Foot presence signal processing system and method

Abstract

To provide a foot presence signal processing system and method capable of determining that a foot has been properly or completely housed in footwear by accurately specifying a position or a direction of the foot by using as few sensors as possible.SOLUTION: A foot presence sensor system for active footwear products may include: a sensor housing configured to be disposed on or in an insole of the product; and a controller circuit disposed in the sensor housing and configured to trigger one or a plurality of automatic functions of the footwear based on a foot presence sign. In an example, the sensor system includes a capacitive or magnetic sensor configured to sense a change in proximity of a body to the sensor in the footwear. The sensed proximity characteristics can be used to update an automatic footwear function such as an automatic lacing function, or can be used to determine the number of steps, foot landing force, and moving speed, or other information relating to the foot or relating to the footwear.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 19

Description

[Background technology]

[0001] Various shoe-type sensors have been proposed to monitor various conditions. Brown has developed a sensor shoe for monitoring foot conditions. In the patent document 1 entitled “Tracking the Condition of a Foot,” several shoe-type sensors are Brown suggests that the foot force sensor should be relatively thin, flat, flexible, and elastic. The foot force sensor may include an insole made of a layer of a dielectric material. , including a conductive interconnection means having an electrical resistance that varies based on the applied compressive force. can be done.

[0002] Brown further explains that people with diabetes or who put too much pressure on one part of their foot can develop ulcers. The article discusses the types of shoes that should be worn by people with various types of foot problems that tend to cause pain. The resistor may include a force sensing resistor (FSR), and may be coupled to the resistor. The switch circuitry provides an alert to the wearer that a threshold pressure level has been reached or exceeded. An alarm unit can be activated to

[0003] Devices for automatically tightening articles of footwear have been proposed in the past. In Patent Document 2, entitled "Automatic Tightening Shoe," the upper part of the shoe and a first fastener attached to the opening and closing member, the first fastener being detachable from the opening and closing member. and a second fastener capable of engaging the fastening member to hold the fastening member in a fastened state. Liu teaches a drive unit mounted in the heel portion of the sole of the shoe. The knit includes a housing, a spool rotatably attached to the housing, a pair of drawstrings, and a monitor. Each string has a first end connected to a spool and a second end corresponding to a string eye of the fastener. The motor unit is coupled to the spool and has a second end that corresponds to the spool. The unit drives the rotation of a spool within the housing, causing the drawstring to be wound around the spool. The second fastener is operable to be pulled toward the first fastener. Liu also teaches a guide tube unit through which a drawstring can be threaded. . [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Pat. No. 5,929,332 [Patent Document 2] U.S. Patent No. 6,691,433 [Brief description of the drawings]

[0005] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic exploded view of components of an active article of footwear in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. [Figure 2A] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a sensor system and a powered lacing engine according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 2B] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a sensor system and a powered lacing engine according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 2C] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a sensor system and a powered lacing engine according to an exemplary embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram of components of a powered lacing system according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 illustrates pressure distribution data for a standard or average foot (left) and a pes cavus (right) in a footwear article when a user of the footwear article is standing. [Figure 5A] 1 is a schematic diagram of a capacitive foot presence sensor in an insole of an article of footwear in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. [Figure 5B] 1 is a schematic diagram of a capacitive foot presence sensor in an insole of an article of footwear in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a capacitive sensor system for foot presence detection in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a first capacitive foot presence sensor according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of a second capacitive foot presence sensor according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 9A] 1 is a schematic diagram of an example of a capacitive foot presence sensor electrode according to an illustrative embodiment. [Figure 9B] 1 is a schematic diagram of an example of a capacitive foot presence sensor electrode according to an illustrative embodiment. [Figure 9C] 1 is a schematic diagram of an example of a capacitive foot presence sensor electrode according to an illustrative embodiment. [Figure 10] 13 is a flow chart illustrating an example of the use of foot presence information from footwear sensors. [Figure 11] 11 is a flow chart illustrating a second example of the use of foot presence information from a footwear sensor. [Figure 12] 4 is a schematic graph of a first time-varying information from a capacitive foot presence sensor. [Figure 13] 11 is a schematic graph of a second time-varying information from a capacitive foot presence sensor. [Figure 14] 11 is a schematic graph of a third time-varying information from a capacitive foot presence sensor. [Figure 15] 11 is a schematic graph of a fourth time-varying information from a capacitive foot presence sensor. [Figure 16] 1 is a schematic graph of time varying information and signal morphology limits from a capacitive foot presence sensor in accordance with an exemplary embodiment; [Figure 17] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of an example of a capacitive foot presence sensor located beneath a dielectric stack in a midsole of an article of footwear. [Figure 18] FIG. 13 is an example schematic diagram including a graph showing the effect of a dielectric filler on a capacitive indication signal from a capacitive foot presence sensor. [Figure 19] 11 is a schematic diagram of an example of a graph showing a portion of a third capacitive indication signal from a capacitive foot presence sensor in footwear. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0006] In the drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, like numbers indicate the same parts as in different figures. Similar numbers with different letter suffixes represent the same The drawings may illustrate various exemplary embodiments of the present invention. 1 illustrates generally various embodiments discussed therein.

[0007] The concept of self-tightening shoelaces first gained widespread popularity in the 1989 film, Marty McKinnon in "Back to the Future II" The fictional power-laced Ni Nike has since launched its "Backpack" line of sneakers. Power Racer, which looks similar to the prop version from the movie "To the Future II" The company has released at least one version of the sneaker, but the internal mechanical system used from the footwear platform and its surroundings, these are not necessarily mass produced or for everyday use. In addition, the motorized lacing system Previous designs for the 1990s were relatively poor due to high manufacturing costs, complexity, assembly difficulties, and limited availability. These include problems such as the need to install new devices and weak or fragile mechanical mechanisms, which are the cause of many problems. The inventors have addressed, among other things, some or all of the above problems. A modular footwear platform for accommodating electric and non-electric lacing engines that solves the above problems. The components described below provide a variety of benefits, including: Efficient automatic lacing engine, robust mechanical design, robust control algorithms, and reliable These include, but are not limited to, high performance, efficient assembly processes, and retail-level customization. Various other advantages of the components described below will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0008] In one example, the modular automatic lacing footwear platform includes a lacing engine. a midsole plate secured to a midsole in the article of footwear for receiving The midsole plate design allows the lacing engine to be activated as late as possible during the purchase process. Platforms can be added to the midsole plate and modular automated footwear platform. Other aspects of the platform allow different types of lacing engines to be used interchangeably. For example, the automatic lace-tightening engine described below can be replaced with a manual lace-tightening engine. Alternatively, a fully automatic electric lacing engine with foot presence sensing or other functions may be incorporated into the standard It can be housed within the midsole plate.

[0009] The automated footwear platform discussed herein includes an outsole actuator interface. This can include a fastening control for the end user as well as a transparent protective outer casing. Visual feedback is provided using LED lighting projected through the sole material. The actuator may be a lacing engine or other automated footwear platform component. Tactile and visual feedback can be provided to the user to indicate the state.

[0010] In one example, the footwear platform is configured to detect when the foot is in the shoe. When a foot is detected, one or more and / or a number of footwear functions or processes, e.g., automatically, or by further input or command by the user. For example, the foot can be properly seated in the footwear against the insole ( When the footwear is seated, the control circuitry performs lacing, data collection, footwear diagnostics, or other programs. The process can be started automatically.

[0011] Activating or initiating an automatic lacing or footwear tightening mechanism too early may result in the For example, the foot may not fit completely into the insole. If the lacing engine is activated before the user has consented, the user will have to sew the rest of the foot into the footwear. This can make it difficult to insert and requires the user to manually adjust the tension of the laces. The inventors therefore believe that the problem to be solved is how to properly or completely Whether or not the toe, midsole and heel parts are housed in the footwear article, The court recognized that the test included determining whether the insole was properly aligned with the insole portion that was being fitted to the insole. The inventors further noted that the challenge is to, for example, reduce the cost and assembly costs of the sensors and the complexity of the device. To accurately determine the foot position or foot orientation using as few sensors as possible in order to reduce the We recognized that this includes the following:

[0012] The solution to these problems is to provide a sensor in the arch and / or heel area of ​​the footwear. In one example, the sensor is adapted to sense changes in a nearby electric field. The change in the electric field, or the change in capacitance, occurs when the foot enters the footwear. or exiting, which includes when one part of the foot is farther from the sensor than another part of the foot. In one example, the capacitive sensor is integrated into or connected to the lacing engine housing. In one example, at least a portion of the capacitive sensor is stored in the lacing engine. one or more conductive interconnects provided on the outside of the housing for connection to a power source or processing circuit within the housing. Includes the continuation part.

[0013] Capacitive sensors suitable for use in foot presence detection can have a variety of configurations. A capacitive sensor can include a plate capacitor, where one plate (electrode) is , e.g., to move in response to pressure or changes in pressure on one or more of the plates. In one example, the capacitive sensor includes a plurality of traces, which For example, it is disposed substantially in a plane parallel to or coincident with the top surface of the insole. Such traces are not sealed with air gaps (or other materials, e.g., Styrofoam). The AC drive signal is supplied by an excitation circuit. In one example, the electrodes are arranged in an alternating fashion. Such a capacitive sensor can have an interdigitated configuration. and based on interference of the electric field near the electrodes by the presence or movement of a foot or other object. The capacitance signal can be varied according to the capacitance.

[0014] In some instances, capacitance-based sensors are more reliable than mechanical sensors. They can be more reliable because, for example, capacitive sensors do not need to contain any moving parts. The electrodes of the capacitive sensor can be coated or covered with a durable electric field transparent material. Therefore, the electrodes are not subject to direct exposure to environmental changes, wetting, leakage, dust, or other contaminants. , so that humans or other objects do not come into direct contact with the electrodes of the sensor.

[0015] In some examples, a capacitive sensor indicates the amount of capacitance detected by the sensor; or It provides an analog output signal that indicates the change in capacitance. The output signal changes when the foot is near the sensor. may have a first value (e.g., corresponding to a low capacitance) and the output signal is The second value may have a different value (e.g., corresponding to a higher capacity) at different times.

[0016] In some instances, the output signal when the feet are present can provide further information. There can be a detectable change in the capacitance signal that correlates with the row step event. A detectable long-term drift in the capacitance signal can occur, which is dependent on the shoe construction. Wear and tear of materials, such as insoles, orthotics, or other components, and residual wear and tear. At least one of the life spans of the

[0017] In one example, the capacitive sensor generates a digital signal indicative of the amount of capacitance sensed by the sensor. a capacitance-to-digital conversion circuit configured to provide a capacitance-to-digital signal; In one example, the capacitive sensor detects whether the sensed capacitance value meets a predetermined threshold capacitance condition. a processor circuit configured to provide an interrupt or logic signal indicating whether In some instances, the capacitive sensor measures a capacitance characteristic relative to a baseline or reference capacitance value. The baseline or reference should be determined based on environmental changes or factors that may affect the sensed capacitance value. It may be updated or adjusted to accommodate certain other changes.

[0018] In one example, the capacitive sensor is located under the foot near the arch or heel area of ​​the shoe insole. The capacitive sensor may be substantially flat or planar. The cushioning material may be rigid or flexible and may be configured to conform to the contours of the foot. An air gap, which may have a relatively low dielectric constant or a low relative dielectric constant, is part of the capacitive sensor. Air gap between the capacitive sensor and the surface of the foot that may exist when the shoe is worn A relatively high dielectric constant, or a dielectric constant higher than air, is placed above the capacitive sensor to fill the gap. A gap filler may be provided that may have a compressible coefficient. In one example, the gap filler is selected based on the dielectric constant value and the footwear application. It provides a good compromise between sufficient sensitivity of the sensor and the suitability for the user under the feet. The design is selected to provide maximum comfort.

[0019] The following is a description of the electric lacing engine, foot presence sensor, midsole plate, and platform. Various components of the automated footwear platform, including various other components of the form Most of this disclosure focuses on sensing the presence of the foot as a trigger for the powered lacing engine. Although the focus is on human-powered lace-up engines, many aspects of the designs discussed could be used with human-powered lace-up engines, e.g. Can be interfaced with foot presence sensors to automate other footwear functions, such as data collection and physiological monitoring. It can also be applied to other circuits or functions such as the "Automatic Footwear Platform". The term "automatic" as used means a system that operates without specific user input. The term is not intended to cover only "automated footwear platforms." The term includes a variety of powered and manually operated, automatically and manually operated, For tightening laces or retention systems of an object, or for controlling other aspects of active footwear. The device may include a mechanism for detecting the presence of a

[0020] FIG. 1 is a schematic of an exploded view of components of an active article of footwear in accordance with one example embodiment. The example of FIG. 1 includes a lacing engine 110, a lid 120, an actuator 130, and The shoe has a midsole plate 140, a midsole 155, and an outsole 165. The system 100 includes a lacing engine 110. The device may include user replaceable components, including one or more foot presence sensors. In one example, the lacing engine 110 may include: The capacitive foot presence sensor may include or be coupled to a capacitive foot presence sensor. Although not shown in the first embodiment, a plurality of lacing engines 110 may be provided on the side of the lacing engine 110 facing the foot. In one example, the electrodes of the capacitive foot presence sensor may include a lacing electrode. The engine 110 may be housed therein, may be integrated into the housing of the lace-up engine 110, or may be attached to the lace-up engine 110. 10. It may be located at another location near the lacing engine 110 to provide a power source or can be coupled to a processing circuit using one or more electrical conductors.

[0021] The assembly of the powered lacing system 100 in the example of FIG. The actuator 130 then fixes the midsole 155 to the The outer sole plate 140 can be inserted into an opening in the side of the outer sole plate 140, which can be used to This is the other side of the interface button that can be embedded in the 165. Next, the lacing The engine 110 is inserted into the midsole plate 140. The tightening engine 110 may be coupled to one or more sensors located elsewhere in the footwear. Other assembly methods can be similarly implemented to construct the powered lacing system 100.

[0022] In one example, the lacing system 100 includes a continuous loop of lacing cable. and the tightening lace is aligned with the spool inside the lace engine 110. To complete the installation, the lid 120 is inserted into the fastening means of the midsole plate 140. 140. The slits 142 are secured in a closed position and can be hooked into recesses in the midsole plate 140. The lid 120 captures the lacing engine 110 and allows for alignment of the lacing laces during operation. Can help maintain.

[0023] The midsole plate 140 includes a lacing engine cavity 141 and inner and outer lacing A guide 142, a front flange 143, a rear flange 144, and an upper (top) surface and a lower (bottom) surface and actuator cutout 145. 1 is configured to receive a lacing engine 110. In this example, the lacing engine The gin cavity 141 holds the laced engine 110 in the lateral and front-to-rear directions. Therefore, it does not include a mechanism for locking the engine 110 in the cavity 141. Thus, the laced engine cavity 141 is a laced engine 110 in the laced engine cavity. Detents ( ) along one or more side walls to more securely hold the insert in the bit 141. The term "detent," "tab," or other mechanical mechanism may be used.

