CA2531271C - Method of controlling running status of treadmill - Google Patents
Method of controlling running status of treadmill Download PDFInfo
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- CA2531271C CA2531271C CA2531271A CA2531271A CA2531271C CA 2531271 C CA2531271 C CA 2531271C CA 2531271 A CA2531271 A CA 2531271A CA 2531271 A CA2531271 A CA 2531271A CA 2531271 C CA2531271 C CA 2531271C
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- motor
- condition
- running
- treadmill
- loaded
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- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 title claims abstract description 19
- 238000011068 loading method Methods 0.000 claims description 30
- 230000005540 biological transmission Effects 0.000 claims description 6
- 230000007257 malfunction Effects 0.000 claims description 5
- 230000007423 decrease Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000010586 diagram Methods 0.000 description 1
Classifications
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B22/00—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements
- A63B22/02—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements with movable endless bands, e.g. treadmills
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B22/00—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements
- A63B22/02—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements with movable endless bands, e.g. treadmills
- A63B22/0235—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements with movable endless bands, e.g. treadmills driven by a motor
- A63B22/0242—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements with movable endless bands, e.g. treadmills driven by a motor with speed variation
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B22/00—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements
- A63B22/02—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements with movable endless bands, e.g. treadmills
- A63B22/0235—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements with movable endless bands, e.g. treadmills driven by a motor
- A63B22/0242—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements with movable endless bands, e.g. treadmills driven by a motor with speed variation
- A63B22/025—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements with movable endless bands, e.g. treadmills driven by a motor with speed variation electrically, e.g. D.C. motors with variable speed control
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
- A61H2201/00—Characteristics of apparatus not provided for in the preceding codes
- A61H2201/01—Constructive details
- A61H2201/0173—Means for preventing injuries
- A61H2201/0176—By stopping operation
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2220/00—Measuring of physical parameters relating to sporting activity
- A63B2220/50—Force related parameters
- A63B2220/51—Force
Landscapes
- Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Cardiology (AREA)
- Vascular Medicine (AREA)
- General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Physical Education & Sports Medicine (AREA)
- Rehabilitation Tools (AREA)
- Combined Controls Of Internal Combustion Engines (AREA)
- Automatic Cycles, And Cycles In General (AREA)
- Control Of Electric Motors In General (AREA)
- Control Of Conveyors (AREA)
- Auxiliary Drives, Propulsion Controls, And Safety Devices (AREA)
Abstract
A method of the present invention provides detecting of a motor used for driving the belt of a treadmill to determine whether the treadmill is in an idle running condition or a loaded running condition. The idle running condition indicates that nobody is on the treadmill. The motor may be maintained at a designated running speed. The motor may be stopped after the expiry of a predetermined time or by an input to a control panel of the treadmill. If the motor is in the loaded running condition, a further step of the method involves determining whether it is in a continuous loaded condition or an intermittent loaded condition. The intermittent loaded condition indicates that a user is running on the treadmill. The motor may be maintained at a designated running speed. The motor may be stopped after the expiry of a predetermined time or by an input to the control panel of the treadmill. The continuous loaded condition indicates that the user has stopped running, but is standing on the treadmill or the belt is jammed. In such a case, the motor is stopped.
Description
METHOD OF CONTROLLING RUNNING STATUS OF TREADMILL
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates generally to a treadmill, and more particularly to a method of controlling the running status of a treadmill.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates generally to a treadmill, and more particularly to a method of controlling the running status of a treadmill.
2. Description of the Related Art A conventional electrical treadmill has a motor to drive a belt, on which a user can run. The user also can adjust the speed of the belt by controlling the motor, such that the user can choose a suitable condition to exercise on the treadmill.
For the safety of the user, the conventional electrical treadmill is provided with a safety apparatus to detect the speed of motor. When the speed of the motor is lower than a predetermined value, which may indicate that the belt is jammed, the safety apparatus will stop the motor automatically for the safety of user.
In the situation of a heavier user running on the belt of the treadmill at a lower running speed, or at the moment a user steps onto the belt, the speed of the motor is lowered because of the sudden greater loading. For such a situation, the safety apparatus may result in a false alarm and stop the motor immediately.
In a conventional treadmill, a feedback control system is provided to overcome the drawback described above.
Such a feedback control system has a sensor to detect the voltage and current of a treadmill motor and the feedback control system controls the speed of motor according to the detected voltage and current. For example, in the case of a heavier user running on the belt, if he/she is running faster, which increases the loading of the motor, the sensor will detect the increase and increase the voltage and current supplied to the motor to increase the speed or torque of the motor that would approach the speed of the belt to the actual condition. For an opposite condition, the safety apparatus decreases the voltage and current supplied to the motor to lower the speed or torque of the motor.
