Foot presence signal processing using velocity

Abstract

To provide a foot presence sensor system which is capable of determining the number of steps, foot impact force, travel speed or other information about the foot, an activity amount or footwear.SOLUTION: A foot presence sensor system for an active article of footwear includes a sensor housing configured to be disposed at or in an insole of the footwear article, and a controller circuit disposed within the sensor housing and configured to trigger one or more automated functions of the footwear based on a foot presence indication. In an embodiment, the sensor system has a capacitive sensor, and the sensor is configured to sense changes in a foot proximity to the sensor in footwear. Information about the sensed proximity can be used to determine a foot velocity characteristic, which in turn can be used to update the automated footwear function such as an automatic lacing function.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 27

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] Priority claim This application is a continuation of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 556,103, filed September 8, 2017. claiming the benefits of the right, and This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15 / 458,625, filed March 14, 2017. Continuation of U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 610,179, filed March 31, 2017 It is a continuation-in-part application, and This application is a joint application of International Patent Application No. PCT / US2017 / 01004 filed on March 14, 2017. 22342, and This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15 / 460,060, filed March 15, 2017. It is a continuation-in-part application, and This application is a joint application of International Patent Application No. PCT / US2017 / 01004 filed on March 15, 2017. 22576, and This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15 / 459,889, filed March 15, 2017. It is a continuation-in-part application, and This application is a joint application of International Patent Application No. PCT / US2017 / 01004 filed on March 15, 2017. 22533, and This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15 / 459,897, filed March 15, 2017. It is a continuation-in-part application, and This application is a joint application of International Patent Application No. PCT / US2017 / 01004 filed on March 15, 2017. 22548, and This application is a part of Taiwan Patent Application No. 106108511 filed on March 15, 2017. It is a partial continuation application, and This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15 / 459,402, filed March 15, 2017. It is a continuation-in-part application, and This application is a joint application of International Patent Application No. PCT / US2017 / 01004 filed on March 15, 2017. This is a continuation-in-part of application No. 22489. No. 6,299,133, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0002] The present invention relates to foot presence signal processing using velocity. [Background technology]

[0003] A variety of shoe-mounted sensors have been proposed to monitor various conditions, such as: "Sensor shoe for monitoring foot conditions," Brown said. Patent document 1 (U.S. Patent No. 5,929,332) entitled "Suitable for preventing the condition of a foot" ) presents several examples of shoe-mounted sensors. The insole is made of a flat, planar, flexible, elastic, and dielectric layer of material. This article describes a foot force sensor that can: The conductive interconnect means may have an electrical resistance that varies based on the applied compressive force. This can be done.

[0004] Mr. Brown also suffers from various types of foot disorders, including excessive strain on parts of the foot. The book details the shoes that diabetics should wear, as excessive pressure can make them more susceptible to ulcers. , a force sensing resistor (FSR) and connected to this resistor, An alarm unit that alerts the wearer that a threshold level has been reached or exceeded. and a switching circuit capable of activating the switch.

[0005] Devices that automatically tighten footwear have been proposed in the past. Patent document 2 (U.S. Patent No. 6,691,433) entitled "Automatic Tightening Shoe" In the shoe, a first fastener attached to the upper part of the shoe is connected to a fastening member, and fastened to the fastening member. a second fastener releasably engageable with the first fastener to hold the member in a fastened state; Liu teaches a drive unit mounted on the heel of the sole. The drive unit comprises a housing, a spring mounted rotatably within the housing, and a spring. Each string is connected to a spool, a pair of tension strings, and a motor unit. The fastener has a first end connected to the first fastener and a second end corresponding to a string hole in the second fastener. The motor unit is connected to the spool. Mr. Liu said the motor unit is connected to the spool inside the housing. the second fastener is operable to drive rotation of the fastener, pulling the second fastener in a direction toward the first fastener. Furthermore, Liu teaches winding up the tension string on a spool. He also teaches a guide tube unit through which the tension string passes. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Patent No. 5,929,332 [Patent Document 2] U.S. Patent No. 6,691,433 [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] In the drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, like reference symbols in different figures Similar components can be described. Similar reference numbers with different subscripts refer to similar components. The drawings may show different examples of components. The embodiments are presented broadly by way of example and not by way of limitation. [Figure 1] 1 illustrates a general exploded perspective view of components of an article of athletic footwear, according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 2A] 1 illustrates a schematic representation of a sensor system and an electric lacing power source (engine), according to some exemplary embodiments. [Figure 2B] 1 illustrates a general view of a sensor system and a powered lacing power source, according to some exemplary embodiments. [Figure 2C] 1 illustrates a general view of a sensor system and a powered lacing power source, according to some exemplary embodiments. [Figure 3] 1 illustrates generally a block diagram of components of a powered lacing system, according to an exemplary embodiment; [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing pressure distribution data for a nominal or average foot (left side) and a foot with a high arch (right side) within a footwear item when the wearer of the footwear item is standing. [Figure 5A] FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of a capacitance-based foot presence sensor in an insole of an article of footwear, according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 5B] FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of a capacitance-based foot presence sensor in an insole of an article of footwear, according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 6] 1 illustrates generally a capacitive sensor system for foot presence detection, according to an exemplary embodiment; [Figure 7] 1 illustrates generally a schematic diagram of a first capacitance-based foot presence sensor, according to an exemplary embodiment; [Figure 8] 10 illustrates generally a schematic diagram of a second capacitance-based foot presence sensor, according to an exemplary embodiment; [Figure 9A]1 shows a general illustration of a capacitance-based foot presence sensor electrode, according to an example of some exemplary embodiments. [Figure 9B] 1 shows a general illustration of a capacitance-based foot presence sensor electrode, according to an example of some exemplary embodiments. [Figure 9C] 1 shows a schematic diagram of a capacitance-based foot presence sensor according to one example embodiment; [Figure 10] 1 illustrates a flow chart showing an embodiment using foot presence information from footwear sensors. [Figure 11] 10 illustrates a flow chart showing a second embodiment using foot presence information from footwear sensors. [Figure 12] 10A generally illustrates a graph of first time-varying information from a capacitive foot presence sensor. [Figure 13] 10 illustrates a graph of second time-varying information from a capacitive foot presence sensor. [Figure 14] 10 illustrates a graph of third time-varying information from a capacitive foot presence sensor. [Figure 15] 10A illustrates a graph of fourth time-varying information from a capacitive foot presence sensor. [Figure 16] 10A-10C illustrate graphs of time-varying information and signal shape limits from a capacitive foot presence sensor, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment; [Figure 17] 1 generally illustrates an embodiment of a capacitance-based foot presence sensor below a dielectric stack in the midsole of an article of footwear. [Figure 18] 10 generally illustrates example graphs showing the effect of a dielectric filler on a capacitance-indicative signal from a capacitive foot presence sensor. [Figure 19] 10 generally illustrates an example graph showing a portion of a capacitance-indicative third signal from a capacitance-based foot presence sensor of a footwear item. [Figure 20] 10 illustrates generally an example of foot presence signal information over multiple sit-to-stand cycles. [Figure 21]Figures 21A-D generally illustrate one example of different planar electrode configurations. [Figure 22] 10 illustrates an example graph showing the relationship between sensor sensitivity and sensor geometry. [Figure 23] 10 generally illustrates an example graph showing the relationship between sensor sensitivity and orthotic insert. [Figure 24] 10 illustrates an example graph showing the relationship between sensor response and simulated sweating. [Figure 25] 10 illustrates an example graph showing the relationship between sensor response and simulated sweating along with an averaged signal. [Figure 26] 1 illustrates an example of a state diagram for a sweat compensation method. [Figure 27] 10A-10C generally illustrate example graphs showing foot presence sensor data. [Figure 28A] 1 generally illustrates an embodiment of a shoe insole assembly with a tonneau cover. [Figure 28B] 1 generally illustrates an embodiment of a shoe insole assembly with a tonneau cover. [Figure 29A] 1 generally illustrates an embodiment of a shoe insole assembly having a first hook and loop cover for a lacing power source. [Figure 29B] 1 generally illustrates an embodiment of a shoe insole assembly having a first hook and loop cover for a lacing power source. [Figure 29C] 1 generally illustrates an embodiment of a shoe insole assembly having a first hook and loop cover for a lacing power source. [Figure 29D] 1 generally illustrates an embodiment of a shoe insole assembly having a first hook and loop cover for a lacing power source. [Figure 30A] 1 generally illustrates an embodiment of a shoe insole assembly having a second hook and loop cover for a lacing power source. [Figure 30B] 1 generally illustrates an embodiment of a shoe insole assembly having a second hook and loop cover for a lacing power source. [Figure 30C]1 generally illustrates an embodiment of a shoe insole assembly having a second hook and loop cover for a lacing power source. [Figure 30D] 1 generally illustrates an embodiment of a shoe insole assembly having a second hook and loop cover for a lacing power source. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The concept of self-tightening shoelaces was first introduced in the 1989 film "Back to the Future." The fictional powered lace-up Nike (registered trademark) shoes worn by Marty McFly in "Future II" ) sneakers became popular. Nike has since released the movie prop version. At least one version of the power-lacing sneaker is similar in appearance to the The mechanical internal system and surrounding footwear platform (base) used The motorized lacing system was not necessarily conducive to mass production or everyday use. Conventional stem designs have many problems, including high manufacturing costs and complexity, to highlight just a few. such as structure, difficulty in assembly, lack of maintainability, and weak or fragile mechanical mechanisms. The inventors of the present invention have found that, among other things, some of the problems mentioned above have been relatively difficult to solve. A model that accommodates electric and non-electric strapping power sources (engines) that solve all or nothing. We have developed a modular footwear platform. The components detailed below provide various benefits. These benefits include, but are not limited to, maintainable components, interoperability, Interchangeable automatic lace-up power source, robust mechanical design, robust control algorithm, reliable operation , state-of-the-art assembly processes, and customization at the retail level. Various other benefits of the component will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0009] In some embodiments, the modular automatic lacing footwear platform includes a lacing power source. The midsole plate is secured to the midsole of the footwear to accommodate the The design of the sole plate allows the lacing power source to be transferred to the footwear platform at a later stage, such as at the time of purchase. Modular automatic footwear platform midsole The tool plate and other aspects can be used interchangeably with different types of lacing power sources. For example, the electric lace-up power source detailed below can be modified for a human-electric lace-up power source. Alternatively, a fully automatic motorized lacing system with foot presence sensing or other features may be used. The power source can be housed within a standard midsole plate.

[0010] The automated footwear platforms described herein may be configured, for example, with a transparent protective outsole material. Provides end users with visual feedback using illuminated LED lighting The outsole may include an actuator interface that provides control for This actuator indicates the state of the lacing power source or other automated footwear platform. It can provide tactile and visual feedback to the user.

[0011] In some embodiments, the footwear platform detects when the foot is in the shoe. When a foot is detected, the foot presence sensor is configured to detect one or more footwear To initiate a function or process, e.g., automatically and without further user input or command. For example, it can detect whether the foot is properly seated on the insole in the footwear. Upon receiving the shoelace, the control circuitry may automatically initiate lacing, data collection, footwear diagnostics, or other processes. Move.

[0012] Premature activation or triggering of an automatic lacing or footwear tightening mechanism may result in serious injury to the footwear. This can lead to a poor user experience, for example, if the foot is not fully seated in the insole. When the lacing power source is activated, the user (male or female) must tighten the remaining The parts take different amounts of time to get into the footwear, or the user can manually adjust the lacing tension. The inventors of the present invention therefore have a problem to solve. As an example, a foot restraint system may be used to determine whether the foot is properly or completely seated within the footwear, e.g., toe restraint system. The toe, midsole and heel sections are properly aligned with the corresponding sections of the insole. The inventors of the present invention further recognized that the problem involves determining whether to reduce sensor and assembly costs and reduce device complexity. Therefore, it is possible to accurately determine foot placement or orientation using as few sensors as possible. I realized it was included.

[0013] Solutions to these problems include reducing the arch area and / or heel of the footwear. In some embodiments, the sensor measures the electrical field near the electrode. A capacitive sensor is configured to sense changes in an electric field or capacitance. When putting the foot in or taking it out of the footwear, some parts of the foot are closer to the sensor than other parts of the foot. In some embodiments, the capacitance sensor is connected to the lacing power source. In some embodiments, the capacitance cell is integrated into or contained within an enclosure. At least a portion of the sensor is located outside the strap-on power source enclosure, and the enclosure One or more conductive interconnects are provided to power or processing circuitry within the cell.

[0014] Capacitive sensors suitable for use in foot presence detection can have a variety of forms. The sensor may be a plate capacitor, in which case one or more plates The plate moves relative to the other plate in response to pressure or pressure changes on the plate. In some embodiments, the capacitive sensor has multiple wires, The wiring is generally arranged in a plane parallel to or coincident with the upper surface of the insole. They can be separated by an air gap (or other material such as styrofoam) and The inverter may be selectively or periodically driven by an AC drive signal generated by a starting circuit. In this embodiment, the electrodes may have an interdigitated configuration. The sensor is based on the electrodes themselves moving relative to each other and on the presence or absence of a foot or other object. Movement can result in a varying capacitance signal due to interference of the electric field near the electrode.

[0015] In some embodiments, a capacitance-based sensor can be more reliable than mechanical sensors, for example, capacitance based This is because capacitance-based sensors do not require any moving parts. The poles may be coated or covered with a durable, electric field transparent material, but Therefore, the electrodes are not susceptible to environmental changes, moisture, spillage, dirt, or contaminated media. It can be protected from direct exposure and humans or other materials can be prevented from coming into direct contact with the sensor electrodes. Do not come into contact.

[0016] In some embodiments, the capacitive sensor provides an analog output signal, which is a capacitance It represents the magnitude of the capacitance detected by the sensor, or the change in capacitance. The force signal has a first value (e.g., corresponding to a low capacitance) when the foot is near the sensor. ) and when the leg is not present it can have a different second value (e.g., a high capacitance (corresponding to the service).

[0017] In some embodiments, the foot-present output signal can provide other information. For example, there may be detectable fluctuations in the capacitance signal that correlate with walking events. Additionally, wear on shoe components such as insoles, orthotics, or other components may be reduced. Long-term detectability of capacitance signals that can indicate damage and / or remaining life There can be drift.

[0018] In some embodiments, the capacitance sensor measures the capacitance sensed by the capacitance sensor. Capacitance-to-digital converter configured to provide a digital signal representing In some embodiments, the capacitive sensor includes or is connected to a conversion circuit of the type , an interrupt indicating whether the sensed capacitance value meets a particular threshold capacitance condition; In some embodiments, the processor circuitry is configured to provide a signal or logic signal. Thus, the capacitive sensor measures the capacitance characteristic relative to a baseline or reference capacitance value. This baseline or reference may affect the sensed capacitance value. The system can be updated or adjusted to address environmental or other changes that occur.

[0019] In some embodiments, the capacitive sensor is located near the arch or heel area of ​​the shoe. The capacitance sensor can be planar or flat. The mass sensor can be rigid or flexible and adapted to conform to the contours of the foot. In some cases, when wearing shoes, a relatively low dielectric constant or low An air gap may exist between a portion of the capacitive sensor and the legs, such that the sensor may have a low dielectric constant. A relatively high inductive capacitance is used to bridge any gap between the capacitive sensor and the foot surface. The gap filler may have a dielectric constant or a larger dielectric constant. This gap filler may be compressible or incompressible. In some embodiments, the gap filler can be used to provide a sensor with suitable sensitivity. and to provide a comfortable feeling underfoot to the user, the relationship between the dielectric value and the suitability for use of the footwear. Choose the one that offers the right compromise.

[0020] The following is an example of an automated footwear platform that includes an electric lacing power source, a foot presence sensor, and a midsole plate. Various components of the platform and various other components of the platform Much of this disclosure focuses on the use of foot presence sensing as a trigger for the electric lacing power source. focus on footwear, but automate other footwear functions such as data collection or physiological monitoring. Many aspects of the detailed design, such as interfacing with a human-operated lacing power source or foot presence sensor, are possible. The present invention is applicable to other circuits or features that can be used for "Automated Footwear Platform" The term "automated" as used in "automated footwear platform" It is not intended to cover only systems that operate without specific user input. The term "automatic footwear platform" refers to a platform that tightens various lacing or retention systems of footwear. Electric and human-powered, automatically operated, for controlling footwear or other aspects of athletic footwear This may include a human-operated mechanism for

[0021] FIG. 1 generally illustrates an exploded view of components in an article of athletic footwear according to an exemplary embodiment. The embodiment of FIG. 1 includes an automatic lacing system 100, which includes a lacing power source. 110, lid 120, actuator 130, midsole plate 140, midsole 155, and an outsole 165. The lacing power source 110 is It may have user-replaceable components and may have one or more A foot presence sensor may be included or connected. In some embodiments, the lacing power source 11 0 includes or connects to a capacitive foot presence sensor. The sensor has a plurality of electrodes arranged on the side of the lacing power source 110 facing the foot. In some embodiments, the electrodes of the capacitive foot presence sensor are located within the lacing power source 110. It can be housed in, integrated into the housing of the lacing power source 110, or is located somewhere near the lacing power source 110 and is connected to the lacing power source 110 using one or more conductors. The lacing power source 110 may be connected to an internal power source or processing circuitry.

[0022] Assembly of the powered lacing system 100 in the embodiment of FIG. 1 begins with the midsole plate 140 into the midsole 155. Next, the actuator 13 0 to the midsole opposite the interface button, which may be embedded in the outsole 165. The lacing power source 11 can then be inserted into the opening in the side of the plate 140. 0 can be inserted into the midsole plate 140. In some embodiments, the lacing Therefore, the power source 110 may be connected to one or more sensors located anywhere within the footwear. Other assembly methods may be implemented to form the powered lacing system 100 as well. It is possible.

[0023] In some embodiments, the lacing system 100 may include a lacing cable under a continuous loop. Once inserted, the lacing cable aligns with the spool inside the lacing power source 110. To complete the assembly, To complete the assembly, the lid 120 is inserted into the fastening means in the midsole plate 140 and closed. The tethers can be fixed in place and locked into recesses in the midsole plate 140 . The lid 120 can capture the lacing power source 110 and connect with the lacing cable during operation. It can assist with alignment.

[0024] The midsole plate 140 includes a lacing power source cavity 141, medial and lateral lacing guides. 142, a forward flange 143, an aft flange 144, an upper (top) surface and a lower (bottom) surface. The lacing power source cavity 14 has a surface, as well as an actuator cutout 145. 1 is configured to house a lacing power source 110. In this embodiment, the lacing power source The cavity 141 holds the lacing power source 110 in the lateral and front / rear directions, but the lacing There is no feature to lock the tightening power source 110 within the cavity 141. The power source cavity 141 is configured to accommodate the lacing power source 110 within the lacing power source cavity 141. Detents, tabs, or other features along one or more side walls to ensure secure retention. It has a mechanical form.

[0025] Lacing guide 142 guides the lacing cable to a desired position relative to lacing power source 110. It can have a chamfered edge and a slated slope below to provide support. In this embodiment, the lace guide 142 is formed through a side opening in the midsole plate 140. This opening may be many times wider than the diameter of a typical lacing cable. However, other dimensions may be used.

[0026] In the embodiment of FIG. 1, the midsole plate 140 The center side of the front flange 143 is carved or contoured to protrude further. The exemplary forward flange 143 is positioned below the arch of the footwear platform. However, in other embodiments, the forward flange 143 In this embodiment, the rear The side flange 144 has a contour with protruding portions at the center and lateral sides. The side flanges 144 may provide increased lateral stability to the lacing power source 110 .

