CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/164,230, filed March 22, 2021, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to treadmills. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a slat configuration for a running belt of the treadmill.

BACKGROUND

[0003] Treadmills enable a person to walk, jog, skip, or run for a relatively long distance in a limited space by having a running belt that moves in the opposite direction of the treadmill user. It should be noted that throughout this document, the term “run” and variations thereof (e.g., running, etc.) in any context is intended to include all substantially linear locomotion by a person. Examples of this linear locomotion include, but are not limited to, jogging, walking, skipping, scampering, sprinting, dashing, hopping, galloping, push/pull exercises, etc.

[0004] Furthermore, treadmills can be implemented such that the running belt of the treadmill is operated and moved manually (i.e., by only the force of the person running on the treadmill) or powered by the force of a motor that drives the running belt (or some combination thereof).

There are two main running belt types: a slatted running belt and a continuous belt running belt. A continuous belt configuration refers to the running belt being endless or continuous such that a user may not perceive the beginning and end of the running belt. A slatted running belt is formed from a plurality of slats that extend substantially perpendicular across a width of the treadmill and are supported by belts and pulleys on opposing transverse sides of the treadmill. A slatted running belt is of a relatively more complex construction given the number of components involved as compared to the endless or continuous running belt. However, many users find slatted running belts more comfortable and, in turn, provide an overall better experience as compared to continuous or endless running belts for a treadmill. SUMMARY

[0005] One implementation of the present disclosure is a treadmill. The treadmill includes a running belt rotatable in a direction of motion and including a plurality of slats. At least one slat in the plurality of slats includes a top portion, a longitudinal rib extending away from the top portion and oriented along a longitudinal direction of the slat, and a bottom flange coupled to the longitudinal rib at or near a vertical bottom of the longitudinal rib such that the longitudinal rib is substantially positioned between the top portion and the bottom flange. The bottom flange extends away from the longitudinal rib on opposing sides of the longitudinal rib.

[0006] Another implementation of the present disclosure is a slat for a belt of an exercise or a therapeutic apparatus. The slat has a longitudinal direction and includes a top portion configured to support at least a portion of an engagement surface of the exercise or therapeutic apparatus, a longitudinal rib extending away from the top portion and oriented along the longitudinal direction of the slat, and a bottom flange coupled to the longitudinal rib at or near a vertical bottom of the longitudinal rib such that the longitudinal rib is positioned substantially between the top portion and the bottom flange. The bottom flange extends away from the longitudinal rib on opposing sides of the longitudinal rib.

[0007] Another implementation of the present disclosure is a running belt. The running belt includes a plurality of slats. Each of the plurality of slats includes a top portion, a longitudinal rib extending away from the top portion and is substantially oriented along a longitudinal direction of the slat, and a bottom flange coupled to the longitudinal rib at or near a vertical bottom of the longitudinal rib such that the longitudinal rib is substantially positioned between the top portion and the bottom flange. The bottom flange extends away from the longitudinal rib on opposing sides of the longitudinal rib.

[0008] Numerous specific details are provided to impart a thorough understanding of embodiments of the subject matter of the present disclosure. The described features of the subject matter of the present disclosure may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments and/or implementations. In this regard, one or more features of an aspect of the invention may be combined with one or more features of a different aspect of the invention. Moreover, additional features may be recognized in certain embodiments and/or implementations that may not be present in all embodiments or implementations. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0009] The disclosure will become more fully understood from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying figures, wherein like reference numerals refer to like elements.

[0010] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a treadmill having a slatted running belt, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0011] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the base of the treadmill of FIG. 1 with the running belt removed, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0012] FIG. 3 is a top perspective view of the running belt of the treadmill of FIG. 1, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0013] FIG. 4 is a top view of a first embodiment of a slat for the slatted running belt of FIG. 1, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 5 is a front view of the slat of FIG. 4, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0015] FIG. 6 is a front section view of the slat of FIG. 4 along line 6-6, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 7 is an end or side view of the slat of FIG. 4, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 8 is a side section view of the slat of FIG. 4 along line 8-8, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 9 is a side cross-sectional view of the slat of FIG. 4 along line 9-9, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 10 is a top perspective view of a base portion of a second embodiment of a slat for the slatted running belt of FIG. 1, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 11 is a bottom view of the base portion of FIG. 10, according to an exemplary embodiment. [0021] FIG. 12 is test data corresponding to a base portion of the slat of FIG. 4, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 13 is test data corresponding to the base portion of FIG. 10, according to an exemplary embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] Before turning to the Figures, which illustrate certain exemplary embodiments in detail, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the details or methodology set forth in the description or illustrated in the Figures. It should also be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of description only and should not be regarded as limiting.

