A swimming slipper providing a ground-contact sensation underwater to facilitate swim training

Abstract

The invention relates to a novel slipper system designed to provide a ground-contact sensation underwater by simulating different ground surfaces such as sand, stones, or gravel so as to facilitate swim training, wherein a haptic motor array together with depth- and motion-detecting sensors is integrated into the sole; wherein a microcontroller, a power unit, and interchangeable silicone texture modules are provided within a waterproof enclosure thereof; and wherein the slipper system is capable of detecting water depth through a pressure sensor and user movements through an IMU sensor, thereby delivering real-time haptic feedback based on processed data.

Description

[0001] A SWIMMING SLIPPER PROVIDING A GROUND-CONTACT SENSATION UNDERWATER TO FACILITATE SWIM TRAINING

[0002] Technical Field

[0003] The invention relates to a novel slipper system designed to provide a ground-contact sensation underwater by simulating different ground surfaces such as sand, stones, or gravel so as to facilitate swim training, wherein a haptic motor array together with depthand motion-detecting sensors is integrated into the sole; wherein a microcontroller, a power unit, and interchangeable silicone texture modules are provided within a waterproof enclosure thereof; and wherein the slipper system is capable of detecting water depth through a pressure sensor and user movements through an IMU sensor, thereby delivering real-time haptic feedback based on processed data.

[0004] Background of the Invention

[0005] Safety during swimming is a major concern, particularly for individuals who have not yet developed the confidence to swim in deep water. Many swimmers feel more secure when they sense their feet touching the bottom, and this sensation reinforces their overall feeling of safety. This instinctive sense of grounding plays a critical role in the development of swimming skills. However, existing swimming equipment and accessories are not designed to provide such a sensation of safety.

[0006] Currently, aids such as life rings, inflatable armbands, kickboards, swim belts, and waterproof shoes are used in learning to swim. However, these items merely prevent the user from sinking; in other words, they do not deliver a genuine sensation of contacting a ground surface.

[0007] In essence, current technologies focus solely on keeping the user safe at the water’s surface. For this reason, simulating ground contact, or enabling the user to experience the feeling of touching a real surface underwater, remains an innovative yet unmet need. This shortcoming creates a safety gap especially for beginners, and also constitutes a significant barrier for individuals trying to overcome fear of deep water. Accordingly, due to the disadvantages described above and the inadequacy of current solutions, an improvement in the related technical field has been deemed necessary.

[0008] Object of the Invention

[0009] The invention aims to introduce a structure with technical features that differ from the configurations used in the current art and that provide a new advancement in this field.

[0010] The primary object of the invention is to provide a novel slipper system that addresses the above-mentioned disadvantages by providing a ground-contact sensation through haptic feedback during swimming, thereby helping the user overcome fear of water, improve swimming skills, and accelerate the learning process.

[0011] Another object of the invention is to provide an innovative slipper system wherein a haptic motor array together with depth- and motion-detecting sensors is integrated into the sole; wherein a microcontroller, a power unit, and interchangeable silicone texture modules are provided within a waterproof enclosure thereof; and wherein the slipper system is capable of detecting water depth through a pressure sensor and user movements through an I MU sensor, thereby delivering real-time haptic feedback based on processed data.

[0012] Certain technical terms used in the description, along with brief definitions intended to facilitate understanding of the invention, are provided in the following paragraphs.

[0013] Haptic Motors: Haptic motors provide a haptic feedback, typically through vibration or pressure, to the user’s body. They are used to convey the sensation of different surface textures to the user’s foot sole. These motors operate intermittently to simulate specific textures and generate different sensations according to the user’s movements underwater. For example, they may imitate soft sand, rough stones, or gravel textures.

