U.S. patent application number 14/858620 was filed with the patent office on 2016-04-07 for treadmill with removable handles and relative assembly method.
The applicant listed for this patent is TECHNOGYM S.P.A.. Invention is credited to DAVIDE GATTI.
Application Number | 20160096064 14/858620 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 52232241 |
Filed Date | 2016-04-07 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160096064 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
GATTI; DAVIDE |
April 7, 2016 |
TREADMILL WITH REMOVABLE HANDLES AND RELATIVE ASSEMBLY METHOD
Abstract
Described is a treadmill (1) comprising a frame (2) having
uprights (3) for supporting a control panel (5) equipped with a
user interface; a belt (4) trained around rotatable rollers,
defining a treadable surface (4a); a motor connected to at least
one of the rollers for moving the belt (4); at least one handle (7)
connected to a corresponding upright (3) and having a grip portion
(7a) which can be accessed by the user, wherein the treadmill (1)
comprises a shape coupling between the handle (7) and the upright
(3) and a lock/release mechanism (16) for manually coupling and
uncoupling the handle (7) with respect to the upright (3).
Inventors: |
GATTI; DAVIDE; (FORLI,
IT) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
TECHNOGYM S.P.A. |
GAMBETTOLA (FORLI CESENA) |
|
IT |
|
|
Family ID: |
52232241 |
Appl. No.: |
14/858620 |
Filed: |
September 18, 2015 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
482/54 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 22/02 20130101;
A63B 69/0057 20130101; A63B 2210/50 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A63B 22/02 20060101
A63B022/02; A63B 23/04 20060101 A63B023/04 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Oct 3, 2014 |
IT |
BO2014A000542 |
Claims
1. A treadmill comprising: a frame equipped with uprights; a belt
looped on rotary rollers, forming a treadable surface; at least one
handle connected to a corresponding upright and comprising a grip
portion accessible to the user; a shape coupling between the handle
and the upright and a lock and release mechanism for manually
coupling and uncoupling the handle relative to the upright.
2. The treadmill according to claim 1, wherein said shape coupling
comprises a taper coupling with interference fit.
3. The treadmill according to claim 1, wherein said shape coupling
comprises a slot-in coupling between a tooth and a corresponding
slot.
4. The treadmill according to claim 1, wherein the shape coupling
comprises a guide forming a contact surface for the handle.
5. The treadmill according to claim 4, wherein said contact surface
is facing towards a treadmill supporting surface and is angled
relative to said surface about an axis perpendicular to a line
along which the upright extends and to a line of insertion and
removal of the handle in/from the upright.
6. The treadmill according to claim 1, wherein the shape coupling
comprises a reference profile, comprising at least one straight
portion defining a first axis of rotation about which the handle is
rotatable to produce the shape coupling.
7. The treadmill according to claim 6, wherein said straight
portion is formed by the upright at an upper end of the shape
coupling, distal from a treadmill supporting surface.
8. The treadmill according to claim 1, wherein the lock and release
mechanism comprises a hook connected to the handle and a pin
connected to the frame.
9. The treadmill according to claim 8, wherein said hook is
connected to a movable lever, which can be operated by the user,
pivoting at the handle and rotatable about a second axis of
rotation for moving said hook towards or away from the pin.
10. The treadmill according to claim 9, wherein the lock and
release mechanism comprises a first elastic element operating in
conjunction with the lever and the hook to keep them in a
predetermined position relative to one another in the absence of
external forces.
11. The treadmill according to claim 10, wherein the lock and
release mechanism comprises a second elastic element designed to:
oppose the rotation of the lever in a releasing direction until a
predetermined angular position of the lever has been reached,
beyond which said second elastic element promotes the rotation of
the lever in the releasing direction; define at least one angular
position of stable equilibrium for said lever; oppose the rotation
of the lever in a locking direction until a predetermined angular
position of the lever has been reached, beyond which said second
elastic element promotes the rotation of the lever in the releasing
direction.
12. The treadmill according to claim 8, wherein the pin of the lock
and release mechanism is connected to the upright in a lower zone
of the shape coupling, proximal to a treadmill supporting
surface.
13. The treadmill according to claim 1, wherein the upright forms a
shaped hollow seat for housing a corresponding coupling portion of
the handle by means of said shape coupling.
14. The treadmill (1) according to claim 13, wherein the upright is
oriented along a longitudinal axis and the shaped hollow seat (8)
is elongated in said longitudinal axis.
15. The treadmill according to claim 1, wherein the grip portion of
the handle is "U"-shaped.
16. The treadmill (1) according to claim 1, wherein the grip
portion (7a) of the handle has a first and a second end, and
wherein the treadmill (1) comprises a coupling portion (7b)
configured for connecting the handle (7) to the upright (3) and
having an elongate shape, wherein the coupling portion (7b) of the
handle (7) connects said first and second end of the grip portion
(7a).
17. The treadmill according to claim 1, wherein the treadmill is
foldable by rotation of the uprights relative to the treadable
surface.
