TWI577417B - Two-way electric treadmill - Google Patents

Description

Two-way motorized treadmill

The present invention relates to sports equipment, and further relates to a "treadmill" (note: English is "treadmill", based on its overall function, it should be called "walking or treadmill", but the case is called "running" machine").

In the field of sports and fitness and medical rehabilitation, treadmills are a very common sports equipment, and whether it is for fitness or rehabilitation, all kinds of treadmills basically have a sports platform (commonly known as running platform), on the aforementioned sports platform. There is a circular belt body (commonly known as running belt) that can be recirculated for the athletes to walk or run on the belt body. In addition, in today's mainstream electric treadmills (Note: The following "treadmills" "All refers to the electric treadmill, no special emphasis", the drive device for driving the endless belt is usually located at the front end of the aforementioned motion platform, and a console mainly as a human-machine interface is provided above the front end of the motion platform. a control unit electrically connected to the driving device is disposed in the console, and the driving device can be controlled according to a preset program or a real-time command, so that the annular belt body is rotated around at a predetermined speed, and is provided for the corresponding speed of the athlete. Go slowly, go fast, jog or run. Generally speaking, when the treadmill is for sports, the motor in the driving device is operated in a fixed rotation direction (referred to as a positive rotation direction), and the driving annular belt body is driven in a predetermined direction (referred to as a forward direction). The cycle is repeated, even if the top surface of the endless belt slides from front to back, so that the athlete faces the front of the treadmill (equal to the front console) to simulate the forward walking or forward running movement.

On the other hand, walking backwards on a flat surface has multiple benefits such as less joint load, greater muscle activity, easier cushioning of the foot, training of muscles in different parts, and different nerves, as compared to normal forward walking. It is also thought that similar exercises can be performed on a treadmill to achieve the same effect. Some people use the irregular treadmill to achieve the purpose of retreating, that is, on the usual treadmill, the annular belt is rotated at a slower speed, and the athlete stands on the belt. But facing the rear of the treadmill (equal to the front console), because In this case, the top surface of the belt continues to slide forward from the rear side thereof, so that the athlete can perform the motion of simulating the backward walking in this state. In fact, some treadmills currently have a usage mode dedicated to the reversing motion (hereinafter referred to as "reverse motion mode"), in which the control unit controls the motor of the driving device to be opposite to the foregoing. The rotation direction of the positive rotation direction cyclically rotates in the direction opposite to the forward rotation direction of the driving annular belt body, and even if the top surface of the annular belt body slides from the rear end of the motion platform to the front end, thereby allowing the athlete to Keep moving forward in the direction of the treadmill to simulate a reverse walk.

Turning to the safety of the treadmill, it is known that when the exercise is simulated on the treadmill to move forward or forward, if the athlete is not physically fit or distracted, the walking or running speed does not keep up with the ring. With the sliding speed of the top surface of the body, the athlete will actually retreat relative to the motion platform, and once it retreats to the last end of the motion platform, it may slip or fall off the motion platform, or even trip down the running endless belt. An accident that causes damage in the body. In order to avoid the above accidents as much as possible, an emergency switch and/or a safety clip are generally arranged on the console of the treadmill. The emergency switch is provided for the active trigger of the athlete in an emergency situation. When the emergency switch is triggered, the foregoing The control unit controls the drive to stop driving the endless belt. The safety clip is used to clamp the front of the wearer's clothes, and a suitable length of rope is connected between the safety clip and the console. When the athlete retreats beyond a preset distance, the front end of the rope (for example, a bolt or When the magnet is off the console or a switch is pulled, the control unit controls the drive to stop driving the endless belt. In addition, in the known technology, the treadmill may also detect the front and rear positions of the athlete on the motion platform by means of infrared rays, ultrasonic waves, pedaling sensing, image recognition, etc., as long as the athlete is detected to retreat to the normal motion range. The preset warning zone will trigger the safety response mechanism of the control unit to control the ring belt to slow down or stop rotating.

Next, the safety when performing the reversing motion on the treadmill will be discussed. It is conceivable that when the top surface of the endless belt is slid forward from the rear of the athlete, if the speed of the backward movement of the athlete is lower than the sliding speed of the top surface of the annular belt, the athlete will be relative to the motion platform. Go forward in the direction it faces. In the aforementioned informal treadmill use mode, the athlete advances in the direction in which he faces, meaning that the athlete advances toward the rear end of the motion platform. At this time, because the athlete is facing the console, even the console is provided. There is also an emergency switch that can't be used. The result is probably that the athlete slips out or falls off the sports platform, and even falls or lies on the running loop belt, which is very dangerous. Although, if the treadmill has the aforementioned safety clip (this time changed to the clothes caught in the athlete) The back side) or any device that can detect the movement of the athlete into the warning zone at the back end of the motion platform may also achieve the purpose of stopping the operation of the endless belt at the right time and preventing the athlete from sliding out of the rear end of the platform, but after all, the athlete is moving through the entire movement. It is impossible to watch and operate the console at all, and it is not possible to properly grasp the grip or armrest of the treadmill (usually located in the front half of the machine), so it is difficult to safely and safely carry out and stop the reversing movement. In short, this kind of The use of informal treadmills is only a dangerous attempt by a few people and is not recommended.

On the other hand, for the aforementioned treadmill having the "reverse motion mode", since the top surface of the endless belt body slides from the rear end of the motion platform to the front end during the reverse movement, if the athlete is The speed of backward walking is lower than the sliding speed of the top surface of the annular belt, and the athlete will actually approach the front console. If it does not retreat in time, the body may hit the console and the footsteps are pushed forward of the annular belt ( For example, stepping on the driver cover at the front end of the motion platform, and thus tripping or falling on the running endless belt body and the like. Of course, the athlete can actively press the emergency switch when the user is in danger, so that the annular belt can be stopped urgently. (Note: The treadmill with "reverse motion mode" usually has an emergency switch, and the aforementioned safety clamp is used in this mode. There is no effect). However, sometimes the athlete may delay the timing of pressing the emergency switch due to self-confidence, or fail to press the emergency switch at the first time in a panic, so that the above accident still occurs. Especially as the reversing movement for rehabilitation purposes, because the athlete (rehabilitator) may be slower or less flexible, and can't be expected to press the emergency switch in time, it is usually necessary for someone to watch and keep alert. Once the athletes are too far ahead, they will control the deceleration or emergency stop.