[0024] The lace guide 142 guides the tightening lace into position relative to the lace tightening engine 110. The string guide 142 includes a chamfered edge and a downwardly sloping slope. This can help guide the laces into a desired position relative to the lace engine 110. In this example, the lace guide 142 includes an opening in the side of the midsole plate 140. , which are many times wider than the diameter of a typical drawstring, although other dimensions can be used.

[0025] In the example of FIG. 1, the midsole plate 140 is molded or contoured. It includes a forward flange 143 that extends further inwardly of the midsole plate 140. The exemplary forward flange 143 provides additional support under the arch of the footwear platform. However, in other examples, the forward flange 143 is designed to In this example, the rear flange 144 extends both inwardly and outwardly. The illustrated rear flange 144 is connected to the lacing engine 110 and includes an outer diameter having a portion. This provides enhanced lateral stability.

[0026] In one example, one or more electrodes are embedded in the midsole plate 140; or may be disposed thereon and form part of a foot presence sensor, e.g. part of a capacitive foot presence sensor. In one example, the lacing engine 110 includes a sensor circuit, which is connected to the midsole. The sensor circuit is electrically coupled to one or more electrodes on the plate 140. The sensed electric field or capacitance information from the midsole plate 140 is used to determine the In one example, the electrodes are located at the very top of the anterior flange 143. The electrodes extend from the leading edge to the rearmost edge of the aft flange 144, and in other examples, the electrodes may extend from one or the other of the flanges. extends over only a portion of both.

[0027] In some examples, the footwear or powered lacing system 100 includes one or more sensors. or connected to this, which may refer to the presence of the foot in the footwear, the absence of the foot in the footwear, or One or more such foot presence sensors can monitor or identify characteristics of the foot position. Based on this information, footwear incorporating the powered lacing system 100 may be configured to perform a variety of functions. For example, a foot presence sensor can be configured to provide binary information regarding the presence or absence of a foot in the footwear. In one example, a processor circuit coupled to the foot presence sensor can be configured to digitally Receives and interprets digital or analog signal information to provide binary information regarding the presence or absence of a foot in the footwear If the binary signal from the foot presence sensor indicates that a foot is present, the powered lacing system 1 10. The lace tightening engine 110 in the shoe rack 100 can be activated, for example, to tighten laces or other footwear. Automatically increasing or decreasing tension on the fastening means to tighten the footwear, for example around the foot; In some examples, the lacing engine 110, or other portion of the article of footwear, It includes processor circuitry capable of receiving or interpreting a signal from the presence sensor.

[0028] In one example, a foot presence sensor provides information regarding the position of the foot as it enters the footwear. The powered lacing system 100 generally operates when the foot is in the footwear, e.g. Only when properly positioned and contained in all or part of the insole of the product , for example to tighten a lace. The foot presence sensor may be configured to sense whether the foot is in contact with, for example, an insole or other part of the footwear article. It can provide information about the mechanism as to whether it is fully or partially retracted. The procedure may not be interrupted or delayed until information from the sensors indicates that the feet are in the correct position. Cut.

[0029] In one example, a foot presence sensor is provided to provide information regarding the relative position of the foot within the footwear. For example, a foot presence sensor can be configured to detect whether footwear is a good “fit” for a given foot. Whether or not there is a problem is determined by, for example, one or more of the arch, heel, toe, or other components of the foot. A plurality of such foot components, e.g., corresponding locations on a piece of footwear configured to receive such foot components. In one example, the sensing can be configured to determine the relative position of The foot presence sensor detects the position of the foot or foot component over time based on a predetermined or previously recorded With respect to the recorded reference position, the laces may loosen over time, or the foot may move The sensor can be configured to sense whether the pressure changes due to natural expansion and contraction.

[0030] In some examples, the foot presence sensor may be an electrical, magnetic, thermal, capacitive, pressure, optical, or other sensor. The device may include a sensor device adapted to sense or receive information regarding the presence of a body. For example, the electrical sensor may be configured to measure impedance characteristics between at least two electrodes. The impedance sensor may be configured to measure the position of the body such as the foot. When near or adjacent to the electrical sensor, the electrical sensor can provide a sensor signal having a first value. When the foot is moved away from the electrode, the electrical sensor generates a sensor signal having a different second value. For example, the first impedance value may be associated with an empty footwear state. and a second, smaller impedance value can be applied to the footwear state being occupied. Can be associated.

[0031] The electrical sensor may include an AC signal generator circuit and a high frequency signal generator circuit. The antenna may include an antenna configured to transmit or receive. Based on the proximity of the body, one or more electrical signal characteristics, such as impedance, frequency, or The receiver can receive and analyze the signal amplitude to determine whether a body is present. Received signal strength indicator (RSSI) is the received Provides information about the power level of a radio signal, e.g., at a certain baseline or reference value. The change in RSSI relative to the surrounding area can be used to identify the presence or absence of a body. For example, the 2.4GHz, 3.6GHz, 4.9GHz, 5GHz, and 5.9GHz bands One or more of these WiFi frequencies may be used. In some examples, the kilohertz range, e.g. For example, a frequency of about 400 kHz can be used. In one example, the change in the power signal is It can be detected in the watt or microwatt range.

[0032] The foot presence sensor may include a magnetic sensor. The first magnetic sensor may include a magnet and a magnetometer. In one example, the magnetometer may be located at or near the lacing engine 110. The magnet can be located at a location away from the lacing engine 110, such as on the second sole, or It can be placed in an insole or the like that is configured to be worn over the outsole 165 . In some instances, the magnets are embedded in the foam or other compressible material of the second sole. The user presses down on the second sole, for example while standing or walking. and the corresponding change in the magnet's position relative to the magnetometer is sensed and reported via a sensor signal. It is possible.

[0033] The second magnetic sensor is adapted to sense changes or interference in a magnetic field (e.g., via the Hall effect). When the body is in the vicinity of the second magnetic sensor, The sensor can generate a signal indicative of a change to the surrounding magnetic field. The magnetic sensor is a Hall effect sensor that changes its voltage output signal in response to changes in the detected magnetic field. The voltage change of the output signal may be a function of, for example, the current in a conductor and a voltage perpendicular to the current. Due to the production of a voltage difference across an electrical signal conductor, such as across a magnetic field It could be.

[0034] In one example, the second magnetic sensor is configured to receive an electromagnetic field signal from the body. For example, Varshavsky et al. have reported on a paper entitled "Secure Detector Using Magnetic Field-Based Identification." Devices, systems and methods for security U.S. Patent No. 8,752, entitled “Crystal-Based Identification Using Magnetic Field” The '200 specification teaches the use of the body's unique electromagnetic signature for authentication. In one example, a magnetic sensor in an article of footwear can identify the current user as the owner of the shoe. Authenticating or verifying via a detected electromagnetic signature, e.g., identifying one or more designated Automatically tighten the product according to your lacing preferences (e.g. tightening profile) It can be used to authenticate or verify that something should be done.

[0035] In one example, the foot presence sensor senses a temperature change in or near a portion of the footwear. When the wearer's foot enters the article of footwear, the thermal sensor is configured to measure the internal temperature of the article. changes when the wearer's own body temperature differs from the ambient temperature of the footwear product. Therefore, the thermal sensor Based on the temperature change, it can provide an indication of whether or not feet may be present. do.

[0036] In one example, the foot presence sensor is a capacitive sensor configured to sense a change in capacitance. The capacitive sensor may include one plate or electrode, or the capacitive sensor may include a can include a multi-plate or multi-electrode configuration. is further described herein.

[0037] In one example, the foot presence sensor includes an optical sensor, the optical sensor having a line of sight, e.g. It can be configured to specify whether or not the footwear cavity is interrupted, such as between the sides of the footwear cavity. In the present invention, the optical sensor is an optical sensor that can be covered by the foot when the foot is inserted into the footwear. When the sensor indicates a change in the sensed light or brightness conditions, it will notify the presence or position of the foot. Signage can be provided.

[0038] Any of the various types of foot presence sensors discussed herein may be used individually. It is possible to combine information from two or more different sensors or different types of sensors. Used together, they can be used to measure foot presence or absence, foot orientation, and footwear fit. More information and / or other information regarding the foot and / or its relationship to footwear can be provided.

[0039] 2A-2C are diagrams illustrating a sensor system and an electric lacing engine according to some exemplary embodiments. FIG. 2A shows various external mechanisms of an exemplary lacing engine 110. 1, which includes a housing structure 150, case screws 108, and string passages 112 (string guide reliefs). 112), string passage transition portion 114, spool recess 115, button opening 12 2, button 121, button membrane seal 124, programming header 128, spool 13 1, and a string groove 132 in the spool 131. Other designs may be used as well. For example, other types of switches could be used, such as sealed dome switches, or membrane seal switches. In one example, the lacing engine 110 may include a lacing engine 124, or the like. Lace up the circuitry inside the engine 110 and connect it to a circuitry outside the engine 110, such as an external foot presence sensor. (or components thereof), external actuators such as switches or buttons, or other One or more interconnects or electrical contacts for connecting to a device or component of It may include a .

[0040] The lacing engine 110 is held in place by one or more screws, such as case screws 108. The case screw 108 is located near the first drive mechanism and is connected to the lacing engine 110. The case screws 108 can also improve the structural integrity of the outer seam, e.g. 10 to aid in the assembly process, such as by holding the housing structure 150 together for ultrasonic welding of the It also works for.

[0041] In the example of FIG. 2A, the lacing engine 110 is configured to The shoe includes a lace passage 112 that receives a shoe lace or fastening lace when installed in the shoe. , the passageway walls may include chamfered edges to provide smooth guide surfaces, and during operation, The laces can contact and move within it. The smooth guide surface portion of the lace passage 112 , a passage transition 114, which connects the string passage 114 to a spool recess 115. The spool recess 115 may be a wide portion of the passage transition portion 114. It transitions into a generally circular portion that closely matches the shape of the spool 131. 115 holds the tightening string wound on the spool, and also holds the position of the spool 131. Another aspect of the design is to provide additional support for holding the spool 131. In the example of FIG. 2A, the spool 131 extends through the flat upper surface. A string groove 132 and a spool shaft (not shown in FIG. 2A) extending downward from the opposite side. ) and resembles half of a yo-yo.

[0042] The exterior of the lacing engine 110 creates one or more mechanisms for the automatic footwear platform. The button opening 122 includes a button 121 that can be configured to move or adjust the Button 121 is used to operate various switches included in lace tightening engine 110. In some examples, the housing structure 150 can provide an external interface for In this example, the button membrane seal 124 is , clear plastic (or similar material) up to a few mils (thousandths of an inch) thick. This can be attached from the top surface of the housing structure 150, for example, covering the corners and then to the outside below. In this example, the button membrane seal 124 is a contact that covers the button 121 and the button opening 122. It is a vinyl film approximately 2 mils thick with an adhesive backing. Other types of buttons and Sealants can be used as well.

[0043] FIG. 2B shows a housing structure 150 that includes an upper portion 102 and a lower portion 104. In this example, the upper portion 1 02 includes case screw 108, string passage 112, string passage transition portion 114, and spool recess 115. , button opening 122, and button seal recess 126. The button seal recess 126 is a portion of the top 102 that is used to receive the button membrane seal 124. This is the part that has been given an undulating shape for this purpose.

[0044] In the example of FIG. 2B, the lower portion 104 includes a wireless charger access 105, a joint 106, and grease bulkhead 109. Also, although not clearly specified, case screws 108, as well as a case screw base for receiving the grease in the grease bulkhead 109. Various mechanisms for retaining the part are also shown. Grease bulkhead 109 is used to hold grease or Similar compositions around the drive mechanism are arranged to separate the various electrical components of the lace engine 110. The device is designed to be held in place.

[0045] The housing structure 150 may be embedded in one or both of the upper portion 102 and the lower portion 104 into a structural surface. The device may include one or more electrodes 170 embedded or attached thereto. Electrode 170 in the 2B example is shown coupled to bottom portion 104. In an example, the electrodes 170 comprise part of a capacitive foot presence sensor circuit (e.g., (See foot presence sensor 310 discussed below). Additionally or alternatively, electrodes 17 0 can be coupled to the upper portion 102. The electrode 170 coupled to the upper portion 102 or the lower portion 104 can be For wireless power transfer, or as part of a capacitive foot presence sensor circuit, or both In one example, the electrode 170 is a single electrode disposed on the exterior surface of the housing structure 150. or multiple portions, and in other examples, the electrodes 170 are disposed on the inner surface of the housing structure 150. Contains one or more parts.

[0046] FIG. 2C illustrates various internal components of the lacing engine 110 in accordance with one example embodiment. In this example, the lacing engine 110 includes a spool magnet 136, an O-ring seal 13 8, worm drive 140, bush 141, worm drive key, gear box 148, Gear motor 145, motor encoder 146, motor circuit board 147, worm gear 15 1. Circuit board 160, motor header 161, battery connector 162, and wireless charging header The spool magnet 136 further includes a magnetometer (not shown in FIG. 2C). An O-ring seal 138 helps track the movement of the spool 131 through the The laces are tightened around the shaft to keep out dirt and moisture that may get into the engine 110. The circuit board 160 functions as a foot presence sensor, such as capacitive foot presence sensor 310, described below. In one example, the device may include one or more interfaces or interconnects for In the embodiment, the circuit board 160 includes one or more trays that provide a portion of the foot presence sensor 310. It includes a conductive surface.

[0047] In this example, the main drive components of the lacing engine 110 are a worm drive 140, The worm gear 151, the gear motor 145, and the gear box 148 are included. 151 is arranged to prevent the worm drive 140 and the gear motor 145 from driving in the reverse direction. This allows the main force input from the tightening string through the spool 131 to be relatively large. This arrangement means that the worm gear can be disassembled into a worm gear and a worm drive tooth. Box 148 illustrates the mechanical properties resulting from active use of the footwear platform. of sufficient strength to withstand both the load or the tightening load resulting from tightening of the lacing system. The worm drive 140 is designed to protect against various damages to the drive system. It includes additional features that help protect parts that are vulnerable to damage, such as a worm drive key. The worm drive key is the drive shaft of the worm drive 140 that comes out of the gear box 148. The radial slots on the motor end connect with pins that run through the drive shaft. This arrangement allows The worm drive 140 is rotated axially (opposite the gear box 148). 2) to allow the bush 141 and the housing structure 15 to move freely, and these axial loads are 0, the gearbox 148 or the gear motor 145 may be subjected to an undue axial No force required.

