Foot Feature Measurement and Simulation for Shoe Fit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for determining footwear fit are inadequate as they primarily focus on foot length, neglecting unique features and issues, and require cumbersome processes involving multiple measurements and equipment, which are not practical for retail settings or efficient for selecting the best-fitting shoes.
Innovation Solution
A method involving foot feature measurement and simulation that includes length, width, depth, and angle measurements, allowing for the creation of a shoe fit evaluator using rods, balls, or other components to accurately assess shoe fit by mapping foot features, which can be performed at home or in a doctor's office, and utilizing digital photography and off-site analysis for customization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple measurements (length, width, depth, angles) are taken to accurately capture unique foot features, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation worsen due to requiring multiple measurement tools and procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple measurement functions (length, width, depth, angle measurements) into a single Brannock device. The device integrates a length measurement scale, a width measurement mechanism, a depth measurement tool, and an angle measurement capability all in one instrument, allowing comprehensive foot feature assessment without requiring multiple separate tools
Solution Approach 2:
The Brannock device is designed as a universal measurement tool that can perform multiple measurement tasks. It can measure foot length, width, depth, and angles, making it a multi-functional device that replaces what would traditionally require several different measurement instruments and procedures
2Measurement precision
If comprehensive foot measurements are performed to determine shoe fit, then shoe fit accuracy is improved, but productivity decreases due to time-consuming measurement processes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs comprehensive foot measurements in advance using the integrated Brannock device, capturing all relevant foot features (length, width, depth, angles) before the customer enters the fitting room. This preliminary action provides a complete measurement profile that can be quickly referenced during shoe selection, eliminating the need for repeated measurements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital or physical copy of the foot measurements and foot features. This measurement profile can be stored and quickly compared against shoe specifications, allowing for rapid shoe fit assessment without requiring the customer to undergo time-consuming measurement procedures for each shoe tried on
3Reliability
If detailed foot feature mapping is performed to account for unique foot issues, then shoe fit reliability is improved, but device complexity and training requirements worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent identifies and measures specific local features of the foot that are relevant to shoe fit, such as toe angles, arch depth, and width at specific locations. The Brannock device is designed to target these specific local features with dedicated measurement mechanisms, allowing employees to assess critical fit areas without needing to understand complex overall foot anatomy
Data Source
AI summary
A method comprises arranging a measurement paper. The measurement paper may include a plurality of lines to aid in centering a foot. The method may further include tracing a foot onto the measurement paper and making a plurality of measurements on the traced foot. Based on the plurality of measurements, shoe fit evaluator may be constructed.