18. A method for assembling a treadmill, comprising a connection of
at least one handle to a corresponding upright of a frame of the
treadmill, wherein said connection is removable and comprising the
following steps: coupling of the handle to the upright by means of
a shape coupling between the handle and the upright; activation of
a lock and release mechanism for stably fixing the handle to the
upright.
19. The method according to claim 18, wherein said coupling step
comprises the following steps: positioning one end of the handle on
a reference profile made on the top of a shape coupling portion
formed by the upright; rotating the handle about a first axis of
rotation defined by the reference profile for producing a shape
coupling.
20. The method according to claim 18, comprising a step of rotating
the upright relative to the treadable surface, for moving the
treadmill into an open operating position, from a closed folded
position.
Description
[0001] This invention relates to a treadmill with removable handles
and a relative assembly method.
[0002] The invention is applicable in particular to the fitness
sector and for fitness training equipment, which may be located,
for example, in a gym or in a home.
[0003] The invention addresses the technical field of exercise
machines; in particular, the invention addresses the technical
field of treadmills, that is, the exercise machines designed to
simulate walking and running, aerobic activities which can be
performed at various intensities. The machines allow the user to
walk run on the spot.
[0004] The treadmills allow the user to walk or run in gradual and
controlled fashion, to perform efficient and safe cardiovascular
training. There may be various aims for the training, for example,
weight loss or toning of the muscles of the lower limbs. The
treadmill can also be applied for exercise for articular and
cardiovascular rehabilitation.
[0005] The range of users for whom it is intended is therefore
large and diversified. Individuals who practice sport
competitively, those who wish to achieve and maintain a good level
of fitness and persons in need of rehabilitation to improve their
mobility can obtain benefits from the use of treadmills.
[0006] In addition to gyms, there is a wide and varied range of
environments in which treadmills can be used, for example in
private homes, hotels, spas and all spaces dedicated to
training.
[0007] Typically, the prior art treadmills comprise a frame
comprising a base and at least one upright.
[0008] The base of the frame constitutes the support for the belt.
The belt consists of a belt trained around at least two rotatable
drive rollers (that is, pulleys) coupled to the base. A motor,
located in a compartment of the base, controls the operation of at
least one of the rollers for moving the bell. The belt rotated by
the drive rollers defines a walking or running surface (that is, a
treadable surface). The treadable surface is substantially parallel
to the plane defined by the floor.
[0009] The drive rollers, connected to the driving axis by means of
a transmission belt, transfer the motion of the motor to the belt.
Moreover, the majority of treadmills are provided with a shock
absorbing system which is able to absorb the micro-injuries which
running can generate, especially when performed on hard ground
whilst wearing unsuitable footwear. The prior art treadmills also
comprise mechanisms for tilting the base, generally driven by an
actuator, which are configured to vary the slope of the belt, by
tilting the walking surface relative to the plane defined by the
floor.
[0010] The prior art treadmills usually comprise one or more
uprights coupled to the frame and elongate in a substantially
vertical direction to support a control panel which can be reached
by the user in an upright position. The control panel may have keys
which can be reached by the user during use of the exercise
machine. Typically, the keys allow the immediate control of the
exercise parameters (for example, speed and slope). The control
panel usually comprises a display (possibly touch-screen type)
which allows the user to display the exercise data in real time.
The control panel for the touch-screen display) has a variable
number of keys based on the quantity of data and the number of
programs held by the specific exercise machine. On the majority of
treadmills it is possible to program exercises with aims of
distance, time, heart rate and calories, at different speeds or
slopes which can be set up by the user both during programming and
during training. Moreover, the majority of treadmills comprise a
memory with preset exercise programs. Many models offer the
possibility of setting up new programs, with a number depending on
the capacity of the memory and a software program configured to
process data coming from one or more sensors with which the
exercise machine is equipped. The adjustment of the speed and slope
allows the effort exerted to be modulated, adapting it to the
individual capabilities and the progress achieved thanks to the
exercising.
[0011] The prior art treadmills are usually equipped with a braking
system which slows down the speed of the belt gradually, even in
the case of sudden switching off.
[0012] The treadmills generally comprise at least one supporting
structure for the upper limbs of the user (that is, handles),
designed to help the user maintain balance.
[0013] At the sides of the walking or running surface, the belt
usually comprises a pair of side footrests. Typically, before
starting the exercise, the user steps onto the belt, placing a foot
on each side footrest and, facing towards the control panel, grips
a handle with one hand and sets a program on the control panel with
the other hand.
[0014] In order to have a break without stopping the treadmill or
without operating the controls, the user can rest on the handles
and move the feet to the side footrests.
[0015] It may be useful for the user to rest the hands on the
handles even during the exercise; for example, unskilled users and
users with serious equilibrium problems can exercise more safely by
walking with the hands resting on the handles. In treadmills
configured for varying the slope of the belt, the walking or
running on a slope, which tends to unbalance the user, may require
the use of handles as a balancing aid.
[0016] It is sometimes the case, especially with unskilled users,
that a feeling of veering to the side is felt at the end of the
exercise; in these cases, the role played by the handles may be
fundamental for the safety of the user. The shape of the handles is
designed for the safety of the user without obstructing movements.