[0048] FIG. 3 is a block diagram of components of a powered lacing system 300 according to an example embodiment. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of a system 300 that includes, but is not limited to, all of the components of a powered lacing system. The device includes several, but not all, of the above, such as an interface button 301 and a capacitive foot presence sensor 302. 10, a printed circuit board assembly (PCA) 320 having a processor circuit, a battery A charging coil 321, a charging coil 322, an encoder 325, a motion sensor 324, and a driving mechanism and a housing structure 150 that encloses the drive mechanism 340. The drive mechanism 340 includes, in particular, a motor 341, The motion sensor 342 may include a transmission 342, and a string spool 343. The sensor 324 may be, among others, a single or multiple axis accelerometer, a magnetometer, a gyrometer, or a housing structure. 150 or one or more structures within or coupled to the housing structure 150. The device may include other sensors or devices configured to sense movement of the component.

[0049] In the example of FIG. 3, the processor circuit 320 controls the interface button 301, the foot presence sensor 302, and the One or more of the sensor 310, the battery 321, the charging coil 322, and the driving mechanism 340 The transmission 342 communicates data or power signals with the motor 341. 3, the button 301 is coupled to the pool 343 to form the drive mechanism 340. , foot presence sensor 310, and environmental sensor 350 may be mounted externally or partially within the housing structure 150. is shown externally.

[0050] In an alternative embodiment, the button 301, the foot presence sensor 310, and the environmental sensor 35 One or more of the 10 may be enclosed within the housing structure 150. The foot presence sensor 310 is disposed within the housing structure 150 such that the sensor detects sweat, dust or debris. Minimizing or eliminating connections through the walls of the enclosure structure 150 , which can help increase the durability and reliability of the assembly.

[0051] In one example, the processor circuit 320 controls one or more aspects of the drive mechanism 340. For example, the processor circuit 320 controls the buttons 301, the foot presence sensor 310, and the motor. 324, and in response thereto, e.g., For example, the actuator 340 may be configured to control the drive mechanism 340 to tighten or loosen the footwear around the foot. In some examples, the processor circuitry 320 may additionally or alternatively Among other functions, acquiring or recording sensor information from the foot presence sensor 310 or other sensors. In one example, the processor circuit 320 is configured to issue instructions to register the Detecting the presence of a foot using the foot presence sensor 310; Detecting the orientation or position of the foot or detecting a predetermined gesture using the motion sensor 324 The actuator 340 conditions operation of the actuator 340 to one or more of the detections of the magnetic field.

[0052] In one example, the system 300 includes an environmental sensor 350. The information may be used to update or adjust the baseline or reference value for the foot presence sensor 310. As will be further explained below, the capacitance value measured by the capacitive foot presence sensor can be may change over time, for example in response to ambient conditions near the sensor. Thus, information from the environmental sensor 350 is used to control the processor circuit 320 and the foot presence sensor. At least one of the first and second capacitance values ​​may be adjusted by the second and third capacitance values. Can be configured.

[0053] FIG. 4 illustrates a typical or average footwear position in an article of footwear 400 when a user of the article of footwear is standing. FIG. 1 shows pressure distribution data for a typical foot (left) and a high arch foot (right). In this example, the relatively large plantar pressure areas are the heel region 401, the ball of the foot region 402 (e.g., between the arch and toe, and the big toe area 403 (e.g., the "big toe" area). However, as mentioned above, in the central region, for example the arch region or its vicinity, The inclusion of various active components (including, for example, foot presence sensor 310) in the area In one example, a footwear article including the chassis structure 150 may be used. The arch area is generally less noticeable or intrusive to the wearer. There is a possibility that this is not the case.

[0054] In the example of FIG. 4, a lacing engine cavity 141 can be provided in the arch area. One or more electrodes corresponding to the sensor 310 are disposed at or near the first location 405. The capacitance measured using an electrode placed at the first location 405 is It may be different depending on how close you are to position 405. For example, for an average foot and a cavus foot: This is because the surface of the foot itself changes from the first position 405 to a different position. In one example, the foot presence sensor 310 and the lacing engine 110 At least one of the positions corresponds to, for example, different foot characteristics of different users, and To improve the quality of the signal obtained from the presence sensor 310 (e.g., by a user or by a distributor), In one example, the footwear can be adjusted by a technician at the point of sale. The degree of sensitivity can be increased, for example, by increasing the level of the drive signal or by adjusting the foot presence sensor 310 and the foot This can be adjusted by varying the dielectric material placed between them.

[0055] 5A and 5B are diagrams illustrating a capacitive foot insole of an article of footwear in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a presence sensor. The capacitive foot presence sensor is a device that detects the presence of a foot when a product incorporating the sensor is worn. The object or body 550 may be provided below the surface, for example, of a foot.

[0056] In FIG. 5A, a capacitive foot presence sensor is coupled to a capacitive sensing controller circuit 502. In one example, the controller circuit may include a first electrode assembly 501A. The circuit 502 may be included in the processor circuit 320 or may be controlled by the processor circuit 320. In the example of FIG. 5A, the first electrode assembly 501A and the controller At least one of the roller circuits 502 is included within the interior portion of the housing structure 150. , or may be attached thereto, or may be coupled to a PCA within the housing structure 150. In one example, the first electrode assembly 501A is provided on a foot-facing surface of the housing structure 150. In one example, the first electrode assembly 501A can be disposed within or adjacent to the housing. The body structure 150 includes a plurality of traces extending across the entire inner upper surface area.

[0057] In FIG. 5B, a capacitive foot presence sensor is coupled to a capacitive sensing controller circuit 502. The second electrode assembly 501B may include a second electrode assembly 501B. The second electrode assembly 501B may include , may be mounted at or near an exterior portion of the housing structure 150, e.g. A flexible connector 511 can be used to electrically couple to a PCA inside the housing structure 150. In one example, the second electrode assembly 501B is provided on the foot-facing surface of the housing structure 150. In one example, the second electrode assembly 501B can be positioned adjacent to or on the frame. The housing structure 150 includes a flexible circuit that is fixed to an inner or outer surface of the housing structure 150 and includes one or more 3. The processor circuit 320 is coupled via a conductor.

[0058] In one example, the controller circuit 502 is an Atmel ATSAML21 E18B-MU, ST Microelectronics' STM32 L476M, or other similar devices. The controller circuit 502 includes, among other things, a first At least one electrode in the electrode assembly 501A or the second electrode assembly 501B An AC drive signal is applied to the pair and in response, the proximity of the object or body 550 to the electrode pair is The device can be configured to sense changes in the electric field based on corresponding changes in the electrical properties of the In one example, the controller circuit 502 controls the foot presence sensor 310. or includes or uses a processor circuit 320.

[0059] A variety of materials can be provided between the electrode assembly 501 and the object or body 550 being sensed. For example, the material of the electrode insulating housing structure 150, the material of the insole, the material of the insert 51 0, socks or other foot coverings, body tape, kinesiology tape The use of electrical insulation, electrical insulation tape, or other materials, for example, to change the dielectric properties of footwear, thereby To affect the capacitive detection sensitivity of a sensor that includes or uses pole assembly 501, The controller circuit 501 may be disposed between the body 550 and the electrode assembly 501. 02 is the sensitivity or signal to noise of the capacitance value sensed, for example, using the electrode assembly 501 To improve the ratio, the excitation or sensing parameters are updated based on the number or type of intervening materials. It can be configured to update or adjust the

[0060] In the example of FIG. 5A or FIG. 5B, a first electrode assembly 501A and a second electrode assembly At least one of the first and second inputs 501B is excited by a signal generator of the controller circuit 502. Thus, the electric field can be radiated from the upper, foot-facing surface of the electrode assembly. In some instances, the electric field beneath the electrode assembly is at least in part induced by the sensing electrode. Can be blocked using a driven shield placed underneath. The shield and the electrode assembly can be electrically isolated from each other. For example, the first electrode assembly When the bridge 501A is on one side of the PCA, the driven shield is on the lower or upper layer of the PCA. The PCA may be located in any one of the inner layers. The borne shield has a surface area equal to or greater than that of the first electrode assembly 501A. and can be centered directly under the first electrode assembly 501A. The driven shield receives a drive signal and in response drives the first electrode assembly 501 An electric field of the same polarity, phase, and amplitude as the X axis leg of the electric field generated by A. , or at least one of them can generate the same electric field. The electric field of the electrode repels the electric field of the first electrode assembly 501A, thereby forming a sensor field. It is important to isolate the diode from various parasitic effects, such as unwanted coupling to the ground plane of the PCA. A driven shield is similarly provided for use with the second electrode assembly 501B. For example, the second electrode assembly 501B may be provided as shown in the example of FIG. It can be provided above the housing structure 150, with a portion of the housing structure 150 serving as a driven shield. In addition, or instead, the conductive film may include a driven The shielding may be provided when the second electrode assembly 501B is provided at a location other than on the housing structure 150. If applicable, it may be provided elsewhere on the footwear article.

[0061] A preferred location for placing the housing structure 150 is in the arch area of ​​the footwear, which This is an area that is less likely to be felt by the wearer and less likely to cause discomfort to the wearer. One advantage of using capacitive sensing to detect the presence of a foot in footwear is that the The sensor is located in the arch area, making it easy for users to fit even if they have relatively or abnormally high arches. This includes ensuring that a quantitative sensor can function properly. For example, the amplitude or morphological characteristics of the sensor drive signal The morphology characteristic is the detected signal of the signal received from the capacitive sensor. The signal to noise ratio may be varied or selected based on the signal to noise ratio. The driving signal is, for example, a signal to be transmitted to the first electrode assembly 501A or the second electrode assembly 501B. One or more materials (e.g., socks, insoles, etc.) disposed between the body 550 To accommodate changes, the footwear can be updated or adjusted each time it is used.

[0062] In one example, the electrode assembly of the capacitive sensor, e.g., the first electrode assembly 501 A or the second electrode assembly 501B may be, for example, between electrodes oriented in the X and Y axes. In one embodiment, the sensor may be configured to sense the difference in signals between multiple electrodes. The ring frequency can be between about 2 and 50 Hz. In some examples, the capacitive foot The sensing technology is relatively invariant to sweat (moisture) in the insole or foot-enclosing socks Such moisture effects may result in a reduction in the dynamic range of detection. , since the presence of moisture can increase the volume being measured. However, in some instances, the dynamic range may be within the expected level of moisture in the footwear. is sufficient to counter this effect.

[0063] FIG. 6 illustrates a capacitive sensor system 600 for foot presence detection according to an example embodiment. The system 600 is shown generally at 604 in the drawings. 601 and 602. The electrode 602 may be, for example, a first electrode in the example of FIG. 5A or FIG. 5B that includes part of the foot presence sensor 310. The electrode assembly 501A and the second electrode assembly 501B can be formed in whole or in part. In the example of FIG. 6, the first electrode 601 and the second electrode 602 are connected to each other and to the body 550. Although shown as being vertically spaced apart, the electrodes may be spaced apart, e.g., as in the examples of Figs. 7-9C. As shown in detail in the example, the horizontal spacing can be similar. Electrodes may be arranged in a plane parallel to the lower surface of the body 550. In the example of FIG. 6 is configured as a transmitting electrode and coupled to a signal generator 610. The generator 610 includes a part of the processor circuit 320 in the example of FIG. The path 320 can be configured to generate a drive signal and apply it to the first electrode 601 .

[0064] Exciting the first electrode 601 with a drive signal from a signal generator 610 results in an electric field 61 5 can be generated mainly between the first electrode 601 and the second electrode 602. That is, The various components of the generated electric field 615 extend between the first electrode 601 and the second electrode 602. and other fringe components of the generated electric field 615 extend in other directions. For example, the fringe components may be reflected by the housing structure 150 (not shown in the example of FIG. 6). ) from the transmitting electrode or first electrode 601 and the receiving electrode or second electrode It can then terminate by returning to 602.

[0065] The information about the electric field 615 includes information about the change in the electric field 615 due to the proximity of the body 550. The second electrode 602 may include a second electrode 603, a third electrode 604, a fourth electrode 605, a fifth electrode 606, and a sixth electrode 607. The sensing signal from 02 is processed using various circuits to generate an analog or can be used to provide a digital signal.

[0066] For example, the field strength of the electric field 615 received by the second electrode 602 may be represented by an analog capacitive indicator signal A sigma-delta analog-to-digital conversion circuit configured to convert The electrical environment near the electrodes can be measured using an ADC 620. When the body 550 enters the electric field 615, which contains a fringe component of , a portion of the electric field 615 is shorted to ground instead of being received and terminated at the second electrode 602. or passes through the body 550 (e.g., instead of through air) before reaching the second electrode 6 02. This results in a change in capacitance which is transmitted to the foot presence sensor 310 and the process The signal can be detected by at least one of the signal processor circuits 320.

[0067] In one example, the second electrode 602 can receive the electric field information substantially continuously. The information can be sampled continuously or periodically by the ADC 620. The information from the ADC 620 can be processed or updated according to the offset 621. After that, a digital output signal 622 can be provided. In one example, the offset 621 can be a capacitance offset, which may be specified or programmed (e.g., internally in the processor circuit 320). Can be programmed or can be affected by changes in the environment over time, temperature, or other variable environmental characteristics. , can be based on another capacitor used to track

[0068] In one example, the digital output signal 622 may be, for example, a digital output signal that represents a capacitance value relative to a predetermined threshold. It may include binary information regarding the presence or absence of the body 550 determined by the comparison. In one example, the digital output signal 622 includes qualitative information about the measured capacitance. For example, (e.g., by the processor circuitry 320) may determine whether or not the body 550 is present. This can be used to provide guidance.

[0069] Periodically, or (for example, as determined using information from the motion sensor 324) Whenever the presence sensor 310 is inactive, the capacitance value is measured and a reference value, a base value, The foot or body can be stored as a foot presence sensor 310, a first electrode, or an environmental value. When the first electrode 601 and the second electrode 602 are approached, the measured capacitance is, for example, In some instances, one or more threshold capacitance levels may be decreased or increased. The measured signal can be stored, for example, in an on-chip register with the processor circuit 320. If the measured capacitance value exceeds a predetermined threshold, the body 550 is present in the footwear that includes the foot presence sensor 310. It is possible for the presence or absence of a

[0070] The foot presence sensor 310 and the electrodes 601 and 602 that comprise a part of the foot presence sensor 310 are as follows: It can take several different forms, as shown in some non-limiting examples below. In one example, the foot presence sensor 310 may be configured to measure the mutual capacitance between multiple electrodes or plates. The device is configured to sense or use information provided by the device.

[0071] In one example, the electrodes 601 and 602 are arranged in an electrode grid. The capacitive sensor used includes a variable capacitor at each intersection of each row and column of the grid. Optionally, the electrode grid may be arranged in one or more rows or columns. The voltage signal can be applied to the rows or columns, and the body or feet close to the surface of the sensor are locally This can affect the electric field, which in turn can reduce the mutual capacitance effect. The capacitance change at multiple points on the lid can be measured, for example, by measuring the voltage on each axis. In one example, the mutual capacitance measurement technique can be used to measure the distance between the grid points. It can provide information from multiple locations simultaneously.

