System and method for analyzing athletic activity

Abstract

A system for analyzing athletic activity may be used for an article of footwear including a sensor system having a plurality of force sensors configured to sense forces applied by a foot of a user, an electronic module included in the article of footwear, and a plurality of sensor leads connecting the sensors to the electronic module, wherein the electronics module collects data based on the force input from the sensor and communicates the data. The system also includes an electronic device in communication with the electronic module. The electronic device includes a processor that receives data from the electronic module, compares the data to a foot-touched template corresponding to a desired foot-touched pattern to determine whether there is a deviation from the foot-touched template, and generates, upon determining that there is a deviation from the desired foot-touched pattern, a degree to a user indicating that it may also include such a deviation.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of an invention application with an application date of January 31, 2014, application number 202011124310.6 and invention name “System and method for analyzing sports activities”.

[0002] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0003] This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 757,417, filed on February 1, 2013, which is incorporated herein by reference and made a part hereof. Technical Field

[0004] The present invention generally relates to systems, devices and methods for analyzing athletic activity, and more particularly, to systems, devices and methods for providing instructional feedback to a user based on the analysis of athletic activity, which may utilize data input from a sensor system incorporated into an article of footwear or other article of clothing. Background Art

[0005] Known systems for analyzing sports activities utilize data collected from sports activities. Such data can be analyzed and provided to users in many different forms and formats, including instructions through performance indicators. However, the use of such sports activity data and indicators need not be restricted. As an example, such data and performance indicators are usually limited in providing active real-time feedback and / or forward-looking feedback to clients. Thus, although some systems for analyzing sports activities provide many advantageous feature lists, they have certain limitations. The systems, devices and methods disclosed herein seek to overcome some of these limitations and other defects of the prior art, and provide new features that were previously unavailable. Summary of the invention

[0006] The present invention generally relates to a system for analyzing sports activities, which is used for footwear including a sensor system, the sensor system having a force sensor engaged with the footwear and configured to sense the force applied by the user's foot, an electronic module contained in the footwear, and a plurality of sensor leads connecting the sensor to the electronic module, wherein the electronic module is configured to collect data and transmit data based on the force input from the sensor. The system also includes an electronic device that communicates with the electronic module. The electronic device includes a processor that is configured to receive data from the electronic module, compare the data with a foot contact template corresponding to an expected foot contact pattern to determine whether there is a deviation from the foot contact template, and generate an indication for the user when it is determined that there is a deviation from the expected foot contact pattern. The indication may further include a degree of deviation from the foot contact template. The indication may be visual, auditory, tactile, and / or other types of indications.

[0007] According to one aspect, it is determined that there is a deviation if the degree of the deviation is determined to exceed a predetermined threshold.

[0008] According to another aspect, generating the indication includes transmitting a signal to the second electronic device, wherein the signal is configured to cause the second electronic device to generate the indication.

[0009] According to a further aspect, comparing the data to a foot strike template includes detecting a foot strike pattern based on the data analysis and comparing the foot strike pattern to the foot strike template. In one embodiment, a plurality of sensors are located at different locations on the article of footwear, and the foot strike pattern is detected based on a sequence of forces sensed by the sensors and / or levels of forces sensed by the sensors.

[0010] According to another aspect, the system further includes a GPS module, the GPS module being configured to detect the location of the user, wherein the GPS module communicates with the electronic device. The GPS module may be located in the electronic device, in the electronic module, or in other locations. The electronic device is further configured to generate an indication of the user's location based on communication with the GPS module. In one embodiment, the GPS module is located in the electronic module, and the electronic device is further configured to receive location information related to the user's location from the electronic module and generate an indication of the user's location for the user based on the location information. In another embodiment, the electronic device may be further configured to receive environmental information related to the user's location, which may be obtained by communicating with an external server or other device, and to communicate the environmental information to the user, such as by video and / or sound display. Such environmental information may be used to provide a recommended route for the user based on the environmental information. In a further embodiment, the electronic device may be further configured to receive terrain information related to the user's location and modify the foot contact template based on the terrain information. Such terrain information may also be obtained by communicating with an external server or other device.

[0011] According to a further aspect, the electronics may change the foot strike template after a set amount of usage, such as a set amount of time or a set amount of running.

[0012] Additional aspects of the invention relate to a system for analyzing athletic activity that can be used in conjunction with a sensor system that includes a plurality of force sensors and an electronic device in communication with the sensor system, the force sensors being configured to engage with an article of footwear and being configured to sense forces applied by a user's foot. The electronic device is configured to receive data generated by the sensor system, analyze the data to determine whether there is a deviation from a desired foot contact pattern, and generate an indication for the user when it is determined that there is a deviation from the desired foot contact pattern, wherein the indication includes at least one of a visual indication, an audible indication, and a tactile indication. Any of the various aspects described above can be used in conjunction with such a system.

[0013] A further aspect of the present invention relates to a system for analyzing sports activities, which can be used in combination with an article of clothing including a sensor system, the sensor system having a plurality of sensors engaged with the article of clothing and configured to sense a biomechanical parameter of a user when the user is in biomechanical motion. The system may also include an electronic device that communicates with the sensor system. The electronic device is configured to receive data generated by the sensor system, analyze the data to determine whether there is a deviation from a desired biomechanical motion pattern in the biomechanical motion of the user, and generate an indication to the user when determining the deviation of the operation from the desired biomechanical motion pattern. The data analysis may include comparing the data with a biomechanical motion template corresponding to the desired biomechanical motion pattern to determine whether there is a deviation from the biomechanical motion template; in addition, the indication may include an indication of the degree of deviation from the biomechanical motion template. The foot contact motion as described above is a biomechanical motion pattern that can be analyzed by the system. Any of the various aspects described above may be combined with such a system, and it should be understood that the system may be changed for different sensor systems and different articles of clothing.

[0014] A further aspect of the present invention relates to a system for analyzing sports activities, which can be used in conjunction with an article of clothing including a sensor system, the sensor system having a plurality of sensors engaged with the article of clothing and configured to sense a biomechanical parameter of a user when the user is in biomechanical motion. The system can further include a GPS module, the GPS module being configured to detect the location of the user, wherein the GPS module communicates with an electronic device. The electronic device is configured to receive data generated by the sensor system, compare the data with a biomechanical motion template corresponding to a desired biomechanical motion pattern to determine whether there is a deviation from the biomechanical motion template, and generate an indication for the user when it is determined that a deviation from the desired biomechanical motion pattern exists. The electronic device is also configured to receive the location of the user from the GPS module and receive terrain information related to the location of the user and modify the biomechanical motion template based on the terrain information.

[0015] Other aspects of the invention relate to a method that involves performing some or all of the system functions described above, including functions performed by an electronic device, electronic module, or other device as described above. Such a method may be computer-assisted. Some aspects of the invention may similarly relate to a physical and / or non-transitory computer-readable medium containing computer-executable instructions configured to cause an electronic device (or a processor of such a device) to perform some or all of the functions of the system as described above.

[0016] Still further features and advantages of the present invention will be understood from the following description taken in conjunction with the following drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] For a more complete understanding of the present invention, the present invention is described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0018] Figure 1 is a side view of the shoe;

[0019] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 An opposite side view of the shoe;

[0020] Figure 3 is a top perspective view of a sole of a shoe (with the upper removed and the foot contacting member folded aside) incorporating one embodiment of a sensor system configured for use in conjunction with aspects of the present invention;

[0021] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 a top perspective view of a sensor system and a shoe sole with the foot contacting members of the shoe removed and the electronics module removed;

[0022] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of an electronic module that can be used in a sensor system to communicate with an external electronic device;

[0023] Figure 6 yes Figure 3 A top view of an insert of a sensor system adapted to be positioned in a sole structure of an article of footwear for a right foot of a user;

[0024] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 A top view of an insert and similar sensor system suitable for use in a sole structure of an article of footwear for a user's left foot;

[0025] Figure 8 yes Figure 6 an exploded perspective view of the insert, showing the four different layers;

[0026] Fig. 9 is through Figure 3 A schematic circuit diagram of one embodiment of a circuit formed by components of a sensor system;

[0027] Fig.10 is a schematic diagram of a pair of shoes, each of which contains a sensor system and is in a network communication mode with an external device;

[0028] Fig.11 is a schematic diagram of a pair of shoes, each of which contains a sensor system and communicates with an external device in a "daisy chain" mode;

[0029] Fig.12 is a schematic diagram of a pair of shoes, each of which contains a sensor system and is in independent communication mode with an external device;

[0030] Fig.13 is a graph showing pressure versus resistance for one embodiment of a sensor according to aspects of the present invention.

[0031] Fig.14A is a perspective view of one embodiment of a housing and port for connecting to an electronic module, the electronic module being attached to an insert member;

[0032] Fig. 14B yes Fig.14A A cross-sectional view of a housing and a port;

[0033] Fig.15 is a perspective view of a module according to some aspects of the present invention;

[0034] Fig.16 yes Fig.15 A side view of a module;

[0035] Fig.17 is a front view of an article of clothing in the form of a shirt incorporating one embodiment of a sensor system configured for use in conjunction with aspects of the present invention;

[0036] Fig.18 a front view of an article of clothing in the form of pants incorporating one embodiment of a sensor system configured for use in conjunction with aspects of the present invention;

[0037] Fig.19 yes Fig.18 rear view of pants;

[0038] Fig. 20 is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of an article of footwear having a sensor system having an electronic module that communicates with an external electronic device;

[0039] Fig.21 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of an article of footwear having a sensor system that communicates with an external electronic device;

[0040] Fig. 22 is a perspective view of an insole for an article of footwear including another embodiment of a sensor system;

[0041] Fig.23A is along Fig. 22 The line 23-23 is intercepted Fig. 22 an enlarged cross-sectional view of a sensor of the sensor system;

[0042] Fig. 23B is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a sensor of another embodiment of a sensor system coupled to an insole for an article of footwear;

[0043] Fig.24is a flow chart of one embodiment of a method for analyzing sports activity using a template for biomechanical movement;

[0044] Fig.25 is a bar graph measuring maximum pressure at foot contact using four sensors at different locations on the article of footwear;

[0045] Fig.26 is a graph of pressure measured over time for foot contact using four sensors at different locations on an article of footwear, with the dashed line showing another embodiment of a foot contact template;

[0046] Fig. 27 is a graph of pressure measured over time for foot contact using four sensors at different locations on the shoe, with the uniform length dashed line showing Fig.25 The foot contact template is not uniformly fixed. The dotted line shows an embodiment of the middle foot contact template;

[0047] Fig.28 is a graph of activation of a binary type sensor over time for foot strike using four sensors at different locations on an article of footwear, with the dashed line showing another embodiment of a foot strike template;

[0048] Fig.29 is a front view of the electronic device having a graphic showing the force or impact of the foot contacting the ground; and

[0049] Fig.30 is a flow chart of one embodiment of a method for modifying a biomechanical motion template that can be used in conjunction with analysis of athletic activity. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0050] While the present invention is capable of embodiment in many different forms, preferred embodiments of the present invention are shown in the drawings and will be described herein, it being understood that this description is to be regarded as illustrative of the invention and should not be regarded as limiting the scope of the invention to the embodiments shown and described.

[0051] In general, systems and methods are provided for analyzing sports activities and biomechanical movements in such sports activities, which can be used in conjunction with a sensor system for sensing at least one parameter. The systems and methods can also provide instructional feedback to the user based on such analysis. The feedback provided to the user can include an indication that the user's biomechanical movements deviate from a desired biomechanical movement model, and the systems and methods can utilize a biomechanical movement template to compare with the biomechanical parameters sensed by the sensor system to determine such deviations. Various embodiments and features of such systems and methods are described below.

[0052] In one embodiment, the system can be used to provide instructional and / or other feedback to a user to help the user develop a specific foot strike pattern while running, walking, or otherwise exercising with the foot. Such a system can be used in conjunction with an article of footwear, such as a shoe, which is Figure 1-2 1 and generally designated by reference numeral 100. The shoe 100 may take many different forms, including, for example, various types of athletic shoes. In an exemplary embodiment, the shoe 100 generally includes a force and / or pressure sensor system 12 operatively connected to a universal communication port 14. As described in detail below, the sensor system 12 collects performance data related to the wearer of the shoe 100. By connecting to the universal communication port 14, a plurality of different users may access the performance data for a number of different purposes as described in detail below.

[0053] Shoe item 100 is displayed on Figure 1-2 1, including an upper 120 and a sole structure 130. For reference purposes described below, the shoe 100 can be divided into three general areas: a forefoot area 111, a midfoot area 112, and a heel area 113. Figure 1 Regions 111-113 are not intended to demarcate exact regions of shoe 100. Rather, regions 111-113 are intended to represent approximate regions of shoe 100 that provide a frame of reference during the following description. While regions 111-113 apply generally to shoe 100, references to regions 111-113 may also apply specifically to upper 120, sole structure 130, or various components included in and / or forming a portion of upper 120 or sole structure 130.

[0054] Further Figure 1 and 2As shown, the upper 120 is fixed to the sole structure 130 and defines a cavity or chamber for receiving a foot. For reference purposes, the upper 120 includes a lateral side 121, an opposite medial side 122 and an upper or instep area 123. The lateral side 121 is positioned to extend along the lateral side of the foot (i.e., the outside) and generally passes through each region 111-113. Similarly, the medial side 122 is positioned to extend along the opposite medial side of the foot (i.e., the inside) and generally passes through each region 111-113. The upper area 123 is positioned between the lateral side 121 and the medial side 122, to correspond to the upper surface or the instep area of ​​the foot. In the example shown, the upper area 123 includes a shoe opening 124 with a shoelace 125 or other desired closure mechanism, which utilizes a conventional method to change the upper 120 relative to the size of the foot, thereby adjusting the wearing of the shoe 100. The upper 120 also includes an ankle opening 126 that provides access for the foot to the cavity in the upper 120. Various materials can be used to construct the upper 120, including materials commonly used for uppers. Thus, the upper 120 can be formed, for example, with one or more portions of leather, artificial leather, natural or synthetic fabrics, polymer sheets, polymer foams, mesh fabrics, felt, nonwoven polymers, or rubber materials. The upper 120 can be formed with one or more of these materials, wherein the materials or portions thereof are sewn or bonded together, for example in a manner commonly known and used in the art.

[0055] The upper 120 may also include a heel element (not shown) and a toe element (not shown). The heel element, when present, may extend upward and along the inner surface of the upper 120 in the heel region 113 to enhance the comfort of the shoe 100. The toe element, when present, may be located in the forefoot region 111 and on the outer surface of the upper 120 to provide wear resistance, protect the wearer's toes, and assist in positioning the foot. In some embodiments, for example, one or both of the heel element and the toe element may not exist, or the heel element may be located on the outer surface of the upper 120. Although the configuration of the upper 120 described above is applicable to the shoe 100, the upper 120 may present any desired conventional or unconventional upper structure without departing from the present invention.

[0056] like Figure 3 As shown, sole structure 130 is secured to a lower surface of upper 120 and may have a generally conventional shape. Sole structure 130 may have a multi-component structure, such as a sole structure including midsole 131, outsole 132, and foot contacting member 133. Foot contacting member 133 is typically a thin, compressible member that may be positioned in a void in upper 120 and adjacent to a lower surface of the foot (or between upper 120 and midsole 131) to enhance the comfort of shoe 100. In various embodiments, foot contacting member 133 may be a sockliner, a strobel, an insole member, an inner bootie element, a sock, etc. Figure 3-4 In the illustrated embodiment, the foot contact member 133 is an insole member or insole. The term "foot contact member" as used herein does not necessarily imply direct contact with the user's foot, as other elements may interfere with direct contact. Instead, the foot contact member forms a portion of the inner surface of the foot receiving chamber of the footwear article. For example, the user may wear socks that interfere with the direct contact portion. As another example, the sensor system 12 may be incorporated into a footwear article designed to slide on a shoe or other footwear article, such as an outer boot element or a shoe covering. In such an article, the upper portion of the sole structure may be considered a foot contact member, even if it does not directly contact the user's foot. In some structures, the insole or insole may not be present, while in other embodiments, the shoe 100 may have a foot contact member positioned on top of the insole or insole.

