Footwear with electrically operated laces and gesture control.

Abstract

To provide an article of footwear with motorized lacing and gesture control.SOLUTION: An article of footwear includes a motorized tensioning system, sensors, and a gesture control system. Based on information received from one or more sensors, the gesture control system may detect a prompting gesture and enters an enabled mode for receiving further instructions. In the enabled mode, the system may detect a variety of different control gestures that correspond to different tensioning commands.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 96

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The subject matter disclosed herein generally relates to footwear articles having electric laces and gesture control. and the like.

Background Art

[0002] Footwear articles have conventionally included an upper, a sole structure, and a lacing mechanism or other mechanism that can secure the footwear article in relation to the wearer's foot. Additionally, footwear articles include a sensor system. Such a sensor system [[ID=]17] collects performance data that can be accessed later for purposes such as analysis. Such analysis can provide information related to gait, cadence, distance, and jump characteristics, among other performance data. characteristics, among other performance data.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0003] [Figure 1] A side view of a shoe. [Figure 2] A side view of the shoe of FIG. 1 from the opposite side. [Figure 3] A plan perspective view of the sole of a shoe incorporating an embodiment of a sensor system according to an aspect of the present invention (with the upper of the shoe removed and the foot contact member folded to the side). [Figure 4] A plan perspective view of the sole and sensor system of FIG. 3 with the foot contact member of the shoe removed and the electronic module removed. [Figure 5] A plan perspective view of the sole of FIG. 3 with the foot contact member of the shoe removed and without a sensor system. [Figure 6] A schematic diagram of an embodiment of an electronic module having the ability to be used with a sensor system in a communication state with an external electronic device. [Figure 7]This is a plan view of the sensor system insert shown in Figure 3, which is adapted to be positioned within the sole structure of a footwear item for the user's right foot. [Figure 8] Figure 7 is a planar perspective view of the insert. [Figure 9] This is a plan view of the sensor system in Figure 3, including the insert in Figure 7. [Figure 10] Figure 9 is a plan perspective view of the sensor system. [Figure 11] Figure 9 is an enlarged plan view of a portion of the sensor system. [Figure 12] Figure 9 is a plan view of the sensor system and a similar sensor system adapted for use within the sole structure of a footwear item for the user's left foot. [Figure 13] Figure 7 is an exploded perspective view of the insert, showing four different layers. [Figure 14] Figure 13 is a plan view of the first layer of the insert. [Figure 15] This is an enlarged plan view of a portion of the first layer shown in Figure 14. [Figure 16] Figure 13 is a plan view of the second layer of the insert. [Figure 17] This is an enlarged plan view of a portion of the second layer shown in Figure 16. [Figure 18] Figure 13 is a plan view of the spacer layer of the insert. [Figure 19] Figure 13 is a plan view of the bottom layer of the insert. [Figure 20] Figure 9 is a schematic circuit diagram showing one embodiment of the circuit formed by the components of the sensor system. [Figure 21] This is an enlarged cross-sectional view schematically showing the area indicated by line 21-21 in Figure 11. [Figure 22A] Figure 9 is a bottom view of the sensor system. [Figure 22B] Figure 22A is a bottom view of the sensor system, which has a filter connected at the top of the vent of the sensor system. [Figure 22C]A plan view of a spacer layer of another embodiment of an insert for a sensor system according to an aspect of the present invention, having a dashed line indicating the position of the sensor. [Figure 22D] A bottom view of an insert for a sensor system incorporating the spacer layer of FIG. 22C, having a dashed line indicating the position of a filter connected to the insert. [Figure 23] A schematic diagram of the electronic module of FIG. 6 in a communication state with an external game device. [Figure 24] A schematic diagram of a pair of shoes each including a sensor system in a mesh communication mode with an external device. [Figure 25] A schematic diagram of a pair of shoes each including a sensor system in a "daisy chain" communication mode with an external device. [Figure 26] A schematic diagram of a pair of shoes each including a sensor system in an independent communication mode with an external device. [Figure 27] A plot showing the pressure versus resistance value in one embodiment of a sensor according to an aspect of the present invention. <0​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​This is a plan perspective view of the sole of a shoe incorporating another embodiment of the sensor system according to an aspect of the present invention (with the upper of the shoe removed and the foot contact member folded to the side). [Figure 37] Figure 36 is a planar perspective view of the sole of a foot with the foot contact members of the shoe removed and without the sensor system. [Figure 38] Figure 36 is a plan perspective view of the sole and sensor system with the foot contact material of the shoe removed and the electronic module removed. [Figure 39] This is a plan view of the sensor system insert shown in Figure 36, which is adapted to be positioned within the sole structure of a footwear item for the user's right foot. [Figure 40] Figure 39 is a plan view of the first layer of the insert. [Figure 41] Figure 39 is a plan view of the second layer of the insert. [Figure 42] Figure 39 is a plan view of the spacer layer of the insert. [Figure 43] Figure 39 is a plan view of the bottom layer of the insert. [Figure 44] Figure 39 is an exploded perspective view of the insert, showing four different layers. [Figure 45] This is a plan perspective view of the sole of a shoe incorporating another embodiment of the sensor system according to an aspect of the present invention (with the upper of the shoe removed and the foot contact member folded to the side). [Figure 46] Figure 45 is a planar perspective view of the sole of a foot with the foot contact material of the shoe removed and without the sensor system. [Figure 47] Figure 45 is a plan perspective view of the sole and sensor system with the foot contact material of the shoe removed and the electronic module removed. [Figure 48] This is a plan view of another embodiment of an insert for a sensor system adapted to be positioned within the sole structure of a footwear article for a user's right foot according to an aspect of the present invention. [Figure 49] Figure 48 is a plan view of the first layer of the insert. [Figure 50] Figure 48 is a plan view of the spacer layer of the insert. [Figure 51] Figure 48 is a plan view of the second layer of the insert. [Figure 52] This is a plan view of another embodiment of an insert for a sensor system according to an aspect of the present invention. [Figure 53] Figure 52 is a plan view of the first layer of the insert. [Figure 54] Figure 52 is a plan view of the spacer layer of the insert. [Figure 55] Figure 52 is a plan view of the second layer of the insert. [Figure 56] This is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 56-56 in Figure 52. [Figure 57] This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing one embodiment of a method and apparatus for forming a recess in the sole structure of a footwear article according to an aspect of the present invention. [Figure 58] This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the sole structure of the footwear item in Figure 57, with the sensor system insert member and foot contact member connected. [Figure 59] This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing another embodiment of a sensor system positioned within the sole structure of a footwear article according to an aspect of the present invention. [Figure 59A] This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing another embodiment of a sensor system positioned within the sole structure of a footwear article according to an aspect of the present invention. [Figure 60] This is a perspective view of one embodiment of a foot contact member configured for use in conjunction with a sensor system according to an aspect of the present invention. [Figure 61] This is a perspective view of another embodiment of the sensor system according to an aspect of the present invention. [Figure 62] The plan view and perspective view of a port within an insert member according to an aspect of the present invention are shown. [Figure 63-64] The plan view and perspective view of a port within an insert member according to an aspect of the present invention are shown. [Figure 65-67]This shows the components of the port housing. [Figures 68-69] This diagram shows the interface assembly used within a port. [Figure 70-71] This diagram shows the interface assembly used within a port. [Figure 72-73] The diagram shows an interface assembly that is movably connected to an insert member. [Figure 74] This is a partially enlarged plan view of the port in a state where it is connected to the insert member and the cover member has been removed. [Figures 75-76] This is a side view of a port mounted on an insert component. [Figures 77-78] This is a further diagram of a module according to an aspect of the present invention. [Figure 79] This is a perspective view of a contact and module carrier according to an aspect of the present invention. [Figure 80] This is a perspective view of a contact and module carrier according to an aspect of the present invention. [Figures 81-83] This is a perspective view of the module's components. [Figure 84] This is a partial cross-sectional view showing the overmolding of the contacts of the module interface. [Figure 85-86] This is a plan view of a module showing a lighting assembly according to an aspect of the present invention. [Figures 87-88] This is an internal diagram of a module showing the components of a lighting assembly. [Figures 89-90] This is an internal diagram of a module showing the components of a lighting assembly. [Figures 91-92] This is a diagram showing a module according to an embodiment of the present invention, along with a related PCB and ground surface extender. [Figures 93-94] This is a diagram showing a module according to an embodiment of the present invention, along with a related PCB and ground surface extender. [Figure 95] A schematic diagram of various gestures that can be performed using one or a pair of articles, according to one embodiment, is shown. [Figure 96]This is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of a footwear article, which includes a sensor and a tension adjustment system having a tension adjustment device. [Figure 97] This is a schematic diagram of some components of a tension adjustment device according to one embodiment. [Figure 98] This is a schematic diagram of a method for operating a tension adjustment device based on gesture-based input, according to one embodiment. [Figure 99] This is a schematic diagram of a method for operating a tension adjustment device based on gesture-based input, according to one embodiment. [Figure 100] This is a schematic diagram illustrating the correspondence between various gestures and various commands for a tension adjustment system, according to one embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0004] The embodiments can be further understood by referring to the following drawings and descriptions. This is possible. The components in the diagram are not necessarily scaled accurately, and instead, they are implemented. Emphasis is placed on illustrating the principles of form. Furthermore, the same reference numeral is used in these figures. The numbers indicate corresponding parts throughout the entirety of different diagrams.

[0005] Exemplary methods and systems include a motorized lacing system and a footwear with gesture control. It applies to item A. The example is merely representative of possible variations. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, components and functions are optional and They may be combined, or parts may be separated, and the operation may also be sequential The elements may be changed, or combined, or partially divided. Good. The following description aims to provide a full understanding of the illustrative embodiments for illustrative purposes. Numerous specific details are described to that end. However, to those skilled in the art, this subject matter is... It is clear that this can be done without any or all of these specific details. That's how it will be.

[0006] Conventionally, the tightening mechanism and other fastening mechanisms were designed so that the user could manually apply tension. A fastening cord or other fastening mechanism is arranged in the and then, for example, the fastening cord It operates by being secured, such as by tying a knot. The tightening cord is positioned under tension. An electric tie-down system has been developed that provides a motor for securing the tie-down, and It is built into the footwear item. In such a system, the motor is The user interacts with an interface, such as a button, or It can be activated by a sensor that detects the presence of a foot inside the footwear.

[0007] However, such systems depend on the type of sensor used to detect the wearer's activity. It does not depend on [something]. Furthermore, such sensors also respond to gestures made by the wearer. It does not have sensitivity. Therefore, it cannot detect that a foot is inside the footwear item. The sensor, for example, responds to intentional commands from the user to tighten or loosen a drawstring. It cannot be sensitive to the corresponding gesture.

[0008] A system that uses activity sensors to detect gestures made by the wearer of footwear. A sensor system is being developed. Such gestures include heel clicks and toe taps. Furthermore, an article of one footwear may cause the heel or forefoot of the other footwear to be damaged. This may include physical contact. The movement may be misinterpreted as a gesture corresponding to a command. To reduce the difficulty, the system places the system in "enabled" mode with the first gesture. Furthermore, the second gesture received while in active mode is a command gesture and Multiple stages can be utilized, allowing for interpretation in various ways.

[0009] Figures 1 and 2 show footwear such as shoes as examples, and this represents the overall picture. And it is denoted by reference numeral 100. Footwear 100 is, for example, various types It can have many different forms, including Ip athletic shoes. In one exemplary embodiment... In general, the shoe 100 is operably connected to the universal communication port 14. and / or pressure sensor system 12. As will be described in more detail below, sensor system 1 Section 2 collects performance data related to the wearer of shoe 100. Universal communication port Through connections to 14, multiple different users can use various different methods, which will be described in more detail later. For usage purposes, performance data can be accessed.

[0010] Footwear item 100, in Figures 1 and 2, consists of an upper 120 and a sole structure 130. It is indicated as including the following. For reference purposes in the following explanation, footway A100 consists of the forefoot region 111, the midfoot region 112, and the heel region, as shown in Figure 1. It can be divided into three comprehensive domains: 111, 113, and 111. Domains 111-113 are Foot It is not intended to precisely define the boundaries of the Toware 100 area. Rather, Areas 111-113 provide the framework for the footwear 100 described below. This is intended to represent the target area. Areas 111-113 are generally footwear 1 This applies to 00, but references to regions 111-113 are specifically in Table 12. This applies to 0, to the sole structure 130, or to the upper 120 or the sole structure 130. For individual components that are made up and / or formed as part thereof However, it may still apply.

[0011] As further shown in Figures 1 and 2, the upper part 120 is fixed to the sole structure 130. Furthermore, it defines a cavity or chamber for receiving the foot. For reference, see the top of the foot. 120 consists of the lateral side portion 121, the intermediate side portions 122 on both sides, and the toenail or instep area 123. Includes. The lateral side portion 121 extends along the lateral side of the foot (i.e., on the outside). They are positioned accordingly and generally pass through regions 111-113, respectively. The intermediate lateral portion 122 extends along the intermediate lateral portions on both sides of the foot (i.e., on the medial side). It is positioned accordingly and generally passes through each of regions 111-113. The leather area 123 is positioned so as to correspond to the upper surface of the foot or the instep area, with the lateral side portion 121 and It is positioned between the intermediate side portions 122. The nail leather area 123 is in this illustrated example. In this case, by changing the dimensions of the upper part 120 in relation to the foot, footwear 1 To adjust the fit of 00, a conventional method is used, such as a tightening cord 125 or It includes a throat 124 having another desirable closure mechanism. 0 also includes an ankle opening 126 that provides the foot with access to the cavity within the upper part 120. To construct the upper part 120, the materials conventionally used within the footwear upper Various materials including can be used. Therefore, the upper 120 can be, for example, leather, synthetic. Leather, natural or synthetic fabrics, polymer sheets, polymer foams, mesh textiles, f It can be formed from one or more parts of a felt, nonwoven polymer, or rubber material. The surface 120 can be formed from one or more of these materials, but in this case In some cases, the material or a part thereof is, for example, conventionally known in the art and Depending on the method used, they may be sutured together or bonded together with adhesive.

[0012] Furthermore, the upper 120 has a heel element (not shown) and a toe element (not shown) , may also include. The heel element, when present, improves the comfort of the footwear. Furthermore, within the heel region 113, it extends upward and along the inner surface of the upper part 120. It is possible. The toe element, when present, provides wear resistance to the wearer's toenails. In order to protect the toes and to assist in the positioning of the feet, within the forefoot region 111, In some embodiments, it can be arranged on the outer surface of the top 120. In this case, one or both of the heel element and the toe element may not be present, or, The heel element may be positioned, for example, on the outer surface of the upper 120. The structure of the upper part 120 is suitable for footwear 100, but the upper part 120 deviates from the present invention. Without doing so, it is also possible to have any desired conventional or non-conventional surface structure configuration. can.

[0013] As shown in Figure 3, the plantar structure 130 is fixed to the lower surface of the upper part 120. It is and can have a conventional shape overall. The sole structure 130 is, for example For example, a midsole 131, an outsole 132, and a foot contact member 133, etc. Thus, it can have a multi-piece structure. The foot contact member 133 is typically a footwear To improve the comfort of the Chair 100, within the cavity in the upper part 120, and on the lower surface of the foot In a state adjacent to the surface (or between the upper 120 and the midsole 131), It is a thin, compressible member that can be positioned. In various embodiments, the foot joint The contact member 133 is an insole, strobe, insole component, bootie element, sock, etc. This may also be the case. In the embodiments shown in Figures 3 to 5, the foot contact member 133 is in the insole. It is a foot contact member or insole. The term "foot contact member" as used in this specification. Because other factors may prevent direct contact, direct contact between the user's feet is not necessarily possible. This does not mean contact. Rather, the foot contact member is for receiving the foot of the footwear article. It forms part of the inner surface of the chamber. For example, the user prevents direct contact. Socks can be worn. Another example is the external bootie element. A device that slides on shoes or other footwear items such as shoe covers. The completed sensor system 12 may be embedded in the footwear item. In this product, although it does not directly come into contact with the user's feet, the upper part of the sole structure is... It can be considered a contact element. In some configurations, an insole or insert exists. It is not necessary for it to be present, and in other embodiments, the footwear 100 is The insole or insert may have a foot contact member positioned on the upper part of the insole.

[0014] The midsole member 131 may be an impact-absorbing member, or may include one. Furthermore, in some embodiments, multiple members or elements may be included. Example For example, the midsole component 131 is on the ground during walking, running, jumping, or other activities. Polyurethane, ethyl vinyl, etc., which are compressed to dampen the reaction force of other contact surfaces. Luacetate, or (such as phylon or phylite) It can be formed from polymer foam materials, such as other materials (like the one shown). In some illustrative structures, the polymer foam material is used in footwear 100. To improve comfort, motion control, stability, and / or reaction force damping characteristics of the ground or other contact surface. To improve, various elements such as a bladder or moderator filled with fluid are encapsulated. or may include. In other exemplary structures, the midsole 131 is It may include further elements that are compressed to dampen the reaction force of the ground or other contact surface. Yes, it is possible. For example, the midsole 131 is designed to support the cushioning and absorption of force, with columnar ties It can include elements of "P".

[0015] The outsole 132 in the illustrated example footwear structure 100 is It is fixed to the lower surface of the dosole 131, and when walking or other activities, it touches the ground or... Wear and tear on other surfaces, such as rubber or flexible synthetic materials like polyurethane. It is made from a durable material. The material forming the outsole 132 has improved traction and It can be manufactured from appropriate materials to provide slip resistance and / or technology It is also possible to add a stiffener. The outsole 132 shown in Figures 1 and 2 is The outsole 132 includes a plurality of notches or grooves 136 on one or both sides. As shown, many have various types of treads, shapes, or other structures. Other types of outsoles 132 can be used in connection with the present invention. Embodiments of the present invention are not limited to shoes of other types and configurations, but also to other types of footwear. Please understand that this can be used in relation to apparel and foot structure.

[0016] Figures 1 to 5 show examples of footwear 100 incorporating the sensor system 12 according to the present invention. The following embodiments are shown, and Figures 3 to 22B illustrate the sensor system 12. The installation configuration is shown. The sensor system 12 is connected to the force and / or pressure sensor assembly 13. It includes an insert member 37. The insert member 37 is a foot It is configured to be positioned in contact with the foot sole structure 130 of the chair 100, and In one embodiment, the insert member 37 is located below the foot contact member 133, and Furthermore, above the midsole member 131, and in an overall opposing relationship, position determination It is configured to be used. The sensor assembly 13 has multiple sensors 16 and (for example, Communication or output port in communication state with sensor assembly 13 (electrically connected via a conductor) Port 14 includes, as will be described later, (also called the electronic control unit) The electronic module 22 and the like are configured to transmit the data received from the sensor 16. Port 14 and / or module 22 are also described below. As shown in Figures 3 to 5, it can be configured to communicate with external devices. In the application configuration, system 12 is located in the big toe (first phalanx or first toe) area of ​​the shoe. First sensor 16a, second sensor 16b in the first metatarsal bone region, and fifth metatarsal bone region Two sensors 16b~c in the forefoot area of ​​the shoe, including a third sensor 16c in the region, In addition, it has four sensors 16, including a fourth sensor 16d in the heel. The rear typically experiences the greatest pressure during movement. Each sensor 16 is a sensor The sensor is configured to detect the pressure applied by the user's foot to the 16th sensor. It communicates with port 14 through sensor lead 18, and sensor lead 18 is a wire lead And / or another conductor or suitable communication medium. For example, the embodiments shown in Figures 3 to 5. In this state, the sensor lead 18 is coated with silver-based ink, or copper and / or tin-based ink. Printing of metallic inks, other metallic inks, etc., on the insert member 37 It may be a conductive medium. Alternatively, in one embodiment, the lead 18 is It may be supplied as a thin wire. In other embodiments, lead 18 is Contact with the foot contact member 133, the midsole member 131, or another member of the sole structure 130 It can be continued.

[0017] Other embodiments of the sensor system 12 include sensors 16 of a different number or configuration. It may also be possible, and generally, it may include at least one sensor 16. For example, In one embodiment, system 12 includes a significantly larger number of sensors, and In another embodiment, the system 12 includes one in the heel of the shoe 100 and one in the forefoot, It includes two sensors. Furthermore, sensor 16 uses Bluetooth and short-range communication. Port 14, by different means, including any known type of wired or wireless communication. It can communicate with. A pair of shoes has sensors inside each shoe of the pair. A stem 12 may be provided, and a pair of shoe sensor systems may be provided in a synergistic manner. They may operate by one another, or they may operate independently of each other, and each shoe The internal sensor systems understand that they may or may not communicate with each other. Please do so. Further details regarding the communication of sensor system 12 will be described later. Sensor system 12 (For example, pressure from the interaction of the user's foot with the ground or other contact surface) To control the collection and storage of data (such as data), a computer program / algorithm A program / algorithm may be provided, and these programs / algorithms are for sensor 16, mo It may be stored in Joule 22 and / or in external device 110, and / or It should be understood that they may be carried out by others.

[0018] The sensor system 12 is located within the sole 130 of the shoe 100 in several configurations. It can be positioned. In the example shown in Figures 3 to 5, port 14, sensor 16 and lead 18 insert member 37 between midsole 131 and foot contact member 133 By positioning between them, etc., the midsole 131 and the foot contact member 133 It can be positioned by moving it. In one embodiment, the insert member 37 is a midsole It can be connected to one or both of the rod and the foot contact member 133, as described later. In one embodiment, a hole or well 1 is provided to receive the electronic module 22. 35 is arranged within the midsole 131 (Figure 5) and / or within the foot contact member 133. It is possible to place it there, and port 14 is accessible from within recess 135. This is also good. The recess 135 can further accommodate the housing 24 for module 22. In addition, the housing 24 provides physical space for port 14 and / or port 14 By providing hardware for interconnection between port 1 and module 22, It can be configured for connection to 4. In the embodiment shown in Figure 5, The recess 135 is formed by a hole in the upper main surface of the midsole 131. Figure 5 As shown, the sole structure 130 is designed to receive the housing 24 inside It may also include a compressible sole member 138 having a hole formed in the recess 1 It provides access to 35 and / or is considered to be part of recess 135 It may be done. The insert 37 is positioned to place the housing 24 within the recess 135. It can be positioned on the upper part of the compressible sole member 138. Compressible sole member 1 In one embodiment, 38 may be facing the midsole 131, and also It may be in direct contact with the sole 131. The compressible sole member 138 is Compressible sole members 138 and midsole 13, such as strobel members. With one or more further structures positioned between 1, the midsole 131 It should be understood that this can be opposed. In the embodiments shown in Figures 3 to 5, the compressible sole Material 138 is placed between the foot contact member 133 and the midsole 131 (for example, EVA It has the form of a foamed member 138 (such as a component), which in this embodiment is It can be considered as the lower insole / insole. The foam member 138 is one embodiment In terms of form, the use of adhesive etc. results in the midsole 131 strobel 133A ( It can be joined to Figure 58) and cover all seams on the strobe. This allows for the prevention of wear on the insert 37 due to the seams. (Figure 58) This configuration is schematically shown in Figures 3 to 5. The housing 24 has a plurality of walls, including side walls 25 and base walls 26, and the side walls 25 A flat extending outward from the top and configured for connection to insert 37. This also includes a flange or lip 28. In one embodiment, the flange 28 has a hole 27 A peg connected through a hole 28B in an insert 37 positioned at the front end. A separate tab (tub) 29 is connected via 28A to form the housing 24. It is a component of the peg 28A. The peg 28A may be connected via ultrasonic welding or other techniques. Furthermore, in one embodiment, it may be received in a container. Specific alternative implementations In this configuration, the footwear article 100 has a tab formed within the sole structure 130. The flange 28 may be manufactured to have 29, and optionally the port It can be connected later using snap connections or similar methods after the other parts have been assembled. The housing 24 is designed to hold the module 22 within the housing 24. The structure may include tabs / flanges and slots. Complementary retaining structures on module 22, such as tabs, locking members, and friction fitting members. They may also be in a similar relationship. Furthermore, the housing 24 is located within the flange 28 and / or tab 29. This also includes a finger recess 29A positioned in the housing 24 There is room for the user's finger to engage with module 22 in order to remove module 22. The flange 28 provides a wide base that engages with the top of the insert 37. As a result, the flange 28 contacts the insert 37 and / or the foot contact member 133 The force acting on it is diffused, which causes serious deflection of such components. The likelihood of damage is reduced. Also, the rounded corners on flange 28 are reduced by insert 3 The flange 28 helps to avoid damage to the 7 and / or foot contact member 133. In other embodiments, it may have different shapes and / or external forms. It should be understood that it is possible to provide similar functions having a similar shape and / or external form.