[0072] In one example, the mutual capacitance measurement uses an orthogonal grid of transmitting and receiving electrodes. In such a grid-type sensor system, measurements are taken on multiple discrete XY coordinate pairs. In one example, capacitance information from multiple capacitors can be detected for each of the It can be used to determine the presence or orientation of a foot in an object. Capacitance information from multiple capacitors is acquired over time and analyzed to determine the presence or absence of a foot. In one example, the X-detection coordinate and / or the Y-detection coordinate can be determined. The rate of change information for either one is used to determine when the foot is properly or completely seated in the insole within the footwear. It can be used to determine whether or not a person has been accommodated.

[0073] In one example, the self-capacitance foot presence sensor uses the same XY grid as the mutual capacitance sensor. In a self-capacitance sensor, each column or row can operate independently. It is possible to independently detect the capacitive load of the body at

[0074] FIG. 7 illustrates a schematic diagram of a first capacitive foot presence sensor according to an exemplary embodiment. In this example, the first capacitive sensor 700 includes multiple parallel capacitive plates. The base is disposed on or in the housing 150 and includes, for example, a footwear including a first capacitive sensor 700. It is placed on or near the bottom of the foot when the product is worn. The foot presence sensor 310 includes or uses a first capacitive sensor 700 .

[0075] In the example of FIG. 7, four conductive capacitor plates are shown as 701-704. The plate can be made of a conductive material, such as a conductive foil. The foil can be flexible. and optionally embedded within the plastic of the housing structure 150 itself; Or it can be separate from the housing 150. Film, ink, deposited metal, or other It should be understood that any conductive material may be used, such as the materials shown in FIG. 01 to 704 are disposed in a common plane and spaced apart from one another to form individual conductive elements or electrodes. Complete.

[0076] The capacitance of a capacitor is a function of the dielectric constant of the material between the two plates that form the capacitor. In the first capacitive sensor 700, the capacitors are More than one capacitor plate 701 to 704 can be formed between each pair of capacitor plates. As designated in the figure as capacitors A, B, C, D, E, and F, Six valid capacities are formed by six unique combination pairs of tap plates 701 to 704. Optionally, two or more of the plates can be electrically coupled to form a That is, in one example, the capacitor can be electrically coupled A first capacitor plate 701 and a second capacitor plate 702 are connected to each other to provide a first conductor. 702, and third and fourth capacitor plates electrically coupled to provide the second conductor. 703 and 704.

[0077] In one example, the first capacitor plate 701 and the second capacitor plate 70 The capacitive effect between the two is represented by a pseudocapacitor, designated by the letter A in FIG. The capacitive effect between the first capacitor plate 701 and the third capacitor plate 703 is The second capacitor plate 702 is represented by a pseudo-capacitor denoted by the letter B. The capacitive effect between the fourth capacitor plates 704 forms a pseudocapacitor, designated by the letter C. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that each pseudocapacitor is represented by It will be understood that these terms represent the electric field extending between each pair. To this end, the capacitors formed by each pair of capacitive plates are designated by the letters used in Fig. 7. Identify the pseudo-drawn capacitors by calling them by their names (e.g., "A", "B", etc.). do.

[0078] For each pair of capacitor plates in the example of FIG. 7, the effective dielectric between the plates is The capacitor plates include an air gap (or other material) disposed between the plates. For each pair of capacitive plates, any part of the body or foot that is in close proximity to the respective pair of capacitive plates It can be part of the effective dielectric for that capacitive plate pair or That is, between each pair of capacitor plates, It is possible to provide a variable dielectric depending on the proximity of the body to the rate pair. For example, the body or the legs may The closer the plate pair is to the plate, the larger the effective dielectric value may be. As the capacitance increases, the capacitance value increases. This change in capacitance is controlled by the processor circuit 320. to indicate whether a body is at or near the first capacitive sensor 700. Can be used.

[0079] In the example of the foot presence sensor 310 including the first capacitive sensor 700, multiple capacitive sensors The driver / monitor circuitry can be coupled to plates 701-704. A monitor circuit can be associated with each pair of capacitor plates in the example of FIG. The drive / monitor circuit applies a drive signal (e.g., a time-varying voltage) to the capacitor plate pair. A capacitance reading can be received in response to a capacitance excitation signal (PAS) applied to the capacitor plate pair. Each drive / monitor circuit may have an associated capacitor (e.g., a first plate The variable capacitance value of the capacitor ("A") corresponding to the first plate 701 and the second plate 702 is measured. The device may be configured to measure a capacitance and may be further configured to provide a signal indicative of the measured capacitance value. The drive / monitor circuitry can have any suitable structure for measuring capacitance. In some instances, for example, the capacitance of the capacitor may be measured using different capacitors to provide an indication of the difference between the capacitance values. To achieve this, two or more drive / monitor circuits can be used together.

[0080] FIG. 8 illustrates a schematic diagram of a second capacitive foot presence sensor according to an exemplary embodiment. The example includes a second capacitive sensor 800 including a first electrode 801 and a second electrode 802. The foot presence sensor 310 may include or use a second capacitive sensor 800. In the example of FIG. 8, the first electrode 801 and the second electrode 802 are arranged along a substantially flat surface. For example, the drive circuitry, such as the processor circuitry 320, configured to generate an excitation or stimulation signal to be applied to the first electrode 801 and the second electrode 802. The same or a different circuit can be used to measure the change in capacitance between the first electrode 801 and the second electrode 802. The capacitance can be determined by the presence of the body or foot relative to the electrodes. For example, the first electrode 801 and the second electrode 802 may be affected by the housing structure 150. The foot may be placed on or near a surface of the foot, for example, when the foot is within footwear that includes the housing structure 150. In this case, the area is near the feet.

[0081] In one example, the second capacitive sensor 800 may have an electrode pattern, for example in an XY grid. Additionally or alternatively, the second container may include an etched conductive layer that forms a The electrodes of the quantitative sensor 800 are formed by etching multiple separate parallel layers of conductive material. It may for example be provided with vertical lines or tracks, forming a grid. In this or any other capacitive sensor, direct contact between the body or foot and the conductive layer or electrode is possible. For example, the conductive layer or electrodes can be embedded within the housing 150. Alternatively, the body or foot of the object to be detected may be coated with an electrical It can be made to interact with or affect the electric field characteristics in the vicinity of the pole, and the change in the electric field It is possible to detect the

[0082] In one example, the first electrode 801 is connected to a ground or reference, and the ground or A separate capacitance value can be measured with respect to the second electrode 802 relative to a reference. The signal to be generated is a function of the capacitance values ​​of the first electrode 801 and the second electrode 802. That is, the foot presence or foot detection signal may be based on the difference between the first electrode 8 8. The capacitance measurement is based on the difference between the separate capacitance signals measured using the first and second electrodes 801 and 802. It is possible.

[0083] 9A and 9B show schematics of a third example capacitive sensor 900 according to certain examples. FIG. 9C shows a schematic of an example of a fourth capacitive sensor 902. FIG. FIG. 9B shows a schematic top view of a sensor assembly 900 including a third capacitive sensor 900. 9C shows a schematic top view of the fourth capacitive sensor 902.

[0084] In the example of FIG. 9A, the third capacitive sensor 900 includes a first electrode trace 911 and a second The electrode region includes a first electrode trace 911 and a second electrode The traces 912 are separated by insulator traces 913. In one example, the first The pole trace 911 and the second electrode trace 912 may be made of copper, carbon, or silver or other suitable material. It can be a conductive material, FR4, flex, PET, or ITO or other The third capacitive sensor 900 may be deposited on a substrate made of a material or the like. The traces may include one or more flexible portions.

[0085] The first electrode trace 911 and the second electrode trace 912 form a third capacitive sensor 90 The electrode traces may be distributed over substantially the entire surface area of ​​the substrate. When the third capacitive sensor 900 is attached, it is in contact with the top side or upper surface of the housing structure 150. In one example, the first electrode trace 911 and the second electrode trace One or both of the traces 912 may be approximately 2 mm wide. In some instances, the width of the traces may vary depending on, among other things, the footwear. The selection can be based on the size of the insole or the type of insole. In order to maximize the signal-to-noise ratio of the capacitance value measured using the quantitative sensor 900, The first electrode trace 911 and the second electrode trace 912, or the insulator trace 91 3, or both, e.g., the distance between the trace and the body to be sensed, the in The sole material, gap filler, material of the housing structure 150, or other material used within the footwear Different trace widths can be selected depending on the material.

[0086] The third capacitive sensor 900 can include a connector 915. The connector 915 can include , can be mated with a suitable connector, for example, a PCA in the housing structure 150. The connector connects the first electrode trace 911 and the second electrode trace 912 to the processor. It may include one or more conductors for electrically coupling to the circuitry 320 .

[0087] In one example, the third capacitive sensor 900 includes input signal conductor 920A and input signal conductor The input signal conductor 920A and the input signal conductor 920B include one or more An input device, such as a dome button, corresponding to button 121 in the example of FIG. 2A. or other switches.

[0088] FIG. 9B shows a sensor assembly 901, which includes a third capacitive sensor 900, button 1 21A and button 121B, and membrane seal 124A and membrane seal 124B. 9, the adhesive is attached to the corresponding conductive surfaces of the input signal conductors 920A and 920B. The surface is joined to the button 121A and the button 121B. The membrane seal 124A and the membrane seal 1 24B is a button cover for protecting the buttons 121A and 121B from debris, for example. It is possible for the cover 121A and the button 121B to be glued thereon.

[0089] In the example of FIG. 9C, the fourth capacitive sensor 902 is connected to a first electrode trace 921 and a second The electrode region includes a first electrode trace 921 and a second electrode The traces 922 are separated by insulator traces 923. The electrode traces The fourth capacitive sensor 902 may include one or more flexible portions. The fourth capacitive sensor 902 can include a connector 925. The connector 915 can be coupled to a suitable connector, for example, to a PCA within the housing structure 150. can.

[0090] The inventors have realized that the problem to be solved is, for example, that all or a part of the foot presence sensor is a target foot. or from the body, e.g., by an air gap or other intervening material. Obtaining proper sensitivity of or proper response from a capacitive foot presence sensor The inventors have recognized that the solution involves multiple electrodes of a particular shape, size, and orientation. The poles are used to control the orientation and relative strength of the electric field that is produced when the electrodes are energized. That is, the present inventors have realized that the present invention includes a method for detecting the presence of a capacitive foot. We identified the optimal electrode configuration for use.

[0091] In one example, the electrodes of the fourth capacitive sensor 902 are connected to the first electrode trace 92. 1 and 2, the first electrode trace 921 and the second electrode trace 922 Each of the bases 922 has a plurality of separate fingers or traces that extend substantially parallel to one another. For example, the first electrode trace 921 and the second electrode trace 922 are 9C, the conductive fingers may be arranged in an alternating fashion. .

[0092] In some examples, the second electrode trace 922 can include a border or peripheral portion. , which extends substantially around the outer periphery or surface portion of the fourth capacitive sensor 902 and In the example of FIG. 9C, the second electrode trace 922 is substantially surrounded by the first electrode trace 921. The boundary line includes a perimeter that is substantially entirely around the top surface of the fourth capacitive sensor 902 assembly. In some other instances, the perimeter may extend around a smaller portion of the sensor. The inventors further discovered that the optimal electric field for detecting the presence of a foot is not parallel. Instead of including one or more traces or fingers, the first electrode trace 921 and Most or all of the fingers of the two electrode traces 922 are arranged substantially parallel to each other. For example, unlike the fourth capacitive sensor 902, the first capacitive sensor in FIG. The capacitive sensor 900 of FIG. 3 includes a first electrode trace 91 that includes, for example, vertically extending finger-like portions. 9. An upper portion of the first electrode trace 911 including a horizontally extending finger-like portion and a lower portion of the first electrode trace 911 including a horizontally extending finger-like portion. The first electrode trace 921 and the second electrode trace 922 include non-parallel fingers. The relative thickness can be adjusted to further increase the sensitivity of the sensor. The electrode trace 922 is three or more times thicker than the first electrode trace 921 .

[0093] In one example, for example, a first capacitive sensor 700, a second capacitive sensor 800, a third The foot presence sensor 310 uses a first capacitive sensor 900 and a fourth capacitive sensor 902. The capacitance value measured by the In response to the measured capacitance, the processor circuit 320 can provide a The drive mechanism 340 can be actuated to adjust the tension of the footwear around the ankle. Optionally, at least in part, the The invention may be implemented by a single processor, a processor executing software, or a hard-wired In one example, the drive mechanism 3 may be implemented by a combination of the components described above and software. Activating 40 includes (1) using one or more drive / monitor circuits to, for example, (1) monitoring a signal from the foot presence sensor 310 using a receiving circuit 320; Of the capacitance signals obtained, (for example, the memory registers of the processor circuit 320 and the stored in at least one of the memory circuits in data communication with the processor circuit 320. Determine which, if any, exhibit capacity that meets or exceeds a specified threshold. (3) determining the position, size, orientation, or other characteristics of the body or foot in the vicinity of the foot presence sensor 310; (4) characterizing the property based, for example, on various predefined thresholds being exceeded; and Depending on the characteristics, the operation of the drive mechanism 340 may be permitted, enabled, adjusted, or inhibited. include.

[0094] FIG. 10 illustrates an example method 1000 that includes using foot presence information from footwear sensors. 10 shows a flowchart of a foot presence sensor 310. In operation 1010, the example receives foot presence information from the foot presence sensor 310. The foot presence information includes receiving binary information (e.g., For example, see the interrupt signals discussed in the examples of FIGS. 12-14 ; or The information may include an indication of the likelihood that the foot is in the article of footwear. The electrical signal provided to the processor circuit 320 may include an electrical signal from Foot presence information includes qualitative information about the position of the foot relative to one or more sensors in the footwear. include.

[0095] At operation 1020, this example includes determining whether the foot is fully inserted within the footwear. If the sensor signal indicates that the foot is fully seated, this example continues to operation 1030. In operation 1020, the drive mechanism 340 may be actuated. When the foot is determined to be fully seated based on information from the foot presence sensor 310, for example, 3, the shoe lace can be tightened via the spool 131 by engaging the drive mechanism 340 as previously described. If the sensor signal indicates that the foot is not fully retracted, this example continues with action 1. In step 022, a delay or wait is performed for a predetermined interval (e.g., 1 to 2 seconds or more). After the predetermined delay has elapsed, this example continues with operation 101. 0 and the processor circuitry resamples the information from the foot presence sensor 310. The foot can be scanned again to determine whether the foot is fully accommodated.