[0057] Midsole member 131 can be or include impact attenuation member, and can include multiple members or elements in some embodiments.For example, midsole member 131 can be formed with polymer foam material, such as polyurethane, vinyl acetate or other materials (such as lightweight materials, phylite etc.), which compresses to attenuate the reaction force of ground or other contact surfaces during walking, running, jumping or other activities.In some exemplary structures according to the present invention, polymer foam material can encapsulate or include various elements, such as fluid-filled bladder or buffer, which enhances the comfort, motion control, stability and / or ground or other contact surface reaction force attenuation performance of shoe 100.In some other exemplary structures, midsole 131 can include additional elements, which compresses to attenuate ground or other contact surface reaction forces.For example, midsole 131 can include the element of column type, to help buffering and absorption.

[0058] In this illustrated exemplary shoe structure 100, the outsole 132 is secured to the lower surface of the midsole 131 and is formed of a wear-resistant material, such as rubber or a flexible synthetic material, such as polyurethane, which contacts the ground or other surface during walking or other activities. The material forming the outsole 132 may be made of a suitable material and / or textured to impart enhanced traction and slip resistance. Figure 1 and 2 The illustrated outsole 132 is shown as including a plurality of cutouts or cleats 136 on either or both sides of the outsole 132, but many other types of outsoles 132 having various types of patterns, contours, and other structures may be used in conjunction with the present invention. It should be understood that embodiments of the present invention may be used in conjunction with other types and configurations of shoes and other types of footwear and sole structures.

[0059] Figure 1-4 An exemplary embodiment of a shoe 100 incorporating a sensor system 12 according to the present invention is shown, and Figure 3-8An exemplary embodiment of a sensor system 12 is shown. The sensor system 12 may include any features or embodiments of the sensor system described in U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 401,918, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety and forms a part of this document. The sensor system 12 includes an insert member 37 having a force and / or pressure sensor assembly 13 connected thereto. It should be understood that the use of the insert member 37 is one embodiment, and footwear articles including different types of sensor systems 12 can be used in conjunction with the motion analysis system 400 and method 500 described herein. It should also be understood that the insert 37 can have many different configurations, shapes, and structures, and include sensors 16 of different numbers and / or configurations, and different insertion structures or peripheral shapes.

[0060] The insert member 37 is configured to be positioned to contact the sole structure 130 of the shoe 100, and in one embodiment, the insert member 37 is configured to be positioned below the foot contact member 133 and above the top of the midsole member 131 and in a generally facing relationship. The sensor assembly 13 includes a plurality of sensors 16, and a communication or output port (e.g., electrically connected via conductors) that communicates with the sensor assembly 13. The port 14 is configured for communicating data received from the sensors 16, for example, to an electronic module (also referred to as an electronic control unit) 22, as described below. The port 14 and / or the module 22 may be configured to communicate with an external device, also described below. Figure 3-8 In the illustrated embodiment, the system 12 has four sensors 16: a first sensor 16a at the big toe (first phalanx or hallux) area of ​​the shoe, sensors 16b-c at the forefoot area of ​​the shoe (including a second sensor 16b at the first metatarsal head area and a third sensor 16c at the fifth metatarsal head area), and a fourth sensor 16d at the heel. These areas of the foot typically experience the greatest degree of pressure during exercise. Each sensor 16 is configured to detect pressure applied to the sensor 16 by the user's foot. The sensors communicate with the port 14 via sensor leads, which may be wire leads and / or another electrical conductor or suitable communication medium. For example, at Figure 3-8 In an embodiment of the present invention, the sensor lead 18 can be a conductive medium that is printed on the insert member 37, such as a silver-based ink or other metal ink, such as a copper and / or tin-based ink. In one embodiment, the lead 18 can alternatively be configured as a thin wire. In other embodiments, the lead 18 can be connected to the foot contact member 133, the midsole member 131, or another member of the sole structure 130.

[0061] Other embodiments of the sensor system 12 may include sensors 16 of different numbers or configurations, and typically include at least one sensor 16. For example, in one embodiment, the system 12 includes a greater number of sensors, and in another embodiment, the system 12 includes two sensors, one in the heel and one in the forefoot of the shoe 100. As another example, the system 12 may include one or more sensors in other locations of the shoe 100, such as being connected to the upper in one embodiment (not shown), such as for measuring tangential / shear forces, kicking forces, etc. In addition, the sensor 16 may communicate with the port 14 in different ways, including any known type of wired or wireless communication, including Bluetooth and near-field communication. A pair of shoes may be provided with a sensor system 12 in each shoe of the pair, and it should be understood that the paired sensor systems may operate in coordination or may operate independently of each other, and the sensor systems in each shoe may or may not communicate with each other. The communication of the sensor system 12 is described below. It should be understood that the sensor system 12 can be provided with computer programs / algorithms to control the collection and storage of data (e.g., pressure data from the interaction of a user's foot with the ground or other contact surface), and these programs / algorithms can be stored in and / or executed by the sensor 16, module 22, and / or external device 110.

[0062] The sensor system 12 may be positioned in a variety of configurations within the sole 130 of the shoe 100. Figure 3-4 In the example shown, the port 14, sensor 16, and leads 18 may be positioned between the midsole 131 and the foot contacting member 133, such as by positioning an insert member 37 between the midsole 131 and the foot contacting member 133. In one embodiment, the insert member 37 may be connected to one or both of the midsole and the foot contacting member 133. A cavity or well 135 may be positioned in the midsole 131 and / or the foot contacting member 133 for receiving the electronic module 22, as described below, and in one embodiment, the port 14 may be accessible from the well 135. The well 135 may further include a receptacle 24 for the module 22, and the receptacle 24 may be configured for connection to the port 14, such as by providing a physical space for the port 14 and / or by providing hardware for interconnection between the port 14 and the module 22. Figure 3-4 In the illustrated embodiment, well 135 is formed by a cavity in the upper major surface of midsole 131. Figure 3-4As shown, the sole structure 130 may include a compressible sole member 138 having a hole formed therein to receive the receptacle 24, which provides access to the well 135 and / or can be considered a part of the well 135. The insert 37 can be placed on top of the compressible sole member 138 to place the receptacle 24 in the well 135. In one embodiment, the compressible sole member 138 can face the midsole 131 and can directly contact the midsole 131. It should be understood that the compressible sole member 138 can face the midsole 131, and one or more additional structures are positioned between the compressible sole member 138 and the midsole 131, such as a strobel member. Figure 3-4 In the embodiment of the present invention, the compressible sole member 138 is in the form of a foam member 138 (e.g., an EVA member) located between the foot contacting member 133 and the midsole 131, which can be considered as a lower insole / shoe liner in this embodiment. In one embodiment, the foam member 138 can be attached to the strobel (not shown) of the midsole 131, such as by using an adhesive, and can cover any stitching on the strobel, which can prevent the insert 37 from being worn due to the stitching.

[0063] exist Figure 3-4 In the illustrated embodiment, the receiving portion 24 has a plurality of walls, including a side wall 25 and a base wall 26, and also includes a flange or lip 28 extending outwardly from the top of the side wall 25 and configured for connection to the insert 37. In one embodiment, the flange 28 is a separate component that is connected to the basin 29 via nails (not shown) to form the receiving portion 24, and the nails are inserted through holes 28B ( Figure 6) connection. In one embodiment, the nail can be connected via ultrasonic welding or other techniques and can be received in the receiver. In an alternative embodiment, the article of footwear 100 can be manufactured with a tub 29 formed in the sole structure 130, and the flange 28 can be subsequently connected, such as by a snap connection, optionally after the other parts of the port are also assembled. The receiving portion 24 can include a retaining structure to retain the module 22 in the receiving portion 24, and this retaining structure can be complementary to the retaining structure on the module 22, such as a lug / flange and channel configuration, a complementary lug, a locking member, a friction-fitting member, etc. The receiving portion 24 also includes a finger-shaped recess 29A located in the flange 28 and / or the tub 29, which provides space for the user's finger-shaped engagement module 22 to remove the module 22 from the receiving portion 24. The flange 28 provides a wide base that engages with the top of the insert 37, which disperses the force applied to the insert 37 and / or the foot contact member 133 through the flange 28, which reduces the possibility of severe deflection and / or damage to such components. The rounded corners on the flange 28 also help prevent damage to the insert 37 and / or the foot contacting member 133. It should be understood that the flange 28 can have different shapes and / or contours in other embodiments and can provide similar functionality with different shapes and / or contours.

[0064] The foot contacting member 133 is configured to be placed on top of the foam member 138 to cover the insert 37 and may include a recess 134 in its lower major surface to provide space for the receiving portion 24, such as Figure 3 Foot contacting member 133 may be bonded to foam member 138, and in one embodiment, may be bonded only in the forefoot region to allow foot contacting member 133 to be pulled upward to access module 22, such as Figure 3 In addition, the foot contacting member 133 may include a glue or high friction material (not shown) located on at least a portion of the underside to resist sliding on the insert 37 and / or foam member 138, such as a silicone material. For example, in embodiments where the foot contacting member 133 is bonded in the forefoot region and free in the heel region (e.g. Figure 3 ), the foot contact member 133 can have an adhesive material located on the heel area. The adhesive material can also provide an enhanced seal to resist soil penetration into the sensor system. In another embodiment, the foot contact member 133 can include a door or opening (not shown) configured to be located above the port 14 and sized to allow the module 22 to be inserted and / or removed through the foot contact member 133, and the door or opening can be opened in various ways, such as shaking on a hinge or removing a plug-like element. In one embodiment, the foot contact member 133 can also have graphic markings (not shown) thereon, as described below.

[0065] In one embodiment, Figure 3-4As shown, the foam member 138 may also include a recess 139 having the same peripheral shape as the insert 37 to receive the insert 37 therein, and the bottom layer 69 ( Figure 8 ) may include an adhesive backing to retain the insert 37 in the recess 139. In one embodiment, a relatively strong adhesive (e.g., a quick-connect acrylic adhesive) may be used for this purpose. The insert 37 has a hole or space 27 for receiving and providing space for the receptacle 24, and the foam member 138 in this embodiment may also allow the receptacle 24 to pass completely through and into at least a portion of the strobel and / or midsole 131 and / or through at least a portion of the strobel and / or midsole 131. Figure 3-4 In the illustrated embodiment, the foot contacting member 133 may have a reduced thickness relative to a typical foot contacting member 133 (e.g., an insole), and the thickness of the foam member 138 may be substantially equal to the reduced thickness of the foot contacting member 133 to provide the same cushioning. In one embodiment, the foot contacting member 133 may be an insole having a thickness of about 2-3 mm, and the foam member 138 may have a thickness of about 2 mm, with the recess 139 having a depth of about 1 mm. In one embodiment, the foam member 138 may be adhesively attached to the insert member 37 prior to attaching the foam member 138 to the article of footwear 100. This configuration allows the adhesive bond between the foam member 138 and the insert 37 to be set to a flat state prior to attaching the foam member to a strobel or other portion of the shoe 100, which typically causes the foam member 138 to bend or bend and may cause delamination. In one embodiment, the foam member 138 with the insert 37 adhesively attached may be provided in this configuration as a single product for insertion into the article of footwear 100. Figure 3-4 The positioning of the medial port 14 not only provides minimal contact, irritation, or other interference with the user's foot, but also provides easy entry and exit by elevating the foot contacting member 133 .

[0066] exist Figure 3-4In an embodiment of the present invention, the receiving portion 24 extends completely through the insert 37 and the foam member 138, and the well 135 may also extend completely through the strobel and at least partially into the midsole 131 of the shoe 100 to receive the receiving portion 24. In another embodiment, the well 135 may be configured differently, and in one embodiment may be positioned completely below the strobel, through a window of the strobel to allow access to the module 22 in the well 135. The well 135 may be formed using a variety of techniques, including cutting or removing material from the strobel and / or midsole 131, forming the strobel and / or midsole 131 with the well contained therein, or using techniques or a combination of such techniques. The receiving portion 24 may be assembled close to the wall of the well 135, which is advantageous because the gap between the receiving portion 24 and the well 135 is a cause of material failure. The process of removing the component 135 may be automated using appropriate computer control equipment.

[0067] In further embodiments, well 135 may be located elsewhere in sole structure 130. For example, well 135 may be located on the upper major surface of foot contacting member 133 and insert 37 may be positioned on top of foot contacting member 133. As another example, well 135 may be located on the lower major surface of foot contacting member 133 with insert 37 positioned between foot contacting member 133 and midsole 131. As a further example, well 135 may be located on outsole 132 and accessible from the exterior of shoe 100, such as through an opening in the side, bottom, or heel of outsole 130. Figure 3-4 In the illustrated construction, the port 14 is easily operable for connecting or disconnecting the electronic module 22, as described below. In another embodiment, the foot contacting member 133 can have an insert 37 connected to the bottom surface, and the port 14 and the well 135 can be formed in the sole structure 130. The interface 20 is positioned at the receiving portion 24, as similarly shown for other embodiments, but it should be understood that the interface 20 can be positioned in other locations, such as for engagement through the top of the module 22. The module 22 can be modified to accommodate such changes. Other configurations and arrangements of the receiving portion 24, the insert 37, the module 22 and / or the interface can be used in other embodiments.

[0068] In other embodiments, the sensor system 12 may be positioned differently. For example, in one embodiment, the insert 37 may be positioned in the outsole 132, the midsole 131, or the foot contact member 133. In an exemplary embodiment, the insert 37 may be positioned in the foot contact member 133 above the insole member, such as a sock, insole, inner shoe bootie or other similar article, which may be positioned between the foot contact member 133 and the insole member. Other configurations are also possible. As described, it should be understood that the sensor system 12 may be included in each shoe in a pair.

[0069] exist Figure 3-8 The insert member 37 in the illustrated embodiment is formed of a plurality of layers, including at least first and second layers 66, 68. The first and second layers 66, 68 may be formed of a flexible film material, such as Or other PET (polyethylene terephthalate), or other polymer films, such as polyamide. In one embodiment, each of the first and second layers 66, 68 can be a PET film having a thickness of 0.05-0.2 mm, such as a thickness of 125 μm. In addition, in one embodiment, each of the first and second layers 66, 68 has a minimum bending radius equal to or less than 2 mm. The insert 37 can further include a spacer layer 67 positioned between the first and second layers 66, 68 and / or a bottom layer 69 positioned on the bottom of the insert 37 below the second layer 68, which is included in Figure 3-8 In the embodiment shown, the layers 66, 67, 68, 69 of the insert 37 are stacked on top of each other and in facing relationship with each other, and in one embodiment, the layers 66, 67, 68, 69 have similar or identical perimeter shapes and overlap each other ( Fig. 9 ). In one embodiment, the spacer layer 67 and the bottom layer 69 can each have a thickness of 89-111 μm, for example, a thickness of 100 μm. The entire thickness of the insert member 37 can be about 450 μm in one embodiment, or about 428-472 μm in another embodiment, and about 278-622 μm in a further embodiment. In other embodiments, the insert 37 may also include additional adhesive that is 100-225 μm thick, and may further include one or more optional reinforcement layers, such as additional PET layers. In addition, in one embodiment, the entire four-layer insert as described above has a minimum bending radius equal to or less than 5 mm. It should be understood that the orientation of the first and second layers 66, 68 can be reversed in another embodiment, for example by placing the second layer 68 as the top layer and the first layer 66 below the second layer 68. In Figure 3-8 In the embodiment of the present invention, the first and second layers 66, 68 have various circuits and other components printed thereon, including the sensor 16, the leads 18, the resistors 53, 54, the paths 50, the dielectric sheet 80 and other components, which are described in detail below. Figure 3-8 In the embodiment of the present invention, the components are printed on the lower side of the first layer 66 and the upper side of the second layer 68, but in other embodiments, at least some components can be printed on opposite sides of the first and second layers 66, 68. The components located on the first layer 66 and / or the second layer 68 can be moved / shifted to the other layer 66, 68.