[0019] The foot contact member 133 is positioned on top of the foam member 138 to cover the insert 37. It is configured to be placed there, and as shown in Figure 3, for housing 24 A recess 134 may be included within its lower main surface to provide space. Foot contact Member 133 may be bonded to the foam member 138, and in one embodiment, As shown in Figure 3, in order to access module 22, the foot contact member 133 To allow for lifting, it may be glued only within the forefoot area. In addition to this, The foot contact member 133 is made of a silicone material, insert 37 and / or foam member 1 To resist slippage between 38 and the surface, adhesive or This may include high-friction materials (not shown). For example, (e.g., as shown in Figure 3) The foot contact member 133 is bonded within the forefoot region, and in the heel region In one embodiment, the foot contact member 133 is positioned on the heel area. It can have an adhesive material. In addition, the adhesive material prevents dust from entering the sensor system. An improved seal can also be provided to resist it. In another embodiment, Figure As shown in 60, the foot contact member 133 is positioned on the port 14. The module 22 is configured such that insertion and / or removal of the module 22 is made through the foot contact member 133. It may include a door or hatch 137, sized to accommodate this. (See Figure 60) The embodiment of the foot contact member 133 shown is an a for contact with port 14 and module 22. To provide access, instead of the foot contact member 133 in Figure 3, Figure 36, or Figure 45 It may be usable. In the embodiment shown in Figure 60, the door 137 is The door 137 has a hinge 137A formed by attaching material along one edge of the door 137. This allows the door 137 to open and close by swinging. In addition to this, In this embodiment, the door 137 is enclosed by the large portion of the cushioning To prevent loss, it is formed from the same material as the foot contact member 133. Furthermore, The door 137 has tabs 137B to assist the user in gripping and operating the door 137. Alternatively, it may have other structures. In one embodiment, the sensor system 12 is The foot contact member 133 may be positioned on the back surface, and the door 137 is (Figure Such embodiments (not shown) provide access to port 14. It is possible. In another embodiment, the door 137 is hinged on another edge. It may have a mechanism, or it may be opened by a different method, such as removal or sliding. In addition, in one embodiment, the foot contact member 133 is, as will be described later, located on its upper part. It can also have a graphic indicia 92.

[0020] In one embodiment, as shown in Figures 3 to 5 and Figure 7, the foam member 1 38 is designed to receive the insert 37 inside, and has the same circumference as the insert 37. It may include a recess 139 having an edge shape, and the bottom layer 69 of the insert member 37 (Figure 13) includes an adhesive support to hold the insert 37 within the recess 139. This can be achieved. In one embodiment, for this purpose, a rapid bonding acrylic adhesive such as A relatively strong adhesive can be used. Insert 37 connects to the housing 24. It has a hole or space 27 for receiving and providing room for this purpose. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the foam member 138 is such that the housing 24 has a strobe and and / or pass completely through the midsole 131 and / or through at least a portion thereof It is also permissible to exceed the limit. In the embodiments shown in Figures 3 to 5, the feet The contact member 133 is in relation to general foot contact members 133 (such as insoles). It may have a reduced thickness, in which case the thickness of the foam member 138 is equivalent to In order to provide cushioning, this is substantially equivalent to reducing the thickness of the foot contact member 133. In one embodiment Furthermore, the foot contact member 133 may be an insole having a thickness of approximately 2 to 3 mm, and The foam member 138 may have a thickness of about 2 mm, in which case the recess 139 is , has a depth of approximately 1 mm. In one embodiment, the foam member 138 is the foam member 1 Before connecting 38 to the footwear item 100, it is bonded to the insert member 37. This is possible. In this configuration, the adhesive between the foam member 138 and the insert 37 is normally The foam member 138 may be bent or curved, or otherwise peel off. Before attaching the foam material to the trobel or other parts of the footwear 100, flat It allows hardening in that state. In one embodiment, the adhesively attached The foam member 138 having insert 37, in this configuration, is part of the footwear article 10 It can be provided as a single product for insertion into 0. Port 14 in Figures 3-5 Positioning is designed to minimize contact, irritation, or other interference between the user's foot and the device. In addition to demonstrating, it also provides easy access by simply lifting the foot contact member 133. They also offer it.

[0021] In the embodiments shown in Figures 3 to 5, the housing 24 comprises the insert 37 and the foam member. 138 extends throughout the entire length, and the recess 135 is also schematically shown in Figure 58. In order to accept the housing 24, the strobe 133A is fully inserted, and , partially extending within the midsole 131 of the footwear 100. Another embodiment In this case, the recess 135 may be constructed in a different manner, and one embodiment In this configuration, the window through the strobe 133A is recessed into module 22 135 With access to it permitted, completely below the strobe 133A The recess 135 is located for the strobe 133A and / or midsaw. Cutting or removing material from Ru 131, and the stro containing the recess inside Forming the bell 133A and / or midsole 131, or other techniques or By using a variety of techniques, including combinations of these techniques, it can be formed. In one embodiment, as schematically shown in Figure 57, the strobe 133A Through this process, and within the midsole 131, a recess is created by cutting and removing material fragments 135A. A hot knife 109 is used to form 135. In terms of form, the hot knife 109 removes not only the fragment 135A to be removed, but also fragment 1 A hole 109B is defined to receive a projection 109C that extends downward through the middle of 35A. The hot knife 109 includes a wall 109A that extends around the hot knife 109. To cut the outer boundary of the fragment 135A to be removed, the strobel 133A and mid Cut downwards within the sole 131. The protrusions 109C are all designed to facilitate removal. The bottom side of fragment 135A is weakened, and furthermore, the fragment in hole 109B during removal It assists in retaining 135A, and therefore the hot knife moves away from the plantar structure 130. Fragment 135A can be removed by simply lifting 109. In this configuration, the hot knife 109 can be heated to a temperature of 250-260°C. In other embodiments, a hot knife 10 (which may be configured in a different manner) 9 is a recess 1 formed and / or constructed by different methods within the sole structure 130 It can be used to form 35. Figure 58 shows the connection to the sole structure 130. The insert 37 and the housing 24 received in the recess 135 after formation are roughly This is a simplified representation. As shown in Figure 58, the housing 24 is connected to the wall of the recess 135 and It fits tightly, and this is because there is no gap between the housing 24 and the recess 135 that could cause material damage. It can be advantageous because it can be harmful. The process of removing fragment 135 is appropriate. Automation can be achieved by using computer-controlled equipment.

[0022] In a further embodiment, the recess 135 is located somewhere else within the sole structure 130. It can be arranged in such a way. For example, the recess 135 is located within the upper main surface of the foot contact member 133. They may be positioned as follows, and the insert 37 is positioned on the upper part of the foot contact member 133. It is possible. As another example, the recess 135 is located within the lower main surface of the foot contact member 133. They may be positioned as follows, in which case the insert 37 is connected to the foot contact member 133 and the midsaw It is positioned between the 131. In a further example, the recess 135 is inside the outsole 132. They may be positioned in such a way, and through the side, bottom, or heel opening of the sole 130. Furthermore, it may be accessible from the outside of the shoe 100. Configurations shown in Figures 3 to 5. In this case, as will be described later, port 14 is used for connecting or disconnecting the electronic module 22. Therefore, it is easily accessible. In the embodiment shown in Figure 59, the foot contact portion Material 133 has an insert 37 connected to its lower surface, and also has a port 14 and The recess 135 is similar to the above-mentioned and identical configuration shown in Figure 58, etc., in the plantar structure It is formed within the structure 130. Interface 20 is related to other embodiments. Positioned on the side of the housing 24, as shown in the section. However, interface 20 is used for engagement through the top of module 22, etc. Please understand that it may be positioned in a different location. Module 22 is in this way It can be modified to accommodate such changes. In this embodiment, the foot contact part Material 133 has an opening for accessing module 22 (as shown in Figure 60) It may be provided, or, as shown in Figure 3, access to module 22. It may be possible to lift it up in order to do so. In the embodiment shown in Figure 59A, The insert 37 is located below both the foot contact member 133 and the strobe 133A, and In this embodiment, it is positioned in contact with the midsole member 131. In this case, the strobe 133A and / or foot contact member 133 are active to module 22. An opening for access may be provided, and / or this is shown in Figure 3. To that end, it may be possible to pull up module 22 in order to access it.

[0023] In other embodiments, the sensor system 12 is positioned by a different method. This is possible. For example, in one embodiment, the insert 37 is located on the outsole 13 2. It can be positioned within the midsole 131 or the foot contact member 133. In one exemplary embodiment, the insert 37 is a sock, insole, or inner footwear bag. A tee or other similar article positioned above the insole component It may be positioned within the foot contact member 133, or the foot contact member 133 and the insole It may be positioned between the ring members. Furthermore, other configurations are also possible, and Some other examples of configurations will be discussed later. As described, the sensor system Please understand that Mu12 can be included in each shoe of a pair of shoes.

[0024] The insert member 37 in the embodiment shown in Figures 3 to 22B is at least the It is formed from multiple layers, including the first layer 66 and the second layer 68. 8 refers to Mylar® or other PET (polyethylene terephthalate) thin films. Formed from flexible thin film materials such as polyamide, or from other polymer thin films. This is possible. In one embodiment, the first and second layers 66 and 68 are each 12 A PET thin film with a thickness of 0.05 to 0.2 mm, such as a thickness of 5 μm, may also be used. In addition, in one embodiment, each of the first and second layers 66 and 68 is 2 mm The following minimum bending radius is observed. The insert 37 is located between the first and second layers 66, 68. The spacer layer 67 is positioned, and / or below the second layer 68, It may further include a bottom layer 69 positioned on the bottom of T37, and these may be The embodiments shown in Figures 3 to 22B include layers 66, 67 of insert 37. 68 and 69 are stacked on top of each other, and are in a relationship where they face each other, and are a single unit. In terms of application form, layers 66, 67, 68, and 69 all have similar or identical peripheral shapes. They are present and are superimposed on each other vertically (Figure 13). In one embodiment, spacers Layer 67 and bottom layer 69 have thicknesses of 89 to 111 μm, such as 100 μm. It can have the following. The overall thickness of the insert member 37 is, in one embodiment, about 4 It may be 50 μm, or in another embodiment, about 428-472 μm. It may also be approximately 278 to 622 μm, and in further embodiments, it may be approximately 278 to 622 μm. Furthermore, insert 37 may contain additional adhesive with a thickness of 100-225 μm. Furthermore, in other embodiments, one or more selective layers, such as a further PET layer It may further include a reinforcing layer. In addition, in one embodiment, the above-mentioned four layers The entire insert has a minimum bending radius of 5 mm or less. The direction of the first and second layers 66, 68 In another embodiment, the second layer 68 is arranged as the uppermost layer, and the first layer 66 Please understand that this can be reversed by, for example, placing it below the second layer 68. (See diagram) In the embodiment shown in Figures 3-22B, the first and second layers 66 and 68 are the sensor 16 and the lead 18. Resistors 53, 54, path 50, dielectric patch 80, and other components It includes various circuits and other components printed on its top surface. These will be discussed in more detail later. These components are shown in Figures 3 to 22B. In this embodiment, on the back surface of the first layer 66 and on the upper surface of the second layer 68 It is printed, but in other embodiments, at least some components The print may be printed on the opposite sides of the first and second layers 66 and 68. And / or components located on the second layer 68 are located on the other layers 66, 68. It should be understood that they may be moved / replaced. In one embodiment, the components are not necessary By limiting the total number of required printer paths, on layers 66 and 68 They may be printed, and in one embodiment, all components on each layer 66, 68 The porn can be printed in a single pass.

[0025] In one embodiment, layers 66, 67, 68, and 69 are bonded to an adhesive or other bonding material. Therefore, they can be connected together. In one embodiment, the spacer layer 67 is the first and The second layer 66, 68 is connected to one or both of its surfaces by including an adhesive. This is possible. Similarly, the bottom layer 69 also contains not only the second layer 68 but also the footwear 100 items. In addition, adhesive can be applied to one or more surfaces for connection. In addition to, or instead of, the first or second layer 66, 68 is an adhesive for this purpose. It may also have a surface. In other embodiments, layers 66, 67, 68, 69 Various other techniques such as heat sealing, spot welding, or other known techniques are used to connect them. The law can be used.

[0026] Also, insert 37, foot contact member 133, and / or sensor system 12 and foot Other components of the Air 100 are located on its upper part, including (not shown) glass It may include a fixed composition or other indices. The graphic composition is the first By overlaying a graphics layer on top of layer 66, etc., insert 37 Provided on one or more connected graphics layers (not shown) This is possible. The graphic configuration is supported by the sensor assembly 13, the lead 18, and the layer. It can accommodate various other components. For example, in the embodiment shown in Figure 60 In this case, the foot contact member 133 is positioned below the foot contact member 133. Graphical Indicator 9 forms the graphical depiction of insert 37 of stem 12. It has 2. In other embodiments, for reference, stylistic and other such Other graphical configurations, including the "eel" configuration, can be used.

[0027] The insert 37 shown in Figures 3 to 22B is fewer than the other insert configurations. It has a configuration that can utilize various materials, and the relative resistance to fracture at common stress points It can provide great resistance. In this embodiment, the insert 37 is Extra areas such as the lateral forefoot area or the lateral and intermediate heel area. It has several parts of material cut from the area of ​​SART 37. The insert 37 has a midfoot portion configured to engage with the midfoot region of the user's foot. 37A and the front, configured to engage with the forefoot (i.e., midfoot) region of the user's foot. It has a foot portion 37B and, in this case, the heel region and the first phalanx region of the user's foot, respectively. In a state configured to be engaged by, the heel portion 37C is connected to the midfoot portion 37A It extends backward, and the first phalanx portion 37D extends forward from the forefoot portion. Figures 4, 8, 10, and 22A illustrate these features in more detail. Depending on the shape of the foot, the first phalanx portion 37D can engage only with the first phalanx region of the user's foot. Please understand that in this embodiment, the first phalanx portion 37D and the heel portion 37C are By using a long, elongated design, the entire structure is formed from the base of the wide midfoot and forefoot sections 37A-B. The forefoot is configured to be a peninsula extending forward or backward to the end, respectively. The width of section 37B is greater than the width of the midfoot section 37A, and the midfoot and forefoot sections 37A-B Both of these have a width greater than the first phalanx portion 37D and the heel portion 37C. The width of a portion of insert 37, as referenced, is measured from the middle to the side. Furthermore, the length is measured from front to back (from toe to heel). Figures 3-3 In embodiment 22B, the first phalanx portion 37D is engaged by the user's first phalanx. It has one of the sensors 16a positioned at its upper part, and the heel part Minute 37C is engaged by the user's heel, one of the sensors 16d on its upper part It has one of the sensors. The remaining two sensors 16b and 16c are the first and second sensors of the user's foot, respectively. The forefoot portion 37B of the insert 37 is engaged with the fifth metatarsal region. Specifically, in the region of the first metatarsal bone, and in the region of the fifth metatarsal bone The midfoot portion 37A is positioned to receive the housing 24 and module 22. It includes a hole 27 for, and the hole 27 is located between the forefoot portion 37B and the heel portion 37C Two strips 88 are defined that extend and connect these. In one embodiment, In this case, the strip 88 has a minimum width of 8 mm, or 3 mm of the total length of the insert 37. It has a width of 5%. In this use, the length of the insert 37 is the first phalanx The measurement is taken from the outermost part of the forefoot in section 37D to the outermost part of the heel in section 37C. These measures are taken from the outermost part of the heel in section 37D. Lip 88 experiences significant stress during use, and this width helps avoid obstacles during use. This supports the following. In other embodiments, the strip 88 is further structured It can be reinforced. For example, in one embodiment, strip 88 and / or in Other parts of SART 37 can be reinforced with fibers or similar structures. As another example, in one embodiment, the insert 37 completely surrounds the housing 24. And between both strips 88 and the rest of the strip 88 and insert 37 Further structural layers, such as additional structural layers, occupy the entire joint of insert 37. It can include at least a portion of it.

[0028] In the embodiments shown in Figures 3 to 22B, insert 37 is insert 3 Define the area around 7, and extend from the back of the heel portion 37C to the anterior end of the first phalanx portion 37D. The intermediate edge 85 extends along the mid-side of the heel 37, and the forefoot extends from behind the heel portion 37C. The lateral edge 86 extending to the front of portion 37B, and the second, third, and fourth of insert 37 and anteriorly extending from the lateral edge 86 to the first phalanx portion 37D along the fifth metatarsal area It has a peripheral edge including edge 87, an intermediate edge 85, a lateral edge 86, and a front edge 87. The edges 87 are as shown in Figures 8, 10, and 22A, respectively. In this embodiment, it has a cut-out portion. Cut-out portion 8 along the front edge 87 7A is located between the lateral edge 86 and the first phalanx portion (i.e., the peninsula portion) 37D. The cut portions 85A and 86A along the intermediate and lateral edges 85 and 86 are the forefoot portion 37 It is located near the joint between B and the midfoot portion 37A, and within the midfoot portion 37A The width W1 of the insert 37 (defined between the intermediate and lateral edges 85 and 86) The width W2 within the forefoot portion 37B is measured between the first and second cutouts 85A and 86A. The width of the insert is greater than W3. This configuration is for the midfoot portion 37A or the forefoot portion 37B. This creates a narrower neck 89 between the midfoot 37A and the forefoot 37B. Furthermore, the widths W1 and W2 of the midfoot portion 37A and the forefoot portion 37B were measured at the heel portion 37C. The width W4 is greater than the front foot portion 37B, and the front foot portion 37B has the maximum relative width W2. In the configuration, the heel portion 37C is connected to the insert member 37 from the midfoot portion 37A. The width increases towards the heel end, from the relatively forward part of the heel portion 37C It is also wide, including the widened tail section 37E.

[0029] The cut-out sections 85A, 86A, and 87A are each facing inward, inside the main body of insert 37. It extends and generally has a recessed and / or indented shape. (Figures 3-3) In the embodiment shown in 22B, each of the cut-off portions 85A, 86A, and 87A It has a smooth, concave, inwardly curved (having a curved) shape, This resists the propagation of tearing, rupture, or cracks within the insert 37. In this embodiment, In this case, each of the cut sections 85A, 86A, and 87A has an arc of at least 120°. It is defined, at least partially, by the concave curved edge that defines it. In addition to this, In one embodiment, at least one of the cut-off portions 85A, 86A, and 87A is , at least partially, by a concave curved edge that defines an arc of at least 180°. It is defined. As can be observed, for example, in Figures 8, 10, and 22A, At least the intermediate and lateral cut portions 85A and 86A are at least 180 It is defined, at least partially, by a concave curved edge that defines an arc of °. In addition, each of the cut-out portions 85A, 86A, and 87A in this embodiment is On the side, the outer circumference of the insert at the intermediate, lateral, and front edges 85, 86, and 87. The boundary is defined by a smoothly curved edge positioned on top. In this embodiment Smoothly curved lines define the boundaries of the cut portions 85A, 86A, and 87A in the cut section. One or both of the edges define an arc of at least 90°. In the use of cut-out portions 85A, 86A, and 87A having these configurations, For example, as described above, resist the propagation of tearing, fraying, or cracking within the insert 37. This increases the durability and lifespan of the insert 37. In this case, the cut portions 85A, 86A, and 87A are the ones where this damage resistance is most beneficial. It is positioned within the stress area. It is configured as shown in Figures 3 to 22B. The insert 37 is designed to withstand up to 20 MPa over at least 500,000 cycles. It can have sufficient fatigue resistance to withstand the stress.

[0030] In further embodiments, the insert 37 may have different cutouts. , and / or having cut portions in the same location, but with different shapes This is possible. For example, the insert 37' shown in Figures 22C to D is shown in Figures 3 to 22B. In comparison with insert 37, cut portions 85A, 86A, and 87A are located in similar places. In this case, the cut-out portions 85A, 86A, and 87A have slightly different peripheral shapes. It has the shape. In this embodiment, the intermediate cut portion 85A is the in in Figures 3 to 22B. In comparison with the intermediate cut portion 85A of SART 37, a small arc is defined overall. The front cut-out portion 87A of this embodiment is the front cut-out portion of the insert 37 in Figures 3 to 22B. In comparison with the cut portion 87A, it exhibits relatively poor symmetry and poor uniformity of curvature. It defines the shape.

[0031] Figures 36 to 47 show the sensor system 12 described above and also shown in Figures 3 to 22B. The inserts 437 and 537 have a different shape and configuration from insert 37. Further embodiments of sensor systems 412 and 512 are shown. The sensors in Figures 36-47. Systems 412 and 512 are common to the sensor system 12 shown in Figures 3 to 22B. It includes many structural and functional features. For example, sensor systems 412 and 512 are shown in Figure 3. ~A sensor 16 configured and positioned substantially similarly to the sensor system 12 in Figure 22B It includes and functions in a similar manner. Another example is sensor systems 412, 5 12 is similar to the sensor system 12 in Figures 3 to 22B, consisting of two fixed resistors 5 in parallel. Includes 3, 54 and the path 50 between layers 66 and 68. These and other common features Further explanation of this topic may be omitted here for the sake of brevity.

[0032] In the embodiments shown in Figures 36 to 44, insert 437 is the insert shown in Figures 3 to 22B. In comparison with part 37, it has cut portions 85A, 86A, and 87A in similar locations. In this case, the cut portions 85A, 86A, and 87A have slightly different peripheral shapes. In this embodiment, the intermediate cut portion 85A is the insert shown in Figures 3 to 22B. In comparison with the intermediate cut section 85A of 37, a relatively small arc is defined. The front cut-out portion 87A of the embodiment is the front cut-out portion of the insert 37 in Figures 3 to 22B. In comparison to 87A, it defines a relatively deeper and relatively larger arc. The lateral cut portion 86A of the embodiment is the lateral cut portion of insert 37 in Figures 3 to 22B. In comparison with section 86A, it defines a relatively shallow and relatively small arc. In addition, the insert 437 in Figures 36 to 44 has a heel portion with substantially constant width. It has a 37C section, but does not have a widened tail section 37E.

[0033] In the embodiments shown in Figures 45 to 47, insert 537 is the insert shown in Figures 3 to 22B. In comparison with part 37, it has cut-out sections 85A, 86A, and 87A in similar locations. In this case, the cut portions 85A, 86A, and 87A have slightly different peripheral shapes. In this embodiment, the intermediate cut portion 85A is the insert 3 shown in Figures 3 to 22B. In comparison with the intermediate cut section 85A of 7, a relatively small arc is defined. The lateral cut portion 86A of the embodiment is the lateral cut portion of insert 37 in Figures 3 to 22B. In comparison with section 86A, it defines a relatively shallow and relatively small arc. (Figure) The anterior edge 87 of insert 537 in Figures 45-48 extends from the first phalanx portion 37D to the fifth metatarsal bone. It has a stable angle toward the sensor 16C and is directly within the front cut-out portion 87A It defines an extended, substantially straight edge. The resulting front cut portion 8 7A is compared with the front cut-out portion 87A of insert 37 in Figures 3 to 22B. In contrast, it defines a small arc. In addition to this, insert 537 in Figures 45-48 It has a heel portion 37C having a substantially constant width, and a widened tail portion 37E It does not have. The sensor system 512 in Figures 45-48 has lead 18 and numerous other The components are not illustrated and / or referenced here, but such components The sensor system is the sensor system 12 in Figures 3 to 22B and / or the sensor system in Figures 36 to 44. A component that is (structurally and / or functionally) similar to the corresponding component in Stem 412 Alternatively, please understand that it can be constructed using the same method.

[0034] Inserts 37, 37', 437, and 537 are sensors 16 of different numbers and / or configurations. , including any number of different configurations, shapes, and structures, with different insert structures or peripheral shapes. It should be understood that this is possible. For example, insert 37 described herein Any of the 37', 437', and 537' have different external shapes and dimensions. Furthermore, the cut-out portions 85A, 86A, 87A and the surrounding shapes have other special features. Some of the structural features and functions related to the aforementioned structural features, such as the characteristics mentioned above, or It may include all of the inserts described herein, 37, 3 Any of 7', 437, 537 may offer further or different shapes and / or functions. It may also include different structural characteristics.

