between the inner surface 26 of
the top run 30 of the belt 24 and the top surface 36 of the deck
34. Alternatively, the space 148 may be positioned lower on the
rail 20 and thus the elongated strip 150 may be disposed between
the bottom surface 38 of the deck 34 and inner surface 26 of the
bottom run 32 of the belt 24. As explained above, depending upon
the size of the space 148, the elongated strip maybe moved
transversely (arrow A) and/or longitudinally (arrow B). As
previously described, the motor 40 may rotate one of the rollers
50, 62 to rotate the belt 24. As such, the step of distributing
lubricant may further include distribution of the lubricant by
rotating the belt 24 while the motor 40 is operating.
[0105] With reference now to FIGS. 18 and 19, another embodiment of
the present invention is shown. A wiper assembly 156 is provided
and is operatively connected to the treadmill 12. The wiper
assembly 156 is adapted to selectively contact the inner surface 26
of belt 24 to remove debris therefrom and/or to spread lubricant
thereon. The wiper assembly 156 may include a wiper blade 158
operatively connected to an elongated member 160. The wiper blade
158 may be selectively positionable between a first contact
position where the wiper blade 158 contacts the inner surface 26 of
the belt 24 and a second no-contact position where the wiper blade
158 does not contact the inner surface 26 of the belt 24. The
mechanism used to adjust the wiper blade 158 between the first and
second positions can be any chosen with sound engineering judgment.
In one embodiment, one or more springs (such as torsion springs)
may be used to bias the wiper blade 158 into the second non-contact
position. When desired, the wiper blade 158 can then be placed into
the first contact position by turning or rotating a handle 162
connected to the elongated member 160 and thereby overcome the
biasing force of the spring(s). In another embodiment, the wiper
blade 158 may simply be adjusted vertically between the first and
second positions. With this embodiment no rotational movement and
no springs are required. It should be noted that it is contemplated
to use a permanent wiper blade 158 and, alternatively, to use
replaceable wiper blades 158.
[0106] The preferred embodiments have been described, hereinabove.
It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the above
methods may incorporate changes and modifications without departing
from the general scope of this invention. It is intended to include
all such modifications and alterations in so far as they come
within the scope of the appended claims or the equivalents
thereof.
[0107] Having thus described the invention, it is now claimed:
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