[0070] In one embodiment, the layers 66, 67, 68, 69 can be connected together by adhesive or other bonding materials. In one embodiment, the spacer layer 67 can include adhesive on one or both surfaces to connect to the first and second layers 66, 68. The bottom layer 69 can also have adhesive on one or both surfaces to connect to the second layer 68 and the footwear article 100. The first or second layer 66, 68 can additionally or alternatively have an adhesive surface for this purpose. Various other techniques can be used to connect the layers 66, 67, 68, 69 in other embodiments, such as heat sealing, spot welding, or other known techniques.

[0071] exist Figure 3-8 In the illustrated embodiment, sensor 16 is a force and / or pressure sensor for measuring pressure and / or force on sole 130. Sensor 16 has a resistance that decreases as pressure on sensor 16 increases, so that measuring resistance through port 14 can be performed to detect pressure on sensor 16. Figure 3-8 The sensor 16 in the illustrated embodiment is elliptical or circular, which enables a single sensor size to be used for several different shoe sizes. Each of the sensors 16 in this embodiment includes two contacts 40, 42, including a first contact 40 positioned on the first layer 66 and a second contact 42 positioned on the second layer 68. It should be understood that the figure showing the first layer 66 herein is a top view, and the electronic structure (including the contact 40, the lead 18, etc.) is positioned on the bottom side of the first layer 66 and can be seen through the transparent or translucent first layer 66, unless otherwise specified. The contacts 40, 42 are positioned relative to each other and in an overlapping relationship with each other, so that, for example, the pressure applied by the user's foot on the insertion member 37 increases the degree of engagement between the contacts 40, 42. The resistance of the sensor 16 decreases as the degree of engagement between the contacts 40, 42 increases, and the module 22 is configured to detect pressure based on the change in the resistance of the sensor 16. In one embodiment, the contacts 40, 42 can be formed by a conductive sheet that is printed on the first and second layers 66, 68, for example, on Figure 3-8 In an embodiment, the two contacts 40, 42 may be formed of the same or different materials. In addition, in one embodiment, the lead 18 is formed of a material having higher conductivity and lower resistance than the material (one or more) of the sensor contacts 40, 42. For example, the conductive sheet may be formed of carbon black or other conductive carbon materials. Further, in one embodiment, the two contacts 40, 42 may be formed of the same material or of two materials having similar hardness, which may reduce wear due to the difference in hardness of the materials in contact with each other. In this embodiment, the first contact 40 is printed on the lower side of the first layer 66, and the second contact 42 is printed on the upper side of the second layer 68 to allow bonding between the contacts 40, 42. Figure 3-8The illustrated embodiment includes a spacer layer 67 with holes 43 positioned at each sensor 16 to allow engagement of the contacts 40, 42 through the spacer layer 67 while insulating other portions of the first and second layers 66, 68 from each other. In one embodiment, each hole 43 is aligned with one of the sensors 16 and allows at least partial engagement between the contacts 40, 42 of the corresponding sensor 16. Figure 3-8 In the illustrated embodiment, the aperture 43 is smaller in area than the sensor contacts 40, 42, allowing the central portions of the contacts 40, 42 to engage each other while insulating the outer portions of the contacts 40, 42 and the distributed leads 18A from each other (see, for example, FIG. Figure 8 ). In another embodiment, the hole 43 can be sized to allow the contacts 40, 42 to engage across their entire surfaces. It should be understood that the size, dimensions, profiles, and configurations of the contacts 40, 42 and sensor 16 can vary in other embodiments while maintaining similar functionality. It should also be understood that sensors 16 having the same size can be used with inserts 37 of different sizes (which are used with shoes of different sizes), in which case the size of the sensor 16 relative to the overall size of the insert 37 can be different for different sizes of inserts 37. In other embodiments, the sensor system 12 can have different Figure 3-8 The sensor 16 of the embodiment may be configured differently than the sensor 16. In further examples, the sensor 16 may utilize a different construction that does not include carbon or similar based contacts 40, 42 and / or may not function as a resistive sensor 16. In other examples, examples of such sensors include capacitive sensors or strain gauge pressure sensors.

[0072] like Figure 3-8 As further shown, in one embodiment, the insert 37 may include an internal airflow system 70 configured to allow airflow through the insert 37 during compression and / or flexing of the insert 37 . Figure 8 Components of the airflow system 70 are shown in greater detail. The airflow system 70 may include one or more air channels or passages 71 that lead from the sensor 16 to one or more vents 72 to allow air to flow from the sensor 16 to the exterior of the insert 37 between the first and second layers 66, 68 and outward through the pair of vents (one or more) 72 during compression. The airflow system 70 prevents excessive pressure buildup during compression of the sensor 16 and also allows for consistent separation of the contacts 40, 42 of the sensor 16 at various air pressures and altitudes, resulting in more consistent performance. The channel 71 may be formed between the first and second layers 66, 68. As shown in FIG. Figure 8As shown, the spacer layer 67 has a channel 71 formed therein, and air can flow through these channels 71 in the first and second layers 66, 68, to the appropriate vents (one or more) 72. In one embodiment, the vents 72 can have filters (not shown) covering them. These filters can be configured to allow air, moisture and debris to pass through the vents 72 and prevent moisture and debris from entering the vents 72. In another embodiment, the insert 37 may not include a spacer layer, and the channel 71 can be formed into a specific style by unsealed layers 66, 68, for example, by applying unsealable materials. Thus, in this embodiment, the airflow system 70 can be considered to be integrated with the layers 66, 68 or directly defined by them. In other embodiments, the airflow system 70 can include air channels 71, vents 72 and / or other channels of different numbers or configurations.

[0073] exist Figure 3-8 In the illustrated embodiment, the airflow system 70 includes two vents 72 and a plurality of air channels 71 that connect each of the four sensors 16 to one of the vents 72. In this embodiment, the spacer layer 67 includes holes 43 at each sensor, and the channels 71 are connected to the holes 43 to allow air to flow away from the sensors 16 through the channels 71. In addition, in this embodiment, two sensors 16 are connected to each of the vents 72 through the channels 71. For example, Figure 4 and 8 As shown, the first metatarsal sensor 16b has a channel 71 extending to a vent 72 slightly behind the first metatarsal region of the insert 37, and the first phalanx sensor 16a also extends to the channel 71 of the same vent 72 via a channel that includes a path through the first metatarsal sensor 16b. In other words, the first phalanx sensor 16a has a channel 71 extending from the hole 43 at the first phalanx sensor 16a to the hole 43 at the first metatarsal sensor 16b, and another channel 71 extends from the first metatarsal sensor 16b to the vent 72. The fifth metatarsal sensor 16c and the heel sensor 16d also share a common vent 72 located at the heel portion of the insert 37. One channel 71 extends rearwardly from the hole 43 at the fifth metatarsal sensor 16c to the vent 72, and another channel 71 extends forwardly from the hole 43 at the heel sensor 16d to the vent 72. Sharing the vent 72 among multiple sensors can reduce costs, particularly by avoiding the need for additional filters 73. In other embodiments, the airflow system 70 can have a different configuration. For example, in various embodiments, each sensor 16 can have its own vent 72, or more than two sensors 16 can share the same vent 72.

[0074] Each vent 72 is formed as an opening in the bottom side of the second layer 68 (ie, opposite the first layer 66), such that the opening allows air, moisture, and / or debris from the airflow system 70 to flow outwardly, such as Fig. 9 As shown. In another embodiment, the vent 72 may include a plurality of openings. In further embodiments, the vent 72 may additionally or alternatively be formed by openings in the first layer 66 so that air is vented upwardly out of the insert 37. In additional embodiments, the vent 72 may be located in the side wall (thin edge) of the insert 37, for example by extending the channel 71 to the edge so that the channel 71 is open to the outside of the insert 37 through the edge. Figure 3-8 In the illustrated embodiment, air is exhausted downwardly making it more difficult for debris to enter the vents 72. The bottom layer 69, if present, also includes holes 74 located below the vents 72 to allow air to flow out of the vents 72 to pass through the bottom layer 69. The holes 74 are much larger than the vents 72 to allow the filter to be adhesively attached to the second layer 68 by the bottom layer 69 around the perimeter of each vent 72, as described below. In addition, in this embodiment, each vent 72 has a reinforcing material 75 positioned around the vent 72 to add stability and strength to the material and prevent damage / tearing. In the illustrated embodiment, the reinforcing material 75 is formed of the same material as the leads 18 (e.g., silver or other metal) to facilitate printing, but may also be formed of the same material as the sensor contacts 40, 42 (e.g., carbon) or a dielectric material described herein.

[0075] Figure 3-8 The vents 72 in the illustrated embodiment are downwardly open and air passing through the vents 72 travels downwardly toward the midsole 131 and toward the foam member 138 (if present). Figure 3-4 In the illustrated embodiment, the foam member 138 has cavities 76 that are located directly below the vent 72 and are configured such that air exiting the vent enters the corresponding cavities 76. Such cavities 76 are formed as channels that extend completely or at least partially through the foam member 138. This configuration allows air to flow out of the vent 72 without being obstructed by the foam member 138. Figure 3-4 In the embodiment of the present invention, each of the cavities 76 has a channel portion 77 that extends laterally away from the cavity 76 and beyond the peripheral boundary of the insert 37. In other words, the channel portion 77 of the cavity 76 extends laterally from the vent 72 to a distal end 78 that is located outside the peripheral boundary of the insert 37. It should be understood that if the foam member 138 has a recess 139 for receiving the insert member 37, the distal end 78 of the foam member 138 can also be located outside the peripheral boundary of the recess 139, such as Figure 3-4This configuration allows air entering cavity 76 to exit sole structure 130 by passing laterally through channel portion 77 and then upwardly and / or outwardly away from foam member 138. In another embodiment, distal end 78 may stop at a point in foam member 138 and still be outside the peripheral boundary of insert 37, which allows air to exit cavity 76 upwardly at distal end 78 and provide the same or similar functionality. As described above, the components of airflow system 70 may be configured differently than in other embodiments.

[0076] In addition, Figure 3-8 79. In an embodiment of the present invention, the foot contacting member 133 includes one or more channels 79 extending through the foot contacting member 133 at the distal end 78 of the cavity 76. The channels 79 may be pinhole type channels 79 and extend vertically through the foot contacting member 133. In another embodiment, a different type of channel 79 may be used, including a slot or groove, and at least one channel 79 may extend laterally to a side of the foot contacting member 133, rather than extending upward through the thickness of the foot contacting member 133. The channels 79 allow air to exit through the vent 72 and outward through the cavity 76 to pass through the foot contacting member 133 and exit the sole structure 130. In another embodiment, the foot contacting member 133 may not include any channel(s) 79. The foot contacting member 133 still provides ventilation in a configuration without any channel(s) 79, such as by using a breathable foam or other breathable material used to construct the foot contacting member 133.

[0077] exist Figure 3-8 In an embodiment, as described above, the spacer layer 67 generally isolates the conductive members / components on the first and second layers 66, 68 from each other, except in areas of desired electrical contact, such as at the path 50 and between the contacts 40, 42 of the sensor 16. The spacer layer 67 has holes 38, 43 to define areas of desired electrical contact between the layers 66, 68. Components of the airflow system 70, particularly the channel 71, can provide a path for short circuits or other desired electrical contacts through the conductive members between the first and second layers 66, 68. In one embodiment, the sensor system 12 may include one or more sheets of dielectric material 80 to resist or prevent undesired short circuits caused by one or more conductive members crossing the open areas of the spacer layer 67, such as the channel 71. Such dielectric material 80 may be an acrylic ink or other UV curable ink or other insulating material suitable for the application. Figure 3-8 In the illustrated embodiment, the insert 37 has several sheets of dielectric material 80 extending through the passages 71 so that the distribution leads 18A located around the contacts 40 , 42 are insulated from each other.

[0078] exist Figure 3-8In the embodiment of the present invention, the port 14, the sensor 16 and the lead 18 form a circuit 10 on the insert member 37. The port 14 has a plurality of terminals 11, four terminals 11 each dedicated to one of the four sensors 16, one terminal 11 for applying a voltage to the circuit 10, and one terminal 1 for voltage measurement. In this embodiment, the sensor system 12 also includes a pair of resistors 53, 54, each located on one of the layers 66, 68, and the path 50 connects the circuit on the first layer 66 with the circuit on the second layer 68. The resistors 53, 54 provide a reference point for the module 22 to measure the resistance of each sensor 16, and allow the module 22 to convert the variable current from the active sensor 16 into a measurable voltage. In addition, the resistors 53, 54 are arranged in parallel in the circuit 10, which compensates for changes in the circuit 10 and / or changes in the manufacturing process used to form the resistors 53, 54, such as changes in the conductivity of the ink used to print the lead 18 and / or the sensor contact 40, 42. In one embodiment, the equivalent resistance of the two resistors 53, 54 is 1500 + / - 500 kΩ. In another embodiment, a single resistor 53, 54 or two resistors 53, 54 in series may be used. In further embodiments, the resistors 53, 54 may be located elsewhere on the insert 37 or may be located in the circuit of the module 22. A more technical description of the circuit 10 of such an embodiment is as follows and as Fig. 9 shown.

[0079] Fig. 9 A circuit 10 for detecting and measuring pressure according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. The circuit 10 includes six terminals 104a-104f, including a power supply terminal 104a for applying voltage to the circuit 10, a measurement terminal 104b for measuring voltage as described below, and four sensor terminals 104c-104f, each of which is dedicated to one of the sensors 16a-16d, and each of which represents grounding in this embodiment. Terminals 104a-104f represent terminal 11 of port 14. In the embodiment shown, resistors 53 and 54 represent fixed resistors 102a and 102b connected in parallel. Fixed resistors 102a and 102b can be physically located in separate layers. The equivalent resistance across terminals 104a and 104b is determined by the following well-known equation:

[0080] R eq =R 102a ·R 102b / (R 102a +R 102b )(Equation 1)

[0081] in:

[0082] R 102a = Resistance of fixed resistor 102a

[0083] R 102b = Resistance of fixed resistor 102b

[0084] R eq =Equivalent resistance

[0085] The fixed resistors 102a and 102b electrically connected in parallel compensate for variations in the manufacturing process used to form the fixed resistors 102a and 102b. For example, if the fixed resistor 102a has a resistance obtained from the desired resistance, the deviation of the equivalent resistance determined by equation 1 is minimized by averaging the influence of the fixed resistor 102b. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that only two fixed resistors are shown for the purpose of illustration. Additional fixed resistors may be connected in parallel and each fixed resistor may be formed on a different layer.