It is a primary object of the present invention to provide an electric treadmill that can be selected to operate in a forward motion mode or in a reverse motion mode that allows the operator to simulate a forward walk or toward the front of the treadmill. In the front running motion, the reverse motion mode allows the athlete to simulate the backward walking movement toward the front of the treadmill; the aforementioned treadmill can provide higher security than the previous one when the exerciser performs the simulation of the backward walking movement. Because the athlete advances to the front of the normal range of motion, the possibility of accidents, or at least mitigates the possible damage; wherein the mechanism for safety in the reverse motion mode does not affect the normal motion mode Operation and use.

In order to achieve the foregoing objective, the electric treadmill provided by the present invention comprises a motion platform, a driving device, a detecting device and a control unit, wherein the motion platform has There is a body and an annular belt body which can be circulated around the frame body. A warning zone is preset above the movement platform, and the position of the warning zone is more forward than the center of the front and rear lengths of the moving surface; The driving device can drive the annular belt to circulate; the detecting device is configured to detect whether an athlete enters the warning zone; and the control unit can control the driving device to drive the driving device to pre-order the annular belt The steering and the predetermined speed cycle are rotated; the control unit has a reaction mechanism that can be enabled or disabled according to the condition, and the foregoing reaction mechanism refers to determining that the aforementioned athlete enters based on the detection of the detecting device. In the foregoing warning zone, the control unit controls the driving device to slow or stop the rotation of the annular belt; the electric treadmill may be selected to operate in a forward motion mode or in a reverse motion mode, in the foregoing forward motion. In the mode, the foregoing control unit controls the driving device to slide the top surface of the annular belt body from front to back, and disables the foregoing reaction. System; mode at the reverse movement, the control unit controls the driving means so that the top surface of the endless belt by the rear body to slide forward, and the reaction mechanism is enabled.

Thereby, when the athlete performs the simulated reverse walking movement in the reverse motion mode described above, the annular belt body will decelerate or stop urgently as long as it is detected that the vehicle enters the aforementioned warning zone in front of the normal motion range. To avoid accidents or mitigate the possible damage; on the other hand, when the athlete performs the motion of moving forward or running forward in the aforementioned forward motion mode, because all or part of the aforementioned warning zone may be located here. During the normal range of motion, or near the front end of the normal range of motion, the athlete enters a normal or common phenomenon, or at least not because the athlete moves at a slower speed than the rotational speed of the endless belt, so the endless belt The body does not need to slow down or stop urgently.

100‧‧‧ treadmill

110‧‧‧ sports platform

111‧‧‧ ‧ frame

112‧‧‧ front roller

113‧‧‧ Rear roller

114‧‧‧Circular body

115‧‧‧Top/Sports

116‧‧‧ Cover

120‧‧‧ drive

121‧‧‧Motor

122‧‧‧Small pulley

123‧‧‧Large pulley

124‧‧‧Drive belt

130‧‧‧ pillar

140‧‧‧Handrail

145‧‧‧ grip

150‧‧‧ console

151‧‧‧Input interface

152‧‧‧Display interface

160‧‧‧Emergency switch

172‧‧‧Safety clip

174‧‧‧ rope

181‧‧‧Infrared emitting elements

182‧‧‧Infrared emitting element

183‧‧‧Infrared receiving components

184‧‧‧Infrared receiving components

200‧‧‧Treadmill

210‧‧‧ sports platform

214‧‧‧Circular body

215‧‧‧Top/Sports

250‧‧‧ console

260‧‧‧Emergency switch

272‧‧‧Safety clip

280‧‧‧Supersonic Module

300‧‧‧Treadmill

310‧‧‧ sports platform

314‧‧‧Circular body

350‧‧‧ console

360‧‧‧Emergency switch

380‧‧‧ Ultrasonic Module

400‧‧‧ treadmill

410‧‧‧ sports platform

411‧‧‧ ‧ body

414‧‧‧Circular body

415‧‧‧Top/Sports

416‧‧‧Tie

450‧‧‧ console

460‧‧‧Emergency switch

481‧‧‧Infrared emitting elements

482‧‧‧Infrared emitting element

483‧‧‧Infrared receiving components

484‧‧‧Infrared receiving components

D1‧‧‧ 顺向方向

D2‧‧‧ reverse direction

IR‧‧‧Infrared

R1‧‧‧ is rotating

R2‧‧‧anti-rotation

S‧‧‧sports

US‧‧‧Supersonic

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figure 1 is a perspective view of a treadmill in accordance with a first preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 2 is a rear elevational view of the treadmill of the first preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 3 is a side elevational view of the treadmill of the first preferred embodiment of the present invention and illustrates the aforementioned treadmill operating in a forward motion mode.

Figure 4 is a side elevational view of the treadmill of the first preferred embodiment of the present invention and illustrates the foregoing treadmill operating in a reverse motion mode.

Figure 5 is a rear elevational view of a treadmill in accordance with a second preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 6 is a side elevational view of a treadmill in accordance with a second preferred embodiment of the present invention and illustrating the aforementioned treadmill operating in a reverse motion mode.

Figure 7 is a side elevational view of a treadmill in accordance with a third preferred embodiment of the present invention and illustrating the aforementioned treadmill operating in a forward motion mode.

Figure 8 is a side elevational view of a treadmill in accordance with a third preferred embodiment of the present invention and illustrating the aforementioned treadmill operating in a reverse motion mode.

Figure 9 is a perspective view of a treadmill in accordance with a fourth preferred embodiment of the present invention.

The possible structure, operation and efficacy of the specific implementation of the present invention are illustrated by the following preferred embodiments. 1 to 4, respectively, a perspective view, a rear view and a side view of two treadmills (100) according to a first preferred embodiment of the present invention, wherein the rear view is performed by a treadmill (100). Rear view, the side view is observed from the left side of the treadmill (100) / athlete (S). The treadmill (100) is basically identical in appearance to the common treadmill, and mainly includes a sports platform (110), a symmetrical two-pillar (130) that is erected upward from the left and right sides of the motion platform (110), and fixed. A symmetrical two armrest (140) and a console (150) at the top of the aforementioned two pillars (130).