[0027] In some embodiments, one or more electrodes are embedded within the midsole plate 140. or on the midsole plate 140, and may also be part of the foot presence sensor. For example, the sensor may form part of a capacitive foot presence sensor. The lacing power source 110 applies electricity to one or more electrodes on the midsole plate 140. The sensor circuit has a sensor circuit electrically connected to the electrode. The sensor circuit detects the electric field or capacitance sensed from the electrode. The capacitance information is used to determine whether the foot is present in the area adjacent to the midsole plate 140. In some embodiments, the method may be configured to determine whether the The electrode extends from the forwardmost edge of the forward flange 143 to the rearmost edge of the rear flange 144. In other embodiments, the flanges are only partially covered by the ferrule. Then lay the electrodes.

[0028] In some embodiments, the footwear or powered lacing system 100 may be configured to detect the presence of the foot within the footwear. Foot position characteristics within the footwear can be monitored or determined. having one or more sensors or interfacing with one or more sensors Based on information from one or more such foot presence sensors, the motorized lacing system Footwear having stem 100 can be configured to perform a variety of functions, such as: The foot presence sensor outputs a binary value indicating whether a foot is present or absent in the footwear. In some embodiments, the foot presence sensor may be connected to the The associated processor circuitry receives and interprets the digital or analog signal information and performs the It provides binary information about whether a foot is present or not in the object. If the binary signal indicates that a foot is present, the lacing in the powered lacing system 100 Activating the tightening power source 110, for example, to automatically increase or decrease tension on the lacing cable. or actuating other footwear restraining means to tighten or loosen the footwear around the foot. In some embodiments, the lacing power source 110 or other portion of the footwear may receive a signal from the foot presence sensor. It has processor circuitry capable of receiving or interpreting the signal.

[0029] In some embodiments, the foot presence sensor detects the position of the foot as it is entering the footwear. The electric lacing power source 100 can be configured to provide information about the , within footwear, for example, to properly position the foot relative to all or a portion of the insole of the footwear article. Or, the lacing cables can be activated to tighten only when the user sits down. Foot presence sensors that sense information about foot movement or positioning are located in insoles in footwear. whether it rests completely or partially against a surface or against some other feature until the sensor information indicates that the foot is in the correct position. can interrupt or delay the automatic lacing procedure.

[0030] In some embodiments, a foot presence sensor collects information about the relative position of the foot within the footwear. The foot presence sensor may be configured to provide, for example, a footwear presence sensor for both feet. Whether or not the shoe "fits" the line, for example, the arch, heel, and toes of the foot. (toe) or other foot element(s) adapted to accommodate one or more such foot elements. Sensing by determining the relative position of the corresponding part in the configured footwear In some embodiments, the foot presence sensor may be a portion or element of the foot. whether or not the position varies over time relative to a specified or pre-recorded reference position, e.g. due to the lacing cables loosening over time, or due to the natural expansion or contraction of the foot itself. The sensor may be configured to sense whether the voltage changes due to a voltage change.

[0031] In some embodiments, the foot presence sensor is configured to sense or receive information about body presence. Electrical, magnetic, thermal, capacitive, pneumatic, optical, or other type of sensor that can be constructed For example, the electrical sensor may have a sensor device between at least two electrodes. an impedance sensor configured to measure an impedance characteristic at the When a body part such as a foot is positioned close to or adjacent to the electrode, the electrical sensor and providing a sensor signal having a second value when the body is positioned remotely from the electrodes. In some embodiments, a sensor signal having a first impedance The value may be related to the empty state of the footwear, and a second impedance smaller than that may be The value can be related to the state in which the footwear is occupied.

[0032] Electrical sensors include AC signal generating circuits and high frequency signal generating circuits, including radio frequency signals. and an antenna configured to transmit or receive the signal. based on proximity to one another, such as impedance, frequency, or signal amplitude. receiving and analyzing one or more electrical signal characteristics to determine whether a body is present; In some embodiments, the received signal strength indicator (RSSI) may be used to indicate the absence of reception. It provides information about the power level in the line signal, e.g., some baseline or Using the change in RSSI relative to a reference value to identify the presence or absence of a body In some embodiments, WiFi frequencies, e.g., 2.4 GHz, 3.6 GHz, Use one or more of the 4.9GHz, 5GHz, or 5.9GHz bands In some embodiments, frequencies in the kilohertz range, for example, around 400 kHz, can be used. In some embodiments, milliwatt or microwatt power levels can be used. The power signal changes in the range can be detected.

[0033] The foot presence sensor includes a magnetic sensor. The first magnetic sensor has a magnet and a magnetometer. In some embodiments, the magnetometer is located within or near the lacing power source 110. The magnet can be located remotely from the lacing power source 110, for example, on an outsole. 165. In some embodiments, the magnets are embedded within the foam or other compressible material of the second sole. When the user presses the second sole while standing or walking, a corresponding pressure is applied to the magnetometer. Changes in the position of the magnet can be sensed and signaled by a sensor signal.

[0034] A second magnetic sensor senses changes or interruptions in the magnetic field (e.g., via the Hall effect). When the body is in proximity to the second magnetic sensor, the sensor The sensor can generate a signal indicative of changes in the surrounding magnetic field. Examples include Hall effect sensors, which change their voltage output signal in response to changes in the magnetic field they sense. The voltage change of the output signal may be, for example, a cross-current electrical signal in a conductor. It can be caused by creating a voltage difference across a conductor and by a magnetic field perpendicular to the current.

[0035] In some embodiments, the second magnetic sensor is configured to receive electromagnetic field signals from the body. For example, "Devices, systems and Devices, systems and methods for security using magnetic field based ide U.S. Patent No. 8,929,299 to Varshavsky et al., entitled "Antenna for Optical Illumination," No. 752,200 teaches the use of a body-specific electromagnetic signature for authentication. In one embodiment, the magnetic sensor in the footwear identifies the current user by the detected electromagnetic signature. The shoe owner and the owner's one or more specific lacing preferences (e.g., fit profile) It can be used to authenticate or confirm that the laces should be automatically tightened in accordance with the Cut.

[0036] In some embodiments, the foot presence sensor is a temperature change sensor at or near a portion of the footwear. The thermal sensor is configured to sense the temperature change of the foot of the wearer when the foot of the wearer enters the footwear article. When the wearer's own body temperature differs from the external temperature of the footwear, the internal temperature of the footwear changes. Therefore, the thermal sensor may not be based on the presence of a foot or a change in temperature. A representation can be provided where:

[0037] In some embodiments, the foot presence sensor is configured to sense capacitance changes. The capacitive sensor may have a single plate or electrode, or may have a capacitance sensor The capacitive foot presence sensor may have a multi-plate or multi-electrode configuration. Examples of are further described herein.

[0038] In some embodiments, the foot presence sensor includes an optical sensor. to determine whether a line of sight is blocked, such as between opposing sides of a facility. In some embodiments, the optical sensor detects the movement of the foot when the foot is inserted into the footwear. The device includes a light sensor that can be covered by the foot when the device is in use. The sensor indicates a change in light or brightness conditions detected by the sensor. When this occurs, the presence or position of the feet can be indicated.

[0039] Any of the different types of foot presence sensors described herein can be used independently or using information from two or more different sensors or sensor types together, More information about foot presence, foot absence, orientation, fit with footwear, or foot and / or information about its relationship to footwear.

[0040] 2A-2C illustrate a sensor system and a motorized lacing power supply, according to some exemplary embodiments. FIG. 2A shows an example of an external source (engine) of a lacing power source 110. These external features include a housing assembly 150, case screws 108, , the string channel 112 (also referred to as the string guide relief 112), the string channel transition portion 11 4, spool recess 115, button opening 122, button 121, button membrane seal 124, A programmable header 128, a spool 131, and a string groove 1 in the spool 131 32. Other designs can be used as well, e.g., sealed dome switches. Other switch types may be used, such as, or the membrane seal 124 may be eliminated. In some embodiments, the lacing power source 110 may include an internal circuit for the lacing power source 110. One or more interconnects that interface the lacing power source 110 with external circuitry. The external circuitry may include, for example, an external foot presence sensor (or or components thereof), external actuators such as switches or buttons, or may be other devices or components.

[0041] The lacing power source 110 is attached to the case by one or more screws, such as case screws 108. The case screws 108 are positioned near the primary drive mechanism and can be tightened. This increases the structural integrity of the power source 110. The case screws 108 are also An assembly process is provided to hold the housing assemblies 150 together for ultrasonic welding of the joints. It serves the function of supporting the process.

[0042] In the embodiment of FIG. 2A, the lacing power source 110 is configured to provide this power source to the automated footwear platform. The frame has a string channel 112 for receiving the string or string cable after assembly. The channel 112 is configured to provide a smooth guide surface along which the tie cable can travel during operation. The smooth gusset of the string channel 112 may have channel walls with chamfered edges. The portion at the id surface may have a channel transition 114, The row portion 114 may be a widened portion of the string channel 112 leading to the spool recess 115. The spool recess 115 closely follows the contour of the spool 131 from the channel transition 114. The spool recess 115 holds the wound string cable. This can also help maintain the position of the spool 131. This design provides another means of retaining the spool 131. In the embodiment of FIG. The spool 131 extends from the flat top surface and out the opposite side via a spool shaft (not shown in FIG. 2A). It has a shape similar to a yo-yo half with a string groove 132 running downward from the face.

[0043] One side of the lacing power source 110 has a button opening 122, which to actuate or adjust one or more features in the automatic footwear platform. The button 121 may be configured as a button 122. The button 121 may be configured as a button 122. An external interface can be provided to activate the individual switches. In one embodiment, the housing assembly 150 includes a button membrane shield that provides protection from dust and moisture. In this embodiment, the button membrane seal 124 is a few mils (several 1 / 1 000 inches thick clear plastic (or similar material) for the housing structure. It can be attached from the top surface of the body 150, for example, over the corners and down to one side surface. In another embodiment, the button membrane seal 124 can be attached to the button 121 and the button opening 122. 22. Other types of buttons and stickers Roll material can be used as well.

[0044] FIG. 2B illustrates a housing assembly 15 including a top section 102 and a bottom section 104. In this embodiment, the top section includes case screws 108, string channel transitions, and The row portion 114, the spool recess 115, the button opening 122, and the button seal recess 126 are In some embodiments, the button seal recess 126 is formed by the button membrane seal. 124. This is the portion of the top section 102 that is relieved to provide a fit for the bolt 124.

[0045] In the embodiment of FIG. 2B, the bottom section 104 includes a wireless charger access 105, a connection The grease barrier 109 is also provided with a grease fitting 106 and a grease barrier 109. Not identified are the case screw bases that house the case screws 108, as well as portions of the drive mechanism. The various features within the grease bulkhead 109 that holds the drive motor are shown. Grease or similar compound surrounding the structure may be used to maintain the various electrical Design it to be isolated from the components.

[0046] The housing assembly 150 includes one of the top section 102 and the bottom section 104. One or more electrodes 17 embedded in or attached to the surface of the structure, or both 0. The electrode 170 in the embodiment of FIG. 2B may have a bottom section 104 In some embodiments, the electrode 170 is shown coupled to a capacitance-based Foot presence sensor circuitry (e.g., foot presence sensor 310, described in more detail below) that Additionally or alternatively, the electrode 170 may be coupled to the top section 102. Electrodes coupled to the top section 102 or bottom section 104 are used for wireless power delivery. and / or for use as part of a capacitance-based foot presence sensor circuit In some embodiments, the electrodes 170 are disposed on the exterior surface of the housing structure 150. The electrode 170 may have one or more portions, and in other embodiments, The housing assembly 150 has one or more portions disposed on the interior surface thereof.

[0047] FIG. 2C illustrates various internal components of an electric lacing power source, according to some exemplary embodiments. In this embodiment, the lacing power source 110 further includes a spool. Magnet 136, O-ring seal 138, worm drive part 140, bushing 141, worm Drive key, gearbox 148, gear motor 145, motor encoder 146, motor rotation Road plate 147, worm gear 151, circuit board 160, motor header 161, battery connector The spool magnet 136 has a magnetometer (see FIG. 2C) assists in tracking movement of spool 131. O-ring seal 138 prevents dust and moisture from entering the lacing power source 110 from around the spool shaft. The circuit board 160 functions to seal the circuit board, such as the capacitive foot presence sensor 310 described below. The foot presence sensor may have one or more interfaces or interconnections for various foot presence sensors. In some embodiments, the circuit board 160 may include one or more sensors that are part of the foot presence sensor 310. has more wiring or conductive planes.

[0048] In this embodiment, the main driving components of the lacing power source 110 are: The gearbox 148 includes a worm drive 140, a worm gear 151, a gear motor 145, and a gear box 148. The worm gear 151 is a reverse drive (back drive) for the worm drive unit 140 and the gear motor 145. This back drive is designed to prevent the string cable from being pulled through the spool 131. The large force input from the worm gear separates the teeth of the relatively large worm gear and worm drive. This configuration allows the footwear platform to absorb the dynamic loads that result from dynamic use. Sufficient gear strength to withstand both the load and the clamping load from tightening the lacing system. This protects the gearbox 148 so that there is no need to adjust the worm drive 14 0 helps protect various vulnerable parts of the drive system, such as the worm drive key In this embodiment, the worm drive key is connected to the gearbox 148 The motor side of the worm drive 140 is fitted with a pin that penetrates the drive shaft protruding from the This configuration allows the worm drive 140 to be mounted in the gearbox 1. 48 or gear motor 145, this prevention is The worm drive 140 is free to move axially (away from the gearbox 148), These axial loads can be transmitted to the bushing 141 and the housing structure 150. This is done by:

[0049] FIG. 3 is a block diagram of components of a powered lacing system 300, according to an exemplary embodiment. The block diagram is shown generally in Figure 3. This system 300 includes several components of a powered lacing system. Components include, but are not limited to, interface buttons 301, a quantitative foot presence sensor 310 and a housing assembly 150, The PCA 320 includes a processor circuit, a battery 321, and a printed circuit board assembly (PCA) 320. , charging coil 322, encoder 325, motion sensor 324, and drive mechanism 340. The drive mechanism 340 includes, among other things, a motor 341, a transmission 342, and a string spool. The motion sensor 324 may include, among others, a single axis or multi-axis sensor. Axial accelerometers, magnetometers, gyrometers, and the like are mounted inside or in the housing assembly 150. The sensor is configured to sense the movement of one or more components coupled to the sensor assembly 150. There may be other sensors or devices configured in this way.

[0050] In the embodiment of FIG. 3, the processor circuit 320 controls the interface button 301, the foot rest, and the The presence sensor 310, the battery 321, the charging coil 322, and the driving mechanism 340 are connected to the data or The transmission 342 connects the motor 341 to the spool 343. 3, the button 301, the foot presence sensor 302, and the drive mechanism 340 are formed. 10 and the environmental sensor 350 are located outside or partially outside the housing assembly 150. show.

[0051] In an alternative embodiment, the button 301, the foot presence sensor 310, and the environmental sensor 350 One or more of the components may be enclosed within the housing assembly 150. In the present embodiment, the foot presence sensor 310 is disposed inside the housing structure 150 and detects sweat, dust, or protects the sensor from debris; reduces the number of connections that penetrate the wall of the housing assembly 150; Removing or eliminating these components can help improve the durability and reliability of the assembly. Cut.

[0052] In some embodiments, the processor circuit 320 controls one or more of the drive mechanisms 340. For example, the processor circuit 320 may be configured to control the movement of the button 310 and / or the foot. receive information from the sensor 310 and / or from the motion sensor 324 and drive accordingly. The footwear may be configured to control the movement mechanism 340, for example, to tighten or loosen the footwear around the foot. In some embodiments, the processor circuitry 320 may additionally or alternatively include Commands to acquire or record sensor information from the presence sensor 310 or other functional sensors In some embodiments, the processor circuit 320 is configured to generate a foot presence signal. 10 to detect foot presence, and foot orientation or position using foot presence sensor 310. or detecting a specific gesture using the motion sensor 324. or more, the operation of the drive mechanism 340 is adjusted.

[0053] In some embodiments, the system 300 includes an environmental sensor 350. 0 to update the baseline or reference value of the foot presence sensor 310. As further described below, capacitive foot presence sensors The capacitance value measured by the Using information from the environmental sensors 350, the processor circuit 320 and / or The foot presence sensor 310 updates or recalculates the measured or sensed capacitance value. can be configured to adjust.

[0054] FIG. 4 illustrates a nominal or radiant temperature profile within an article of footwear 400 when the wearer of the article of footwear is standing. Pressure distribution data of an average foot (left side) and a foot with a high arch FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing fabric data (right side). In this embodiment, the area where the sole pressure is relatively large is The product is a heel region 401, a ball region 402 (e.g., the area between the arch and the toe). It can be seen that the toe area 403 (e.g., the "big toe" area) is included in the first toe area 404. However, as mentioned above, various dynamic (activation) forces are applied to concentrated areas such as the arch area or its vicinity. It may be advantageous to provide a foot presence sensor 310 (including, for example, a foot presence sensor 310) In some embodiments, when wearing an article of footwear that includes the housing structure 150, the arch of the foot may be First, the housing structure 150 in the area is generally not noticeable or bothersome to the user. It could be something undesirable.

[0055] In the embodiment of FIG. 4, the lacing power source 141 may be located in the arch area. One or more electrodes corresponding to the foot presence sensor 310 may be located at the first location 405 or can be positioned near the first location 405. The measured capacitance value can differ based on the proximity of the foot to the first location. For example, different capacitance values ​​can be obtained for an average foot and a high arch foot. This is because the surface of the foot itself is at a different distance from the first position 405. In some embodiments, the location of the foot presence sensor 310 and / or the lacing power source 110 may be recorded. Adjustments to the product (e.g., by the user or a technician at the point of sale) can be made to different It is possible to adapt to different foot characteristics of users and to improve the signal quality obtained from the foot presence sensor 310. In some embodiments, the sensitivity of the foot presence sensor 310 can be increased, e.g. For example, increasing the drive signal level or increasing the capacitance of a dielectric located between the foot presence sensor 310 and the foot. The thermal conductivity can be adjusted by varying the thermal conductivity of the material.

[0056] 5A and 5B illustrate a capacitance insole of an article of footwear, according to an exemplary embodiment. 1 shows a schematic diagram of a capacitance-based foot presence sensor. The sensor detects the movement of an object or body 550, such as a foot, when the article incorporating the sensor is worn. It can be provided on the underside.

[0057] In FIG. 5A, the capacitance-based foot presence sensor is a capacitive-sensing controller. The electrode assembly 501A may have a first electrode assembly 501A connected to a roller circuit 502. In an embodiment, the controller circuit 502 is included within the processor circuit 320 or In the embodiment of FIG. 5A, the first electrode The assembly 501A and / or the controller circuit 502 are located inside the housing structure 150. may be contained within or attached to a portion or within the housing structure 150 In some embodiments, the first electrode assembly 501A can be connected to a PCA. It may be disposed on or adjacent to the foot-facing surface of the housing structure 150. In the illustrated embodiment, the first electrode assembly 501A is located on the interior top surface area of ​​the housing structure 150. It has a plurality of wirings distributed across it.

[0058] In FIG. 5B, a second electrode assembly connected to a capacitively sensitive controller circuit 502 is shown. This second electrode assembly 501B can have a housing structure. 150 or near the outer portion thereof, and may be attached to, for example, a flexible connector. 511 can be used to electrically connect to the PCA inside the housing assembly 150. In some embodiments, the second electrode assembly 501B is located within the housing structure 150. It may be located on or adjacent to the foot-facing surface. The pole assembly 501B includes a flexible circuit fixed to the inside or outside surface of the housing structure 150. and connects to processor circuitry 320 via one or more conductors.

[0059] In one embodiment, the controller circuit 502 is an ATSAML2 manufactured by Atmel. 1E18B-MU, STMicroelectronics STM32L476M, or other similar devices The controller circuit 502 controls, among other things, the first or second electrode assembly 501A. or 501B, providing an AC drive signal to at least one electrode pair, and As will be explained in more detail below, the proximity of the object or body 550 to the electrode pair The device may be configured to sense changes in the electric field based on corresponding changes. The controller circuit 502 may include a foot presence sensor 310 or a processor circuit 320. is used.