[0014] Interchangeable Silicone Texture Modules: These modules are located in the slipper sole to mimic various surface textures. Made of a silicone material, they can be easily replaced. The user may select silicone modules that simulate different textures (sand, stone, gravel) to customize the surface feel on the slipper sole. These modules cooperate with the haptic motors to produce the sensation of touching a ground surface. Pressure Sensors: Pressure sensors suitable for use in this invention detect an underwater depth of the user. As water depth increases, water pressure also increases. A pressure sensor measures this increase to determine the user’s depth. This sensor measures pressure in Pascals and converts this value into meters by considering water density and gravity. It has several advantages, such as being small, lightweight, waterproof, and capable of precise measurement. Such a sensor may be integrated into the sole or side portions of the slipper. These sensors are used to adjust an intensity of the haptic motors according to water depth. As depth increases, the system provides more intense and distinct haptic feedback.

[0015] Microcontroller: The microcontroller functions as the “brain” of the system, processing all sensor data and generating a haptic feedback based on these data. It processes the data received from the sensors, provides appropriate feedback to the user by means of algorithms, and transmits the required commands to the haptic motors. In addition, it provides overall system control. It supports Bluetooth communication protocols and incorporates an IMU sensor.

[0016] Power Unit: The power unit is a component consisting of rechargeable batteries that supply required energy to the system. It powers all electronic components of the slipper. Long-term use can be ensured by employing a waterproof battery or power source. The slipper includes a small rechargeable battery placed within a waterproof compartment. Battery life is optimized for 4-6 hours of use and can be easily recharged through a magnetic charging station.

[0017] Waterproof Enclosure: It is a dedicated enclosure system that protects the electronic components against water. This enclosure protects the components inside the slipper in a waterproof manner, prevents any water exposure to the electronic elements, and ensures safe operation of the slipper underwater.

[0018] IMU Sensor (Inertial Measurement Unit): The IMU sensor is used to detect the user’s movements and position. It typically includes components such as an accelerometer, a gyroscope, and a magnetometer. It senses the user’s body movements and transmits the data to the microcontroller, enabling appropriate haptic feedback during swimming. With this sensor, the user’s movements in the water are detected, and the frequency and intensity of the haptic feedback are adjusted accordingly. The sensor also allows the feedback to be delivered with correct timing while the user performs swimming motions.

[0019] Bluetooth Communication Module: The Bluetooth communication module enables wireless data transfer between devices. It establishes connection between the slipper and a mobile device or another control unit. Through this module, the user may adjust the slipper’s settings via a mobile application.

[0020] The characteristics and structural features of the invention, along with all the advantages thereof, will be more clearly understood from the accompanying drawings and the detailed description referring thereto; accordingly, the assessment should be made with due consideration of these drawings and the detailed description.

[0021] Drawings for a Better Understanding of the Invention

[0022] Figure 1 is a schematic view illustrating the components contained in the upper and middle layers of the novel swimming slipper.

[0023] Figure 2 is a schematic view illustrating the components contained in the lower layer of the novel swimming slipper.

[0024] The drawings are not intended to be to scale, and details that are not essential for understanding the invention may be omitted. Furthermore, elements which are at least substantially identical, or which perform at least substantially identical functions, are indicated by the same reference numerals.

[0025] List of Reference Numerals

[0026] 1. Waterproof slipper body

[0027] 1.1. Upper layer

[0028] 1.2. Middle layer

[0029] 1.3. Lower layer

[0030] 2. Haptic motor array

[0031] 2.1. Primary haptic motors

[0032] 2.2. Auxiliary actuators

[0033] 2.3. Interchangeable silicone texture modules 3. Sensor group

[0034] 3.1. Pressure sensor

[0035] 3.2. IMU sensor

[0036] 4. Microcontroller

[0037] 5. Power unit

[0038] 5.1. Magnetically rechargeable battery

[0039] 5.2. Power control circuit

[0040] 5.3. Waterproof battery enclosure

[0041] Detailed Description of the Invention

[0042] In the following detailed description, the preferred embodiments of the invention are provided solely for facilitating a clearer understanding of the subject matter, without any intention to impose a limiting effect.

[0043] As illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, the novel slipper system essentially consists of five main components: a waterproof slipper body (1), a haptic motor array (2), a sensor group (3), a microcontroller (4), and a power unit (5). The waterproof slipper body (1) is made of a durable, waterproof material and has a three-layered structure. The upper layer (1.1) is ergonomically shaped to wrap the foot and is specially designed for user comfort. The middle layer (1.2) is designed as a waterproof compartment for housing the electronic components, which provides the waterproof integrity of the entire electronic system. The lower layer (1.3) comprises movable surfaces that are activated by the haptic motors so as to provide a texture simulation.