The moving platform (110) has a frame body (111) having a rectangular frame, and the two ends of the length correspond to the front end and the rear end of the treadmill (100) respectively; a rectangular plate body (commonly referred to as a running board, not shown) Supported on the frame body (111) through a plurality of elastic support bodies (not shown), a front roller (112) and a rear roller (113) are respectively pivotally disposed on the frame body in the front and rear directions of the front plate body (111) (see Figures 3 and 4), each of which can be rotated in situ on the frame (111); an annular band (114) is looped over the front roller (112) and the rear roller (113) with appropriate tightness And bypassing the top side and the bottom side of the front plate body; thereby, the endless belt body (114) can be circulated around the frame body (111), and the top surface of the endless belt body (114) (115) A sports surface that can carry the athlete (S) and slide in the front-rear direction is formed for the athlete (S) to walk or run on the sports surface (115).

In the prior art, the motion platform of most treadmills may be adjusted in an electric or manual manner with respect to the angle of the ground. In other words, the athlete can adjust the aforementioned sports surface to a horizontal shape or a predetermined elevation angle according to the use requirements (or Depression angle) to simulate moving on flat or different slopes, respectively. The treadmill of the present invention can also adopt a motion platform capable of being adjusted in angle. In fact, the front end of the motion platform (110) in this embodiment is provided with a function for driving the motion platform (110) to change the angle. The electronic control mechanism (not shown), but since the related structure and operation belong to the prior art, and its presence does not affect the efficacy of the present invention, the description is omitted. The moving surfaces in each of the figures in the present case are horizontal, just a typical use of the treadmill, and do not limit the application of the present invention. In other words, when using the treadmill of the present invention, whether it is simulated forward motion or simulated backward Movement, depending on the needs of use, the moving surface of the aforementioned motion platform may be adjusted to the front and rear two ends, the front end is higher than the back end, or the front end is lower than the back end.

The front end of the moving platform (110) is provided with a cover (116), which is covered with the above-mentioned electronic control mechanism for driving the moving platform (110) to change the angle, and is also covered with a loop for driving the annular belt (114). A drive unit (120) and associated power system. The driving device (120) mainly comprises a motor (121) electrically connected to the annular belt body (114). The embodiment adopts a transmission mode common in the prior art, that is, a motor shaft of the motor (121) is fixed on the motor shaft. a small pulley (122), one end of the front drum (112) is fixed with a large pulley (123), and a belt (124) is sleeved between the two pulleys (122) (123); thereby, as shown in FIG. It is shown that when the motor (121) is controlled to operate in a positive direction (clockwise direction in the figure) (R1), the front drum (112) will rotate in the same direction with a lower rotation speed and a higher torque, correspondingly driving. The endless belt body (114) is circulated in a forward direction (D1), so that the top/moving surface (115) of the endless belt body (114) slides from front to back; conversely, as shown in FIG. When the motor (121) is controlled to operate in a reverse direction (counterclockwise direction in the figure) (R2) opposite to the aforementioned positive direction, the front drum (112) will be at a slower speed and a higher torque. Rotation, the corresponding driving endless belt body (114) is cyclically rotated in a reverse direction (D2) opposite to the forward direction, so that the top/moving surface (115) of the endless belt body (114) is backward Slide forward. The drive unit of the present invention can employ any of the prior art devices that can be used to drive an endless loop of the endless belt, but typically there is a motor that can operate in both directions.

The bottom ends of the symmetric two-pillars (130) are respectively fixed to the left and right sides of the frame body (11) of the moving platform (110), and the fixing position substantially corresponds to the front end of the moving surface (115). In the present embodiment, each of the pillars (130) extends straight from the bottom to the top (about 60 degrees), in other words, the more the top end of the pillar (130) is rearward.

As one of the features of the treadmill (100) of the present embodiment, the inner side of the right side pillar (130) is provided with upper and lower infrared ray emitting elements (181) (182), and the inner side of the left side struts (130) is provided with upper, a second infrared ray receiving element (183) (184), wherein the higher infrared ray emitting element (181) is opposite to the infrared ray receiving element (183), and the height substantially corresponds to the ordinary person standing on the moving surface (115) The thigh range of the time, and the front and rear positions are relatively rearward; the lower infrared emitting element (182) is opposite to the infrared receiving element (184), and the height substantially corresponds to the range of the lower leg when the ordinary person stands on the moving surface (115), and The front and rear positions are relatively forward. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, each of the infrared emitting elements (181) (182) on the right side pillar (130) can respectively emit an infrared ray (IR) to the left side, and if there is no occlusion in the middle, the left side pillar (130) Each of the infrared receiving elements (183) (184) can receive infrared rays (IR) emitted by the corresponding infrared emitting elements (181) (182); in other words, when the infrared emitting elements (181) (182) emit infrared rays ( IR), but the infrared receiving element (183) (184) is not received, which means that there is object blocking between the two.

The symmetrical two armrests (140) are respectively fixed to the top ends of the left and right two pillars (130), and each of them extends horizontally in the front-rear direction, and the height substantially corresponds to the waist or abdomen height when the ordinary person stands on the moving surface (115). The athlete (S) needs both hands to hold on both sides when needed. In this embodiment, the front and rear positions of the rear end of the armrest (140) substantially correspond to the intermediate position of the length of the moving surface (115); but in other embodiments of the invention (not shown), the left and right armrests may extend rearward. To the position corresponding to the rear end of the sports platform (in this case, the rear end of the armrest usually requires another longitudinal strut support), that is, the length of the side armrest of the treadmill completely corresponds to the length of the moving surface.

The aforementioned console (150) is fixed between the front ends of the left and right armrests (140) and is located substantially above the cover (116) at the front end of the moving platform (110). The console (150) is provided with a plurality of input interfaces (151) for manually inputting commands by the athlete (S) and a display interface (152) for displaying information for the viewer (S) to view.