[0060] Various materials may be provided between the electrode assembly 501 and the object or body 550 to be sensed. For example, the electrode insulator, the material of the housing structure 150, the insole material, insert material 510, socks or other foot coverings, body tape, exercise physiology tape, or Other materials may be interposed between the body 550 and the electrode assembly 501 to alter the dielectric properties of the footwear. This changes the capacitance of the sensor that includes or uses the electrode assembly 501. The controller circuit 502 can be configured to affect the sensitivity of the impedance detection. Update or adjust excitation or sensing parameters based on the number or type of intervening materials. This adjusts the capacitance value sensed using, for example, the electrode assembly 501. The sensor may be configured to improve the sensitivity or signal-to-noise ratio of the sensor.

[0061] In the embodiment of FIGS. 5A / 5B, the first and / or second electrode assemblies 501A and / or or 501B may be excited by a signal generator within the controller circuit 502. This results in the electric field being emitted from the side of the top of the electrode assembly facing the foot. In some embodiments, the electric field beneath the electrode assembly may be generated by a sensing electrode located beneath the sensing electrode. This can be at least partially blocked using a driven shield that is configured to The driven shield and the electrode assembly may be electrically isolated from each other. For example, , when the first electrode assembly 501A is on one surface of the PCA, the driven shield is P It can be placed in the bottom layer of a CA or in any one of the inner layers of a multi-layer PCA. In some embodiments, the driven shield can be positioned on the surface of the first electrode assembly 501A. The area of ​​the first electrode assembly 501 may be equal to or greater than the area of ​​the first electrode assembly 501. It can be centered just below A.

[0062] The driven shield is capable of receiving a drive signal and generating an electric field in response thereto. The electric field generated by the driven shield is the electric field generated by the first electrode assembly 501A. The driven seal may be substantially the same in polarity, phase and / or magnitude as the electric field. The electric field of the first electrode assembly 501A can repel the electric field of the first electrode assembly 501B, thereby Isolating the sensor field from various parasitic effects such as unwanted coupling to the CA ground plane The electric field generated by the driven shield can be used for direct and focused detection of specific areas. It can help reduce environmental effects and reduce parasitic capacitance. In some embodiments, the driven seal may be used to reduce the effect of the driven seal. The inclusion of a temperature gauge can mitigate the effects of temperature changes on the sensor assembly. Temperature can affect the parasitic offset characteristics, and temperature changes can also affect parasitic ground This may change the surface capacitance. Using such a shield reduces the effect of parasitic ground plane capacitance from the sensor measurements. can help to reduce it.

[0063] A driven shield may be similarly provided for use with the second electrode assembly 501B. For example, the second electrode assembly 501B may be mounted in a housing 501B, as shown in the embodiment of FIG. It may be located above or adjacent to the structure 150. A portion of the housing assembly 150 includes or is made of a conductive film used as a driven shield. Additionally or alternatively, the driven shield may be partially covered thereby. The second electrode assembly 501B is located at or adjacent to the top of the housing structure 150. When provided in an external location, it can be provided elsewhere on the footwear article.

[0064] A preferred location for the housing structure 150 is the arch area of ​​the footwear, i.e. That is, the surface area is less likely to be felt by the wearer and is less likely to cause discomfort to the wearer. One advantage of using capacitive sensing to detect the foot in place is that the capacitive sensor can be placed in the arch area. and comfortable even when the user has a relatively or abnormally high arch. The advantage of this is that a quantity sensor can function well, for example, by controlling the magnitude or The morphological characteristics may vary or change based on the detected signal-to-noise ratio of the signal received from the capacitive sensor. In some embodiments, the sensor drive signal may be selected each time the footwear is used. The first or second electrode assembly may be updated or adjusted, for example. One or more materials disposed between the rib 501A or 501B and the body 550 It can accommodate changes in footwear (e.g. socks, insoles, etc.).

[0065] In some embodiments, an electrode assembly of a capacitive sensor, such as a first or second electrode assembly, Bridge 501A or 501B is between multiple electrodes, for example, an X-axis oriented electrode and a Y-axis oriented electrode. In some embodiments, the sensor may be configured to sense the signal difference between The sampling frequency may be between about 2 and 50 Hz. Passivity-based foot presence sensing technology detects the presence of the foot on the insole or in the sock around the foot. It can be relatively invariant to sweating (moisture). The effect of such moisture is measured when the presence of moisture is Increasing the capacitance may reduce the dynamic range of detection. However, in some embodiments, the dynamic range may vary depending on the expected level of moisture in the footwear. It is sufficient to address this effect within

[0066] FIG. 6 illustrates a capacitive sensor system 600 for foot presence detection, according to an exemplary embodiment. The system 600 is shown in FIG. The electrodes 601 and 602 are connected to the suction cup 601. 2 is connected to the first and second electrode assemblies 501A or 501B from the embodiment of FIG. 5A / B. For example, a portion of the foot presence sensor 310 may be formed in whole or in part in the In the embodiment of FIG. 6, the first and second electrodes 601 and 602 may have Although shown vertically spaced apart from each other and from the body 550, e.g., in FIGS. As will be explained in detail in the embodiment of C, they may also be spaced apart horizontally. In some embodiments, the electrodes may be positioned in a plane parallel to the underside of the body 550. In this embodiment, the first electrode 601 is configured as a transmitting electrode and is connected to the signal generator 6 10. In one embodiment, signal generator 610 is connected to the processor 100 from the embodiment of FIG. That is, the processor circuit 320 is a part of the drive signal and configured to provide a drive signal to the first electrode 601.

[0067] Exciting the first electrode 601 with a drive signal from signal generator 610 results in an electric field 615 can occur mainly between the first electrode 601 and the second electrode 602. , various components of the generated electric field 615 are Other peripheral components of the generated electric field 615 may extend in other directions. For example, the peripheral component may extend from the transmitter electrode or first electrode 601 to the housing structure 1. 50 (not shown in the embodiment of FIG. 6) and a receiver or second electrode 602.

[0068] information about the changes in the electric field 615 due to the proximity of the body 550 Information about the second electrode 602 can be sensed or received by the second electrode 602. The signals sensed from the body 550 can be processed using various circuits and can be used to determine the presence or absence of a body 550. can be used to provide an analog or digital signal indicating absence.

[0069] For example, the field strength of the electric field 615 is received by the second electrode 602 and is also measured by a capacitor Σ-Δ analog to digital converter configured to convert the display analog signal to a digital signal. The electrical environment near the electrodes is measured using an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) 620. When an object such as a body 550 enters an electric field 615 that includes a peripheral component, it changes. When 50 enters the electric field, a portion of the electric field 615 is received and terminated at the second electrode 602. Instead, it is shunted to ground or passes through the body 550 before being received by the electrode 602 ( (instead of airborne). This results in the foot presence sensor 310 and / or processor circuit This can result in a capacitance change that can be detected by 320.

[0070] In some embodiments, the second electrode 602 receives the electric field information substantially continuously, and this information can be sampled continuously or periodically by ADC 620. The information from 0 is processed or updated according to the offset amount 621, and then the digital In some embodiments, the offset amount 621 can be a capacitance. The offset is a specified or programmable amount (e.g., a processor circuit 320), or to track environmental changes over time, temperature, and other variable characteristics of the environment. The capacitance may be based on other capacitors used in

[0071] In some embodiments, the digital output signal 622 may be, for example, a measured capacitance value. By comparing the value of the threshold value to a specific threshold, a binary value of the determined presence or absence of the body 550 is obtained. In some embodiments, the digital output signal 622 may include information about the measured capacitance. This information can be used to calculate the capacitance of a processor circuit. 320) can indicate the possible presence or absence of a body 550.

[0072] Periodically, or whenever the foot presence sensor 310 is not active (e.g., Measure the capacitance value (as determined using information from capacitance sensor 324) and can be saved as a reference, baseline, or ambient value. When the foot approaches the foot presence sensor 310 and the first and second electrodes 601 and 602, the measurement The capacitance measured may, for example, be increased or decreased relative to a stored reference value. One or more threshold capacitance levels may be set by, for example, the processor circuit 320 The measured capacitance value can be stored in an on-chip register having a specific When the threshold is exceeded, the body 550 detects a presence ( (or absence) can be determined.

[0073] Foot presence sensor 310 and electrodes 601 and 602 that form part of foot presence sensor 310 O2 can take several different forms, as shown in some non-limiting examples below. In some embodiments, the foot presence sensor 310 may include multiple electrodes or plates. The mutual capacitance information is sensed or used.

[0074] In one embodiment, the electrodes 601 and 602 are arranged as an electrode grid. The lid-based capacitive sensor uses a variable capacitor at each intersection of each row and column in the grid. Optionally, the electrode grid may have one or more rows or columns. The electrodes are arranged in a row or column. A voltage signal can be applied to the row or column, and the sensor surface is The body or legs in the In some embodiments, multiple The body position can be determined by measuring the capacitance change at a point, and this measurement is This is done by measuring the voltage on each axis. In some embodiments, the mutual capacitance The measurement technique can provide information from multiple locations around the grid simultaneously.

[0075] In some embodiments, mutual capacitance measurements are performed using an orthogonal grid of transmitting and receiving electrodes. In such a grid-based sensor system, the measurements are In some embodiments, multiple capacitors can be used to detect the XY coordinates of each of the multiple XY coordinate pairs. This capacitance information can be used to determine the presence or orientation of the foot within the footwear. In another embodiment, capacitance from one or more capacitors can be Information can be acquired and analyzed over time to determine foot presence or foot orientation. In an embodiment, rate of change information for the X and / or Y sensed coordinates is used to determine whether the foot is in footwear. It is possible to determine when or whether the insole is properly or completely seated. can.

[0076] In some embodiments, the self-capacitance based foot presence sensor is a mutual capacitance sensor. It is possible to have the same XY grid as the sensors, but with columns and rows operating independently. In a self-capacitance sensor, the capacitance of the body in each column or row can be measured. The load can be detected independently.

[0077] FIG. 7 illustrates an enlarged schematic diagram of a first capacitance-based foot presence sensor, according to an exemplary embodiment. In the embodiment of Figure 7, the first capacitive sensor 700 comprises a plurality of parallel capacitive plates. The plurality of plates may, for example, be configured to detect when an article of footwear having the first capacitance sensor 700 is worn. The housing structure 150 is arranged on or within the foot and is positioned on or near the sole of the foot. In some embodiments, the capacitive foot presence sensor 310 may include a first capacitive sensor 700. Contains or uses.

[0078] In the embodiment of FIG. 7, four capacitance plates are shown as 701 to 704. The plate may be made of a conductive material such as a conductive foil. The foil can be flexible and optionally can be made of plastic, such as the housing structure 150. Any conductive material such as film, ink, or deposited metal can be used. In the embodiment of FIG. 7, plates 701-704 are coplanar. The electrodes are arranged within and spaced apart to form discrete conductive elements or electrodes.

[0079] The capacitance value of a capacitor is determined by the amount of material between the two plates that form the capacitor. The capacitance of the first capacitive sensor 700 is functionally related to the dielectric constant of the material. A capacitor can be formed between each pair of tap plates 701 to 704. Thus, six effective capacitances are generated, shown in Figure 7 as capacitors A, B, C, D, E, and F. The capacitor can be formed by six unique combination pairs of capacitor plates 701-704. Optionally, two or more plates can be electrically connected to form a single plate. That is, in some embodiments, the capacitor can be connected to the first conductor. For this purpose, first and second capacitor plates 701 and 702 are used, which are electrically connected to each other. and a third and fourth conductors electrically connected to each other to obtain a second conductor. Four capacitor plates 703 and 704 can be used.

[0080] In some embodiments, the capacitance between the first capacitor 701 and the second capacitor 702 The volume effect is represented by a virtual capacitor, designated by the letter A in Figure 7. First Capacitor 701 The capacitive effect between the third capacitor 703 and the third capacitor 704 is represented by a virtual capacitor B in FIG. The capacitance effect between the second capacitor 702 and the fourth capacitor 704 is expressed as follows: The result is represented by a virtual capacitor, shown in Figure 7 as letter C. Those skilled in the art will understand that each virtual capacitor It will be understood that a capacitor represents an electric field extending between a corresponding pair of capacitor plates. For ease of illustration, the capacitance formed by each pair of capacitor plates is shown below. Capacitors are referenced by the letters used in Figure 7 (e.g., "A," "B," etc.) and are virtual keys. Identify the capacities.

[0081] For each pair of capacitor plates in the embodiment of FIG. 7, the effective dielectric between the plates is For each pair of capacitor plates, there is an air gap (or other material) disposed between the plates. Any part of the body or foot that is in close proximity to a corresponding pair of capacitive plates will generate a certain amount of capacitance. It can be part of or affect the effective dielectric in the pair, i.e. A variable inductance is provided between each capacitor plate pair according to the proximity of the body to the corresponding plate pair. For example, if the body or foot is close to a certain plate pair, As the value of the dielectric constant increases, the capacitance Such capacitance value changes are received by the processor circuit 320. This can be used to determine whether a body is present at or near the first capacitive sensor 700. It can indicate whether it exists or not.

[0082] In an embodiment of the foot presence sensor 310 including the capacitive sensor 700, multiple capacitive sensor drives / Monitoring circuits can be connected to plates 701-704. For example, separate driving / A monitor circuit can be associated with the capacitor plate pair in the embodiment of FIG. In one embodiment, the drive / monitor circuitry generates a drive signal (e.g., a time-varying electrical excitation signal). Capacitance readings can be received in response to the capacitor plate pair. Each drive / monitor circuit can be connected to an associated capacitor (e.g., first and second Measure the variable capacitance of the capacitor "A" corresponding to plates 701 and 702 of the and further configured to provide a signal indicative of the measured capacitance value. The drive / monitor circuitry can be configured to provide a In some embodiments, two or more drives may be used. The drive / monitor circuit can be used together to measure capacitance with different capacitors, for example. The difference between the values ​​of the temperature sensor and the temperature sensor may be displayed.

[0083] FIG. 8 illustrates a schematic diagram of a second capacitance-based foot presence sensor, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. The embodiment of FIG. 8 shows a second capacitance sensor including first and second electrodes 801 and 802. The foot presence sensor 310 may include or use a second capacitive sensor 800. In the embodiment of FIG. 8, the first and second electrodes 801 and 802 are substantially planar. In one embodiment, the processor circuit 320 The drive circuitry described above controls the excitation or stimulation signals applied to the first and second electrodes 801 and 802. The same or different circuits can be configured to generate the first and second electrodes 80 802. The method of claim 8, further comprising sensing a response signal indicative of a change in capacitance between the first and second electrodes. The capacitance can be affected by the presence of the body or foot to the electrode. For example, the first and second electrodes 801 and 802 can be mounted on, for example, a housing a housing structure 150 adjacent to the foot when the foot is present in footwear including the structure 150; The nanoparticles may be arranged on or near the surface of the nanoparticles.

[0084] In one embodiment, the second capacitive sensor 800 is configured with an XY grid to form an electrode pattern. Additionally or alternatively, the second capacitive sensor 8 may have an etched conductive layer, such as a lid. The 00 electrode etches multiple separate and parallel layers of conductive material; For example, a wire may be etched to provide lines or tracks that are perpendicular to one another to form a grid. In this and other capacitive sensors, the body or foot Direct contact between the conductive layer or electrode and the conductive layer or electrode is not required. For example, the conductive layer or electrode may be It may be embedded within the housing structure 150 or coated with a protective or insulating layer. Instead, the body or foot to be sensed does not interfere with the electric field characteristics near the electrodes. Or it can affect and detect the electric field change.

[0085] In some embodiments, a separate capacitance value is provided between the first electrode 80 and a ground or reference. 1 and the second electrode 802 relative to ground or reference. The signals used for detection are measured for the first and second electrodes 801 and 802, respectively. It can be based on the difference between capacitance values, i.e., foot presence or foot detection. The signal is measured using first and second electrodes 801 and 802. It may be based on the difference between the signals.

[0086] 9A and 9B generally illustrate an example of a third capacitive sensor 900 according to some embodiments. FIG. 9C generally illustrates an example of a fourth capacitive sensor 902. FIG. 9A illustrates an example of a third capacitive sensor 900. FIG. 9B shows a schematic plan view of a sensor assembly 901 including a third capacitive sensor 900. 9C shows a schematic plan view of the fourth capacitive sensor 902.

[0087] In the embodiment of FIG. 9A, the third capacitive sensor 900 includes a first electrode wiring 911 and a second electrode The first and second electrode wirings 911 and 912 are insulated. In some embodiments, the first and second electrode wires 911 and and 912 can be copper, carbon, silver, among other conductive materials, and It can be placed on substrates made from FR4, polyimide, and PET, among others. The substrate and wiring of the capacitive sensor 900 may include one or more flexible portions. .

[0088] The first and second electrode wirings 911 and 912 are connected to the surface of the substrate of the third capacitive sensor 900. The electrode wiring can be distributed substantially over the entire area. The housing assembly 150 may be positioned to abut against the upper or top surface of the housing assembly 150 when the housing assembly 150 is in place. In some embodiments, one or both of the first and second electrode wirings 911 and 912 are The insulator traces 913 may have a width of approximately 2 mm. In some embodiments, trace width may be based on, among other things, footwear size or insole type. For example, the distance between the wiring and the body to be sensed, the insole material, etc. , gap filler, the material of the housing structure 150, or other materials used in the footwear. For example, the signal-to-noise ratio of the capacitance value measured using the third capacitive sensor 900 is To maximize the size ratio, different wiring widths are provided for the first and second electrode wirings 911 and 912. and / or may be selected for the insulator wiring 913.

[0089] The third capacitive sensor 900 may have a connector 915. The connector 915 The connectors are connected to a mating connector that is connected to a PCA in the housing assembly 150. The matching connector connects the first and second electrode wirings 911 and 912 to the processor circuit. There may be one or more conductors electrically connecting to the trace 320 .

[0090] In some embodiments, the third capacitive sensor 900 has input signal conductors 920A and 920B. Input signal conductors 920A and 920B may be connected to one or more input devices, e.g. , dome button or other switch corresponding to button 121 in the embodiment of FIG. 2A. The device can be configured to connect to

[0091] FIG. 9B shows the third capacitive sensor 900, buttons 121A and 121B, and membrane seal 12 4A and 124B. In one embodiment, the input signal Corresponding conductive surfaces on conductors 920A and 920B are connected to buttons 121A and 121B. The thin film seals 124A and 124B are attached onto the buttons 121A and 121B, e.g. For example, buttons 121A and 121B are protected from debris and kept aligned with conductive surfaces. do.

[0092] In the embodiment of FIG. 9C, the fourth capacitive sensor 902 has a first electrode wiring 921 and a second electrode wiring 922. The first and second electrode wirings 921 and 922 are made of an insulator. The electrode wiring can be made of various conductive materials and can be separated by wiring 923. The fourth capacitive sensor 902 may have one or more flexible portions. The sensor 902 may have a connector 925 and may be connected to the PCA of the housing assembly 150. The connector can be connected to a matching connector such that the connector can be connected to a matching connector.

[0093] The inventors have identified a problem to be solved, for example, where all or part of the foot presence sensor detects Capacitive foot presence sensor when separated from the foot or body by an air gap or other intervening material The inventors have recognized that the key to success lies in establishing the appropriate sensitivity or response from the For example, multiple electrodes of a particular shape, size, and orientation may be used to generate a voltage when the electrodes are energized. The inventors have recognized that the present invention includes enhancing the orientation and relative strength of the electric field generated in the identified the optimal electrode configuration for use in capacitive foot presence sensing.

[0094] In one embodiment, the electrodes of the fourth capacitive sensor 902 are connected to the first and second electrode wires 92. The first and second electrode wirings 921 and 922 are approximately The electrode has a plurality of discrete fingers or wiring portions extending in parallel. For example, the first and second electrode wiring Lines 921 and 922 have multiple interleaved conductive fingers, as shown in FIG. 9C. It is possible.