Moreover, the design of the handles must balance functional
aspects, linked to the correct use of the exercise machine and the
safety, with appearance and design aspects.
[0017] Patent document U.S. Pat. No. 6,045,490 shows a treadmill
with handles coupled to the uprights of the frame. The coupling is
such as to make the handles movable, by rotation, between an
extended position, where they can be easily reached by the user,
and a withdrawn position in which the space available to the user
during use of the exercise machine is greater.
[0018] The prior art treadmills have different features depending
on the environment for which they have been designed. More
specifically, for home applications in which the space available
may be limited, the prior art comprises reclosable (that is,
foldable) treadmills, designed to adopt a configuration which
reduces as much as possible the overall dimensions (that is, the
folded configuration) when the exercise machine is not used. The
frame of the reclosable treadmills comprises an opening and/or
closing mechanism, which allows the plane of the belt to be moved,
typically by rotation, towards the plane in which the directions of
extension of the uprights lie.
[0019] Patent document U.S. Pat. No. 8,182,399 shows a reclosable
treadmill wherein the handles are pivoted to the frame to rotate in
such a way as to adopt an extended position during use, and a
withdrawn position wherein, once the treadmill is reclosed, the
direction along which they extend is substantially parallel to the
plane defined by the treadable surface.
[0020] Patent document US20130237381 shows a reclosable treadmill
wherein the handles have an elongate shape in one direction and are
coupled rigidly to the control panel. The control panel is coupled
to the uprights in such a way as to rotate during the closing of
the treadmill. When the treadmill is in the closed position, the
treadable surface, the directions in which the uprights are
elongate and the directions in which the handles are elongate are
contained in substantially parallel planes.
[0021] Other solutions regarding trademills provided with handles
are described in patent documents US2007/066448A1, U.S. Pat. No.
6,761,669B1 e U.S. Pat. No. 5,676,624A. However, these treadmills
have certain limitations.
[0022] The hinge coupling which allows the rotation of the handles
is subject to forces which limit the duration and reliability and,
also, do not guarantee the absence of residual clearance. Moreover,
the reduction of the overall dimensions by rotating the handle is
applicable only to the handles having a shape elongate in a
direction.
[0023] The curved handles, which are preferably since they improve
the ergonomics of the exercise machine and the safety for the user,
are typically coupled rigidly to the frame, through an attaching
system (for example, by screws) which requires the intervention of
a skilled technician to carry out the maintenance or the
replacement of the component.
[0024] The aim of this invention is to provide a treadmill which is
particularly simple and easy to assemble and reduces the dimensions
during storage or transport.
[0025] A further aim of this invention is to provide a treadmill
which is particularly comfortable and safe for the user.
[0026] Another aim of this invention is to provide a treadmill
which is aesthetically very pleasing.
[0027] These aims are fully achieved by the treadmill according to
this invention as characterised in the appended claims.
[0028] More specifically, the treadmill according to this invention
comprises a frame having uprights for supporting a control panel, a
belt treadable by the user and handles connected to the uprights to
provide the user with a surface on which to rest or grip.
[0029] According to this invention, the handles are connected to
the uprights in a removable fashion by rapid lock release elements
which can be operated manually, so that coupling or uncoupling of
the handles from the uprights can be performed manually, without
the aid of any tool, and in a particularly rapid and easy
manner.
[0030] The treadmill is configured so that it can rest on a
horizontal supporting surface, for example a floor. The uprights
are inclined respect to this horizontal plane, for example they are
vertical or substantially vertically (but they might also have
different inclinations); in any case, the handles are elongate
along respective longitudinal directions.
[0031] According to one aspect of this description, the treadmill
is foldable, that is, it comprises parts movably connected to each
other (for example by hinges) for being moved between an open
position, wherein the treadmill is designed to perform its fitness
exercise functions, and a closed position, folded, wherein the
treadmill occupies a particularly reduced size, so as to be packed,
stored or simply placed in an area of a home or of a gym. In light
of this, preferably, the uprights rotate relative to a portion of
the frame designed to support the belt.
[0032] However, it should be noted that this invention not be
considered limited to foldable treadmills.
[0033] Preferably, the handles have a U-shaped grip portion. This
favours the safety and ease of use by the user.
[0034] According to this description, the treadmill comprises a
shape coupling between handle and upright.
[0035] Moreover, the treadmill comprises a lock/release mechanism
movable between (at least) two configurations, one for locking,
wherein the handle is fixed stably to the respective upright, and
one for releasing, wherein the handle may be manually removed from
the upright.
[0036] As regards the shape coupling between the upright and the
handle, the following should be noted.
[0037] Preferably, the upright has a shaped hollow seat to house a
corresponding projecting portion of the handle. This is the
solution according to the embodiment illustrated; however, it
should also be noted that, in a variant embodiment not illustrated,
the male and female role is exchanged between handle and upright,
in the shape coupling (this circumstance also applies in
consideration of the further features described below regarding the
shape coupling).
[0038] In an embodiment, this shape coupling defines a
interlocking. In one embodiment, the shape coupling is extended
along a straight portion of the upright; the shape coupling
occupies an area of the upright and a corresponding area of the
handle elongated along a longitudinal axis (the axis in which the
upright is oriented).