On the rear side of the console (150) (ie, closer to the armrest (140), the side of the athlete (S)), substantially corresponding to the front end of the moving surface (115), and the height is the same as the armrest (140) The position is additionally provided with left and right grips (145) extending in the left-right direction for the athlete (S) to reach forward and grasp when needed.

An emergency switch (160) is disposed at a central position of the width of the rear side of the console (150). In this embodiment, a reciprocating switch (or a temporary switch) is provided, and a wide deflection type pressing cover is provided on the top of the console for the athlete. (S) Actively press the trigger in an emergency. In addition, a safety clip (172) is coupled to one end (rear end) of a cord (174) having a predetermined length, and the other end (front end) of the cord (174) is under the emergency switch (160) and the aforementioned pressing cover When the rope (174) is pulled back, the pressing cover of the emergency switch (160) is pulled to trigger the switch. The aforementioned emergency switch (160) and safety clip (172) kits belong to the prior art, for example, have been practically applied to the applicant (Qiaoshan Health Technology Co., Ltd.) on the "Matrix T50x" treadmill for sale. Of course, the treadmill of the present invention can replace the above structure with various emergency switches and safety clip kits in the prior art. For example, the emergency switch may adopt an alternating switch (or a lock switch), or may use a touch switch or a proximity sensor. (proximity sensor), even the emergency switch can be placed on the wired or wireless controller for the athlete to hold in the hand, on the other hand, the rope of the safety clip may be detachable between the front end and the console (for example Using a pin or magnet), a switch circuit is triggered when the rope is pulled back and out of the console. The so-called "triggering" of a switch includes short-circuiting (opening) or breaking an electronic circuit, or changing an electrical state from one level to another, such as a change in voltage, current, resistance, or capacitance.

A control unit (not shown) is disposed inside the console (150), and the control unit refers to a related hardware, software, and firmware assembly capable of processing various electrical signals of the treadmill (100) in a predetermined manner. A microcontroller (MCU) with a built-in specific program is usually used as the processing core, and related circuits and components are integrated on one or a plurality of boards. The control unit and the foregoing electronic control mechanism (for changing the angle of the motion platform (110), not shown), the driving device (120), the input interface (151), the display interface (152), and the emergency switch ( 160) The infrared emitting element (181) (182) and the infrared receiving element (183) (184) are electrically connected. The control unit can control the drive circuit of the motor (121) of the drive device (120), including the command motor (121) to start or stop the operation, and control the steering and the rotational speed of the operation, and as a result, drive the drive device (120) The endless belt body (114) is cyclically rotated in a predetermined direction of rotation (i.e., the aforementioned forward direction (D1) or the aforementioned reverse direction (D2)) and a predetermined number of revolutions. In addition, the control unit can also receive and process instructions or data from the input interface (151), control the display content of the display interface (152), receive circuit signals from the emergency switch (160) (monitor whether it is triggered), and control infrared rays. The transmitting element (181) (182) emits infrared light and receives a circuit signal from the infrared receiving element (183) (184) (monitoring whether it receives infrared light).

The aforementioned treadmill (100) can be selected to operate in a forward motion mode or in a reverse motion mode. In short, the forward motion mode is used by the athlete (S) to simulate moving forward or forward. The motion, reverse motion mode is used by the athlete (S) to simulate the movement of walking backwards (or even running backwards). The athlete (S) can select the sport mode he wants to use through the input interface (151) on the console (150). When operating in the forward motion mode, as shown in FIG. 3, the control unit controls the driving device (120) to rotate the endless belt body (114) in the forward direction (D1), that is, to drive the moving surface ( 115) sliding from front to back, requiring the athlete (S) to cooperate with the forward step movement; When the dynamic mode is operated, as shown in FIG. 4, the control unit controls the driving device (120) to rotate the endless belt body (114) in the reverse direction (D2), that is, to drive the moving surface (115) from the backward direction. The front slide requires the athlete (S) to cooperate with the backward step movement. The rotation speed control of the endless belt body (114), the angle control of the motion platform (110), and the stylized (sequential) control of the speed and the angle, etc., do not belong to or affect the present invention, and therefore will not be described.

Figure 3 illustrates the treadmill (100) in a forward motion mode in which an athlete (S) on the moving surface (115) faces the front of the treadmill (100) to simulate a forward walking motion. As shown in the figure, based on the correct mode of use, the athlete (S) has clamped the aforementioned safety clip (172) in position on the front of the garment prior to exercise. In the forward motion mode, whether walking or running, the body of the athlete (S) will generally be in the first half or at least the middle of the space above the moving surface (115), making its foot and moving surface (115) The trailing edge maintains a safe distance (e.g., approximately one-third of the length of the moving surface (115)), and the cord (174) of the safety clip (172) assumes a relaxed, constricted condition. During exercise, if the athlete (S) is physically or temporarily distracted, the speed of walking forward or running is slower than the speed of the moving surface (115) sliding backwards, the athlete (S) will be relative to the motion platform ( 110) Actual retreat; because the safety clip (172) is fixed to the athlete (S), the retreat of the athlete (S) is equivalent to pulling the rope (174) backwards; when the athlete (S) retreats to a potentially dangerous preset The alert position (as shown by the imaginary line in Figure 3, where the athlete (S') is located), that is, the rope (174) of the safety clip (172) is completely straightened (as shown by imaginary lines in Figure 3) Safety clamp (172') and rope (174')), the front end of the rope (174') will trigger the emergency switch (160); when the aforementioned control unit monitors that the emergency switch (160) is triggered, the drive will be immediately activated. The motor (121) of (120) is stopped, and the endless belt body (114) is stopped in the shortest time to avoid an accident.

In the above mechanism, the switch circuit of the safety clip (172), the rope (174) and the emergency switch (160) constitutes a first detecting device for detecting whether the athlete (S) enters a pre-normal motion range. The warning zone (hereinafter referred to as the first warning zone), in summary, is an example of detecting whether the upper body of the athlete (S) (the position wearing the safety clip (172)) enters the space above the sports surface (115). Approximately one-third of the back end, when the first detecting device detects that the athlete (S) enters the first guard zone, an electrical signal is sent to the control unit, or the control unit may be based on the first Detecting an electrical state of the device to determine or determine the detection result. In the prior art, the above-mentioned safety clip kit is the most commonly used device and method for detecting an excessive backlash of an athlete. However, the treadmill of the present invention may employ other types of detecting devices, which will be exemplified hereinafter.