[0095] In some embodiments, the second electrode wiring 922 is located on the outer periphery or surface of the fourth capacitive sensor 902. It may have a shoreline or edge that lies approximately along the surface, or In the embodiment of FIG. 9C, the second electrode wiring 921 is substantially surrounded by the first electrode wiring 921. The shoreline including 22 extends along substantially the entire top surface of the fourth capacitive sensor 902, but includes some In other embodiments, it may extend along less of the sensor. They further state that instead of including one or more non-parallel wires or finger portions, the first and most or all of the fingers in the second electrode wirings 921 and 922 are approximately We found that when arranged in parallel, they produce the optimal electric field for detecting foot presence. In contrast to the fourth capacitive sensor 902, the third capacitive sensor 900 of FIG. 9A is, for example, vertical The upper part of the first electrode wiring 911 including the finger portion extending in the horizontal direction and the As in the lower portion of the first electrode wiring 911 including the finger portion, The relative thickness of the first and second electrode wirings 921 and 922 is adjusted to increase the sensitivity of the sensor. In some embodiments, the second electrode wiring 922 can be adjusted to match the first electrode wiring Make it three or more times thicker than 921.

[0096] In one embodiment, the first, second, third, and fourth capacitive sensors 700, 800, 90 0, and 902, and The capacitance value to be calculated is determined by a controller or processor, such as processor circuit 320 of FIG. Depending on the measured capacitance, the processor circuit 320 operates a drive mechanism 340, allowing, for example, adjustment of footwear tension around the foot. This adjustment operation may optionally be performed by a processor executing software, or is a separate "wired" component that can be implemented with a combination of wired components and software. In some embodiments, the drive mechanism may be at least partially implemented by a drive component. Operation of mechanism 340 involves (1) one or more Monitoring the signal from the foot presence sensor 310 using a drive / monitoring circuit and (2) which, if any, of the received capacitance signals exceed a certain threshold (e.g., data in storage registers of processor circuit 320 and / or communicated to processor circuit 320 and determining whether the capacitance value meets or exceeds the reference capacitance (stored in the memory circuit). and (3) detecting a foot presence sensor 310 near the foot presence sensor 310 based, for example, on various specified thresholds being exceeded. (4) characterizing the position, size, orientation, or other characteristics of the body or feet in the permitting, enabling, adjusting, or inhibiting operation of the drive mechanism 340 based on the characterization; Included.

[0097] FIG. 10 illustrates an implementation of a method 1000 that includes using foot presence information from footwear sensors. 10 illustrates a flowchart showing an example. In operational step 1010, this embodiment Foot presence information is received from the presence sensor 310. The foot presence information indicates whether a foot is present in the footwear. binary information (for example, see the interrupt signal detailed in the embodiment of FIGS. 12 to 14) The information may include, or may include an indication of the likelihood that the foot is present in the footwear article. , may include an electrical signal from the foot presence sensor 310 to the processor circuit 320. In an embodiment, the foot presence information may include a foot position relative to one or more sensors within the footwear. Contains qualitative information about the location.

[0098] In operation step 1020, the embodiment determines whether the foot is fully seated within the footwear. If the sensor signal indicates that the foot is fully seated, the embodiment proceeds to action step 1030. Continuing on, the drive mechanism 340 can be operated. For example, in operation step 1020 When it is determined that the foot is fully seated, the foot presence sensor 310 Based on the information, the drive mechanism 340 engages to tighten the footwear lace via the spool 131. If the sensor signal indicates that the foot is not fully seated, the embodiment may Continuing with step 1022, the process continues for some specified interval (e.g., 1-2 seconds or more). ) after a certain delay has elapsed, the embodiment , operation returns to step 1010, and the processor circuitry receives information from the foot presence sensor 310. A second sample can be taken to determine whether the foot is fully seated.

[0099] After the drive mechanism 340 is activated in operation step 1030, the processor circuit 320 Operation step 1040 can be configured to monitor foot position information. For example, the processor circuit may receive information from the foot presence sensor 310 about the absolute or relative position of the foot within the footwear. This information can be configured to be monitored periodically or intermittently. In the example, the foot position information monitoring in operation step 1040 and the operation step 101 0 is a step of receiving information from the same or different foot presence sensors 310. For example, different electrodes may be used to perform operational steps 1010 and 1011. Foot presence or foot position information at 040 can be monitored.

[0100] In operation step 1040, the embodiment may include a button 121 associated with the footwear. or more buttons. Based on this information, the drive mechanism 340 will may be ordered to release or loosen the leash.

[0101] In some embodiments, a feedback loop is provided to activate the drive mechanism 340 or tighten the laces. Additionally or alternatively, string tension information can be monitored or used as check information. For example, string tension information can be obtained by measuring the drive current applied to the motor 341. This tension can be characterized at the time of manufacture or monitored by the user. can be preset or adjusted, and the drive current is monitored or measured It can be correlated to the level.

[0102] In operation step 1050, the embodiment determines whether the foot position changes within the footwear. The foot presence sensor 310 and processor circuit 320 detect no change in foot position. If so, the delay can continue with action step 1052. After a specified delay interval at 052, information from the foot presence sensor 310 is re-collected. The operation can then return to step 1040 to again determine if the foot position has changed. The delay in action step 1052 may range from about 1 millisecond to several seconds. and optionally can be specified by the user.

[0103] In some embodiments, the delay in action step 1052 may be, for example, to determine whether footwear usage characteristics are being used. In response to the determination, the processor circuitry 320 may automatically determine. For example, the wearer may be engaged in strenuous exercise (e.g., running or jumping). If the processor circuit 320 determines that This can reduce the delay duration obtained by If the processor circuit determines that the user is not walking or sitting (e.g., walking or sitting), the processor circuit 32 0 can increase the delay duration obtained in action step 1052. By increasing the duration, the processor circuit 320 and / or the foot presence sensor 310 and the corresponding power consumption are postponed and backed up. In some embodiments, the position in operation step 1050 can be If a change is detected, the embodiment returns to action step 1030, e.g., changing the footwear around the foot. The drive mechanism 340 can be actuated to tighten or loosen the The processor circuit 320 may then provide or incorporate a history controller for the drive mechanism 340. For example, in the event that only a small change in foot position is detected, an undesired string spooling Assists in avoiding wrapping.

[0104] FIG. 11 is a flow chart illustrating an embodiment of a method 1100 for using foot presence information from footwear sensors. The embodiment of FIG. 11 illustrates, for example, a processor circuit 320 and a foot presence sensor. Reference can be made to the operation of a state machine such as may be an embodiment using 310.

[0105] The state 1110 is a "Shipped" state, which represents the initial setting or baseline state of the athletic footwear item. ip) state, the footwear item being affected by information from the foot presence sensor 310. In the delivery state, the type of footwear Each active component can be switched off or deactivated to preserve the footwear's battery life. It is put into operation.

[0106] In response to a "Power Up" event 1115, an embodiment may generate a "Disabled or transition to a non-operating state 1120. The feature can remain waiting in the disabled state 1120. Various inputs can be used as trigger events to trigger the User input from 21 can be used to assert a transition from the disabled state 1120. In some embodiments, information from the motion sensor 324 can be used as a trigger signal. The information from the motion sensor 324 is that the user has put the shoes in the ready position. or movement of the footwear in response to the user beginning to insert the foot into the footwear. It can contain information about the movement.

[0107] The state machine remains in power-on mode until the Auto Lace Enable event 1123 is encountered or received. It may remain in the disabled state 1120 following an incoming event 1115. Event 1123 can be manually triggered by a user (e.g., drive mechanism 34 0) or by using a user input or interface device, e.g. The system may be automatically triggered in response to gesture information received from the gesture sensor 324. Following the autolacing enable event 1123, a calibration event 1125 can occur. The calibration event 1125 may include additional calibration steps, such as taking into account environmental effects on the sensor. This may include setting a reference or baseline value for the capacitance of the presence sensor 310. This calibration can be performed based on information sensed from the foot presence sensor 310 itself. or reference information can be programmed or specified. For example, calibration results If the temperature is outside the specified range or if environmental effects are excessive, calibration can be postponed. do.

[0108] Following the Auto Lace Enable event 1123, the state machine goes into "Wait for Foot Presence Signal" The robot can then proceed to hold the "(or foot presence signal)" state 1130. At step 0, the state machine receives the signals from the foot presence sensor 310 and / or the motion sensor 324. An interrupt signal can be waited for, indicating that a foot is present or sufficient time for a foot to be present. Upon receiving an interrupt signal indicating a possible This can indicate "foot found."

[0109] The state machine transitions or initiates various functions when a foot found event 1135 occurs. For example, the footwear may use the drive mechanism 340 in response to a foot detection event 1135 to: The tension feature can be configured to tighten or adjust. The processor circuit 320 activates the drive mechanism 340 to The string tension is adjusted by an initial amount, and the processor circuit 320 also detects other control gestures. unless or until detected, or unless or until user input is received The state machine will delay further fastenings until a The process may transition to a "Wait for move" state 1140. Following the foot detection event 1135, the processor circuit 320 enables the drive mechanism 340. In state 1140 the state machine detects additional sensed Hold or stop for footwear motion information and then perform initial or subsequent tension adjustment. Following the action waiting state 1140, the robot moves to Stomp / Walk / Stand up. nd) event 1145 can be detected, and in response, the processor circuit 320 can further adjust the tension features of the footwear.

[0110] The step / walk / stand event 1145 is the event that occurs when one or more sensors within the athletic footwear This can include various individual sensory inputs, such as from a sensor. For example, a step event , including information from the motion sensor 324, which may be related to positive acceleration (e.g., or in a general direction), and "up" or "upright" directionality In some embodiments, a step event occurs when the user moves one knee from a near vertical position. This includes "high knee" or kick type events where the player raises the ball forward. Acceleration characteristics from the sensor 324 can be analyzed, for example, to determine if acceleration meets or exceeds a particular threshold. For example, a slow knee lift event will not trigger a step event response. whereas a rapid or quick knee lift event triggers a step event response. do.

[0111] Walk events consist of active step patterns and "upward" or "upright" movements. This may include information from a motion sensor 324 that indicates directionality. The motion sensor 324 and / or the processor circuit 320 detects a step event. and a Walk event is configured to distinguish when a step event occurs. The type of sensor that is identified and when an accelerometer (e.g., included in the motion sensor 324 or separate) is used Footwear can be recognized by the way it displays an upright stance.

[0112] A standing event may be, for example, a footwear acceleration or orientation change from a motion sensor. Without further information, motion indicating "up" or "upright" directionality In some embodiments, a stand-up event may include information from a sensor. As will be explained in more detail, the change in capacitance signal from the capacitive foot presence sensor 310 information about the foot presence sensor 310. The capacitance signal is generated when the user's foot exerts downward pressure on the footwear. The sensor may include a signal change that can indicate whether the user is standing or not.

[0113] The specific implementation of step / walk / stand event 1145 should not be considered limiting. and further restricts the behavior of the footwear, such as after a foot is detected in Foot Found Event 1135. Various other gestures, inputs over time, or user actions can be used to control or affect behavior. Input control can be performed.

[0114] Following step / walk / stand event 1145, the state machine goes into "Wait for u The "wait to unlace" state 1150 may include a "wait to unlace" state 1150. User input and / or gesture information for tensioning, releasing or untying commands (e.g. For example, using a motion sensor 324 In this unraveling wait state 1150, a state manager such as the processor circuit 320 lacing power source or drive mechanism 340 is unlaced and returns to foot presence signal state 1130 In the first example, we can show that the unraveling event 1 155 can occur, and the state machine can transition to the unlacing footwear state; and The state machine can return to the foot present signal state 1130. A lace disable event 1153 may occur, causing the footwear to transition to the disabled state 1120. can.

[0115] FIG. 12 generally illustrates a graph 1200 of first time-varying information from a capacitive foot presence sensor. The example in Figure 12 shows the capacitance versus time graph and the and a first time-varying capacitance signal 1201. In some embodiments, the first time-varying capacitance signal The capacitance signal 1201 is obtained using the foot presence sensor 310 described herein. The first time-varying capacitance signal 1201 can be obtained by detecting the foot presence sensor as described above. The capacitance measured between the electrodes of the sensor 310 or the body in the electric field In some embodiments, the first time-varying capacitance signal may correspond to an influence indication. Reference numeral 1201 represents the overall or relative capacitance signal value, and in other embodiments, The signal represents the difference between the signal value and the reference capacitance signal value.

[0116] In some embodiments, the first capacitance signal 1201 is a specific first threshold capacitance. The foot presence sensor 310 may be configured to perform the comparison. Alternatively, the processor circuit 320 may use capacitance information from the foot presence sensor 310. The embodiment of FIG. 12 can be configured to receive the information and perform the comparison. Therefore, the first threshold capacitance value 1211 is a constant non-zero value. The capacitance signal 1201 is then applied to a first threshold capacitance value 1211, such as at time T1. When met or exceeded, the foot presence sensor 310 and / or the processor circuit 320 generates a first interrupt. The first interrupt signal INT1 can be provided by the foot presence sensor 310. The capacitance value indicated by meets or exceeds the first threshold capacitance value 1211. It can stay as high as possible.

[0117] In some embodiments, the first interrupt signal INT1 may be generated by, for example, It can be used in operation step 1010 or 1020. In this case, receiving foot presence information from the foot presence sensor 310 causes the processor circuit 320 to In some embodiments, the first interrupt signal INT1 may be received. In this case, the action step 1020 is performed when the foot is fully seated in the footwear or is likely to be fully seated in the footwear. This may include using interrupt signal information to determine whether a process is running. The sensor circuit 320 processes capacitance values ​​that exceed the first threshold capacitance value 1211. A first interrupt signal INT1 for determining how long the processor circuit 320 will supply The duration of the event can be monitored if this duration exceeds a specified reference duration. If so, the processor circuit 320 determines whether the foot is fully seated within the footwear or is likely to be fully seated within the footwear. It can be determined whether or not

[0118] In some embodiments, the first interrupt signal INT1 may be generated by, for example, It can be used in state 1130 or event 1135. In state 1130, The state machine receives signals such as INT1 from the processor circuit 320 or from the foot presence sensor 310. At event 1135, the state machine The first interrupt signal INT1 can be received and in response one or more The above state can be initiated.

[0119] In some embodiments, the first threshold capacitance value 1211 is adjustable. is based on changes measured or detected when, for example, due to environmental changes. The baseline or reference for the response can be varied. The threshold capacitance value 1211 can be specified by the user. User Specification of Threshold can affect the sensitivity of the footwear. In some embodiments, the first threshold capacitance The foot presence value 1211 is a function of the sensed environment or material at or around the foot presence sensor 310. It can automatically adjust according to changes in materials.

[0120] FIG. 13 generally illustrates a graph 1300 of second time-varying information from a capacitive foot presence sensor. The example of FIG. 13 shows the second capacitance signal near the first threshold capacitance value 1211. How variations in No. 1202 are handled or used to determine the presence or orientation of the foot within the footwear More information about the device can be determined.

[0121] In some embodiments, the second capacitance signal 1202 is received from the foot presence sensor 310. and the second capacitance signal 1202 is compared to a first threshold capacitance value 1211. Other thresholds may similarly vary depending on, among other things, the user, the footwear type, or the environment or environmental characteristics. In the example of FIG. 13, the second capacitance signal 1202 may cross the first threshold capacitance value 1211 at times T2, T3, and T4. In some embodiments, multiple threshold crossings can be used by the foot presence sensor 310, for example, By showing the path of the foot as it enters the footwear, the presence of the foot can be reliably identified. For example, a time domain signal bounded by first and second threshold crossings at times T2 and T3 can be generated. The time interval is determined by the time when the toes or phalanges of the foot are at or near the electrodes of the foot presence sensor 310. The sensed capacitance may be greater than or equal to the first threshold capacitance. The interval between time T3 and time T4, which is less than the passivity value 1211, The time that the metatarsal joint or bone moves over or near the electrodes of the foot presence sensor 310 The metatarsal joints or bones can accommodate the foot's position as the phalanges move within the footwear. The distance from the foot presence sensor 310 is greater than the distance of the phalanges to the sensor 310. and therefore the resulting measured capacitance between times T3 and T4 At time T4, the heel or talus of the foot slides into place. The arch of the foot can rest on the electrodes of the foot presence sensor 310, The capacitance sensed by the first threshold capacitance value 1211 is again increased. Therefore, the foot presence sensor 310 or the processor circuit 320 may A second interrupt signal INT2 is generated between times T2 and T3, and a third interrupt signal INT4 is generated after time T4. The input signal INT3 can be configured to generate an input signal INT4.

[0122] In some embodiments, the processor circuit 320 may be configured to generate a For example, the processor circuit 320 may be configured to reliably identify the presence of One or more interrupts for or between received interrupt signals. For example, the processor circuitry may use information about a particular duration. It can be configured to look for pairs of interrupt signals separated by time. For example, the duration between times T3 and T4 can be used to calculate the error. The indication of bar presence can be done with some adjustable or specified margins. In an embodiment, the processor circuit 320 receives an interrupt signal as data and also receives, for example, This data is used together with other user input signals as part of gesture-based user input. In some embodiments, the presence or absence of an interrupt signal can be monitored. All of this information can be used to validate or overrule one or more other signals. For example, when an interrupt signal is received or has recently been received, the accelerometer signal is transmitted to the processor. An interrupt that can be enabled and processed by circuit 320 or corresponds to a foot presence sensor When no signal is present, the accelerometer signal may be rejected by the processor circuit 320. Cut.

[0123] In the embodiment of FIGS. 12 and 13, the measured capacitance value from the foot presence sensor 310 is Examples are given that are reliably constant or reproducible, even in the presence of changes in environmental conditions. ,In many footwear use cases, the ambient capacitance ,change in embedded electronics is , This can occur constantly or unpredictably due to changes in temperature, humidity, or other environmental factors. A large change in capacitance may affect the operation of the foot presence sensor 310, e.g., Changing the base line or reference capacitance characteristics may have adverse effects. There is a problem.

[0124] FIG. 14 generally illustrates a graph of the third time-varying information from the capacitive foot presence sensor. The embodiment of FIG. 14 may be used to measure the change in footwear components over time, for example, various environmental conditions, usage conditions, etc. How the reference capacitance changes due to changes in conditions or wear and tear or deterioration This example shows how the third capacitance plotted in graph 1400 can be explained. The capacitance 1203 is compared with the second threshold capacitance 1212 and the time-varying reference capacitance 1213. 14, the time-varying reference capacitance 1213 is In another embodiment, the reference capacitance increases over time. or footwear use over an event (e.g., over a day, over a game) During play, the user's seating or preferences, etc., may change. In this case, the reference capacitance is determined by various components of the footwear itself, such as the insole. , outsoles, insoles, orthotic inserts, or other footwear components life cycle can vary over a period of time.

[0125] In some embodiments, a third capacitance signal 1203 is received from a foot presence sensor 310. and using the foot presence sensor 310 and the processor circuit or the processor circuit 320. This third capacitance signal 1203 is compared with a second threshold capacitance 1212 using In embodiments that do not consider or use the time-varying reference capacitance 1213, Threshold crossings for capacitance signal 1203 are observed at times T5, T6, and T8. However, the second threshold capacitance 1212 is set to the This second threshold capacitor can be adjusted in real time with the sensed information. The adjustment to the capacitance 1212 is based on the time-varying reference capacitance 1213. can be done.