[0086] exist Fig. 9 In the illustrated embodiment, fixed resistors 102a and 102b are connected to sensors 16a-16d.Sensors 16a-16d can be implemented by variable resistors, whose resistance changes in response to changes in pressure, as described above.Sensors 16a-16d can each be implemented by multiple variable resistors.In one embodiment, each sensor 16a-16d is implemented by two variable resistors, and two variable resistor entities are located on different layers and are electrically connected in parallel.For example, as described above for an embodiment, each sensor 16a-16d can include two contacts 40, 42, which are more engaged with each other as the pressure is applied, and the resistance of sensors 16a-16d can be reduced as the engagement increases.As described above, resistors are connected in parallel to form an equivalent resistance that minimizes the deviation formed during the manufacturing process.In another embodiment, contacts 40, 42 can be arranged in series.Sensors 16a-16d can be connected to ground via switches 108a-108d.Switches 108a-108d can be closed one at a time to connect sensors. In some embodiments, switches 108a-108d are implemented by transistors or integrated circuits.

[0087] In operation, a voltage level of, for example, 3 volts is applied to terminal 104a. Switches 108a-108d are closed one at a time to connect one of sensors 16a-16d to ground. When connected to ground, sensors 16a-16d each form a voltage divider through a combination of fixed resistors 102a and 102b. For example, when switch 108a is closed, the voltage between terminal 104a and ground is distributed between the combination of fixed resistors 102a and 102b and sensor 16a. The voltage measured at terminal 104b varies with the change in resistance of sensor 16a. As a result, the pressure applied to sensor 16a can be measured as the voltage level at terminal 104b. The resistance of sensor 16a is measured using a voltage applied to sensor 16a (which is connected in series with fixed resistors 104a and 104b of a combination of known values). Similarly, selectively closing switches 108b-108d will generate a voltage at terminal 104b related to the pressure applied at sensor 16b-16d. It should be understood that the connections between the sensors 16a-d and the terminals 104c-f may be different in other embodiments. For example, the sensors 16a-d are connected to different pins of the interface in the left shoe insert 37 than the right shoe insert 37, such as Figure 8 In another embodiment, the voltage levels may be applied in a relative manner, with ground at terminal 104a and voltage applied at terminals 104c-f. In further embodiments, other circuit configurations may be used to achieve similar results and functions.

[0088] Figure 8 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the two resistors 53, 54 have similar or identical structures, but it should be understood that in other embodiments, the resistors may have different structures. Each resistor 53, 54 has two portions 55, 56 spaced apart from each other and a bridge 57 positioned between and connecting the portions 55, 56. In one embodiment, the bridge 57 may be formed of a material with a greater resistance than the portions 55, 56, and may thereby provide a majority of the resistance of each resistor 53, 54. The portions 55, 56 may be at least partially formed of a highly conductive material, such as a silver material. Figure 3-9 In the illustrated embodiment, the inner and outer portions 55, 56 are formed of the same material as the leads 18, such as a printed silver-based or other metal-based ink. In this embodiment, the bridge 57 is formed of the same material as the sensor contacts 40, 42, such as carbon black or other conductive carbon material. It should be understood that in other embodiments, the inner and outer portions 55, 56 and / or the bridge 57 may be formed of different materials.

[0089] The path 50 generally allows for continuous and / or uninterrupted electrical communication and transfer of electronic signals between the first and second layers 66, 68. Figure 3-8In the embodiment of the present invention, the port 14 is directly connected to the second layer 68 and the path 50 can be used as a vertical path between the port 14 and the sensor contact 40 on the first layer 66, 68. In this embodiment, the path 50 includes conductive portions 51 on the first layer 66 and the second layer 68, so that the conductive portions 51 can be continuously bonded to each other to provide continuous electrical communication between the first and second layers 66, 68. The spacer layer 67 in this embodiment includes a hole 38 that is aligned with the path 50 and allows continuous bonding between the conductive portions 51 through the spacer layer 67. In addition, in Figure 3-5 In an embodiment, the conductive portions 51 are each divided into two portions 52 that are separated by an elongated gap 59. The gap 59 can be oriented to increase the durability of the path 50 by serving as a flexure point that minimizes bending of the conductive portions 51 during flexure of the insert 37. The conductive portions 51 of the path 50 are formed of a conductive material, and in one embodiment, the conductive portions 51 can be formed of the same material as the leads 18, such as a silver-based ink or other metallic ink. In other embodiments, the path 50 and its components described herein can have different sizes, shapes, forms, or locations and can be formed of different materials. Additionally, in one embodiment, the path 50 can be at least partially supported by or bounded by a reinforcing structure 60 to provide structural support and / or structural effects, such as to facilitate bonding between the conductive portions 51. As Figure 3-8 As shown, the conductive portion 51 is supported by a substantially annular reinforcement member 60. The reinforcement member 60 may be formed of any material having a suitable stiffness, and in one embodiment, may be formed of a material that is stiffer than the material of the conductive portion 51, such as carbon black or other carbon-based materials. Further, the holes 38 in the spacer layer 67 allow the conductive portions 51 to be joined to each other.

[0090] The insert 37 may be constructed by depositing various components on a polymer (e.g., PET) film. In one embodiment, the insert 37 is constructed by first depositing a conductive metal material on each layer 66, 68, such as by printing in the trace pattern of the leads 18 (including the distribution leads 18A, the conductive portion 51 of the path 50, the inner and outer portions 55, 56 of the resistors 53, 54, etc.). Additional carbon material may then be deposited on each layer 66, 68, such as by printing, to form the contacts 40, 42, the reinforcement 60 of the path 50, the resistors 53, 54, etc. Any additional components may then be deposited, such as any dielectric portions. In one embodiment, the layers 66, 68 may be printed on a PET sheet and then cut to form the outer perimeter shape after printing.

[0091] Port 14 is configured to communicate data collected by sensor 16 to an external source in one or more known manners. In one embodiment, port 14 is a general purpose communication port configured to communicate data in a generally readable manner. Figure 3-8 In the embodiment shown in FIG. 14 , the port 14 includes an interface 20 for connecting to an electronic module 22, which is for Figure 3 Also, in this embodiment, port 14 is associated with a receptacle 24 for inserting an electronic module 22 that is located in a well 135 in the medial arch or midfoot region of midsole 131. Figure 3-8 As shown, the sensor leads 18 converge together to form a unified interface 20 at their terminals 11 for connection to the port 14. In one embodiment, the unified interface can include various connections of the sensor leads 18 to the port interface 20, such as through multiple electrical contacts. In another embodiment, the sensor leads 18 can be unified to form an external interface, such as a plug-type interface or other configuration, and in further embodiments, the sensor leads 18 can form a non-unified interface, with each lead 18 having its various individual terminals 11. As described below, the module 22 can have an interface 23 for connecting to the port interface 20 and / or the sensor leads 18.

[0092] exist Figure 3-8 In the embodiment shown in Figures 1 and 14, the interface 20 takes the form of an electrical contact or terminal 11. In one embodiment, the terminal 11 is formed on a tongue or extension 21 extending from one of the layers 66, 68 into the hole 27 provided for the receiving portion 24. The extension unifies the ends of the leads 18 into a single area to form the interface 20. Figure 3-8 In the embodiment of 14, the extension 21 extends from the second layer 68 into the hole 27 and bends downward in the receiving portion 24 to place the terminal 11 in the receiving portion 24 and make the interface 20 operable in the receiving portion 24. The extension 21 can pass under the flange 28 of the receiving portion 24 and through other spaces under the groove or lip 28 to extend into the receiving portion 24. Figure 3-8 In the configuration shown in FIGS. 14 and 15 , the extension 21 is bent downwardly into the well 135 and into the receiving portion 24 , as described above, to place the terminal 11 in the receiving portion 24 and form the interface 20 in the receiving portion 24 .

[0093] The receiving portion 24 may include a connection structure, such as a connection pin or a spring for realizing the connection between the interface 20 and the module 22, such as Fig.14A, B. In one embodiment, the port 14 includes an electrical connector 82 forming the interface 20, which may include a contact portion that is distributed and attached to the terminal 11, as described above. The connector 82 may be connected to the extension 21 and the terminal 11 via a crimp connection. In this embodiment, the interface 20 includes seven terminals: each of which is distributed and connected to one of the four terminals 11 in the sensor 16, used as a measurement terminal (in Fig. 9 104b) of a terminal 11, and used as a power supply terminal ( Fig. 9 104a in the circuit 10) to apply a voltage to one terminal of the circuit 10. As described above, in another embodiment, the power supply terminal can be configured as a ground terminal instead, and the sensor terminal ( Fig. 9 104c-f) in is configured as a power terminal. The seventh terminal can be used to provide power to an accessory, such as a unique identification chip. In one embodiment, the sixth and seventh terminals 11 extend on the tail 21A, and the tail extends from the end of the extension 21. The accessory can be connected through the two terminals 11 on the tail 21A to provide power to the accessory. The accessory may include a small printed circuit board (PCB) with a memory chip, and the chip is attached to the tail 21A via an anisotropic contact form. In one embodiment, the accessory chip may include information that can uniquely identify the shoe article 100, such as a serial number, and substantial information such as whether the shoe 100 is a left shoe or a right shoe, a men's shoe or a women's shoe, a specific shoe type (such as a running shoe, a tennis shoe, a basketball shoe, etc.) and other types of information. This information can be read by the module 22 and then used to analyze, provide and / or organize data from the sensor. The accessory can be sealed into the receiving portion 24, such as via epoxy resin or other materials.

[0094] Port 14 is suitable for connecting to many different electronic modules 22, which can be connected to memory components (such as flash drive disks) or they can contain more complex features. It should be understood that module 22 can be a complex component, such as a personal computer, a mobile device, a server, etc. Port 14 is configured to transfer data collected by sensor 16 to module 22 for storage, transfer, and / or processing. In some embodiments, port 14, sensor 16 and / or other components of sensor system 12 can be configured to process data. Port 14, sensor 16 and / or other components of sensor system 12 can be configured to transfer data directly to external device 110 or multiple modules 22 and / or external device 110 in addition or alternatively. It should be understood that for these purposes, port 14, sensor 16 and / or other components of sensor system 12 can include appropriate hardware, software, etc. Examples of housings and electronic modules in footwear articles are shown in U.S. Patent Application No. 11 / 416,458, which is disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2007 / 0260421, which is incorporated herein by reference and becomes a part of this article. Although the port 14 is shown as having an electronic terminal 11 forming an interface 20 for connecting to the module 22, in other embodiments, the port 14 may include one or more additional or alternative communication interfaces. For example, the port 14 may include or include a USB port, a Firewire port, a 16-pin port, or other types of physical contact-based connections, or may include a wireless or contactless communication interface, such as an interface for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, near field communication, RFID Bluetooth low energy, Zigbee or other wireless communication technologies, or an interface for infrared or other optical communication technologies. In another embodiment, the sensor system 12 may include more than one port 14, which is configured to communicate with one or more modules 22 or external devices 110. This configuration may be alternatively considered as a single distributed port 14. For example, each of the sensors 16 may have a separate port 14 for communicating with one or more electronic modules 22. In this embodiment, the port 14 is connected to the sensor 16 by a lead 18 and may be located between the layers of the insert 37, in a hole in the insert 37, or above or below the insert 37 in various embodiments. It should be understood that multiple or distributed port(s) 14 may be used with a combination of two or more sensors connected to a single port 14. In further embodiments, the sensor system 12 may include one or more ports 14 having different configurations, which may include a combination of two or more configurations described herein.

[0095] The module 22 may additionally have one or more communication interfaces for connecting to an external device 110 to transfer data for processing, as described below and as shown in FIG. Figure 5 and20 -21. Such an interface may include any contact or contactless interface as described above. In one example, module 22 includes at least a retractable USB connection for connecting to a computer and / or for charging a battery of module 22. In another example, module 22 may be configured for contact or wireless connection to a removable device, such as a watch, a phone, a portable music player, etc. Module 22 may be configured for wireless communication with an external device 110 that allows device 22 to remain in shoe 100. However, in another embodiment, module 22 may be configured to be removed from shoe 100 to directly connect to external device 110 for data transfer, such as via a retractable USB connection as described above. Fig. 20 1 shows an embodiment in which the module 22 is configured for wireless communication with one or more external devices 110. Such external devices 110 may also communicate information received from the sensor system 12 to each other, as well as Fig. 20 shown.

[0096] In a wireless embodiment, module 22 may be connected to an antenna for wireless communication (see Fig. 20 ). The antenna 17 can be shaped, sized and positioned to be used for the appropriate transmission frequency of the selected wireless communication method. In addition, the antenna 17 can be located inside the module 22 or outside the module. In one example, the sensor system 12 itself (e.g., the leads 18 and conductive portions of the sensor 16) can be used to form the antenna. The module 22 can be further placed, positioned and / or configured to improve the reception of the antenna, and in one embodiment, a part of the user's body can be used as the antenna. In one embodiment, the module 22 can be permanently installed in the shoe 100, or alternatively can be removed according to the user's choice and can be kept in the shoe 100 as desired. In addition, as further described below, the module 22 can be removed and replaced by another module 22, which is programmed and / or configured to collect and / or utilize data from the sensor 16 in another way. If the module 22 is permanently installed in the shoe 100, the sensor system 12 can further include an external port (not shown) to allow data transfer and / or battery transfer, such as a USB or Firewire port. It should be understood that the module 22 can be configured for contact and contactless communication.

[0097] In another embodiment, if Fig.21 As shown, the system 12 may not include the module 22, and instead, the sensor 16 may communicate directly with the external device 110 by wire or wireless communication. Fig.21In the illustrated embodiment, the sensors 16 each have a separate antenna 17 (and may also include a transmitter or TX / RX 107) that communicates with the external device 110. In another embodiment, multiple sensors 16 may communicate via a single antenna 17 (and / or a single transmitter or TX / RX 107). It should be understood that for simplicity purposes, the sensors 16 are described in detail below. Fig.21 A single device 110 is shown in FIG. 1 , and the sensor system 12 may communicate with several external devices 110 directly or indirectly.

[0098] Although port 14 may be located in a variety of locations without departing from this invention, in one embodiment, port 14 is disposed in a location and orientation and / or otherwise configured to avoid or minimize contact and / or irritation with a wearer's foot, such as when the wearer steps downward and / or uses article of footwear 100, such as during athletic activity. Figure 3-4 The positioning of the port 14 in FIG. 14 shows one such example. In another embodiment, the port 14 is positioned near the heel or instep area of ​​the shoe 100. Other features of the shoe structure 100 can help reduce or avoid contact between the wearer's foot and the port 14 (or elements connected to the port 14) and improve the overall comfort of the shoe structure 100. For example, as described above and as Figure 3-4 As shown, foot contacting member 133 may fit over port 14 and at least partially cover port 14, thereby providing a cushioning layer between the wearer's foot and port 14. Additional features for reducing contact between port 14 and the wearer's foot and moderating any undesirable sensation from port 14 by the wearer's foot may be used.

[0099] Fig.14A -B further shows an embodiment of the port 14, which is configured for inserting a member 37. Similar structures as described above are marked with the same or similar reference numerals. Such embodiments and variations of the embodiments are described below. As described herein and disclosed herein, the port 14 defines or supports an interface 20 for operably connecting to a module 22. The module 22 will also be described in detail later. Through the operable connection between the port 14 and the module 22, data sensed by the sensor assembly 12 can be obtained, stored and / or processed for further use and analysis.

[0100] Further Fig.14A-B, in this embodiment the receiving portion 24 includes a base member 140 and a cover member 142. The base member 140 may correspond to the basin 29 described above, which defines the sidewalls 25 and the base wall 26. The cover member 142 has a central hole 153 sized to receive the module 22 therethrough. The underside of the cover member 142 has a pair of overhanging posts (not shown) that cooperate with a receiver (not shown) on the base member 140 as described below. The outer periphery of the cover member 142 defines a lip or flange 28. In an exemplary embodiment, the cover member 142 may have an overhanging wall that cooperatively defines the sidewall 25 of the receiving portion 24. In this configuration, the base member 140 may define a boss on the sidewall to receive the overhanging wall on the cover member 142.