Of course, in addition to the above-mentioned detection action to stop urgently in a critical emergency, during the above movement, if the athlete (S) feels dangerous or needs to stop exercising immediately, he can actively press the emergency switch (160). The drive unit (120) immediately stops driving the endless belt body (114). It should be noted here that, like some treadmills of the prior art, the treadmill of the present invention may only have a safety clip kit (or other detecting device that can detect an excessive backlash of the athlete) without setting an emergency switch. On the contrary, as with some treadmills in the prior art, the treadmill of the present invention may only have an emergency switch, and no safety clip kit (or any detecting device that can detect excessive backlash of the athlete), that is, in the positive In the sport mode, no detection device can detect the front and rear position of the athlete to stop in a timely manner, and the athlete must stop the operation by the emergency switch (160).

Figure 4 illustrates the movement of the treadmill (100) in a reverse motion mode with an athlete (S) on the moving surface (115) facing the treadmill (100) in a simulated backward walk. In the reverse motion mode, the athlete (S) does not need to be equipped with the aforementioned safety clip (172). Contrary to the situation in the forward motion mode, the body of the athlete (S) in the backward movement is generally located in the rear half or at least the middle position of the space above the moving surface (115), making its footsteps and moving surfaces (115) The leading edge (or the interface of the moving surface (115) and the aforementioned cover (116)) maintains a safe distance (e.g., about one third of the length of the moving surface (115)). When the treadmill (100) is operating in the reverse motion mode, the aforementioned control unit controls the infrared emitting element (181) (182) on the right pillar (130) to emit infrared rays (IR) and monitors the left measuring pillar (130). Whether the infrared receiving element (183) (184) on the receiving infrared light (IR) is received. During exercise, if the athlete (S) is physically weak or temporarily distracted, the backward walking speed is slower than the speed at which the moving surface (115) slides forward, and the athlete (S) is relative to the moving platform (110). Actual advancement; when the athlete (S) advances to a dangerous pre-set alert position (as shown by the imaginary line in Figure 4, the position of the athlete (S')), the legs will enter the left and right two pillars Between (130), the infrared ray (IR) emitted from the infrared ray emitting element (181) (182) on the right side is blocked, so that the infrared ray receiving element (183) (184) on the left side does not receive infrared rays (IR) at a time; The control unit monitors that any of the infrared receiving elements (183) (184) does not receive infrared rays (IR), and immediately stops the motor (121) of the driving device (120) from operating, so that the annular band (114) is Stop turning in the shortest time to avoid accidents.

In the above mechanism, the infrared emitting element (181) (182) and the infrared receiving element (183) (184) constitute a second detecting means for detecting whether the athlete (S) enters a front of the normal range of motion. Set the warning zone (hereinafter referred to as the second warning zone). In summary, the example of the above is to detect the shipment. Whether the leg of the mover (S) (which may also be the hand or other parts of the body) enters between the left and right legs (130), and when the second detecting device detects that the athlete (S) enters the second alert In the area, an electrical signal is sent to the control unit, or the control unit can learn or determine the detection result based on an electrical state of the second detecting device. In this embodiment, two pairs of infrared components are disposed on the pillars (130), and two infrared rays (IR) for detecting different positions are generated, one is higher and behind, and the other is lower and forward, in order to avoid detecting leakage. Improve trustworthiness. In other embodiments of the invention (not shown), it may be possible to provide more pairs of infrared kits on the struts (130) or to provide only a pair of infrared kits at critical locations. The infrared rays for detection do not have to be arranged in the left and right axial directions. For example, an infrared emitting element can be disposed at the bottom of the console (150), and a corresponding infrared receiving element is disposed on the top of the cover (116) for detection. The infrared is rendered longitudinally.

Similarly, in the reverse motion mode, in addition to the detection by the second detecting means to stop in an emergency, if the athlete (S) feels dangerous or needs to stop moving immediately in the backward movement, The emergency switch (160) can also be actively pressed by hand to cause the drive unit (120) to immediately stop driving the endless belt body (114). However, it is to be reiterated that the aforementioned emergency switch is a preferred embodiment, and the treadmill of the present invention may not be provided with an emergency switch.

It must be additionally noted that, in the forward motion mode as shown in FIG. 3, the infrared emitting element (181) (182) and the infrared receiving element (183) (184) (ie, the aforementioned second detecting means) do not work. Of course, the control unit does not control the driving device (120) to stop according to the detection result of the second detecting device. The reason is that, as shown in FIG. 3, in the forward motion mode, when the athlete (S) walks or runs in the normal position in the normal position, the legs and hands may enter the left and right two pillars (130). Between, that is, the warning zone (second guard zone) in the reverse motion mode, may be all or part of the normal range of motion in the forward motion mode, or the front end of the normal motion range, the athlete The (part of the body part) enters a normal or common phenomenon, or at least not because the movement speed of the athlete is slower than the rotational speed of the annular belt, so there is no need to control the emergency stop of the annular belt. More correctly, if the second detection device and the associated emergency stop mechanism are also enabled in the forward motion mode, it may be dangerous.

Next, some other preferred embodiments will be used to demonstrate the other detection methods and security mechanisms that the treadmill of the present invention may employ. To be stated first, the treadmills (200) (300) (400) of the second to fourth preferred examples below, wherein the motion platform, the driving device, the symmetric two-pillar, The main components of the symmetrical two armrests, the console, and the like are the same as those of the treadmill (100) of the first embodiment, and will not be described again. The embodiments will be described only for the characteristic portions thereof.