[0126] In some embodiments, the second threshold capacitance 1212 is a continuous and time-varying reference. The capacitance 1213 is adjusted by an amount corresponding to the change. The threshold capacitance 1212 is the threshold change of a particular time-varying reference capacitance 1213. This step-adjustment technique is performed over the intervals shown. This is illustrated in FIG. 14 by the stepwise increase of the second threshold capacitance 1212. For example, The second threshold capacitance 1212 is a capacitance at the time-varying reference capacitance 1213. Depending on the specific threshold increase ΔC of the capacitance, the time T7 and T 10 The actual value of Fig. 14 In the example, the third capacitance signal 1203 is reference- The second threshold capacitance 1212 is then crossed to be compensated. Depending on whether or not the interrupt is compensated, different interrupt signals or interrupt signal timings may be obtained. For example, the fourth interrupt signal INT4 can occur between times T5 and T6. If the second threshold capacitance 1212 is used without reference compensation, the fifth interrupt However, the reference compensated second threshold signal INT5 is generated at time T8. If the value capacitance 1212 is used, the fifth interrupt signal INT5 is generated by the third capacitance as the time when the capacitance signal 1203 crosses the compensated second threshold capacitance 1212. This can be obtained at the time T9 shown.

[0127] Using logic to monitor and update the threshold capacitance value. Such logic circuitry can be implemented in the foot presence sensor 310 or the processor circuitry 320. Updated threshold levels are obtained automatically and on-chip. In some embodiments, the threshold update can be performed by storing the No input or confirmation is required from the user.

[0128] FIG. 15 generally illustrates a graph of fourth time-varying information from a capacitive foot presence sensor. The embodiment of FIG. 15 may be used to measure the change in footwear components over time, for example, various environmental conditions, usage conditions, etc. How the reference capacitance changes due to changes in conditions or wear and tear or deterioration This example shows how the fourth capacitance plotted in graph 1500 can be explained. The fourth capacitance 1214 is shown with the adaptive threshold capacitance 1214. The signal 1204 can be obtained by the foot presence sensor 310. Adaptive Threshold Capacitance 1214 compensates for environmental or use case related changes measured by the foot presence sensor 310. It can be used to help

[0129] In some embodiments, the foot presence sensor 310 or the processor circuit 320 may detect a particular threshold amplitude. The fourth capacitance signal 1204 is monitored for signal amplitude changes, such as changes greater than the That is, the fourth capacitance signal 1204 is configured to monitor a specific threshold capacitance. When the capacitance amplitude ΔC is met or exceeded, the foot presence sensor 310 Alternatively, the processor circuit 320 may provide an interrupt signal.

[0130] In some embodiments, the sensed or measured capacitance of the fourth capacitance signal 1204 The capacitance value is compared to a reference capacitance or baseline, and the reference or baseline is The data can be updated at specific or time-varying intervals. In the example, the reference update occurs at time T 11 , T 12 , T 13 etc. Other intervals or updates in response to other trigger events may also be added or updated. can alternatively be used.

[0131] In the embodiment of FIG. 15, the initial reference capacitance may be zero (0). , or x-axis. After the fourth capacitance signal 1204 rises by more than the width ΔC, the sixth interrupt signal IN T6 is time T 11 In the embodiment of FIG. 15, the interrupt is a periodic interrupt. Although the interrupt can be global, in other embodiments the interrupt is generated based on a capacitance threshold change. This can occur temporarily by identifying the transformation.

[0132] For example, at time T 11 Following the identified threshold change, such as in the baseline or baseline The capacitance can be updated to the first capacitance reference C1. At time T 11 Thereafter, the foot presence sensor 310 or the processor circuit 320 detects at least a Δ For subsequent changes in C, i.e., find the capacitance value of C1+ΔC or C1-ΔC. The fourth capacitance signal 1204 may be configured to be monitored to determine can.

[0133] In an embodiment having the step of identifying a capacitance increase at a first time, an interrupt signal The signal state can be changed at a later time in response to identifying a capacitance decrease. However, if a further capacitance increase is identified at a later time, the reference capacitance updated capacitance and subsequent comparison to the updated reference capacitance This situation is illustrated in Figure 15. For example, at time T 12 in The capacitance increase in the fourth capacitance signal 1204 is detected and the reference is the second capacitance. The first and subsequent second capacitance references can be updated to C2. The capacitance change represents an increase, so the state of the sixth interrupt signal INT6 remains unchanged. At time T 13 In this case, a capacitance decrease is detected in the fourth capacitance signal 1204. The reference can be updated to the third capacitance reference C3. T 13 The capacitance change in the capacitance amplitude ΔC is greater than a certain threshold capacitance amplitude ΔC. Therefore, the state of the sixth interrupt signal INT6 changes (for example, from the interrupt asserted state to from asserted to de-asserted.

[0134] In some embodiments, time T 11 The first detected change and the corresponding interrupt signal Number INT6 represents a foot that is sensed by foot presence sensor 310 and determined to be present in the footwear. A subsequent increase in the baseline capacitance may be due to, for example, a change in capacitance at or near the sensor. The baseline capacitance measured by the foot presence sensor 310, such as that due to environmental changes It represents the change in the time T 13 The changes detected in the footwear indicate that the footwear is about to come off. This may represent a foot that is no longer sensed in the vicinity of the foot presence sensor 310. The change in resistivity (e.g., time T 16) refers to the foot being reinserted into the footwear can be done.

[0135] FIG. 16 illustrates time-varying information and signal morphology from a capacitive foot presence sensor in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. Graph 1600 of the limits is shown. This example illustrates the first The graph 1600 further includes the fifth and sixth capacitance signals 1205 and 1206. The morphological limits 1601 are determined by the capacitance from the foot presence sensor 310. The comparison can be made with sampled segments of the response signal. , using the foot presence sensor 310 or the processor circuit 320, The system can be implemented to detect whether the part meets the shape limits 1601. In an embodiment, the configuration limit 1601 defines a lower limit beyond which the The capacitance signal segment does not represent the presence of a foot near the foot presence sensor 310. This lower bound indicates that the probability of the

[0136] The sampled portion of the fifth capacitance signal 1205 meets the geometry limits 1601 . In the embodiment of FIG. 16, the configuration limit 1601 is a change or drop in capacitance signal amplitude. The fifth capacitance signal 1205 defines a morphology including morphology limits 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, Following identification of a match to all or part of 601, foot presence or detection is successful. An interrupt signal can be provided to indicate that a

[0137] The illustrated sampled portion of the sixth capacitance signal 1206 is at the topology limit 1601. For example, the sudden decrease and long dwell time of the sixth capacitance signal 1206 , is outside the boundaries defined by the configuration limits 1601, and therefore the interrupt signal is not preserved. may be held down, for example, to indicate that no foot is detected by the foot presence sensor 310. .

[0138] The geometric limits 1601 can be fixed or variable. For example, the geometric limits can be set to a reference calibration. Based on information about perseverance, environment, footwear use cases, sensitivity preferences, or other information For example, the morphological limits 1601 may vary based on the type of footwear used. That is, basketball shoes are at least partially different from running shoes. The shoe may have different geometric limits 1601, i.e., different shoe geometries or This may be due to differences in materials or the amount of time a user expects to put on or take off a particular article of footwear. In some embodiments, the configuration limits 1601 may be, for example, when the user is wearing footwear or not. Can be user-programmed to accommodate specific doffing preferences or procedures .

[0139] As mentioned above, the foot presence sensor 310 may have an associated fixed or variable baseline. The electrode surface may have a capacitance value of 0.01 or a reference capacitance value. Area, or electrode placement relative to other footwear components, or footwear orientation, or sensor Or the footwear itself using the sensor may be a function of the environment in which it is used. The sensor has some associated capacitance value even when the foot is not present in the footwear. and the capacitance value can be determined by the dielectric effect in one or more materials, or The sensor may be a function of environmental factors at or near the sensor. Optionally, the baseline or reference characteristics change, such as when the insole changes. The foot presence sensor 310 can sometimes be configured to be calibrated. The processor circuit 320 automatically detects changes in the baseline or reference capacitance. or can be configured to generate a baseline or The reference capacitance can be configured to be updated.

[0140] FIG. 17 illustrates a capacitor located within the midsole of an article of footwear or underneath the dielectric stack. 17 shows a schematic diagram of an embodiment 1700 of a sensor-based foot presence sensor. 0 has a housing structure 150, which may include, for example, a capacitive foot present A lacing power source or drive that operates based at least in part on information from sensor 1701 The capacitive foot presence sensor 1701 may include or use a mechanism 340. Capacitance or capacitance indication based on the presence or absence of a body 550 nearby The device may be configured to provide a signal.

[0141] One or more materials may be placed between the body 550 and the capacitive foot presence sensor 1701. The one or more materials can affect the sensor sensitivity or This can affect the signal-to-noise ratio in the signal from the sensor. The one or more materials form a dielectric stack. The one or more materials may include: , particularly the sock 1751, the arch of the body 550 at or near the sensor The gap due to the height, the insole 1750, the fastening device 17 such as Velcro (registered trademark) 30, or dielectric filler 1720. In some embodiments, capacitive foot presence sensors When the housing structure 150 is provided with the 1701, the top wall of the housing structure 150 itself In some embodiments, the orthogonal insert is a part of the dielectric stack. It can be part of the

[0142] The inventors have found that providing a high dielectric constant or high k value to the dielectric stack reduces the capacitive footprint. We realized that the input sensitivity of the sensor 1701 can be improved. The dielectric stack was tested and evaluated for its performance and compatibility in footwear. Comfortable for underfoot use and tolerant to having voids or other low-k materials in place The hardness or durability of the material provides a sufficient dielectric effect to increase the sensitivity of the quantitative foot presence sensor 1701. In some embodiments, there is one or more specific components that have thermometric properties. Suitable materials have good weather resistance or durability, low and high temperature adaptability, and stress-crack resistance. Some have resistance.

[0143] In one embodiment, the dielectric filler material 1720 includes a neoprene material. The plastic member is a closed cell foam material having a hardness value of about 30 Shore A. In an example, the dielectric filler 1720 may be a rubber, plastic, or other polymer base. For example, the dielectric filler material 1720 may be ethylene vinyl acetate ( The EVA material may have about 10 to 40% by weight of vinyl acetate. The remainder can be ethylene. In some embodiments, the dielectric filler 1720 and Examples include materials with enhanced conductivity, such as those containing doped plastics or rubbers. In one embodiment, the dielectric filler 1720 may be a carbon-based material. The material may include a bonded EVA material, for example, a material having the same or similar ethylene vinyl acetate ratio. The doped EVA has a higher k value than the undoped EVA.

[0144] FIG. 18 shows the dielectric versus capacitance indicative signal from the capacitive foot presence sensor 1701. An example is shown generally with a graph 1800 showing the effect of the filler material 1720. In 800, the x-axis indicates the number of digital samples and corresponds to the elapsed time, and the y-axis indicates the number of digital samples and corresponds to the elapsed time. The axis shows the relative capacitance measurement detected by the capacitive foot presence sensor 1701 . Graph 1800 is a capacitance table corresponding to a first type of material for dielectric filler 1720. The first signal 1801 and the capacitance corresponding to the second type material of the dielectric filler 1720 are shown. 18. The display includes a time-aligned overlay with the second signal 1802.

[0145] In some embodiments, the first signal 1801 is a first dielectric provided as the dielectric filler 1720. The first dielectric member corresponds to a footwear using a dielectric material having a first dielectric k value. The graph 1800 shows the first dielectric member and the foot presence sensor 1. 7 shows a plurality of instances in which the body 550 is inserted into or removed from an article of footwear including 701. For example, the first signal The first portion 1820 of 1801 is a reference or baseline measured by the capacitive foot presence sensor 1701. In the example of FIG. 18, the reference or baseline is a value of zero. This reference or baseline corresponds to no foot in the footwear. That is, the first portion 1802 of the first signal 1801 indicates that the foot is absent from the footwear. At a time corresponding to the sample 600, the body 550 is inserted into the footwear and The quantitative foot presence sensor 1701 and the first dielectric member may be located on or near the insert. Following the insertion, the amplitude of the first signal 1801 changes, for example, by a first amount 1811, The body 550 indicates the presence of a foot (or other body). Over a duration corresponding to 1821, for example, approximately samples 600 to 1400 At the time corresponding to sample 1400, body 550 When the body 550 leaves the footwear, the first signal 1801 is can return to baseline values.

[0146] In the embodiment of FIG. 18, the second signal 1802 is provided as a dielectric filler 1720. The second dielectric member may be made of various materials other than the first dielectric member. In some embodiments, the second dielectric member may include the first dielectric member described above. The member includes a neoprene foam having a second dielectric k value that exceeds the first dielectric k value. In the above, the second dielectric member has a third dielectric k value that is greater than the first dielectric k value of the first dielectric member. EVA components (e.g., doped with carbon or other materials that enhance the dielectric properties or k value of the component) (including those who have done so).

[0147] Graph 1800 shows the results of measurements taken for an article of footwear having a second dielectric member and a foot presence sensor 1701. The first portion 1820 of the second signal 1802 is a capacitive coupling. The presence sensor 1701 indicates the reference or baseline capacitance measured, and the experimental results of FIG. In an embodiment, the first portion 1820 of the second signal 1802 indicates the absence of the foot from the footwear. At the time corresponding to the sample 600, the body 550 is inserted into the footwear. The capacitive foot presence sensor 1701 and the second dielectric member may be located on or near the Following the insertion, the amplitude of the second signal 1802 may change, for example, by a second amount 1812, In some embodiments, the second quantity 1812 is The difference in amplitude change is greater than the first amount 1811. The difference in the material type used for the dielectric filler 1720 That is, first and second signals 1801 and 1802 representing capacitance The amplitude of may be different when using different dielectric stacks. When including the k-value dielectric filler 1720, the amplitude difference or difference from the baseline is 17. The dielectric filler 1720 is larger than the dielectric filler 1720.

[0148] In some embodiments, the orthotic insert is part of a dielectric stack within the footwear. conducted various tests to evaluate the effect of various orthotic inserts on capacitive foot sensing technology. Some results from the study are summarized in Figure 23 and are described in more detail below. Full and partial length orthotic insoles were tested. The addition of a length correction increases the overall dielectric effect of the stack and also reduces the electric field sensitivity to the presence of the legs. The sensed signal amplitude (e.g., corresponding to a sensed change in capacitance) However, the RMS amplitude of the noise floor was significantly reduced with the presence of the brace. The results were similar under both loaded and unloaded conditions.

[0149] Based on the results of orthotic testing, capacitive sensing is effective for detecting foot presence with regular or full-length orthotics. The use of knowledge is feasible for signal-to-noise ratio resolution. Using a length orthotic, the problem of foot presence is solved using an SNR above the desired minimum of approximately 6 dB. It can be used under both light and heavy load conditions. In an embodiment, the foot presence sensor 310 is a capacitance sensor that compensates for the added dielectric effect of the orthotic. A range of offsets may be included or used.

[0150] The variation in the gap between the full length orthotic and the electrodes of the foot presence sensor 310 varies with the applied load. This corresponds to a measurable variation as a function of . For example, in the embodiment of FIG. As demonstrated, when a high-k dielectric material is provided at or near the capacitive foot presence sensor, This can improve the SNR over embodiments that include or use low dielectric materials.

[0151] It has been found that the various foot zones behave similarly under low load conditions, e.g. However, for example, when the user stands up, Under high load conditions, such as when wearing a brace, the arch area of ​​the orthotic is compressed and the voids become larger. Therefore, under the sensing conditions, the orthotic device is present and measured. The electric field generated is similar in magnitude to the electric field measured using production or OEM insoles. Orthotics or O-rings that create a gap between the foot presence sensor 310 and the body to be sensed may be used. In the EM-produced insole examples, various materials are used to compensate or fill the voids. For example, a gap filler such as neoprene or doped EVA can be added. Foam can be provided on the underside of the full length brace.

[0152] In some embodiments, the inclusion of the orthotic within the insole may be greater than the total dielectric thickness of the dielectric stack. This increases the capacitance and reduces the electric field sensitivity of the capacitive sensor to the presence of a foot. The resulting signal amplitude from the volume sensor is generally reduced when using orthogonal inserts. It was observed that the RMS amplitude of the noise characteristics was almost the same with and without the brace. Furthermore, the dielectric member occupying the volume between the sensing electrode of the capacitive sensor and the lower surface of the orthodontic appliance is This can have a significant effect on the sensitivity of the capacitive sensor. For example, a k value of 1.28 Polyurethane foam is measured using neoprene foam, which has a k value of approximately 5.6. With equal noise amplitudes, this can have a signal amplitude that is approximately 70% lower than expected. This is equivalent to an SNR difference of approximately 4.6 dB. Therefore, the presence of the foot can be detected with the carbon fiber orthosis. Using capacitive sensing to measure the signal is feasible in terms of signal to noise. The SNR exceeds the minimum of 6 dB desired to solve the foot presence problem.

[0153] FIG. 19 shows the capacitance from a foot presence sensor based on capacitance in the footwear. 19 generally illustrates an example of a graph 1900 showing a portion of a third signal 1803 indicative of In Rough 1900, the x-axis indicates the number of digital samples and corresponds to the elapsed time, The y-axis represents the relative capacitance measurement detected by the capacitive foot presence sensor 1701. The information from the third signal 1803 indicates that the user is exerting a downward force on the footwear. can be used to determine, for example, whether the user is seated, among other things. or determine whether the user is standing, or determine the number of steps taken, or It can be used to determine gait characteristics. In the mutual capacitance sensing mode, the sensor Increased capacitance as detected by the ion beam corresponds to a decrease in signal as shown. In this embodiment, a self-capacitance sensing mode can be used. In resistance sensing mode, the increased capacitance as detected by the sensor A change in pressure (e.g., corresponding to compression of a foam insert over the sensor) corresponds to an increase in signal. .

[0154] In the example of FIG. 19, at an initial time corresponding to sample "0" on the x-axis, , the third signal 1803 is a reference or baseline value of approximately 0 on the relative capacitance scale. or at about sample 175 on the x-axis, the third signal 1803 may have, for example , including a footwear donning event corresponding to the body 550 being inserted into the footwear. The third signal 1803 indicates a footwear wear event at or about sample 10000. The third signal 1803 includes a transient, after which the third signal 1803 returns to the baseline value.

[0155] The embodiment of FIG. 19 further includes a specific threshold 1920. This threshold 1920 is 50 can correspond to a relative capacitance value that indicates that the capacitance is present in the footwear. For example, when the foot or body 550 is in the footwear, a relative The capacitance exceeds the threshold 1920 and the foot or body 550 is absent from the footwear. When the relative capacitance falls below the threshold 1920, for example, As further described below, thresholds may be used to account for environmental changes or footwear material changes. Various methods or techniques can be used to dynamically adjust 1920.

[0156] Footwear worn corresponding to the interval between sample 175 and sample 10250 Between the use event 1901 and the footwear removal event 1910, the wearer of the footwear item The user can transition between a seated and standing position at the same time. 3 signal 1803, which may correspond to a variation in the third signal 18 O3 due to compression and relaxation of the footwear material that forms the dielectric stack on the capacitive sensor. That is, when a user stands up and applies a downward force to the dielectric stack, One or more materials in the box are compressed and the user's foot is brought closer to the capacitive sensor. This can be used to change the relative capacitance measured using the sensor. When the user sits down, the downward force on the dielectric stack is reduced, and the dielectric stack material relaxes or extends, allowing the user's foot to move away from the capacitive sensor.

[0157] The wear event 1901 includes a disturbed portion of the third signal 1803, i.e., a smooth or Instead of a gentle transition, the third signal 1803 indicates that the user has placed their foot in position within the footwear. In some embodiments, the wear event 1901 is This includes lacing, such as automatic or manual lacing, which allows the user to Applying various forces to the footwear material, including applying pressure to the footwear material, and adjusting the tension of the footwear and thus the position of the user's foot relative to the capacitance sensor. In the embodiment of FIG. 19, reference numeral 1901 indicates After the wear event, the first duration 1931, corresponding to samples 200-275, During this first duration 1931, the user can sit. No. 1803 may have an average value of about 200 per capacitance unit.