If the belt is jammed by extremities, a shoelace or clothes of the user, which may also increase the loading of the motor, the safety apparatus increases the voltage and.
current supplied to the motor after it detects that condition so as to maintain movement of the belt. However, this would make it difficult for the user to get off or dislodge themselves from the treadmill, and he/she might fall down and get injured.
If the user gets off the treadmill, the safety apparatus detects the loading of the motor is lower and decreases the voltage and current supplied to the motor. In this condition, the belt keeps running with nobody on it.
This may be problematic because, for example if the treadmill has not been turned off, and a child steps on it, the child may get injured.
In addition, if the treadmill is shown at an exhibition, for example to display the device to consumers, and no one stands on the belt, the safety apparatus will restrict the belt to running at a lower speed. This might result in a person mistakenly assuming that the treadmill can only run at a lower speed.
STJNMARY OF THE INVENTION
An objective of some embodiments of the present invention is to provide a method of controlling a running status of a treadmill, which involves a sensor detecting whether a motor is in an idle running condition or a loaded running condition. The idle running condition indicates that nobody is on the treadmill. The motor may be maintained at a designated running speed. The motor may be stopped after the expiry of a predetermined time or by an input to a control panel of the treadmill. If the motor is in the loaded running condition, a further step of the method involves determining whether it is in a continuous loaded condition or an intermittent loaded condition. The intermittent loaded condition indicates that a user is running on the treadmill. The motor may be maintained at a designated running speed. The motor may be stopped after the expiry of a predetermined time or by an input to the control panel of the treadmill. The continuous loaded condition indicates that the user has stopped running, but is standing on the treadmill or the belt is jammed. In such a case, the motor is stopped. Some embodiments of the present invention enable the treadmill to be exhibited at demonstrations and also be safely stopped when in use or following use by a user.
According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of controlling an automated treadmill, the treadmill comprising a microprocessor, a power supply, a control panel, a motor, at least one sensor, a belt and a transmission device coupled to the motor for driving the belt, the method comprising the steps of:
operating the control panel to turn on the power supply;
placing each of the microprocessor, the motor and the at least one sensor, respectively, to a standby condition after the power is turned on; providing at least one input to the control panel; determining a running status of the motor comprising detecting whether the motor is running or not;
wherein if the motor is not running, providing a malfunction alarm; and if the motor is running; determining whether the motor is in an idle running condition or a loaded running condition; A) wherein if the motor is in the idle running condition, entering an idle running mode, the idle running mode comprising: i) sensing the motor continuously; ii) controlling the motor until a predetermined time has expired or an input to the control panel indicates that the motor should be stopped; and iii) stopping the motor; iv) turning the motor to a standby condition after the motor has been stopped; and B) if the motor is in the loaded running condition, entering a loaded running mode, the loaded running mode comprising: i) sensing the motor continuously;
and ii) determining whether the motor is in a continuous loaded condition or an intermittent loaded condition; iii) wherein if the motor is in the continuous loaded condition;
a) stopping the motor to avoid an accident; and b) turning the motor to the standby condition when the motor is stopped; and iv) if the motor is in the intermittent loaded condition: a) detecting the motor continuously; b) controlling the running of the motor until: a predetermined time has expired; the intermittent loading is sensed to have stopped; or an input to the control panel indicates that the motor should be stopped; c) stopping the motor; and d) turning the motor to the standby condition when the motor is stopped.
According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an automated treadmill, the treadmill comprising a microprocessor, a power supply, a control panel, a motor, at least one sensor, a belt and a transmission device coupled to the motor for driving the belt, the treadmill configured to: receive a signal from the control panel to turn on the power supply; place each of the microprocessor, the motor and the at least one sensor, respectively, to a standby condition after the power is turned on; receive at least one further input to the control panel; determine a running status of the motor comprising detecting whether the motor is running or not; wherein if the motor is not running, provide a malfunction alarm; and if the motor is running; determine whether the motor is in an idle running condition or a loaded running condition; A) wherein if the motor is in the idle running condition: i) sense the motor continuously; ii) control the motor until a predetermined time has expired or an input to the control panel indicates that the motor should be stopped; and iii) stop the motor; iv) turn the motor to a standby condition after the motor has been stopped; and B) if the motor is in the loaded running condition: i) sense the motor continuously; and ii) determine whether the motor is in a continuous loaded condition or an intermittent loaded condition; iii) wherein if the motor is in the continuous loaded condition; a) stop the motor; and b) turn the motor to the standby condition when the motor is stopped; and iv) if the motor is in the intermittent loaded condition: a) sense the motor continuously; b) control the running of the motor until a predetermined time has expired, the intermittent loading is sensed to have stopped, or an input to the control panel indicates that the motor should be stopped; c) stop the motor; and d) turn the motor to the standby condition when the motor is stopped.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an embodiment of the present invention; and FIG. 2 is a flow chart describing an example of a method according to an embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
An example of a feedback system for use with an automated treadmill will now be described with respect to FIG. 1. The treadmill of an embodiment of the present invention has a microprocessor 11, a power supply 12, a control panel 13, a motor 14 and at least one sensor 15.