[0044] The haptic motor array (2) is positioned on the sole portion of the slipper, namely the lower layer (1.3), and consists of three components. The primary haptic motors (2.1) are the main units for simulating ground texture and are used to provide the user’s foot with a realistic ground-contact sensation. The auxiliary actuators (2.2) constitute secondary units forming different textures and simulating fine surface details such as sand, stones, and gravel. The interchangeable silicone texture modules (2.3) are designed to mimic various ground textures, offering different ground experiences to the user as well as being easily replaceable The sensor group (3) constitutes the sensing mechanism of the system and includes two components. The pressure sensor (3.1) detects a pressure exerted by the water and determines a depth of the user. The I MU sensor (3.2) detects the user’s movements and detects a speed, a direction, and a position of the user.

[0045] The microcontroller (4) manages the entire system, processes data, and performs control functions by generating appropriate haptic feedback based on the data received from the sensors. A memory of the microcontroller stores operating parameters and logs data obtained from the sensors as well as the user’s preferences. A communication module of the microcontroller enables communication with the sensors, manages data exchange, and ensures synchronized operation among all system components. The communication module additionally enables the connection between the slipper and a mobile device or another control unit. Through this module, the user can adjust the settings on the slipper via the mobile application.

[0046] The power unit (5) meets the energy requirements of the system and consists of three components. The magnetically rechargeable battery (5.1) supplies energy to all electronic components of the slipper and can be recharged wirelessly via magnetic coupling. It provides sufficient capacity for long-term use. The power control circuit (5.2) optimizes the energy consumption of the system and efficiently manages overall power usage. The waterproof battery enclosure (5.3) protects the battery in a waterproof manner and ensures safe use underwater.

[0047] The operating principle of the system is as follows. The system comprises four different operating modes: an initialization mode, an operation mode, a feedback mode, and a control and customization mode. When the slipper contacts water, the system is automatically activated and switches to the initialization mode. At this stage, the sensor group (3) within the waterproof enclosure immediately begins operating and collecting data. Calibration required for the proper functioning of the system is then performed, ensuring that the feedback is adjusted according to the water depth and the user’s foot movements. In the operation mode, the pressure sensor (3.1) continuously measures the water depth. The user’s depth in the water is detected, and the frequency of the haptic motor feedback is adjusted accordingly. The IMU sensor (3.2) tracks the user’s movements by sensing the speed, direction, and position of the user, which allows the haptic feedback to be directed in accordance with these movements. The microcontroller (4) analyzes the data received from the sensors and transmits a command to the haptic motors (2.1) to simulate an appropriate ground-contact sensation depending on the user’s position and movements. In the feedback mode, the interchangeable silicone texture modules (2.3) provide the selected texture. The primary haptic motors (2.1) create the base ground sensation, simulating surface textures such as soft sand, stone, or gravel beneath the user’s foot. The auxiliary actuators (2.2) simulate fine texture details, enhancing the base sensation produced by the primary motors and replicating smaller variations of the surface. In the control and customization mode, the user may personalize the frequency and intensity of the feedback according to their preferences. In this mode, using a button on the slipper or a paired mobile application, the user may adjust preferences, select between different textures such as sand, stone, or gravel, adjust the vibration intensity to high, medium, or low, and determine whether the sensation is delivered continuously or intermittently.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A novel slipper system designed to deliver a real-time haptic feedback during swimming to provide the sensation of contacting different ground surfaces such as sand, stones, and gravel, thereby helping a user overcome fear of water, improve swimming skills, and accelerate the learning process, characterized by comprising: a waterproof slipper body (1) made of a durable and waterproof material and having a three-layer structure that consists of an upper layer (1.1) ergonomically shaped to wrap the foot and specially designed for user comfort, a middle layer(1.2) designed as a waterproof compartment for housing the electronic components and providing waterproof integrity for the entire electronic system, and a lower layer (1.3) comprising movable surfaces that are activated by the haptic motors so as to provide a texture simulation, a haptic motor array (2) positioned on a sole portion, namely on the lower layer(1.3) of the slipper, and having a three-component structure that consists of primary haptic motors (2.1) constituting the main units for simulating ground texture and providing the user’s foot with a realistic ground-contact sensation, auxiliary actuators (2.2) that constitute secondary units for forming different textures and simulating fine surface details such as sand, stones, and gravel, and interchangeable silicone texture modules (2.3) designed to mimic various ground textures, offering different ground experiences to the user and being easily replaceable, a sensor group (3) constituting the sensing mechanism of the system and including a two-component structure that consists of a pressure sensor (3.1) for detecting a pressure exerted by the water and determining a depth of the user in water, and an I MU sensor (3.2) for detecting the user’s movements and sensing a speed, a direction, and a position of the user, a microcontroller (4) for managing the entire system, processing data, and performing control functions to generate an appropriate haptic feedback based on the data received from the sensors, wherein the microcontroller (4) has a memory for storing operating parameters, sensor data, and user preferences, a communication module for communicating with the sensors, managing data exchange and ensuring synchronized operation among all system components, and a Bluetooth communication module for providing connection between theslipper and a mobile device or another control unit, thereby enabling the user to adjust the settings on the slipper via a mobile application, and a power unit (5) for meeting the energy requirements of the system and having a three-component structure that consists of a wireless, magnetically rechargeable battery (5.1) for supplying power to all electronic components in the slipper and having sufficient capacity for long-term use, a power control circuit (5.2) for optimizing the energy consumption of the system and efficiently managing overall power usage, and a waterproof battery enclosure (5.3) for protecting the battery in a waterproof manner and ensuring safe use underwater.