[0158] Following the first duration 1931, the user may stand up, which causes the dielectric stack This compresses the material of the stack and also brings the user's feet closer to the capacitive sensors on the underside of the stack. When the user stands up completely, compressing the dielectric stack, a third signal is generated. 1803 is an average of approximately 120 capacitance units over the second duration 1932 value, i.e., when a user transitions from sitting to standing, or The user exerts a minimum force on the dielectric stack, which then exerts a greater or maximum force on the dielectric stack. transition to adding to the stack, thus changing the dielectric properties of the dielectric stack itself. When the third signal 1803 is changed, the magnitude of the third signal 1803 changes by the first magnitude change amount 1951. In some embodiments, the first magnitude change 1951 is a function of the force applied to the dielectric stack. That is, the first magnitude change amount 1951 can correspond to, among other things, Used to determine the user's weight or whether the user is running or walking This means that, for example, the user feels less distracted when running compared to walking. This is because it is expected that a larger force will be applied to the electrical stack.

[0159] In the example of FIG. 19, when the user returns to a seated position around sample 375 , the third signal 1803 returns to a value of approximately 220 for capacitance units. The relative capacitance change occurs for a third duration 1933 before the change in the relative capacitance of the

[0160] The dashed portion of the third signal 1803 (continuing from around sample 500 in the example of FIG. 19) ) indicates the change in time and x-axis scale. In some embodiments, samples 0 to 500 corresponds to the time when the footwear incorporating the capacitive sensor is new, or when a new dielectric stack The samples from around sample 9800 onwards correspond to the time that the footwear is worn. Time to get old or partially worn out, or part of the dielectric stack is compressed and the time when it is no longer possible to fully recoil or extend it even in a relaxed or unused state. It can correspond to.

[0161] In the example of FIG. 19, the third signal 1803 represents the number of times between the sitting and standing positions. In some embodiments, the fourth duration 1934 and the sixth duration 1935 are shown. 1936 corresponds to a seated position where minimal force or pressure is applied to the dielectric stack within the footwear. The fifth duration 1935 corresponds to the standing position with increased force applied to the dielectric stack. In one embodiment, the fourth and sixth durations 1934 and 1936 are approximately 240 This corresponds to the relative capacitance unit average value of 4 and 6. Durations 1934 and 1936 were approximately 220 units, and the first and third durations 1931 and 1933. In some embodiments, the difference between these average values ​​is one or more of the time-varying dielectric stacks or other footwear materials for This may contribute to wear and tear on the part. In some embodiments, the fifth duration 1935 is , which corresponds to a relative capacitance unit average value of about 150, which corresponds to a third duration of 1933 Furthermore, when a force is applied to the dielectric stack or The difference between the non-stressed sitting position and the standing position is as follows for new and second-hand footwear: The first magnitude change 1951 may vary depending on the posture of the new The footwear exhibited a change in relative capacitance of approximately 200 units, and a second magnitude change of 1 952 is a relative criterion for old or used footwear between standing and sitting positions. In the example of FIG. 19, the fourth to sixth sustained The time periods 1934-1936 are further compared to the first to third durations 1931-1933. The noise signal also reflects wear and tear on the footwear or sensor components. may be involved in losses.

[0162] FIG. 19 illustrates, among other things, the use of a third signal 1 to indicate a footwear life cycle state or footwear usage characteristics. 803. For example, the information may be from one or more footwear components. Components are worn or worn out and no longer provide optimal or sufficient cushioning or foot support. By notifying or warning the user that the This can be used to help prevent injury. For example, the third signal 1803 Information from the insole components, orthotic inserts or other components of footwear may be can be used to determine the life cycle state of footwear components such as do.

[0163] In some embodiments, information from a capacitive foot presence sensor provides step frequency information. This information can be used to derive or determine the user stride. When determinable, it can be used as a step counter or pedometer Returning to FIG. 19, the variations in the third signal 1803 correspond to different gait events. For example, the second duration 1932 may correspond to a time when the first foot of the user is User gait, such as when on the ground and the user's weight exerts a force on the user's footwear and the footwear may provide a third signal 1803. The second duration 1932 includes a capacitance-based foot presence sensor. The user can then shift their weight from their first foot to their second foot. As a result, the pressure or force that the user exerts on the footwear can be reduced, with a corresponding A change in the third signal 1803 can be observed. For example, the magnitude of the third signal 1803 can be, for example, , the first magnitude change amount can be increased by 1951. When returning to the foot, the magnitude of the third signal 1803 is, for example, the first magnitude change amount 1951. In some embodiments, the size change can be reduced by the force applied by the user to the footwear. This force can depend on or be related to how fast the user is walking or For example, a larger change in running pace can be achieved by It can be adjusted to suit your walking pace, with smaller variations The user's pace can be determined by the amount of magnitude change and the frequency or speed of the magnitude change events. Either or both of these can be used to make the determination.

[0164] In some embodiments, the duration, interval or duration of a particular portion of the third signal 1803 may be The sample counts can be used to determine step intervals or step counts. For example, the first duration 1931 may have a sample count of approximately 75 samples. and the second duration 1932 may have a sample count of approximately 50 samples. When the first foot leaves the ground, the first duration 1931 is the user walking or walking motion. The second duration 1932 corresponds to the first part of the cycle, when the first foot hits the ground. To accommodate a subsequent second portion of the user's walking or gait cycle, the user It can have a gait interval of 5 samples. For example, sample count information Based on the sample rate, a processor circuit 320 is used to process the gait interval. The value can be correlated to walking or running pace.

[0165] In some embodiments, the duration between signal magnitude changes in the third signal 1803, Use global or sample counts to determine step intervals or step counts For example, a magnitude change greater than a certain threshold magnitude change amount can be detected. The processor circuit 320 can identify the The interval length between the magnitude changes can be calculated or identified. For example, The start of time 1932 is observed by the processor circuit 320 in the third signal 1803. Around 325 samples correspond to magnitude changes greater than a specified threshold magnitude change. The end of the second duration 1932 can be identified by the processor circuit 320. Therefore, the subsequent magnitude change observed in the third signal 1803 and greater than the specified threshold magnitude change amount is It can be identified as around sample 375, which corresponds to a change in the processing time. The sampling circuit 320 calculates the difference between the sample counts and determines whether the second duration 1932 is approximately 50 samples. The processor circuit 320 can also determine that the first sample is a continuation of the first sample. 3. The duration or sample length for any one or more segments of the signal 1803 The processor circuit 320 then determines the step interval. and can use step intervals to measure the distance or In some embodiments, the speed of the user can be determined by the stride length. All of this information can be used, along with step interval information, to determine distance traveled. .

[0166] In some embodiments, the user's stride length is not specified or known. The user's stride length is measured using an accelerometer or position sensor, optionally in conjunction with foot presence sensor information. It is determined using information from one or more other sensors, such as a GPS sensor. For example, information from a location sensor can be used to determine whether a user is moving for a particular duration. The total distance traveled can be displayed by the processor circuit 320 or other processor associated with the footwear. The sensor receives the third signal 1803 and calculates the number of signal magnitude change events as a function of the number of steps and distance traveled. The correlation can be used to determine the user's average gait or stride length. For example, if a user moves 100 meters in 30 seconds and the capacitance from the foot presence sensor If the displayed signal shows 100 signal magnitude change events within the same 30-second interval, The processor circuit 320 or other processor may be configured to detect when the user stride is approximately 100 meters / 1 Determining that 00 size change events = 1 meter per size change event can be done.

[0167] In some embodiments, information from the third signal 1803 is used to determine user gait characteristics or The processor circuit 320 may, for example, identify signal changes. The capacitance indicator signal can be configured to be monitored over time to For example, the processor circuit 320 may detect a first (or other) The duration or first step event can be monitored. The user will walk in a similar manner each time they wear the footwear, using a similar gait. It is expected that the processor circuit 320 will establish a If the system detects deviations from the baseline or average signal characteristics, the user will be alerted. Similarly, the processor circuit 320 may also be configured to reduce user fatigue, which may lead to injury. or may be configured to detect usage characteristics or deviations that may be related to mental states. For example, deviations from baseline or reference signal characteristics may indicate, for example, that changes in foot position correspond to Dielectric properties at or above a capacitance-based foot presence sensor - Patents.com This can indicate rolling or sliding of the foot or ankle within the footwear, such as that caused by automatic In embodiments with a lacing power source, information about foot position changes can be used to footwear can automatically tighten around the foot to help prevent injury to the user. .

[0168] FIG. 20 shows a schematic example of foot presence signal information over multiple sit-to-stand cycles. This example includes a graph 2000 showing the relationship between time (x-axis) and "counts" (y-axis). The counts correspond to the output of a capacitive foot presence sensor. For example, the counts correspond to the output of a capacitive sensor. receives analog output from an analog-to-digital converter that corresponds to a digital signal from It is possible.

[0169] In the embodiment of FIG. 20, zero count is the reference condition, e.g., the record with the sensor. A count greater than zero corresponds to the absence of a capacitive foot. The sensor may be indicative of something other than a foot-absent condition, e.g., a sensor within or near the sensor and thus the footwear. The magnitude of the count indicates that the sensor detects a foot or other body or object present. corresponds to the position of the sensor target relative to the sensor electrodes. The magnitude is determined by the force exerted by the foot against the sole of the footwear, as described above in the embodiment of FIG. For example, the foot is in the footwear and the wearer is seated, and therefore When no force is applied to the sole of the footwear, a smaller first count is generated by the sensor. The foot is in the footwear and the wearer is standing, and therefore When a large force is applied to the sole of the footwear, the sensor generates a larger second count. These and other count magnitude change conditions are outlined in Figure 20. In the embodiment of FIG. 20, a self-capacitance sensing mode is used. Thus, an increase in the detected capacitance corresponds to an increase in signal as shown.

[0170] In the example of FIG. 20, the interval for the no feet condition is from time zero to around time 900. The first interval 2001 is shown as the foot absence condition. During this time, the sensor records approximately zero counts. A first wearing interval 2002 is shown from about 9:00 to about 12:50. During the first wearing interval 2002, when the wearer's foot enters the shoe and rests on the insole of the shoe and allowing the wearer to adjust the footwear, such as by flattening any folds in the insert that press against the foot. The count fluctuates as the clock is adjusted.

[0171] After the first wearing interval of 2002, the first wearing time was from around 12:50 to 17:50. Seating interval 2003 is shown. During the first seating interval 2003, the wearer remains substantially still. The magnitude of the count is adjusted to allow the wearer to remain still and maintain a relaxed posture. After the first sitting interval 2003, at time 1750 The first foot rising interval 2004 is shown from around 2200 to 2200. During the 2004 Interval, the wearer remains seated but raises his feet off the floor, thus This removes the downward force acting on the footwear having the sensor. During the 2004 test, the wearer's feet are still physically present within the footwear, so the count The magnitude remains greater than zero, but the magnitude observed during the first sitting interval 2003 This is because the force acting on the sensor is smaller than the force acting on the sensor. In this example, the sensor recorded approximately 100 counts during the first foot up interval 2004. do.

[0172] After the first rising interval 2004, the first interval was from around 2200 to 2750. Standing intervals 2005 are shown. During the first standing interval 2005, the wearer is Stand upright with your feet on the footwear, thereby exerting a downward force on the footwear and the sensor. As can be seen from 20, the magnitude of the counts increased during this first standing interval 2005. The count increases to about 300. The magnitude of the count increases from the first seated interval 2003 and This can be larger than the magnitude observed during the first leg up interval 2004. This means that the relative force exerted by the wearer on the footwear during the first standing interval 2005 is greater. The larger the capacitance, the more the dielectric material above the electrodes of the capacitive sensor is compressed, thus preventing the sensor from detecting After the first standing interval 2005, First step / walk interval from about 2750 to 3200 During the first step / walk interval 2006, the wearer must not wear footwear. During the first step / walk interval, the number of counts increases. The length varies and corresponds to the wearer's gait cycle. The peak or maximum magnitude of the counts during interval 2006 is the maximum value at which the wearer's foot For cases where the wearer applies force to the footwear containing the sensor, such as when contacting the ground. The valley or peak in the magnitude of the count during the first step / walk interval 2006 The small value corresponds to the case when the wearer lifts his / her leg. The peak magnitude value is the first standing up event. The magnitude of the counts observed during Interval 2005 is greater than the minimum magnitude. This corresponds approximately to the value observed during the first foot up interval 2004. ,The counting flat area is the duration that the foot is on the ground (corresponding to a footfall event), or the duration that the foot is lifted from the ground. can be determined based on the relative lengths of each flat region.

[0173] After the first step / walking interval 2006, from around 3200 to 3600 The second seated interval 2007 is indicated by the The size of the count is observed during the first seating interval 2003 in the example of FIG. This change is especially noticeable in the first step / walk interval. Sensor baseline or reference capacitance after 2006, environmental effects, or wear This may be responsible for changes in the posture of the patient.

[0174] After the second seated interval 2007, from around 3600 to around 3750 A first shoe-off interval 2008 is shown. During this first shoe-off interval 2008: The count fluctuates as the wearer's foot exits the shoe and is removed again. After interval 2008, the magnitude of the counts was approximately zero, which corresponds to the paw-absent condition. Return to baseline values.

[0175] After returning to zero count around time 3750, the embodiment of FIG. 20 and a second cycle beginning with the first wear interval, during which the second wear interval is Seated interval, leg lift interval, standing interval, stepping / walking interval , a second seated interval, and a take-off interval, in that order.

[0176] In some embodiments, a foot presence threshold is used to determine whether a foot is present for footwear that includes a capacitive foot presence sensor. It is possible to determine whether a foot is present or absent. For example, for the sensor configuration used, the paw presence threshold is approximately 300 signal counts from the sensor. The bar presence threshold can be chosen such that more than a certain number of counts are observed. When the foot is placed in the footwear, the foot is in the footwear (or there is a very high possibility that the foot is in the footwear). Similarly, a foot presence threshold can be set to show that fewer than a certain number of counts are observed. When the foot is not in the footwear (or it is highly likely that the foot is not in the footwear), ) can be shown.

[0177] In some embodiments, the foot presence threshold may be adjusted based on, for example, changes in sensor characteristics, environmental influences on the sensor, etc. It can be adapted or changed in response to changes in sound and changing user preferences. For example: If the sensor electrodes are damaged or altered, the baseline capacitance value of the sensor will change. The reference measurements from the sensors may be altered accordingly. In certain embodiments, various electric and / or magnetic fields can affect the behavior of the sensor. This can change the baseline capacitance value of the sensor. In an embodiment, the user can adjust the foot presence of the sensor, e.g. For example, the sensor can be made more or less responsive to foot detection events. The foot presence threshold can be adjusted to accommodate any of these or other changes without impairing the foot presence sensing functionality. The method can be tailored to address one or more of the following:

[0178] 21A-21D schematically illustrate examples of different planar electrode assembly configurations. The shape or contour of each assembly is such that a lacing power source is configured to accommodate the electrode assembly. The enclosure or housing generally conforms to this shape, but other shapes may be used as well. In the embodiment of Figures 21A-21D, the electrode assembly is generally planar. The first conductive region or electrode (shown as a shaded region) is located around the periphery of the electrode. and a second non-conductive region located at the first conductive region and surrounded by the first conductive region. may have multiple conductive and non-conductive regions, e.g., the regions may be The electrodes may be arranged side by side or concentrically.

[0179] FIG. 21A shows a first central non-conductive region 2131 having a first surface area A1 and an average The substrate 2100 includes a first electrode assembly 2101 having a first electrode region 2121 with a thickness T1. In some embodiments, the average first thickness T1 is about 2 millimeters, and the first electrode assembly The conductive strips or loops are approximately 2 mm wide and extend along the periphery of the ribbon 2101. In some embodiments, the assembly includes a first non-conductive electrode outside the first electrode region 2121. It has a margin 2111.

[0180] FIG. 21B shows a second central non-conductive region 213 having a second surface area A2 that is smaller than A1. The second electrode assembly 2102 includes a second electrode assembly 2102 having a T1. and a second electrode region 2122 having an average second thickness T2 greater than or equal to the first electrode region 2122. , the average second thickness T2 is about 4 millimeters, and the second electrode assembly 2102 is In one embodiment, the conductive strips or loops are approximately 4 mm wide and extend along the The assembly includes a second non-conductive edge 2112 outside the second electrode region 2122. .

[0181] FIG. 21C shows a central third non-conductive region 213 having a third surface area A3 that is smaller than A2. The third electrode assembly 2103 includes a third electrode assembly 2103 having a T2. and a third electrode region 2123 having an average third thickness T3 greater than or equal to the third electrode region 2123. , the average third thickness T3 is about 6 mm, and the second electrode assembly 2102 is approximately In one embodiment, the conductive strips or loops are approximately 6 mm wide and extend along the The assembly includes a third non-conductive edge 2113 outside the third electrode region 2123. .

[0182] FIG. 21D shows the first to third electrode regions 2121 to 2122 in the examples of 21A to 21C. a central pervasive conductive region 2124 having a surface area greater than the surface area of ​​any of the In some embodiments, this assembly includes a fourth electrode assembly 2104. A fourth non-conductive edge 2114 is provided outside the central pervasive conductive region 2124. The fourth electrode assembly 2104 occupies nearly the entire available surface area and has a central non-conductive The electrode includes no conductive region.

[0183] FIG. 22 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a graph showing the relationship between capacitive sensor sensitivity and sensor geometry. Each of the curves shown represents a respective one of the electrode assemblies from the examples of FIGS. 21A-21D. For example, the first curve 2201 corresponds to data obtained using the first electrode assembly 2 101 (having a first electrode region 2121 of, for example, 2 mm width), and the second curve 220 2 is a second electrode assembly 2102 (e.g., having a second electrode region 2122 of 4 mm width) The third curve 2203 corresponds to the third electrode assembly 2103 (e.g., a 6 mm wide third electrode assembly). 2123), and a fourth curve 2204 corresponds to the fourth electrode assembly 210 4 (e.g., having a widespread electrode area 2124).

[0184] In the example of FIG. 22, the first to fourth curves 2201 to 2204 are the capacitance values ​​of one specific capacitance cell. The foot strike force against the sensor and the resulting counter Number of outputs (from the capacitive sensor or from the processor as an ADC circuit connected to the capacitive sensor) (see above explanation related to "count" as output of , the first curve 2201 shows the first electrode assembly 21 weighing approximately 20 pounds. When applied to a capacitive sensor containing 01, the resulting number of counts obtained from the sensor is approximately 20. The first curve 2201 further shows that the weight is approximately 100 pounds. When a weight of 1000kJ is applied to the same capacitance sensor, the resulting number of counts obtained from the sensor is approximately 70. Therefore, the figure for 9.07 to 36.29 kg (20 to 80 lbs) Over the interval shown, the sensor including the first electrode assembly 2101 recorded approximately 50 counts. Shows the difference.

[0185] In the example of FIG. 22, the second curve 2202 represents a weight of approximately 20 pounds. When applied to a capacitive sensor including the second electrode assembly 2102, the resulting The second curve 2202 further shows that the number of counts obtained is approximately 45.3. When a weight of 6 kg (approximately 100 lbs) is placed on the same capacitive sensor, the result is This indicates that the number of counts obtained from the g (20-80 lbs) over the illustrated interval. The sensor shows a difference of about 110 counts.

[0186] In the example of FIG. 22, the third curve 2203 represents a weight of approximately 20 pounds. When applied to a capacitive sensor including the third electrode assembly 2103, the resulting The third curve 2203 further shows that the number of counts obtained is approximately 45.3. When a weight of 6 kg (approximately 100 lbs) is placed on the same capacitive sensor, the result is This indicates that the number of counts obtained from the g (20-80 lbs) over the interval shown, including the third electrode assembly 2103. The sensor shows a difference of about 115 counts.