[0039] The shape coupling preferably comprises a taper coupling by
interference, made, for example, by a wedge which can be inserted
in a seat.
[0040] Thus, the taper coupling defines a transversal axis of
moving towards (that is, insertion) and away (that is, extraction)
of the wedge from the respective seat, that is, of the handle from
the upright.
[0041] This transversal direction is substantially parallel to the
sliding direction of the belt of the treadmill, when it is parallel
to the horizontal plane for supporting the treadmill.
[0042] In the example illustrated, the handle has a wedge which can
be inserted in a seat defined by the upright. Preferably, the wedge
has tapered lateral faces; preferably, the tapered lateral faces of
the wedge define a plurality of protrusions alternated with
grooves, elongated in the transversal direction of the wedge
towards and away from the respective seat.
[0043] The purpose of the tapered coupling is to eliminate the
clearances of the handle relative to the upright in a direction
perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the upright and
relative to the transversal direction of inserting and
removing.
[0044] Preferably, the shape coupling comprises a slot-in coupling
between a tooth and a corresponding slot.
[0045] In the example illustrated, the tooth is integral with the
handle and defined by the upright.
[0046] The purpose of the slot-in coupling, by inserting teeth in
the corresponding slot, is to generate a robust and safe constraint
against accidental movement of the handle along the transversal
direction, that is, in the direction of extraction from the
upright.
[0047] Preferably, the slot constitutes a hole oriented along the
longitudinal axis; the tooth protrudes downwards from a ledge
defined by the handle and, when the handle is coupled to the
upright, protrudes longitudinally downwards and engages the
slot.
[0048] Preferably, the shape coupling comprises (a guide defining)
a contact surface defining a constraint to a longitudinal movement
of the handle relative to the upright.
[0049] In the example illustrated, the contact surface (of the
guide) is integral with the upright and acting in conjunction with
a corresponding surface defined by the handle.
[0050] Preferably, the contact surface faces downwards, that is,
towards the supporting surface of the treadmill; preferably, the
contact surface is inclined relative to the supporting surface of
the treadmill about an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal
direction (along which the upright is elongate) and to the
transversal direction (for inserting and removing the handle of the
upright).
[0051] The purpose of the contact surface is to eliminate the
clearances of the handle relative to the upright in the
longitudinal direction in which the upright extends.
[0052] Also, preferably, the upright comprises a reference profile,
comprising at least one rectilinear portion defining a first axis
of rotation about which the handle is rotatable to produce the
shape coupling.
[0053] Preferably, the rectilinear portion is formed by the upright
at an upper end of the shape coupling, distal from a treadmill
supporting surface.
[0054] Preferably, the rectilinear portion is oriented along an
axis perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (along which the
upright is elongate) and to the transversal direction (for
inserting and removing the handle of the upright). This rectilinear
portion defines a contact zone for a corresponding portion of the
handle, shaped, for example, in the form of a step.
[0055] The purpose of this rectilinear portion is to define with
precision and uniquely an initial position wherein the handle must
be located relative to the upright, for then coupling the handle to
the upright.
[0056] In effect, the initial position is a position wherein a
predetermined contact surface of the handle (at an upper end of the
upright) is in contact with the rectilinear portion of the upright,
and wherein the opposite end of the handle is offset from the
upright; so the handle is located in a position rotated relative to
a position for coupling to the upright, rotated about the axis
defined by the rectilinear portion of the upright.
[0057] This facilitates and guides the movement of handle relative
to the upright in the locking direction, favouring the correct
execution of the shape coupling.
[0058] As regards the lock/release mechanism, attention is drawn to
the following.
[0059] Preferably, the lock/release mechanism is configured to
adopt two stable equilibrium positions and to switch from one to
the other by means of snap-in connection.
[0060] Preferably, the lock/release mechanism comprises a hook
connected to the handle and a pin connected to the frame.
[0061] Preferably, the hook is connected to a movable lever,
accessible to the user. Preferably, the lever is pivoted on the
handle and rotates about a second axis of rotation to move the hook
towards or away from the pin.
[0062] Preferably, the lock and release mechanism comprises a first
elastic element operating in conjunction with the lever and the
hook to keep them in a predetermined position relative to one
another in the absence of external forces.
[0063] Preferably, the lock/release mechanism also comprises a
second elastic element configured to oppose the rotation of the
lever in a locking direction, until reaching a predetermined
angular position of the lever, beyond which the elastic element
promotes the rotation of the lever in the releasing direction.
[0064] Moreover, preferably, the second elastic element is
configured to define at least one angular position of stable
equilibrium for the lever.
[0065] Moreover, preferably, the second elastic element is
configured to oppose the rotation of the lever in a locking
direction until a predetermined angular position of the lever has
been reached, beyond which the elastic element promotes the
rotation of the lever in the releasing direction.
[0066] Preferably, the pin of the lock/release mechanism is
connected to the upright in a lower area of the shape coupling,
proximal to a supporting surface of the treadmill; this increases
the robustness and the safety of the handle, since the force
applied by the user on the handle directed downwards does not bear
directly on the lock release mechanism but only on the contact
surface.