[0035] In the embodiments shown in Figures 3 to 22B, the sensor 16 detects pressure on the sole of the foot 130. It is a force and / or pressure sensor for measuring force and / or force. Sensor 16 is a sensor To detect the pressure on 16, a measurement of the resistance value can be performed through port 14. It has a resistance value that decreases as the pressure on sensor 16 increases. (See Figures 3 to 22B) In the embodiment described, the multiple sensors 16 have an elliptical or circular shape, and as a result This allows for the use of a single sensor size across several different shoe sizes. In this embodiment, each of the multiple sensors 16 is positioned on the first layer 66. Two contacts, including a first contact 40 and a second contact 42 positioned on the second layer 68 Includes contact points 40 and 42. In this specification, the figure showing the first layer 66 is a plan view. Furthermore, the electronic structure (including contacts 40 and leads 18) is specifically described as not being so. Unless otherwise specified, it is positioned on the bottom surface of the first layer 66 and is transparent or translucent. It should be understood that this is observed through the first layer 66. Contacts 40 and 42 are the user's feet, etc. The pressure on the insert member 37, as a result, increases the engagement between the contacts 40 and 42. They are positioned on opposite sides of each other, as if hanging down, and are superimposed on each other. It is located there. The resistance value of sensor 16 decreases as the engagement between contacts 40 and 42 increases. Furthermore, module 22 detects pressure based on the change in the resistance value of sensor 16. It is configured as follows: In one embodiment, contacts 40 and 42 are in the embodiment shown in Figures 3 to 22B. As shown in the above, conductive patches printed on the first and second layers 66, 68 They may be formed in this way, and the two contact points 40 and 42 may be formed from the same or different materials. This may also be done. In addition, in one embodiment, the lead 18 is connected to the sensor contact 40. From a material having greater conductivity and lower resistivity than one or more of the 42 materials. It is formed from carbon black or another conductive carbon material. For example, the patch is made from carbon black or another conductive carbon material. It can be formed. Furthermore, in one embodiment, the two contacts 40 and 42 are the same It may be formed from the material, or from two materials having similar hardness values. As a result, wear and tear caused by differences in hardness between materials in contact with each other can be reduced. In this embodiment, in order to allow engagement between contacts 40 and 42, the first Contact 40 is printed on the back surface of the first layer 66, and the second contact 42 is printed on the second layer 68 It is printed on the upper surface. The embodiments shown in Figures 3 to 22B are spacers Including layer 67, the spacer layer 67 separates the other parts of the first and second layers 66 and 68 from each other. In order to provide insulation while allowing engagement of the contacts 40 and 42 through the spacer layer 67, The sensor 16 has a positioned hole 43. In one embodiment, each The hole 43 is aligned with one of the sensors 16 and the contacts of each sensor 16 It allows at least partial engagement between 40 and 42, as shown in Figures 7 to 18. In this embodiment, the area of ​​hole 43 is smaller than that of sensor contacts 40 and 42. This insulates the outer parts of contacts 40 and 42 and the dispersed leads 18A from each other, while maintaining the contacts The central portions of 40 and 42 are allowed to engage with each other (for example, Figures 13 and 35). (See A-B). In another embodiment, the hole 43 extends across its entire surface. They may be sized to allow engagement between contacts 40 and 42. Other embodiments In this regard, while maintaining similar functions, the size and dimensions of the sensor 16 and contacts 40 and 42, Please understand that the external shape and structure can be changed. Also, if the same size is available... Even if the sensor 16 is used in inserts 37 of different sizes for different shoe sizes Often, in this case, the dimensions of the sensor 16 in relation to the overall dimensions of the insert 37 are different. Please understand that the size of insert 37 may vary.

[0036] In other embodiments, the sensor system 12 is the same as in the embodiment shown in Figures 3 to 22B. The sensor 16 may be configured using a different method than the sensor 16. For example, Figures 33-34 show a different method from sensor 16 in the sensor system shown in Figures 3-22B. Further embodiments of sensor systems 212, 312 having a sensor 16 configured by This shows the embodiments shown in Figures 33 to 34. Contacts 40 and 42 of sensor 16 are the contacts of sensor 16 in the embodiment shown in Figures 3 to 22B. Points 40 and 42 are constructed using a different method. Sensor systems 212 and 312 Other components and features are any variations or substitutions of those described herein. Similar to or equivalent to the sensor system 12 in Figures 3 to 22B, including alternative embodiments. These are identical. As another example, Figures 48 to 51 show the same embodiment as in Figures 3 to 22B. Contacts 740, 742, and 74 are configured in a different manner from contacts 16 and 40, 42. One embodiment of a sensor system 712 including a sensor 16 having 4 is shown. In the example, the sensor 16 includes carbon-based or similar contacts 40, 42. A different configuration may be used, and / or it may function as a resistive sensor 16. It is not necessary. Examples of such sensors, in addition to the other examples, include capacitive pressure sensors or strain sensors. Includes a gauge pressure sensor.

[0037] As further shown in Figures 3 to 22B, in one embodiment, insert 37 is , allowing airflow through insert 37 during compression and / or bending of insert 37. It may include an internal airflow system 70 configured as shown in Figures 9, 11, 13, and 1. 8. Figures 22A-B and 28-30 show further components of the airflow system 70. This is shown in detail. The airflow system 70 receives the first information from the sensor 16 when the air is compressed. And between the second layers 66 and 68, and facing outwards, through one or more vents 72 Then, in order to allow the fluid to flow to the outside of the insert 37, one or more sensors from the sensor 16 are used. It may include one or more air passages or channels 71 that extend to a number of vents 72. The airflow system 70 resists the generation of excessive pressure during compression of the sensor 16, and also... It also allows for consistent isolation of the sensor 16 contacts 40 and 42 at various atmospheric pressures and altitudes. Therefore, this results in relatively consistent performance. Channel 71 is the first and It can be formed between two layers 66 and 68. As shown in Figure 18, the spacer layer 67 has channels 71 formed inside it, and air flows through these channels Through the lumen 71, one or more suitable vents can flow between the first and second layers 66, 68 up to the vent 72. The vent 72 can have a filter 73 covering itself in one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 22B. These filters 73 can be configured to allow air, moisture, and debris to pass out of the vent 72 while resisting the passage of moisture and debris into the vent 72. In another embodiment, the insert 37 may not include a spacer layer, and the lumen 71 may be formed by not sealing the layers 66, 68 together in a specific pattern, such as by applying a non-sealing material. Thus, the airflow system 70 can be considered integral with the layers 66, 68 or directly defined by them in one such embodiment. In other embodiments, the airflow system 70 can include a different number or configuration of air channels 71, vents 72, and / or other passages. In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 3 - 22B, FIG. 28, and FIG. 30, the airflow system 70 includes two vents 72 and a plurality of air channels 71 that connect each of the four sensors 16 to one of the vents 72. The spacer layer 67 includes holes 43 at each sensor in this embodiment, and the channels 71 are connected to the holes 43 to allow air to flow away from the sensors 16 through the channels 71. In addition, in this embodiment, two of the sensors 16 are channels ...

[0038] In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 3 - 22B, FIG. 28, and FIG. 30, the airflow system 70 includes two vents 72 and a plurality of air channels 71 that connect each of the four sensors 16 to one of the vents 72. The spacer layer 67 includes holes 43 at each sensor in this embodiment, and the channels 71 are connected to the holes 43 to allow air to flow away from the sensors 16 through the channels 71. In addition, in this embodiment, two of the sensors 16 are channels 71 is connected to the hole 43 so as to allow air to flow away from the sensor 16 through the channel 71. In addition to this, in this embodiment, two of the sensors 16 are channels Each of the vents 72 is connected through 71. For example, in Figures 4 and 7 to 18 As shown, the first midfoot sensor 16b is located in the first midfoot area of ​​the insert 37. The crab has a channel 71 that extends to a ventilation opening 72 behind it, and the first phalanx sensor 1 6a also travels to the same vent 72 via a path that includes movement through the first midfoot sensor 16b. It has an extended channel 71. In other words, the first phalanx sensor 16a is the first phalanx sensor Channel 7 extending from hole 43 in 16a to hole 43 in first midfoot sensor 16b It has 1 and another channel 71 extending from the first midfoot sensor 16b to the vent 72. Furthermore, the fifth metatarsal sensor 16c and the heel sensor 16d are located within the heel portion of the insert 37. They share a common ventilation opening 72. One channel 71 is connected to the fifth metafoot sensor 16. In c, the hole 43 extends posteriorly to the vent 72, and another channel 71 is the heel channel It extends forward from hole 43 in S16d to vent 72. Between multiple sensors By sharing the vent 72, specifically, the need for an additional filter 73 is avoided. This can reduce expenses. In other embodiments, airflow Stem 70 is shown in Figures 22C-D and has different configurations, as will be described later. It can have. In a further embodiment, each sensor 16 has its own It may have individual vents 72, or more than two sensors 16 may be identical It is also possible to share the ventilation opening 72.

[0039] Each of the ventilation openings 72 has an opening that can be observed in Figures 16-18 and 22A-B. To allow outward flow of air, moisture, and / or debris from the airflow system 70, Thus, it is formed as an opening in the bottom surface of the second layer 68 (i.e., on the opposite side of the first layer 66). In another embodiment, the vent 72 may include multiple openings. In one embodiment, the vent 72 is provided in addition to, or instead of, for air to enter An opening in the first layer 66 causes the air to be exhausted upward from the insert 37. It can also be formed in a further embodiment, where the vent 72 is channel 71 The channel 71 extends to the edge so that it opens through the edge to the outside of the insert 37. By positioning it in such a way, it can be positioned on the side (thin edge) of the insert 37. The downward exhaust of air is as shown in the embodiments in Figures 3 to 22B, 28, and 30. This makes it relatively difficult for fragments to enter the ventilation opening 72. Also, the bottom layer 6 When present, 9 allows air flowing out from the vent 72 to pass through the bottom layer 69. To accommodate this, it includes an aperture 74 positioned below the vent 72. The aperture 74 is As will be described later, the filter 73 is located around each of the vents 72 in the bottom layer 69 To allow it to be attached to the second layer 68 by adhesion through, it is significantly larger than the vent 72. It is getting bigger. In addition, in this embodiment, each vent 72 is To add stability and strength to the material and prevent breakage / rupture, around the vent 72 It has a reinforcing material 75 positioned in the shown embodiment. To facilitate printing, the same lead 18 (for example, silver or other metallic ink) Although formed from which material, the same material as the sensor contacts 40 and 42 (for example, carbon, etc.) They may be formed from materials or dielectric materials as described herein.

[0040] Ventilation opening 7 in the embodiment shown in Figures 3 to 22B, Figure 28, and Figure 30 2 is open downwards, and the air passing through the vent 72 is directed downwards, midsound Passing toward the 131 and, if present, toward the foam member 138 In the embodiments shown in Figures 3 to 5, Figure 28, and Figure 30, the foam member 13 8 is positioned directly below the vent 72, so that the air leaving the vent is individually It has a cavity 76 through which the passage passes. See Figures 3 to 5, Figure 28, and In the embodiment shown in Figure 30, each cavity 76 is punched, cut, Alternatively, a slot that extends entirely through the foam member 138 may be formed by another technique. It is formed as such. In another embodiment, the cavity 76 is one of the foam member 138 It may be a recess that extends only through a portion, or (for example, a strobel or mid Through at least a portion of the structure below the foam member 138 (such as the sole), etc. Furthermore, it can extend deeper than the foam member 138. In a further embodiment, The sole structure does not necessarily have to include the foam member 138, and the cavity 76 is a straw Slots, recesses, or other perforations within other sole components such as the sole or midsole. The structure can at least partially form it. As shown in Figure 5, In one embodiment, at least a portion of the cavity 76 may be circular and ventilated To provide space for use, it can extend wider than the vent 72. This configuration is Allows air to pass out through the vent 72 without interference from the foam member 138 In another embodiment, the insert 37 can be positioned above another sole member (such as a part of the midsole 131) that may include one or more cavities 7 6. In a further embodiment, the holes may not be present, and instead, air can be directly exhausted downward into the foam member 138 or other sole member at 72. One or both of the cavities 76 can have an extending portion that forms a passage 77 that further allows air to pass out of the cavity 76. In the embodiments of FIGS. 3-5, FIG. 28, and FIG. 30, each of the cavities 76 has a channel portion 77 that extends in a lateral direction away from the cavity 76 and beyond the peripheral boundary of the insert 37. That is, the channel portion 77 of the cavity 76 extends laterally from the vent 72 to a tip portion 78 disposed outside the peripheral boundary of the insert 37. If the foam member 138 has a recess 139 to receive the insert member 37, it should be understood that the tip portion 78 of the channel portion 77 of the cavity 76 can also be disposed outside the peripheral boundary of the recess 139. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3-5, the tip portion 78 extends to the edge of the foam member 138. This configuration allows air to pass through the cavity 76 to escape the sole structure 130 by passing through the channel portion 77 laterally and then upward and / or outward away from the foam member 138. FIG. 28 shows a schematic cross-section of this configuration, where the arrow indicates the flow of air. The configurations shown in FIGS. 3-5, FIG. 28, and FIG. 30 are (for example One or both of the cavities 76 can have an extending portion that forms a passage 77 that further allows air to pass out of the cavity 76. In the embodiments of FIGS. 3-5, FIG. 28, and FIG. 30, each of the cavities 76 has a channel portion 77 that extends in a lateral direction away from the cavity 76 and beyond the peripheral boundary of the insert 37. That is, the channel portion 77 of the cavity 76 extends laterally from the vent 72 to a tip portion 78 disposed outside the peripheral boundary of the insert 37. If the foam member 138 has a recess 139 to receive the insert member 37, it should be understood that the tip portion 78 of the channel portion 77 of the cavity 76 can also be disposed outside the peripheral boundary of the recess 139. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3-5, the tip portion 78 extends to the edge of the foam member 138. This configuration allows air to pass through the cavity 76 to escape the sole structure 130 by passing through the channel portion 77 laterally and then upward and / or outward away from the foam member 138. FIG. 28 shows a schematic cross-section of this configuration, where the arrow indicates the flow of air. The configurations shown in FIGS. 3-5, FIG. 28, and FIG. 30 are (for example ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ , resisting the movement of debris (such as dust and fibers) and moisture to and through the vents. Furthermore, it allows airflow from the vent 72 to the outside, and presumably back into the vent 72. Air must pass through the vent 72 in order to move between them, The downward, lateral, and upward paths are designed to resist this movement, and The fragments are often found at the tip 78 of the cavity 76, as in drain traps in plumbing applications. It is captured in the vicinity of [the object].

[0041] In another embodiment, the tip portion 78 is located within the foam member 138, and still, It may also be stopped at a point outside the peripheral boundary of insert 37, and as a result, air At the tip 78, it is possible to exhaust upward outwards from the cavity 76, and the same Alternatively, similar functionality can be obtained. Figures 36-38 and 47 show one exemplary embodiment of this configuration. The state is shown. The foot contact member 133 in the embodiments of Figures 36 to 38 and 47 is shown in Figure The passage of air through the foot contact member 133, such as the passage 79 shown in Figures 28 and 30. It may include a passage positioned around the tip 78 of the cavity 76 to allow Please understand. In a further embodiment, at least a portion of the channel portion 77 is It may be a tunnel within the foam member 138 instead of a slit. In this configuration, the channel section 77 is separated from the tunnel section, and the air passing through the tunnel is discharged upward. It may have an opening that allows air to enter, or the tunnel section may be lateral To allow for exhaust in the opposite direction, it can also extend all the way to the edge of the foam member 138. Figure 29 shows a cross-section of an alternative embodiment, in which case the foam member 138 is airtight. It includes cavity 76 but does not include channel portion 77.

[0042] In addition, the foot contact member 133 is empty in Figures 3 to 5, Figure 28, and Figure 30. One or more extending through the foot contact member 133, positioned at the tip 78 of the cavity 76 It includes a number of passages 79. As shown in Figures 28 and 30, the passages 79 are foot contact members A pinhole-type passage 79 may extend vertically through 133. In the construction configuration, different types of passages 79, including slits or grooves, may be used. Furthermore, at least one passage 79 is not upward through the thickness of the foot contact member 133. Furthermore, it can extend laterally to the side of the foot contact member 133. The passage 79 is a ventilation opening 7 Through 2 and outward through the cavity 76, the escaping air passes through the foot contact member 133. Furthermore, it allows passage outside the sole structure 130. In another embodiment... Therefore, the foot contact member 133 does not need to include any passage 79. Foot contact member 133 is constructed in a configuration that does not have any passage 79, and the foot contact member 133 is constructed By using a foam or other breathable material that is as breathable as possible, We can still provide energy.

[0043] As described above, in one embodiment, the insert 37 is located in Figures 22B and 28-22B. As observed in 9, one or more vents 72 are at least partially covered. It may have one or more filters 73. The filters 73 block the vent 72. It may be considered a selectively permeable closure that blocks the air opening 72 It is necessary to allow at least some air to pass through to the outside, and to prevent certain undesirable substances from entering the vents. It resists passage. For example, in the embodiments shown in Figures 3 to 22B, Figure 28, and Figure 30, The filter 73 is selectively permeable and closed, allowing both inward and outward airflow. It is present, and also resists the inward flow of moisture and / or particles, while allowing the outward flow of moisture. It is permitted. One type of filter 73 that can achieve this function is, for example, PTFE (That is, porous membranes having Teflon) fibers, This is a fluoroplastic porous membrane. Such a porous membrane is one In the embodiment, a porous membrane having a thickness of 10 lm to 100 lm, This is also good. In the filter 73 containing PTFE fibers, the high surface energy of PTFE This results in the water spheres up on the surface of the filter 73 rather than penetrating through it. Filter 73 is configured to allow filter 73 to be connected to insert 37, Adhesives may be present on one of the surfaces, and the shear strength for porous membranes is provided. To provide, another material, such as polyester material, is connected to the inward or outward surface. It may also have further embodiments. Embodiments shown in Figures 3 to 22B, Figure 28, and Figure 30. In this configuration, the filter 73 is positioned around the vent 72 in order to cover the vent 72. The bottom layer 69 is attached to the bottom surface of the second layer 68 by adhesive. The bottom layer 69 is shown in Figures 3 to 22B. In the embodiments shown in Figures 28 and 30, the filter 73 is attached to the second layer 68 by adhesion. To allow for this, it includes an aperture 74 that is significantly larger than the vent 72. In this embodiment, different types of filters 73 may be used, and the filter The 73 may be connected to the insert 37 by another method. In a further embodiment... Therefore, filter 73 does not need to be used.

[0044] Figures 36 to 44 show the insert 37 described above, and which is different from the insert 37 shown in Figures 3 to 22B. Insert 4 includes an airflow system 70 having different channel 71 and vent 72 configurations. This shows a sensor system 412 having 37. Figures 22C-D and 45-47 are shown. It has channels 71 and vents 72 configured similarly to insert 437 in Figures 36 to 44. Further embodiments 37' and 537 of the insert member, including the airflow system 70, are shown. The positions of sensors 16a to d in the embodiments shown in Figures 22C to D are generally the same as those in Figures 3 to 2. This is the same as the embodiment in Figures 2B, 28, and 30, and also as shown in Figure 22C. This is shown by the dashed line on the spacer layer 67. For the sake of brevity, a further explanation of the inserts in Figures 36 to 44 will be omitted here. In embodiment 437, the first phalanx sensor 16a and the first metatarsal sensor 16b are located above A channel 71 having substantially the same configuration as described above is connected to the same vent 72. Furthermore, the fifth metatarsal sensor 16c and the heel sensor 16d also share a common ventilation opening 72. This common vent 72 is as shown in the embodiments of Figures 3 to 22B, Figure 28, and Figure 30. It is located not in the heel area, but within the fifth metatarsal area of ​​insert 437. In this configuration, the heel sensor 16d is located at the fifth metatarsal site through the hole 43 in the heel sensor 16d. It has a channel 71 that extends to hole 43 in nsa 16c, and another channel 71 It extends from the fifth metatarsal sensor 16c to the vent 72. As shown in Figures 36 to 44. Thus, the location of the vent 72 is different from that of the above-described embodiment, and therefore, SART 437 includes features specifically adapted for vents 72 in these locations. It can be used in conjunction with the sole structure 130. Figures 36 to 38 show the sole structure 130 and A foamed portion containing a cavity 76 positioned for cooperation with the vent 72 of the insert 437. Material 138 and these cavities 76 are shown in Figures 3 to 5, and this It functions similarly to the cavity 76 of the embodiment described in the specification. For example, foam The component 138 prevents the exhaust of air from the vent 72 in the fifth metatarsal area of ​​the insert 437. To prevent this, the part of the plantar structure 130 that extends forward beyond the peripheral edge of the insert 437 5. Within the midfoot area, there is a cavity 76. Also, the foam member 138 has an insert 437. In order to prevent the exhaust of air from the ventilation opening 72 within the first midfoot area, insert 4 Within the first metatarsal area of ​​the plantar structure 130 that extends posteriorly beyond the peripheral edge 37, It has a cavity 76. Inserts 37', 537 in Figures 22C-D and 45-47 are various In one embodiment, a foam member 1 has a cavity 76 positioned at a similar location. 38 can be used. In other embodiments, different positions of the cavity 76 and It should be understood that the configuration may be used. In a further embodiment, a single plantar structure 1 30 has several different types of inserts 37, 3 with different vent locations 72. It may include multiple cavities 76 configured to be used in conjunction with 7', 437, and 537. In this embodiment, at least some of the cavities 76 are part of the structure of the insert 37. Depending on the composition, etc., it may not be used. In further embodiments, as specified herein Any features or characteristics of the described embodiment of the airflow system 70 may be attributed to the airflow system As well as other embodiments of Tem 70, the sensor system 12, insert 37, and / Alternatively, it can be combined with other embodiments of the footwear 100.

[0045] In the embodiments shown in Figures 3 to 22B, as described above, the spacer layer 67 is generally, Electrical contact is desired in the path 50 of the sensor 16 and between contacts 40 and 42. Except for the areas where the conductive members / components on the first and second layers 66 and 68 are separated from each other. It is insulated from. The spacer layer 67 is in the area of ​​desired electrical contact between layers 66 and 68. To define, it has holes 38 and 42. Components of the airflow system 70, in particular, Channel 71 is short-circuited by one or more conductive members between the first and second layers 66, 68. Or it may provide a route for other undesirable electrical contact. In one embodiment In this case, the sensor system 12 has an open area in the spacer layer 67, such as channel 71. To resist or prevent undesirable short circuits caused by one or more conductive members spanning across To that end, one or more patches of dielectric material 80 may be included. This is acrylic ink or other UV-curable ink, or another suitable for application. It can have the form of an insulating material. In the embodiments shown in Figures 16-17 Then, the insert 37 is positioned around the sensor contacts 40 and 42, with dispersed leads 1 To insulate the 8A from each other, several portions of dielectric material 80 extending across channel 71 are used. It has a groove. As shown in Figures 16-17, the dielectric material 80 is on top of the second layer 68. It is connected to the surface and covers the dispersed lead 18A, but in another embodiment, The dielectric material 80 may be connected to the first layers 66 and 68, or both layers may be dielectric material It may also have 80. In a further embodiment, the spacer layer 67 is a channel 71 may have dielectric "bridges". In addition, dielectric material This completely covers a portion of the distributed read 18A, and is wider than the width of channel 71. It is wide, and as a result, the movement or displacement of the spacer layer 67, or the difference in manufacturing tolerances, is compensated for. In this embodiment, the insert 37 is located on one of the rear sides of the first phalanx sensor 16a. Patch 80, two patches 80 on the front and rear ends of the first midfoot sensor 16b, fifth midfoot One patch 80 on the rear side of the foot sensor 16c, and one patch 80 on the front side of the heel sensor 16d At each intersection of each channel 71 with distributed read 18A, including 0 It has a patch of dielectric material 80 arranged in an insert. In other embodiments, 37 is the remaining portion of the dispersed lead 18A or other conductive material between layers 66, 68 A dielectric material placed somewhere else on the insert 37 to insulate from short circuits. It may have patches. Holes, apparitions formed and / or positioned by different methods. Spacer layers 67 having different configurations such as churning and openings are used for insulation purposes. It should be understood that this may lead to the use of dielectric material 80 elsewhere. As described therein, the dielectric material 80 is used as a reinforcing or stiffening material in other places It may be used in the following contexts.

[0046] In the embodiments shown in Figures 3 to 22B, port 14, sensor 16, and lead 18 are, The circuit 10 is formed on the insert member 37. The port 14 has multiple terminals 11 In this case, each of the four terminals 11 is individually connected to one of the four sensors. It is dedicated to this purpose, and one terminal 11 is for applying voltage to the circuit 10. Furthermore, one terminal 11 is for voltage measurement. Also, in this embodiment, the sensor system Tem 12 consists of a pair of resistors, each positioned on top of one of layers 66 or 68. Includes components 53 and 54, and a path 50 connecting the circuit on the first layer 66 to the circuit on the second layer 68. Hmm. Resistors 53 and 54 are modules 2 for measuring the resistance values ​​of each sensor 16. It provides a reference point for 2, and module 22 measures the variable current from the active sensor 16. It allows conversion to a possible voltage. In addition, resistors 53 and 54 are connected to circuit 10 In order to print the internal fluctuations and / or lead 18 and / or sensor contacts 40, 42 The manufacturing process used to generate resistors 53 and 54, such as variations in the conductivity of the ink used. Within the circuit 10 that compensates for fluctuations in the manufacturing process, it is configured in a parallel state. In this embodiment, the equivalent resistance of the two resistors 53 and 54 is 1500+ / -500k It is Ω. In another embodiment, a single resistor 53, 54 or two in series Resistors 53 and 54 can be used. In a further embodiment, resistor 5 3, 54 may be positioned at another location on the insert 37, or It may be placed within the circuit of module 22. Further details of the circuit 10 of this embodiment are described below. The technical diagram will be explained and illustrated in Figure 20.