[0096] After the drive mechanism 340 is actuated in operation 1030, the processor circuit 320 0. For example, the processor circuit may be configured to monitor foot position information. Periodically, information from the foot presence sensor 310 regarding the absolute or relative position of the foot within the footwear is In one example, operation 10 can be configured to monitor continuously or intermittently. Monitoring foot position information at 40 and receiving foot presence information at operation 1010 includes: This may include receiving information from the same or different foot presence sensors 310. For example, in operations 1010 and 1040, different sensors may be used to monitor foot presence or position information. Electrodes having the above structure can be used.

[0097] At operation 1040, this example includes deactivating one or more buttons associated with the footwear, e.g., buttons This includes monitoring information from the button 121. The mechanism 340 may include a mechanism for undoing or loosening the laces, for example, when the user wishes to take off the footwear. Can give instructions.

[0098] In some instances, in addition to or instead of the above, to operate the drive mechanism 340 or the string tension information can be monitored or used as feedback information for pulling the string. For example, string tension information is obtained by measuring the drive current supplied to the motor 341. Tension can be characterized at the time of manufacture or can be pre-set or adjusted by the user. The drive current level can be adjusted and correlated to a monitored or measured drive current level.

[0099] At act 1050, this example includes determining whether a foot position has changed within the footwear. If no change in foot position is detected by the foot presence sensor 310 and the processor circuit 320, This example may continue with a delay at operation 1052. A predetermined delay interval at operation 1052. The example can then return to operation 1040 and again sample the information from the foot presence sensor 310. The delay in operation 1052 is then sampled and again determined to have changed foot position. It can range from milliseconds to seconds, and is optionally user-specified.

[0100] In some instances, the delay at operation 1052 may be based on, for example, determining the characteristics of the use of the footwear. In response, the processor circuit 320 can automatically determine The sensor circuit 320 detects whether the wearer is engaged in strenuous activity (e.g., running, jumping, etc.). If so, the processor circuit 320 determines that the delay duration provided in operation 1052 is The processor circuitry reduces the time required for the wearer to perform non-vigorous activities (e.g., walking). If the processor circuit determines that the user is engaged in motion (eg, moving or sitting), the processor circuitry performs operation 1052. You can extend the duration of the delay provided by the A sampling event and at least one of the processor circuit 320 and the foot presence sensor 310 and preserving battery life by slowing down corresponding power consumption by either In one example, if a position change is detected in act 1050, this example can be 30, for example, to actuate the drive mechanism 340 to tighten the footwear around the foot. In one example, the processor circuit 320 may be A hysteresis controller may be included or built-in for mechanism 340, e.g., to accommodate slight foot positioning. This helps to avoid unnecessary string winding when a position change is detected.

[0101] FIG. 11 is a flow chart illustrating an example method 1100 of using foot presence information from footwear sensors. The example of FIG. 11 illustrates, in one example, a processor circuit 320 and a foot presence sensor. This may refer to the operation of a state machine, such as may be implemented using the can.

[0102] State 1110 represents the default or baseline state for the active footwear product. The product may include an “out of stock” state, which may be affected by information from the foot presence sensor 310. In the shipping state 1110, the footwear includes one or more mechanisms that can receive various accessories. Active components can be switched off or deactivated to preserve the footwear's battery life. This can be done.

[0103] In response to a "power up" event 1115, this example "disables" The drive mechanism 340 or other mechanism of the active footwear may transition to the active state 1120. The can remain in standby in the disabled state 1120. , can be used as a trigger event to exit the disabled state 1120. For example, a user input from one of the buttons 121 can be used to switch the device to the disabled state 1120. In one example, information from the motion sensor 324 can indicate a transition from The information from the motion sensor 324 can be used as a wake-up signal. The information may include, for example, that the user has placed the shoe in a ready position or that the user has placed the foot in the footwear. This will allow us to respond to the changes that have begun to be made.

[0104] The state machine starts after the power-on event 1115 and the auto-lacing enable event 1. Remain in disabled state 1120 until 123 is encountered or received. The auto lacing enable event 1123 can be triggered by a user manually (e.g., by a driver (using a user input or interface device to mechanism 340), or For example, the motion sensor 324 may automatically trigger the gesture information received. The auto lacing enable event 1123 is followed by a calibration event 1124. 5. Calibration event 1125 takes into account, for example, environmental effects on the sensor. This includes establishing a reference or baseline value for the capacitance of the foot presence sensor 310 to Calibration can be performed based on information sensed from the foot presence sensor 310 itself. The threshold may be based on predefined or programmed or specified criteria information.

[0105] After the Auto Lace Enable event 1123, the state machine enters the Hold state 1130. In state 1130, the state machine waits for a foot presence signal. 0 and / or the motion sensor 324. For example, an interrupt indicating the presence of a foot or the likelihood that a foot is present. When a signal is received, the event register can indicate "foot detected" with event 1135. do.

[0106] The state machine transitions to various functions when a foot detected event 1135 occurs, and For example, the footwear may initiate a drive mechanism 3 in response to a foot detection event 1135. 40 can be used to tighten or adjust the tension characteristics. The processor circuit 320 activates the drive mechanism 340 in response to the detection event 1135 to initially The tension in the string is adjusted by the amount of the delay, and the processor circuit 320 detects a further control gesture. Unless or until a user input is issued or user input is received, the footwear is prevented from being tightened any further. That is, the state machine can transition to the “waiting for action” state 1140. In one example, the processor circuit 320 may be configured to activate the drive mechanism 34 after the foot detection event 1135. 0 but does not activate the drive. Hold the state until additional footwear movement information is received, or pause and then perform the initial adjustment or Further tension adjustments can begin. After the movement waiting state 1140, stomp / walk A standing up event 1145 can be detected, and in response, the processor circuit 320 adjusts the tension of the footwear. The force characteristics can be further adjusted.

[0107] The stomp / walk / stand event 1145 may be, for example, one or more of the following: The inputs may include various individual sensed inputs from a number of sensors. For example, a stomp event is defined as a combination of positive acceleration (e.g., in a specified or general direction) and an "up" or "upright" orientation. This may include information from a motion sensor 324 indicating the direction of the strike. The pumping event is a "thigh lift" or "pumping" event in which the user lifts one knee substantially vertically and forward. The acceleration characteristic from the motion sensor 324 includes a kick type event. It can be analyzed to determine whether it meets or exceeds a predefined threshold. A knee-lift event that is too slow may not trigger a stomp event response, A sudden or quick knee lift event may trigger a stomp event response.

[0108] A walking event is a motion that indicates an active walking step pattern and an "up" or "standing" direction. In one example, the information may be from a motion sensor 324. 24 and / or the processor circuit 320 to identify a walking step event. and the walking event is determined when a walking step event is identified, and For example, an accelerometer (included with or separate from the motion sensor 324). However, this may be permitted when it is demonstrated that the footwear is in an upright position.

[0109] The standing event may be further monitored, for example, by a motion sensor, for acceleration or footwear directional change. Include information from a motion sensor indicating an "up" or "upright" orientation, without any information indicating In some examples, the stand-up event can be, for example, a capacitive event as described further below. Information regarding the change in the capacitance signal from the foot presence sensor 310 can be used to identify: The capacitive signal from the foot presence sensor 310 indicates, for example, when the user's foot is exerting downward pressure on the footwear. The signal may include a change in signal that may indicate whether the user is standing, such as when the user is standing.

[0110] The specific examples of Stomp / Walk / Stand Up Event 1145 are not considered limiting. , and various other gesture, time-based, or user-input controls. to further control the behavior of the footwear after a foot is detected, for example, in foot detection event 1135. It is possible to control or influence the

[0111] Following stomp / walk / stand event 1145, the state machine is in the "waiting to unwind" state 1150. The wait to unlace state 1150 relaxes the footwear and releases tension. or at least one of user input and gesture information for a shoelace untie command. This may include monitoring the direction (eg, using a motion sensor 324). In the Wait to Unbind state 1150, a state manager such as the processor circuit 320 The tightening engine or drive mechanism 340 is untied and should return to the Wait for Foot Present Signal state 1130. That is, in the first example, the unraveling event 1155 (e.g. In response to a user input, for example, a state machine transitions to the Unlacing Footwear state. The state machine may then return to the wait for foot present signal state 1130. In the example, the autolace disable event 1153 occurs, disabling the footwear. The state can be transitioned to state 1120.

[0112] FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram of a graph 1200 of a first time-varying information from a capacitive foot presence sensor. The example of FIG. 12 includes a graph of capacitance versus time, showing a first time-varying capacitance signal 1201 is plotted on the graph. In one example, the first time-varying capacitance signal 120 The first time-varying capacitance can be obtained using the foot presence sensor 310 described herein. The quantity signal 1201 may be a measured capacitance or a number of capacitances within the foot presence sensor 310 as previously described. In one example, the first time-varying The capacitance signal 1201 may represent an absolute or relative capacitance value, or in other examples, the signal may represent a number of different capacitances. It represents the difference between the signals.

[0113] In one example, the first capacitance signal 1201 is compared to a predetermined first threshold capacitance value 1211. The foot presence sensor 310 may be configured to perform such a comparison, or a processor circuit may be configured to perform such a comparison. The circuit 320 is configured to receive capacitance information from the foot presence sensor 310 and perform a comparison. In the example of FIG. 12, the first threshold capacitance value 1211 is shown to be a constant non-zero value. When the first capacitance signal 1201 coincides with the first threshold capacitance value 1211, for example at time T1, When the foot presence sensor 310 and / or the processor circuit 320 reach or exceed the threshold, One of the first interrupt signals INT1 can be supplied. The capacitance value indicated by the presence sensor 310 matches or exceeds the first threshold capacitance value 1211. can remain as high as possible.

[0114] In one example, the first interrupt signal INT1 is generated in response to, for example, operation 101 in the example of FIG. 0 or 1020. In operation 1010, foot presence information is received from foot presence sensor 310. Receiving the first interrupt signal INT1 in the processor circuit 320, for example, In one example, operation 1020 may include using the interrupt signal information to determining whether the foot is fully contained within the footwear or is likely to be fully contained within the footwear. For example, the processor circuit 320 may be configured to detect the duration of the first interrupt signal INT1. The foot presence sensor 310 is monitored for how long to determine whether the foot presence sensor 310 is at or above the first threshold capacitance value 121. It can be determined whether a capacitance value exceeding 1 is supplied. If the duration exceeds a predetermined reference duration, If so, the processor circuit 320 can determine that the foot is fully enclosed or that there is a high possibility that the foot is fully enclosed. do.

[0115] In one example, the first interrupt signal INT1 is generated when, for example, state 1130 or is available at event 1135. In state 1130, the state machine 3. Wait for an interrupt signal, such as INT1, from the foot presence sensor 310 or from the foot presence circuit 320. At event 1135, the state machine may be configured to A signal INT1 can be received and in response thereto initiate one or more of the following states: can.

[0116] In one example, the first threshold capacity value 1211 is adjustable. The threshold can be adjusted based on, for example, environmental changes. The volume baseline or criteria may be modified based on measured or detected changes due to the addition of In this example, the first threshold capacity value 1211 is user-specifiable. The setting can affect the sensitivity of the footwear. In one example, the first threshold capacitance value 12 11 responds to sensed environmental or material changes in or around the foot presence sensor 310. The system can automatically adjust to the desired setting.

[0117] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of a graph 1300 of a second time-varying information from a capacitive foot presence sensor. The example of FIG. 13 shows the variation of the second capacitance signal 1202 close to the first threshold capacitance value 1211. How to handle or use the footwear to obtain more information about the presence or orientation of the foot in the footwear This indicates whether the information can be determined.

[0118] In one example, the second capacitive signal 1202 is received from the foot presence sensor 310 and The capacitance signal 1202 is compared to a first threshold capacitance value 1211. Other thresholds may be used as well, depending on user preferences, footwear type, or environment or environmental characteristics. In the example of FIG. 13, the second capacitive signal 1202 is a first capacitive signal at times T2, T3, and T4. In some instances, multiple threshold crossings may occur. is detected by the foot presence sensor 310, for example by indicating the path of travel of the foot as it enters the footwear. For example, the first threshold crossing at time T2 and the first threshold crossing at time T3 can be used to clearly identify the presence of a foot. The time interval bounded by the second threshold crossing at 3 is the time when the toe or phalanges are in contact with the foot presence sensor 31 The duration when the second capacitance is at or near the zero electrode can be shown. The interval between T3 and T4 that is less than the threshold capacitance value 1211 indicates that the metatarsal joint or metatarsal bones of the foot It can correspond to time when moving over or near the electrodes of the presence sensor 310. The metatarsal joint, or metatarsus, is the joint that connects the phalanges to the foot as they move into the footwear. The distance from the foot presence sensor 310 can be longer than the distance to the foot presence sensor 310. Therefore, the resulting measured capacitance between T1 and T4 may be smaller. At T4, the heel or talus of the foot can slide into place and the arch can contact the electrodes of the foot presence sensor 310. The sensed capacitance then returns to a high value, exceeding the first threshold. The capacitance value 1211 is exceeded. Therefore, the foot presence sensor 310 or the processor circuit 320 provides a second interrupt signal INT2 between times T2 and T3, and a third interrupt signal INT3 after time T4. It can be configured to provide an interrupt signal INT3.

[0119] In one example, the processor circuit 320 determines the presence or absence of a foot based on a sequence of interrupt signals. For example, the processor circuit 320 may be configured to clearly identify the presence of a received interrupt. regarding the interrupt signal and regarding one or more intervals or durations between received interrupt signals For example, a processor circuit can generate a set of allocations separated by a specified duration. It can be configured to look for pairs of incoming signals to provide a clear indication of the presence of a foot. For example, the duration between T3 and T4 may be, for example, adjustable or subject to a specified tolerance. In one example, the processor circuitry can be used to provide an indication of foot presence with a tolerance to error. 320 receives the interrupt signal as data and uses the data, for example, by gestures. It can be processed along with other user input signals as part of the user input. Information regarding the presence or absence of a signal may be used to enable or reject one or more other signals. For example, an accelerometer signal can be used to indicate whether an interrupt signal is currently being received or has recently been received. When received, it can be validated and processed by the processor circuit 320. Alternatively, the accelerometer signal may be It is possible that the processor circuit 320 may overrule the request.

[0120] The examples of Figures 12 and 13 show that the measured capacitance value from the foot presence sensor 310 varies with the environmental conditions. A practice that is reliably constant or reproducible over time, including in the presence of changes However, in many cases where footwear is used, the embedded electrodes Ambient capacitance changes occur constantly or due to, for example, changes in temperature, humidity, or other environmental factors. This can happen unexpectedly. Large changes in the ambient capacitance can cause the sensor baseline to fluctuate, for example. Or by changing the baseline capacitance characteristics, the operation of the foot presence sensor 310 may be adversely affected. There is a possibility that this may occur.