[0067] This invention also provides a method for assembling a
treadmill, comprising a connection of at least one handle to a
corresponding upright of a frame of the treadmill.
[0068] More specifically, this connection of the handle (that is,
of the handles, because preferably there are two or more) to the
upright is removable. According to this invention, this connection
of the handle to the upright comprises the following steps: [0069]
coupling of the handle to the upright by means of a shape coupling
between the handle and the upright; [0070] activation of a lock and
release mechanism for fixing the handle to the upright in a stable
and removable fashion.
[0071] More specifically, the fastening comprises a step for the
mutual preparatory positioning of the handle relative to the
upright.
[0072] In light of this, the method preferably comprises the
following steps, prior to the activation of the lock mechanism:
[0073] positioning one end of the handle on a reference profile
made on the top of a shape coupling portion formed by the upright;
[0074] rotating the handle about a first axis of rotation defined
by the reference profile for producing a shape coupling.
[0075] According to one aspect of this description, the treadmill
is of the foldable or re-foldable type and the assembly method
comprises a step of rotating the upright relative to a belt, to
bring the treadmill to an open working position, from a closed
position folded.
[0076] Preferably, in the positioning step, it is an upper end of
the handle, distal from the supporting surface of the treadmill,
which rests on the reference profile of the upright.
[0077] Moreover, preferably, the rotation of the handle is carried
out about an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of
extension of the upright and to a direction of sliding of the belt
of the treadmill, when the belt is positioned horizontally,
parallel to the supporting surface of the treadmill. Preferably,
this rotation also comprises, in particular in a relative final
part, a pushing of the handle against the upright along a
transversal direction, parallel to the sliding direction of the
belt of the treadmill, when the belt is positioned horizontally,
parallel to the supporting surface of the treadmill; this is to
make a coupling with interference between a portion of the handle
and a corresponding portion of the upright.
[0078] According to another aspect of the invention, it should be
noted that this description also concerns an exercise machine
generally speaking having a frame equipped with uprights and
handles designed to be fixed to the uprights, wherein the handles
are fastened in such a way as to be removable manually from the
uprights, according to one or more of the features described in
this invention.
[0079] Moreover, the invention also relates to a handle, having a
grip portion (designed to be gripped by the user) and a portion for
coupling to the upright of a frame of an exercise machine (in
particular a treadmill).
[0080] The coupling portion of the handle is configured for
defining a shape coupling according to one or more of the features
described in this invention, in conjunction with a corresponding
coupling portion defined by the upright.
[0081] Preferably, the coupling portion of the handle comprises one
or more of the following features (for a detail of which reference
should be made to the rest of this description), in short; a wedge
which can be inserted in a seat of the handle by interference; a
tooth of the handle which can be inserted in a slot of the upright
(and orientated longitudinally); a contact surface designed to
interact by interference with a corresponding surface of the
upright, to form a constraint to a longitudinal movement of the
handle coupled to the upright; a movable hook for coupling to a the
pin of the handle.
[0082] For this reason, this invention allows a handle to be fitted
to and removed from a treadmill (and in more general terms, to and
from an upright of an exercise machine) quickly and easily,
guaranteeing at the same time the robustness of the handle
fitted.
[0083] This applies for all types of handles, but in particular for
U-shaped handles which are particularly ergonomic and safe.
[0084] This solution has various advantages.
[0085] Firstly, the solution according to this invention simplifies
and speeds up the assembly operation of the handle, even allowing
an unskilled person to quickly fit the handle; this is particularly
useful for exercise machines intended for use at home; moreover,
this facilitates a replacement of handles over time (because they
are worn or for reasons of appearance). Moreover, the solution
according to this invention is particularly attractive in
appearance, since screws or other fastening means cannot be seen
from the outside, except for the lock release mechanism; in effect,
the shape coupling, when the handle is fixed to the upright, is
completely enclosed in a space formed inside the upright and the
handle.
[0086] The solution according to this invention is also
particularly reliable and safe, because the coupling between handle
and upright allows vibrations and clearances which might disturb
the person during use of handle to be eliminated.
[0087] This and other features of the invention will become more
apparent from the following detailed description of a preferred,
non-limiting example embodiment of it, with reference to the
accompanying drawings, in which:
[0088] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one particular embodiment of
the treadmill according to this invention;
[0089] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a detail of the treadmill
according to this invention in which a handle is separated from the
frame;
[0090] FIGS. 3 and 4 show two different perspective views of the
handle of the treadmill of FIG. 1;
[0091] FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of the handle of FIG. 3
wherein the lock/release mechanism is shown in an exploded
view;
[0092] FIG. 6 shows a side view in cross section of the handle of
FIG. 3;
[0093] FIG. 7 shows a side view in cross section of the handle of
FIG. 3 attached to the frame of the treadmill of FIG. 1;
[0094] FIG. 8 shows a detail of the lock/release mechanism of the
treadmill of FIG. 1, hooked to the frame;
[0095] FIGS. 9 and 10 show the lock/release mechanism according to
this description, in an exploded view and a perspective view,
respectively;
[0096] FIG. 11 shows the lock/release mechanism of FIG. 9 in a
first configuration;
[0097] FIG. 12 shows the lock/release mechanism of FIG. 9 in a
second configuration;
[0098] FIG. 13 shows the lock/release mechanism of FIG. 9 in a
third configuration;
[0099] FIG. 14 shows the lock/release mechanism of FIG. 9 in a
fourth configuration;
[0100] FIG. 15 shows the lock/release mechanism of FIG. 9 in a
fifth configuration;
[0101] With reference to the accompanying drawings, the numeral 1
denotes a treadmill, that is to say, an exercise machine designed
to simulate walking and running, which allows the user to walk/run
on the spot.