[0047] Figure 20 shows a circuit that can be used to detect and measure pressure according to one embodiment of the present invention. It shows 10. Circuit 10 has a power supply terminal 104a for applying voltage to circuit 10, and As described above, there is a measurement terminal 104b for measuring voltage, and four sensor terminals 104 Includes six terminals 104a to 104f, including c to 104f. 4 sensor terminals 104c to 104f. Each of the 104f is dedicated to one of the sensors 16a to 16d, and In this embodiment, it represents ground. Terminals 104a to 104f are for port 14. This represents terminal 11. In the illustrated embodiment, this represents resistors 53 and 54. Constant resistors 102a and 102b are connected in parallel. Fixed resistor 102 a and 102b can be physically arranged on separate layers. Terminals 104a and The equivalent resistance value spanning 104b is determined by the well-known following formula: Req=R102a*R1102b / (R102a+R102b) (Formula 1) Here, each item is as follows:

[0048] R102a = Resistance value of fixed resistor 102a R102b = Resistance value of fixed resistor 102b Req = Equivalent resistance By electrically connecting fixed resistors 102a and 102b in a parallel state, Variations in the manufacturing process used to produce constant resistors 102a and 102b are compensated for. For example, when the fixed resistor 102a has a resistance value that deviates from the desired resistance value. The equivalent resistance is determined by Equation 1 by averaging the effect of the fixed resistor 102b. The deviation of the value is minimized. Those skilled in the art will know that the two fixed resistors shown are for illustrative purposes only. You will understand that this is nothing more than that. Further fixed resistors are connected in parallel. They may be connected, and each fixed resistor may be formed on a different layer. .

[0049] In the embodiment shown in Figure 20, fixed resistors 102a and 102b are, It is connected to sensors 16a to 16d. Sensors 16a to 16d, as described above, detect changes in pressure. This can be implemented using a variable resistor that changes its resistance value in response to a change. Sensor 1 Each of 6a to 16d can be embodied by multiple variable resistors. In terms of configuration, each of the sensors 16a to 16d is arranged on a physically different layer. This is embodied by two variable resistors that are electrically connected in parallel. For example, in relation to one embodiment, as described above, each sensor 1 6a to 16d engage with each other to a relatively larger degree as the applied pressure increases. The sensors 16a to 16d can include two contacts 40 and 42, and their resistance values ​​are such that they engage. As increases, it can decrease. As mentioned above, when resistors are in parallel By connecting them, an equivalent resistance value is generated that minimizes deviations that occur during the manufacturing process. In another embodiment, contacts 40 and 42 may be configured in series. Even if sensors 16a to 16d are connected to ground via switches 108a to 108d, Good. Switches 108a to 108d are used to connect one sensor at a time, one at a time. It may be closed. In some embodiments, switches 108a to 108d are It is embodied by a transistor or integrated circuit.

[0050] During operation, a voltage level such as 3 volts is applied to terminal 104a. The switches 108a to 108d are used to connect one of the sensors 16a to 16d to ground. The circuits are closed one at a time. When connected to ground, each of sensors 16a to 16d This, together with the combination of fixed resistors 102a and 102b, forms a voltage divider. For example, When switch 108a is closed, the voltage between terminal 104a and ground is equal to the voltage across fixed resistor 102a The combination of and 102b is divided between sensor 16a. At terminal 104b, The measured voltage changes as the resistance value of sensor 16a changes. As a result, The pressure applied to terminal 16a can be measured as the voltage level at terminal 104b. The resistance value of sensor 16a is the same as that of a combination of fixed resistors 104a, which have known values. And by utilizing the voltage applied to sensor 16a, which is in series with 104b, It is measured. Similarly, by selectively closing switches 108b to 108d, the sensor The voltage level at terminal 104b related to the pressure applied in S16b~16d is This will result in the generation of... The connection between sensors 16a~d and terminals 104c~f is... Please understand that the implementation configuration may differ. For example, sensors 16a to d are shown in Figure 12. As shown, in comparison with the right shoe insert 37, the left shoe insert 37 contains In another embodiment, it is connected to different pins of interface 20. The voltage level is such that the ground is located at terminal 104a, and the voltage is at terminal 104c~ In the state where it is applied at f, it can be applied in the opposite way. In one embodiment, a different circuit configuration may be used to achieve similar results and functions. It is possible.

[0051] The two resistors 53 and 54 have similar or identical structures in the illustrated embodiment. However, it should be understood that resistors may have different structures in other embodiments. Each resistor 53, 54 has two sections 55, 56 that are spaced apart from each other. , positioned between sections 55 and 56 and connecting them It has a ridge 57 and a resistor 53, 54. Figures 15 and 17 show more detailed diagrams of resistors 53 and 54. In this case, one resistor 53 is shown from above, and the other resistor 5 Section 4 is shown from the reverse side. Sections 55 and 56 are resistors through one lead 18. An electronic signal or current entering devices 53 and 54 crosses bridge 57 and passes through sections 55 and 5 It moves between 6 and then detaches through the other lead 18. As shown, it can be connected to different leads 18. Sections 55 and 56 are small In order to provide a large length for transmission between sections 55 and 56 within the rear, The side section 55 and the outer section 56 which substantially surrounds the inner section 55 It can be formed in this way. In this embodiment, the bridge 57 is the inner sector It substantially surrounds section 55, and is also substantially surrounded by the outer section 56. It is observed and understood in Figures 15-17, Bridge 5 7 allows transmission through bridge 57, with inner section 55 and outer section Both of n56 partially overlap. In the embodiments shown in Figures 15 and 17 The inner section 55 is formed in a circular or substantially circular shape. In this embodiment, the outer section 56 is less than the inner section 55. It is also partially surrounded by a semi-annular ring shape, which is at least partially formed, and It is separated from the inner section around the inner edge of the ring. Also in this embodiment The bridge 57 has a semi-annular ring shape with inner and outer semi-circular edges, At least partially formed, and the bridge 57 has at least the inner section 55 Partially enclosing and at least partially filling the space between sections 55 and 56 As shown in Figure 17, the inner edge of bridge 57 is the inner section 5 It overlaps with 5, and the outer edge of bridge 57 is aligned with outer section 56. It is burlapped. In addition, in this embodiment, the lead 18 is outer sector It connects to the inner section 55 without contacting the section 56 or bridge 57. Furthermore, in order to allow passage away from the inner section 55, gap 5 8 is defined through the outer section 56 and bridge 57. In other words, a semiring The outer section 56 and bridge 57 of the ring shape define a gap 58 between them. It has an end portion. The relative shapes, sizes, and of sections 55, 56 and bridge 57. Please understand that the configuration may differ in other embodiments.

[0052] In one embodiment, the bridge 57 is made of a more resistant material than sections 55, 56. They may be formed in this way, and therefore provide more than half of the resistance values ​​of each resistor 53, 54. Sections 55 and 56 specify that highly conductive materials such as silver materials are available. It can also be partially formed. In the embodiments shown in Figures 3 to 22B, The inner and outer sections 55 and 56 are based on printed silver or other metals. It is formed from the same material as lead 18, such as ink. In this embodiment, The bridge 57 is a sensor contact 40 made of carbon black or another conductive carbon material. , formed from the same material as 42. Inner and outer sections 55, 56 and / or Understand that in other embodiments, bridge 57 may be formed from different materials. I want to be treated that way.

[0053] Route 50 generally allows continuous and / or uninterrupted telecommunications, and electronic communications The material is passed between the first and second layers 66 and 68. Embodiments shown in Figures 3 to 22B. In this configuration, port 14 is directly connected to layer 2 68, and path 50 is It functions as a vertical path between port 14 and sensor contacts 40 on the first layer 66, 68. This can be done. In this embodiment, the path 50 has a conductive portion 51 which is the first and second layer In order to provide continuous telecommunication between 66 and 68, they are designed to be in a continuous state of engagement with one another. The first layer 66 and the second layer 68 include conductive portions 51 (see, for example, Figure 21). (To be done). In this embodiment, the spacer layer 67 is a hole aligned with the path 50. It includes 38 and allows continuous engagement between the conductive portions 51 through the spacer layer 67. In addition, in the embodiments shown in Figures 3 to 22B, each of the conductive portions 51 This is divided into two sections separated by a long gap 59 (Figure) 15) These conductive sections 52 are in the embodiments shown in Figures 3 to 22B. In this case, it has a substantially semi-circular shape, and the conductive portion 51 generally has a circular shape. Section 52 on the first layer 66 is the same as the sections on each layer 66 and 68, and Section on the second layer 68 engages with the corresponding section 52 on layers 66 and 68. It is molded, sized, and arranged in substantially the same way as n52. Also, two layers 66, 6 The gap 59 on 8 is substantially aligned in this embodiment. In other words, the conductive portion 51 is either the left section 52 or the right section 52 In a state where there is no direct engagement between them, the left section 52 of the conductive portion 51 They engage with each other, and the right section 52 of the conductive portion 51 engages with each other, It can be done. Alternatively, this configuration is a process of two separate side by side. It may also be said that the path is generated between the first and second layers 66 and 68, and that Each section 52 is considered to be a separate conductive part that forms its respective path. This is possible. The conductive portion 51 of the path 50 is formed from a conductive material, and one solid In the application form, the conductive part 51 is coated with silver-based or other metallic inks. It can be formed from the same material as lead 18. In other embodiments, Road 50 and its components described herein are of different sizes and shapes. It can have a form or location, and can be formed from different materials.

[0054] In one embodiment, the path 50 provides structural support and / or effect, rigidity Even if surrounded, at least partially, by the stiffening structure 60 Often, or even if the boundaries are defined. As shown in Figures 7-17 and Figure 21. In fact, the conductive portion 51 is surrounded by a substantially annular rigid material 60. In the construction configuration, the rigid material 60 is associated with the gap 59 extending through the rigid material 60. However, it is not perfectly ring-shaped, and in another embodiment, the rigid material 60 is a guide It includes a further gap for the lead 18, which passes through and connects to the electrical portion 51. It is also possible to do so. In this embodiment, the rigid material 60 provides the maximum engagement between the conductive portions 51. To achieve this, it functions to support engagement between the conductive parts 51. Figure 21 shows further details. This configuration is shown in detail. Figure 21 shows its characteristics, at least partially schematic. Furthermore, the relative sizes of the components shown in Figure 21 are for effect and understanding. It should be understood that this may be an exaggeration. In addition, Figure 21 shows other layers. For clarity in the illustrations 66, 67, and 68, the bottom layer 69 is not shown. In general, - Layer 67 is such that layers 66 and 68 engage with each other in the path 50. To provide separation between the conductive parts 51 so that they must deflect toward each other. Yes, they are.

[0055] In the embodiment shown in Figure 21, the holes 38 in the spacer layer 67 are conductive portions 51 allows deflection toward each other and engagement with each other. First and Layers 66 and 68 are assembled inserts at the location of path 50 to remove excess air. To achieve this contact, such as by passing a roller over the 37, exhaust is released. Or, if not, they may be pressed together. The mutual deflections of layers 66 and 68 are , around the edge of hole 38, an annular transition occurs on one or both of layers 66 and 67. A region 61 is generated, in which case one or more layers 66, 68 are deflected toward each other. In this embodiment, the transition region 61 consists of an outer annular fracture line 61a and an inner annular fracture line. The transition region 61 is defined by the fracture line 61b, in this case the transition region 61 is defined by the fracture line 6 It is located between 1a and 61b, and the conductive portion 51 is within the inner fracture line 61b It is located. In this configuration, the first and second layers 66 and 68 are generally externally fractured. Outside line 61a and inside the inner fracture line 61a, in the horizontal direction Furthermore, the first and second layers 66 and 68 generate engagement between the conductive portions 51. Furthermore, they are inclined toward each other in the transition region 61. The holes 38 are formed when the rigid material 60 is in the holes 38 The rigid material 60 is larger in dimensions so that it is positioned adjacent to the edge of the rigid material 60. In this configuration, the increased rigidity of the stiffening material 60 is due to the location of the stiffening material 60. The slope that brings about a sharp transition from the horizontal to at least partially the vertical of layers 66 and 68. The rigid material 60 has a direction and therefore tends to define the transition region 61.

[0056] As observed in Figure 21, the location of the transition region 61 in the rigid material 60 is the transition region The maximum contact between conductive portions 51 within the area 62 defined by region 61 It is permitted. In one embodiment, the majority of the conductive portion 51 is by the transition region 61. The boundaries are in a state of continuous engagement with each other through the holes 38 within the defined area 62. In another embodiment, the conductive portion 51 is defined by the transition region 61. They are in a state of continuous engagement with each other through the holes 38 that extend all or substantially throughout the rear 62. This continuous contact ensures that the path 50 and circuit 10 function properly without interruption. It helps to ensure that the engagement between layers 66 and 68 in path 50 is improved. Adhesives can be used in or around the path 50. 60 may be formed from any material having appropriate rigidity, and in one embodiment Therefore, it can be formed from a material having greater rigidity than the material of the conductive portion 51. Examples of such materials include carbon black or other carbon-based materials. In other embodiments, other materials, including other types of printable substances, are used. It can be used.

[0057] Furthermore, the rigid material 60 supports the realization of continuous engagement between the conductive parts 51 by a different method. It can also provide support. In the embodiments shown in Figures 3 to 22B, the rigid material 60 has reflectivity. In comparison with inks based on metal in conductive portion 51, which may have a tendency to do so, a large amount of light It is formed by a carbon-based ink that further absorbs wavelengths. The ink may be cured using IR radiation, and in this embodiment Therefore, the rigid material 60 absorbs a relatively larger amount of IR radiation than the conductive portion 51. This can be done. This absorption occurs when layers 66 and 68 are relative to the surface on which the rigid material 60 is printed. Layers 66 and 68 are made to be warm on one side and relatively cool on the opposite side. To generate a temperature gradient across the thickness, the areas of layers 66 and 68 directly below the rigid material 60 It can have a tendency to heat the phase in the rigid material 60. The warmer surface contracts in relation to the opposite surface of the rigid material 60, and as a result, The regions of each layer 66, 68 inside the rigid material 60 (i.e., in the conductive portion 51) so as to cause a slight upward protrusion or recess around the rigid material 60 This allows for differential expansion / contraction on the opposite surfaces of layers 66 and 68. The protrusions of 6 and 68 extend the conductive portions 51 on layers 66 and 68 so that they are in close proximity to each other. This results in an increased engagement between the conductive parts 51, and consequently, the rigid material 6 This can help to achieve continuous or substantially continuous engagement of the conductive portion 51 within 0. The protrusions of layers 66 and 68, in addition to or instead of this, generate a protrusion or recess effect. To achieve this, mechanical stamping or other pre-deformation actions are used. This can also be improved. In addition to this, or instead, the relationship between the conductive parts 51 To increase the bonding strength, joining techniques such as ultrasonic spot welding or other spot welding methods are used. It may be used. In one embodiment, the conductive portions 51 are maintained in a state of mutual engagement. To achieve this, ultrasonic spot welding is performed to create a waffle pattern between the conductive parts 51. It may be used in the pattern.

[0058] The gap 59 in the path 50 can supply multiple functions. One function that can be supplied is to create a separate connection between layers 66 and 68. This creates electrical isolation between sections 52 of path 50. Another feature that can be supplied by part 59 is the durability of the path 50 when insert 37 is bent. The goal is to increase the frequency of movement. Generally, the user's foot is located in the fifth metatarsal area (fifth metatarsal head). From the bony area or the fifth metatarsophalangeal area to the first metatarsal area (first metatarsal head) It has a tendency to "roll" in the area (also called the first metatarsophalangeal area). This will result in the following. In the embodiments shown in Figures 3 to 22B, the path 50 is the roll of the user's foot. The second and / or third midfoot area of ​​insert 37 so that it passes directly along path 50 It is arranged around A. This repetitive rolling having this characteristic is the conductive part This can result in 51 bends, which in turn can lead to wear, breakage, separation, etc. It is possible. The gap 59, when properly aligned, allows for the bending of the conductive portion 51. In order to minimize this, it can function as an inflection point. In the embodiments shown in Figures 3 to 22B In general, the gap 59 is perpendicular to the typical direction of the user's foot roll. Or, to put it another way, between the 5th and 1st midfoot areas of insert 37 It is aligned perpendicular to the extending line. In one embodiment, A virtual line L (see Figure 10) connects sensor 16b in the first midfoot area to the fifth It may be pulled between the sensors 16c in the midfoot area, and the gap 59 is this Perpendicular to line L, or within + / - 45° from perpendicular to line L, Alignment may be performed. The line L shown in Figure 10 is the first midfoot sensor 16b The front edge (e.g., front center) and the rear edge (e.g., rear center) of the 5th midfoot sensor 16c It is drawn between the heart. In other embodiments, the gap 59 (exists) In particular, in cases where the path 50 is located within different areas of the insert 37 In some cases, positioning may be performed using a different method.

[0059] Figures 52 to 56 are similar to the sensor system 12 and insert 37 in Figures 3 to 22B. Another embodiment of the sensor system 612, including the insert member 37, is shown in Figure 52. In the embodiment shown in Figure 56, the path 50 is as shown in the embodiments shown in Figures 3 to 22B. It does not contain the rigidifying material 60. In addition, the conductivity of the path 50 in this embodiment Part 51 is covered by the rigid material 60 in the embodiments shown in Figures 3 to 22B. It is enlarged to cover the rear. In other words, in this embodiment, conductive The material portion 51 extends almost to the edge of the hole 38 which is aligned with the path 50. Furthermore, each part of the conductive portion 51 is a transition region, as schematically shown in Figure 56. It is positioned within 61. Conductive portion 51 in the embodiment shown in Figures 52 to 56. The increased size provides a relatively large surface area for potential engagement between the conductive parts 51. The rear may be provided, and thereby the relatively consistent and uninterrupted route 50 It can provide functions that are not currently available. In other respects, route 50 is shown in Figures 3-2. The actual route 50 shown in 2B and described elsewhere in this specification In relation to the construction form, it shares structural and functional characteristics. A further explanation of the functions will be omitted for the sake of brevity. In one embodiment, as described above... By generating a protruding or recessed effect of layers 66 and 68, the relationship between the conductive portions 51 To improve the fit, mechanical stamping or other pre-deformation operations can be used. As mentioned above, in addition to this, or instead, the conductive part 51 To increase engagement between them, joins such as ultrasonic spot welding or other spot welding are performed. Techniques can also be used.

[0060] In another embodiment, the path 50 may be located in a different location, or It may also have a different configuration. For example, in one embodiment, the path 50 is the first It utilizes a 2-pin connection on layer 66 (not shown) and a crimping connection (crimping 2-pin connection via (ng connection, etc.) to the 5th and 6th terminals 1 of interface 20 It can be formed at or near terminal 11 by connecting to 1, etc. In further embodiments, other structures can be used to form the path 50. Cut.

[0061] Figures 48 to 51 show the sensor systems 12, 412, and 5 described herein. 12, configured in a manner different from that described herein In comparison with sensor systems 12, 412, 512, and 612, different operating modes are shown. Another embodiment of the sensor system 712 is shown. Figures 48 to 51 show the sensor system Stem 712 is connected to the sensor system 12 as described above and shown in Figures 3 to 22B. They share many structural and functional characteristics in common. For example, Figures 48 to 51 The external shape of the insert 37, the general position of the sensor 16, and the airflow system in the embodiment. The configuration of TEM 70 is as follows: the shape of the insert 37 in Figures 3 to 22B, and the overall configuration of the sensor 16. This position is similar to, or identical to, the configuration of the airflow system 70. The further explanation of these and other common features here is for the sake of brevity. It may be omitted as such.

[0062] In the embodiments shown in Figures 48 to 51, the sensor system 712 is located on the second layer 68. Two contacts or electrodes 740, 742 are positioned on the first layer 66. The sensor 16 includes a third contact 744. In this embodiment, all The contacts 740, 742, and 744 are formed from the carbon-based ink described above. And, at the edges of each contact point 740, 742, and 744, there are one or more distributed leads. It has 18A. Contacts 740 and 742 on the second layer 68 are different from contact 744 on the first layer 66. They may have different conductivity, and doping is performed to achieve relatively high conductivity. It may be formed from an ink based on carbonized material. Contacts 740, 74 on the second layer 68 The two are electrically isolated from each other, and each is connected to port 14 by lead 18. A single power or ground lead 18B is connected to the first contacts of all sensors 16. It is connected to 740, and the second contact 742 of each individual sensor 16 is It is connected to port 14 via read 18.

[0063] The structure of sensor 16 in the sensor system 712 shown in Figures 48 to 51 is as follows: This is similar to the sensor 16 in the embodiment shown in Figures 3 to 22B. In this case, the combined first and second contacts 740 and 742 are as shown in the implementations in Figures 3 to 22B. In this configuration, the first and second contacts 740 and 742 are electrically isolated from each other, and Except that the three contacts 744 are structured similarly to the contacts 40 on the first layer 66, It has a similar structure to the contact 42 on the second layer 68 in the embodiments shown in Figures 3 to 22B. In the implementation configuration, the sensor 16 and / or contacts 740, 742, 744 have different configurations. It can have. For example, in one embodiment, the contact 744 on the first layer 66 is carbon It may also be a single patch of ink based on a specific color.

[0064] In the embodiment of the sensor system 712 shown in Figures 48 to 51, the first and second contacts 74 0 and 742 are electrically isolated from each other, and the third contact 744 is the third contact 74 4 When vertical pressure is applied to the sensor 16, the first and second contacts 740, 74 The first and second contacts 740 and 742 are in a position to face each other so as to engage with 2. In this configuration, the signal from port 14 is transmitted to the two sensors 16 on the second layer 68. Between electrodes 740 and 742, the electrode 744 of the sensor 16 on the first layer 66 passes through As a result, it is moving. Therefore, the resistivity of sensor 16 is the contact 740 on the second layer 68. , determined by the engagement between 742 and electrode 744 on the first layer 66, and to sensor 16 The relationship between the applied pressure and the resistance value of sensor 16 is described herein. Furthermore, the sensor 16 in the embodiment shown in Figures 3 to 22B, as shown in Figure 27, They are similar. Also, the sensitivity range, starting pressure, and other functions of sensor 16 in Figures 48 to 51 are shown. The functional properties are similar to those of sensor 16 in sensor system 12 shown in Figures 3 to 22B. Shut up.

[0065] The connection at port 14 of the sensor system 712 in Figures 49 to 51 is shown in Figures 3 to 22B. This is similar to the embodiment shown and is schematically illustrated in Figure 20, which It includes a power terminal 104a, a measurement terminal 104b, and four sensor terminals 104c to f. Resistivity / resistance measurement can be completed using the same or similar method as described above. The circuits in the embodiments shown in Figures 48 to 51 are similar to those shown in Figure 20, This embodiment involves two fixed resistors in parallel, as shown in the embodiments of Figures 3 to 22B. It includes only a single fixed resistor 53, not 53 and 54. In addition to this, see Figures 3 to 22B. In this embodiment, each sensor 16 is considered to be five resistors in a parallel state. On the one hand, each sensor 1 in the sensor system 712 shown in Figures 49 to 51 6 is configured in series with three further resistors (contacts 740) in a parallel state. It can be considered as two resistors (contact 742) in a parallel state. In this embodiment, the sensor system 712 shown in Figures 48 to 51 is in a parallel state. Having one fixed resistor or any other resistor configuration as described herein The wiring may be done in this manner. The lead 18 connected to port 14 is on the second layer 68. Since it exists only in this embodiment, the path 50 between layers 66 and 68 is Please understand that it is unnecessary. Therefore, in the sensor system 712 in Figures 48 to 51 The spacer layer 67 does not include holes 38, as shown in the spacer layer 67 in Figures 3 to 22B. That's good too.

[0066] Insert 37 is used on a polymer thin film (such as PET) to support various components It can be constructed by depositing a material. In one embodiment, an insert Path 37 first consists of (dispersed lead 18A, conductive part 51 of path 50, resistors 53, 54 This includes the inner and outer sections 55, 56, etc., of the trace pattern of lead 18. By printing or other means, conductive metallic material is deposited on each of the layers 66 and 68. It is constructed by doing so. Next, the rigid material 60 and resistors of the contacts 40, 42, and path 50. Further carbon material is added by printing or other means to form bridges 57, etc., between vessels 53 and 54. They can be deposited on each of the layers 66 and 68. Then, any dielectric portion Any additional components can be deposited. Layers 66 and 68 are one implementation. In terms of form, it may be printed on a PET sheet, and then after printing It may be cut out to form the outer peripheral shape.

[0067] Port 14 receives data collected by sensor 16 by one or more known methods. It is configured for communication with an external source. In one embodiment, port 1 4 is configured for data communication in a universally readable format. It is a universal communication port. In the embodiments shown in Figures 3 to 22B, Port 14 is shown in Figure 3 in the connection state with port 14, electronic module It includes an interface 20 for connecting to the 22. In addition, this embodiment includes In this case, port 14 is a recess 135 in the central arch or midfoot area of ​​the midsole 131. The housing 24 for inserting the electronic module 22 is located in the same place. As shown in Figures 7 to 16, the sensor lead 18 is connected to port 14. In order to do so, one is formed at its terminal 11 to create an integrated interface 20. It converges to. In one embodiment, the integrated interface has multiple electrical connections Individual sensor leads 18 to the port interface 20, such as those that pass through points It may include connections. In another embodiment, the sensor lead 18 is of a plug type Integrate to form an external interface, such as an interface or another configuration. It is possible to do so, and in a further embodiment, the sensor lead 18 is In a state where each lead 18 has its own separate terminal 11, the unintegrated It can also form an interface. Furthermore, as will be described later, module 22 is a port Interface for connection to the interface 20 and / or sensor lead 18 It may also have face 23.

