Foot Measurement App Using Reference Object and Camera
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing foot measuring methods, especially for online shopping, face challenges such as lack of real-time feedback, inaccuracy, and user effort in determining shoe size without physical devices, particularly for children or those with disabilities, and limitations in measuring larger feet or varied shoe styles.
Innovation Solution
A mobile computing device application with a built-in camera uses a standard-sized paper reference object for real-time foot measurement, providing augmented reality feedback through color-coded shoe size overlays, employing corner detection and perspective transformation algorithms for accurate foot size analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional physical measuring devices (Brannock device) are used, then measurement accuracy and real-time feedback are improved, but device complexity and portability are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical Brannock device with a software application running on a mobile computing device. The application uses the device's built-in camera to capture images of the foot and reference object, then processes these images through algorithms to determine foot dimensions. This substitution eliminates the need for complex mechanical measuring instruments while maintaining measurement capability through digital image analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital copy of the measurement process by capturing an image of the foot and reference object, then analyzing this digital representation to extract dimensional information. Instead of physically measuring the foot with mechanical tools, the system creates and analyzes a digital image copy, enabling measurement through image processing rather than direct physical contact and measurement.
2Device complexity
If trace outline method is used, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision and user effort are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the measuring system to perform the measurement task automatically without requiring user intervention in the actual measuring process. The application automatically detects the reference object in the captured image, calculates its real-world dimensions based on known reference size, and uses this information to determine foot measurements. This eliminates the need for users to manually trace outlines or perform complex measurement calculations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual tracing and measuring process with automated image processing algorithms. Instead of requiring users to draw outlines and measure them with rulers, the system uses computer vision algorithms to automatically detect edges, calculate dimensions, and determine foot size from the captured image, substituting manual mechanical measurement with automated digital analysis.
3Ease of operation
If tablet screen method is used, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision and applicability are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional screen-based measurement approach to a three-dimensional spatial measurement approach using the camera's depth perception and perspective transformation capabilities. By capturing the foot in its natural three-dimensional space and using perspective correction algorithms, the system can accurately measure feet of various sizes without being constrained by screen dimensions, thereby improving both applicability and precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal measuring solution that works across different device types (smartphones, tablets, computers) and for various foot sizes. The application uses the device's camera and processing capabilities rather than relying on screen real estate, making it applicable to a broader range of users and foot dimensions while maintaining ease of operation through the same intuitive interface.
4Measurement precision
If remote server processing is used, then measurement precision may be improved, but processing speed and user feedback are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-loading measurement algorithms and reference data into the mobile device's local memory and processing units. The application is designed to perform all necessary image processing and calculation operations locally on the device rather than requiring remote server connectivity. This preliminary preparation enables instantaneous processing of captured images and immediate display of measurement results without network delays.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a local processing intermediary layer between the camera capture and the measurement result display. Instead of directly transmitting images to remote servers for processing, the system uses the mobile device's built-in processor as an intermediary to perform initial image analysis, reference object detection, and dimension calculation locally. This intermediary processing layer enables fast local computation while maintaining the option to upload results or more complex cases to remote servers if needed.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and processes for measuring and sizing a foot are provided. In one exemplary process, at least one image of a foot and a horizontal reference object from a first point of view is captured. A portion of the foot may be disposed against a vertical reference object. The at least one image may be displayed, where one or more camera guides are overlaid on the at least one displayed image. In response to aligning the one or more camera guides with one or more of the horizontal reference object and the vertical reference object, a measurement of the foot based on the at least one captured image from the first point of view is determined.