2. A slipper system according to claim 1 , characterized in that the system comprises a haptic motor array (2) that simulates the sensation of touching sand by providing a wider and softer vibration frequency.

3. A slipper system according to claim 1 , characterized in that the system comprises a haptic motor array (2) that simulates the sensation of touching stone by generating harder and more pronounced pressure points in the form of pushing forces.

4. A slipper system according to claim 1 , characterized in that the system comprises a haptic motor array (2) that simulates the sensation of touching gravel by generating small pressure points in the form of pushing forces that vary continuously in a random manner.

5. A slipper system according to claim 1 , characterized in that the system comprises four different operating modes including an initialization mode, an operation mode, a feedback mode, and a control and customization mode.

6. A slipper system according to claim 5, characterized in that the initialization mode comprises the steps of: activating the slipper automatically when it contacts water, immediately operating the sensors inside the waterproof enclosure and collecting data by the system, performing the calibration required for proper operation of the system, thereby enabling the feedback to be adjusted according to the water depth and the user’s foot movements.

7. A slipper system according to claim 5, characterized in that the operation mode comprises the steps of: continuously measuring the water depth through the pressure sensor (3.1) and adjusting the frequency of the motor feedback accordingly, tracking the user’s movements and detecting a speed, a direction, and a position of the user by the I MU sensor (3.2), thereby directing the feedback of the haptic motors based on these movements, analyzing the data received from the sensors and transmitting a command to the haptic motors (2.1) by the microcontroller (4.1) to simulate an appropriate ground-contact sensation depending on the user’s position and movements.

8. A slipper system according to claim 5, characterized in that the feedback mode comprises the steps of: providing the selected texture by the interchangeable silicone texture modules (2.3), creating the base ground sensation by the primary haptic motors (2.1) and thereby simulating surface textures such as soft sand, stone, or gravel beneath the user’s foot, simulating fine texture details by the auxiliary actuators (2.2), thereby enhancing the base sensation produced by the primary motors and replicating smaller variations of the surface.

9. A slipper system according to claim 5, characterized in that the control and customization mode comprises the steps of: adjusting settings according to the user’s preferences by means of a button on the slipper or a paired mobile application, selecting between different textures such as sand, stone, or gravel, adjusting the vibration intensity to high, medium, or low, determining whether the sensation is to be delivered continuously or intermittently.

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