The automated treadmill also includes a belt (not shown) on which a user walks or runs and a transmission device 16 used to drive the belt.
The power supply 12 is coupled to the control panel 13, the microprocessor 11, the at least one sensor 15 and the motor 14. The control panel 13 is also coupled to the microprocessor 11. The microprocessor 11 is coupled to the motor 14. The at least one sensor 15 is coupled to the motor 14. The motor 14 is coupled to the transmission device 16 used to drive the belt.
In operation, the control panel 13 is responsive to inputs from a user. For example, a power button (not shown) on the control panel 13 would allow the user to turn on the treadmill by providing power from the power supply 12 to the various other components of the treadmill such as the microprocessor 11, the motor 14 and the at least one sensor 15. The at least one sensor 15 is used to monitor the motor 14, as will be described in further detail below. The microprocessor 11, powered by the power supply 12, receives inputs provided to the control panel 13 and provides signals to the motor 14, for example to turn the motor 14 on or off.
The microprocessor is further adapted to receive signals from the at least one sensor 15 to control the motor 14.
For the safety of the user, the conventional electrical treadmill is provided with a safety apparatus to detect the speed of motor. When the speed of the motor is lower than a predetermined value, which may indicate that the belt is jammed, the safety apparatus will stop the motor automatically for the safety of user.
In the situation of a heavier user running on the belt of the treadmill at a lower running speed, or at the moment a user steps onto the belt, the speed of the motor is lowered because of the sudden greater loading. For such a situation, the safety apparatus may result in a false alarm and stop the motor immediately.
In a conventional treadmill, a feedback control system is provided to overcome the drawback described above.
Such a feedback control system has a sensor to detect the voltage and current of a treadmill motor and the feedback control system controls the speed of motor according to the detected voltage and current. For example, in the case of a heavier user running on the belt, if he/she is running faster, which increases the loading of the motor, the sensor will detect the increase and increase the voltage and current supplied to the motor to increase the speed or torque of the motor that would approach the speed of the belt to the actual condition. For an opposite condition, the safety apparatus decreases the voltage and current supplied to the motor to lower the speed or torque of the motor.
If the belt is jammed by extremities, a shoelace or clothes of the user, which may also increase the loading of the motor, the safety apparatus increases the voltage and.
current supplied to the motor after it detects that condition so as to maintain movement of the belt. However, this would make it difficult for the user to get off or dislodge themselves from the treadmill, and he/she might fall down and get injured.
If the user gets off the treadmill, the safety apparatus detects the loading of the motor is lower and decreases the voltage and current supplied to the motor. In this condition, the belt keeps running with nobody on it.
This may be problematic because, for example if the treadmill has not been turned off, and a child steps on it, the child may get injured.
In addition, if the treadmill is shown at an exhibition, for example to display the device to consumers, and no one stands on the belt, the safety apparatus will restrict the belt to running at a lower speed. This might result in a person mistakenly assuming that the treadmill can only run at a lower speed.
STJNMARY OF THE INVENTION
An objective of some embodiments of the present invention is to provide a method of controlling a running status of a treadmill, which involves a sensor detecting whether a motor is in an idle running condition or a loaded running condition. The idle running condition indicates that nobody is on the treadmill. The motor may be maintained at a designated running speed. The motor may be stopped after the expiry of a predetermined time or by an input to a control panel of the treadmill. If the motor is in the loaded running condition, a further step of the method involves determining whether it is in a continuous loaded condition or an intermittent loaded condition. The intermittent loaded condition indicates that a user is running on the treadmill. The motor may be maintained at a designated running speed. The motor may be stopped after the expiry of a predetermined time or by an input to the control panel of the treadmill. The continuous loaded condition indicates that the user has stopped running, but is standing on the treadmill or the belt is jammed. In such a case, the motor is stopped. Some embodiments of the present invention enable the treadmill to be exhibited at demonstrations and also be safely stopped when in use or following use by a user.