[0024] Referring to the Figures generally, a slat for a running belt of a treadmill is shown according to various embodiments herein. The slat may be one of a plurality of slats that are configured to be coupled to endless belts of a treadmill. In this way, the plurality of slats in combination with the endless belts form a running belt for the treadmill. As described herein, the slat includes at least one integral fastener proximate a first end (left side) and at least one integral fastener positioned proximate a second end (right side) opposite the first end of the slat. The at least one fastener on the first end couples to a first endless belt while the at least one fastener on the second end couples to a second endless belt. The integral fasteners are advantageous in reducing the number of components for assembling the running belt. The endless belts are disposed on transverse sides of the treadmill such that the slat extends across a part of a width of the treadmill. The first and second endless belts at least partially support the slat. Multiple slats are coupled to the endless belts to form the slatted running belt. After coupling the slats to the endless belts to form the running belt, the slatted running belt may then be supported by one or more pulleys or rollers to enable relative movement of the slatted running belt relative to a base of the treadmill. As described herein, the slat includes a longitudinal rib with a plurality of gussets extending outward and away from the longitudinal rib (i.e., towards transverse edges of the slat). The longitudinal rib is coupled to a bottom flange. When a cross-sectional view is taken, the slat has a predominately I-shape. Among other benefits, this structural configuration of a slat may provide better support for a user as well as improved performance characteristics. These and other features and benefits of the slat configurations of the present disclosure are described more fully herein below.

[0025] Referring now to FIGS. 1-2, a treadmill 10 is shown according to one embodiment.

The treadmill 10 may be a manual treadmill, or a powered treadmill that includes a motor. A manual treadmill refers to a treadmill that does not include a motor whereby a running belt is moved by the power or force from a user. In the example shown, the treadmill 10 is a manual treadmill. However, the principles described herein are also applicable with a powered treadmill.

[0026] The treadmill 10 includes a base 12 which generally refers to the assembly of components located proximate to a support surface (e.g., the floor or ground) for the treadmill 10. Accordingly, the base 12 is shown to include a running belt 30 that extends substantially longitudinally along a running axis 18 and defines a non-planar running surface 40 (e.g., curved). In other embodiments, the running belt 30 defines a planar or substantially planar running surface (e.g., flat). In operation and when a user is facing the front display device, the user runs or walks on the treadmill in the direction of the running axis 18 as the portion of the running belt 30 under the user moves in the opposite direction (e.g., away from the front display device). The running axis 18 extends generally between a front end 20 and a rear end 22 of the treadmill 10; more specifically, the running axis 18 extends generally between the centerlines of a front shaft and a rear shaft, which will be discussed in more detail below.

[0027] With reference to FIG. 2, the treadmill 10 includes a frame 100, which in this embodiment represents an assembly of elements coupled together that form or make-up the frame 100. In one exemplary embodiment, the specific elements that make up the base 12 and the frame 100 are discussed further in U.S. Patent Application No. 16/732,981, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The base 12 is shown to include a front shaft assembly 120 coupled to the frame 100 and positioned near a front end 20, and a rear shaft assembly 140 coupled to the frame 100 and positioned near the rear end 22 of frame 100, generally opposite the front end 20. In operation, the frame 100 may support, at least partially, the front and rear shaft assemblies 120 and 140. The front shaft assembly includes a pair of front running belt pulleys coupled to a shaft, while the rear shaft assembly includes a pair of rear running belt pulleys 141 coupled to a shaft 142. The front and rear running belt pulleys 121, 141 are configured to facilitate movement/rotation of the running belt 30. In this regard and as discussed in more detail below, the running belt 30 is disposed about the front and rear running belt pulleys 121, 141. As the front and rear running belt pulleys 121, 141 are preferably fixed relative to shafts 122 and 142, respectively, rotation of the front and rear running belt pulleys 121, 141 causes the shafts 122, 142 to rotate in the same direction. In a powered treadmill embodiment, at least one of the front shaft assembly 120 or the rear shaft assembly 140 is powered by a motor.

[0028] Referring now to FIG. 3, the construction of the running belt 30 is shown in greater detail. The running belt 30 is constructed from or formed by a plurality of slats 200 coupled to a pair of endless belts 250. A first endless belt 250 is positioned at or a near a first end (e.g., left side when viewing the belt from a user’s perspective facing the display device) of the running belt 30 while a second endless belt 250 is positioned at or near a second end (e.g., right side based on the point of view above) of the running belt 30. The slats 200 may be coupled to the endless belts 250 in any suitable fashion. In the examples shown, fasteners 204 (enumerated in FIG. 5) (e.g., bolts, screws, etc.) of the slats 200 couple each slat 200 to the endless belts 250. In the example shown, the fasteners 204 are shown as bolts. However, in other embodiments, the slats 200 may be coupled to endless belts 250 via other coupling devices (e.g., adhesive, welds, etc.). By utilizing a plurality of individual slats, each slat 200 may move, at least slightly relative to the other slats 200. The individual relative movement of the slats 200 may provide flexibility to the running belt 30 to absorb at least part of the force imparted onto the running belt 30 by the user to enhance the user’s experience by reducing the impact stress that could otherwise be imparted to the user when running.