Please refer to FIG. 5 and FIG. 6, which are respectively a rear view and a side view of a treadmill (200) according to a second preferred embodiment of the present invention. The treadmill (200) of the present embodiment differs from the treadmill (100) of the first embodiment in that no infrared transmitting/receiving elements are disposed on the left and right two pillars, and instead, at the bottom of the console (250) thereof An ultrasonic module (280) electrically connected to the control unit is disposed at a central position of the width, and the ultrasonic module (280) is a conventional modular device (for example, a "reverse radar" commonly used in automobiles). It integrates components that emit ultrasonic waves and components that can receive ultrasonic waves. The ultrasonic module (280) can emit an ultrasonic wave (US) from the bottom of the console (250) downward, and the ultrasonic wave (US) collides with the object within a certain distance and bounces back to be replaced by the ultrasonic module (280). Receiving, by measuring the time taken by the ultrasonic wave (US) from the launch to the bounce back, the distance of the aforementioned object can be known. In this application, it can be used to determine whether the body part of the athlete enters the console (250). The default warning zone below. As shown in Figure 6, when the treadmill (200) is operating in the reverse motion mode, the aforementioned control unit controls the ultrasonic module (280) to emit ultrasonic waves (US) and monitors the rebound condition of the ultrasonic (US); The athlete (S) stays in a safe position for the reverse movement and does not interfere with the ultrasonic (US); when the athlete (S) is too advanced (as shown in Figure 6 by the imaginary line of the athlete (S' At the location), the hand or leg causes the ultrasonic (US) to bounce back to the ultrasonic module (280) early, allowing the control unit to determine that the athlete (S) enters the warning zone, thus controlling the drive to stop operating. The treadmill (200) of this embodiment also has an emergency switch (260) and a safety clip (272) kit (first detecting device), which function as before. Similarly, when the treadmill (200) is operating in the forward motion mode, the aforementioned ultrasonic module (280) (second detecting means) does not operate for the same reason as above.

According to one aspect of the present invention, in a specific embodiment, the treadmill of the present invention has a detecting unit, the detecting unit has a first detecting function and a second detecting function, and the first detecting device can be used. In order to detect whether the athlete enters the first warning zone preset to the back end position of the space above the motion platform, the second detecting device can be used to detect whether the athlete enters the preset space in the space above the motion platform. The second guard zone at the front end position. In the first and second preferred embodiments, the first detecting device and the second detecting device are respectively provided by a first detecting device (for example, a security clip kit) and a second detecting device (for example, an infrared kit). Or the ultrasonic module is achieved. In the next embodiment, the single detection device has the first detection function and the second detection function.

Please refer to FIG. 7 and FIG. 8 for a side view of the treadmill (300) according to the third preferred embodiment of the present invention in two motion modes. The treadmill (300) of the present embodiment is characterized in that an ultrasonic module (380) is disposed at a central position of the width of the rear side of the console (350), and an ultrasonic wave (US) can be emitted toward the rear, and the ultrasonic wave (US) The object colliding within a certain distance will bounce back and be received by the ultrasonic module (380). By measuring the time taken by the ultrasonic wave (US) from the launch to the bounce, the distance of the object can be known. In this application, it can be used to determine the distance between the athlete (S) and the console (350), that is, to determine the position of the athlete (S) on the motion platform (310). As shown in Fig. 7, when the treadmill (300) operates in the forward motion mode, the control unit controls the ultrasonic module (380) to emit ultrasonic waves (US) and monitors the rebound condition of the ultrasonic (US), that is, The front and rear positions of the athlete (S) are monitored; when the control unit detects based on the ultrasonic module (380), it is determined that the athlete (S) retreats to a first warning zone behind the normal range of motion (as illustrated in FIG. 7) The line where the athlete (S') is located) controls the drive to stop. As shown in Figure 8, when the treadmill (300) is operating in the reverse motion mode, the control unit also controls the ultrasonic module (380) to emit ultrasonic waves (US) and monitors the rebound condition of the ultrasonic (US); Based on the detection of the ultrasonic module (380), the control unit determines that the athlete (S) advances to a second warning zone in front of the normal motion range (as shown by the imaginary line in FIG. 8 (S') Position) will control the drive to stop running. As can be seen from the above, the ultrasonic module (380) in this embodiment has the first detecting function and the second detecting function. Since the ultrasonic module (380) is also used for detection in the forward motion mode, the treadmill (300) of the present embodiment does not have or need to provide the aforementioned safety clip kit. The treadmill (300) of the present embodiment is still provided with an emergency switch (360), so that the athlete (S) can actively command an emergency stop in both sports modes.

In this embodiment, the detecting device (ie, the ultrasonic module (380)) can grasp the front and rear positions of the athlete (S) (not just "whether the athlete reaches or crosses a certain position"), so the present embodiment The treadmill (300) may be further designed to: in the forward motion mode, when the detected athlete (S) is retreated to a first warning zone slightly ahead of the first warning zone, ie, the athlete Although the position of (S) lags behind the normal range of motion, it does not reach the point where it must be stopped urgently. The control unit will first control the drive to decelerate the ring belt properly, so that the athlete (S) has the opportunity to speed up his walking or The speed of running actually returns to the normal range of motion; if it is detected that the athlete (S) has left the first warning zone, the loop belt is controlled to return to the previous speed; if the athlete is detected (S ) Continue to retreat to the first warning zone before an emergency stop. Conversely, in the reverse motion mode, when the athlete (S) is detected to advance to a second pre-slighter than the second guard zone In the police area, that is, the position of the athlete (S) is ahead of the normal range of motion, but it does not reach the point where it must be stopped urgently. The control unit will first control the driving device to decelerate the annular belt properly, so that the athlete has The opportunity speeds up the speed of the retreat, and actually returns to the normal range of motion; if it is detected that the athlete (S) has retreated from the second warning zone, the loop belt is controlled to return to the previous speed; if motion is detected (S) proceed to the second guard zone before an emergency stop. The "warning zone" has the meaning of pre-alert, and it is still a kind of "warning zone" in the spirit of the present invention.

In this embodiment, the ultrasonic module (380) also works in either the forward motion mode or the reverse motion mode, that is, the ultrasound (US) is transmitted and received to detect the athlete (S). Front and rear position. However, because in the forward motion mode, the position of the athlete (S) is safer and more dangerous, but in the reverse motion mode, the athlete (S) is safer and more advanced. Dangerous, therefore, the control unit controls the drive to slow or stop the rotation of the endless belt. In the forward movement mode, it is triggered by the "the first warning zone (including the warning zone) that the athlete enters the back end." In the reverse motion mode, it is triggered by the “the second warning zone (including the warning zone) that the athlete enters the front end. The two sets of reaction mechanisms are different and will not be activated at the same time.