According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of controlling an automated treadmill, the treadmill comprising a microprocessor, a power supply, a control panel, a motor, at least one sensor, a belt and a transmission device coupled to the motor for driving the belt, the method comprising the steps of:
operating the control panel to turn on the power supply;
placing each of the microprocessor, the motor and the at least one sensor, respectively, to a standby condition after the power is turned on; providing at least one input to the control panel; determining a running status of the motor comprising detecting whether the motor is running or not;
wherein if the motor is not running, providing a malfunction alarm; and if the motor is running; determining whether the motor is in an idle running condition or a loaded running condition; A) wherein if the motor is in the idle running condition, entering an idle running mode, the idle running mode comprising: i) sensing the motor continuously; ii) controlling the motor until a predetermined time has expired or an input to the control panel indicates that the motor should be stopped; and iii) stopping the motor; iv) turning the motor to a standby condition after the motor has been stopped; and B) if the motor is in the loaded running condition, entering a loaded running mode, the loaded running mode comprising: i) sensing the motor continuously;
and ii) determining whether the motor is in a continuous loaded condition or an intermittent loaded condition; iii) wherein if the motor is in the continuous loaded condition;
a) stopping the motor to avoid an accident; and b) turning the motor to the standby condition when the motor is stopped; and iv) if the motor is in the intermittent loaded condition: a) detecting the motor continuously; b) controlling the running of the motor until: a predetermined time has expired; the intermittent loading is sensed to have stopped; or an input to the control panel indicates that the motor should be stopped; c) stopping the motor; and d) turning the motor to the standby condition when the motor is stopped.
According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an automated treadmill, the treadmill comprising a microprocessor, a power supply, a control panel, a motor, at least one sensor, a belt and a transmission device coupled to the motor for driving the belt, the treadmill configured to: receive a signal from the control panel to turn on the power supply; place each of the microprocessor, the motor and the at least one sensor, respectively, to a standby condition after the power is turned on; receive at least one further input to the control panel; determine a running status of the motor comprising detecting whether the motor is running or not; wherein if the motor is not running, provide a malfunction alarm; and if the motor is running; determine whether the motor is in an idle running condition or a loaded running condition; A) wherein if the motor is in the idle running condition: i) sense the motor continuously; ii) control the motor until a predetermined time has expired or an input to the control panel indicates that the motor should be stopped; and iii) stop the motor; iv) turn the motor to a standby condition after the motor has been stopped; and B) if the motor is in the loaded running condition: i) sense the motor continuously; and ii) determine whether the motor is in a continuous loaded condition or an intermittent loaded condition; iii) wherein if the motor is in the continuous loaded condition; a) stop the motor; and b) turn the motor to the standby condition when the motor is stopped; and iv) if the motor is in the intermittent loaded condition: a) sense the motor continuously; b) control the running of the motor until a predetermined time has expired, the intermittent loading is sensed to have stopped, or an input to the control panel indicates that the motor should be stopped; c) stop the motor; and d) turn the motor to the standby condition when the motor is stopped.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an embodiment of the present invention; and FIG. 2 is a flow chart describing an example of a method according to an embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
An example of a feedback system for use with an automated treadmill will now be described with respect to FIG. 1. The treadmill of an embodiment of the present invention has a microprocessor 11, a power supply 12, a control panel 13, a motor 14 and at least one sensor 15.
The automated treadmill also includes a belt (not shown) on which a user walks or runs and a transmission device 16 used to drive the belt.
The power supply 12 is coupled to the control panel 13, the microprocessor 11, the at least one sensor 15 and the motor 14. The control panel 13 is also coupled to the microprocessor 11. The microprocessor 11 is coupled to the motor 14. The at least one sensor 15 is coupled to the motor 14. The motor 14 is coupled to the transmission device 16 used to drive the belt.
In operation, the control panel 13 is responsive to inputs from a user. For example, a power button (not shown) on the control panel 13 would allow the user to turn on the treadmill by providing power from the power supply 12 to the various other components of the treadmill such as the microprocessor 11, the motor 14 and the at least one sensor 15. The at least one sensor 15 is used to monitor the motor 14, as will be described in further detail below. The microprocessor 11, powered by the power supply 12, receives inputs provided to the control panel 13 and provides signals to the motor 14, for example to turn the motor 14 on or off.
The microprocessor is further adapted to receive signals from the at least one sensor 15 to control the motor 14.
An example of a method of controlling an automated treadmill will now be discussed with reference to FIG. 2.
A first step of the method involves turning on the power 2-1. The power supply is turned on via the control panel 13.
A second step 2-2 involves placing several of the components in a standby mode. The microprocessor 11, the motor 14 and the sensor 15 are each turned to standby condition after the power is turned on.
A third step 2-3 involves providing an input 2-3 to the control panel 13. The input is passed along to the microprocessor 11. An example of an input is an input to start the belt moving so that the user can start running.
A fourth step 2-4 involves determining a running status of the motor 14. The sensor 15 senses the motor 14 for determination of whether the motor is running or not.