[0029] The endless belts 250 are disposed beneath the running surface 40 (i.e., in use, away from the user and running surface 40 / towards the interior of the base of the treadmill). The endless belts 250 are structured to engage with the pulleys 121, 141 of the front and rear shaft assemblies 120, 140 (e.g., rest upon, contact, be supported by, etc.) to enable movement of the running belt 30 relative to the frame 100 and the base 12. In this way, as the user moves along the running axis 18 on the treadmill 10 (or as the motor drives the front or rear shaft assemblies 120, 140 in the powered treadmill embodiment), the portion of the running belt 30 under the user moves in the opposite direction of the user. This keeps the user of the treadmill 10 on the running surface 40 while allowing the user to run, walk, jog, sidestep, etc. for long distances.

[0030] With the above in mind, reference is now made to FIGS. 4-11 that depict two slat configurations for a slatted running belt for the treadmill 10. FIGS. 4-9 depict a first embodiment of a base portion of an individual slat for the running belt 30 while FIGS. 10-11 depict a second embodiment of a base portion of an individual slat for the running belt 30. Each slat configuration may be used to form the running belt 30. Similar reference numbers are used to indicate similar features. Reference numbers that are different indicate structural differences between the first embodiment of the slat and the second embodiment of the slat.

[0031] Referring first to FIGS. 4-9, a first embodiment of a slat 200 for the running 30 is shown, according to an example embodiment. As shown, the slat 200 includes an engagement portion 216 that engages with a user and a base portion 220 located below the engagement portion 216. The engagement portion includes a top surface (engagement surface 218) that forms part of the running surface 40. As shown, the top surface of the engagement portion 216 is rectangular or substantially rectangular in shape. With reference to FIG. 4, the slat 200 includes a first (left) side 205 and a second (right) side 206, longitudinally opposite the first side 205. The slat 200 also includes a top width extending from a first end 208 to a second end 210. These characteristics generally define the user engagement portion 216 of the slat 200. As shown in FIG. 5, the slat 200 extends from a top end 212 to a bottom end 214 to define a height of the slat 200. In FIGS. 4-5, the slat 200 includes the user engagement portion 216 (i.e., part that a user contacts during use of the treadmill).

[0032] In use, the base portion 220 is disposed within, at least partly, the base of the treadmill and is generally not visible to users of the treadmill. In contrast, the engagement portion 216 may be contacted and/or is visible by a user of the treadmill. The engagement portion 216 includes an engagement surface 218. As shown, the engagement surface 218 is structured to provide a surface which a user experiences or engages with while using the treadmill 10. The engagement surface 218 may include any type of pattern or texture (e.g., uneven surface, substantially flat/even surface, cushiony versus substantially rigid and unable to deflect during use, etc.). In the example depicted, the surface 218 includes a honeycomb pattern that provides friction to the user to substantially prevent slippage between the user and the surface 218. The surface 218 of the engagement portion of the slat 200 is shown to extend an entire length 219 and width 221 of the slat 200. In other embodiments, less than an entire length and/or width of slat may be occupied by the surface 218 of the engagement portion. As shown, the length 219 of the slat 200 is approximately within the range of 10-30 inches, the width 221 is approximately within the range of 1-3 inches, and the height 234 is approximately within the range of 0.8-3.0 inches. In some embodiments, the length 219 is approximately 22 inches or 55 centimeters, the width 221 is approximately 2.3 inches, and the height 234 is approximately 1.6 inches. In other embodiments, the length 219 is approximately 17 inches or (43 centimeters). However, it should be understood that the relative dimensions may vary from configuration to configuration, such that these values should be considered to be exemplary only and non-limiting.

[0033] The engagement portion 216 and base portion 220 may be formed from a variety of materials. As shown, the engagement portion 216 and the base portion 220 are formed from two different materials. In the example shown, the engagement portion 216 is an over-molded part, piece, or component disposed on and coupled to the base portion 220. The over-mold engagement portion 216 may be made of thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), sometimes referred to as a thermoplastic rubber, such as a thermoplastic vulcanite (TPV), a thermoplastic polyamide (TP A), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), or any other type of TPE. The base portion 220 may be made of or constructed from a variety of polymers or composites (e.g., a polymer combined with another material (to introduce variable material properties) such as glass fiber reinforced Polypropylene (PP)). In one example, the material may be 20, 30, 40, 50, or 60% glass fiber content (percent by weight) reinforced PP. In the example shown, the slat 200 is characterized by being constructed from predominately non-metal materials (except for the fasteners 200).