[0101] Fig. 14B Components of an interface assembly 156 are further shown. The interface assembly 156 has a carrier 157 that supports the electrical connectors 82. The electrical connectors 82 each have contacts that are resiliently supported by the carrier 157 and that cooperate with corresponding contacts on the module 22. As shown in FIG. 14 , the interface assembly 156 is operatively connected to the extension 21 having the leads 11 of the insert member 37 thereon. As further shown Fig. 14B As shown, it should be understood that the tail portion 21A can be further folded over the back side of the extension portion 21 and positioned adjacent thereto. As further shown in FIG. 14 , the carrier 157 is positioned in the first outer channel 148 of the base member 140 of the receiving portion 24. Fig. 14B It is understood that the filling material 159 (such as sealant) can be injected into the second outer channel 150 behind the carrier 157. This configuration allows the connector 82 of the interface 20 to be exposed in the basin 29 for connecting to the module 22.

[0102] Figure 15-16Additional views and features of one embodiment of module 22 are shown. As previously described, module 22 is received by port 14 and operatively connected to port 14 to collect, store and / or process data from sensor assembly 12. It should be understood that module 21 accommodates components for various purposes, including but not limited to printed circuit boards, power supplies, light components, interfaces and different types of sensors, including multi-axis accelerometers, gyroscopes and / or magnetometers. Module 22 generally includes a housing 170 supporting an interface assembly 171, which forms an interface 23 and has an electrical connector that forms a contact portion for cooperating with the interface 20 of port 14. Interface assembly 171 has a plurality of connectors 172 and a module carrier 173. Each of connectors 172 has a distal end that forms a contact portion that collectively defines the interface 23 of module 22. It should be understood that connector 172 can be insert molded so that material is formed around connector 172 to define module carrier 173. The housing 170 generally has a module base member 175, which may include a plurality of members (e.g., an outer member and an inner member). The housing 170 further has a module top member 177, which may also include a plurality of members (e.g., an outer member and an inner top member). The module base member 175, the module top member 177, and the interface assembly 171 cooperate to provide a sealing configuration around the connector 172. In this embodiment, the connector 172 may be considered to have an overmolded configuration. These components also form an inner cavity, wherein the housing 170 supports internal components, including a printed circuit board 180, which is operatively connected to the connector 172.

[0103] It should be understood that the module 22 is received in the port 14. The front end of the module 22 is inserted through the central hole 153 and enters the first portion 144. The module 22 is sized to correspond substantially to the size of the basin 29 in an interference fit manner. In this configuration, the interface 23 on the module 22 operatively engages the interface 20 on the port 14, wherein the corresponding contact of the interfaces 20, 23 is a surface-to-surface contact. Thus, the configuration causes the interface 23 of the module 22 to be forced against the interface 20 of the port 14. The module 22 may have a recess 184 on the rear surface that receives the protrusion 151 of the receiving portion 24 to help retain the module 22 in the port 14 by a snap connection. The user can easily remove the module 22 from the port by operating the module 22 with the assistance of the finger-shaped recess 29A. Thus, when necessary, the module 22 can be easily inserted into and removed from the port 14, for example, for charging or transferring data, or for replacing one type of module 22 used for one application with a different type of module used for a different application, or for replacing a module 22 that has been depleted of power with a module 22 that has just been charged.

[0104] Figure 5A schematic diagram of an exemplary electronic module 22 is shown, which includes the ability to transmit / receive via a data transmission / reception system 107 that can be used in accordance with at least some examples of the present invention. Figure 5 The exemplary structure of the data transmission / reception system (TX-RX) 107 is shown to be integrated into the electronic module structure 22, but it should be understood by those skilled in the art that separate components can be included as part of the shoe structure 100 or other structures for data transmission / reception purposes, and / or in all examples of the present invention, the data transmission / reception system 107 does not have to be completely contained in a single housing or a single package. Instead, if desired, the various components or elements of the data transmission / reception system 107 can be separated from each other, in different housings, on different boards, and / or in various different ways, respectively, without departing from the present invention. Various examples of different possible mounting structures are described in detail below.

[0105] exist Figure 5 In the example of, the electronic component 22 may include a data transmission / reception element 107 for transmitting data and / or receiving data from one or more remote systems. In one embodiment, the transmission / reception element 107 is configured to communicate through the port 14, such as through a contact or non-contact interface as described above. Figure 5 In the illustrated embodiment, module 22 includes an interface 23 configured for connection to port 14 and / or sensor 16. Figure 5 In the module 22 shown, the interface 23 has a contact portion complementary to the terminal 11 of the interface 20 of the port 14 to connect with the port 14. In other embodiments, as described above, the port 14 and the module 22 may include different types of interfaces 20, 23, which may be contact-type or wireless. It should be understood that in some embodiments, the module 22 may be connected to the port 14 and / or the sensor 16 interface through the TX-RX element 107. Thus, in one embodiment, the module 22 may be outside the shoe 100, and the port 14 may include a wireless transmission interface for communicating with the module 22. The electronic component 22 of this example further includes a processing system 202 (e.g., one or more microprocessors), a memory system 204, and a power supply 206 (e.g., a battery or other power supply). In one embodiment, the power supply 206 may be configured for inductive charging, such as by including a coil or other inductive member. In this configuration, the module 22 can be charged by placing the shoe article 100 on an inductive pad or other inductive charger, allowing the module 22 not to be removed from the port 14. In another embodiment, the power source 206 may additionally or alternatively be configured for charging using energy-harvesting technology and may include a device for energy harvesting, such as a charger that charges the power source 206 by absorbing kinetic energy generated by the user's movement.

[0106] Connection to one or more sensors can be as follows Figure 5 100, including pedometer-type speed and / or distance information, other speed and / or distance data sensor information, temperature, altitude, barometric pressure, humidity, GPS data, accelerometer output or data, heart rate, pulse rate, blood pressure, body temperature, EKG data, EEG data, sweat detection, data related to angular orientation and changes related to angular orientation (e.g., gyroscope-based sensors), etc., and such data may be stored in the memory 204 and / or may be used, for example, for transmission to some remote location or system via the transmission / reception system 107. The additional sensor(s), if present, may also include an accelerometer (e.g., for sensing changes in direction during walking, for example, for pedometer-type speed and / or distance information, for sensing jump height, etc.). In one embodiment, module 22 may include an additional sensor 208 , such as an accelerometer, and data from sensor 16 may be integrated with the accelerometer 208 , such as by module 22 or external device 110 .

[0107] In one embodiment, the sensor system 12, the external device 110, or both may include a GPS device or sensor 209, which may include a GPS antenna and other necessary hardware. Because the sensor system 12 is typically always carried by the user during use, a GPS device connected to the sensor system 12 can be used to sense the user's location when in use. Figure 5 In the embodiment of the present invention, GPS device 209 is shown as being included in module 22, but it should be understood that GPS device 209 can be external to module 22 and can communicate with module 22 in another embodiment. External device 110 can additionally or alternatively include GPS device 209 which can be used in conjunction with the module 22. Fig.21 The sensor system 12 is shown used in conjunction without the electronic module 22. It should be understood that the memory 204, 304 and processing system 202, 302 of the external device 110 and / or module 22 may include and be configured for processing software for use with the GPS device 209. The operation of the GPS device 209 and its use in conjunction with the system 400 and method 500 for analyzing athletic activity are described in detail below.

[0108] As an additional example, various types of electronic modules, systems and methods as described above can be used to provide automatic impact cushioning control for footwear. Such systems and methods can operate, for example, as those described in U.S. Patent No. 6,430,843, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2003 / 0009913, and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2004 / 0177531, which describe systems and methods for actively and / or dynamically controlling impact attenuation characteristics (U.S. Patent No. 6,430,843, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2003 / 0009913, and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2004 / 0177531 are each fully incorporated herein by reference and become a part of this article). When used to provide speed and / or distance type information, sensing units, algorithms and / or systems of the types described in U.S. Patents 5,724,265, 5,955,667, 6,018,705, 6,052,654, 6,876,947 and 6,882,955 can be used. Each of these patents is fully incorporated herein by reference. Additional embodiments of sensors and sensor systems and articles of footwear and sole structures and components utilizing the same are described in the following documents: U.S. Patent Application No. 12 / 483,824, which was published as U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2010 / 0063778. U.S. Patent Application No. 12 / 483,828, which was published as U.S. Patent Application Publication 2010 / 0063779 and U.S. Patent Applications 13 / 399,778 and 13 / 399,935, both of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety and made a part of this document.

[0109] The electronic module 22 may also include a startup system (not shown). The startup system or a portion thereof may be engaged with the module 22 or the article of footwear 100 (or other device) and with a portion of the electronic module 22 together or separately. The startup system may be used to selectively enable the electronic module 22 and / or at least some functions of the electronic module 22 (e.g., data transmission / receiving functions, etc.). Various different startup systems may be used without departing from the present invention. In any such embodiment, the sensor system 12 may include a "sleep" mode that may disable the system 12 after a set non-startup period. In an alternative embodiment, the sensor system 12 may be operated as a low-power device that is not started or disabled.

[0110] The module 22 may be further configured to communicate with an external device 110, which may be an external computer or computer system, a mobile device, a gaming system, or other type of electronic device, such as Figure 6 and 10 -12. Figure 5The exemplary external device 110 shown includes a processor 302, a memory 304, a power source 306, a display 308, a user input 310, and a data transmission / reception system 108. The transmission / reception system 108 is configured to communicate with the module 22 via the transmission / reception system 107 of the module 22, by any known type of electronic communication (including contact and contactless communication methods described above and elsewhere in this document). It should be understood that the module 22 and / or the port 14 can be configured to communicate with a plurality of external devices, including electronic devices of many different types and configurations, and also include intermediate devices for transmitting information to another external device, and may or may not further process such data. In addition, the transmission / reception system 107 of the module 22 can be configured for a variety of different types of electronic communications. It should be further understood that the shoe 100 may include a separate power source to operate the sensor 16 when necessary, such as a battery, a piezoelectric power source, a solar power source, or other power source. In Figure 3-8 In the embodiment of FIG. 1 , the sensor 16 receives energy by being connected to the module 22 .

[0111] As described below, such sensor components may be customized to specific software for the electronic module 22 and / or external device 110. A third party may provide such software and a sole insert having a customized sensor component as a package. The module 22 and / or the overall sensor system 12 may cooperate with one or more algorithms for analyzing data obtained from the sensor 16, including algorithms stored and / or executed on the module, external device 110, or another component.

[0112] In operation, the sensor 16 collects data according to its function and design, and transmits the data to the port 14. The port 14 then allows the electronic module 22 to communicate with the sensor 16 interface and collect the data for later use and / or processing. In one embodiment, the data is collected, stored and transmitted in a universally readable form so that the data can be accessed and / or downloaded by multiple users for a variety of different applications and for a variety of different purposes. In one example, the data is collected, stored and transmitted in XML format. In one embodiment, the module 22 detects the use of such as by measuring the voltage drop at the measurement terminal 104b. Fig. 9 As the pressure in the sensor 16 of the circuit 10 is shown, this voltage drop reflects the change in resistance of the particular sensor 16 currently being switched. Fig.13An example of a pressure-resistance curve for the sensor 16 is shown, with the dashed line showing potential migration of the curve due to factors such as bending of the insert 37. The module 22 can have a starting resistance RA, which is the detection resistance necessary for the module 22 to record the pressure on the sensor. The corresponding pressure that produces this resistance is called the starting pressure PA. The starting resistance RA can be selected to be the specific starting pressure PA when the module 22 is expected to record data. In one embodiment, the starting pressure PA can be about 0.15 bar, about 0.2 bar, or about 0.25 bar, and the corresponding starting resistance RA can be about 100 kΩ. In addition, in one embodiment, the highest sensitive range can be 150-1500 mbar. In one embodiment, as shown Figure 3-4 and Figure 6-8 The sensor system 12 configured as shown may detect pressures in the range of 0.1-7.0 bar (or approximately 0.1-7.0 atm), and in another embodiment, the sensor system 12 may detect pressures above this range with high sensitivity.

[0113] In different embodiments, the sensor system 12 can be configured to collect different types of data. In one embodiment (as described above), the sensor (one or more) 16 can collect data related to the number, sequence and / or frequency of compression. For example, the system 12 can record the number or frequency of steps, jumps, crosscuts, kicks, or other compression forces caused while wearing the shoe 100, as well as other parameters such as contact time and flight time. Quantitative sensors and binary on / off type sensors can gather such data. In another example, the system can record the sequence of compression forces caused by the shoe, which can be used for purposes such as determining the pronation or supination of the foot, weight transfer, footstep patterns, or other such applications. In another embodiment (also described above), the sensor (one or more) 16 can quantitatively measure the compression forces on the adjacent parts of the shoe 100, and the data may therefore include quantitative compression forces and / or impact measurements. The relative difference in force on different parts of the shoe 100 can be used to determine the weight distribution and "pressure center" of the shoe 100. The weight distribution and / or pressure center can be calculated independently for one or two shoes 100, or can be calculated together on two shoes, such as for finding the pressure center or weight distribution center of the entire body of the person. In further embodiments, the sensor(s) 16 may measure the rate of change of squeeze force, contact time, flight time or time between impacts (e.g., jumping or running), and / or other temporally dependent parameters. It should be understood that in any embodiment, the sensor 16 may require certain threshold forces or impacts before registering a force / impact, as described above.

[0114] As described above, in one embodiment data is provided to module 22 via universal port 14 in a universally readable format, thereby making the number of applications, users, and programs that can use the data virtually unlimited. Thus, port 14 and module 22 are configured and / or programmed as desired by the user, and port 14 and module 22 receive input data from sensor system 12, which can be used in any manner desired for different applications. Module 22 can identify whether the received data is related to the left shoe or the right shoe, such as by using a unique identification chip. Module 22 can process the data differently based on the identification of the L / R shoe, and can also pass the data to the external device 110 by identifying whether the data is from the L / R shoe. The external device 110 can also process or otherwise operate the data differently based on the confirmation of the L / R shoe. In one example, the connection of sensor 16 to terminal 11 and interface 20 can be different between the left and right inserts 37, such as Fig.12 As shown and as described above. According to this construction, the data from the left insert 37 can be interpreted differently from the data from the right insert 37. Module 22 and / or electronic device 110 can perform similar actions for other identification information contained on the unique identification chip 92. In many applications, data is further processed by module 22 and / or external device 110 before use. In the construction in which external device 110 further processes data, module 22 can transfer data to external device 110. This data transferred can be transferred in the same universal readable format, or can be transferred in another format, and module 22 can be configured to change the format of data. In addition, module 22 can be configured and / or programmed to collect, utilize, and / or process data from sensors 16 for one or more specific applications. In one embodiment, module 22 is configured to collect, utilize, and / or process data for use in multiple applications. Examples of this use and application are given below. As used herein, the term "application" generally refers to specific use, rather than necessarily referring to computer program applications, because the term is used in the field of computers. However, specific applications can be implemented in computer program applications completely or at least in part.