If the motor 14 is not running (no path `N'), the microprocessor 11 determines that there has been a malfunction 2-5. If the motor is detected to be running (yes path `Y'), the method advances to step 2-6.
Step 2-6 involves determining the running condition of the motor. The sensor 15 detects whether the motor 14 is in an idle running condition or a loaded running condition. A variation of voltage and/or current of the motor 14 is detected by the sensor 15 to determine if the motor 14 is in the idle running condition or the loaded running condition. If the motor 14 is in the idle running condition, the microprocessor 11 enters an idle running mode 2-7, if the motor 14 is in the loaded running condition, the microprocessor 11 enters a loading running mode 2-11.
A first step of the method involves turning on the power 2-1. The power supply is turned on via the control panel 13.
A second step 2-2 involves placing several of the components in a standby mode. The microprocessor 11, the motor 14 and the sensor 15 are each turned to standby condition after the power is turned on.
A third step 2-3 involves providing an input 2-3 to the control panel 13. The input is passed along to the microprocessor 11. An example of an input is an input to start the belt moving so that the user can start running.
A fourth step 2-4 involves determining a running status of the motor 14. The sensor 15 senses the motor 14 for determination of whether the motor is running or not.
If the motor 14 is not running (no path `N'), the microprocessor 11 determines that there has been a malfunction 2-5. If the motor is detected to be running (yes path `Y'), the method advances to step 2-6.
Step 2-6 involves determining the running condition of the motor. The sensor 15 detects whether the motor 14 is in an idle running condition or a loaded running condition. A variation of voltage and/or current of the motor 14 is detected by the sensor 15 to determine if the motor 14 is in the idle running condition or the loaded running condition. If the motor 14 is in the idle running condition, the microprocessor 11 enters an idle running mode 2-7, if the motor 14 is in the loaded running condition, the microprocessor 11 enters a loading running mode 2-11.
The idle running mode 2-7 indicates that nobody is running on the treadmill. The sensor 15 continually senses 2-8 the motor 14 for determination of the motor's condition.
If the motor 14 is maintained in the idle running mode, the microprocessor stops the motor 14 after a predetermined time 2-9 or stops the motor 14 in response to an input 2-10 from the control panel 13. The motor 14 is turned to the standby condition 2-2 when it is off. If during the continuous sensing of the motor 14 at step 2-8, the motor 14 is determined to have a loading 2-6, which means a user stands and runs on it, the microprocessor 11 enters the loaded running mode 2-11.
The loaded running mode 2-11 indicates that the motor 14 has a load, for example that a user is standing and/or running on the treadmill. The sensor 15 senses the motor 14 continuously, and the microprocessor 11 determines whether it is a continuous loading condition 2-12 or an intermittent loading condition 2-13.
The continuous loading condition 2-12 indicates that the user has stopped running and is standing on the belt, or the belt is jammed, for example, by extremities, a shoelace or clothes of the user. In this case the microprocessor 11 stops 2-14 the motor 14 to avoid an accident. The motor is turned to the standby condition 2-2.
The intermittent loading condition 2-13 indicates that the user is running or walking on the belt and each step provides loading to the motor 14. The sensor 15 continually senses 2-15 the motor 14 for determination of the motor's condition. The motor 14 is monitored to determine if there is intermittent and repeated loading.
For example, for an intermittent and repeated loading the motor 14 is detected to have a first loading and subsequent loadings are detected with a predetermined spacing in time, such as one or two seconds later. If the intermittent loading occurs within a predetermined time, (yes path `Y' of decision step 2-17), the microprocessor 11 controls the motor 14 for the predetermined time. When the predetermined time expires, the microprocessor 11 stops 2-18 the motor 14.
Alternatively, the motor 14 is stopped 2-19 when the user operates the control panel 13 to stop the motor 14. If it is sensed that the intermittent loading stops (no path `N' of decision step 2-17) during the predetermined time, which indicates that there is nobody running or walking on the belt, the microprocessor 11 stops 2-16 the motor 14 and returns it to the standby condition 2-2.
In some embodiments of the present invention, the sensor 15 is also enabled to initially detect the running status of the motor 14 to determine whether the motor 14 is in the idle running condition or in the loaded running condition to determine whether the treadmill is in use or is being used for exhibition or demonstration. If the treadmill is in the latter condition, the treadmill is overseen by people and there is no safety issue. In such a case, the microprocessor 11 controls the motor 14 to run continuously according to the input supplied to the control panel to demonstrate the performance of the treadmill until a predetermined time expires or another input to the control.
panel is received.
If the treadmill is in the loaded running condition, the sensor 15 and the microprocessor 11 determine whether the motor 14 is in the continuous loading condition or in the intermittent loading condition. If the motor 14 is determined to be in the intermittent loading condition, which indicates that someone is running on the treadmill, the microprocessor 11 controls the running of the motor 14 according to a previous input provided by the control panel 13 until a predetermined time is up or the user stops the motor via the control panel 13.