The base portion 220 is formed from a plastic-based materials while the engagement portion 216 is formed from a rubber-based material. By avoiding metallic materials, the overall weight of the slat 200 may be comparably less than slats utilizing, for example, metallic base portions. As a result, Applicant has determined that the running belt constructed from these slats may have relatively faster acceleration characteristics compared to conventional slatted running belts. Additionally, the primarily composite or plastic-based slat 200 provides more cushioning for a user thereby improving user experience compared to tradition metal-based slats.

[0034] Referring more particularly now to the base portion 220 (also referred to as a support, support structure, lower or bottom part, base), the base portion 220 acts as a support structure for the engagement portion 216. The base portion 220 includes a pair of flanges 222 (also referred to as first and second flanges), integral fasteners 204 disposed in the flanges 222, and a central rib 224 (also referred to as a web, beam, or spine) that extends longitudinally between the flanges 222. With reference to FIGS. 5-6, the first flange 222 is located proximate a first side 205 of the slat 200 and the second flange 222 is located proximate a second side 206 of the slat 200. As shown, the flanges 222 may be a portion of the base portion 220 with relatively small height as compared to the center of the slat 200. [0035] Each of the flanges 222 includes one or more integral fasteners 204. In example shown, each flange 222 includes two integral fasteners. The “integral” nature of the fasteners 204 to the base portion 220 may be described as follows. The fasteners 204 may be a separate component relative to the base portion 220. The flanges 222 define holes, openings, or apertures that each receive a fastener 204. In one embodiment, threads are disposed in the holes to rotatably couple to the fastener. In another embodiment, an interference-fit relationship is provided between the fastener and the associated hole in the flange. In yet another embodiment, an adhesive (e.g., glue, epoxy, etc.) is used to retain the fastener in the hole. The adhesive may be used in combination with the thread or interference-type relationships described above. In other embodiments, a different joining mechanism or process for the fastener 204 to the flange and base portion 220 may be employed. In each configuration and upon joining, the fastener 204 is securably held to the base portion 220. This securable retention may be reversible (e.g., the threads allow the fastener to couple to the base portion 220 and be removed from the base portion) or irreversible (e.g., the cured adhesive functions to bond the fastener to the base portion 220 in a permanent manner). In either configuration and upon assembly, the fastener and the base portion 220 may be considered an “integral” component (e.g., a one or single piece component). With this integral construction, the fastener is fixed to the flange 222 and the base portion 220 and the fastener 204 may be considered a unitary component. Beneficially, this construction eases attachment and handling of the slat 200. Technicians and assembly-persons do not need to hold a fastener, such as a bolt, plus the slat and endless belt to attach the slat to the endless belt (e.g., non-integral fasteners may present a potential for losing or misplacing the fasteners). This arrangement may minimize errors and streamline assembly.

[0036] In the example shown, each of the integral fasteners 204 are structured as bolts that couple to a nut (e.g., lock nut or other type of nut). In this way, a part of the endless belt is sandwiched between the nut and base portion 220 to hold the slat 200 to the endless belt. In some arrangements, one or more washers, such as a lock washer, as well as adhesive (e.g., Loctite) may also be used to aid coupling of the slat 200 to the endless belt. In other embodiments, at least one of the fasteners may be of a different structural arrangement than the remaining fasteners. For example, at least one of the integral fasteners may be a pin that is in an interference-type relationship with a hole of the endless belt. In this relationship, the interference-type relationship still functions to hold the slat relatively securely to the endless belt. [0037] In operation and via the fasteners 204, each of the flanges 222 (and in turn the base portion 220 and slat 200) is configured to couple to one of the endless belts 250. In particular, the flange 222 on the first end 205 of the slat 200 couples to the endless belt 250 on the first side of the running belt 30 and the flange 222 on the second end 206 of the slat 200 couples to the endless belt 250 on the second side of the running belt 30 via the integral fasteners 204 in each of the flanges 222. The endless belt 250 may include one or more holes or apertures that receive the fasteners 204. After the fasteners are received in the holes or apertures, a coupling device, such as a nut described above, may be rotatably attached to the fastener to securably hold the slat 200 to the endless belt 250.

[0038] Referring more particularly to FIGS. 8-9, the rib 224 of the base portion 220 is shown in more detail. The rib 224 (e.g., web, longitudinal rib, etc.) projects from a top part of the base portion downward to interconnect with a bottom flange 228 proximate the bottom end 214 of the slat 200. The rib 224 extends longitudinally between or substantially between the flanges 222. Further, the rib 224 is located in the transverse (width) middle or approximate middle of the slat 200. As shown in FIGS. 4-7, the height of the rib 224 varies across the length of the slat 200.