[0187] In the example of FIG. 22, the fourth curve 2204 represents a weight of approximately 20 pounds. When applied to a capacitive sensor including the fourth electrode assembly 2104, the resulting The fourth curve 2204 further shows that the number of counts obtained is approximately 45.3. When a weight of 6 kg (approximately 100 lbs) is placed on the same capacitive sensor, the result is This indicates that the number of counts obtained from the g (20-80 lbs) over the illustrated interval, including the fourth electrode assembly 2104. The sensor shows a difference of about 175 counts.

[0188] Each of the different sensor electrode assemblies or configurations spans the weight interval shown. The relationship is almost linear. However, the different slopes of the first to fourth curves 2201 to 2204 are The first curve 2201 shows the sensitivity of the first electrode assembly to changes in weight. The assembly 2101 has a relatively lower sensor sensitivity to weight changes, 27.22kJ This shows that there is only a difference of about 50 counts over a force swing of 60 lbs (100 g). Therefore, a sensor that includes or uses a fourth electrode assembly 2104 may, in some embodiments, ,weight change related events, e.g., standing, sitting, or stepping / walking events. It can provide higher resolution and more information.

[0189] FIG. 23 is a graph showing the relationship between sensor sensitivity and various types of orthodontic inserts. As mentioned above, the orthotic insert is part of a dielectric stack within the footwear. The inventors have demonstrated that capacitive sensing can be achieved using the planar electrode configuration described above. Various studies were conducted to evaluate the effect of various orthodontic inserts on the perception of spondylosis. In the example, a third electrode assembly 2103 (e.g., a 6 mm wide conductor) was used during testing. Full-length and partial-length orthotic insoles were tested. The addition of the orthotic increases the overall dielectric effect of the stack and also reduces the electric field sensitivity to the presence of the foot. The sensed signal amplitude (e.g., corresponding to the sensed change in capacitance) also However, the RMS amplitude of the noise floor was the same with and without the brace. The responses under both loaded and unloaded conditions were similar. To zero the test system, a baseline or reference capacitance or An offset was established for each insert.

[0190] In the embodiment of FIG. 23, the first orthotic curve 2301 corresponds to the fiberglass insert. Correspondingly, the second orthotic curve 2302 corresponds to a rigid polymer insert, and the third orthotic curve 23 03 accommodates polyurethane inserts (e.g., "standard" or factory-supplied insole material) The fourth corrector curve 2304 corresponds to the carbon fiber insert. Each of the curves 2301-2304 represents an approximately linear relationship between force and sensor output or counts. The geometric relationship (see, for example, FIG. 22) is generally maintained when using orthodontic inserts.

[0191] In the FIG. 23 example, a baseline or reference capacitance value is determined for each insert. In some embodiments, the carbon fiber inserts may be different from others. In the embodiment of FIG. 23, a given insert The sensor response (shown as a slope) to the In other words, a stiffer or more rigid insert will result in a flatter Instead, the curve corresponds approximately to the response curve of the tested material because the carbon fiber is conductive. This is the steepest gradient of the two. The capacitance increase due to compression is the largest, which is That is, the conductive insert transmits the electric field to the sensor, while the other inserts This is because the power supply leads to ground via a shorter, higher capacitance path than would be possible with conventional power supplies.

[0192] FIG. 24 illustrates a capacitive sensor in one or more components of footwear that includes a capacitive sensor. 24A and 24B show schematic diagrams of an example of a graph 2400 illustrating the relationship between sensor response and changes in fluid saturation. The example graph 2400 is shown in Figure 11, where a sock is worn and is located within an article of footwear that includes a capacitive sensor. This example shows the effect of simulated sweat applied to the ankle of the foot. This example tests sweat substitutes. Assembly to measure the output of the capacitive sensor over time and over multiple sit / stand cycles. We respond to tests conducted through monitoring over a period of time.

[0193] The test assembly may comprise a sock and a foot presenting device according to one or more embodiments described herein. The foot includes footwear including a sensor. Sweat is measured by introducing saline into the ankle area of ​​the foot. Approximately 10 milliliters of saline was injected into each test interval. For example, the volumetric data was added at intervals shown in graph 2400 of FIG. The total cumulative volume of solution collected is shown.

[0194] The example of Figure 24 begins with a short first interval 2401 with no foot in the footwear. During the first interval 2401, the capacitive sensor output is approximately zero counts. During the test 2402, the foot is in the footwear and is mostly dry, and the counts from the sensors are The output records a non-zero baseline or reference value (eg, about 140 counts). During the third interval 2403, the wearer stands up, which causes the count output from the sensor to Increase (for example, to about 200 counts). Following the third interval 2403, Several sit-stand cycles were performed in sequence, with simulated sweat or saline solution added during each cycle. This is carried out by adding water.

[0195] The embodiment of FIG. 24 generally prevents sweat or moisture from affecting the output count from the capacitance sensor. For example, when the test assembly is dry and the subject is seated ( For example, the baseline or reference count value for the second interval (corresponding to the second interval 2402) is: Base when test assembly is wet (partially saturated) and subject is seated In the example of FIG. 24, the test The assembly was nearly saturated after the addition of approximately 60 milliliters of simulated sweat. Therefore, the baseline or reference count value is between approximately zero and 60 milliliters of added fluid. The relative slope can be observed, but the baseline or reference count is 60 ml There was not much change when more liquid was added.

[0196] The baseline or reference conditions for different fluid saturation levels vary between seated and standing positions. However, adjacent sitting duration (e.g., flattened valley) and standing duration (e.g., flattened valley) The difference in counts between the peaks (i.e., the peaks observed) is approximately the same for any amount of simulated sweat or saturation. For example, between the second and third intervals 2402 and 2403, i.e., the dry The first count difference under dry conditions is observed to be about 60 counts from FIG. The seated interval and wake-up time under saturated conditions, such as in the 70 mL notation on the F2400. The difference in counts between the dry interval and the dry interval was about 75 counts. A difference of only about 15 counts is observed under non-saturating conditions. , footwear use in the presence of varying baseline or reference capacitance conditions The information can be used to determine the presence or absence of a foot, or the force applied to the sensor, such as the foot impact force. This information can be used to determine the seating posture. The difference between the standing and standing postures can be distinguished.

[0197] Figure 25 shows the relationship between the sensor response and the simulated sweat. A graph example is shown schematically with the averaged signal. The average curve 2410 calculated as a slowly varying average of the saccounts is shown in the example of FIG. This average curve 2410 represents the time-varying baseline. Capable of responding to capacitance values ​​and identifying the presence or absence of a foot relative to the footwear For example, when a wearer takes off his / her foot from the footwear, The sensor output comparison is based on relative sensor outputs such as from conventional footwear occupancy by the same or different wearers. Instead of relying on or using the information, the absolute standard shown by the average curve 2410 is used. This can be done by changing the moisture content in or around the sensor or sensor target. Using information about the changing reference conditions for the capacitive sensor, such as In particular, for use in determining whether a foot is present or absent relative to footwear. The threshold can be adjusted.

[0198] FIG. 26 illustrates an example of a state diagram 2600 for a sweat compensation method. 0 includes a first block of states 2610 and a second block of states 2620. Block 2610 represents the basic foot presence detection functionality of the system. represents a compensation function, which may optionally be used to, for example, compensate for a foot presence sensor in footwear. Augmenting automated footwear operation by updating baseline or reference characteristics for It is possible.

[0199] An embodiment may include, for example, detecting when a foot is not present in the footwear or when a foot is near a foot presence sensor in the footwear. The footwear system including the foot presence sensor is capable of detecting resting, sleeping, and other movements, such as when the foot is not present. ), or inactive state 2601. The intensity may be, for example, according to a particular duty cycle or in response to a command from the user. The sensor may be non-zero or non-baseline and monitored by a processor circuit. When a non-zero response is detected, the processor circuit activates other circuits to detect the presence of a non-zero response. For example, if the footwear is worn and the capacitive sensor detects presence or noise, When recording other than the reference or baseline capacitance, It can be matched or exceeded, which triggers other processes to determine whether the foot is in the footwear. You can check whether it is or not.

[0200] In state 2602, an embodiment fills a memory buffer with collected sensor data. The data may be used to determine whether a foot is present or absent, or to distinguish a foot presence signal from noise. The buffer may be sufficient to make all decisions. When the state 2603 is reached, the state 2603 is reached. The system then performs a "debounce" analysis to determine whether a foot is present. Debounce analysis can involve, among other things, signal smoothing, averaging, time delay, or other processing, which allows signal noise to be distinguished from useful foot presence information. Make sure that

[0201] Debounce analysis monitors capacitance-indicating signal changes and The speed characteristic can be determined from the speed indicator signal. In some embodiments, debounce analysis monitors velocity characteristics to determine when the foot is partially or fully seated on the shoe insole. When the capacitance indication signal has settled to a nearly constant or steady state value, , the foot can be considered fully seated, which allows the system to activate the automatic lacing function or Triggering one or more other functions in the automated footwear, such as a data collection function. can be done.

[0202] In the example of FIG. 26, the debounce analysis is performed by detecting "above-threshold and below-threshold capacitive values." The threshold value is the slope of the threshold. "Capsense value above threshold" is the value detected by the capacitive foot presence sensor. Record the value at which the capacitance indicating signal from the sensor exceeds the reference or baseline capacitance value. "Slope below threshold" indicates that the Indicates that the rate of change of the persistence-indicating signal is less than a specified reference or baseline rate of change value. For example, this indicates that the foot is in the footwear but is substantially stationary relative to the sensor. When both conditions are met, the interrupt is sent to one or more other processors or devices. The footwear may be supplied with a signal to trigger one or more other functions of the footwear.

[0203] That is, from state 2603, the system: (1) detects a non-zero response before a reliable foot presence indication; (1) a non-zero response indicates a valid leg presence signal; and (2) a non-zero response indicates a valid leg presence signal. For (1), the system returns to state 2601 and enters low power mode. For (2), the system proceeds to state 2604. In proceeding to 04, the system verifies that the sensor response exceeds a specified threshold, and In some embodiments, the signal slope characteristics are verified to meet or exceed specified slope criteria. As shown in FIG. 26, an interrupt based on a bar presence determination may be generated by one or more processors. The sensor or device can then transmit, for example, the presence of a foot. Sometimes an interrupt triggers another action or process. For example, an interrupt may be used by a lacing power source. State 2: At 604, the system maintains a state that includes a positive foot presence indication, and the system Configure to wait for other signals or interrupts to start or perform subsequent processes can be done.

[0204] From state 2604, the system can go to a lower power or sleep state. where the system can wait for more data or a detected change in the sensor signal. In some embodiments, state 2605 indicates that the foot is in the shoe and the shoe is being actively used. For example, the debounce analysis in state 2603 indicates If the footwear automatically laces and secures the foot based on the foot presence determination, state 260 In step 5, the footwear is kept fixed around the foot and the sensor status is periodically monitored. In another embodiment, the footwear may be configured to change its state by triggering a footwear state change command or waiting for another interrupt that changes the footwear state. Monitoring the capacitance indicative signal from the foot presence sensor at 2605 , monitoring signals with relatively low frequencies, for example, 1 to 2 Hz or less. and identifying whether the capacitance indicative signal changes by more than a threshold amount.

[0205] In some embodiments, if the signal indicates more than a threshold change, the state machine goes to state Proceed to 2606 where the foot presence indication interrupt can be cleared. Therefore, proceeding to state 2606 indicates that the baseline or reference characteristics of the sensor should be updated. This may include a hardware or software check to determine whether The note "HW Anti-touch Recal Threshold Passed" indicates that The dynamic calibration process is shown in FIG. 26. The foot is removed and the capacitance indicating foot presence signal is reset at state 2606. If the issue falls below a certain threshold, a new standard or baseline can be established. The reference or baseline is used to perform further detection actions, such as from state 2606. It is possible.

[0206] Various changes within the footwear itself, such as over the course of footwear use, can occur even when the foot is not actually in the footwear. At some point, a sensor signal indicating the presence of a foot is generated. For example, due to sweat, one or more of the footwear may become dislodged. Fluid saturation or wetting of further components will result in a capacitance indication from the capacitive sensor. This may affect the signal and may result in a false indication that the foot is in the footwear. Thus, in state 2605, the system periodically checks whether the foot is in the footwear. The system may be configured to initiate or implement analysis and compensation routines to verify whether the do.

[0207] In the embodiment of FIG. 26, the compensation routine involves the collection and interpretation of timed data from the capacitance sensor. For example, a compensation routine in state 2607 following state 2605. can be triggered periodically or intermittently. In some embodiments, the compensation routine This compensation routine is performed on the order of every few minutes or hours. The signal is collected and monitored for changes. If the signal meets a specific threshold, the signal is monitored for changes or variations. If the variation is greater than or equal to the footwear, the system determines that the foot is likely to be in the footwear. The compensation routine can be executed for a specific duration and can maintain the state 2605. However, if the sensor signal is too low for the monitored interval, If the foot is determined to be relatively quiet or unchanged over time, the system It can be determined that the person is likely absent and the system will return to state 2601. In this embodiment, the return to state 2601 may be a baseline or baseline Recalibration to determine if the quasi-capacitance indication signal requires updating include.

[0208] In some embodiments, foot displacement information, such as with respect to sensors within the footwear, is The gradient of the displacement information can be determined using the count information from the capacitance sensor. It can represent the foot's velocity characteristics within the In some embodiments, information about foot velocity characteristics can be used to determine footwear speed. One or more features of the speed profile can be triggered. This allows the identification of footwear donning or doffing events and triggers automatic lacing or unlacing procedures. Each can be triggered.

[0209] Figure 27 illustrates a schematic example of a graph showing foot presence sensor data. 27 shows a first curve 2701 (solid and The embodiment of FIG. 27 further includes a filtered version of the first curve 2701. 27. The second curve 2702 (shown as a short dashed line) is a portion of the The second curve 2702 is used for foot presence detection by comparing its magnitude with a particular threshold magnitude. For values ​​of the second curve 2702 above a certain threshold, the foot is in footwear. It can be shown that for values ​​of the second curve 2702 that do not exceed a certain threshold, the foot is The threshold and / or baseline from the sensor can be used to indicate absence of an object. The capacitance value can be updated or changed as described above.

[0210] The example of Figure 27 includes a third curve 2703 (shown as a long dashed line). 03 is the slope of the first curve 2701 over a particular advance duration. The length of the advance duration can be determined by the desired performance characteristics of the sensor or system. (e.g., attack time, or sensitivity, or noise, or sudden signal, or signal bounce) The amount of stimulant can be adjusted or tuned based on the tolerance to stimulant.

[0211] In some embodiments, the magnitude of the third curve 2703 may be related to the relative velocity of the footwear containing the sensor, or can represent the relative velocity of the foot in the footwear when the foot is wearing the footwear. The large magnitude of O3 is due to the vertical (z) and horizontal (x / y) displacement of the foot relative to the sensor. The small magnitude of the third curve 2703 corresponds to a small velocity or displacement. It can handle low speeds.

[0212] The FIG. 27 embodiment further includes a fourth curve 2704 (shown as alternating short / long dashed lines). The fourth curve 2704 indicates whether the foot is present or absent within the footwear. Curve 2704 is therefore a binary signal in the embodiment of FIG. 27 and has high and low It has two states: high and low.

[0213] In some embodiments, the presence or absence of a foot in footwear The decision is made using information from both the second and third curves 2702 and 2703 (e.g., For example, if the signal information from the second curve 2702 is A signal below a specified threshold (e.g., below 30 counts) and subsequently If a change in speed is detected, it can indicate foot presence. The change can be a change in velocity greater than a certain threshold velocity amount. The detected velocity change may be, for example, a velocity change or waveform morphology that is compared with a known velocity corresponding to the presence of a foot. A velocity profile comparison can be included to compare the degree change or velocity profile.

[0214] In some embodiments, footwear velocity or displacement information is obtained from a separate sensor, e.g., a sensor in or on the footwear. This can be obtained from an accelerometer or gyroscope mounted on the Such velocity or displacement information may optionally be combined with information about the velocity of the foot relative to sensors in the footwear. For example, this foot speed information can be used in conjunction with other information, such as the can be used to determine optimal footwear tension characteristics during footwear use, such as during biking. In some embodiments, foot speed information is obtained from a hard stop or sprint (accelerometer or Stopping relative movement between the foot and the footwear during It is used to optimize tension characteristics for a specific tension level, such as just enough to hold the Conversely, if no foot or footwear velocity or acceleration is detected, the tension characteristics It can be determined that excessive or unnecessary footwear tension is present and footwear tension can be loosened. For example, if your feet swell during activity, you may need to remove your footwear until a certain slower speed is detected. Able to be loosened (e.g., laces can be loosened).

[0215] In some embodiments, footwear including an automatic lacing feature can be removed from the foot in multiple ways. For example, footwear may have a button that the wearer can press to reduce tension in the laces. In some embodiments, one or The baseline or reference value of the sensor is determined by the amount of moisture contained in the wearer's socks during use of the footwear. may be changed or updated due to factors such as: When the tongue is pressed, one or more sensors or the footwear baseline or base The reference value may be reset or set to zero, for example, to facilitate subsequent bar presence detection. It is possible.

[0216] In other embodiments, the footwear can be pried open. The system may detect foot absence using, for example, sub-threshold counts from a capacitive foot presence sensor. By detecting the presence of a key, the footwear can be configured to detect when it is being forced open. In some embodiments, foot absence corresponds to a change in speed and / or a known shoe-off speed profile. The count information from the capacitive sensor is used together with velocity information indicating the velocity profile or shape of the This can be partially detected using the information.

[0217] 28A-30D show an example of a shoe insole assembly having a lacing power source assembly 2803. Example and lacing power source assembly in lacing power source cavity 2801 within a shoe insole 28A, 28B, and 28C are schematic diagrams showing various techniques or embodiments for placing or holding the 2803. 9A, 29B, 29C, 30B, 30C, and 30D are user-installed lacing power assembly. An example user accessing the bridle 2803 and / or lacing power source cavity 2801. The user's hands shown in the drawing are not required and any It is not necessary to the embodiments and does not form part of the present invention.

[0218] 28A and 28B illustrate an embodiment of a shoe insole assembly with a tonneau cover 2802. The shoe insole assembly can accommodate the lacing power source assembly 2803. In the embodiment of FIG. 28A, the lace power source cavity 2801 may be The no cover 2802, together with the lacing power source assembly disposed therein, The tonneau cover is shown elevated to reveal cavity 2801. -2802 is installed to cover almost the entire lacing power source cavity 2801.

[0219] In some embodiments, the lacing power assembly 2803 includes electrodes ( For example, see the electrode assembly examples described herein, particularly those of FIGS. 21A-21D. In some embodiments, the insulating material may be a dielectric material (e.g., neoprene, or Other closed or open cell rubber or foam, EVA, or other materials) for lacing power A tonneau cover 2802 may be provided over the dielectric member. In some embodiments, the tonneau cover 2802 may be positioned around the arch of the wearer's foot. In some embodiments, the tonneau cover 2802 can be contoured to accommodate moisture. An arched or arched closure helps deflect the lacing power assembly 2803 away from the The Tonneau Cover 2802 is made of carbon fiber, EVA, or neoprene rubber. They can be made of a variety of rigid or flexible materials, such as This allows the underlying capacitance sensor to be configured to have a higher sensitivity for detecting the body. Therefore, the tonneau cover 2802 serves as a protective cover for the strapping power assembly 2803. and in some embodiments may augment foot sensing capabilities.

[0220] 29A-29D show a first hook and loop for lacing power source cavity 2801. 1 shows a schematic representation of an embodiment of a shoe insole assembly having a cover, the cover being configured to accommodate a lacing power source. The cover is provided between the assembly 2803 and the foot receiving surface of the footwear. Retention of the lacing power source assembly 2803 within the cavity 2801 and One or more electrodes in or adjacent to the portion of the dielectric stack above the source assembly 2803 More material than this is in a non-compressed or less compressed state, especially when the footwear is empty. In some embodiments, the hook and loop The cover provides stress relief to the dielectric stack mounted on the strap-on power source assembly 2803. or pressure reduction. The block can be biased toward a non-compressed state.