If the motor 14 is determined to be in the continuous loading condition, which indicates that the user has stopped running or the belt is jammed, the microprocessor 11 stops the motor. In comparison with a conventional device in which a feedback control system increases the speed and torque of the motor when the motor is in the continuous loading condition, some embodiments of the present invention enable a safer operating condition for the user.
If the motor is in the intermittent loading condition, and there is no further loading to the motor in a predetermined time, which indicates the user has left the belt, the microprocessor 11 stops the motor 14 to avoid an accident.
In some embodiments, the methods of present invention not only determines whether the treadmill is operating in a demonstration condition-or an actual use condition, but also automatically stop the treadmill when the user leaves the treadmill. The methods of the present invention may also fully stop the treadmill when the belt is jammed to control the treadmill in both the demonstration condition and the actual use condition.
If the motor 14 is maintained in the idle running mode, the microprocessor stops the motor 14 after a predetermined time 2-9 or stops the motor 14 in response to an input 2-10 from the control panel 13. The motor 14 is turned to the standby condition 2-2 when it is off. If during the continuous sensing of the motor 14 at step 2-8, the motor 14 is determined to have a loading 2-6, which means a user stands and runs on it, the microprocessor 11 enters the loaded running mode 2-11.
The loaded running mode 2-11 indicates that the motor 14 has a load, for example that a user is standing and/or running on the treadmill. The sensor 15 senses the motor 14 continuously, and the microprocessor 11 determines whether it is a continuous loading condition 2-12 or an intermittent loading condition 2-13.
The continuous loading condition 2-12 indicates that the user has stopped running and is standing on the belt, or the belt is jammed, for example, by extremities, a shoelace or clothes of the user. In this case the microprocessor 11 stops 2-14 the motor 14 to avoid an accident. The motor is turned to the standby condition 2-2.
The intermittent loading condition 2-13 indicates that the user is running or walking on the belt and each step provides loading to the motor 14. The sensor 15 continually senses 2-15 the motor 14 for determination of the motor's condition. The motor 14 is monitored to determine if there is intermittent and repeated loading.
For example, for an intermittent and repeated loading the motor 14 is detected to have a first loading and subsequent loadings are detected with a predetermined spacing in time, such as one or two seconds later. If the intermittent loading occurs within a predetermined time, (yes path `Y' of decision step 2-17), the microprocessor 11 controls the motor 14 for the predetermined time. When the predetermined time expires, the microprocessor 11 stops 2-18 the motor 14.
Alternatively, the motor 14 is stopped 2-19 when the user operates the control panel 13 to stop the motor 14. If it is sensed that the intermittent loading stops (no path `N' of decision step 2-17) during the predetermined time, which indicates that there is nobody running or walking on the belt, the microprocessor 11 stops 2-16 the motor 14 and returns it to the standby condition 2-2.
In some embodiments of the present invention, the sensor 15 is also enabled to initially detect the running status of the motor 14 to determine whether the motor 14 is in the idle running condition or in the loaded running condition to determine whether the treadmill is in use or is being used for exhibition or demonstration. If the treadmill is in the latter condition, the treadmill is overseen by people and there is no safety issue. In such a case, the microprocessor 11 controls the motor 14 to run continuously according to the input supplied to the control panel to demonstrate the performance of the treadmill until a predetermined time expires or another input to the control.
panel is received.
If the treadmill is in the loaded running condition, the sensor 15 and the microprocessor 11 determine whether the motor 14 is in the continuous loading condition or in the intermittent loading condition. If the motor 14 is determined to be in the intermittent loading condition, which indicates that someone is running on the treadmill, the microprocessor 11 controls the running of the motor 14 according to a previous input provided by the control panel 13 until a predetermined time is up or the user stops the motor via the control panel 13.
If the motor 14 is determined to be in the continuous loading condition, which indicates that the user has stopped running or the belt is jammed, the microprocessor 11 stops the motor. In comparison with a conventional device in which a feedback control system increases the speed and torque of the motor when the motor is in the continuous loading condition, some embodiments of the present invention enable a safer operating condition for the user.
If the motor is in the intermittent loading condition, and there is no further loading to the motor in a predetermined time, which indicates the user has left the belt, the microprocessor 11 stops the motor 14 to avoid an accident.
In some embodiments, the methods of present invention not only determines whether the treadmill is operating in a demonstration condition-or an actual use condition, but also automatically stop the treadmill when the user leaves the treadmill. The methods of the present invention may also fully stop the treadmill when the belt is jammed to control the treadmill in both the demonstration condition and the actual use condition.