The variance in height creates a smooth contour, which tapers from a smallest relative height of the rib 224 on the opposing sides 205, 206 of the slat 200 proximate the flanges 222 to a greatest relative height of the rib 224 disposed at or substantially at the longitudinal middle of the slat 200. In this example, a smooth and consistent (i.e., not jagged or broken) contour of the rib 224 is provided. By including the rib 224 with a varying height, the slat 200 provides for additional support and rigidity where it is needed most (in the middle of the slat). This area is most likely to experience impact forces from a user during a use of a treadmill. Further and by varying the height of the rib 224, the material usage for the rib 224 may be minimalized. For example, if the height of the rib 224 were constant (e.g., the same height across the length of the slat 200, no taper), the slat 200 would require additional material.

[0039] With reference to FIG. 8, a sectional view along line 8-8 of the slat 200 is shown, according to an example embodiment. As depicted, the rib 224 forms a flange with the top of the base portion proximate the engagement portion. This flange is shown as reference number 226. While called out as a flange, the flange is the top or upper part of the base portion 220 that interfaces with the engagement portion 216. In other alternate embodiments, an additional structure or member may be disposed between this upper part and the rib 224 to form the flange. The flange nomenclature is used for clarity to characterize the interaction of the rib 224 and upper part of the base portion 220. The flange 226 is disposed between the rib 224 and the engagement portion 216. In this way, a top surface of the flange 226 is in direct contact with the engagement portion 216. Being the top of the base portion, the flange 226 has a width that substantially corresponds with the engagement portion 216 width to support the engagement portion, for example such that a perimeter of the flange 226 is substantially coextensive with a perimeter of the engagement portion 216.

[0040] The flange 226 is shown to include multiple, rounded, steps 227 between and interconnecting to an underside of the flange 226 (proximate the rib 224) and a top surface of the flange 226 (proximate the engage portion 216). The rounded steps 227 provide additional surface area between the flange 226 and the engagement portion 216. Because the engagement portion 216 and the base portion 220 (which includes the flange 226) may be formed of two separate materials that couple together to form the slat 200 (e.g., via an over-molding manufacturing process), additional surface area formed by the rounded steps 227 may provide additional contact area to increase the joining of the over-mold engagement portion 216 and the base portion 220 to increase an overall durability of the slat 200.

[0041] The rib 224 is interconnected with a bottom flange 228 that extends outward and away from the rib 224. The flange 228 is disposed below the rib 224 (i.e., a distance away from the engagement portion 216) proximate the bottom end 214 of the slat 200. Because the height of the rib 224 changes across the length of the slat 200, the position of the bottom flange 228 also changes across the length of the slat 200 such that the flange 228 is at least partially arcuate in shape (see FIG. 6). As shown, the bottom flange 228 has a variable width along the length of the slat 200 in which the largest width is proximate the first and second ends 205, 206 while the narrowest width is at or near the longitudinal center. By varying the width, the flange 228 provides for torsional support along the length of the slat 200 while requiring minimal excess material. In other embodiments, the width of the flange 228 is consistent across the length of the rib 224. In some embodiments, the top flange 226 has a larger width than the bottom flange 228 proximate the middle (lengthwise) of the slat 200.

[0042] As the rib 224, the top flange 226, and the bottom flange 228 extend to the left side 205 and the right side 206 of the slat 200, the height of the rib 224 continues to decrease such that the rib 224, the top flange 226, and the bottom flange 228 essentially combine or merge to form the flanges 222 (see FIG. 5 and FIG. 7) at terminal ends of the rib 224. To merge, the bottom flange 228 curves as the height of the rib 224 changes and eventually meets the top flange 226 at the left side 205 and the right side 206 of the slat 200. In this way, each of the rib 224, the top flange 226, and the bottom flange 228, at the first (left) side 205 and the second (right) side 206 of the slat 200, become indiscernible, and the flanges 222 are formed.

[0043] When the rib 224, the top flange 226, and the bottom flange 228 are discernable (e.g., proximate the middle of the slat 200), the rib 224, the top flange 226, and the bottom flange 228 form an I-shaped cross section (see FIG. 8). Minor additions to the I-shape (e.g., a projecting bump on the web, a rounded comers, etc.) are still considered to be I-shaped within this disclosure. Advantageously, the I-shaped cross section of the base portion 220 accommodates for bending along the length of the slat 200, while resisting bending along the width and torsion along the length of the slat 200. This is beneficial to minimize shear stress throughout the slat 200. As a result, the I-shaped cross section of the base portion 220 provides rigidity, support, and improved durability to the slat 200, while minimizing the amount of material required in the base portion 220 and thereby making the slat 200 relatively lightweight.