[0115] Further, in one embodiment, module 22 can be removed from shoe 100 and replaced with second module 22, which is configured to operate differently from first module 22. For example, replacement is achieved by lifting foot contact member 133, disconnecting first module 22 from port 14 and removing first module 22 from accommodation portion 24, then inserting second module 22 into accommodation portion 24 and connecting second module 22 to port 14 and finally preventing foot contact member 133 from being in place. Second module 22 can be programmed and / or configured differently from first module 22. In one embodiment, first module 22 can be configured to be used in one or more specific applications, and second module 22 can be configured to be used in one or more different applications. For example, first module 22 can be configured to be used for one or more game applications and second module 22 can be configured to be used for one or more sports performance monitoring applications. In addition, module 22 can be configured to be used for different applications of the same type. For example, first module 22 can be configured to be used for a game or sports performance monitoring application, and second module 22 can be configured to be used for different games or sports performance monitoring applications. As another example, the modules 22 may be configured to have different uses in the same game or performance monitoring application. In another embodiment, the first module 22 may be configured to collect one type of data, and the second module 22 may be configured to collect different types of data. Examples of this type of data are described herein, including quantitative force and / or pressure measurements, relative force and / or pressure measurements (i.e., sensors 16 relative to each other), weight migration / transfer, impact sequence (e.g., for kicking methods), force and / or pressure change rate, etc. In a further embodiment, the first module 22 may be configured to utilize or process data from the sensors 16 in a different manner from the second module 22. For example, the module 22 may be configured to only collect, store and / or communicate data, or the module 22 may be configured to further process the data in some manner, such as managing the data, changing the form of the data, performing calculations using the data, etc. In another embodiment, the module 22 may be configured to communicate in different ways, such as having different communication interfaces or being configured to communicate with different external devices 110. Module 22 may also function in different ways, both structurally and functionally, such as using a different power source or including additional or different hardware components, such as additional sensors as described above (eg, GPS, accelerometer, etc.).

[0116] One contemplated use of the data collected by the system 12 is to measure weight transfer, which is important to many athletic activities, such as a golf swing, a baseball / softball swing, a hockey swing (ice hockey or field hockey), a tennis swing, throwing / pitching, etc. The pressure data collected by the system 12 can impart valuable feedback related to balance and stability for improving technique in any applicable athletic field. It should be understood that a more or less expensive and complex sensor system 12 may be designed based on the intended use of the data collected thereby.

[0117] The data collected by system 12 can be used to measure various other sports performance characteristics. The data can be used to measure the degree and / or speed of inward rotation / supination of the foot, footstep pattern, balance, and other such parameters, which can be used to improve the technique of running / jogging or other sports activities. For inward rotation / supination, data analysis can also be used as a prediction of inward rotation / supination. Speed ​​and distance monitoring can be performed, which can include a pedometer based on a measurement structure, such as a contact measurement or a time-in-the-air measurement. Jump height can also be measured, such as by using contact or time-in-the-air measurement. Lateral cutting force can be measured, including differential forces applied to different parts of the shoe 100 during cutting. Sensor 16 can also be positioned to measure shear forces, such as lateral sliding of the foot in the shoe 100. As an example, additional sensors can be incorporated into the side of the upper 120 of the shoe 100 to sense the force against the side.

[0118] The data or measurement results thus obtained can be applied to sports training purposes, including improving speed, power, explosive power, consistency, technology, etc., as described later. Port 14, module 22 and / or external device 110 can be configured to provide active real-time feedback to the user. For example, the teaching or training process can be configured to analyze sports activities and provide teaching and / or other feedback based on such activities, as described later. In one example, port 14 and / or module 22 can be placed in communication with a computer, a removable device, etc., so as to transmit the results in real time. In another example, one or more vibration elements can be included in the shoe 100, which can help control the movement by vibrating a part of the shoe, such as the features disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 6,978,684, which is incorporated herein by reference and becomes a part of this article. In addition, data can be used to compare sports, such as comparing sports with past sports of the user to show a consistent direction, improvement or lack of degree, or comparing the movement of the user with the same movement of another user, such as the swing of a professional golfer. Further and more detailed examples are described below.

[0119] The system 12 may also be configured for "all-day activity" tracking to record the various activities performed by the user over the course of a day. The system 12 may include specific algorithms for this purpose, such as in the module 22, the external device 110, and / or the sensor 16. The system 12 may also be used to control applications other than data collection and processing applications based on movements made by the user detected by the sensor 16, such as for use in the control of the external device 110, such as a computer, television, video game, etc.

[0120] A single article of footwear 100 containing a sensor system 12 as described herein may be used alone or in combination with a second article of footwear 100' having its own sensor system 12', such as a pair of shoes 100, 100', such as Figure 10-12 The sensor system 12' of the second shoe 100' generally includes one or more sensors 16' connected to a port 14' via a sensor lead 18', the port being connected to an electronic module 22'. Figure 10-12 The second sensor system 12' of the second shoe 100' is shown to have the same construction as the sensor system 12 of the first shoe 100. However, in another embodiment, the shoes 100, 100' may have sensor systems 12, 12 of different constructions. Both shoes 100, 100' are configured for communication with an external device 110, and in the embodiment shown, each of the shoes 100, 100' has an electronic module 22, 22' configured for communication with the external device 110. In another embodiment, the shoes 100, 100' may have a port 14, 14' configured for communication with the same electronic module 22. In this embodiment, at least one shoe 100, 100' may be configured for wireless communication with the module 22. Figure 10-12 Various modes for communication between modules 22, 22' are shown.

[0121] Fig.10 A “mesh” communication mode is shown, wherein the modules 22 , 22 ′ are configured for communication with each other, and are also configured for communication with an external device 110 independently. Fig.11 A "daisy chain" communication mode is shown, where one module 22' communicates with an external device 110 through the other modules 22. In other words, the second module 22' is configured to communicate signals (which may include data) to the first module 22, and the first module 22 is configured to communicate signals from both modules 22, 22' to the external device 110. Likewise, the external device communicates with the second module 22' through the first module 22 by sending signals to the first module 22, which communicates the signals to the second module 22'. In one embodiment, the modules 22, 22' may also communicate with each other for purposes other than passing signals to or from the external device 110. Fig.12A "stand-alone" communication mode is shown, wherein each module 22, 22' is configured for independent communication with an external device 110, and the modules 22, 22' are not configured for communication with each other. In other embodiments, the sensor systems 12, 12' may be configured for communication with each other and / or with an external device 110 in other ways.

[0122] Figure 22-23B An additional embodiment of a sensor system 12 for use with an article of footwear 10 as described above is shown. Fig. 22 As shown, the shoe sensor system 12 can be incorporated into an insole member 137 that includes four sensors 116 connected to the port 14 via leads 18. The insole member 137 can be a foot contacting member, such as an insole, or can be an insole positioned below the foot contacting member. In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. Fig. 22 The sensor system 12 shown may be incorporated into different types of sole components. Fig. 22 In the embodiment of the present invention, the port 14 is connected to an antenna 17 for transmitting signals from the sensor 16 to an external electronic device (not shown) described herein. The port 14 can be connected to an electronic module 22 as described above, and the antenna 17 can be a component of the module. In another embodiment, the electronic module 22 may not be included, and the antenna 17 can be a component of the port 14 and configured for wireless communication directly with the external device. It should be understood that in any embodiment, the antenna 17 can be implemented with sufficient hardware and other components to allow data to be transmitted to the external device. Figure 3-4 As shown in 6-8, Fig. 22 In the embodiment of FIG. 1 , sensor 116 is positioned similarly to the sensor of insert 37 .

[0123] Fig. 22 In the illustrated embodiment, the sensor 116 may be used with the Figure 3-4 The sensor 16 of the embodiments 6-8 is configured differently. For example, Fig.23A and 23B In the embodiment shown, the sensor 116 may include contacts 40, 42 which are simple carbon contacts in cavities 41 in a sealed flexible membrane. Fig.23A and 23B The sensors 116 of the contacts 40, 42 shown may be configured as described above. Figure 3-4 Sensor 16 of 6-8 can dynamically sense force changes similarly, or can be used as a binary on / off sensor in another embodiment. Fig.23A In the embodiment of the present invention, the body of the inner bottom member 137 can form a sealed flexible film that surrounds the sensor 116, and the lead 18 passes from the contact portions 40, 42 through the inner bottom member 137 to the port 14. Fig. 23BIn an embodiment of the present invention, the inner bottom member 137 may include a first flexible member 137A that surrounds the cavity 41 containing the sensor 116 and a second flexible member 137B connected to the first flexible member 137A. The lead 18 is shown as extending from the contacts 40, 42 through the first flexible member 137A to the port 14, but the lead 18 may extend through at least a portion of the second flexible member 137B in another embodiment. Fig. 23B In an embodiment, the first and second flexible members 137A, 137B can be made of different materials with different properties. For example, the first flexible member 137A can be made of a flexible, durable and / or waterproof material, such as thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), silicone or other polymer materials. The second flexible member 137B can be made of a cushioning material, such as a foam material commonly used in insoles and sock liners.

[0124] Embodiments of systems and methods for analyzing sports activities may also be used for different clothing items and / or other devices for sensing motion. For example, a sensor system for a shoe item may include sensors, such as a 3-axis accelerometer, a 3-axis gyroscope sensor, and / or a compass, that can sense the biomechanical motion of a user's foot without using a pressure / force sensor. It should be understood that in one embodiment, all of these sensors may be incorporated into a single electronic module, such as module 22 as described above. In addition, sensor systems for other clothing items may utilize similar modules (i.e., having accelerometers, gyroscopes, and / or compass sensors) for detecting different types of biomechanical motion.

[0125] As another example, the shirt 90 or pants 91 may be provided with a sensor system 12 for sensing force, motion and / or other biomechanical parameters, such as Figure 17-19As shown. In these embodiments, shirt 90 and pants 91 include sensors 93 at the connection area, which communicate with port 94 via multiple leads 95. Module 22, which can be provided according to other embodiments described herein, can be connected to port 94 to collect data of reaction biomechanical parameters from sensor 93. In one embodiment, sensor 93 and lead 95 can be formed of flexible polymer material, and conductive granular material is dispersed therein. Lead 95 can have high-density conductive material to minimize the change of conductivity, and sensor 93 can have low-density conductive material, so that the compression and / or other deformation of sensor 93 can change the conductivity / resistance of the sensor. This change in conductivity / resistance can be used to indicate force and / or movement at sensor 93, similar to the shoe sensor system 12 described above. Module 22 can collect such data and communicate it to external device 110, similar to as described above. It should be understood that module 22 can be configured specifically for collecting data from sensor 93. In these embodiments, system 400 can be used to provide teaching and / or other feedback to users to help users form specific biomechanical movement patterns, such as for use in sports activities. Examples of such biomechanical movement patterns include throwing motions, basketball shooting motions, jumping forms for hurdles or high jumps, swinging motions (e.g., golf, baseball, hockey, tennis), dance motions, etc. It should be understood that the sensor system 12 described above for shoes 10, shirts 90, and pants 91 can be used in conjunction with other clothing items or other devices connected to other parts of the body. It should also be understood that any such sensor system can include any or both types of sensors 16, 93 as described above, in addition to or in combination with other types of sensors. In further embodiments, the system 400 and method 500 can be used in conjunction with other sensor systems or devices for sensing motion, including sensor systems incorporated into other clothing items.

[0126] An exemplary embodiment of a system 400 for analyzing athletic activity is shown in FIG. Fig. 20 and 21, and at least includes a sensor system 12, the sensor system being configured to sense a biomechanical parameter of a user when the user is in biomechanical motion, and includes at least one electronic device 110, which communicates with the sensor system 12, so that the electronic device 110 can receive data collected by the sensor system 12. The electronic device 110 is configured to analyze the data to determine whether there is a deviation from the desired biomechanical motion pattern in the biomechanical motion of the user, and can generate an indication to the user when determining that the operation is equivalent to the deviation of the desired biomechanical motion pattern. In one embodiment, the deviation can be determined by using a biomechanical motion template, as described in detail below. Such a template can be stored in the memory 304 of the electronic device 110. In this embodiment, the electronic device 110 can compare the data received from the sensor system 12 with the biomechanical motion template corresponding to the desired biomechanical motion pattern to determine any deviation from the template. The deviation from the template can indicate the deviation from the biomechanical motion pattern. It should be understood that the determination of "deviation" can include a threshold change, wherein the data is not considered to deviate from the template unless the threshold is exceeded.

[0127] The motion template can be obtained in various ways. As an example, the template can be included in a software application stored in the memory 304 of the electronic device 110 and / or obtained from other physical storage media. As another example, the template can be accessed by communication with another electronic device 110 (including from the electronic module 22), such as downloaded via the Internet or other network. As a further example, the template can be formed by a user, by selecting a desired motion pattern or recording the actual motion pattern of the user or another person. It should be understood that any such template can be stored in the memory 304.

[0128] Examples of biomechanical motion templates may be used in conjunction with embodiments of system 400, and method 500 include various stride and other running templates, such as templates for foot contact patterns, foot contact loads or forces, gait speed, step length, foot contact time, speed, distance, foot contact cadence, pronation / supination, walking forces, upper body motion, tilt, asymmetry, posture, and others. By incorporating sensor system 12 (e.g., Figure 3-4 and 6-8 or Figure 22-23BData collected by the system 400 and method 500 can be compared to one or more of these templates. Additional examples of biomechanical movement templates (which are used in conjunction with embodiments of the system 400 and method 500) include templates for: running form, throwing form (which can be modified for specific activities, such as baseball, football, softball, cricket), basketball shooting form, swinging form (which can be modified for specific activities, such as baseball, golf, tennis, hockey, etc.), kicking form (such as for soccer or football), skating or roller skating form, jumping form, climbing form, weightlifting or other static exercise form, posture, and templates corresponding to many other biomechanical movement patterns. Figure 17-19 The sensor system 12 shown and / or another type of sensor system may additionally or alternatively be used in conjunction with at least some of these templates. The templates may be formed based on a number of different subjects, including input from preferred or "correct" biomechanical movement patterns (e.g., coaches, trainers, sports medicine professionals, etc.), past biomechanical movement patterns of users, biomechanical movement patterns of famous athletes or other notable individuals, etc.

[0129] In one embodiment, multiple templates can be used for a single activity and / or for different activities. For example, multiple different types of templates can be used for a single activity, such as foot contact pattern templates, foot contact load templates, and other templates used in running activities. In one embodiment, multiple templates can be used by device 110 simultaneously for analyzing multiple different biomechanical motion patterns in a single activity. As another example, multiple different templates of the same type can be used, such as heel-to-ground, mid-foot-to-ground, forefoot-to-ground foot contact pattern templates. Further, the template (one or more) used in conjunction with the activity can be manually selected by the user or another person, automatically selected by the processor 302, or a combination of such techniques. For example, a user or another person can manually select a specific foot contact pattern template or a specific throwing form template to teach the user a specific foot contact pattern or throwing action. As another example, a user can select a specific activity, and device 110 can automatically select a template based on the desired activity, such as selecting different foot contact pattern templates for sprinting vs long-distance running vs football. It should be understood that automatic selection can be incorporated into the input from the user (e.g., past performance data, answers to questions, etc.). As a further example, a manually or automatically selected template may be further modified (manually or automatically) based on characteristics of the user (eg, height, weight, age, BMI, past performance, etc.) Other methods for selecting a template may also be used.

[0130] In one embodiment, the biomechanical motion template can be varied for different users. Different users can use different templates, and the content of similar templates can vary depending on the characteristics of each user (e.g., height, weight, age, BMI, health blockage, etc.). In one embodiment, the device 110 using the template can provide identification for the user, such as by user name, password, biometric ID, etc., and can store templates customized for each identified user. In another embodiment, the device 110 using the template can also be used to automatically select a template based on user characteristics without specifically identifying the user.

[0131] Fig.24 An exemplary embodiment of a method 500 for analyzing sports activity is shown, which may be used to Figure 20-21 The system 400 shown or another type of system 400 described herein for analyzing athletic activity. Fig.24 The embodiment of the method 500 is shown for the actions of an electronic device 110 (or some device) that communicates with the sensor system 12 as described above, and other actions may be performed by other components, such as the module 22 of the sensor system. For example, before the device 110 receives data from the sensor system 12, in one embodiment, the module 22 collects the data sensed by the sensor 16 and transmits the data to the device 110. The module 22 may optionally perform some processing of the data before transmission. In addition, the actions performed by the device 110 and / or the module 22 may involve the processor 202, 302, the memory 204, 304 and / or other components of such a device.