[0121] FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram of a third time-varying information graph 1400 from a capacitive foot presence sensor. The example of FIG. 14 illustrates the effect of, for example, various changes in ambient conditions, changes in usage scenarios, or changes in footwear. Demonstrate how to account for changes in baseline capacity due to component wear or degradation This example is shown in Graph 1 together with a second threshold capacitance 1212 and a time-varying reference capacitance 1213. 14 includes a third capacitance signal 1203 plotted on 400. The reference capacitance 1213 increases over time. In another example, the reference capacitance decreases over time. or over the course of a footwear usage event (e.g., a day played The game time may vary across a single game, across a single user's settings or preferences, etc. The reference volume is determined by the various components of the footwear itself, such as the insole, outsole, sock, etc. Changes in the life cycle of the liner, orthotic insert, or other components of the footwear It can become.

[0122] In one example, a third capacitive signal 1203 is received from the foot presence sensor 310. The capacitive signal 1203 can be processed, for example, using a processing circuit on the foot presence sensor 310 or a processor. The time-varying reference capacitance is compared to a second threshold capacitance 1212 using a time-varying reference capacitance 320. In an example where 1213 is not considered or used, the crossing of the third capacitive signal 1203 with the threshold is determined by the time However, the second threshold capacitance 1212 can be seen at T5, T6, and T8. It can be adjusted in real time based on the sensed information from the foot presence sensor 310. The adjustment to the capacitance 1212 shall be based on a time-varying reference capacitance 1213. can be done.

[0123] In one example, the second threshold capacitance 1212 is a continuous, time-varying reference capacitance 1213 In an alternative example, the second threshold capacitance 1212 is adjusted in a stepwise manner. in increments of 0.1 μs, e.g., in response to a predetermined threshold change in the time-varying reference capacitance 1213. The stepwise adjustment method is shown in FIG. For example, the second threshold capacitance 1212 is a time-varying Increases at times T7 and T10 in response to a predetermined capacitance threshold increase ΔC in the reference capacitance 1213 In the example of FIG. 14, the third capacitance signal 1203 is the reference compensated second threshold capacitance 121. 2 at times T5, T6, and T9. Therefore, whether the threshold is reference compensated or not Depending on time T5, different interrupt signals or interrupt signal timings can be provided. Between T1 and T6, a fourth interrupt signal INT4 can be generated and supplied. If 12 is used without reference compensation, it will generate a fifth interrupt signal INT5 at time T8. However, when a reference compensated second threshold capacitance 1212 is used, The fifth interrupt signal INT5 is generated when the third capacitance signal 1203 is equal to the compensated second threshold capacitance 121 When it crosses 2, it is generated and delivered at time T9 as shown.

[0124] A logic circuit can be used to monitor and update the threshold capacitance value. Such a logic circuit may include: It may be incorporated into the foot presence sensor 310 or into the processor circuit 320. The threshold levels can be automatically provided and stored in on-chip RAM. , no input or confirmation is required from the user to perform the threshold update.

[0125] FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram of a fourth time-varying information graph 1500 from a capacitive foot presence sensor. The example of FIG. 15 illustrates the effect of, for example, various changes in ambient conditions, changes in usage scenarios, or changes in footwear. Demonstrate how to account for changes in baseline capacity due to component wear or degradation This example shows the fourth capacity plotted on the graph 1500 along with the adaptive threshold capacity 1214. The fourth capacitance signal 1204 may be provided by a foot presence sensor 310. The adaptive threshold capacitance 1214 is adapted to adapt to the environmental or usage conditions of the capacitance measured by the foot presence sensor 310. This can be used to help compensate for case related variations.

[0126] In one example, the foot presence sensor 310 or the processor circuit 320 may detect a change in the magnitude of the signal. monitoring the fourth capacitance signal 1204 for changes greater than a threshold amount of a particular magnitude, for example; That is, the fourth capacitance signal 1204 is configured to monitor a capacitance of a predetermined threshold capacitance. If the change in magnitude corresponds to or exceeds the magnitude ΔC, the foot presence sensor 310 The processor circuit 320 can also provide an interrupt signal.

[0127] In one example, the sensed or measured capacitance value of the fourth capacitance signal 1204 may be a reference capacitance or is compared to a baseline, and this reference or baseline may be determined over a given or time-varying period. In the example of FIG. 15, the reference updates are performed at times T11, T12, and T13 as shown. etc. Additionally or instead, other intervals or other trigger events may be used. Updates in response to events can also be used.

[0128] In the example of FIG. 15, the initial baseline capacity can be 0 or represented by the x-axis. The sixth interrupt signal INT6 is generated when the fourth capacitance signal 1204 reaches a previously specified criterion. In contrast, the capacitance can be supplied at time T11 after the capacitance has increased by an amount greater than a predetermined threshold capacitance magnitude ΔC. In the example of FIG. 15, the interrupt signal can be provided periodically, but in other examples, the interrupt signal can be provided upon detection of a threshold change in capacitance. It can provide an interrupt signal at the same time as distinguishing between the

[0129] After an identified threshold change, such as at time T11, a baseline or The capacitance can be updated to the first capacitance reference C1. Following time T11, the foot presence sensor 310 or The processor circuit 320 determines a subsequent change in the signal of at least ΔC, i.e., C1+ΔC or configured to monitor the fourth capacitance signal 1204 to find the capacitance value of C1-ΔC It is possible.

[0130] In an example involving first identifying an increase in capacitance, the state of the interrupt signal may be changed to reflect a subsequent decrease in capacitance. However, there may be further capacity increases over time. If identified, the reference volume can be updated and subsequent comparisons will be based on the updated reference volume. This scenario is illustrated in Figure 15. For example, at time T12, An increase in the capacitance of the capacitance signal 1204 is detected and the reference can be updated to a second capacitance reference C2. Since the capacitance change of the first capacitance and the second capacitance change thereafter indicate an increase, the sixth interrupt signal INT6 The state may not change. At time T13, a capacitance drop is detected in the fourth capacitance signal 1204. The capacitance change at time T13 is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold capacitance. Since the amount of the interrupt is greater than ΔC, the state of the sixth interrupt signal INT6 is (for example, The signal can change from asserted to de-asserted.

[0131] In one example, a first change detected at time T11 and a corresponding interrupt signal IN T6 indicates that the foot has been sensed by the foot presence sensor 310 and determined to be within the footwear. A subsequent increase in the baseline capacitance may be due to, for example, changes in the environment of or around the sensor. represents the change in baseline capacitance measured by the presence sensor 310. The change observed is that the foot is removed from the footwear and is no longer sensed in the vicinity of the foot presence sensor 310. Subsequent capacitance changes (e.g., at time T16) can be expressed as the foot reentering the footwear. It can be used to express that

[0132] FIG. 16 illustrates time-varying information from a capacitive foot presence sensor in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. A schematic diagram of a signal morphology limit graph 1600 is shown. This example shows The fifth capacitive signal 1205 and the sixth capacitive signal 1206 plotted on the graph 1600 The graph 1600 further includes a configuration limit 1601. The configuration limit 1601 is The capacitance signal from the presence sensor 310 can be compared to a sampled segment of the capacitance signal. is performed and sampled using the foot presence sensor 310 or the processor circuit 320. It can be determined whether the particular segment fits the shape limit 1601. In the example of FIG. , the morphological limit, when exceeded, indicates that the capacitive signal segment is A lower limit is established that indicates that the presence of feet is not, or is unlikely to be, represented.

[0133] The illustrated sampled portion of the fifth capacitance signal 1205 meets the geometry limit 1601. In the example of FIG. 16, the shape limit 1601 is the change in the magnitude of the capacitance signal, i.e., the dip. The fifth capacitance signal 1205 defines the shape including the time, dwell, and recovery. After it has been identified as conforming to all or part of boundary 1601, a percentage indicating the presence or successful detection of a foot is The NI 8116 can provide an input signal.

[0134] The illustrated sampled portion of the sixth capacitance signal 1206 meets the geometric limit 1601. For example, the steep decline and long dwell time of the sixth capacitance signal 1206 may indicate that the morphology limit 1 601 and thus, for example, the foot is not detected by the foot presence sensor 310. To indicate further undetection, the interrupt signal is withheld.

[0135] The geometric limits 1601 can be fixed or variable. For example, the geometric limits can be Based on information regarding quantity, environment, use case of the footwear, user, sensitivity preferences, or other information. For example, the shape limit 1601 may vary depending on the type of footwear used. That is, basketball shoes can be made to look like running shoes. may have different shape limits 1601 than the shoe. differences in the shape or material of the footwear, or the time it may take a user to put on or take off a particular footwear article. In one example, the configuration limit 1601 is based on the usage, e.g., on putting on and taking off footwear. It can be user programmed to accommodate a user's specific preferences or procedures.

[0136] As previously mentioned, the foot presence sensor 310 may have an associated fixed or variable baseline or reference. The reference capacitance may be a capacitance value related to the electrode surface area or other footwear component. The placement of the electrodes on the footwear, or the orientation of the footwear, or the environment in which the sensor or the footwear itself is used, may be a function of this. That is, the sensor can measure some relevant information when the foot is not in the footwear. The capacitance may be determined by the dielectric effect of one or more materials or the sensor. Or it can be a function of nearby environmental factors. The insert (e.g., insole) is designed to detect the dielectric properties of the capacitive sensor or the nearby footwear. The processor circuitry 320 may optionally change the baseline or The foot presence sensor 310 is activated when the baseline characteristic changes, e.g., when the insole is replaced. In one example, the processor circuit 320 can also be configured to calibrate the baseline. It can be configured to automatically detect changes in the reference volume or upon user input or command. The system can be configured to update the baseline or reference volume in response to the change in the baseline or reference volume.

[0137] FIG. 17 illustrates a capacitive footrest placed beneath a dielectric stack in the midsole of a footwear article. A schematic diagram of an example presence sensor 1700 is shown. The example 1700 may be, for example, a capacitive foot presence sensor. A lace-fastening engine or drive mechanism that operates at least in part based on information from 1701. 340. The presence sensor 1701 generates a capacitance or capacitance-indicating signal based on the presence or absence of a body 550 in the vicinity of the sensor. The system can be configured to provide:

[0138] One or more materials can be provided between the body 550 and the capacitive foot presence sensor 1701, The material or materials can affect the sensitivity of the sensor or can reduce the signal from the sensor. In some instances, one or more of the materials may be The materials form a dielectric stack. The one or more materials may be, among others, SOX 1751 , an air gap due to the height of the arch of the body 550 at or near the sensor, an insole 1750, fasteners 1730 such as Velcro®, or dielectric filler 1720. In one example, a capacitive foot presence sensor 1701 may be included in the housing structure 150. Where provided, the top wall of the housing structure 150 itself is part of the dielectric stack. In the present invention, the orthodontic insert may be part of the dielectric stack.

[0139] The inventors have discovered that by providing a dielectric stack with a high dielectric constant, or high k value, We realized that the input sensitivity of the capacitive foot presence sensor 1701 can be improved by using a high k value. Various materials were tested to evaluate their effectiveness and suitability in footwear. In one example, dielectric filler The material 1720 may include a neoprene material. The neoprene material may be used to support the foot in the footwear. It is comfortable to use underneath and, for example, instead of an air gap or other low This is sufficient to increase the sensitivity of the capacitive foot presence sensor 1701 compared to having a material with a k value of It has a hardness or durometer characteristic that provides a sufficient dielectric effect. In one example, the neoprene member has a hardness of about 30 Shore A. The material includes closed-cell foam having a desired hardness.

[0140] FIG. 18 illustrates the effect of dielectric filler 1701 on the capacitive indication signal from capacitive foot presence sensor 1701. 18 shows an example of a graph 1800 showing the effect of 20. In the graph 1800, the x-axis indicates the number of digital samples and corresponds to the elapsed time, and the y-axis is the capacitance of the capacitive foot presence sensor 17 Graph 1800 shows the relative capacitance values ​​detected by the first dielectric filler 1720. A first capacitance indication signal 1801 corresponding to one type of material, and a second capacitance indication signal 1802 corresponding to one type of material, and a second capacitance indication signal 1803 corresponding to one type of material, A time-aligned second capacitance-indicating signal 1802 corresponding to a second different type of material. Includes superposition.

[0141] In this example, the first signal 1801 is provided by a first dielectric member as the dielectric filler 1720. The first dielectric member corresponds to the provided footwear. The graph 1800 shows a first dielectric material having a polyurethane foam having a thickness of 100 μm. A body 550 is inserted into and then removed from an article of footwear that includes a foot presence sensor 1701. For example, the first signal 1801 is Portion 1820 of FIG. 18 shows the reference or baseline measured by the capacitive foot presence sensor 1701. In the example of FIG. 18, the reference or baseline is normalized to a value of 0. The baseline condition may correspond to the foot not being in the footwear, i.e., the first signal 18 A first portion 1820 of sample 600 shows that the foot is not in footwear. At a corresponding time, the body 550 may be inserted into the footwear and the capacitive foot presence sensor 17 After insertion, the first signal may be located at or near the first dielectric member. The size of the number 1801 may vary, for example, by a first amount 1811, so that the foot (or other body part) In the example of FIG. 18, the body 550 is, for example, 1400 , which corresponds to a second portion 1821 of the first signal 1801 . It remains in the footwear for a period of time. At a time corresponding to around sample 1400, body 5 When the body 550 is removed, the first signal 1801 is A return to that reference or baseline value may be achieved.

[0142] In the example of FIG. 18, the second signal 1802 is generated when the second dielectric member is a dielectric filler 1720. The second dielectric member corresponds to the footwear provided by the above-mentioned first dielectric member. The neoprene foam may include a second dielectric k value greater than the dielectric k value of the first dielectric k value. The footwear 1800 includes a footwear article in which the body 550 includes a second dielectric member and a foot presence sensor 1701. 18 shows multiple instances of a second signal 1802 being inserted into a second signal 1803 and then removed. The first portion 1820 is a reference or baseline measured by the capacitive foot presence sensor 1701. In the example of FIG. 18, a first portion 1820 of the second signal 1802 is shown as a foot-in capacitance. At the time corresponding to sample 600, body 550 was in the footwear. A capacitive foot presence sensor 1701 and a second dielectric member or its attachment may be inserted. After insertion, the magnitude of the second signal 1802 may be, for example, The amount 1812 changes to indicate that the foot (or other body part) is inside the footwear. In the example, the second amount 1812 exceeds the first amount 1811. The difference in magnitude change is a function of the dielectric filling. This is due to the type of material used in the material 1720. That is, the first capacitance indication signal 180 The magnitude of the first and second capacitance indicating signals 1802 may vary depending on whether different dielectric stacks are used. If the dielectric stack includes a high k dielectric filler 1720, The difference in magnitude, i.e., the difference from the baseline, is due to the dielectric stack being filled with low-k dielectrics. 17 is larger than that having material 1720.