[0044] Referring now to FIG. 9, a sectional view of the slat 200 along line 9-9 is shown. As depicted, the base portion 220 further includes a plurality of gussets 230 projecting outward and away from the rib 224 (i.e., in a transverse or width direction relative to a longitudinal length of the slat). In the example shown, the gussets 230 have a triangular shape. In one embodiment, the number of gussets 230 depends on the length 219 of the slat 200 such that if the length 219 is approximately 17 inches, the base portion 220 includes six gussets 230 and if the length 219 is approximately 22 inches, the base portion includes ten gussets 230. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 5, the base portion 220 includes six gussets 230. In other embodiments, the base portion 220 may include more or less gussets 230 (e.g., 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10 or more gussets 230). Additionally, in other embodiments, the gussets 230 may have a different shape (e.g., trapezoidal).

[0045] As shown, the slat 200 includes a substantial mirror shape. In this way, a gusset 230 on one side of the rib 224 corresponds with a gusset 230 on the other side of the rib 224 in alignment with each other. In this way, the gussets 230 along one side of the rib 224 are positioned in the same or substantially the same longitudinal positions as the gussets along the other side of the rib 224. As shown, the gussets 230 are formed integrally with the rib 224, the top flange 226, and the bottom flange 228 and are made of the same material as the rib 224, the top flange 226, and the bottom flange 228. In other embodiments and as described herein, the gussets 230 may be of a different material and coupled to the one or more of these parts (e.g., via adhesive).

[0046] As also shown, the gussets 230 may extend between the top flange 226 and the bottom flange 228 and include a taper in width such that the gussets 230 decrease in size from a largest relative width disposed at or near the top flange 226 to a smallest relative width disposed at or near the bottom flange 228. Additionally, each of the gussets 230 may have different maximum widths (and include different tapers in width) such that the center gusset 230 (in the longitudinal center of the slat 200) may have the largest maximum width and the end gussets 230 (i.e., the gussets 230 closest to the left side 205 and the right side 206) may have the smallest relative maximum width. The maximum width refers to the maximum distance that the gusset extends outward and away from the rib 224. As such, the maximum width of the gussets 230 may decrease the closer the gussets 230 are to the left side 205 and the right side 206 of the slat 200.

[0047] The gussets 230 may provide additional torsion resistance along the length of the slat 200, improve bending resistance, and improve shock absorption for the base portion 220. The gussets 230 are relatively wide and therefore absorb the shock and impact force of the user as the user is using the treadmill 10. As a result, the gussets 30 provide for a more pleasurable and comfortable running surface to the user of the treadmill 10.

[0048] In the example shown and when the fasteners 204 are coupled to the base portion 220, the base portion 220 is of unitary construction (i.e., a single piece component). In some embodiment, with the exception of the fasteners 204 that are mechanically bonded to the base portion 220, flanges 222, the rib 224, flange 226, flange 228, and gussets 230 may be formed from the same material. As mentioned above, the base portion 220 may be made of or constructed from a variety of polymers or composites (e.g., a polymer combined with another material (to introduce variable material properties) such as glass fiber reinforced Polypropylene (PP)). In one example, the material may be 20, 30, 40, 50, or 60% glass fiber content (percent by weight) reinforced PP. In this way, the base portion 220 (without the fasteners 204) may be constructed from a mold (e.g., injection molded). By being of unitary construction, the overall rigidity and durability may be improved because additional joining means and associated joints are avoided. In other alternate embodiments, one or more of the flanges 222, rib 224, flange 226, flange 228, and gussets 230 may be coupled together to form the base portion 220 (e.g., the gussets 230 may utilize an adhesive or a weld to couple them to the rib 224).

[0049] Referring now to FIG. 10, a base portion 320 of a slat 300 for the running belt 30 is shown according to a second example embodiment. The slat 300 may be similar to the slat 200 (and therefore similar reference numerals may be used for similar components) but includes ten gussets 230 (as compared to the six gussets 230 of the base portion 220). Additionally, the base portion 320 of the slat 300 includes multiple crowned portions 324.

[0050] As shown, the base portion 320 includes at least one crown portion (e.g., a projection that may transform a surface from substantially planar to non-planar). The base portion 320 includes one positively crowned portion 324 projecting from the top flange 226 proximate the longitudinal middle of the base portion 220, and one crowned portion 324 projecting from the flange 222 proximate the left side the base portion 320, and one positively crowned portion 324 projecting from the flange 222 proximate the right side of the base portion 320. In this example, three crown portions are included with the base portion 320. In other embodiments, more or less crowns are included. The “positive” nomenclature indicates that the crown is projecting away from the associated surface or structure (e.g., the center crown 324 projects upward and away from the top of the base portion 320; convex).

[0051] The positively crowned portions 324 are shown to have a rounded or arcuate shape. Thus, the crowned portion 324 may have specific radii of curvature. In one embodiment, each of the crowned portions 324 has the same radii of curvature. In another embodiment, at least one crown portion has a different radii of curvature relative to the other crown portions. For example, the radius of curvature of the positively crowned portion projecting 324 from the flange 222 proximate the left side of the base portion 320 may be approximately 7.5 inches, the radius of curvature of the positively crowned portion 324 projecting from the top flange 226 proximate the longitudinal middle of the base portion 220 may be approximately 80 inches, and the radius of curvature of the positively crowned portion 324 projecting from the flange 222 proximate the right side of the base portion 320 may be approximately 7.5 inches.