[0132] like Fig.24 At step 510 of the illustrated method 500, the device 110 receives data from the sensor system 12, which may be delivered via the module 22 or in another manner. In one embodiment, the device 110 receives data from the sensor system 12 in real time in a substantially continuous manner, which may be achieved in various embodiments by periodically delivering individual data units or data packets. In other embodiments, the device 110 may receive past data collected intermittently or in a single delivery. In further embodiments, the device 110 may receive data from a plurality of different sensor systems.

[0133] The device 110 then analyzes the data to determine if there are deviations in the user's biomechanical movements from the expected biomechanical movement pattern. Fig.24In the embodiment of the present invention, the device 110 determines whether there is a deviation by comparing the data with one or more templates that have been selected at step 520, and determines whether there is a match between the data and the template at step 530. In various embodiments, many different types of criteria can be used to determine whether a match or deviation exists. In addition, as described above, various predetermined thresholds can be used to determine deviation, thereby determining that a deviation does not exist unless the degree of deviation exceeds a certain threshold. Figure 25-28 Views of comparisons between measurement data and one or more templates are shown and described in more detail below.

[0134] After determining whether there is a deviation, the method 500 ends, or the device 110 continues to analyze additional data received from the sensor system 12 at step 510. If no deviation is detected, then in one embodiment the device 110 can optionally generate a success indication for the user at step 540. This success indication can take one or more different forms, including any form described herein for the deviation indication. If a deviation is detected, then at 550 the device 110 generates a deviation indication for the user. This indication can be in one or more different forms, including visual, tactile, auditory and other indications. For example, a visual indication can be provided on a display portion of the device, wherein the indication can be displayed as text, graphics, color (e.g., indicating success or red indicating deviation), or other visual displays. Visual indications can also be provided by flashing lights or other components. As another example, a tactile indication can be provided by a vibration motor or other vibration device associated with the device 110. Different vibration modes, intensities, frequencies, etc. can be used to indicate different results (success vs. failure). As a further example, an auditory indication can be provided by a speaker or other sound device associated with the device 110. The auditory indication may take the form of speech, beeps, whistles, bells, and other sounds that may be understood to indicate success or failure. Other different types of indications may be generated, and it should be understood that the type of indication (one or more) provided may depend on the capabilities of the device. Combinations of indications may also be used. Indications may additionally or alternatively be generated by transmitting a signal to another device so that the other device produces the indication as described above. In addition, the indication of success and / or failure may be displayed to the user in real time, or may be shown at a later time, such as after the activity is completed.

[0135] In one embodiment, the user may be provided with the option to select one or more different types of indications to be generated, and may select different "good" and "bad" indications. In another embodiment, the device 110 may provide the user with the ability to select the "tone" of the indications. For example, the device 110 may allow the user to select: a "coach" mode, in which the indication of success or failure is more authoritative and commanding; a "partner" mode, in which such indications are more supportive and encouraging; a "competitive" mode, in which such indications are characterized by being more competitive; a mode in which imaginary or funny symbols make such prompts more interesting or entertaining, etc. Such indication modes may be implemented by an avatar displayed by the device 110 to appear to speak to the user. The user may further be provided with the ability to select and / or design the avatar utilized by the device 110, including visual appearance, voice, personality, etc.

[0136] In addition to the information about whether the user's movement deviates from the template, the device 110 may provide more indication information. In one embodiment, the deviation indication as described above may also include an indication of the degree of deviation. For example, on the device 110 having the visual display 308, the degree of deviation may be indicated by a numerical value, a graphical display (e.g., Figure 25-28 ), display of different colors, shapes, concentrations, and other visual indications, or combinations thereof, to indicate a greater or lesser deviation. As another example, on a device 110 with a sound output, a sound may be emitted, the pitch, volume, rhythm, etc. of which may vary and other such auditory indications or combinations may also be used to indicate a greater or lesser deviation. As a further example, on a device 110 with a tactile output (e.g., a vibration motor), different tactile sensations may be produced to indicate a greater or lesser deviation, such as vibrations of different intensities, rhythms, etc., as well as other such tactile indications or combinations thereof. The device 110 may be further provided with an additional performance monitoring application to allow a user to dynamically monitor his / her performance indicators during an activity and / or retroactively after the activity is completed.

[0137] The device 110 described herein may include one or more applications or other software to provide teaching information to the user, which may utilize one or more different types of templates described herein. The template may be included in the software and / or may be obtained from an external source, such as by custom generation, downloading from an external device and / or storage medium, etc. This software may be specifically configured to be used for a single activity, a biomechanical motion pattern, or a type of sensor system, or may be used in combination with multiple activities, multiple biomechanical motion patterns, and / or multiple different types of sensor systems. In one embodiment, the software may incorporate multiple templates for a single activity, utilizing data input from one or more types of sensor systems. In addition, this software may incorporate user data, such as height, weight, gender, BMI, actual recorded motion data, etc., and these types of data may be manually input, downloaded from separate storage media, collected from measurements obtained through the sensor system 12, and / or obtained by other means. Further, this software may provide various degrees of user control and interaction. For example, a user may select a specific activity and a specific type or teaching input type for the software. As another example, a user or another person (such as a coach, trainer, clinician, medical professional, etc.) may specifically involve or create a template or modify an existing template.

[0138] A device 110 provided with such software can display real-time results of an activity, such as real-time biometric athletic data, real-time indications of conformance and / or deviation from a desired template, real-time information from other users (e.g., other participants in a competition or activity group, social network contacts, etc.), and other types of real-time activity. It should be understood that real-time results can be more effectively combined with a small, mobile device 110 that a user would carry / wear during the activity. A device 110 provided with such software can additionally or alternatively provide collected past information, such as by providing an activity summary with activity data and / or analysis. For example, the software can generate a post-activity summary that can include performance data, success in conformance with a desired template, comparisons to past performances of other users or users, etc., which can be provided in a variety of forms.

[0139] In one embodiment, the device 110 and / or related software can provide gradual teaching feedback to gradually guide the user to the desired biomechanical motion pattern in increments. Gradual or incremental teaching can be useful or necessary in some cases because rapid changes in biomechanical motion patterns can increase the risk of injury. One mode of implementing the gradual or incremental teaching performed by the device 110 is to change the biomechanical motion template to return to a more familiar or normal template for the user after a specified amount of use (e.g., a specified amount of time, number of repetitions, travel distance, etc.). For example, a runner who mainly lands on his heel would like to gradually change his / her foot contact pattern to a main midfoot or forefoot contact pattern, such as in the process of 3-6 months. In one embodiment, the gradual transition can be achieved by initially using the desired foot contact template for only a small portion of the running process, and then returning to the usual (e.g., heel landing) template and / or stopping the use of the template after the specified portion is completed. Template use can gradually increase with continued running. As an example, it is initially expected that the foot contact template can be used for about 10% of the length of each run, and the use of the expected template can be increased by 5% every week until 100% of the use. It should be appreciated that such gradual or incremental teaching may be used to assist in transitioning from any foot strike pattern to any other foot strike pattern, or between other types of different biomechanical movement patterns.

[0140] In another embodiment, one or more intermediate templates may be used that can guide the user to a transitional motion pattern between the user's current motion pattern and the final desired motion pattern. As an example, a runner attempting to transition to a primarily heel strike to a midfoot or forefoot strike may utilize a foot strike template that encourages less heel strike than the runner's current foot strike, but does not encourage as strong a midfoot or forefoot strike as the final desired motion pattern. Fig. 27 An intermediate template 606 is shown between the runner's actual motion data 605 and the final desired foot strike template 604, as described below. In some embodiments, multiple intermediate templates may be utilized to more gradually achieve the transition from one biomechanical motion pattern to another. Intermediate templates may also be used gradually, as described above.

[0141] It should be understood that similar gradual use of templates and / or use of intermediate templates can be applied to the teaching of other biomechanical movement patterns, and in other applications, more or less gradual processes may be appropriate. In addition, the device 110 and related software may include algorithms that automate some aspects of such gradual or incremental teaching. For example, in one embodiment, the device 110 can automatically apply template use and / or intermediate template use, or can allow the user to select such automatic use features. In another embodiment, the device 110 can apply specific user selections, such as selecting a specific intermediate template or selecting a speed that can advance the gradual template use. In a further embodiment, the device 110 can be used for specific user designs of templates, including intermediate templates, and applying specific user designs for training programs.

[0142] Figure 25-28 1 shows a diagram of various foot contact pattern templates that may be used according to one embodiment, and a diagram comparing actual data to such templates. It should be understood that Figure 25-28 1 shows a schematic diagram of the processing that occurs through the device 110 in analyzing sports activities. In one embodiment, the device 110 can generate a signal that reflects similar Figure 25-28 A view of current / real-time or past analysis as shown, such as via a GUI display, printing, or other means. Fig.25 Shown based on Figure 3-4 and 6-8 and Figure 22-23B An example of a foot contact template 601 (dashed line) of maximum pressure or force measured at the sensor 16 location in the sensor system 12 in FIG. Deviations from the template 601 may occur if too much or insufficient pressure or force is applied to one or more sensors 16. Hypothetical data 602 collected from a sporting activity is Fig.25 , and a threshold tolerance 603 is also shown. Fig.25 As shown, the pressure measured at the heel exceeds the expected value in template 601 and is outside the threshold tolerance 603, while the pressure measured at the first and fifth metatarsal bones is less than the expected value and is also outside the threshold tolerance 603. In addition, in this example, the pressure measured at the first metatarsal bone is slightly greater than the expected value of template 601, but within the threshold tolerance 603. Thus, in this example, the data measured at the heel, first metatarsal, and fifth metatarsal bones are considered to deviate from the template, and the data measured at the first metatarsal bone is consistent with the template. This can be considered to be a deviation from the template and a heavy foot strike at the heel, depending on the rules defined for managing deviations. In various embodiments, deviations can be considered to occur based on the number of sensors that deviate from or conform to the template, the overall degree of deviation from or conformance to the template, or other factors or a combination of these factors. Furthermore, in one embodiment, the device 110 can display a display similar to that for each foot strike. Fig.25The template (i.e., "ideal" foot strike) is displayed as a bar graph (using display 308) with "actual data" bars that move dynamically so that the runner can monitor each foot strike and make adjustments as desired. In another embodiment, template 601 can utilize foot strike forces measured at each sensor 16 (e.g., relative to other sensors 16) rather than absolute force measurements, which can compensate for inaccurate recording of the user's weight.

[0143] Figure 26-27 An additional example (dashed line) of a foot contact template 604 based on both measured impact pressure and timing / sequence is shown. Figure 3-4 and 6-8 and Figure 22-23B The deviation from the template occurs if too much or insufficient pressure or force is applied to one or more sensors 16 and / or if the sequence and / or contact time of the impacts at each sensor 16 deviates from the expected sequence or timing. Hypothetical data 605 collected from a sporting activity is shown as a solid line in 26-27. It should be understood that threshold tolerances for pressure and / or timing may be used in these embodiments, but are not shown. Fig.26 As shown, the pressure measured at the heel exceeds the expected value in the template and occurs at approximately the same timing, but with a larger contact interval. In this same example, the pressure measured at the first and fifth metatarsals is slightly less than the expected value in template 604 and has approximately the same contact interval, but occurs at a later timing than template 604. Further, in this example, the pressure measured at the first phalanx is approximately the same as the expected value in template 604 and has approximately the same contact interval, but occurs at a later timing than template 604. Depending on the rules governing the definition of deviation, this foot strike may be considered to be a heel strike that is too heavy and will form a deviation from template 604. Fig. 27 Shown with Fig.26 The same data 605 and templates 604, and also showing intermediate templates 606 (dash-dotted lines) that may be used in a gradual teaching process to change a user's performance towards the final target template 604, as described above.

[0144] Fig.28 A further example of a foot contact template 607 (dashed line) is shown based on the timing / sequence of the impacts at Figure 3-4 and 6-8 and Figure 22-23B16 in the sensor system 12. In this embodiment, the data from the sensor 16 is not itself dynamic and includes only binary "active" and "inactive" data. In other words, in this embodiment the sensor 16 only detects force and does not measure force quantitatively, and when certain threshold pressures have been applied to the sensor 16, the system 12 will read that the sensor is "active." In various embodiments this functionality may be based on the construction of the module 22 and / or the capabilities of the sensor 16. A deviation from the template occurs when the sequence and / or contact time of the impact at each sensor 16 differs from the expected sequence or timing. It should be understood that threshold tolerances for timing may be used in these embodiments, but are not shown. Hypothetical data 608 collected from a sports activity is shown as a solid line in 28. As shown Fig.28 As shown, the contact time measured at the heel is greater than the contact time in the template, and the activation of the other three sensors 16 is later than set by the template. Depending on the rules governing the definition of deviation, this foot strike is considered to be too centered on the heel and will constitute a deviation relative to the template 607.

[0145] Fig.29 Another example of a possible graphical display that may be generated by device 110 to indicate a deviation (or lack thereof) based on real-time analysis of the data is shown. Fig.29 In the embodiment, the device 110 can have a display unit 308, which uses a foot graphic 309 to display one or both feet of the user. In this embodiment, different colors or concentrations can be used to display the local force or impact of each foot contacting the ground. In addition, different colors or concentrations can be used to display whether the local force or impact is higher or lower than the template setting. In this way, the foot graphic 309 can provide the user with an indication of deviation or compliance with the template. It should be understood that in one embodiment of the user, the "higher" or "lower" value can be an absolute value, which can depend on the user's weight, or in another embodiment it can be a relative value, such as the relative force on the heel compared to the midfoot. Different types of graphic displays can be used for different types of sensor systems, such as a graphic display of actual biomechanical actions such as throwing, running, jumping, etc. relative to a template motion pattern.

[0146] In one embodiment, module 22 and / or electronic device 110 may include GPS module 209, which is configured to detect the position of the user, as described above. In addition, in one embodiment, device 110 may include mapping application or other such software, which can work in combination with the data from GPS module 209. Such software can also work in combination with environmental information, terrain information and other information related to the user's position. "Environmental information" used herein includes information about the environment around the user's position, such as buildings or historical landmarks, business, parks, memorials, museums, entertainment areas or activity areas and other places of interest. "Terrain information" used herein includes information about the terrain at the user's position, such as altitude, slope, ground conditions (such as time delay, cute pictures, grass, thick or high grass, flowing or still water, sidewalks, swamps, wet or snow-covered ground, indoors, etc.), and other information about terrain. In one embodiment, environmental information and terrain information can be obtained by communicating with an external server or other devices, and can be related to the device 110 that transmits the user's position to an external server and receives information from an external server based on position information. In other embodiments, at least some environmental and / or terrain information may additionally or alternatively be included in software or may be obtained from a computer-readable storage medium connected to device 110. In further embodiments, device 110 may be configured to provide upcoming environmental features or terrain changes based on the user's path.

[0147] In one embodiment, the device 110 may include software that generates a customized route based on the location information received from the GPS module 209 in combination with environmental information and / or terrain information. Information about the user's location can be used to provide a running path for the user, which passes through or through the area of ​​interest to the user. Input from the user, such as input about environmental and / or terrain preferences, and specific distance, rhythm, running time or other motion inputs can also be used. For example, in one embodiment, the device 110 can be used to generate a five-kilometer running or cycling path that passes through a famous architectural landmark. Such a landmark can be specifically identified by the user and / or can be automatically identified by the device 110. The user's general preference input for architectural landmarks can be used to perform automatic identification, or such landmarks can be identified based on other information. Many such preferences can be combined into a single run. In another embodiment, the device 110 can be used to generate a five-kilometer path through certain terrains, such as an incline or slope, certain types of ground, etc. Again, multiple such preferences can be combined into a single run. In a further embodiment, the method can be used to generate a path that incorporates both desired environmental characteristics and desired terrain characteristics. Device 110 may also be configured to alter an existing route of travel based on the same type of information.