[0143] In one example, the orthotic insert comprises a portion of a dielectric stack within the footwear. The authors conducted various tests to determine the effect that various orthotic inserts have on the capacitive foot sensing method. The effects of full-length and partial-length orthotic insoles were tested. Adding a partial-length orthotic to the footwear increases the overall dielectric effect of the stack, The electric field sensitivity to the presence of the foot is reduced. The sensed signal amplitude (e.g., the sensed capacitance change) The noise floor RM (corresponding to the noise floor) also decreased with the orthotics. The S amplitudes were similar with and without the orthotic. The responses under loaded and unloaded conditions were also It was the same.

[0144] Based on the results of the orthotic test, the foot is present with a regular or full-length orthotic. Using capacitive sensing to detect this is feasible in terms of signal-to-noise resolution. With partial-length or full-length orthodontic appliances, the desired minimum is approximately 6 dB. A SNR of over 1000 can be used to analyze foot presence, and both low and high loads can be used. In one example, the foot presence sensor 310 is added by an orthotic. A capacitive offset range may be included or used to compensate for inductive effects. .

[0145] The change in the air gap between the full length orthotic and the electrodes of the foot presence sensor 310 This can correspond to a measurable change in SNR depending on the load. For example, Thus, when a high k dielectric material is provided at or near the capacitive foot presence sensor, a low This can improve the SNR over alternatives that include or use dielectric materials with lower k values.

[0146] It turns out that different zones of the foot behave similarly under low load conditions, e.g. under an orthotic. However, no significant change in the gap distance was observed when the user was standing. Under high load conditions, such as when wearing a brace, the arch area of ​​the brace may become compressed, causing the air gap to become The gap is substantially reduced or eliminated. Therefore, under the detection conditions, if an orthodontic appliance is present, The electric field measured in is comparable in magnitude to the electric field measured using mass-produced or OEM insoles. The air gap between the foot presence sensor 310 and the body to be detected may be similar to that shown in FIG. In the case of orthotics or OEM-produced insoles, the air gap is compensated for by Or various materials can be provided or added to fill it. For example, neoprene, etc. A foam top filler can be provided behind the full length orthotic.

[0147] In one example, the inclusion of an orthotic in the insole reduces the overall dielectric strength of the dielectric stack. The thickness of the orthotic increases, decreasing the field sensitivity to the presence of the foot. The signal amplitude is reduced by the orthotic. The RMS amplitude of the noise characteristics was similar with and without the brace. The dielectric member occupies a space between the sensing electrode of the capacitive sensor and the underside of the orthodontic appliance. It was also found that this can have a significant effect on the sensitivity of the sensor. For example, a k value of 1.28 The polyurethane foam used is made of neoprene foam, which has a dielectric constant, or k value, of about 5.6. If the noise amplitude is equal, the signal amplitude may be approximately 70% smaller than if it were measured with a Assuming that the SNR is correct, this corresponds to an SNR difference of about 4.6 dB.

[0148] Therefore, capacitive sensing was used to detect the presence of a foot with a carbon fiber orthotic. The use of a 6d sensor is feasible in terms of signal to noise. An SNR exceeding the lowest value of B was measured.

[0149] FIG. 19 illustrates a portion of a third capacitive indicative signal 1803 from a capacitive foot presence sensor in footwear. 19 shows an example of a graph 1900. In the graph 1900, the x-axis is the digital sample rate. and corresponds to elapsed time, and the y-axis is the number of The information from the third signal 1803 may, among other things, indicate whether the user It is possible to distinguish whether the user is applying downward force to the footwear, such as whether they are sitting or standing. To determine whether a user is walking or not, to determine the number of steps, or to determine the characteristics of the user's gait. It can be used to

[0150] For example, at an initial time corresponding to sample "0" on the x-axis, the third signal 1803 has a relative capacitance It is possible that the patient has a standard or baseline value of about 0 on the dose scale. That is, around sample 175 on the x-axis, a third signal 1803 indicates that the body 550 is, for example, in footwear. The third signal 1803 includes a footwear putting on event corresponding to the footwear being inserted into the first At 910 or around sample 10000, a shoe removal event is included, followed by a third The signal 1803 returns to the baseline value.

[0151] The example of FIG. 19 further includes a threshold 1920. The threshold 1920 determines whether the body 550 is in footwear. For example, the foot or body 550 may correspond to a relative capacitance value that indicates that the foot or body 550 is in the footwear. , the relative capacitance indicated by the third signal 1803 exceeds a threshold 1920 and If 550 is not in the footwear, the relative capacity may be lower than the threshold 1920. As will be described further below, the threshold 1920 can be dynamically adjusted using various methods or techniques, such as For example, environmental changes or changes in footwear materials are taken into account.

[0152] For example, 1901 and 191 correspond to the interval between samples 175 and 1000, respectively. Between the events of putting on and taking off the footwear at 0, the wearer of the footwear product alternates between sitting and standing positions. The transition between sitting and standing can be initiated, for example, by a third signal 180. 3. By compression and relaxation of the footwear material forming a dielectric stack on top of the capacitive sensor It may correspond to a variation in the third signal 1803, i.e., when a user stands up and steps down on the dielectric stack. When a force is applied, one or more materials in the dielectric stack may be compressed, The user's foot may approach the capacitive sensor, thereby causing the When the user sits down, the downward force on the dielectric stack is reduced. , the dielectric stack material may relax or stretch, causing the user's foot to move away from the capacitive sensor. be.

[0153] The slip event 1901 includes the perturbation portion of the third signal 1803. Alternatively, instead of indicating a silent transition, the third signal 1803 may indicate that the user has placed their foot in a certain position within the footwear. In one example, the event 1901 The method includes lacing, e.g., automatic or manual lacing, which allows a user to attach the dielectric stack to the Various forces are applied to the footwear material, including against the footwear itself, and the user is subjecting the This may correspond to adjusting the tension of the footwear. In the example of Figure 19, After the event, the user may enter a first duration 1, which corresponds to samples 200 to 275, for example. 931. For the first duration 1931, the third signal 180 3 may have an average value of about 220 relative volume units.

[0154] After the first duration 1931, the user may stand, thereby releasing the dielectric stack. The material of the stack can become compressed, causing the user's feet to approach the capacitive sensors underneath the stack. When the user stands up completely, compressing the dielectric stack, the third signal 1803 becomes Over the duration 1932, it may have an average value of about 120 relative capacity units. That is, the magnitude of the third signal 1803 changes when the user transitions from a sitting position to a standing position or when the user The state in which the user applies minimum force to the dielectric stack to the state in which the user applies maximum force to the dielectric stack When the dielectric properties of the dielectric stack itself change, a first magnitude change 1 In one example, the first magnitude change 1951 can be a change in the dielectric stack. That is, the first magnitude change amount 1951 can correspond to the magnitude of the force applied to the The weight of the user, or for example, the weight of the user is greater when running compared to when walking. It is expected that the user will experience a large force on the dielectric stack while running or walking. This can be used to determine whether

[0155] In the example of FIG. 19, near sample 375, a third signal 1803 indicates that the user is in a seated position. When it returns to full swing, it returns to a value of approximately 220 relative capacity units. The user must wait for the third duration of 1933 After this, the following relative volume change occurs:

[0156] The dashed portion of the third signal 1803 (after about sample 500 in the example of FIG. 19) represents The time course and the change in the x-axis scale are shown. In one example, samples 0 to 500 are When the footwear incorporating the sensor is new or when a new dielectric stack is used in the footwear, The samples from around sample 9,800 onwards correspond to when the footwear was worn out or damaged. When the dielectric stack is crushed, loosened, or worn out over time This applies when the device does not restore or expand even when the device is not present.

[0157] In the example of FIG. 19, the third signal 1803 indicates the transition between the user's sitting and standing positions. Several transitions are shown. In this example, the fourth duration 1934 and the sixth duration 1936 are This corresponds to a sitting position that exerts minimal force or pressure on the dielectric stack inside the object. Time 1935 corresponds to a standing position where the force on the dielectric stack increases. Now, the fourth duration 1934 and the sixth duration 1936 have a relative capacity of about 240 units. That is, the fourth duration 1934 and the sixth duration 1935 may correspond to the average value of the first and second intervals. The average of the 36 was about 220 units, the first duration 1931 and the third duration 1 933. In some instances, the difference between the averages is or other footwear materials that change over time with use of the footwear. This may be due to wear and tear. In this example, the fifth duration 1935 is approximately 150 It may correspond to the average value of the relative capacity units, which is approximately 1933 for the third duration. The average value of the pelvic floor is 120 units. The difference between when the stack is loaded and when it is not loaded is The first size change 1951 may be different for new and used footwear. The results show a change of about 200 units in relative capacitance between the standing and sitting positions in relation to footwear. The second magnitude change 1952 is the standing posture for older or used footwear. This shows a change of about 150 units in relative capacitance between sitting and sitting. The duration 1934 to the sixth duration 1936 are further divided into the first duration 1931 to Compared to the third duration 1933, it shows a relatively noisy signal, which is further Or it may be due to wear of the sensor components.

[0158] FIG. 19 therefore uses information from the third signal 1803, among other things, to determine the life cycle of the footwear. It indicates that the information can be used to indicate the condition of the footwear or the use characteristics of the footwear. One or more footwear components are worn or depleted and do not provide optimal or sufficient cushioning or Inform users that foot support may be unavailable to provide support; and can be used to help prevent injury to the user by providing a warning.

[0159] In one example, information from a capacitive foot sensor provides step frequency information; or This can be used to determine, for example, whether the user's stride length is known. In some cases, it can be used as a step counter or pedometer. Then, the fluctuations in the third signal 1803 may correspond to different walking step events. For example, the second duration 1932 may be, for example, when the first foot of the user is on the ground and A first part of a walking step of a user when the user's weight is exerting a force on the user's footwear. The footwear may include a capacitive footwear that provides a third signal 1803. After a second duration 1932, the user places their weight on the first leg of the user. This can result in the pressure or strain that the wearer exerts on the footwear being transferred from the foot to the second foot. The force may be reduced and a corresponding change in the third signal 1803 may be observed. For example, the magnitude of the third signal 1803 increases by, for example, the first magnitude change amount 1951. If the user takes another step and returns to the first foot, the magnitude of the third signal 1803 may be reduced by, for example, the same or a similar first magnitude change amount 1951. In certain instances, the size change may be dependent on the force that the user exerts on the footwear, or This in turn can be related to how fast the user is walking or running. For example, larger magnitude changes may correspond to different running paces. A smaller amount of change may correspond to walking pace.

[0160] In one example, the duration, interval, or number of samples of the predetermined portion of the third signal 1803 can be used to determine the walking step interval or number of steps. For example, the first duration 1 931 may have a sample count of about 75 samples, and the second duration 1932 may have a sample count of about 50 samples. For a first portion of a walking or walking step cycle in which the first foot is off the ground, In response, a second duration 1932 is set to correspond to a first period of the user's walking or walking step cycle. When the user's walking step interval corresponds to the second part of the latter half of the foot on the ground, the user's walking step interval is approximately Depending on the sample rate, the walking step interval can be, for example, The processor circuit 320 is used to process the sample number information, etc., to correlate with the walking or running pace. It is possible.

[0161] In one example, the duration, interval, or sample between signal magnitude changes of the third signal 1803 may be The number of pulls can be used to determine the walking step interval or number of steps. Changes in magnitude greater than the magnitude of the change in size can be identified by the processor circuit 320, The processor circuit 320 can then calculate or identify the length of the interval between the specified magnitude changes. For example, the start of the second duration 1932 is determined by the processor circuit 320 at sample 325, which is observed, for example, in the third signal 1803. The end of the second duration 1932 corresponds to a magnitude change greater than the threshold change in the process. The signal processor 320 identifies the sample 375 as being near the third signal 1803 corresponds to a magnitude change greater than a predetermined threshold change. The processor circuit 320 calculates the difference between the sample numbers to determine if the second duration 1932 is a The processor circuit 320 can also determine that the third signal 1 The duration or sample length of any one or more segments of 803 may be determined. The processor circuit 320 can then determine the walking step interval, which is the walking step interval. It can be used to determine the distance traveled or the speed at which the user is moving. Information about the user's stride length, along with walking step interval information, is used to determine distance traveled. can be used.

[0162] In some instances, the length of the user's stride is not specified or is unknown. The length is optionally measured using one or more sensors, such as an accelerometer or a position sensor (e.g. For example, information from a GPS sensor can be used in conjunction with foot sensor information to determine the location of the Information from the sensor can indicate the total distance traveled by a user over a given duration. The processor circuit 320, or other processor associated with the footwear, may receive the third signal 18. 03 and correlate the number of signal magnitude change events with walking steps and distance traveled. The user's average walking step or stride length can then be determined. For example, if the user walks 100 meters The foot presence sensor was moved 100 times in 30 seconds, and the capacitance indication signal from the foot presence sensor was 100 times within the same 30 second interval. When the signal magnitude change event is detected, the processor circuit 320 or other sensor The user's stride is about 100 meters / 100 size change events = size change events It can be determined that each time is 1 meter.

[0163] In some examples, the information from the third signal 1803 may include information about the user's gait characteristics or the user's The processor circuit 320 can be used to determine changes in the gait of the The capacitance-indicating signal can then be configured to be monitored, e.g., to identify changes in the signal. For example, the processor circuit 320 may be configured to The duration or first step event of the walking can be monitored. Each time a person puts on footwear, it is expected that they will begin walking or running in a similar manner, with a similar gait, etc. It is conceivable that the processor circuit 320 may measure the established baseline or average If a deviation from the intended signal characteristics is detected, the user can be alerted. The processor circuit 320 may be configured to correlate user fatigue with possible injury. For example, the system may be configured to detect deviations or characteristics of use that could be exploited. Deviations from the baseline signal characteristics may indicate that the foot or ankle has rolled or slipped within the footwear. For example, a change in foot position may result in a corresponding increase in the capacitance of a foot presence sensor. This is because it may change the dielectric properties of the material or its vicinity. In some embodiments, information about foot position changes may be used to automatically tighten the footwear around the user's foot. and can be used to help prevent injury to the user.

[0164] The following aspects provide a non-limiting overview of the footwear and sensors discussed herein. . Aspect 1 is a method for performing an operation on an object (e.g., an apparatus, a system, a device, a method, a means for performing an operation, or a device). A device that contains instructions that, when executed by a device, can cause the device to perform an operation. The footwear may include or use a device-readable medium, for example a time-varying sensor signal coupled to the footwear. The method may include or may be used to receive from a sensor that has been The method is configured to sense information regarding the proximity of the foot. The method includes using a processor circuit to identify characteristics of a time-varying sensor signal and to Footwear-related or foot-related data collection based on gender, using the same or similar technologies linked to footwear The method may include at least one of starting with a different sensor and updating the automatic functions of the footwear. The method may include performing at least one of the following:

[0165] Aspect 2 includes or uses, or optionally combines, the subject of aspect 1, and is time-varying. Identifying the characteristics of a sensor signal is a process for identifying a series of signal change events in a time-varying sensor signal. a signal change event is a signal change event that occurs when the signal magnitude or frequency exceeds a predetermined threshold Optionally, the change amount may correspond to a change of more than the change amount. .