According to one aspect of the present invention, in a specific embodiment, the control unit in the treadmill of the present invention has two reaction mechanisms: first, when based on detection by a first detecting device or a first detecting function, determining When the athlete enters a first warning zone that is preset to be at the rear end position above the motion platform, the driving device is controlled to slow or stop the rotation of the annular belt body, which is called a "back-end warning mechanism"; Based on the detection of a second detecting device or the second detecting function, determining that the athlete enters a second warning zone preset to be at the front end position above the moving platform, the driving device is controlled to slow down the annular band or Stop turning, let's call it the "front-end warning mechanism." The above two reaction mechanisms can be enabled or disabled by the control unit according to the situation, that is, when the treadmill operates in the forward motion mode, the control unit activates the aforementioned back-end alert mechanism and disables The aforementioned front-end alert mechanism, on the other hand, when the treadmill is operating in the reverse motion mode, the control unit activates the aforementioned front-end alert mechanism and deactivates the aforementioned back-end alert mechanism. In the embodiment provided with the aforementioned emergency switch, the control unit controls the driving device to stop when the emergency switch is triggered, which is called "emergency switching reaction mechanism"; preferably, whether in the forward motion mode or in the In the reverse motion mode, the aforementioned emergency switch response mechanism is enabled.

Please refer to FIG. 9, which is a perspective view of a treadmill (400) according to a fourth preferred embodiment of the present invention. The treadmill (400) of the present embodiment is characterized in that the frame (411) of the motion platform (410) is left, On the right side, the front and rear two infrared emitting elements (481) (482) are provided on the outer side of the right side tread (416), and the front and rear two infrared receiving elements (483) are provided on the outer side of the left side tread (416). (484), the front infrared ray emitting element (481) and the infrared ray receiving element (483) are opposed to each other, and the opposite infrared ray emitting element (482) and the infrared ray receiving element (484) are also opposed to each other, and each pair of infrared ray kits Infrared (IR) is generated between the moving surface (415), which is slightly higher than the moving surface (415), and can be stepped on the moving surface (415) at the corresponding position of the athlete's foot. Interrupted. Infrared (IR) near the rear end of the moving surface (415) is used to detect whether the athlete enters a first warning zone and only works in forward motion mode; infrared (IR) near the front end of the moving surface (415) is used to detect It is measured whether the athlete enters a second warning zone and only works in the reverse motion mode.

In the first to fourth preferred embodiments, the first warning zone and the second warning zone are both located in the upper space of the moving surface, and the position of the first warning zone is longer than the front and rear of the moving surface. The center of the second warning zone is further forward than the center of the front and rear of the sports surface. In other embodiments of the invention (not shown), the second warning zone may be set before the upper space of the moving surface, for example, as previously mentioned (see Figure 4) the invention may be at the console (150) An infrared emitting element is disposed at the bottom, and a corresponding infrared receiving element is disposed on the top of the cover (116), and the longitudinal infrared light generated thereby is used to detect whether the athlete (in the reverse motion mode) enters the cover. In addition, the present invention can also provide a pressure sensor on the cover. When the athlete steps on the cover, the control unit controls the annular belt in the reverse rotation to stop urgently.

In addition to the previously disclosed embodiments and their derived aspects, the method for detecting whether an athlete enters a preset warning zone includes at least a front end region of a top surface of the aforementioned rectangular plate body (commonly known as a running board) below the moving surface. The pressure sensing piece is disposed in the rear end region to sense whether the aforementioned area is stepped on by the athlete; the pressure sensor is disposed on the elastic support body for supporting the rectangular plate body, and the stepping of the exerciser is determined according to the force of the support body. Position; at the back end of the treadmill, an ultrasonic module capable of transmitting ultrasonic waves forward is provided, and the front and rear positions of the athlete are judged by the rebound of the ultrasonic wave; the structure of the aforementioned safety clip kit is moved to the rear end of the treadmill, that is, It is possible to detect whether the athlete is excessively forward in the reverse motion mode; one end of the cord is connected to a carrier (such as a clip or a belt), and the other end of the cord is fixed to a reel in a reel, the foregoing The reel has an elastic preload force for winding the rope, and the length of the rope being pulled by the external force can be known by measuring the rotation motion of the reel, so that the reel is placed at the front end of the treadmill, that is, In the reverse motion mode detection with carrying ago Whether the player who describes the carrier is excessively forward, and the aforementioned reel is placed at the rear end of the treadmill, it is possible to detect whether the athlete carrying the aforementioned carrier is excessively rearward in the forward motion mode. Of course, in addition to the various detection devices or methods described above or simply indicated, the present invention may suitably employ any of the prior art detection devices or techniques according to the implementation options.

Finally, it must be stated that the "treadmill" is a commonly used name in the Chinese language, but as in reality, such sports equipment is often used for walking. For the purposes of the present invention, the term "treadmill" is not limiting. It is only possible for the athlete to perform the running, in other words, according to the implementation option, the treadmill of the present invention may not be able to perform the running, for example, when applying the invention as a sports equipment for medical rehabilitation purposes, it may be designed In either the forward motion mode or the reverse motion mode, the aforementioned loop belt does not rotate faster than a preset value, so that it can only be simulated forward by the athlete (rehabilitator). Walk or walk backwards.