[0068] In the embodiments shown in Figures 3 to 22B, the interface 20 is an electrical connection It has the form of a point or terminal 11. In one embodiment, the terminal 11 is located in layers 66, 68. From one of the holes, an extending tongue is provided within the hole 27 for the housing 24. Alternatively, it is formed on the extension 21. The extension forms the interface 20. To that end, the ends of lead 18 are integrated into a single area. In the embodiments shown in Figures 3 to 22B. In this case, the extension 21 extends from the second layer 68 into the hole 27 and is located within the housing 24. In order to position terminal 11, and to place interface 20 within housing 24 It is bent downwards within Housing 24 to make it accessible. 2nd Layer 6 8 In this embodiment, in order to increase the length of the extension 21, and the extension 21 In order to allow it to be bent downwards and to extend downwards within the housing 24, The extension 21 further has slits 83 on both sides. The rounded ends of the slits 83 are extensions Resist the formation and / or propagation of cracks and fractures in the material of the second layer 68 around part 21. The extension 21 extends within the housing 24, and the housing 24 Below the lunge 28, and through the slot or other space below the lip 28 And it can pass through. As shown in the embodiments in Figures 31 and 32. When the flange 28 is a separate piece, the extension 21 is in contact with the tab 29 when the flange 28 is in contact with the tab 29. Before being connected, it may be inserted between flange 28 and tab 29. As shown in Figures 3 to 22B. In the embodiment described above, the extension 21 is made from the same polymer thin film material as the second layer 68. It is formed and (for example, formed as a single piece) the second layer 68 and They are integrated. In other embodiments, the extension 21 extends from the first layer 66. It may also include portions connected to both layers 66 and 68, and / Alternatively, it may be formed from separate fragments connected to one or both layers.

[0069] The extension 21 shown in Figures 3 to 22B and Figure 32 reinforces a portion of the extension 21. It has a reinforcing material 81 connected to the extension so as to have strength, rigidity, You can choose from several different materials that provide wear resistance and other reinforcements. For example, the reinforcing material 81 may be acrylic ink or other UV-curable ink. The dielectric material 80 used to insulate between layers 66 and 68 in channel 71 is the same as this material. It can be formed from the following materials. The embodiments shown in Figures 3 to 22B and Figure 32 In this case, the reinforcing material 81 extends along the length of the extension 21 and across the entire width of the extension 21. It has the form of a long strip that extends across. Extension 21 in this embodiment The second layer 68 extends into the hole 27, and the reinforcing material 81 is on the upper surface of the extension 21. It is deposited on top, and as a result on the ends of the lead 18 and spanning them , extends. In one embodiment, the reinforcing material 81 increases the rigidity of the material of the lead 18. It may have rotational rigidity, and in another embodiment, layers 66, 68 are formed. It can also have greater rigidity than thin-film materials.

[0070] In the configuration shown in Figures 3 to 22B and Figure 32, the extension 21 is a terminal 11 is placed inside the housing 24, and thereby inside the housing 24 In order to form the interface 20, as described above, within the recess 135, and the housing It is bent downwards within the 24. As shown in Figure 32, the extension 21 is The extension 21 extends downward along the side wall 25 of the housing 24 around the perimeter of the housing 24. The edge has a bending area 84 that curves downward. The bending area 84 is generally a line It is shaped and extends transversely across the extension 21. In the illustrated embodiment, The reinforcing material 81 has strips of reinforcing material 81 in the bending area 84 and the extension 21 It extends across the transverse direction and is approximately parallel to the bending area 84. It is positioned on the extension 21. In one embodiment, the reinforcing material 81 is elongated It is formed as a rectangular strip, and the reinforcing material 81 covers the entire bending area 84 It has sufficient width to cover. In this position, the reinforcing material 81 is several It provides functionality. One such functionality is that it protects against damage caused by bending of the extension 21. This protects the thin film of the lead 18 and / or extension 21. The function is to reduce friction against the housing 24 in that location, such as in the bending area 8 The thin film of the lead 18 and / or extension 21 is protected from wear and abrasion in 4. Such further functions include adding rigidity and / or strength to the extension 21. The other benefits of the reinforcing material 81 may become apparent to those skilled in the art. In other embodiments, the reinforcing material 81 is positioned, molded, or It may be composed of, or the reinforcing material 81 may, in addition to or instead of, provide strength. In order to impart rigidity, wear resistance, etc., to other components of the sensor assembly 12, It should be understood that it can be used in place. In a further embodiment, reinforcing material 81 may not be used, or the majority of the extension 21 may be covered by the reinforcing material 81. It's fine if it is done.

[0071] The housing 24 is intended to establish a connection between the interface 20 and the module 22. It may include connecting structures such as connecting pins or springs (not shown). In one embodiment, port 14 is connected to an electrical connector 8 that forms the interface 20. Including 2, the interface 20 is as described above and as shown in Figure 32. The connector 82 may include contacts that are attached to each of the multiple terminals 11. The extension 21 and terminal 11 can be connected via a clamping connection. Interface 20 in this configuration is individually connected to one of the multiple sensors 16. The four terminals 11, one terminal that functions as a measurement terminal (104b in Figure 20), and One end functions as a power supply terminal (104a in Figure 20) for applying voltage to circuit 10. It includes seven terminals, which are called child terminals. As mentioned above, the power terminal is instead, in another embodiment In this configuration, the sensor terminals (104c~f in Figure 20) are configured as power terminals. It can also be configured as a grounding terminal. As shown in Figure 12, sensor 16 The configuration of the lead 18 and other components of the sensor system 12 is for the left and right feet. The inserts 37 may be different, and the sensor 16 is on the right insert 3 In comparison with 7, within the left insert 37, it is possible to connect to different terminals 11. Yes, it is possible. In this embodiment, the four first terminals 11 are (potentially in different order) Nevertheless, the 5th, 6th, and 7th terminals 11 are still on both the left and right inserts 37. In a state where the same function is maintained, set aside for connection to sensor 16 This configuration may differ in other embodiments. In this configuration, module 22 is used together with the left or right shoe 100 and insert 37. It can be specially configured to do so. The seventh terminal is an active device such as a unique identification chip. It may be used to supply power to the sesari. In one embodiment, the 6th and 7th terminals 11 extends along the tail 21A that extends from the end of the extension 21. The RI is connected across two terminals on the Tail 21A to supply power to the accessories. It may be there. The accessory is attached via the formation of anisotropic contacts with respect to the tail 22A. Even if it includes a small printed circuit board (PCB) with memory chips Good. In one embodiment, the accessory chip is a footwear article 1, such as a serial number. Not only information that uniquely identifies 00, but also whether footwear 100 is a left or right shoe, Are these shoes for men or women? (For example, running, tennis, basketball, etc.) Important information such as whether it is a specific type of shoe, as well as other types of information. This information may be included. This information may be read by module 22, and also, This data can be used later when analyzing, presenting, and / or editing the data from the survey. The accessories are sealed inside the housing 24 via epoxy or other materials. It is possible.

[0072] Port 14 is adapted for connection to various different electronic modules 22. These electronic modules 22 are memory components (such as flash drives). It can be as simple as a single character, or it can contain relatively complex features. Module 22 is used in personal computers, mobile devices, servers, etc. Please understand that the components may be rough. Port 14 is for saving, sending, and For / or processing purposes, the data collected by sensor 16 is transmitted to module 22. It is configured in such a way. In some embodiments, port 14, sensor 16, and and / or other components of the sensor system 12 are configured to process the data. This is possible. Port 14, sensor 16, and / or other parts of sensor system 12 In addition to this, or instead, the component may include one external device 110 or multiple external devices 110. Configured for direct data transmission to module 22 and / or external device 110 It is also possible to do so. Port 14, sensor 16, and / or other components of sensor system 12 The components may include appropriate hardware and software for these purposes. Please understand that: Examples of housings and electronic modules within footwear items are: U.S. Patent Application No. 1 published as U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2007 / 0260421 As shown in Patent No. 11416,458, the contents of this patent document are, by reference, It is included in the details and constitutes a part of them. Port 14 is connected to module 22. As indicated by the electronic terminals 11 that form the interface 20 for connection, In other embodiments, port 14 is one or more further or alternative communication interfaces It can include a faceplate. For example, port 14 is a USB port, Firewire Includes connections based on ports, 16-pin ports, or other types of physical contacts. It may also or may have Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Near Field Communication, RFID, Bluetooth Low Energy, Zigbee, or other wireless Interfaces for linear communication techniques, or interfaces for infrared or other optical communication techniques. It may include wireless or contactless communication interfaces such as facepieces. In the implementation configuration, the sensor system 12 comprises one or more modules 22 or external devices It may include multiple ports 14 configured for communication with 110. Alternatively, this Alternatively, this configuration can be considered as a single distributed port 14. Example For example, each sensor 16 in the embodiment of the sensor system 812 shown in Figure 61 Thus, it has a separate port 14 for communication with one or more electronic modules 22. It is also possible to use a separate port 14 for wireless or contactless communication as described above. It can be configured for line communication. In one embodiment, each port 14 is , may include an RFID chip having an antenna, and in another embodiment, One or more ports 14 are located somewhere else on the user's body, away from the user's feet. The module 22, which is placed there, utilizes the user's body as a transmission system to send information. This is possible. In this embodiment, port 14 is connected to sensor 16 by lead 18. The leads are connected, and the dashed lead 18 in Figure 61 is a lead on the lower layer of the insert 37. Please understand that this represents 18. Port 14 is, in various embodiments, an insert Between the layers of insert 37, within the hole of insert 37, or above or below insert 37 It can be placed there. A combination of two or more sensors connected to a single port 14 and Please understand that multiple or distributed ports 14 may be used. Further implementation In this state, the sensor system 12 has one or more ports 14 having different configurations. These may include, and these may be combinations of two or more configurations described herein. It can include...

[0073] Module 22, in addition to the above, is as described later and as shown in Figures 6 and 23. As such, one for connecting to external device 110 in order to send data for processing Alternatively, it may have multiple communication interfaces. Such interfaces may have It may include either the contact-type or contactless interface described above. In this case, module 22 is for connection to a computer, and / or module Includes at least a retractable USB connection for charging the battery of the 22. In this context, module 22 is used in devices such as wristwatches, cell phones, and portable music players. It can be configured for contact or contactless connection to mobile devices. 22 may be configured for wireless communication with external device 110, and as a result, device 2 2 can remain inside the footwear 100. However, in another embodiment, Joule 22 is used for data transfer via external devices such as the retractable USB connection mentioned above. Configure to be detached from footwear 100 so that it is directly connected to 110. It is possible. In one wireless embodiment, module 22 is an antenna for wireless communication. It may be connected to a suitable transmission frequency for the selected wireless communication method. It can be molded, sized, and positioned for use in conjunction with [another device]. Furthermore, the antenna is either internally within module 22 or externally within module 22. They can be positioned and arranged. In one example, to form an antenna, (Lead 18 The sensor system 12 itself (including the conductive parts of sensor 16) can also be used. Module 22 is further positioned, positioned, and / or to improve antenna reception. It may be configured as follows, and in one embodiment, the antenna is located on the user's body. A portion can be used. In one embodiment, module 22 is a footway It may be permanently installed within A100, or, instead, the user Depending on the selection, it may be detachable and, as appropriate, remain within the footwear 100. It can also possess power. In addition, as will be described later, module 22 can be removed. It may also be done, and data from sensor 16 may be collected and / or used by another method. Even if replaced by another module 22 programmed and / or configured to do so Good. When module 22 is permanently attached within footwear 100. In that case, the sensor system 12 allows data transfer and / or battery charging, U This may further include external ports (not shown), such as SB or Firewire ports. Module 22 can be configured for both contact and contactless communication. Please understand this.

[0074] Port 14 can be positioned in various locations without departing from the present invention. However, in one embodiment, the port 14 is worn, for example, during exercise activities. When a person steps down on the footwear item 100 and / or by other means In connection with the use of footwear item 100, contact with the wearer's feet and / or irritation It is provided in a position and orientation to avoid or minimize standing, and / or It is structured in other ways. The positioning of port 14 in Figures 3-4 is as follows. This is one example. In another embodiment, port 14 is located at the heel or instep of shoe 100. It is located in the vicinity of the area. Other features of the footwear structure 100 include the wearer's foot and the port Helps reduce or avoid contact between port 14 (or elements connected to port 14). This also allows for an improvement in the overall comfort of the footwear structure 100. For example, as described above and as shown in Figures 3 to 5, the foot contact member 133 is , to fit on port 14 and to at least partially cover it This allows for a layer of padding to be provided between the wearer's foot and port 14. To reduce contact and any undesirable sensations of the port 14 on the wearer's foot Further features for modulation may be used. If necessary, this may deviate from the present invention. Without doing so, an opening to the port 14 is provided through the upper surface of the foot contact member 133. This is possible. Such a configuration provides further comfort and sensory modulation elements. Which other features of the housing 24, electronic module 22, and port 14 are , including structures and / or manufactured from materials that modulate sensation in the user's foot It can be used when it is being used. Without departing from the present invention, in relation to the attached figures In addition to the various features mentioned above, the wearer also includes other known methods and techniques. Low contact between the foot and the housing (or the element that is accepted within the housing) The various features described above help reduce or avoid damage and improve the overall comfort of the footwear structure. Any of the features can be provided.

[0075] Figures 62 to 76 show the port 14 configured for use with the insert member 37. Further diagrams of one embodiment are disclosed. Similar structures described above are shown with the same or similar reference numerals. The designations will be indicated by numbers. The following details this embodiment and its variations. As described and disclosed herein, port 14 is connected to module 22 and It defines and supports an interface 20 for flexible connection of modules. We will discuss module 22 in more detail later. Between port 14 and module 22 Through the movable connection, the data detected by the sensor assembly 12 can be used for further purposes. It can be acquired, stored, and / or processed for analysis.

[0076] As can be seen from Figures 62 to 64, port 14 is generally located in insert assembly 37 It is supported in the middle part. Port 14 is generally part of interface assembly 1 Includes housing 24 supporting 56. As will be described in more detail later, interface assembly The three-dimensional object 156 operates on the extension 21 of the insert member 37, which has a lead 11 on its upper part. They are freely connected. Through such connections, the interface 23 of module 22 An interface 20 has been established for further flexible connection.

[0077] As further shown in Figures 65 to 67, the housing 24 in this embodiment is It includes a base member 140 and a cover member 142. The base member 140 has a side wall 25 and a base The above tab 29 can be used to define the wall 26. The first end of the base member 140 is The base member 1 has a nearly right-angle configuration that receives the extension 21 of the insert member 37. The second end of 40 has a rounded shape. The base member 140 is the first section 144 and Section 146 defines the second section. Section 144 generally defines the opposite in shape. It is dimensionally set to accommodate and to accept module 22, and Section 2 146 accepts and supports the interface assembly 156. The dimensions are set accordingly. The second section 146 is a first lateral section that is in communication with each other. It further has lot 148 and a second lateral slot 150. The first lateral slot 148 is It can extend wider than the second lateral slot 150, and is larger than this. It is not necessary. The housing 24 holds the module 22 within the housing 24. Furthermore, the projection 151 is further defined at the second end. The finger recess 29A is generally a projection 1 It is positioned in the vicinity of 51. The base member 140 cooperates with the cover member 142. It further has a pair of receiving portions 152 for this purpose.

[0078] As further shown in Figures 66-67, the cover member 142 is module 2 It has a central aperture 153 sized to accept 2. Cover member 142 It further has a beam member 154 at the first end, and the second end of the cover member 142 The section has a rounded structure. The beam member 154 is connected to the base member 140 as described. At that time, it overhangs above a portion of Section 144. The back surface of member 142 cooperates with the receiving portion 152 on the base member 140, as described. It has a pair of hanging columnar bodies 155. The outer circumference of the cover member 142 is a lip or flat The range 28 is defined. In one exemplary embodiment, the cover member 142 is the housing The side walls 25 of the ing 24 may have a sagging wall that works in cooperation with the ing 24. In this configuration, the base member 140 has a hanging wall on the cover member 142. To accommodate this, a protrusion can be defined on the side wall.

[0079] Figures 68 to 71 further show the components of the interface assembly 156. The interface assembly 156 is schematically described with reference to Figure 32, etc. It has a carrier 157 that supports the electrical connector 82. The electrical connector 82 each The carrier 157 will work in cooperation with the corresponding contacts on module 22, elastically The electrical connector 82 has a tip that defines a contact supported by the carrier 157. It has a curve and has multiple fingers 158 on its upper part. It has a base end that does so. In one embodiment, the four fingers 158 each have a base end that It is associated with nectar 82, and finger 158 is a petal composition (flower-pet It can be constructed in the following arrangement. The interface assembly 156 further comprises filler material 159 or embedding compound 159. It is possible. Also, the connector end 82A is an insert as shown in Figure 69. Before connecting member 37 to extension 21, it is understood that it has been cut at a predetermined location. I want to.

[0080] As shown in Figures 72-73, the interface assembly 156 is an insert The member 37 is movably connected to the extension 21 which has a lead 11 at its upper part. To achieve this, the finger 158 ensures engagement between the lead 11 and the connector 82. In this position, it is connected to the extension 21. This engagement is shown in Figure 72. This can be observed and understood from Figure 32, and can also be understood from Figure 32. In one embodiment of the application, the finger 158 protrudes through the extension 21, In this case, each of the multiple fingers 158 extends circumferentially through the extension 21. , and is engaged therewith. As further shown in Figure 72, the tail 21A is extended It should be understood that it can be further folded so as to be positioned adjacent to the back surface of part 21. As described, the tail 21A having the sixth and seventh connectors has a PCB member 90 It may be, and this is a connected unique identification chip that functions as described above. It is also acceptable. The extension 21 and the carrier 157 hang from the upper flat surface of the insert member 37. It should be understood that it is positioned in a downward direction. As further shown in Figure 74. The support body 157 is located within the first lateral slot 148 of the base member 140 of the housing 24. It is positioned in such a way. The carrier 157 fits snugly within the first lateral slot 148. It is dimensionally set to fit snugly and be held securely within it. The connector 82 is located within the first section 144 defined by the housing 24. As can be understood from Figures 75-76, filler material 159 or embedding compound 15 9 is an opening 150A (Figure 65) in the base member 140 near the second lateral slot 150. It should be understood that the implantable compound 15 can be injected into the second lateral slot 150. 9 may be a thermosetting plastic in one exemplary embodiment, and one Alternatively, it may be multiple other materials. The embedding compound 159 is a second transverse s A connector 8 filled with lot 150, with the extension 21 held by the carrier 157. It extends around the area that provides a protective connection by being connected to 2. In one embodiment, the embedded compound 159 connects the extension 21 and the port 14. To improve, the desired level of flexibility is maintained. In addition, the embedded compound 159 is moisture-resistant. It can resist impact and vibration while resisting entry and corrosive agents. The base member 140 is , positioned in the insert member 37, in this case the receiving portion 152 is Further understanding is that it is aligned with the corresponding opening 28B through the insert member 37. The cover member 142 is positioned on the upper surface of the insert member 37. In this case, the hanging columnar body 155 fits inside the receiving section 152. (Figures 62-67). To connect the cover member 142 to the base member 140, ultrasonic welding is performed. The work is performed. This connection is similar to the connection of peg 28A, as shown in Figure 31. In other embodiments, this includes snap connections or other mechanical connections. Other connection techniques can be used to connect the cover member 142 to the base member 140. Yes, it is possible. The beam member 154 extends over the interface 20, and in this case, It should be understood that connector 82 is protected within housing 24. The configuration is as described herein, the connection of the port 14 to the insert member 37 It provides a fixed connection and also provides a more flexible connection with module 22. .

[0081] Figures 77 to 90 disclose further illustrations and features of one embodiment of module 22. The following will explain this in more detail. As mentioned above, module 22 is a sensor assembly To collect, store, and / or process the data received from body 12, port 14 is used. It is accepted as such, and is also flexibly connected to it. Module 22 is For this purpose, without limitation, printed circuit boards, power supplies, lighting components, and Surfaces, and various devices including multi-axis accelerometers, gyroscopes, and / or magnetometers. Please understand that it contains various components, including different types of sensors.

[0082] Module 22 generally serves as a contact point for interacting with the interface 20 of port 14. Housing 170 supporting interface 23 having an electrical connector forming This includes, as will be described in more detail later, the interface 23 of module 22 and related The contacts are formed to have a sealed configuration to protect against the ingress of moisture. Module 22 is a dead-front type LED light that is only perceptible visually when illuminating. It further has indicators. Finally, module 22 improves the operation of module 22. It utilizes a unique ground contact surface extender.

[0083] As shown in Figures 79 to 83, the housing 170 of module 22 is interface - Supports the interface assembly 171. The interface assembly 171 has multiple connections. It has a connector 172 and a module carrier 173. The connector 172 each has a module It has a tip that forms a contact that collectively defines the interface 23 of Joule 22. Connector 172 is made of material that defines the module carrier 173. Please understand that it is insert molded so that it is formed around 2. Also, Each part 172A of the culvert 172 (Figure 79) is of an appropriate length for further operational connection. It is understood that the connector 172 is disconnected at the default location so that it can be positioned. The housing 170 generally has an outer base member 175 and an inner base member 176. The module base member 174 is included. The housing 170 has an outer upper member 178 and an inner The module further comprises an upper module member 177 having an upper side member 179. 175, 176, module upper members 178, 179, and interface assembly 17 1 cooperates to provide a sealed configuration around connector 172. Connector 172 is considered to have an over-molded configuration. These components can be connected to the housing 170 and the connector 172. The internal components, including the freely connected printed circuit board 180, support the inner It also forms pores.

[0084] As described, connector 172 is insert molded, in this case, module The rod carrier 173 is formed around the connector 172. Outer base member 17 5 is formed in an injection molding process, etc., and defines an end opening. Please understand that in such processes, the injection molding process and the associated pressures are The connector 172 can be adequately supported within the mold. - The face assembly 171 and the outer base member 175 are placed inside the mold, in this case, The interface assembly 171 is positioned at the end opening and the outer base portion It is supported by material 175. In a further injection molding process, the inner base member 17 Further material is poured into the mold to form 6. The inner base member 176 supports the module. Around the tip of the body 173 and connector 172, and further, the outer base member 1 An internal hole is formed on the surface of 75, defined by the inner base member 176. In this case, as is well known, the printed circuit board 180 is supported within it. It should be understood that connector 172 is movably connected to printed circuit board 180. Further supporting the other components of module 22 within the internal bore Please understand. As will be explained in more detail later, connector 172 is an overmolding process It is constructed using a sealed method.

[0085] Furthermore, the inner upper member 179 and the outer upper member 178 are included in Figures 85-86 and 89- The module upper member 177 shown in Figure 90, in one embodiment, is used in the injection technique It can also be formed by using it. As shown in Figure 88, the inner upper part The material 179 has an aperture 181 through it. The outer upper member 178 is generally, It is a flat member. The inner upper member 179 is positioned on the base member 174, and Furthermore, the outer upper member 178 is positioned on the inner upper member 179. Upper part Material 177 is in contact with the base member 175 to accommodate the internal components of module 22. It continues.

[0086] This structural configuration allows the connector 172 to be sealed to prevent potential moisture from entering. As shown in Figure 84, the carrier 173 is approximately inside the connector 172. On the side surface, it is in a surface-to-surface engagement state with the connector 172. In addition, the inner base The component 176 is located on the outer surface of the connector 172, and is approximately around the connector 172. It is positioned by being positioned. The inner base member 176 is defined by the outer base member 175. It further has an engaging surface 182 that abuts against and engages with the engaging surface 183. Further shown in Figure 84 As shown, with this configuration, the winding curves are represented by extremely thin lines L. A winding path is defined. Such a winding path L minimizes the possibility of moisture entering. For example, when a user runs through a puddle, port 14 and module 22 may be potentially exposed to moisture. Exemplary Embodiment In this case, connector 172 can be considered to be sealed in 5ATM. Near one or more points P in Figure 84, in the vicinity of a winding path L, the module A bonding material (such as adhesive) is applied between the support body 173 and the inner base member 176. It can be used.

[0087] Module 22 should be understood to be accepted within port 14. Module 2 The front end of 2 is inserted through the central aperture 153 and into the first section 144. It is included. Module 22 roughly corresponds in size to Section 144. The dimensions are set so that they fit together tightly. Therefore, interface 23 on module 22 is the interface on port 14. 20 engages operably, and in this case, the individual contacts of interfaces 20 and 23 are, It is in a surface-to-surface contact state. Therefore, this structure is the interface 23 of module 22. However, the port 14 is pressed against the interface 20 in a pressure-contact state. Module 22 is connected to port 14 via a snap connection. To support the retention of module 22 within, the projection 151 of housing 24 is received It may have a recess 184 on the rear surface. The user can use the finger recess 29A to By accessing module 22, module 22 can be easily accessed from the port. It can be removed. Therefore, for charging or data transfer, or for one purpose One type of module 22 is replaced by different types of modules for different applications. When replacing, or when a module has run out of power due to a newly charged module 22 When necessary, such as when replacing module 22, module 22 can be easily inserted into port 14. Along with this, it can be removed from port 14.