Claims (6)
1. A method of controlling an automated treadmill, the treadmill comprising a microprocessor, a power supply, a control panel, a motor, at least one sensor, a belt and a transmission device coupled to the motor for driving the belt, the method comprising the steps of:
operating the control panel to turn on the power supply;
placing each of the microprocessor, the motor and the at least one sensor, respectively, to a standby condition after the power is turned on;
providing at least one input to the control panel;
determining a running status of the motor comprising detecting whether the motor is running or not;
wherein if the motor is not running, providing a malfunction alarm; and if the motor is running;
determining whether the motor is in an idle running condition or a loaded running condition;
A) wherein if the motor is in the idle running condition, entering an idle running mode, the idle running mode comprising:
i) sensing the motor continuously;
ii) controlling the motor until a predetermined time has expired or an input to the control panel indicates that the motor should be stopped; and iii) stopping the motor;
iv) turning the motor to a standby condition after the motor has been stopped; and B) if the motor is in the loaded running condition, entering a loaded running mode, the loaded running mode comprising:
i) sensing the motor continuously; and ii) determining whether the motor is in a continuous loaded condition or an intermittent loaded condition;
iii) wherein if the motor is in the continuous loaded condition;
a) stopping the motor to avoid an accident;
and b) turning the motor to the standby condition when the motor is stopped; and iv) if the motor is in the intermittent loaded condition:
a) detecting the motor continuously;
b) controlling the running of the motor until: a predetermined time has expired; the intermittent loading is sensed to have stopped; or an input to the control panel indicates that the motor should be stopped;
c) stopping the motor; and d) turning the motor to the standby condition when the motor is stopped.
operating the control panel to turn on the power supply;
placing each of the microprocessor, the motor and the at least one sensor, respectively, to a standby condition after the power is turned on;
providing at least one input to the control panel;
determining a running status of the motor comprising detecting whether the motor is running or not;
wherein if the motor is not running, providing a malfunction alarm; and if the motor is running;
determining whether the motor is in an idle running condition or a loaded running condition;
A) wherein if the motor is in the idle running condition, entering an idle running mode, the idle running mode comprising:
i) sensing the motor continuously;
ii) controlling the motor until a predetermined time has expired or an input to the control panel indicates that the motor should be stopped; and iii) stopping the motor;
iv) turning the motor to a standby condition after the motor has been stopped; and B) if the motor is in the loaded running condition, entering a loaded running mode, the loaded running mode comprising:
i) sensing the motor continuously; and ii) determining whether the motor is in a continuous loaded condition or an intermittent loaded condition;
iii) wherein if the motor is in the continuous loaded condition;
a) stopping the motor to avoid an accident;
and b) turning the motor to the standby condition when the motor is stopped; and iv) if the motor is in the intermittent loaded condition:
a) detecting the motor continuously;
b) controlling the running of the motor until: a predetermined time has expired; the intermittent loading is sensed to have stopped; or an input to the control panel indicates that the motor should be stopped;
c) stopping the motor; and d) turning the motor to the standby condition when the motor is stopped.
2. The method as defined in claim 1, wherein detecting whether the motor is running or not comprises:
sensing a variation of a current of the motor to determine whether the motor is in the idle running condition or the loaded running condition.
sensing a variation of a current of the motor to determine whether the motor is in the idle running condition or the loaded running condition.
3. The method as defined in claim 1, wherein detecting whether the motor is running or not comprises:
sensing a variation of a voltage of the motor to determine whether the motor is in the idle running condition or the loaded running condition.
sensing a variation of a voltage of the motor to determine whether the motor is in the idle running condition or the loaded running condition.
4. An automated treadmill, the treadmill comprising a microprocessor, a power supply, a control panel, a motor, at least one sensor, a belt and a transmission device coupled to the motor for driving the belt, the treadmill configured to:
receive a signal from the control panel to turn on the power supply;
place each of the microprocessor, the motor and the at least one sensor, respectively, to a standby condition after the power is turned on;
receive at least one further input to the control panel;
determine a running status of the motor comprising detecting whether the motor is running or not;
wherein if the motor is not running, provide a malfunction alarm; and if the motor is running;
determine whether the motor is in an idle running condition or a loaded running condition;
A) wherein if the motor is in the idle running condition:
i) sense the motor continuously;
ii) control the motor until a predetermined time has expired or an input to the control panel indicates that the motor should be stopped; and iii) stop the motor;
iv) turn the motor to a standby condition after the motor has been stopped; and B) if the motor is in the loaded running condition:
i) sense the motor continuously; and ii) determine whether the motor is in a continuous loaded condition or an intermittent loaded condition;
iii) wherein if the motor is in the continuous loaded condition;
a) stop the motor; and b) turn the motor to the standby condition when the motor is stopped; and iv) if the motor is in the intermittent loaded condition:
a) sense the motor continuously;
b) control the running of the motor until a predetermined time has expired, the intermittent loading is sensed to have stopped, or an input to the control panel indicates that the motor should be stopped;
c) stop the motor; and d) turn the motor to the standby condition when the motor is stopped.