[0052] The relative length of the positive crown portions may be variable. In the example shown, the crown portions 324 disposed on the flanges 222 occupy most of the space on the flanges 222. The crown portion 324 in the longitudinal middle of the base portion 320 occupies approximately one-third of the longitudinal space on this section between the flanges 222. In other embodiments, the relative length and width of the crown portions 324 may differ.

[0053] Advantageously and in use, the positively crowned portions 324 receive a compressive force from the user of the treadmill 10 rather than tensile force which provides for additional strength for the base portion 320 and durability for the slat 200. Furthermore, the positively crowned portions 324 generate additional surface area on the top of the base portion 320 which provides for a better, stronger, coupling between the engagement portion (not shown) of the slat 300 and the base portion 320.

[0054] Referring now to FIG. 11, a bottom view of the base portion 320 is shown. As depicted and as described herein, the bottom flange 228 includes a taper in width such that the largest relative width of the flange 228 is disposed proximate the flanges 222 and the largest relative width of the flange 228 is disposed proximate the middle (lengthwise) of the base portion 320. Furthermore, the taper in the width of the bottom flange 228 is smooth. As described herein, by including a taper in width, the flange 228 provides for torsional support along the length of the slat 200 while requiring minimal material.

[0055] Referring now to FIG. 12, test data corresponding to the base portion 220 of the slat 200 is shown. As depicted, the test data includes cyclical test data 404, deflection test data 408, and ultimate strength test data 412. The test data 404, 408, and 412 provides an indication of the improvements in strength and durability from the base portion 220 of the slat 200. The tests (from which the test data 404, 408, and 412 was generated) compared the base portion 220 to other slat base portions, made of, for example, aluminum.

[0056] The cyclical test data 404 compares the number of cycles of force (proximate the middle) the base portion 220 was able to withstand before failure, and provides an indication of the durability of the slat 200 during use on the treadmill 10. Further, the cyclical test data 404 includes data corresponding to the base portion 220 (“D8716”) and data corresponding to other base portions of slats made of common materials in the art (e.g., aluminum and Grivory®). As shown, the cyclical test data 404 indicates the base portion 220 was able to withstand 117,732 loads of 600 pounds of force (lbf) of force on average before failure, which is approximately 3.5 times the number of average loads of force the base portion made of aluminum was able to withstand and approximately fifteen times the number of average of force the base portion made of Grivory® was able to withstand. [0057] The deflection test data 408 compares the average deflection of the base portion (proximate the middle) based on the force applied to the base portion and may provide an indication of the support the slat 200 provides to the user as they run on the treadmill 10.

Further, the deflection test data 408 includes data corresponding to the base portion 220 and data corresponding to a base portion made of other common materials. As shown, the deflection test data 408 indicates the base portion 220 deflected less than the common material base portion for every single force applied to the base portions.

[0058] The ultimate strength test data 412 compares the average force that caused failure in the various base portions and provides an indication of the strength of the slat 200 during use on the treadmill 10. Further, the ultimate strength test data 412 includes data corresponding to the base portion 220 (“D8716”) and data corresponding to other base portions of slats made of common materials in the art (e.g., aluminum and Grivory®). As shown, the ultimate strength test data 412 indicates the base portion 220 was able to withstand 1240.7 lbf on average before failure, which is stronger than the other base portions tested, besides the 43 centimeter aluminum base portion.

[0059] Referring now to FIG. 13, test data corresponding to the base portion 320 of the slat 300 is shown. As depicted, the test data includes cyclical test data 504, deflection test data 508, and ultimate strength test data 512. The test data 504, 508, and 512 provides an indication of the improvements in strength and durability from the gussets 230, the positively crowned portions 324, the I-shaped cross-section of the base portion 320, and the material of the base portion 320. The tests (from which the test data 504, 508, and 512 was generated) compared the base portion 320 to other base portions made of common materials in the art (e.g., aluminum) that did not include the gussets 230, the positively crowned portions 324, or the I-shaped cross-section.

[0060] The cyclical test data 504 compares the number of cycles of force (proximate the middle) the base portion 320 was able to withstand before failure, and provides an indication of the durability of the slat 200 during use on the treadmill 10. Further, the cyclical test data 504 includes data corresponding to the base portion 320 (“D8700/D8702 (1/1/2020) mold”) and data corresponding to other base portions of slats made of common materials in the art (e.g., aluminum and Grivory®). As shown, the cyclical test data 504 indicates the base portion 320 was able to withstand 241,759 loads of 600 pounds of force (lbf) of force on average before failure, which is approximately seven times the number of average loads of force the base portion made of aluminum was able to withstand and approximately 31.5 times the number of average of force the base portion made of Grivory® was able to withstand.