[0088] As shown in Figures 85 to 90, module 22 contains illuminated indicia To provide the user with [something], a lighting assembly 185 is provided. The lighting assembly 185 is [something] It is movably connected to the printed circuit board 180. The lighting assembly 185 generally consists of lighting components. Includes 186 and a lighting guide 187. In one exemplary embodiment, the lighting member 186 is While LED lighting components are used, other lighting components can also be used. Lighting component 1 86 has an arched section 188 and is indicated by arrow A1. It is configured to project light in a first direction, such as, the first direction being, an exemplary real The installation configuration may be horizontal. The lighting member 186 is a side-emitting type LED. It can be considered to exist. The lighting guide 187 is configured in the first direction It has a first section 189 that defines route 190. The first section 189 is possible In order to capture as much light as possible from the lighting element 186, the arched shape of the lighting element 186 It has a recessed area that roughly corresponds to and accepts the cushion 188. The first section 189 is opposite the arched section 188 of the lighting member 186. It is located in the vicinity and partially surrounds the lighting component 186. As shown in the figure, Lighting guide 187 diffuses light along an arc by spreading it over a relatively large area. It has a shape that helps to diffuse the light. The lighting guide 187 is configured in the second direction The second section 191 further defines the second route 192. The second route 192 is , extending upward and at a predetermined angle, and therefore different from the first direction In one exemplary embodiment, the second section 191 improves the reflection of light. It is determined to be inclined at an angle of approximately 45 degrees. The second path 192 is the inner upper part It has a tip positioned near the aperture 181 within the material 179. D187 involves adding a dispersant to the resin before injection molding the lighting guide, etc. This can be processed by the following: The lighting member 186 and the lighting guide 187 are in a relative relationship. Because it is constructed in such a way, the component achieves a minimized footprint. This is due to the limited area defined within module 22. , useful. During operation, the lighting member 186 is connected via the printed circuit board 180 as needed. It is activated. Light is projected in the direction indicated by arrow A1. Also, light The light is projected in an arched configuration based on the shape of the lighting guide 187. In these directions, the light is projected into the first path 190. The illumination guide 187 directs the light towards arrow A In direction 2, the light is directed upward into the second path 192. The light is initially directed from the side-illuminating LED. As it is projected, the light moves from direction A1 in a tilted direction towards the second path 192. The transition occurs. Next, the light passes through aperture 181 in direction A2, and outwards The light is emitted through the upper member 178. The shape of the illumination guide 187 is very short, as shown in the figure. It is adapted to evenly distribute light along the path length. Together with the lighting guide 187. The dispersant used disperses light relatively evenly, thereby reducing the amount of light emitted from the lighting component 186. It helps to minimize the concentration of the LED lighting component 186 due to the short path length involved. This would allow it to project light with a relatively focused brightness within a specific area. In this configuration, light is diffused and reflected relatively uniformly, and in this case, Apa A limited light gradient exists across aperture 181. The determined outer upper member 178 has a thickness of material that provides the desired translucency. The amount of coloring agent added is also determined. Therefore, as can be understood from Figures 90 and 91... When the lighting component 186 is not illuminated, the user can see that the LED is inside module 22. It could not be detected that it was present, resulting in a blank or "dead front" It provides a "blank or dead-front appearance". The lighting component 186 is activated. Then, the light follows arrow A1, as indicated by the notation LT in Figure 91, and Upward along arrow A2, and through aperture 181 and outer upper member 178, Guided by the shape and treatment of the lighting guide 187 and the upper component, the light is relatively improved. The light is reflected by this method, thereby crossing the entire area of ​​light illuminating through the upper member. Evenly dispersed light is provided. Furthermore, light is reflected by a relatively improved method. Further structures could be added to achieve this. For example, the lighting guide 187 includes light reflection. To improve this, we can provide a surface texture. The tilt of the lighting guide 187 The wall or other surface can be painted to achieve the desired change in light reflection. Alternatively, it could have a sticker applied to its top surface. Please understand that the lighting component 186 can project light of multiple colors. It provides indicators to notify various parameters, including the battery life of module 22. To provide.

[0089] The structures of port 14 and module 22 described herein are precisely These structures provide a watertight configuration and prevent moisture from entering. Resist. These properties allow for a flexible connection between port 14 and module 22. It is maintained and realized. Also, the engagement point between the finger and the extension is maximized. Accordingly, the finger 158 on the interface assembly is an extension of the insert member 37. 21 provides a stable connection. Filler material 159 has sufficient flexibility and corrosion resistance. Selected to have the desired hardness in order to provide food resistance properties. (Example) In one embodiment, the filler material 159 is in a type A scale of 30 or less. It can have a shore durometer. Filler material 159 is , providing protection around the connection between the extension 21 and the interface assembly 156 The receiving portion / columnar body connection of the housing and insert member 37 is made by insert member 3 To minimize the possibility of 7 rupturing during use, stress relief is provided to the insert member 37. We are offering even more.

[0090] Figures 91 to 94 show further details relating to the module 22 and the associated ground surface extender. The following characteristics are disclosed. Specifically, further embodiments include one or more such as module 22. This relates to maximizing the surface area of ​​one layer of the PCB of an electronic device. In particular, the PCB This relates to an increase in the surface area of ​​the contact layer. Figure 91 is an oblique view of an illustrative PCB1002. The diagram shows that PCB1002 includes a processor, capacitors, and other components without limitation. One or more components including diodes, resistors, and / or combinations thereof. PCB1002 can have the horizontal axis ("x" axis). ) is shown as being flat across, but a person skilled in the art can see that PCB1002 (or, Multiple individual PCBs in a state of freely moving communication form a non-planar structure. You will understand that it can be constructed from a conductive material such as copper. It further has a contact surface layer formed from the material (see 1004). As shown in Figure 91. As shown, the visible portion of the contact layer 1004 is positioned around the periphery of PCB 1002. Although it is determined, each part of layer 1004 is arranged and / Alternatively, you can connect them.

[0091] In certain embodiments, at least one component of PCB1002 is, for example For example, (although not shown in Figures 91-93, it is shown in Figure 94) batteries, etc. It may be possible to configure it to be in a state of seamless communication with a portable power supply. PCB1 002 is a portable device having limited dimensions for a battery or other form of portable power source. It can be configured for placement in the above-mentioned portable device. Batteries are often small and therefore have a limited supply time between charges and / or It may have a limited discharge rate. According to one embodiment, PCB1002 is located in the battery space 1 It may have spaces such as 006. As shown in Figure 91, battery space 10 06 is designed to allow the placement of the power supply adjacent to PCB1002, PCB10 PCB 1002 has areas along the x and z planes. They may be manufactured to dimensions that produce, or to form one or more battery spaces. (Through snap regions and / or regions of alternating thickness, etc.) It is also possible to do so. In this regard, the space used as an example is a battery space, but those skilled in the art will understand that This disclosure is not limited to areas and / or spaces configured to house or position batteries. They will understand that it is not something that will be done.

[0092] The battery space 1006 of PCB1002 is adjacent to three sides of each part of PCB1002. Although shown as a slot configuration, those skilled in the art will know the shape and size of this PCB1002. The shapes and / or configurations shown are for illustrative purposes only, and other shapes may differ from those described herein. It will be easy to understand that it is included in the range. The exact shape and size of the battery space 1006 The terms may be determined by their intended use and are not limited by this disclosure. It is not the case that... Therefore, the only requirement for the battery space 1006 is that it is aligned with the same plane. Furthermore, to allow for the placement of the power supply adjacent to PCB1002, (for example, along the x-axis) (t) This is the inclusion of an area along the horizontal plane of PCB1002. As shown in Figure 94, which shows a side view, batteries such as battery 1008 are connected to PCB 1002 It can be positioned along the horizontal plane (x-axis). Battery 1008 is empty. Since it occupies the area within space 1006, the surface area of ​​PCB1002 is the battery space 1 Compared to PCBs that do not have space, such as 008, it is miniaturized, but instead Furthermore, it includes a relatively large area of ​​the contact surface layer 1004 located within the same spot.

[0093] According to a particular embodiment, the ground surface extender (see, for example, 1010) The grounding layer 1004 of PCB 1002 may be electronically connected. Figure 92 shows one embodiment. An example ground surface extender 1010 is shown. Ground surface extender 101 0 can be formed from any material that effectively increases the surface area of ​​the contact surface layer 1004. In one embodiment, the ground surface extender has copper and / or aluminum. However, in a further embodiment, at least of the ground surface extender 1010 Any conductive material may be used for part of the process. Conductive adhesives, soldering, etc. Through soldering, welding, snap-in, and combinations thereof, extenders In order to allow contact (and / or alignment) between 1010 and the contact surface layer 1004, One or more connectors 1012 can be used. Best shown in Figure 92. Thus, the extender 1010 is adjacent to one side of the battery 1008 (for example, the top). It may be arranged in the manner described above, and substantially along the horizontal (x) axis, the PCB It is parallel to 1002 and therefore flat with it (for example, 1014, etc.) It has a portion, such as the upper region of PCB100. For example, extender 1010 has a portion of PCB100. 2 is movably connected and extends from PCB1002 to the upper region 1016. It may have a vertically oriented protrusion 1016. The upper region 1016 includes a battery 1008. Hmm, one or more apertures that can allow heat exchange from the surrounding components It can have 1018.

[0094] As can be seen in Figure 94, the extender 1010 is on the first surface of the battery 1008 ( For example, shown adjacent to the top surface, and electronically connected to PCB1002. Furthermore, the antenna 1020 is adjacent to the opposite side (for example, the bottom) of the battery 1008. It is positioned in that state. Also, in the illustrative embodiment shown in Figure 94, grounding The surface extender 1010 and antenna 1020 are connected to and mutual with PCB 1002. There are also parallel configurations between them. Therefore, in at least one embodiment, portable devices The first layer has a ground surface extender such as extender 1010, and the battery is small Both are aligned with the same plane as the PCB, which is movably connected to the ground surface extender in part. A second layer having a battery positioned as such, and an antenna such as antenna 1020. It can have three layers, including a third layer. In an exemplary embodiment, the layers are vertical. Although they are arranged perpendicularly, other configurations are also included in the scope of this disclosure. And unless otherwise stated, each layer is adjacent to the adjacent layer. There is no requirement that it be in direct physical contact with the surface. For example, an antenna. The requirement is that 1020 is in direct physical contact with an adjacent surface of battery 1008. It does not exist.

[0095] Figure 6 shows a data transmission / reception system that can be used according to at least some examples of the present invention. Schematic diagram of an illustrative electronic module 22, including data transmission / reception capabilities via stem 107. This shows that the illustrative structure in Figure 6 is integrated into the electronic module structure 22. The data transmission / reception system (TX-RX) 107 is shown, but a person skilled in the art can use a separate component. The component transmits / receives data from the footwear structure 100 or other components. It may be included as part of the structure and / or the data transmission / reception system 107 is In all examples of the invention, the entire structure is housed within a single housing or a single package. You will understand that this is not necessary. Rather, if necessary, the data transmission / reception system Various components or elements of M107 may be used without departing from the present invention. Depending on the method, they may be separate from each other, and may be in different housings. It may be on the substrate and / or separate from the footwear article 100 or other device It may engage with. Various examples of different potential mounting structures will be described in more detail later. do.

[0096] In the example shown in Figure 6, the electronic component 22 is connected to one or more remote systems. In order to send and / or receive data during the period, data transmission / reception requirements It may include element 107. In one embodiment, the transmit / receive element 107 is as described above. A configuration for communication through port 14, such as a contact-type or contactless interface. This is done. In the embodiment shown in Figure 6, module 22 is located at port 14 Includes an interface 23 configured for connection to and / or sensor 16. (See Figure 6) In the module 22 shown, interface 23 is connected to port 14. Therefore, it has contacts that are complementary to terminal 11 of interface 20 of port 14. In other embodiments, as described above, port 14 and module 22 are different The interface 20, 23 of the type may be contact-type or wireless. It may be so. In some embodiments, module 22 is TX-RX element 107 It was understood that it could interface with port 14 and / or sensor 16 through this. Therefore, in one embodiment, the module 22 is located outside the footwear 100. It may be placed there, and port 14 is a wireless transmitter for communication with module 22. It may have an interface. The electronic component 22 in this example is (for example, Processing system 202 (such as one or more microprocessors), memory system 204 , and further including a power source 206 (for example, a battery or other power source). In one embodiment Therefore, the power supply 206 includes a coil or other inductive component, etc., for inductive charging. It can be configured as follows. In this configuration, the footwear item 100 is guided by a pad Alternatively, it may be placed on other induction chargers, thereby enabling module 2 from port 14. By allowing charging without the removal of 2, module 22 is charged. This is possible. In another embodiment, the power supply 206 may, in addition to or instead of, It may also be configured to be charged by using energy harvesting technology. Furthermore, the power supply 206 is charged through the absorption of kinetic energy resulting from the user's movements. It may include devices for energy harvesting, such as chargers.

[0097] Connection to one or more sensors can be achieved as shown in Figure 6. However, pedometer-type speed and / or distance information, other speed and / or distance data centers Information such as temperature, altitude, atmospheric pressure, humidity, GPS data, accelerometer output or data, heart rate, pulse. heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, EKG data, EEG data, (gyroscope-based sensor) Footwear article 1, including data on angles and orientations and changes in angles and orientations. Various different types, such as physical or physiological data related to the use of 00 or the user. Further sensors (shown in the figure) may be used to detect or provide data or information related to the parameters of the parameters. (Not provided) may be provided, and this data may be, for example, transmitted / received by system 1 For transmission to some remote location or system by 07, the memory 204 contains It may be stored and / or made available. If multiple sensors are present, (for example, to detect changes in direction during walking, (For pedometer-type speed and / or distance information, for detecting jump height, etc.) It may also include an accelerometer. In one embodiment, module 22 includes an accelerometer, etc. It may also include a further sensor 208, and the data from sensor 16 is, module Data from the accelerometer 208 can be integrated using the 22 or external device 110, etc. can.

[0098] As further examples, the various types of electronic modules, systems, and methods described above are... This can be used to provide automatic shock damping control for toeware articles. Such systems and methods, for example, actively and / U.S. Patent No. 6,430,843 describes a system and method for dynamically controlling or Specification, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2003 / 0009913, and U.S. Patent Application Publication It can operate as described in Specification No. 2004 / 0177531. (U.S. Patent No. 6,430,843, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2003 / 0009) Specifications No. 913 and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2004 / 0177531 are, respectively (By quotation, all of these are included in and constitute part of this specification.) When used to provide information of the speed and / or distance type, U.S. 5.72 Specification No. 4,265, Specification No. 5,955,667, Specification No. 6,018,705, Specification No. 6,052,654, Specification No. 6,876,947, and No. 6,882,9 The types of detection units, algorithms, and systems described in Specification No. 55 You can use Mu. These patent documents, by reference, all of them This specification includes, as well as further embodiments of sensors and sensor systems, these For footwear articles, sole structures, and components utilizing this, see U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2 As described in specifications 010 / 0063778 and 2010 / 0063779, These patent documents are, by reference, all incorporated herein, and some of them It makes up a portion.

[0099] Furthermore, the electronic module 22 may also include a startup system (not shown). The startup system or a part thereof, together with the other parts of the electronic module 22, or Separately from these, module 22 and, or footwear item 100 (or other The device can be engaged with the starting system, electronic module 22 and / or For example, select at least some functions of the electronic module (such as data transmission / reception functions). It can be used to selectively activate. A startup system may be used, and such various systems are included. The relationship with the various figures will be described in more detail later. For example, sensor System 12 responds to specific patterns, such as continuous or alternating toe / heel taps. The sensor 16 may be activated, and / or may be started and / or stopped. It may also be activated by a button or switch. The button or switch may be located on module 22, on shoe 100. , or on an external device that is in communication with the sensor system 12, not only, but also other It can be placed in the location. In any of these embodiments, System 12 may include a "sleep" mode, and the sleep mode is set After a period of inactivity, the system 12 can be started and stopped. In one alternative embodiment... Therefore, the sensor system 12 operates as a low-power device that does not start or stop. It is possible.

[0100] Module 22, as shown in Figure 23, is further configured for communication with the external device 110. The external device 110 may be configured as an external computer or computer system This may be a mobile device, a game system, or other type of electronic device. The example external device 110 shown in 23 includes a processor 302, memory 304, and a power supply. 306, display 308, user input 310, and data transmission / reception system 108 This includes the transmission / reception system 108, as described above, and anywhere else in this specification. Any type of known communication method, including contact and contactless communication methods described herein. Module 22 via electronic communication, through the transmission / reception system 107 of Module 22 It is configured for communication between and . Module 22 and / or port 14 are various This includes electronic devices of different types and configurations, and is designed to transmit information to other external devices. It is possible to do so, and such data may or may not be further processed. It should be understood that it can be configured for communication with multiple external devices, including intermediate devices. In addition, the transmit / receive system 107 of module 22 has multiple different types of power It may be configured for child communication. The shoe 100 may, if necessary, be powered by a battery, piezoelectric, solar power The sensor 16 may include a separate power source, such as a power source or other device, to operate it. Please understand this further. In the embodiments shown in Figures 3 to 22B, the sensor 16 is a module It is receiving power through the connection to 22.

[0101] As will be described later, such a sensor assembly is an electronic module 22 and / or an external device It can be customized for use with specific software for the 110. The third party, along with the plantar insert having a customized sensor assembly, The software can be provided as a package. Module 22 and / or The entire sensor system 12 is mounted on a module, external device 110, or other component. Sensor 16 or It can work in conjunction with one or more algorithms for analyzing the data obtained.

[0102] During operation, the sensor 16 collects data according to its function and configuration, and the data This is sent to port 14. Then, port 14 is connected to the electronic module 22 and sensor 16. Interface and collect data for later use and / or processing. Allows for this. In one embodiment, the data may be used for various different purposes. To be used, it is accessed and / or used by multiple users for various different purposes. Collected in a universally readable format so that it can be downloaded. , stored, and transmitted. For example, data in XML format It is collected, stored, and transmitted. In one embodiment, module 22 is currently Measurement terminal 10 that reflects the change in resistance value of a specific sensor 16 that is being switched. By measuring the voltage drop at 4b, the circuit 10 shown in Figure 20 can be used The sensor 16 detects pressure changes. Figure 27 shows the pressure-resistance curve in the sensor 16. An example of a line is shown, where the dashed line represents the potential curve due to factors such as the curvature of insert 37. It shows a shift. Module 22 has a starting resistance value R A It may have, and this is, The detected resistance value is required for module 22 to register the pressure on the sensor. The corresponding pressure to produce such a resistance value is the starting pressure P. A It is called that. Startup Resistance value R A Module 22 is a specific starting pressure P for which it is desirable to register data. A to It can be selected accordingly. In one embodiment, the starting pressure P A It is approximately 0 0.15 bar (approximately 15 kPa), approximately 0.2 bar (approximately 20 kPa), or approximately 0.25 bar It may be R (approximately 25kPa), and the corresponding starting resistance value R A It is approximately 100kΩ. It may be. In addition, in one embodiment, the maximum sensitivity range is 150~150 It may also be 0 millibars (15kPa to 150kPa). In one embodiment, Figure The sensor system 12 constructed as shown in Figure 22B is 0.1-7 0.0 bar (or approximately 0.1-7.1 atm) (within the range of 10 kPa-700 kPa) It is possible to detect the pressure, and in another embodiment, the sensor system 1 2, due to its high sensitivity, can detect pressures exceeding this range.

[0103] In different embodiments, the sensor system 12 collects different types of data. It may be configured as follows: In one embodiment (described above), one or more sensors 16 can collect data on the number, sequence, and / or frequency of compressions. For example, system 12 detects walking and jabbing that occur while wearing footwear 100. The number or frequency of the amp, cut, kick, or other compressive forces, as well as the time of contact and the flight Other parameters such as time can be recorded. Quantitative sensors and binary Both on / off type sensors can collect this data. In another example... The system can record the sequence of compressive forces generated by the footwear. This is due to the ability of the foot to pronate or supinate, to shift weight, to strike the foot, or other factors. It can be used for purposes such as determining applicability (as mentioned above). In another embodiment, one or more sensors 16 are located on adjacent portions of the shoe 100. It is possible to quantitatively measure the compressive force, and as a result, the data is quantitative. This may include measuring compressive force and / or impact force on different parts of the shoe 100. The relative difference can be used in determining the weight distribution of the 100 shoes and the "center of pressure". Yes, it is possible. The center of weight distribution and / or pressure is the center of pressure or weight distribution within the person's entire body. To calculate independently for one or both shoes 100, for example, to find the center of the fabric. This is possible, or it can be calculated together for both shoes. Further implementations In this state, one or more sensors 16 measure the rate of change of compression force, contact time, (ja The time between flight time or impact (in a amp and running, etc.) and / or time-dependent. The parameters may be measurable. In any embodiment, the sensor 16 is as described above. Therefore, before registering a force / impact, a specific threshold force or impact is required. Please understand what is possible.

[0104] As mentioned above, the data is available to applications, users, and programmers who can use the data. To make the number of programs virtually unlimited, through Universal Port 14, It is provided to module 22 in a universally readable format. Therefore Port 14 and module 22 can be configured and / or programmed by the user as needed. The program is programmed, and port 14 and module 22 are connected to the sensor system 12. The input data is received, and this data can be used in any desired manner for different purposes. Module 22 can be used. Through the use of a separate chip 92, the received data is related to either the left or right shoe. It may be possible to recognize whether it is being kicked. Module 22 will recognize the L / R shoes and The data can be processed using this method, and the data is from the L / R shoes. The data can also be transmitted to an external device 110, along with identification of whether or not it exists. Similarly, device 110 processes data in different ways based on the identification of the left and right shoes. It can be handled by or by other means. For example, terminal 11 and The connection of the sensor 16 to the surface 20 is as shown in Figure 12, and above As described above, there may be differences between the left and right inserts 37. Left insert 3 The data from 7 is in a different format from the data from right insert 37, according to this configuration. Therefore, it can be interpreted that module 22 and / or electronic device 110 are uniquely identifiable. Perform similar operations in relation to other identification information included on chip 92. It is possible. In many applications, the data is module 22 and / or further processed by external device 110. External device 110 further processes the data In this configuration, module 22 can transmit data to external device 110. The transmitted data is in the same universally readable format. It may be transmitted, or it may be transmitted in another format, and the module Code 22 may be configured to change the data format. In addition to this, Module 22 then collects data from sensor 16 for one or more specific applications. They can also be configured and / or programmed to collect, utilize, and / or process. In one embodiment, module 22 collects data used in multiple applications. It is configured to be used and / or processed. Examples of such uses and applications are: As provided below, the term “use” as used herein is defined as “ Generally, it refers to a specific use, and not necessarily the case that this term is used in the computer technology field. It means that it is used in computer program applications. It is not intended to do so. However, if a specific use is intended for a computer program application... It may be implemented in whole or in part.

[0105] Furthermore, in one embodiment, module 22 is removed from footwear 100. It is possible to do so, and it is configured to operate in a manner different from that of the first module 22. The second module 22 that has been created can be used for replacement. For example, the replacement can be used for the foot contact portion. Lift material 133, disconnect the first module 22 from the first port 14, and the first Remove module 22 from housing 24, and then remove the second module 22 from housing Insert it into the 24 and connect the second module 22 to port 14, and finally, the foot This is achieved by placing the contact member 133 back in its original position. The second module 22 is It can be programmed and / or configured in a different manner than Module 122. In one embodiment, the first module 22 is used for one or more specific applications. The second module 22 may be configured to be used in a manner in which one or more different It may be configured to be used in the following applications. For example, the first module 22 is It may be configured for use in one or more game applications, and the second module Even if the 22 is configured to be used in one or more exercise performance monitoring applications Good. In addition, module 22 is used in different applications of the same type. It may be configured as follows. For example, the first module 22 is a game or athletic performance monitor The second module 22 may be configured for use in visual applications, and the second module 22 may be different It may be configured for use in games or for monitoring athletic performance. Another example is Module 22 is configured for different uses in the same game or for performance monitoring purposes. It may be done. In another embodiment, the first module 22 contains one type of data The second module 22 may be configured to collect other types of data. It may be configured to collect quantitative force and / or pressure measurements, relative force and / or measurement of pressure (i.e., sensor 16 in relation to each other), weight shift / movement, (foot This includes impact sequences (in striking patterns, etc.), rates of change of force and / or pressure, etc. Examples of this type of data are described herein. Further implementation In terms of form, the first module 22 is configured in a different manner from the second module 22. It may be configured to utilize or process data from the sensor 16. For example, module Code 22 may be configured solely for the purpose of collecting, storing, and / or transmitting data. Alternatively, module 22 can edit data, change the format of data, and perform calculations using data. This involves configuring the system to process the data further in some way, such as by executing a command. It is also possible. In yet another embodiment, module 22 has different communication interfaces It may have a chair, or be configured to communicate with different external devices 110, etc. It can be configured to communicate using different methods. Module 22 is similar This includes both structural and functional aspects, such as using different power sources, or (for example) Further or different hardware such as the aforementioned additional sensors (such as GPS, accelerometer, etc.) In other embodiments, including components, it can also function in a different manner. Cut.