receive a signal from the control panel to turn on the power supply;
place each of the microprocessor, the motor and the at least one sensor, respectively, to a standby condition after the power is turned on;
receive at least one further input to the control panel;
determine a running status of the motor comprising detecting whether the motor is running or not;
wherein if the motor is not running, provide a malfunction alarm; and if the motor is running;
determine whether the motor is in an idle running condition or a loaded running condition;
A) wherein if the motor is in the idle running condition:
i) sense the motor continuously;
ii) control the motor until a predetermined time has expired or an input to the control panel indicates that the motor should be stopped; and iii) stop the motor;
iv) turn the motor to a standby condition after the motor has been stopped; and B) if the motor is in the loaded running condition:
i) sense the motor continuously; and ii) determine whether the motor is in a continuous loaded condition or an intermittent loaded condition;
iii) wherein if the motor is in the continuous loaded condition;
a) stop the motor; and b) turn the motor to the standby condition when the motor is stopped; and iv) if the motor is in the intermittent loaded condition:
a) sense the motor continuously;
b) control the running of the motor until a predetermined time has expired, the intermittent loading is sensed to have stopped, or an input to the control panel indicates that the motor should be stopped;
c) stop the motor; and d) turn the motor to the standby condition when the motor is stopped.
5. The treadmill of claim 4, wherein the treadmill being configured to detect whether the motor is running or not comprises:
the treadmill configured to sense a variation of a current of the motor to determine whether the motor is in the idle running condition or the loading running condition.
the treadmill configured to sense a variation of a current of the motor to determine whether the motor is in the idle running condition or the loading running condition.
6. The treadmill of claim 4, wherein the treadmill being configured to detect whether the motor is running or not comprises:
the treadmill configured to sense a variation of a voltage of the motor to determine whether the motor is in the idle running condition or the loading running condition.
the treadmill configured to sense a variation of a voltage of the motor to determine whether the motor is in the idle running condition or the loading running condition.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| TW093140669A TWI243699B (en) | 2004-12-24 | 2004-12-24 | Operation control method of treadmill |
| TW093140669 | 2004-12-24 |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2531271A1 CA2531271A1 (en) | 2006-06-24 |
| CA2531271C true CA2531271C (en) | 2010-03-23 |
Family
ID=35840785
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2531271A Expired - Fee Related CA2531271C (en) | 2004-12-24 | 2005-12-21 | Method of controlling running status of treadmill |
Country Status (5)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2531271C (en) |
| DE (1) | DE102005061299B4 (en) |
| GB (1) | GB2421806B (en) |
| IT (1) | ITTO20050896A1 (en) |
| TW (1) | TWI243699B (en) |
Families Citing this family (3)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EP1884263A1 (en) * | 2006-08-01 | 2008-02-06 | Strength Master Fitness Tech Co., Ltd. | Method and apparatus of counting steps for treadmill |
| DE202018104636U1 (en) * | 2018-08-13 | 2018-08-20 | Zebris Medical Gmbh | Treadmill arrangement and motion status detection |
| CN109200531A (en) * | 2018-09-07 | 2019-01-15 | 刘志鹏 | A kind of treadmill |
Family Cites Families (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US5368532A (en) * | 1993-02-03 | 1994-11-29 | Diversified Products Corporation | Treadmill having an automatic speed control system |
| US6783482B2 (en) * | 2000-08-30 | 2004-08-31 | Brunswick Corporation | Treadmill control system |
-
2004
- 2004-12-24 TW TW093140669A patent/TWI243699B/en not_active IP Right Cessation
-
2005
- 2005-12-21 CA CA2531271A patent/CA2531271C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2005-12-21 GB GB0525908A patent/GB2421806B/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2005-12-21 DE DE102005061299A patent/DE102005061299B4/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2005-12-22 IT IT000896A patent/ITTO20050896A1/en unknown
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| GB2421806B (en) | 2007-02-14 |
| ITTO20050896A1 (en) | 2006-06-25 |
| DE102005061299B4 (en) | 2010-09-02 |
| GB0525908D0 (en) | 2006-02-01 |
| TW200621330A (en) | 2006-07-01 |
| TWI243699B (en) | 2005-11-21 |
| DE102005061299A1 (en) | 2006-07-20 |
| GB2421806A (en) | 2006-07-05 |
| CA2531271A1 (en) | 2006-06-24 |
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