[0166] Aspect 3 includes or uses the subject matter of aspect 2, or optionally in combination with the subject matter of aspect 3, to provide a processor circuit Optionally, the method includes determining the number of steps using a series of signal change events using a path. can be included in the selection.

[0167] Aspect 4 may include or use the subject matter of one or any combination of aspects 2 or 3, or any In combination with any of the signal change events, a processor circuit is used to generate a signal. Optionally including determining foot strike force characteristics. can be done.

[0168] Aspect 5 includes or uses the subject matter of one or any combination of aspects 2 to 4, or Varying the predetermined threshold change amount in response to changes in environmental characteristics in any combination. wherein the environmental characteristic corresponds to the environment in which the footwear is to be used.

[0169] Aspect 6 includes or uses the subject matter of one or any combination of aspects 1 to 5, or The processor circuitry is operable to arbitrarily combine the signals to identify characteristics of the time-varying sensor signals. The path is used to extract the first part of the time-varying sensor signal, which corresponds to a foot strike. and other parts of the time-varying sensor signal that correspond to foot lift. identifying the second portion; determining a time-varying sensor signal including a first portion and a second portion; Using information about the user's movements to determine the number of steps, speed of movement, or distance traveled. may optionally be included.

[0170] Aspect 7 includes or uses the subject matter of one or any combination of aspects 1 to 6, or The processor circuitry is operable to arbitrarily combine the signals to identify characteristics of the time-varying sensor signals. using the path to identify a first portion of the time-varying sensor signal corresponding to foot strike; identifying another second portion of the time-varying sensor signal corresponding to foot-off; Optionally, determining foot strike force characteristics using a first portion of the varying sensor signal. Can be included or used selectively.

[0171] Aspect 8 includes or uses the subject matter of one or any combination of aspects 1 to 7, or any The processor circuitry is operable to arbitrarily combine the signals to identify characteristics of the time-varying sensor signals. using the path to identify a first portion of the time-varying sensor signal corresponding to foot strike; identifying another second portion of the time-varying sensor signal corresponding to foot-off; A first portion of the changing sensor signal is used to determine a life cycle state of the insole component of the footwear. The method may optionally include determining.

[0172] Aspect 9 includes or utilizes the subject matter of aspect 8, or optionally in combination, an insole comprising: If the determined life cycle state indicates that the equipment does not provide sufficient cushioning to the occupant, If the footwear is in a worn position, it may optionally include reporting footwear condition indications to the user. Cut.

[0173] Aspect 10 includes or uses the subject matter of one or any combination of aspects 1 to 9; or Optionally, data collection can be initiated using the same or different sensors in combination. and optionally including receiving footwear activity information from an accelerometer coupled to the footwear. Can be used.

[0174] An eleventh aspect of the present invention includes or uses the subject matter of one or any combination of the first to tenth aspects; Optionally, the automatic functions of the footwear can be updated by combining the automatic lacing engine. The lacing engine tightens the footwear around the foot, or Optionally, the device may include or use a device configured to loosen the tension member.

[0175] Aspect 12 includes or uses the subject matter of one or any combination of aspects 1 to 11; receiving a time-varying sensor signal from the sensor, optionally in combination with a capacitance Optionally including receiving a time-varying capacitance-indicative signal from the capacitance sensor. can be done.

[0176] Aspect 13 includes or uses the subject matter of one or any combination of aspects 1 to 12; receiving a time-varying sensor signal from the sensor, optionally in combination with The method may optionally include receiving a time-varying magnetic field indicative signal from the sensor. do.

[0177] Aspect 14 includes or uses the subject matter of one or any combination of aspects 1 to 13; and optionally combining the sensor signal with a time-varying sensor signal when the foot is inserted into the footwear. and identifying characteristics of the time-varying sensor signal, including while the footwear is being inserted or removed from the footwear. The changing proximity of the foot as the toe, arch, and heel approach the sensor in the footwear. Optionally including identifying a proximity characteristic. can be done.

[0178] Aspect 15 relates to an object (e.g., an apparatus, a system, a device, a method, a means for performing an operation, or A device that contains instructions that, when executed by a device, can cause the device to perform an operation. The present invention can include or utilize a device-readable medium, such as a foot proximity sensor system for footwear. Aspect 15 includes, among other components, a footwear that is coupled to the footwear and that provides a foot sensor for detecting the foot's position relative to the sensor. a proximity sensor configured to provide a time-varying sensor signal indicative of the proximity of a and a processor circuit coupled to the sensor, the processor circuit detecting a time-varying and based on the identified characteristics, determining whether or not the same proximity sensor is being used. The present invention relates to a method for collecting data about a footwear or about a foot using different sensors coupled to the footwear. and updating an automatic function of the footwear. It is composed.

[0179] Aspect 16 includes or uses the subject matter of aspect 15, or optionally combines it to provide an item of footwear. As a capacitive sensor including a plurality of electrodes provided on or near the insole. A proximity sensor may optionally be included.

[0180] Aspect 17 includes or uses the subject matter of aspect 16, or optionally in combination, to provide an item of footwear. One or more magnetic fields are provided on or near the insole and positioned within the footwear. Proximity sensor as a magnetometer configured to detect magnetic field changes based on changes in position of the human body may optionally be included or used.

[0181] Aspect 18 includes or uses the subject matter of one or any combination of aspects 15 to 17; or optionally in combination to identify multiple characteristics of the sensor signal that vary over time. Each of the characteristics may optionally include or utilize a processor circuit configured to corresponds to a signal magnitude change greater than a predetermined threshold change amount, and the processor circuit uses the characteristic to The device is configured to determine the number of steps, foot landing force, or moving speed.

[0182] Aspect 19 includes or uses the subject matter of one or any combination of aspects 15 to 18; or optionally in combination, a first time-varying sensor signal corresponding to foot strike. and identifying a second portion of the time-varying sensor signal corresponding to a foot-off. The method may optionally include or use a processor circuit configured to The sensor circuitry receives information regarding the timing of the first and second portions of the time-varying sensor signal. The information is configured to determine the number of steps, the moving speed, or the moving distance.

[0183] Aspect 20 relates to an object (e.g., an apparatus, a system, a device, a method, a means for performing an action, or A device that contains instructions that, when executed by a device, can cause the device to perform an operation. and a device-readable medium, for example, an automated footwear system for use in a footwear product. The system may include or utilize a lacing engine configured to be disposed within the product. a lacing engine housing; a processor circuit provided within the housing; and an electrical interconnect coupled at least in part to one or more ports in the housing. A plurality of electrodes provided on the exterior of the housing and coupled to the processor circuit using electrical interconnects. and a capacitive sensor including: and configured to provide a time-varying sensor signal indicative of a changing proximity of the body to the pole. In embodiment 20, the processor circuit identifies a characteristic of the time-varying sensor signal. Based on the identified characteristics, the same capacitive sensor or a different sensor coupled to the footwear may be used. Initiating data collection regarding the footwear or regarding the foot using sensors and lacing and updating an automatic function of the engine. .

[0184] Each of these non-limiting aspects can stand alone or in combination with other aspects or those described herein. The examples may be combined with one or more of the examples given in various permutations or combinations. Various precautions The above description includes references to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the detailed description. By way of illustration, specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced are shown. These embodiments are also , referred to herein as "examples." Such examples may be any other than those shown or described. However, the inventors also contemplate that the present invention may include any of the elements shown or described. Further, the inventors also contemplate that the specific examples (or any of the examples) may be used in combination with other examples. With respect to one or more embodiments, other examples (or equivalents) shown or described herein may also be used. With respect to one or more aspects of the present invention, the elements (or any one or more of them) shown or described may be used interchangeably. Examples using any combination or permutation of the above aspects (or aspects in multiple aspects) are also contemplated.

[0185] In this document, the term "a" means "at least one," as is common in patent documents. Apart from other instances or uses of "one" or "one or more," In this document, the term "or" is used to include the Unless otherwise specified, "A or B" is used to refer to a non-exclusive or. For example, "A or B" means "A but not B." ", "A but B", and "A and B". The terms "including" and "comprising" are open-ended, i.e., A system, device, or method including any element other than those recited following that term in any claim. Any product, composition, formulation, or process is still considered to be within the scope of the claim. Furthermore, the following patents may be used in the claims as "first," "second," and "third": Terms such as "of" are used merely as descriptive names and do not set numerical requirements for that purpose. It is not something to do.

[0186] Geometric terms such as "parallel," "perpendicular," "circular," or "square" require other interpretations depending on the context. Absolute mathematical precision is not required unless Scientific terms also allow for variations due to manufacturing or equivalent features. For example, an example might be " When a part is described as "round" or "generally round," it refers to components that are not exactly circular (e.g., Round, elongated, round, or polygonal with multiple sides are still included in this description.

[0187] The method examples described herein may be implemented, at least in part, by machine or computer-implemented processes. Some examples may be implemented in a manner that performs the methods described in the above description. A computer-readable medium or device encoded with instructions operable to configure an electronic device. The implementation of such a method may include microcode, assembly, and machine readable media. This may include a language code, a higher level language code, or other code. Such code may include computer readable instructions for performing various methods. The code may form part of a computer program product. Further, in some examples In this case, the code may, for example, be modified at run-time or at other times in one or more volatile, non-transient, or The information may be stored in a tangible form on non-volatile computer readable media. Examples of data-readable media include hard disks, removable magnetic disks, removable optical Disks (e.g., compact disks and digital video disks), magnetic cassettes, Memory card or stick, Random Access Memory (RAM), Read Only Memory (ROM), and others.

[0188] The above description is intended to be illustrative rather than limiting. For example, the above example (or any other One or more of these aspects may be used in combination with each other. For example, this Summary is intended to enable the reader to easily understand the technical disclosure. This is provided to allow a quick identification of the nature of the invention as it relates to the scope of the patent claims. are provided with the understanding that they will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the In the above Detailed Description, various features have been grouped together for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. This is because features that are disclosed but not claimed may be They should not be construed as intended to be essential to the claims. The subject of clarity may lie in some of the features of a particular embodiment disclosed. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated by reference in the Detailed Description as examples or embodiments. Each claim stands as a separate embodiment, and such embodiments may be combined in various It is contemplated that the above-mentioned embodiments may be combined with each other in any combination or permutation. The scope of any claimed invention should be determined in accordance with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. be.

Claims

1. Receiving a sensor signal from a sensor coupled to footwear, the sensor configured to sense information relating to a proximity of a foot to the sensor; Using the processor circuit, identifying a first portion of the sensor signal corresponding to a foot-on event, and identifying another second portion of the sensor signal corresponding to a foot-off event; determining a life cycle state of an insole member of the footwear using the first portion of the sensor signal; A method comprising:

2. The method of claim 1, further comprising reporting a footwear condition indication to the user by providing at least one of tactile feedback using an actuator or visual feedback using light if the determined life cycle state indicates that the insole does not provide sufficient cushioning to the user.

3. The method of claim 1, comprising detecting a trend in sensor signal values ​​corresponding to each foot landing event, and determining the lifecycle state comprises using information regarding the detected trend in the sensor signal values.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein receiving the sensor signal from the sensor includes receiving a capacitive indication signal from a capacitive foot presence sensor.

5. The method of claim 4, comprising measuring a change in a baseline capacitance of the capacitive foot presence sensor, and determining the life cycle state of the insole member of the footwear comprises using information regarding the change in the baseline capacitance.

6. The method of claim 4, comprising identifying a variation in a baseline capacitance of the capacitive foot presence sensor, and determining the life cycle state of the insole member of the footwear comprises using information related to the identified variation in the baseline capacitance.

7. Receiving a sensor signal from a sensor coupled to footwear, the sensor configured to sense information regarding a proximity of a foot to the sensor; and Using the processor circuit, identifying a portion of the sensor signal at a first time that corresponds to a first step event; identifying a portion of the sensor signal at a later second time that corresponds to a second step event; and detecting drift in the portions of the sensor signal corresponding to the first step event and the second step event; determining a life cycle state of the footwear component using the detected drift; and A method comprising:

8. The method of claim 7, wherein receiving the sensor signal from the sensor includes receiving a capacitive indication signal from a capacitive foot presence sensor; The method of claim 7 , wherein detecting the drift comprises measuring a change in a baseline capacitance of the capacitive foot presence sensor.

9. The method of claim 7, wherein determining the life cycle state includes providing degradation information regarding changes to an insole, outsole, sock liner, or orthotic insert of the footwear.

10. The method of claim 7, wherein identifying the portions of the sensor signal corresponding to the first step event and the second step event includes identifying respective sensor signal portions that correspond to a foot strike event.

11. The method of claim 7, wherein identifying the portion of the sensor signal that corresponds to the first step event includes identifying a foot-on and a foot-off, and detecting the drift includes using information in the sensor signal that corresponds to the foot-on.

12. The method of claim 7, comprising reporting a footwear condition indication to the user if the determined life cycle state indicates that the footwear does not provide sufficient cushioning to the user.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein reporting the footwear condition indication to the user includes providing at least one of tactile feedback using an actuator or visual feedback using light.

14. A system for use in footwear, comprising: a first sensor coupled to the footwear and configured to provide a capacitive indicative signal, a change in the capacitive indicative signal corresponding to a change in proximity of the foot to the first sensor; a processor circuit coupled to the first sensor, detecting a variation in the capacitance indicative signal; determining a life cycle state of the footwear component based on the detected variations; and the processor circuitry configured to execute A system comprising:

15. The system of claim 14, wherein the processor circuit is configured to detect the variation in the capacitance indication signal by comparing the value of the capacitance indication signal with a specific threshold, the values ​​of the capacitance indication signal corresponding to different times.

16. The system of claim 14, wherein the processor circuit is configured to use information about the variations to identify portions of the sensor signal corresponding to each foot strike event, and the processor circuit is configured to determine the life cycle state based on the portions of the sensor signal corresponding to the respective foot strike events.

17. The system of claim 14, wherein the processor circuitry is further configured to use the detected variation to determine foot strike force.

18. The system described in claim 14, wherein the processor circuit is configured to use the determined life cycle state to provide information regarding deterioration of an insole member of the footwear.

19. The system of claim 14, wherein the change in the capacitance indication signal corresponds to a change in proximity of the foot to the first sensor when the foot is away from the first sensor.

20. The system described in claim 19, further comprising a dielectric filler inserted between an upper surface of the first sensor and the foot, the dielectric constant of the dielectric filler being greater than the dielectric constant of the surrounding air.

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