[0061] The deflection test data 508 compares the average deflection of the base portions (proximate the middle) based on the force applied to the base portions and includes data corresponding to the base portion 220 and may provide an indication of the support the slat 200 provides to the user as they run on the treadmill 10. Further, the deflection test data 508 includes data corresponding to the base portion 320 and data corresponding to other base portions of slats made of common materials in the art. As shown, the deflection test data 508 indicates the base portion 220 deflected less than the common material base portion for a single force applied to the base portions.

[0062] The ultimate strength test data 512 compares the average force that caused failure in the base portions and provides an indication of the strength of the slat 200 during use on the treadmill 10. Further, the ultimate strength test data 512 includes data corresponding to the base portion 320 (“D8700/D8702”) and data corresponding to a base portion made of common materials. As shown, the ultimate strength test data 512 indicates the base portion 320 was able to withstand 1298.4 lbf on average before failure, which is stronger the common material base portion.

[0063] While the bulk of the discussion herein is focused on training and physical fitness, this specific use-case example is not meant to be limiting. In this regard, persons skilled in the art will understand that all of the structures and methods described herein are equally applicable in at least medical or therapeutic applications as well.

[0064] It should be noted that the term “exemplary” and variations thereof, as used herein to describe various embodiments, are intended to indicate that such embodiments are possible examples, representations, or illustrations of possible embodiments (and such terms are not intended to connote that such embodiments are necessarily extraordinary or superlative examples). It is to be understood that the disclosure disclosed herein is not limited to the details of construction and the arrangement of the components set forth in the description or illustrated in the drawings. The disclosure is capable of other embodiments or being practiced or carried out in various ways. It is also to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. It is also important to note that although only a few embodiments of the enclosure assembly have been described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter recited in the disclosed embodiments. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure as defined in the disclosed embodiments. Additionally, any element disclosed in one embodiment may be incorporated or utilized with any other embodiment disclosed herein. Although only one example of an element from one embodiment that can be incorporated or utilized in another embodiment has been described above, it should be appreciated that other elements of the various embodiments may be incorporated or utilized with any of the other embodiments disclosed herein.

[0065] For the purposes of this disclosure, the terms “approximately” and “substantially” or other like terms are intended to be understood and broadly interpreted by those of ordinary skill in the art. For example, when the disclosure defines a length or a width as approximately equal to a value or substantially equal to a value, these terms are intended to be broadly defined and interpreted by those of ordinary skill in the art. For example, these terms may be a predefined value (e.g., approximately may mean plus-or-minus X amount or percentage). As another example, these terms may refer to a commonly accepted tolerance level. As still another example, these terms may refer to a statistical determination based on a series of samples. Similarly, the terms “match” or “substantially match” are also meant to be broadly interpreted. Accordingly, in one example, match or substantial match may refer to an exact match. In another example, match or substantial matching refers to a dimension or value being within a predefined tolerance, amount, standard, or an accepted qualitative measurement technique. In this regard and as utilized herein with respect to structural features (e.g., to describe shape, size, orientation, direction, relative position, etc.), the terms “approximately,” “about,”

“substantially,” and similar terms are meant to cover minor variations in structure that may result from, for example, the manufacturing or assembly process and are intended to have a broad meaning in harmony with the common and accepted usage by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the subject matter of this disclosure pertains. Accordingly, these terms should be interpreted as indicating that insubstantial or inconsequential modifications or alterations of the subject matter described and claimed are considered to be within the scope of the disclosure as recited in the appended claims.

[0066] As used herein, the term “coupled” means the joining of two members directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary (e.g., permanent or fixed) or moveable (e.g., removable or releasable). Such joining may be achieved with the two members coupled directly to each other, with the two members coupled to each other using a separate intervening member and any additional intermediate members coupled with one another, or with the two members coupled to each other using an intervening member that is integrally formed as a single unitary body with one of the two members. If “coupled” or variations thereof are modified by an additional term (e.g., directly coupled), the generic definition of “coupled” provided above is modified by the plain language meaning of the additional term (e.g., “directly coupled” means the joining of two members without any separate intervening member), resulting in a narrower definition than the generic definition of “coupled” provided above. Such coupling may be mechanical, electrical, or fluidic.

[0067] References herein to the positions of elements (e.g., “top,” “bottom,” “above,” “below”) are merely used to describe the orientation of various elements in the FIGURES. It should be noted that the orientation of various elements may differ according to other exemplary embodiments, and that such variations are intended to be encompassed by the present disclosure.

[0068] Although the figures and description may illustrate a specific order of method steps, the order of such steps may differ from what is depicted and described, unless specified differently above. Also, two or more steps may be performed concurrently or with partial concurrence, unless specified differently above.