[0106] One anticipated use for the data collected by System 12 is weight shift. This is in the measurement of golf swings, baseball / softball swings, etc. , hockey swing (ice hockey or field hockey), tennis swing, It is important in many athletic activities, such as throwing / pitching a ball. The pressure data collected by System 12 is used in techniques applicable to any field of motion. Provide valuable feedback on balance and stability, which will be used to improve the system. This can be done. Based on the intended use of the data collected in this way, It is understood that this allows for the construction of a sensor system 12 that is both expensive and complex. I want to.

[0107] The data collected by System 12 is used to measure various other athletic performance characteristics. It can be used. The data includes the degree and / or speed of pronation / supination of the foot, and the striking power of the foot. It can be used to measure turns, balance, and other such parameters. It is possible, and these parameters apply to running / jogging or other exercise activities. It can be used to improve the technique. Also, in relation to pronation / supination, The analysis of the data can be used as a predictor of pronation / supination. Monitoring of speed and distance. It is possible to perform this, and this applies to pedometers such as contact measurement or loft time measurement. This may include measurements based on contact or loft time measurement. The height of the jump can also be measured by using (t). Lateral cutting force, including differential force applied to different parts of shoe 100 during cutting It can measure. In addition, the sensor 16 detects when the foot is sliding laterally inside the shoe 100. It is also possible to position the device to measure shear force. For example, on the side To detect the force acting upon it, additional sensors are embedded in the side of the upper part 120 of the shoe 100. can.

[0108] Data, or measurements derived therefrom, can represent speed, power, speed, consistency, technique, etc. It may be useful for exercise training purposes, including improvement. Port 14, module 22, and / or external device 110 provides active real-time feedback to the user. It can be configured to grant, for example, port 14 and / or module The 22 system uses computers and mobile devices to transmit results in real time. It can be arranged in a communication state with any of the others. In another example, one or more vibrations The elements may be contained within the shoe 100, and as a result, by reference, they are included herein. Disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 6,978,684, which is included in and constitutes part of the same. Features such as those mentioned above, involve vibrating a part of the shoe to support controlled movements. And, feedback can be provided to the user. In addition, the data is To demonstrate consistency, improvement, or lack thereof, compare the exercise to the user's past exercises, or This involves comparing the user's movements to the same movements of another person, such as a professional golfer's swing. It can be used to compare the movements of exercises, as shown above. Furthermore, System 1 2. Records biomechanical data for athletic activities, which are the "signature" of athletes. It can also be used for gaming purposes or by the user. For use in shadowing applications where movements are overlaid on similar movements, etc. It may be provided to other persons for use in copying and simulation. Hello.

[0109] Furthermore, System 12 records the various activities that the user engages in during the day. It can also be configured for tracking daily activities. System 12 is configured for this purpose. Inside module 22, external device 110, and / or sensor 16, special A It can include argolism.

[0110] Furthermore, System 12 is used for control purposes, not for data acquisition and processing. It is also possible that the system 12 will be able to detect the user by the sensor 16. Based on the movement, external devices such as computers, televisions, and video games 110 To be used when controlling footwear, or other articles that experience physical contact. It can be built into it. In fact, the built-in sensor 16 and universal port 1 Footwear having leads 18 extending up to 4, the footwear is an input system It is permitted to function as such, and the electronic module 22 receives input from the sensor 16. It accepts force and, for example, entrusts this input to a control input for a remote system. To configure, program, and adapt for use in the desired manner Yes, it is possible. For example, shoes with sensor control, like a mouse, can be used for computers, or , used as a control or input device for programs run by a computer. It is possible to do so, and in this case, (for example, a tap of the foot, two taps of the foot, a tap of the heel) P, two heel taps, foot movement from one side to the other, foot direction indication, foot flexion Specific foot movements or gestures (such as page down, page up) Computer shortcuts (such as up, undo, copy, cut, paste, save, and exit) It is possible to control the specified actions. For this purpose, different foot gestures are used. Software can be provided to be assigned to computer function control. The rating system receives and recognizes control input from the sensor system 12. It is assumed that it can be configured in this way. This method allows television or other external power It can control the sub-device. Also, the footwear 100 which incorporates system 12 is N Similar to the Wii controller, the Willo and Game Pro It can be used within grams, and in this case, specific movements have specific functions. It is possible to assign and / or a virtual representation of the user's movements on the display screen. Specific movements can also be used to generate expressions. For example, balance, body In gaming applications that may involve heavy shifting and other performance activities, The system can use the center of pressure data and other weight distribution data. 12 is intended as the sole controller for games or other computer systems, or It can be used as a complementary controller. It can also be used as a control device for external devices. Using a sensor system for footwear items, as well as foot gestures for such control For an example of configurations and methods using the char, see U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 611138,048. As illustrated and described in the specification, this patent document is entirely based on the facts of this specification. This is included in the specification. Below, various methods are used to control one or more systems. Further embodiments utilizing gestures are described in more detail, and for tension adjustment systems. This is illustrated in Figures 95 to 99, which show control based on gestures.

[0111] In addition, system 12 is connected to and / or external device 110 It can also be configured to communicate directly with the controller. As described above, Figure 6 shows one embodiment for communication between the electronic module 22 and an external device. In another embodiment shown in Figure 23, the system 12 is an external game device. It can be configured for communication with 110A. The external game device 110A is shown in Figure 6. Includes components similar to the example external device 110 shown. Also includes external game equipment The 110A unit is for (for example, cartridges, CDs, DVDs, Blu-rays, or other A game medium 307 containing a game program (such as a storage device), It is configured to communicate via wired and / or wireless connections through the transmitting / receiving element 108. The system includes at least one remote controller 305. The illustrated embodiment is The controller 305 complements the user input 310, but in one embodiment, The controller 305 can function as the sole user input. In this embodiment In this system, the system 12 is equipped with an external device to enable communication with module 22. USB plug-in configured to connect to 110 and / or controller 305 Accessory devices 303, such as wireless transmitters / receivers, are provided. In one embodiment, the accessory device 303 includes the controller 305 and the external device 1 One or more additional controllers of the same and / or different types as those in 10. System 12 can be configured to connect to an external device, (for example) If, for example, if it includes other types of sensors as described above (such as accelerometers), then such further The sensor may be incorporated into the control of a game or other program on the external device 110. Please understand this.

[0112] External devices 110, such as a computer / game system, communicate with system 12. We can provide other types of software as much as possible. For example, game programming Ram changes the attributes of in-game characters based on the user's actual life activities. It may be configured in such a way that it encourages users to exercise or engage in larger-scale activities. It is possible. In another example, the program collects data from a shoe detection system. User avatars that function in relation to, or in proportion to, user activity. It can be configured to display a tar. In such a configuration, the avatar is When the user is active, such as in an excited or energetic state, In addition to appearing, the avatar will appear sleepy or lazy if the user is inactive. It may appear depending on the condition, etc. Also, the sensor system 12 is the athlete's "signature" It can also be configured for relatively thorough detection in order to record data describing "movement." This is a capability, and this then applies to various aspects within game systems or modeling systems, etc. It can be used for various purposes.

[0113] A single footwear article including the sensor system 12 described herein 100 may be used alone, or as part of a pair of shoes as shown in Figures 24-26. A second foot with its own sensor system 12', such as 00, 100', It can also be used in combination with the item 100' of the second shoe 100'. The sensor system 12' is generally connected to the electronic module 22' by the sensor lead 18'. Includes one or more sensors 16' connected to port 14' that is in communication mode. (Figure 24~) The second sensor system 12' of the second shoe 100' shown in Figure 26 is the same as the first shoe 100'. It has the same configuration as the sensor system 12. However, in another embodiment, the shoe 100 , 100' may have sensor systems 12, 12' having different configurations. Both shoes 100 and 100' are configured for communication with an external device 110. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, each of the shoes 100 and 100' is connected to an external device 11 It has electronic modules 22, 22' configured to communicate with 0. In another embodiment, In this configuration, both shoes 100, 100' are configured for communication with the same electronic module 22. It may have ports 14, 14'. In this embodiment, at least Even if one shoe 100, 100' is configured for wireless communication with module 22, Figures 24 to 26 show various modes for communication between modules 22 and 22'. It is.

[0114] Figure 24 shows the "mesh" communication mode, in which case the module 22 and 22' are configured for mutual communication and also independent of the external device 110. It is also configured for communication. Figure 25 shows the "daisy-chain" communication mode. In this case, one module 22' is externally mounted through the other module 22. It is communicating with unit 110. In other words, the second module 22' (may contain data) It is configured to transmit signals to the first module 22, and the first module 22 It is configured to transmit signals from both modules 22, 22' to the external device 110. Similarly, the external device transmits a signal to the first module 22, thereby enabling the second The first module 22 transmits a signal to the second module 22'. It communicates with. Also, in one embodiment, modules 22 and 22' transmit signals externally. It is also possible to communicate with each other for purposes other than transmission between the devices 110 and each other. 26 indicates the "independent" communication mode, in which case each module 22, 22' is configured for independent communication with the external device 110, and is a module 22 and 22' are not configured for mutual communication. In other embodiments, The sensor systems 12, 12' communicate with each other and / or with external devices in a different manner. It can be configured for communication with 110.

[0115] The embodiment includes one or more gestures that can be detected using one or more sensors. By using movement, motion, action, or other behavior, various systems It may include equipment for controlling the device, apparatus, and other components. The gestures or movements used include, without limitation, heel clicks, toe taps, and heel movements. Tap, stomp, tap the toe of one shoe against the heel of the corresponding shoe, or other methods By law, by making contact, by tapping the sole of one shoe against the forefoot of the other shoe, or by other means Making contact with the ground, tapping the lateral or mid-lateral edge of the sole of the foot on the ground, The act of pointing the toes of the shoe in a predetermined direction, the movement of the foot from one side to the other, and the bending of the foot. It may also include other types of gestures or movements. Some embodiments of the use (e.g., tapping the toe or heel) provide commands As a single gesture, a single tap, two taps, three taps, or any Please understand that other tap counts may be available. Furthermore, please refer to other example graphics. A "Scha" can include any combination of the gestures and movements listed above. It is possible. In one embodiment, for example, the toe is tapped, and then the heel is tapped. This can be considered a gesture.

[0116] Any such gesture, movement, or motion may trigger one or more detected gestures. Based on or motion, one or more systems, devices, or other components It can be used as an input to the "gesture control system" that is being controlled. The embodiments shown in Figures 95 to 100 are provided in the form of foot-based gestures or movements. The tension adjustment device inside the footwear item moves according to commands from the user / wearer. This shows a gesture-based control system used to perform actions.

[0117] Furthermore, the embodiments are intended for the control of one or more systems or devices, using gestures or This determines whether the movement was intentional or unintentional. It may include equipment for determining [something]. In some embodiments, gesture control The system actively responds to user commands based on one or more gestures. A mode that has the ability to "listen for" or to detect it. It can be configured in such a way. Such a mode can be called "enabled mode". Yes, it is possible. When the system is in this mode, the system will not detect any detected The gesture (i.e., a toe tap) can be interpreted as a command or instruction from the user. Yes, it is possible. However, if the system is not in this mode, the user must issue a command or instruction. Assuming that they were not issued intentionally, the system will not issue all gestures The detection can be ignored. When not in enabled mode, the system enters "disabled mode". It may be the default gesture ("enabling gesture") or "facilitating gesture". The detection of a "prompting gesture" indicates that the command is ready. You can activate armed mode, but this default gesture is In disabled mode, it may be the only gesture that the system does not ignore. In this case, the disabled mode may be called the first mode, while the enabled mode is It could also be called the second mode, because the command is activated first, (default Transition from the first mode to the second mode (using gestures), and then to the control gestures This is because it requires the activation of a command.

[0118] Figure 95 shows an embodiment of how various commands or instructions can be submitted to a gesture control system. This is a schematic diagram of various possible sequences of gestures or movements for use. Figure 95 shows the first footwear article 1102 and the second footwear article 2 in the footwear system. The footwear article 1104 shows various moments or configurations. Some gestures One item is accompanied by both footwear items, while the other is a single item. It may only be accompanied by goods (and in some cases, between a single item and the ground). (This may include contact.)

[0119] Each sequence prompts the system to switch from disabled mode to enabled mode. It can be seen that it is initiated by a starting or activation gesture (for example, an initial gesture The command functions to "arm" or "prompt" the system. (It is shown). For clarity, this embodiment in Figure 95 uses a heel click gesture 1110. This shows the activation gesture in this form, which starts from the default pose 1112. Furthermore, firstly, with the heels separated (as shown by moment 1114) Swing, and then (as shown by moment 1116) the heels become one We are moving on to clicking. This initial heel click gesture is a variety of gestures To enable the acceptance of the input, activate the gesture control system. It functions as follows.

[0120] In this exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 95, the heel click gesture 111 0 acts as a facilitating gesture to activate the system. The system is enabled. All other gestures or movements detected while not being processed are included in this particular implementation. In terms of form, it will be ignored. However, in other embodiments, the facilitating agent A gesture or activation gesture is any of the various gestures listed above. Furthermore, any other gesture, including any combination of such gestures That would be fine too.

[0121] Referring to the lower part of Figure 95, several different possible follow-up gestures are shown. These will be executed after the heel click gesture 1110. In some cases, after performing the heel click gesture 1110, the first foot The toewear article 1102 and the second footwear article 1104 are capable of performing the following gestures. Before being performed, it may be positioned in another default orientation 1118.

[0122] As one example gesture, the toe tap gesture 1120 is (moment 1130 (as shown by) lift the article and (as shown by moment 1132) This includes tapping your toes against the ground (as if you were doing so). Another example gesture and Then, the heel tap gesture 1122 is (as shown by moment 1134) Lift the heel of the item, and (as shown by moment 1136) the heel relative to the ground. This includes tapping. As another example gesture, the first two-legged gesture 1 124 (as shown by moment 1138) places one article above the other The article was lifted and (as shown by moment 1140) located on the ground. This includes making contact with the forelegs of one foot by the sole of the other foot. As another illustrative gesture, the second The two-legged gesture 1126 is performed by (as shown by moment 1142) one of the items Move it behind the other, and (as shown by moment 1144) on the ground This includes making contact with the heel of the positioned article by the toe of the other hand. In other embodiments, the command or control gesture may be another heel click. It would be. In other words, the first heel click is a system (which functions as a facilitating gesture). While the system can be activated, a second system is performed while the system is already activated. The heel click is a command such as a command to sufficiently release tension within the system. It will likely be interpreted as a Scha.

[0123] Figure 96 is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of footwear article 1200. Article 1200 is It may include an upper part 1202 and a sole structure 1204. Also, footwear articles The 1200 may also include a tension adjustment system 1220 and a sensor system 1230. can.

[0124] The tension adjustment system consists of a tension adjustment member, a tightening cord guide, a tension adjustment assembly, and a housing unit. It may have a reel, motor, gears, spool or reel, and / or a power supply. Such components allow for fastening, tension adjustment, and customization to the wearer's foot. These components can help provide a proper fit for the wearer of the item. It can be fixed to the foot, the tension can be adjusted, and a customized fit can be provided. It may be provided.

[0125] In some embodiments, the tension adjustment system may include a tension adjustment member. Throughout this detailed description and in the claims, the term "tension adjustment" is used. The term "member" generally refers to any member having a long shape and high tensile strength. It refers to a component. Also, in some cases, the tension adjustment member is one They may generally have small elasticity. Examples of various tension adjustment members are limited. Without, including fasteners, cables, straps, and cords. In some cases The tension adjustment member secures articles, including clothing and / or footwear articles, and / Alternatively, it can be used to tighten. In other cases, the tension adjustment member is To operate several components or systems, tension is set to a predetermined value. It can be used to apply in a specific location.

[0126] Embodiments of the tension adjustment system 1220 are described in Beers et al., 2013. The application was filed on August 20th of that year, and also concerns a "motorized tensioning system (Mo U.S. Patent with the name "torized tensioning system" The specification in publication No. 2014 / 0068838, i.e., the current U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 01 Patent No. 4,491, filed by Beers on August 20, 2013. Furthermore, the "Motorized Tensioning System with Sensors (Mo torized Tensioning System with Sensors)” The U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0070042, which has the name of the current U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 014,555, and by Beers The application was filed on September 20, 2013, and also states "Footwear Having Remover Motorized Adjustment System (Footwear Having Removable Motorized Adjustment System) The specification, published in the United States Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0082963, has the name of the present invention. Disclosed in one or more of the specifications of U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 032,524 Any of the systems, components, features, elements, methods, and / or processes that are being described It may also include any suitable tension adjustment system, including the incorporation of these features All of the permitted documents are incorporated herein by reference. (collectively referred to as "automatic lacing cases").

[0127] Referring to Figure 96, the tension adjustment system 1220 consists of a tension adjustment device 1222 and a tension adjustment device. The tension adjustment device 1222 may include a tension adjustment system 1. Within 220, one or more hands for automatically increasing or decreasing the tension of the tightening cord. It may include steps or other tension-adjusting members. As will be described in more detail later, Such a method includes a motor, a spool for winding up the tightening cord, and a power supply means (for example) It can include batteries.

[0128] Figure 97 includes an enlarged schematic view of some components of the tension adjustment device 1222. The force adjustment device 1222 comprises a reel member 1300 (or spool), a motor 1302, It may include a power supply 1304. Therefore, the power supply 1304 powers the reel member 1300. Power can be supplied to the motor 1302 to make it rotate. In some embodiments In this case, the motor 1302 and the reel member 1300 use the gear assembly 1306. This allows for further combination.

[0129] In some embodiments, the motor 1302 may include an electric motor. However, in other embodiments, the motor 1302 is any known in the art. It may have non-electric motors of various types. Examples of the various motors that can be used are limited to Without the need for (permanent magnet motors, brushed DC motors, brushless DC motors, DC motors (such as switching reluctance motors), (motors with sliding rotors) AC motors (such as synchronous electric motors, asynchronous electric motors, induction motors, etc.) Not only universal motors, stepper motors, and piezoelectric motors, but also known in this field Includes any other type of motor.

[0130] Motor 1302 is used to drive one or more components of the tension adjustment system. It may further include crankshafts that can be used. For example, the crankshaft of motor 1302 The shaft may drive the gear assembly 1306, and the gear assembly 1306 is a reel It is also connected to member 1300. According to this configuration, the reel member 1300 has a central axis The motor 1302 is positioned to communicate with the motor so that it rotates in the opposite direction with the center as its core. It is possible.

[0131] Power supply 1304 is configured to supply power to and control motor 1302. It may include a pond and / or a control unit (not shown). Power supply 1304 is One that can be used to supply power to the power motor 1302 and the tension adjustment system 1220. Alternatively, any suitable battery of any type of battery technology may be used. A capable battery technology is the lithium polymer battery. One battery (or more batteries) is a lithium polymer battery. Packaged as rat, cylindrical, or coin-shaped, rechargeable or replaceable. It may be a capable unit. In addition, the battery may be a single cell. Alternatively, it may be multiple cells in series or parallel. Other suitable electricity The pond and / or power supply can be used for power supply 1304.

[0132] The tension adjustment device 1222 may be located within the sole structure 1204. In this embodiment, the sole structure 1204 has a hole or recess for receiving the tension adjustment device 1222. It may include parts. In other embodiments, the tension adjustment device 1222 is article 1 It can be fixed in other areas of 200, including, for example, Harne This includes devices that are externally fixed to the top surface 1202 using a sieve or other mounting equipment. It can be done.

[0133] At least a portion of the tension adjustment member 1224 is, as observed in Figure 97, It may be wound onto the member 1300. Furthermore, the tension adjustment member 1224 is a tension adjustment device Access to the tension adjustment device 1222 through one or more openings in the housing of the device 1222. It can also enter or exit. When detached from the tension adjustment device 1222, the tension adjustment member 1 224 is through Tablet 1202 and across one or more areas of Tablet 1202, It can be guided. In the embodiment shown in Figure 96, the tension adjusting member 1224 controls the tension. As the adjustment member 1224 is wound onto the reel member 1300, the fixed area 1250 The top of the foot or the fixed area 1250 of the upper part 1202 is positioned so that it is tightened around the foot. It is guided along the back-and-forth direction.

[0134] The configuration of the elements shown in Figures 96-97 controls the tension adjustment device 122 Configured to provide to 2 (or directly to the motor 1302 in the tension adjustment device 1222) In any system that is constructed, the tension adjustment member 1224 is wound onto the reel member 1300. Alternatively, the tension of article 1200 can be controlled by unwinding it. I want you to understand what I can do.

[0135] The sensor system 1230 includes not only one or more sets of sensors, but also one or more sensors One or more control units or (e.g., wires or electrical components) required to use the sensor. It can be configured as other peripheral components (such as a source). In one embodiment, the sensor system 1230 includes a sole sensor system 1232. This has a set of sensors arranged within the sole structure 1204. Several embodiments In this state, the sole sensor system 1232 is as described above and as shown in Figure 1. It may be similar to sensor system 12. Also, sensor system 1230 is shown in Table 1202. It may also include one or more sensors related to the above. These sensors are as shown in Table 1202. Heel sensor 1236 within heel region 1208 and forefoot of upper part of forefoot region 1209 of upper surface 1202 It may include a sensor 1238. Specific configurations of the plantar sensor and the instep sensor are shown. However, in other embodiments, any number of sensors are located in the area of ​​the sole structure 1204. It is understood that it will be located within the area and / or within any area of ​​Table 1202. Please understand. The illustrative sensors used within the sensor system 1230 are limited in scope. Without any effort, not only contact sensors and angular velocity sensors (i.e., gyro sensors), but also other This also includes the types of sensors.

[0136] By placing two or more sensors at various locations on item 1200, the gestures The control system is shown, for example, in Figure 95, and the various gestures described above. It can have the ability to detect various foot-based gestures or movements, including cha. For example, by using the heel sensor 1236, the gesture control system can detect the heel area. When area 1208 is kicked or tapped by the toe of the corresponding article, and / or the heel When the rick is executed by the corresponding item, it can be detected. Similarly, the forelegs By using sensor 1238, the gesture control system responds to the forefoot area 1209 It can also detect contact with the corresponding item by the sole of the foot or other part. The various sensors of the plantar sensor system 1232 detect pressure on the foot from among these sensors. When applied to one or more, toe tap, heel tap, or other gestures It can also be used to detect chats.

[0137] Furthermore, for illustrative purposes, Figure 96 also shows a standalone control unit 1260. In some embodiments, this accommodates the logic of a gesture control system. It can be considered that it is doing so. In such an embodiment, the control unit 12 60 is connected to the sensor system 1230 and to the tension adjustment device 1222 (wired or wireless). The communication state (of the line) may also be present. However, in other embodiments, the gesture control system The stem logic is any component of the sensor system and / or tension adjustment system Please understand that it is built into the components of the tension adjustment device.

[0138] Tension adjustment device 1222 and associated control unit 1260 and / or separate onboard control The system of this embodiment, including the unit shown in Figures 95 to 100, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 1 by Pheil The detailed number, that is, the current At point, filed on December 1, 2015, and "Automated Tens Shoeing System Fore Article of Footwear (An Automa ted Tensioning System for an Article of U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 955,705, which has the name "Footwear" The systems, sensors, and components disclosed in the document for handling tension adjustment control logic This patent document may utilize any of the following: a line, method, and / or process. All of the above are incorporated herein by reference.

[0139] Figure 98 shows a tension adjustment device controlled according to any input corresponding to the gesture or movement of an article. It may be performed by any component, device, or system configured to control This is a schematic diagram of the process. For clarity, in relation to Figure 98, this specification is used. In the embodiments described herein, the process is performed by a gesture control system. It is assumed that this will be performed. However, in other embodiments, one or more The step applies to any component, system, and / or device of the footwear article. Therefore, it will be carried out. In some cases, some steps are taken with respect to the article. Executed by a remote device or system that is wirelessly communicating with the system installed on it. It is likely.

[0140] In step 1400, the gesture control system enables the gesture (or prompts) It can detect (movement gestures). This is possible not only with contact sensors and force sensors, but also with angle sensors. This can be done by using one or more sensors, including a speed sensor. Next, in step 1402, while the system is active, the gesture control system The system can detect control gestures. The gesture control system then... Step 1404 controls the tension adjuster according to the detected control gesture. It is possible.

[0141] Figure 99 is a schematic diagram of a more detailed process that can be performed by the gesture control system. In step 1500, the gesture control system uses one or more sensors It receives information from. As mentioned above, such sensors are contact sensors and / or This could be any type of sensor associated with an object, including an angular velocity sensor. Furthermore, As mentioned above, the step can be placed in various different locations on the item. In P1502, the gesture control system detects an "activation gesture". It is determining whether or not to enable it. The enable gesture provides two tension adjustment commands. The default gesture that the system recognizes as the first gesture in a gesture sequence It is a gesture. An example of an activation gesture might be a heel click, but other implementation forms are also possible. In this state, the activation gesture can be any default gesture or movement. The gesture control system receives information generated by one or more sensors. Furthermore, this information is analyzed to determine whether an activation gesture occurred. Please understand that this is the case. Subsequently, this measured or detected information is used during the activation gesture. Compare with a predetermined set of information known to be generated by one or more sensors. It is possible.

