ABSTRACT

EXAMPLE: A treadmill is to be built into a level stage deck. A commercial grade conveyor belt material 3.0 ft wide and weighing 0.87 psf will be used to create a moving surface 20 ft long. The drive and idler rollers are made from pipe 6.625″ in diameter, and they have calculated moments of inertia of each. Beneath the walkable portion of the treadmill is a plywood support surface covered with UHMW polyethylene to reduce friction (with a kinetic coefficient of friction between belt and plastic being ). The 5 mph top speed of the treadmill is reached in as little as 1.5 seconds, and 4 actors at most will be on it while it is running. Ignore any friction in the bearings supporting the rollers. What power does this effect need?