[0102] A treadmill 1 comprises a frame 2 having at least one
upright 3; preferably, the frame 2 comprises two uprights 3.
[0103] The treadmill 1 comprises a belt 4 trained around at least
two rotatable rollers (not shown in the drawings, of per se known
type), which defines a treadable surface 4a, that is to say, a
walking or running surface. Preferably, the treadable surface 4a is
parallel to a supporting surface of the treadmill 1.
[0104] Preferably (but not necessarily), the treadmill 1 comprises
a motor (not illustrated in the drawings, of per se known type),
connected to at least one of the rollers and to move the belt
4.
[0105] In one embodiment, the treadmill 1 comprises an actuator
(not illustrated in the drawings, of per se known type) associated
with the frame to angle the treadable surface 4a with respect to
the supporting surface of the treadmill 1.
[0106] Preferably (but not necessarily), the treadmill 1 comprises
a control panel 5. The control panel 5 is coupled with frame 2;
preferably, the control panel 5 is supported by the uprights 3 at a
predetermined height from the supporting surface of the treadmill
1. Preferably, the control panel 5 is provided with a user
interface. Preferably, the control panel 5 comprises one or more
control means, to allow the user to control parameters relative to
the operation of the treadmill 1. Preferably, the control panel 5
comprises a display 6 for displaying, by the user, parameters of
the treadmill 1 and of the workout. Preferably, the display 6 is of
the touchscreen type.
[0107] The treadmill 1 has at least one handle 7 (preferably at
least two handles 7), designed as an aid for the balance of the
user. The handle 7 (or, each handle 7) has a grip portion 7a which
can be grasped by the user. In an embodiment, the grip portion 7a
is U-shaped; this guarantees a particularly comfortable and firm
grip. In use, each handle is stably connected to a respective
upright 3.
[0108] The handles are removably connected to the respective
uprights 3, so that they can be easily attached and detached by the
user or by another person.
[0109] The handle 7 also has a coupling portion 7b, configured for
allowing a coupling of the handle 7 to the upright 2.
[0110] Preferably, the coupling portion 7b can be coupled to a
corresponding coupling portion of the upright 3, to define the
shape coupling.
[0111] Preferably, the upright 3 (that is, the coupling portion of
the upright 3) comprises a shaped hollow seat 8, which constitutes
a female portion in the shape coupling with the handle 7
(alternatively, the role of male and female in the shape coupling
can be reversed, between coupling portion of the handle 7 and of
the upright 3).
[0112] In the embodiment illustrated, the shaped hollow seat 8 is
made in the upright 3; the shaped hollow seat 8 is elongate in a
longitudinal direction (along which the upright 3 is elongate).
[0113] In use, when the treadmill 1 is resting on the ground, the
longitudinal direction is vertical or substantially vertically
(that is, perpendicular to the supporting surface of the
treadmill).
[0114] The coupling portion 7b of the handle 7 is also preferably
elongate in a direction; when the handle 7 is coupled with the
corresponding upright 3, the direction of extension of the coupling
portion 7b of the handle 7 is parallel to the direction in which
the shaped hollow seat 8 is also elongate. In an exemplary
embodiment, the grip portion 7a of the handle has at least a
segment positioned substantially cantilevered with respect to the
coupling portion 7b. In particular, in an exemplary embodiment, the
grip portion 7a of the handle has a stretch elongated (extending)
along the direction of movement of the treadmill (or a direction
substantially parallel to the ground, i.e. to a bearing plane of
the treadmill), while the coupling portion 7b is disposed in a
longitudinal direction, substantially perpendicular to said stretch
of the grip portion 7e.
[0115] Preferably, the coupling portion 7b has an elongated shape
(elongated in longitudinal direction) and has a first and a second
end; for example, the coupling portion 7b is straight and shaped as
a (rectilinear) segment.
[0116] In an exemplary embodiment, the gripping portion 7a of the
handle has a first and a second end facing in a same direction. For
example, such a gripping portion 7a is shaped as a "U" or "V".
[0117] Preferably, said first and second end of the gripping
portion 7a of the handle are connected (joined) to said first and
second ends of the coupling portion 7b, to form a ring (or triangle
or another shape having a closed perimeter); this ring preferably
has a straight portion (side), formed by the coupling portion
7b.