100‧‧‧ treadmill

110‧‧‧ sports platform

111‧‧‧ ‧ frame

112‧‧‧ front roller

113‧‧‧ Rear roller

114‧‧‧Circular body

115‧‧‧Top/Sports

116‧‧‧ Cover

120‧‧‧ drive

121‧‧‧Motor

130‧‧‧ pillar

140‧‧‧Handrail

150‧‧‧ console

160‧‧‧Emergency switch

181‧‧‧Infrared emitting elements

182‧‧‧Infrared emitting element

183‧‧‧Infrared receiving components

184‧‧‧Infrared receiving components

D2‧‧‧ reverse direction

IR‧‧‧Infrared

R2‧‧‧anti-rotation

S‧‧‧sports

Claims (10)

An electric treadmill capable of bidirectional movement comprises: a movement platform having a frame body and an annular belt body which can be circulated around the frame body, wherein the top surface of the annular band body forms a front and rear a moving surface that slides in the direction for an athlete to walk or run on the aforementioned moving surface; a warning zone is preset above the moving platform, and the position of the warning zone is more forward than the center of the front and rear lengths of the moving surface a driving device having a motor, wherein the motor is electrically connected to the annular belt body to drive the annular belt body to rotate around; an emergency switch is disposed above the motion platform for the athlete to take the initiative a triggering device for detecting whether the athlete enters the warning zone; and a control unit electrically connected to the driving device, the emergency switch and the detecting device; the control unit can control the driving The device, the driving device drives the annular belt body to rotate around at a predetermined steering speed and a predetermined rotation speed; the control unit has a first reaction machine And a second reaction mechanism that can be activated or deactivated according to the condition, wherein the first reaction mechanism refers to that the control unit controls the driving device to slow or stop the rotation of the annular band when the emergency switch is triggered; The second reaction mechanism refers to that when the motion detecting device determines that the athlete enters the warning zone based on the detection of the detecting device, the control unit controls the driving device to slow or stop the rotating belt; the electric treadmill may Is selected to operate in a forward motion mode or in a reverse motion mode; in the forward motion mode, the control unit controls the driving device to slide the moving surface of the annular band from front to back, and enable the foregoing a reaction mechanism and the aforesaid second reaction mechanism; in the foregoing reverse motion mode, the control unit controls the driving device to slide the moving surface of the annular band from the back to the front, and simultaneously activate the first reaction Mechanism and the aforementioned second reaction mechanism. The two-way movable electric treadmill of claim 1, wherein the aforementioned warning zone is in a space above the aforementioned moving surface. An electric treadmill capable of two-way movement comprises: a movement platform having a frame body and an annular belt body which can be circulated around the frame body, The top surface of the annular band body forms a moving surface that can slide in the front-rear direction for an athlete to walk or run on the moving surface; the first warning zone and a second are preset above the motion platform. In the warning zone, the position of the first warning zone is more rearward than the center of the front and rear lengths of the moving surface, and the position of the second warning zone is more forward than the center of the front and rear lengths of the moving surface; a driving device has a a motor, the motor is electrically connected to the annular belt body, and the annular belt body can be driven to rotate around; a detecting unit has a first detecting function and a second detecting function, and the first detecting function can be used The second detecting device is configured to detect whether the athlete enters the second warning zone, and the control unit is electrically connected to the driving device and the detecting unit. The foregoing control unit can control the driving device to drive the driving device to drive the annular belt to rotate around at a predetermined steering speed and a predetermined rotation speed; Having a first reaction mechanism and a second reaction mechanism that can be activated or deactivated depending on the situation, the first reaction mechanism is to determine that the athlete enters the first warning according to the detection of the first detecting function When the zone is controlled, the control unit controls the driving device to slow down or stop the rotation of the annular band; and the second reaction mechanism refers to determining that the athlete enters the second warning zone when detecting based on the detection function of the second detecting function. The control unit controls the driving device to slow or stop the rotation of the annular belt; the electric treadmill may be selected to operate in a forward motion mode or in a reverse motion mode; in the forward motion mode The control unit controls the driving device to slide the moving surface of the annular belt body from front to back, and activates the first reaction mechanism and deactivates the second reaction mechanism; in the reverse motion mode, the foregoing control unit controls The foregoing driving device slides the moving surface of the aforementioned endless belt body from the back to the front, and activates the aforementioned second reaction mechanism and deactivates Said first response mechanism. The two-way motionable electric treadmill of claim 3, wherein the first warning zone and the second warning zone are both located in an upper space of the aforementioned moving surface. The two-way motion-driven electric treadmill of claim 3, wherein the detecting unit has two detecting devices, wherein one of the detecting devices has the first detecting function, and the other detecting device has the second detecting device Measuring function. The two-way motionable treadmill of claim 3, wherein the detecting unit has a detecting device, and the detecting device has the first detecting function and the second detecting function. The electric treadmill according to claim 3, wherein the electric treadmill further comprises an emergency switch, wherein the emergency switch is disposed above the motion platform for the athlete to actively trigger with the hand; the control unit And electrically connected to the emergency switch, and the control unit controls the driving device to rotate the ring belt when the emergency switch is triggered, whether in the forward motion mode or the reverse motion mode. Slow down or stop turning. An electric treadmill capable of bidirectional movement comprises: a movement platform having a frame body and an annular belt body which can be circulated around the frame body, wherein the top surface of the annular band body forms a front and rear a moving surface that slides in the direction for an athlete to walk or run on the aforementioned moving surface; a warning zone is preset above the moving platform, and the position of the warning zone is more forward than the center of the front and rear lengths of the moving surface a driving device having a motor, wherein the motor is electrically connected to the annular belt body to drive the annular belt to circulate; a detecting device is configured to detect whether the athlete enters the warning zone; and The control unit is electrically connected to the driving device and the detecting device; the control unit can control the driving device to drive the driving device to drive the annular belt to rotate around at a predetermined steering speed and a predetermined rotation speed; the control unit has a The reaction mechanism that can be activated or deactivated can be determined according to the situation. The foregoing reaction mechanism refers to determining that the aforementioned athlete is based on the detection of the detecting device. In the foregoing warning zone, the control unit controls the driving device to slow or stop the rotation of the annular belt; the electric treadmill may be selected to operate in a forward motion mode or in a reverse motion mode; In the sport mode, the control unit controls the driving device to slide the moving surface of the annular belt body from front to back, and deactivates the foregoing reaction mechanism; in the reverse motion mode, the control unit controls the driving device to make the ring The moving surface of the belt body slides back and forward and activates the aforementioned reaction mechanism. The two-way movable electric treadmill of claim 8, wherein the aforementioned warning zone is in a space above the aforementioned moving surface. The two-way movable electric treadmill of claim 8, wherein the aforementioned control unit further has another A reaction mechanism, the other reaction mechanism being activated at least in the forward motion mode, means that when receiving a predetermined signal, the control unit controls the driving device to slow or stop the rotation of the annular band.