[0142] If no activation gesture is detected, the system returns to step 1500 and Continue receiving information from one or more sensors. Activation gesture detected. If so, the system proceeds to step 1504, in which case the system enters the active mode, and then , any new that can correspond to actual control gestures (also called command gestures) To continue receiving information from one or more sensors, proceed to step 1506. nothing.

[0143] In some embodiments, the system enables the gesture control system to enter an active mode. A timeout mechanism can be included to prevent it from remaining indefinitely. When the system enters the active mode in step 1504, the second gesture is performed for a predetermined amount of time. If not detected within the interval, the system will automatically switch from active mode to idle mode. It can be turned off (i.e., it can exit the active mode). The time interval can be set to any value. In one illustrative embodiment... In this case, the system can time out after 5-10 seconds. Therefore, the system M determines whether a timeout occurred and, consequently, whether to return to step 1500. In order to determine whether (i.e., whether the system will be reset) step 1508 is performed. It has passed. If it does not return to step 1500, the system proceeds to step 1510. move on.

[0144] In step 1510, the system (received in step 1506) Whether any new detection information corresponds to a known control gesture (or control motion). It can check if it is supported. If it is not supported, the system will time out. However, until it occurs at some point in step 1508) in step 1506 Continue receiving new information from the system. Control gestures while the system is active. If the system detects that this has been performed, the system proceeds to step 1512. .

[0145] In step 1512, the system performs an action corresponding to the detected control gesture or It is receiving control commands. In other words, the system is based on the information received from the sensors. Next, it checks which command should be sent to the tension adjustment device. Step 151 In step 4, the system uses the acquired control commands to control the tension adjuster. It is under control. In some cases, the control command for the tension adjustment device is "tension adjustment". It can be referred to as a "command".

[0146] The process in Figure 99 illustrates an automatic timeout process that occurs after a predetermined period of time. However, other embodiments may incorporate manual control for exiting the active mode. In some cases, the user can manually exit the enabled mode. This allows the system to be reset without waiting for the system's automatic timeout. To do this, you can use a different default gesture (different from the activation gesture). Hey.

[0147] Figure 100 shows a given gesture (or motion) detected by the system and the system. This is a schematic diagram of a table showing the correspondence between commands. Here, the example gesture pairs are: While listed in column 1602, the corresponding commands are assigned in column 1604. In the example in Figure 100, the first row 1610 is the "toe tap" gesture, This indicates that the command "Tighten sufficiently" is generated. The "Tighten sufficiently" command is generated by A command used to apply a preset maximum amount of tension to the stem. That's good too. Furthermore, line 1612 of the second line says that the "heel tap" gesture is a "sufficiently loosened" command. This indicates that a d can be generated. Sufficient loosening command allows the foot to be easily withdrawn from the item. It could be a command used to completely release tension within the system, allowing for this to happen. Furthermore, line 3, 1614 states that the "forefoot contact by the other shoe" gesture is an incremental loosening. While it may generate a mand, line 4, 1616 states, "contact of the heel by the forefoot of the other shoe." This shows that Scha can generate an "incremental tightening" command. Here, "incremental" "Incremental tightening" and "incremental loosening" refer to the tension within the system in a fixed increment. It means an increase or decrease.

[0148] The embodiments are not intended to be limiting, and in other cases, Jess The control system controls the spacing between multiple footwear items. and / or between the hand and the footwear, and / or by the hand or other limbs alone Any type of gesture, including any gesture to be performed, can be used as command input. Please understand that it can be used. Some embodiments can be used not only for the feet, but also for the legs, arms, and In some cases, sensors capable of detecting several types of hand movements may be used. It is assumed that such sensors include visual sensors (such as cameras), infrared sensors, Or it could include other types of sensors.

[0149] In some embodiments, a set of gestures and associated commands are used during manufacturing. It can be pre-programmed. However, in some embodiments, the user To add a new gesture / command pair and / or modify an existing pair , which would be acceptable (for example, if the toe tap "sufficiently tightens" the tension adjustment system (Change the settings so that the command becomes "loosen sufficiently" instead.) In some embodiments, the user can change the gesture / command settings. , including mobile computing devices such as smartphones or tablets, This may be possible. In some cases, this will run on a mobile device. It can be executed through the application. Then, the mobile device will be Blue By using a tooth, wireless network, or other wireless communication, within the article It may be able to communicate with one or more systems.

[0150] As described above, the term "detection of gestures or other movements" as used in this specification refers to the detection of gestures or other movements. " is a known stream of input data (the first set of information) from one or more sensors Gestures (such as toe taps, heel taps, and taps from the first toe to the second heel) are performed. This may include comparing the data to pre-measured default data. The pitch may vary depending on the type of sensor used. For example, when the heel clicks, the foot Systems using contact or force sensors within the heel of the sole or upper are within a specific range. Furthermore, the force at the heel can be observed for a specific duration. An angular velocity sensor or gyroscope can be used. In another example where it is used, the same heel click gesture is used to move one heel by the other. A method consistent with clicking to indicate that the foot is swinging. and generate a stream of specific angular velocity values ​​(or values ​​within some threshold range). It may be known. Furthermore, the entirety of this embodiment is by reference to the present specification. The book includes the publication of a U.S. patent application by Beers. issue details The document, that is, the application filed on May 28, 2015, and which is currently "lockout" A Lockout Feature Fore Control Device A U.S. patent application with the name "e for a Control Device)" Identifying the type or level of activity disclosed in Specification No. 14 / 723,832 You can use one of these methods.

[0151] As will be understood by those skilled in the art when referring to this disclosure, the information described herein is Various embodiments include methods, data processing systems, or computer program products. These embodiments can be implemented as complete hardware embodiments. A software embodiment, or an embodiment combining software and hardware embodiments It can have a form in which it is located within a storage medium. or having computer-readable program code or instructions implemented above it Stored in one or more physical computer-readable storage media or storage devices. It can also take the form of a computer program product. Hard disk, CD-ROMs, optical storage devices, magnetic storage devices, and / or any combination thereof Any suitable physical computer-readable storage medium, including se, can be used. In addition, various non-existent terms representing data or events described herein Body signals can be transmitted through metal wires, optical fibers, and / or (for example, air and / or space). ) In the form of electromagnetic waves that travel through a signal transmission medium such as a wireless transmission medium, the source and destination It may be transferred during that time.

[0152] As described above, aspects of the present invention are executed by a computer and / or its processor. In the general context of computer-executable instructions, such as program modules. It can be described in [this section]. Generally, a program module performs a specific task. A routine, program, or object that implements a specific abstract data type. This includes code, components, data structures, etc. Such program modules are above As stated above, it is possible to contain it within a tangible, non-temporary, computer-readable medium. Yes, it is possible. Another aspect of the present invention is that the task is performed remotely via a communication network. It can also be implemented within a distributed computing environment, executed by a processing unit. The program module is memory 204 of module 22 or memory 30 of external device 110 4, etc., within memory, or including local and remote memory storage devices External media such as game media 307, which may include computer storage media, Module 22, external device 110, and / or external medium can be arranged. It may include complementary program modules that are used together for specific purposes. Please understand this. Also, a single processor 202, 302 and a single memory 204, 304 For the purpose of clarity, the diagrams and It is described that processors 202, 302 and memory 204, 304 are each It may include multiple processors and / or memory, and the processors and / or Please understand that it may have a memory system.

[0153] The sensor systems described herein are for fitness training or This includes general athletic performance monitoring in sports-specific activities such as basketball. It can be used in a variety of different applications and configurations. Other locations on footwear Please understand that further sensors can be positioned in this area. The sensors within the system are configured to detect specific lateral movements and physical cutting movements. It is also possible to collect data through a sensor system, as described herein. The collected data is stored in electronic modules, mobile devices, or related remote sites. This can be processed by algorithms. Such data processing is used when a new pair of shoes Advise users on wear and tear as needed. It is assumed that this data can be used to achieve certain goals. We should advise users on specific types of shoe configurations that may be beneficial to them. It will be possible to process and use this data. Finally, by processing this data It can also assist with the custom design of footwear. The sensor system will help with footwear Although shown within the A section, the system can be used within other types of clothing. It can also be done this way.

[0154] This specification applies not only to the sensor systems described herein, but also to footwear articles and feet. Various embodiments of other structures incorporating contact members, inserts, and sensor systems are It offers advantages and benefits compared to existing technologies. For example, in this specification Many of the sensor embodiments described therein involve sensor systems that incur little to no additional cost. To be incorporated into footwear products without any problems and with good reliability, It offers a relatively low-cost and permanent option in sensor systems. As a result, whether the sensor system is ultimately desirable for use by consumers Regardless of the price, an integrated sensor system Footwear can be manufactured to have a m. In addition to this, software Software designed to utilize the sensor system without significantly impacting costs Along with toewear, we manufacture inexpensive plantar inserts with customized sensor systems. They can be manufactured and distributed. Another example is the sensor system, which can be used in games, fitness, etc. , exercise training and improvement, practical control for computers and other devices, and , many other things described herein and recognizable to those skilled in the art It includes and provides various functions for various uses. In one embodiment, third-party software Wear developers use input from sensor systems, including games and other programs. Software can be developed that is configured to operate using universally. The ability of a sensor system to provide data in a readable format is a third-party solution. This will significantly expand the range of other applications in which software and sensor systems are used. In addition, in one embodiment, the sensor system allows for accurate detection of the applied force. It is possible to generate signals and data, and as a result, it has relatively great utility and Versatility is achieved. Further examples include liners, insoles, and other elements. Various foot inserts that house the sensor system are suitable for a variety of sensor system applications. Interoperability and customization are permitted. Other advantages are apparent to those skilled in the art. ru.

[0155] In this specification, several alternative embodiments and examples are described and illustrated. Those skilled in the art will be able to appreciate the characteristics of each embodiment, as well as the possible combinations and variations of the components. Those skilled in the art will understand the form. Any embodiment described herein is open to the public. It is further understood that this may be provided in any combination with other embodiments shown. This invention will not deviate from its spirit and core characteristics, nor will it otherwise specify It should be understood that this can be implemented in the form of. Therefore, this example and embodiment is In all respects, it must be considered as being for illustrative purposes only, not limiting purposes. Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to the details provided herein. The terms "first" and "second" as used herein are used in this specification. Terms such as "top" and "bottom" are given examples. This is the objective, and does not limit the embodiments in any way. In addition, the use of "plurality" as used in this specification The word, if necessary, can be disjunctive or conjunctive, any number greater than 1, up to an infinite number. Furthermore, the “provision” of articles or devices used herein refers to articles. Make the item available or accessible for future actions to be performed above. This broadly means that the parties providing the goods manufacture, produce, or supply the goods. It does not imply that the person providing the goods has done so, and the person providing the goods does not have ownership or rights to the goods. It does not imply that they have authority over the design. Therefore, the illustrations and descriptions do not indicate any particular embodiment. However, numerous modifications can be conceived without substantially departing from the spirit of the invention, and Furthermore, the scope of protection is limited only by the scope of the attached claims.

[0156] Examples In Example 1, the method receives a first set of information from a first sensor of a footwear item. To take, to identify a facilitating gesture based on the information of the first set, facilitating gesture Entering the active mode based on that, and while in the active mode, inside the first footwear item Receiving a second set of information from at least one of the sensors, while in active mode, Identifying the control gesture based on the second set of information, and the corresponding Zhang Determine the force adjustment command and adjust the tension of the footwear item according to the tension adjustment command. This includes controlling the adjustment device.

[0157] In Example 2, the method of Example 1 is optionally configured such that at least one sensor is the It further includes being a single sensor. In Example 3, one or more of the methods from Example 1 and Example 2 are optional. This further confirms that at least one sensor is a second sensor different from the first sensor. include.

[0158] In Example 4, one or more of the methods from Examples 1 to 3 are optionally selected. Furthermore, the facilitating gesture involves the heel of one footwear item being placed against the heel of a second footwear item. This further includes the fact that it will be clicked.

[0159] In Example 5, one or more of the methods from Examples 1 to 4 are optionally selected. Therefore, the tension adjustment command is a command to tighten the footwear item sufficiently. It further includes and.

[0160] In Example 6, one or more of the methods from Examples 1 to 5 may be selected at will. Furthermore, the tension adjustment command is a command to gradually tighten the first footwear item. It also includes something else.

[0161] In Example 7, one or more of the methods from Examples 1 to 6 can be optionally selected. Furthermore, the tension adjustment command is a command to gradually tighten the first footwear item. It also includes something else.

[0162] In Example 8, one or more of the methods from Examples 1 to 7 can be optionally selected. Therefore, the tension adjustment command is an instruction to sufficiently loosen the first footwear item. This further includes the following.

[0163] In Example 9, one or more of the methods from Examples 1 to 8 can be optionally selected. Furthermore, the tension adjustment command is an instruction to gradually loosen the first footwear item. This further includes the following.

[0164] In Example 10, one or more of the methods from Examples 1 to 9 are optional. This means that the control gesture indicates that the toe of the footwear item is being tapped. It also includes.

[0165] In Example 11, one or more of the methods from Examples 1 to 10 may be selected at will. Depending on the selection, the control gesture will indicate that the heel of the footwear item is being tapped. It also includes.

[0166] In Example 12, one or more of the methods from Examples 1 to 11 may be selected at will. Depending on the selection, the control gesture will cause the forefoot of the footwear item to move to the second footwear item. This further includes being in contact with the plantar structure of the foot.

[0167] In Example 13, one or more of the methods from Examples 1 to 12 may be selected at will. Depending on the selection, the control gesture will be such that the heel of the first footwear item is the same as the second footwear item. This further includes being in contact with the tip of the item.

[0168] In Example 14, one or more of the methods from Examples 1 to 13 may be selected at will. Depending on the selection, the control gesture will move the heel of the footwear item to the heel of the second footwear item. This further includes the fact that it is clicked by [someone / something].

[0169] In Example 15, the footwear article consists of an upper, a sole structure, a reel member, and a motor. A tension adjustment device including at least one of the upper and sole structures It is arranged in one place, and a part of the tension adjustment device is a tension adjustment member that is wound around a reel member. A tension adjustment device is attached to the reel member so that it can be taken in and then unwound. The first sensor and the second sensor, and information received from the first sensor, and information from the first sensor If it supports the facilitating gesture, it enters the enabled mode, and while in the enabled mode, the second A control unit configured to control the tension adjustment device according to information received from a sensor. It is a knitted system, and the information includes a control unit that corresponds to control gestures.

[0170] In Example 16, the footwear article of Example 15 is optionally provided with the first centimeter. This further includes the fact that the sensor is a contact sensor. In Example 17, one or more footwear from Examples 15 and 16 Item A further optionally includes the fact that the second sensor is an angular velocity sensor.

[0171] In Example 18, one or more footwear from Examples 15 to 17 The item may optionally have the first sensor positioned inside the heel of the footwear item. This further includes the following.

[0172] In Example 19, one or more footwear from Examples 15 to 18 The item may optionally have a second sensor positioned within the forefoot of the footwear item. This further includes the following.

[0173] In Example 20, one or more footwear from Examples 15 to 19 The item, by option, allows the control gesture to be performed until the tension adjustment member is sufficiently tightened. This further includes the instruction to activate the motor in order to rotate the reel.

[0174] In Example 21, one or more footwear from Examples 15 to 20 The item, by option, uses a control gesture to tighten the tension adjustment member on the reel. It further includes the instruction to operate the motor in order to gradually rotate it.

[0175] In Example 22, one or more footwear from Examples 15 to 21 The item can optionally be controlled by a control gesture until the tension adjustment member is sufficiently loosened. It further includes the fact that it is a command to operate the motor in order to rotate the wheel.

[0176] In Example 23, one or more footwear from Examples 15 to 22 The item, by option, allows a control gesture to slowly loosen the reel in order to release the tension adjustment member. It further includes the fact that it is a command to operate the motor in order to rotate it.

[0177] In Example 24, one or more footwear from Examples 15 to 23 The item, by choice, is controlled by a gesture where the toe of the footwear item is tapped. This further includes the following.

[0178] In Example 25, one or more footwear from Examples 15 to 24 The item, by option, will have a control gesture that taps the heel of the footwear item. This further includes the following.

[0179] In Example 26, one or more footwear from Examples 15 to 25 The item, by choice, controls the forefoot of the footwear item to the second foot. This further includes being in contact with the foot structure of the toewear item.

[0180] In Example 27, one or more footwear from Examples 15 to 26 The item, by choice, controls the heel of the first footwear item to the second. This further includes being in contact with the toe of a footwear item.

[0181] In Example 28, one or more footwear from Examples 15 to 27 The item, by choice, controls the heel of the footwear item to the second foot This further includes being clicked by the heel of the garment item.

[0182] In Example 29, the footwear system comprises a first footwear article and a second This includes footwear items, each of which includes the upper, sole structure, and reel. A tension adjustment device including components and a motor, wherein the tension adjustment device is among the upper and sole structures It is provided in at least one of the and a part of the tension adjustment device is a tension adjustment member It is connected to the reel member so that it can be wound onto the reel member and can be unwound from there. , tension adjustment device, first sensor and second sensor, and receiving information from the first sensor, The system enters enabled mode when the information from the sensor corresponds to a facilitative gesture. While in this state, tension adjustment associated with one of the first and second footwear articles The device is the associated footwear article among the first and second footwear articles. A control unit configured to control according to information received from a second sensor. The information is available and includes a control unit that responds to control gestures.

[0183] In Example 30, the footwear system of Example 29 is optionally configured to include the first set This further includes the fact that the sensor is a contact sensor. In Example 31, one or more footwear from Examples 29 and 30 are used. The system further includes, optionally, that the second sensor is an angular velocity sensor.

[0184] In Example 32, one or more footwear from Examples 29 to 31 The system optionally selects that the first sensor detects the first and second footwear items. This further includes being positioned within the heel.

[0185] In Example 33, one or more footwear from Examples 29 to 32 The system optionally uses a second sensor to detect the first and second footwear items. This further includes being located within the forelegs.

[0186] In Example 34, one or more footwear from Examples 29 to 33 are used. The system allows, by choice, a control gesture to ensure that the tension adjustment member is sufficiently tightened. It further includes the instruction to operate the motor in order to rotate the reel.

[0187] In Example 35, one or more footwear from Examples 29 to 34 The system allows, by choice, a control gesture to tighten the tension adjustment member. It further includes the instruction to activate the motor in order to gradually rotate the wheel.

[0188] In Example 36, one or more footwear from Examples 29 to 35 The system, by choice, allows a control gesture to be performed until the tension adjustment member is sufficiently loosened. It further includes the fact that it is a command to activate the motor in order to rotate the reel.

[0189] In Example 37, one or more footwear from Examples 29 to 36 The system, by choice, allows a control gesture to loosen the tension adjustment member of the reel. It further includes the instruction to operate the motor in order to rotate it incrementally.

[0190] In Example 38, one or more footwear from Examples 29 to 37 The system, by option, controls the items of the first and second footwear by using a control gesture. This further includes one of the toes being tapped.

[0191] In Example 39, one or more footwear from Examples 29 to 38 The system, by option, controls the first and second footwear articles by a control gesture. This further includes one of the heels being tapped.

[0192] In Example 40, one or more footwear from Examples 29 to 39 The system, by option, controls the first and second footwear articles by a control gesture. One of the forelegs is supported by the other foot structure of the first and second footwear articles. This further includes being touched.

[0193] In Example 41, one or more footwear from Examples 29 to 40 The system, by option, controls the first and second footwear articles by a control gesture. One heel is in contact with the other toe of the first and second footwear articles. It further includes the fact that it was at that time.

[0194] In Example 42, one or more footwear from Examples 29 to 41 are used. The system, by option, controls the first and second footwear articles by a control gesture. One heel clicks against the other heel of the first and second footwear items. This further includes being done.

[0195] Although various embodiments have been described above, this description is for illustrative purposes only and not limiting. Furthermore, many further embodiments and implementations are possible within the scope of the embodiments. It will be obvious to those skilled in the art that certain embodiments exist. Unless specifically limited, any embodiment Any feature of the combination of any other feature or element in any other embodiment It may be used in or replaced therewith. Accordingly, the attached claims Except in view of the and equivalents thereof, the embodiments are not limited. The deformation may also be carried out within the scope of the attached claims.

Claims

1. A method for controlling a tension adjustment device used to tighten a drawstring through an opening at the top of a first footwear article of a pair of footwear articles, wherein each footwear article of the pair of footwear articles includes a sensor, and the method Using the control unit of the first footwear item, information is received from the sensor of the first footwear item. Using the control unit, when the information from the sensor corresponds to a facilitating gesture indicating the presence of a foot in the footwear item, the unit enters an active mode. While in the aforementioned active mode, information is received from one or both of the sensors on the pair of footwear articles. A method comprising: using the control unit of the first footwear article, controlling the tension adjustment device of the first footwear article in response to a detection that indicates a gesture of the second footwear article of the pair of footwear articles toward the first footwear article, based on the information from the sensor of the footwear article of either of the pair of footwear articles.

2. The method according to claim 1, further comprising terminating the active mode if the information is not received within a predetermined time after entering the active mode.

3. The method according to claim 1, wherein the tension adjustment device is controlled based on information from both the sensor on the footwear article indicating the gesture.

4. The method according to claim 3, wherein the article of the first footwear includes a plurality of sensors, and the tension adjustment device is controlled based on information from the plurality of sensors of the article of the first footwear.

5. The method according to claim 3, wherein the article of the second footwear includes a plurality of sensors, and the tension adjustment device is controlled based on information from the plurality of sensors of the article of the second footwear.

6. The method according to claim 3, wherein both the first footwear article and the second footwear article include a plurality of sensors, and the tension adjustment device is controlled based on information from the plurality of sensors in both the first footwear article and the second footwear article.

7. The method according to claim 6, wherein the tension adjustment device is controlled based on information from all of the plurality of sensors in both the first footwear article and the second footwear article.

8. A system comprising a first footwear article and a second footwear article, The first footwear item is, The first upper part, The first plantar structure, A first fastening cord extending across at least one region of the first upper part and through a first opening of the first upper part, A first tension adjustment device and The first sensor and A first control unit is provided, The second footwear item is, The second upper part, The second plantar structure, A second fastening cord extending across at least one region of the second upper part and through a second opening in the second upper part, A second tension adjustment device, The second sensor, The system comprises a second control unit configured to transmit information from the second sensor to the first control unit, The first control unit is, Information is received from the first sensor, When the information from the first sensor corresponds to a facilitating gesture indicating the presence of a foot in the footwear article, the system enters an active mode. While in the aforementioned active mode, information is received from at least one of the first sensor and the second sensor. A system configured to control a first tension adjuster to tighten or loosen a first lace in response to the information indicating a gesture of the second footwear article toward the first footwear article.

9. The system according to claim 8, wherein the first control unit is further configured to terminate the active mode if the information is not received within a predetermined time after entering the active mode.

10. The system according to claim 8, wherein the first control unit is further configured to control the tension adjuster based on the information from both the first sensor and the second sensor indicating the gesture.

11. The system according to claim 10, wherein the first footwear article includes a plurality of sensors, and the first control unit is further configured to control the tension adjustment device based on information from the plurality of sensors of the first footwear article.

12. The system according to claim 10, wherein the second footwear article includes a plurality of sensors, and the first control unit is further configured to control the tension adjustment device based on information from the plurality of sensors of the second footwear article.

13. The system according to claim 10, wherein both the first footwear article and the second footwear article include a plurality of sensors, and the first control unit is further configured to control the tension adjustment device based on information from the plurality of sensors in both the first footwear article and the second footwear article.

14. The system according to claim 13, wherein the first control unit is further configured to control the tension adjuster based on information from all of the plurality of sensors on both the article of the first footwear and the article of the second footwear.

15. An article of footwear, The top and, The structure of the sole of the foot, A tie string extending across at least one of the upper regions and through the upper opening, Tension adjustment device, Sensors and, It includes a control unit, The control unit is Information is received from the aforementioned sensor, When the information from the sensor corresponds to a facilitating gesture indicating the presence of a foot in the footwear item, the system enters an active mode. While in the aforementioned active mode, information is received from the sensor, A footwear article configured to control a tension adjustment device to adjust the tension of the fastener in response to the information indicating a gesture of a second footwear article to a first footwear article.

16. The footwear article according to claim 15, wherein the sensor is a contact sensor located on the heel of the footwear article.

17. The footwear article according to claim 15, wherein the sensor is an angular velocity sensor located on the forefoot of the footwear article.

18. The footwear article according to claim 15, wherein the control unit is further configured to terminate the active mode if the information is not received within a predetermined time after entering the active mode.

19. The footwear article according to claim 15, further comprising a plurality of sensors, wherein the control unit is configured to control the tension adjuster based on the information from all of the plurality of sensors indicating the gesture.

20. The footwear article according to claim 19, wherein the second footwear article further includes a plurality of sensors, and the tension adjustment device is controlled based on information from all of the plurality of sensors in both the first footwear article and the second footwear article.

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