[0118] Preferably, the coupling portion 7b of the handle 7 connects
two ends of the grip portion 7a (especially if the grip portion 7a
is U-shaped). Preferably, the shape coupling comprises a slot-in
coupling 9, to prevent the movement of the handle 7 away from the
upright 3, in a direction parallel to the supporting surface of the
treadmill 1.
[0119] In an example embodiment, the upright 3 comprises a slot 9a;
the slot 9a is preferably formed in the shaped hollow seat 8; more
specifically, it is made on a protruding portion of the shaped
hollow seat 8. Moreover, the handle 7 comprises a tooth 9b which
can be inserted in the slot 9a for making the slot-in coupling
9.
[0120] Preferably, the slot-in coupling 9 is located in the upper
part of the shape coupling, that is, in the part of the upright 3
(and of the handle 7 coupled thereto) distal from the supporting
surface of the treadmill 1.
[0121] Moreover, preferably, the upright (that is, the shaped
hollow seal 8 of the upright) comprises a guide 10. The handle 7
(that is, the coupling portion 7b of the handle 7) has a
trapezoidal element 11. The guide 10 is configured to guide a
movement of the trapezoidal element 11. Preferably, the coupling
portion 7b of the handle 7 comprises two trapezoidal elements
11.
[0122] The contact surface between the guide 10 of the upright 3
and the trapezoidal element 11 (or the trapezoidal elements 11) of
the handle 7 forms a contact surface 12. Preferably, this contact
surface 12 forms part of the shape coupling, to prevent a movement
of the handle 7 away from the supporting surface of the treadmill
1, in the direction perpendicular to the supporting surface.
Preferably, the coupling between the guide 10 and the trapezoidal
element 11, defining the contact surface 12, is at a lower height
than the slot-in coupling 9 that is, it is relatively closer to a
supporting surface of the treadmill 1, when the handle 7 is
connected to the upright 3.
[0123] It should be noted that the couplings comprising the pin 9b
and the slot 9a, on the one hand, and the trapezoidal elements 11
and the guide 10, on the other hand, have the purpose of preventing
the movement of the handle in a direction perpendicular to the
supporting surface of the treadmill, in both directions; more
specifically, towards and away from the supporting surface of the
treadmill, respectively.
[0124] Preferably, the shape coupling comprises (also) a taper
coupling 13, to prevent a movement of the handle 7 away from the
upright 3 along a direction parallel to the supporting surface of
the treadmill 1 (preferably, the direction is perpendicular or
transversal to the movement direction of the belt 4 of the
treadmill 1).
[0125] In this context, preferably, the coupling portion 7b of the
handle 7 defines a wedge 14. The shaped hollow seat 8 of the
upright 3 has a portion shaped to match the wedge 14 of the handle,
to define the taper coupling 13.
[0126] Preferably, the wedge 14 has a cross section with a variable
width, that is, the wedge 14 is tapered, for coupling with
interference with the shaped hollow seat 8 of the upright 3.
Preferably, the wedge 14 has a trapezoidal cross section.
[0127] Preferably, the wedge 14 has grooved lateral faces 14a, to
improve the stability of the taper coupling 13. More specifically,
the lateral faces 14a of the wedge have a plurality of grooves
alternated with corresponding protrusions, oriented in the
direction of insertion and removal of the wedge 14 from the
corresponding coupling portion of the shaped hollow seat 8 of the
upright 3. In this way, the interference of the coupling is
concentrated in the protrusions. This guarantees a particularly
stable coupling, avoiding the risk of damaging the shaped hollow
seat 8.
[0128] Preferably, the taper coupling 13 is at a lower height (that
is, proximal to the supporting surface of the treadmill 1) relative
to the contact surface 12 (that is, relative to the guide 10 of the
upright 3).
[0129] Preferably, the shaped hollow seat 8 comprises, at one end
distal from the supporting surface of the treadmill 1, a reference
profile 15 which is configured for facilitating the user during
connection of the handle 7 to the upright 3 (of the frame 2) of the
treadmill 1. Preferably, the reference profile 15 comprises a
rectilinear portion defining a first axis of rotation A, located in
a plane parallel to the supporting surface of the treadmill 1.
[0130] In order to fasten the handle 7 to the upright 3 (thus
providing the shape coupling), the user positions a first end of
the handle 7 in contact with the reference profile 15, and rotates
the handle 7 about the first axis A in a first direction (of moving
the handle 7 towards the upright 3); in this way, the handle 7
rotates relative to the upright pivoting on the reference profile
15.
[0131] The rotation of the handle 7 relative to the upright 3
brings the coupling portion 7b of the handle 7 to be inserted into
the shaped hollow seat 8 of the upright 3, so that it forms the
shape coupling.
[0132] More specifically, the insertion of the coupling portion 7b
of the handle 7 into the shaped hollow seat 8 of the upright 3,
through the rotation, performs the following steps, in succession:
[0133] the tooth 9b (of the handle 7) couples in the slot 9a (of
the upright 3), forming the slot-in coupling 9; [0134] the
trapezoidal elements 11 (of the handle 7) are in contact with the
guide 10 (of the upright 3) to form the contact surface 12; [0135]
the wedge 14 (of the handle 7) inserted in the shaped hollow seat 8
(of the upright 3), to form the taper coupling 13.