[0221] In the embodiment of FIG. 29A, the first hook and loop cover is adapted to prevent lacing movement in the shoe insole. The hook has a peripheral portion 2901 that follows the peripheral edge of the force source cavity 2801. The outer edge of portion 2901 is aligned with one or more edges of lacing power source cavity 2801. and the inner edge of the hook peripheral portion 2901 may be flexible. and each other to accommodate insertion into the cavity of the lacing power source assembly 2803. The lacing power source assembly 2803 is secured by a loop material cover 2902. The loop material cover 2902 can cover the lacing power source in the shoe insole. This can help hold the lacing power source assembly 2803 within the cavity 2801. In some embodiments, the loop material covering 2902 is hydrophobic and may also be used to tighten the laces. and having an outward facing side configured to help redirect moisture away from the power source. do.

[0222] 30A-30D illustrate a second hook and loop cover for a lacing power source assembly. 30A and 30B show schematic diagrams of an embodiment of a shoe insole assembly having hooks and The loop material covers 3001 and 3002 are provided in the shoe insole to cover the lace tightening power source cavity 2. In FIG. 30B, the hook cover 3001 covers the lace fastening in the shoe insole. The first side edge of the power source cavity 2801 is connected to the first side edge of the hook material cover 3001. The lacing power source cavity 2801 can be coupled to the insole on a first side thereof and can also be The lacing power source cavity 28 of the lacing power source assembly 2803 may be flexible. 30C) can be raised relative to one another to accommodate insertion into O1. The side edge of the loop material cover 3002 is opposite the lacing power source cavity 2801. The hook and root material cover 3001 can be attached to the insole on two sides. and 3002 are partially overlapping and connected to each other.

[0223] One or more members of the dielectric stack 3004 may be connected to the lacing power source assembly 2803. The embodiment of FIG. 30D may be provided adjacent to or on the top surface of a portion of the In the example, the dielectric stack 3004 is located within the housing of the lacing power source assembly 2803. a neoprene layer or doped EVA layer adjacent to the electrode assembly on the side The lacing power source assembly 2803 with the dielectric stack 3004 is shown in FIG. The hook and loop material covers 3001 and 3002 can be used to cover the The hook and loop material covers 3001 and 3002 are used to tighten the lacing power source caps in the shoe insole. The lacing power source assembly 2803 can be configured to be held within the closure 2801. In this embodiment, the hook and loop material covers 3001 and 3002 over one of the covers. The cover is hydrophobic and is designed to keep moisture away from the lace power assembly 2803. It has an outward (foot-facing) side configured to aid in turning.

[0224] In the embodiment of FIG. 30D, the dielectric stack 3004 is 3. Overlaying a portion of the housing at 3. Polyurethane or other foam or A gap filler such as a compressible member may be inserted to cover the remainder or other portion of the housing. and provide a relatively seamless and comfortable surface for the sole of the user's foot. This gap filler is monitored by a capacitive foot presence sensor in the lacing power source assembly 2803. In other words, the gap filling can be made substantially transparent to the electric field that is filling the gap. The material is a capacitive load located within or connected to the lacing power source assembly 2803. Select one that minimizes impact or influence on the foot presence signal from the presence sensor. can be done.

[0225] Hook and loop assemblies in the embodiments of FIGS. 29A-29D and 30A-30D 2803. The lacing power assembly 2803 may be configured to absorb impact forces from the foot, for example, by directing the impact forces away from the lacing power assembly 2803. and may be configured to assist in dispersing the force of the airflow and still maintain the foot against the footwear. within the lacing power source assembly 2803 to monitor or detect the presence or absence of (or adjacent to it) shall be nearly transparent to the electric field used by the capacitive sensor In some embodiments, the various hook and loop assemblies described herein may be Alternatively, the tonneau cover may cause an outward or upward mechanical deflection away from the dielectric stack 3004. This reduces the effects of repeated compression of the dielectric stack 3004 caused by footwear use and thereby Foot presence perception sensitivity, fidelity, and dynamic range over repeated and long-term footwear use The system may be configured to maintain

[0226] The following aspects relate to the footwear, capacitive sensors, capacitive sensor signal processing, and speed-related Provides a non-limiting overview of signal processing.

[0227] Aspect 1 is a method for performing an invention (e.g., an apparatus, a system, a device, a method, a means for performing an action) or a device-readable medium containing instructions that, when executed by a device, cause the device to perform an action. may include or use a medium, for example, a method The method includes detecting a time-varying sensor signal from a sensor coupled to the footwear article, the sensor is configured to sense information about the proximity of the foot to the sensor, receiving a sensor signal; and using the time-varying sensor signal to measure the sensor. and using a processor circuit to identify foot velocity characteristics. In some embodiments, aspect 1 may include: determining whether a footwear-coupled sensor is coupled to the footwear based on the identified velocity characteristics; The sensor or different sensors may be used to measure the footwear or the proximity of the foot to the sensor. In some embodiments, the method may further comprise the step of initiating data collection for the aspect. 1. updating an automated function of the footwear based on the identified velocity characteristics. The step of updating the automatic function of the footwear may include: Activate or inhibit the automatic lacing function of footwear, such as fastening the foot to the shoe or releasing the footwear from the foot. The method may include the step of:

[0228] Aspect 2 includes or uses a combination with the subject matter of Aspect 1, or optionally a combination Optionally, the step of identifying a velocity characteristic of the time-varying sensor signal may include using displacement information about the position of the foot relative to the

[0229] Aspect 3 includes or uses a combination with the subject matter of Aspect 2, or optionally a combination Optionally, the step of using the processor circuitry includes: Determining whether the foot is present in the article of footwear based on the velocity characteristics.

[0230] Aspect 4 is a patent application that includes the gist of either aspect 2 or 3 or any combination thereof. or may be used, or optionally combined, with said processor circuitry. determining a footfall count using the identified speed characteristic; Includes steps.

[0231] Aspect 5 may include any one of Aspects 2 to 4 or any combination thereof. and optionally, the processor circuitry may be The step of using includes a step of determining a foot impact force characteristic using the identified velocity characteristic. Includes top.

[0232] Aspect 6 includes or uses a combination with the subject matter of Aspect 1, or optionally a combination and optionally, the time-varying sensor signal may be used to identify the speed characteristic. Step 1 uses the processor circuit to: (1) measure the time-varying sensor signal corresponding to foot impact; and identifying a second portion of the time-varying sensor signal corresponding to a foot lift. (2) distinguishing between the first and second portions of the time-varying sensor signal. information about the movement to determine step counts, speed, or distance traveled. Step and.

[0233] Aspect 7 includes or uses a combination with the subject matter of Aspect 1, or optionally a combination and optionally, the time-varying sensor signal may be used to identify the speed characteristic. Step 1 uses the processor circuit to: (1) measure the time-varying sensor signal corresponding to foot impact; and identifying a second portion of the time-varying sensor signal corresponding to a foot lift. and (2) identifying a time-varying sensor signal using at least the first portion of the time-varying sensor signal. determining a life cycle state of an insole component of the footwear; .

[0234] Aspect 8 includes or uses a combination with, or optionally in combination with, the subject matter of aspect 7. and optionally, determining a life cycle state of an insole component of the footwear. The determining step includes identifying a peak-to-peak excursion characteristic of the time-varying sensor signal. The method includes the step of:

[0235] Aspect 9 includes the gist of either or any combination of Aspects 7 and 8. can be used or optionally combined, and optionally the determined lifespan Ikle shows that the insole does not provide enough cushioning for the user. When the footwear condition indicator is reached, the method further comprises the step of reporting the footwear condition indicator to the user.

[0236] Aspect 10 is a method for producing a pharmaceutical composition comprising one or any combination of aspects 1 to 9. and optionally, may be used with or in combination with an automatic function of said footwear. The step of updating the footwear is configured to tighten or loosen the footwear around the foot. The method includes the step of initiating or inhibiting operation of the automatic lacing power source.

[0237] Aspect 11 includes the gist of one of Aspects 1 to 10 or any combination thereof. or may be used, or optionally combined, and optionally The step of receiving the time-varying sensor signal includes receiving a time-varying capacitance signal from a capacitive sensor. receiving an indication signal.

[0238] Aspect 12 includes or uses, or optionally combines, the subject matter of aspect 11. and optionally receiving a time-varying capacitance indicative signal from said capacitive sensor. The step of transmitting a drive signal to a non-driven shield configured for use with the capacitive sensor. The method includes the step of:

[0239] Aspect 13 is any combination of Aspects 11 and 12 or any combination of Aspects 11 and 12. may include or use, or optionally be combined with, said process A time-varying capacitance measurement from the capacitive sensor is performed using a sensor circuit for a specified duration. intermittently monitoring an indicative signal, and determining whether said signal is indicative for said specified duration. When the change in signal is less than a specified threshold, the reference capacitance characteristic of the capacitive sensor is activated. and updating the information.

[0240] Aspect 14 includes or uses, or optionally combines, the subject matter of aspect 13. and optionally updating the reference capacitance characteristic. includes using a moving average of the output from the capacitive sensor.

[0241] Aspect 15 includes or uses, or optionally combines, the subject matter of aspect 13. Optionally, the time-varying sensor signal and the updated reference capacitance can be identifying a subsequent velocity characteristic of said foot relative to said sensor using said foot velocity characteristic. It is equipped with a pool.

[0242] Aspect 16 includes the gist of one of Aspects 1 to 15 or any combination thereof. or used, or optionally combined, and optionally one or more of the footwear Previously identified based on the detected lifecycle state of one or more components The step of adjusting the recording speed characteristics is also included.

[0243] Aspect 17 is a patent application that includes one or any combination of aspects 1 to 16. or optionally in combination with said aging sensor. The signal receiving step includes receiving signals while the foot is being inserted into or removed from the footwear. and identifying a velocity characteristic of the time-varying sensor signal includes identifying a velocity characteristic of the toe portion of the foot, an arch portion of the foot, and a velocity characteristic of the toe portion of the foot. The changing proximity of the foot, such as when the front and heel portions approach the sensors in the footwear. The method includes identifying a characteristic of the image.

[0244] Aspect 18 is directed to a method for performing the subject matter of the invention (e.g., an apparatus, a system, a device, a method, a method for performing an act). A device may contain instructions that, when executed by the device, cause the device to perform an action. such as a foot proximity sensor system for footwear. The system may include or use a capacitive proximity sensor coupled to the footwear item. and providing a time-varying sensor signal indicative of the proximity of the foot to said sensor. a capacitive proximity sensor and a processor connected to the proximity sensor, In an eighteenth aspect, the processor circuit includes a time-varying sensor signal. and based on the identified speed characteristics, (1) using the same proximity sensor or a different sensor coupled to the footwear Initiate data collection about the footwear or the position of the foot relative to the sensor. and (2) updating an automated function of the footwear. In some embodiments, updating the automatic functions of the footwear may be performed. includes activating or inhibiting the automatic lacing function of the footwear.

[0245] Aspect 19 includes or uses, or optionally combines, the subject matter of aspect 18. Optionally, the capacitive proximity sensor may comprise a planar electrode and an inner surface of the footwear. It has a non-drive shield located at or near the sole.

[0246] Aspect 20 includes or uses, or optionally combines, the subject matter of aspect 19. and optionally, using the identified speed characteristics, performing footfall counting, the processor configured to determine one or more of foot impact force and locomotion velocity. It has a circuit.

[0247] Aspect 21 includes the gist of one of Aspects 18 to 20 or any combination thereof. and optionally, in the footwear the capacitive proximity sensor to adapt to changes in fluid saturation of one or more components The processor circuit is configured to update a reference characteristic of the sensor.

[0248] Aspect 22 includes the gist of one of Aspects 18 to 21 or any combination thereof. and optionally, the capacitive proximity The device includes or uses a dielectric stack disposed between the sensor and the foot-receiving surface of the footwear.

[0249] Aspect 23 includes or uses the subject matter of Aspect 22, or optionally combines it with the subject matter of Aspect 22. and optionally a hook disposed between the capacitive proximity sensor and a foot receiving surface of the footwear. The hook and loop cover may be provided or used. The dielectric stack is configured to bias toward an uncompressed state.

[0250] Aspect 24 is directed to a method for performing the subject matter of the invention (e.g., an apparatus, a system, a device, a method, a method for performing an act). A device may contain instructions that, when executed by the device, cause the device to perform an action. and may include or use a reading medium, such as an automatic footwear for use in an article of footwear. The system may include or utilize a footwear system configured for placement within the footwear article. A lace tightening power source and a lace tightening power source housing, and a process provided in the housing. a sensor circuit and a capacitance sensor, the capacitance sensor including at least one electrode and a front a corresponding non-drive shield at least partially disposed within the housing, A capacitive sensor senses changes in the proximity of the body to the at least one electrode and and configured to provide a time-varying sensor signal indicative of the proximity of the body to the electrodes. In some embodiments, in aspect 24, the processor circuitry may further include: and based on the identified speed characteristics, (1) using the same capacitive sensor or using a different sensor coupled to the footwear, Initiate data collection about the footwear or about the proximity of the body to the electrodes. and (2) controlling the automatic operation of the lacing power source to initiate or inhibit automatic functions of the footwear. The device may be configured to perform at least one of: updating the operating functions;

[0251] Aspect 25 includes or uses, or optionally combines, the subject matter of aspect 24. and optionally, using the identified speed characteristics, performing footfall counting, the processor configured to determine one or more of foot impact force and locomotion velocity. It has a circuit.

[0252] Aspect 26 includes the gist of either Aspect 24 or Aspect 25 or any combination thereof. and optionally disposed within said footwear. based on detected fluid saturation changes in one or more coupled components. the processor circuit configured to update the reference characteristic of the capacitive sensor. .

[0253] Aspect 27 includes the gist of one of Aspects 24 to 26 or any combination thereof. and optionally including or using a capacitive sensor. and a capacitive sensor mounted on the side facing the foot, which enhances the sensitivity of the capacitive sensor to the body. In some embodiments, the dielectric stack comprises or uses a dielectric stack configured to has neoprene or doped EVA material.

[0254] Aspect 28 includes the gist of one of Aspects 24 to 27 or any combination thereof. and optionally, the dielectric stack may include or use a The invention also provides or uses a suspension member configured to bias the rack away from the compressed state. do.

[0255] Aspect 29 includes the gist of one of Aspects 24 to 28 or any combination thereof. and optionally, the identified speed characteristics. and activating an automatic lacing function of the footwear based on the footwear's The processor circuitry is configured to update the functionality.

[0256] Various notes The above description includes references to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the detailed description. For the purpose of illustrating specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced, these embodiments are referred to herein as " These embodiments may include other elements in addition to those shown or described. However, the inventors have provided only those elements shown or described. Further, the inventors contemplate the use of any particular embodiment shown or described herein. The embodiment (or one or more aspects thereof) or other example shown or described Any combination or permutation of these elements (or one or more aspects thereof) is also contemplated. Examples of use are also contemplated.

[0257] In this specification, the terms "a" and "an" commonly used in patent documents are used interchangeably with any other context. Independently includes one or more than one, i.e., "at least one" "first one" or "one or more." In this document, the term "or" is used to refer to a non-exclusive Therefore, unless otherwise indicated, "A or B" means "A and / or B" "A but not B", "B but not A" and "A and B (A and B). As used herein, the terms "including" and " "in which" is used in conjunction with the corresponding terms "comprising" and Used as the plain English equivalent of "wherein" Furthermore, in the claims, the terms "including" and "comprising" "comprising" is open-ended, i.e., such a term in a claim still A system including elements in addition to those recited below that are deemed to fall within the scope of the claims. The invention is a system, device, article, composition, formulation, or process. The terms "first," "second," "third," etc. in are used as symbols of various objects and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on those objects. Not illustrated.

[0258] Geometric terms, such as "parallel," "perpendicular," "round" "round" or "square" are absolute mathematical terms unless the context indicates otherwise. It is not intended that such geometric terms be used in any way that requires precise precision. Instead, such geometric terms are used in any way that is suitable for manufacturing or Allows for variation due to equivalent function. For example, if an element is "round" or "nearly round," If described, it may not be strictly circular (e.g., slightly oval or polygonal with many sides). ) components are still encompassed by this description.

[0259] The method embodiments described herein may be at least partially machine or computer implemented. Some embodiments may be implemented as methods as described in the above embodiments. a computer operable to encode instructions to configure an electronic device to The implementation of such a method may include a microcomputer. It can contain code such as: Such code may include computer-readable instructions for performing various methods. The code may form part of a computer program product. In some embodiments, the code may be volatile, persistent, or non-volatile during execution or at other times. The invention can be tangibly stored on any tangible computer-readable medium. Examples of data-readable media include, but are not limited to, hard disks and removable magnetic disks. , removable optical disks (e.g., compact disks and digital video disks) , magnetic cassettes, memory cards or memory sticks, random access memories (RAMs), and similar.

[0260] The above description is illustrative and not intended to be limiting. The examples (or one or more other aspects thereof) may be used in combination with each other. Other embodiments may be used by, for example, those skilled in the art upon review of the above description. The abstract is presented to allow the reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure. The understanding that the Abstract will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Furthermore, in the foregoing detailed description, various features have been incorporated herein by reference in their entirety to simplify the present disclosure. This is not a patent disclosure. No feature should be construed as intended as essential to any claim. Rather, inventive subject matter may lie in less than all features of a particular disclosed embodiment. Therefore, the claims are intended to encompass any and all of the inventions herein that are included within the detailed description as examples or embodiments. and each claim stands on its own as a separate embodiment, and It is expected that the features may be combined with each other in various combinations or permutations. The scope of the present invention is defined by reference to the claims and the equivalents to which the claims are entitled. The full range of

Claims

1. Identifying a change in fluid saturation due to sweat in one or more components including a capacitive sensor having at least one electrode disposed in or coupled to the footwear; calibrating the foot presence sensor by updating a baseline, or reference condition, of the foot presence sensor based on the change in fluid saturation; the foot presence sensor is coupled to the footwear, the foot presence sensor configured to sense information about a proximity of a foot to the sensor; receiving a time-varying sensor signal from the capacitive sensor included in the calibrated foot presence sensor, the time-varying sensor signal being indicative of the proximity of the body to the electrodes; and initiating data collection about the footwear or about the proximity of the foot to a sensor, or updating an automated function of the footwear, based on the time-varying sensor signal.

2. further comprising using the time-varying sensor signal to identify a velocity characteristic of the foot relative to the foot presence sensor; The method of claim 1 , further comprising determining whether a foot is present in footwear based on velocity characteristics.

3. The method of claim 1 , wherein receiving the time-varying sensor signal from the calibrated foot presence sensor comprises receiving a time-varying capacitance-indicative signal from a capacitive sensor.

4. The method of claim 3 , wherein receiving a time-varying capacitance indicative signal from the capacitive sensor comprises providing a drive signal to a driven shield configured for use with the capacitive sensor.

5. intermittently monitoring a time-varying capacitance-indicative signal from the capacitive sensor for a specified duration; 4. The method of claim 3, further comprising updating a baseline capacitance characteristic of the capacitive sensor when the time-varying capacitance indicative signal is less than a specified threshold signal change for the specified duration.

6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the baseline or reference condition of the foot presence sensor comprises a running average of the values ​​of the time-varying sensor signal.

7. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein identifying a change in fluid saturation of one or more components disposed within or coupled to the footwear is based on a change in the time-varying sensor signal when a foot is placed within the footwear.

8. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein identifying a detected fluid saturation change of one or more components disposed within or coupled to the footwear is based on a change in a time-varying sensor signal when no foot is disposed within the footwear.

9. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein updating the automatic functionality of the footwear includes initiating or inhibiting operation of an automatic lacing power source configured to tighten or loosen the footwear around a foot.

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