[0148] In one embodiment, device 110 may include, it is based on environmental information and / or terrain information lower or change the biomechanical motion template use. For example, a runner may wish to use a foot contact pattern, step length, inclination, etc. for a terrain, and use a different foot contact pattern, step length, inclination, etc. for another terrain. In one embodiment, this environment or terrain information can be received from user input, can be automatically received from another source based on the location information received from GPS module 209 and combined with environmental information and / or terrain information. Other inputs from the user can also be used, such as input related to template preferences for specific types of terrain and specific distances, rhythms, running time or other motion inputs. Pre-existing rules can be set to manage the terrain associated with its template, and such rules can be set and / or automatically specified by the user. In one embodiment, the user can manually input terrain information to device 110 (e.g., by selecting from a directory), and if necessary, device 110 can automatically switch to different templates based on this terrain information. In another embodiment, based on location information, terrain information can be automatically obtained, such as by communicating with an external device as described above. The device can modify the biomechanical movement template based on the topographic information, as described below, which can include changing the template and / or switching to a different template.

[0149] Fig.30An embodiment of a method 700 for providing a template to be used is shown, which incorporates terrain information obtained based on the user's location detected by the GPS module 209, as described above. It should be understood that the device 110 and / or certain components in the device 110 (e.g., the processor 302 and / or the memory 304) can be used to perform this method 700. At step 710, the device 110 receives location information for the user from the GPS 209. In one embodiment, at step 720, the device 110 can then generate an indication of the user's location, such as a map graphic on the molded display portion 308. The user's location is not necessarily displayed, and in another embodiment it can be optional. At step 730, the device 110 then obtains terrain information based on the user's location. As described above, the terrain information can be obtained from information stored in the memory 304 or other storage media connected to the device 110, from an external server or other device 110, or a combination of these means. The device 110 can continuously update the terrain information as the location information changes, and if no terrain changes are detected at step 740, the process repeats receiving more location information (at 710) and moving forward, as described above. If different terrain is detected at step 740, the device 110 determines whether a different biomechanical motion template is needed at step 750. If a different template is not needed, the process repeats receiving more position information (at 710) and proceeds as described above. If a different template is needed, the device 110 changes the template based on the different terrain at step 760. In one embodiment, the modification is automatically performed by the device 110 based on pre-existing rules. In this configuration, in one embodiment, the fact that the template has been changed can be indicated to the user, and such indication is completed visually, audibly and / or tactilely. In another embodiment, the device 110 can change the template by prompting the user to manually select a different template, and a limited catalog of templates can be optionally provided, which can be considered appropriate based on pre-existing rules. In one embodiment, the device 110 can simultaneously execute the method 700 for multiple different motion templates, including multiple templates based on input from a single sensor system 12 and / or from multiple sensor systems 12. It should be understood that the method 700 can be used in conjunction with a pre-planned route. For example, method 700 may be used for a marathon route and may assist a user by identifying necessary changes in biomechanical motion based on changing terrain, and notifying the user of upcoming changes in terrain and associated motion changes. If data from GPS module 209 indicates that the user is not following the route, device 110 may also be configured to dynamically update the route.

[0150] As described above, in one embodiment, one or more templates can be created by the user by recording the user's actual motion pattern. In one embodiment, the user can identify an "ideal" motion pattern or series of motion patterns and create one or more templates for future activities, as well as incorporate other information from the recorded motion pattern for such future activities. For example, the user can perform a run that is considered to be "ideal", including at least one ideal biometric motion pattern, such as an ideal foot contact pattern, stride length, foot contact force, etc., and this ideal biometric motion pattern (one or more) can be set as one or more templates (e.g., by using device 110). Other information related to the ideal run can also be recorded, such as distance, speed, route, estimated calories burned, etc., and this information can be used to create an "ideal run" template for following to run again. Similar technology can be used for other activities.

[0151] In another embodiment, the device 110 and related software can provide users with the ability to review the performance indicators of previous activities and identify successful parts and / or parts that need improvement. This feature can be incorporated into the creation of the "ideal" activity as described above, and can provide users with the ability to modify certain aspects of the template (one or more) for the "ideal" activity. In addition, the record of past performance indicators can enable users to track performance, improvement, trend, proximity, etc. over time, and the device 110 can provide such past data for access and review. The type of information tracked by the device 110 can include the degree of success consistent with various templates and additional information, including but not limited to speed, distance, steps and repeatability, energy used jump height / distance, step length and any other information mentioned elsewhere in this article. The data recorded from the activity can be uploaded from the recording device 110 to another device 110, such as through the "synchronization" process used in the art. One or more devices 110 can thus record the cumulative performance indicators for many different activities over time, and further processing and refinement can be performed to provide such data in a form that is easy for users to review. In one embodiment, the recorded data and / or analyzed data can be uploaded to a remote server / website for access via a web page, and can be additionally shared with an online "community" where users can compare progress and activities with other users. The online community can also have filtering capabilities, such as allowing users to compare information with others with similar physical conditions, activity levels, ages, etc. The online community can also have a "challenge" capability to allow one user to challenge another user in terms of achieving an achievement, such as more strictly complying with a biomechanical movement template. The data and other information obtained from the user can also be easily accessible to social networks as described below, and it should be understood that social networks can be integrated with online communities or otherwise related to them. Further, in one embodiment, the device 110 used in conjunction with such performance indicators can form a detailed user profile, which includes performance data and related personal and other information. Such user profiles can also be used in online communities as described above and / or in social networks as described below. As more data is collected, the device (one or more) 110 can provide a closer display of customized data, analysis, and suggestions or instructions for improvement.

[0152] In one embodiment, the device 110 and associated software may provide one or more data entry screens for the user to enter personal data that may be used to construct a user profile. For example, the user may be prompted to enter physical data that may affect system performance and template selection, such as age, gender, height, weight, etc. As another example, the user may be prompted to enter identification information, such as name, birthday, login information (e.g., username and password), etc. As a further example, the user may be prompted to enter preference information, such as interests, terrain and / or environmental preferences, color and layout preferences, and general software functionality preferences, including feedback preferences, such as the form(s) of success / failure indications, data collected, analyzed and / or displayed, and other functionality preferences. As another example, the user may be prompted to enter data regarding a planned future activity that utilizes the device 110 and system 400, such as the length and intensity of the activity, the specific activity purpose, the desired functionality of the device 110 for the activity, and other such information.

[0153] The device 110 and associated software may also be configured to receive and incorporate new hardware and peripherals (e.g., a new sensor system 12, an augmented reality device, etc.), and the device 110 may be configured to receive and communicate data input from various types of hardware. As new hardware is added (e.g., a new sensor system 12), the user profile may be updated accordingly.

[0154] In another embodiment, the device 110 and associated software can provide guidance to the user to help conform to the biomechanical movement template. For example, for a template for a running rhythm or speed, the device 110 can provide a song or beat that has a rhythm or beat that corresponds to the desired rhythm or speed. Other examples will occur to those skilled in the art.

[0155] In another embodiment, the device 110 and associated software may provide a safety feature that is activated when the device 110 senses an incident (e.g., a fall) based on the data received from the sensor system 12. For example, the device 110 may detect a fall or other major discontinuity in the data, and may prompt the user to confirm whether there is a safety or health issue. If the user indicates that a problem exists, or if no response is received within a set time period, the device 110 may contact an emergency responder, such as by phone call, SMS, email, or other means. Depending on the capabilities of the various sensors, the device 110 may also forward information, such as respiration, heart rate, body temperature, etc.

[0156] In another embodiment, the device 110 and associated software can be used in conjunction with a social networking application. For example, performance indicator data can be compared with data from other social network contacts. As another example, the collected performance indicator data can be converted into "points" or "coins" for a social networking online game, which users can use to modify or further play the game. This can provide users with an additional source of encouragement for performance and practice purposes.

[0157] As those skilled in the art will appreciate from the present invention, various aspects described herein can be implemented as methods, data processing systems, or computer program products. Thus, these aspects can take the form of a complete hardware implementation, a complete software implementation, or a combination of software and hardware. Then, these aspects can take the form of a computer program product stored by one or more physical computer-readable storage media or storage devices, which has a computer-readable program code or instruction, embedded in or on a storage medium. Any suitable physical computer-readable storage medium can be used, including hard disks, CD-ROMs, optical storage devices, magnetic storage devices, and / or any combination thereof. In addition, various invisible signals representing data or events described herein can be transmitted between a source and a destination in the form of electromagnetic waves traveling through a signal-conducting medium (e.g., metal wires, optical fibers, and / or wireless transmission media (e.g., air and / or space)).

[0158] As described above, some aspects of the present invention can be described in the general context of computer executable instructions, such as program modules, and are executed by a computer and / or its processor. Typically, program modules include routines, programs, targets, components, data structures, etc., which execute specific characters or implement specific abstract data types. Such program modules can be contained in a non-transient computer-readable medium of an entity, as described above. Some aspects of the present invention can also be implemented in a distributed computing environment, where the characters are executed by a remote processing device, which is connected via a communication network. The program module can be located in a memory, such as the memory 204 of module 22 or the memory 304 of the external device 110, or in an external medium, such as a game medium 307, which can include a body with a memory storage device or a remote computer storage medium. It should be understood that module 22, external device 110 and / or external medium can include complementary program modules for use together, such as in a special application. It should also be understood that for the purpose of simplicity, a single processor 202, 302 and a single memory 204, 304 are shown and described in the module 22 and the external device 110, and the processor 202, 302 and the memory 204, 304 may respectively include multiple processors and / or memories, and may include a system of processors and / or memories.

[0159] Various embodiments of the sports activity analysis system described herein provide features and advantages that are superior to the prior art. For example, sensor systems, devices and methods described herein can provide detailed automatic teaching to guide users to change biometric motion patterns in a safe, healthy and efficient manner. Embodiments described herein can also provide enhanced capabilities for users to dynamically and in real time monitor his / her performance, and can be reviewed. Embodiments described herein also provide guidance and assistance to users to improve performance during activities. Embodiments described herein can further provide assistance to runners, cyclists, triathletes, etc. in designing routes for practice and in navigating unfamiliar routes. Other advantages can be expected by those skilled in the art.

[0160] Several alternative embodiments and examples have been described and shown herein. Those skilled in the art will appreciate the possible combinations and variations of the features and components of the various embodiments. Those skilled in the art will further appreciate that any embodiment may be provided in any combination with other embodiments disclosed herein. It should be understood that the present invention may be implemented in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or core features of the present invention. Therefore, the examples and embodiments of the present invention are illustrative rather than restrictive in all respects, and the present invention is not limited to the details given herein. The terms "first", "second", "top", "bottom", etc. used herein are only for the purpose of display and do not limit the embodiments in any way. In addition, the term "plurality" used herein refers to any number greater than one, either alone or in combination, and may be an unlimited number if necessary. Further, as used herein, "providing" an article or device broadly refers to making an available or operable article for future actions on the article, rather than meaning that the party providing the article has manufactured, produced or supplied the article, or that the party providing the article already owns or controls the article. Thus, although specific embodiments have been shown and described, many modifications can be conceived without significantly departing from the spirit of the present invention, and the scope of protection is limited only by the scope of the accompanying claims.

Claims

1. A system for analyzing sports activities, comprising: An article of footwear comprising a sensor system comprising a plurality of force sensors engaged with the article of footwear and located at different locations on the article of footwear, wherein the force sensors are configured to sense forces applied by a foot of a user, and wherein the sensor system is configured to collect data based on force input from the sensors and for transmitting the data; and An electronic device in communication with a sensor system, wherein the electronic device includes a processor configured to perform: receiving data from a sensor system; and A graphical display based on the data is generated, the graphical display including a real-time visual depiction of force levels sensed by each of the plurality of force sensors.

2. A computer-assisted method for analyzing sports activities, comprising: receiving, at a processor of the electronic device, force data from a sensor system coupled to the article of footwear, the sensor system comprising a plurality of force sensors engaged with the article of footwear and located at different locations on the article of footwear, wherein the sensors are configured to sense forces applied by a foot of a user, and wherein the force data is based on force input from the sensors; and A graphical display based on the force data is generated, the graphical display including a real-time visual depiction of force levels sensed by each of the plurality of force sensors.

3. A non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising computer-executable instructions configured to cause an electronic device to perform the method according to claim 2.

4. A system for analyzing sports activities, comprising: An article of footwear comprising a sensor system comprising a plurality of force sensors engaged with the article of footwear and located at different locations on the article of footwear, wherein the force sensors are configured to sense forces applied by a foot of a user, and wherein the sensor system is configured to collect data based on force input from the sensors and for transmitting the data; and An electronic device in communication with a sensor system, wherein the electronic device includes a processor configured to perform: receiving data from a sensor system; and A graphical display is generated based on the data, the graphical display including a visual depiction of the force level sensed by each of the plurality of force sensors and including a visual depiction of changes in the force level sensed by each of the plurality of force sensors over time.

5. A computer-assisted method for analyzing sports activities, comprising: receiving, at a processor of the electronic device, force data from a sensor system coupled to the article of footwear, the sensor system comprising a plurality of force sensors engaged with the article of footwear and located at different locations on the article of footwear, wherein the sensors are configured to sense forces applied by a foot of a user, and wherein the force data is based on force input from the sensors; and A graphical display is generated based on the data, the graphical display including a visual depiction of a force level sensed by each of the plurality of force sensors and including a visual depiction of a change in the force level sensed by each of the plurality of force sensors over time. 6 . A non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising computer-executable instructions configured to cause an electronic device to perform the method according to claim 5 .

7. An insert configured to engage with a sole structure, the insert comprising: an insert member configured to engage the sole structure and comprising a flexible material surrounding a plurality of sealed cavities located at various locations on the insert member; a sensor system including a plurality of force sensors, each force sensor housed in one of a plurality of cavities, wherein each force sensor includes a pair of contacts oppositely positioned within and sealed within the cavity, and wherein each force sensor is configured to sense a force applied to the force sensor by increased engagement between the contacts; a port coupled to the insertion member and configured to communicate with an external electronic device; and A plurality of wires are connected to two contacts of the plurality of force sensors and extend through the insertion member to the port such that the wires connect the force sensors to the port to enable data to be collected from the sensors through the port by an external electronic device.

8. The insert according to claim 7, wherein: The contacts are carbon contacts.

9. The insert according to claim 7, wherein: The insertion member further includes a first flexible member including a flexible film formed of the flexible material and surrounding all cavities, and a second flexible member formed of a cushioning material and connected to the first flexible member.

10. A system comprising the plug-in according to claim 7 and an external electronic device, wherein: The external electronic device is an electronic module configured to be removably connected to the port.

11. An article of footwear comprising a sole structure and an upper member connected to the sole structure, wherein: The insert according to claim 7 is engaged with the sole structure.

12. An insert configured to engage with a sole structure, the insert comprising: an insert member configured to engage the sole structure and including a flexible membrane surrounding a plurality of cavities, and a flexible cushioning member formed of a cushioning material and connected to the flexible membrane; a sensor system including a plurality of force sensors, each force sensor housed in one of the plurality of cavities and configured to sense a force applied to the force sensor; a port coupled to the insertion member and configured to communicate with an external electronic device; and A plurality of wires are connected to two contacts of the plurality of force sensors and extend to the port such that the wires connect the force sensors to the port to enable data to be collected from the sensors through the port by an external electronic device.

Images