[0136] It should be noted that the shape coupling thus, preferably,
comprises a plurality of complementary elements belonging to the
coupling portion 7b of the handle 7 and to the shaped hollow seat
8. It should also be noted that this particular embodiment allows
the handle 7, thanks to the shape coupling and the position of the
elements of which it is composed, to withstand without moving a
stress applied in a substantially vertical direction, in the
direction of approach to the belt 4.
[0137] The treadmill 1 also comprises a lock/release mechanism 16
removable manually. The lock/release mechanism 16 allows the user
to fix the handle 7 to the upright 3 (of the frame 2), to prevent
an accidental disconnecting of the handle 7 from the upright 3.
More specifically, the purpose of the lock/release 16 mechanism is
to prevent a force applied in the direction parallel to the upright
(in the direction away from the supporting surface of the treadmill
1) from causing an accidental rotation of the handle 7 about the
first axis of rotation A, in a (second) direction (opposite the
first direction), causing the uncoupling of the coupling portion 7b
from the shaped hollow seat 8.
[0138] Preferably, the lock/release mechanism 16 is connected to a
second end of the handle 7, proximal to the supporting surface of
the treadmill 1, when the handle 7 is coupled to the upright 3.
[0139] In an embodiment, the lock/release mechanism 16 comprises a
connecting plate 17, to connect the lock/release mechanism 16 to
the handle 7. Moreover, the lock/release 16 mechanism comprises a
lever 18 coupled to the connecting plate 17. The lever 18 is
coupled to the plate 17 so as to rotate about a second axis of
rotation B; the second axis of rotation B is oriented in such a way
that, when the handle 7 is coupled to the upright 3, the second
axis of rotation B is parallel to the supporting surface of the
treadmill 1 and perpendicular to the movement direction of the belt
4.
[0140] Preferably, the lock/release mechanism 16 comprises a hook
19 having a first and a second end. The first end of the hook 19 is
coupled to the lever 18 to define a rotation constraint. The hook
is rotatably coupled to the lever 18 so that it rotates about a
third axis of rotation C, parallel (substantially) to the second
axis of rotation B. The second end of the hook 19 is configured for
coupling with a pin 20 of the upright 3, positioned in the shaped
hollow seat 8. Preferably, the second end of the hook 19 forms a
slot. Preferably, the pin 20 has a shaped end, defining a portion
inclined towards the direction of movement of the hook 19, so as to
form an undercut for locking the hook 19, when the hook 19 is
connected to the pin 20.
[0141] The lock release mechanism 16 also comprises a first elastic
element 21 (for balancing). The first elastic element 21 is
interposed between the lever 18 and the hook 19. The first elastic
element 21 is preferably configured to define a predetermined
reciprocal position relative of the hook 19 with respect to the
lever 18, in the absence of external forces. Preferably, the first
elastic element 21 is a helical spring.
[0142] Preferably, the lock/release mechanism 16 also comprises a
second elastic element 22; preferably, the second elastic element
22 is connected to the handle 7. For example, the second elastic
element 22 is a leaf spring.
[0143] The second elastic element 22 is configured to interact with
a surface of the lever 18 defining a cam profile 18a. The lever 18
can rotate in a first direction (that is, a release direction) and
in a second direction (that is, a lock direction).
[0144] During the rotation in the release direction, the second
elastic element 22 does not interact with the lever 18 until
reaching a first predetermined angular position (illustrated in
FIG. 12), wherein the cam profile 18a enters into contact with the
second elastic element 22.
[0145] The second elastic element 22 generates a force which
opposes the rotation of the lever 18 in the release direction,
until reaching a predetermined angular position of the lever 18
(illustrated in FIG. 13). A further rotation of the lever 18
(facilitated by the second elastic element 22), beyond that angular
position, allows the lever 18 to reach a second position of its
stable equilibrium (FIG. 14).
[0146] To uncouple the hook 19 from the pin 20, the user must
therefore overcome the resistance of the second elastic element 22,
rotating further the lever 18 in the release direction. The
rotation of the lever 18 causes the movement, by roto-translation,
of the second end of the hook 19 towards the upright 3. It should
be noted that the roto-translation occurs thanks to the first
elastic element 21, which allows the relative position between the
hook 19 and the lever 18 to be maintained, allowing the second end
of the hook 19 to move in the direction away from the supporting
surface of the treadmill 1, and hence uncouple the hook 19 from the
pin 20. It should be noted that, preferably, a further rotation of
the lever 18 in the release direction, relative to the second
stable equilibrium position, causes the interaction between the cam
profile 18a and the second elastic element 22 (this situation is
illustrated in FIG. 15); the second elastic element 22 applies a
force which tends to bring the lever 18 to the stable equilibrium
position, in the absence of external forces.
[0147] Vice versa, during the rotation in the lock direction,
starting from the stable equilibrium position, the second elastic
element 22 interacts with the lever 18 obstructing the rotation,
until reaching a predetermined angular position, beyond which the
second elastic element 22 interacts with the profile of the cam
surface 18a, favouring the rotation in the lock direction.
* * * * *