Foot Measurement Loop and Camera System for Accurate Sizing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current foot measurement methods for selecting ready-made footwear are cumbersome, time-consuming, and costly, especially for online shopping, leading to a high rate of returns due to inaccurate sizing.
Innovation Solution
A foot measurement apparatus and system that includes a base plate with a circumference measurement loop and a digital camera, where the circumference measurement loop has elastic and non-elastic portions with visual characteristics, allowing for easy foot positioning and image capture, and a computing device to determine foot length and circumference for accurate shoe sizing using a smartphone and accessible software.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional hand measurement using tape measure is used, then measurement precision can be achieved with experience and skill, but the process is cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement with an automated image processing system. A camera captures images of the foot, and computer vision algorithms automatically measure foot length and width, eliminating the need for manual tape measuring while maintaining accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital copy (image) of the foot instead of using physical measurement tools. The captured image serves as a replica that can be processed by software to extract dimensional information, making the measurement process faster and more accessible.
2Measurement precision
If laser scanner or machine vision tools are used to scan the foot, then measurement precision is improved, but the system becomes complicated and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a standard camera instead of expensive laser scanners. The camera is a廉价, readily available device that can be used for the measurement task, eliminating the need for costly specialized equipment while maintaining sufficient measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts only the essential functionality needed for measurement from complex scanning systems. Instead of using a complete laser scanner or 3D imaging system, it extracts the basic camera capability and processes the images through software to achieve the measurement goal, simplifying the overall system.
3Measurement precision
If 3D model building via capturing multiple images is used, then measurement precision is improved, but the process becomes difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the necessary measurement information from the foot image rather than creating a complete 3D model. By focusing on capturing key dimensional data (length and width) through image processing, it simplifies the operation while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a single image capture instead of multiple images required for 3D modeling. This partial action approach is sufficient for obtaining accurate linear measurements, making the process easier and faster while avoiding the complexity of multi-image capture and processing.
4Measurement precision
If manual foot measurement is performed, then measurement precision can be achieved, but the process is cumbersome and not suitable for Internet shopping
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables self-service measurement where the user can independently capture their own foot image and obtain measurements without requiring professional assistance. The automated system performs the measurement function that traditionally required skilled measurers, making it accessible to everyone including online shoppers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement with automated image processing. The camera and software system automatically performs measurements that would otherwise require skilled hands and experience, making the process more convenient and accessible for remote shopping scenarios.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables accurate, efficient, and cost-effective foot measurement for selecting ready-made footwear, suitable for both home and store use, reducing return rates by providing precise sizing without the need for expensive equipment.
Implementation Method 1
The circumference measurement loop comprises a first portion of elastic material and a second portion of substantially non-elastic material. When the first portion is non-stretched, the circumference measurement loop has a second circumference that is smaller than the first circumference.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention allows foot measurement for selecting ready-made footwear that provides accurate results efficiently, easily and with low costs, and which can be performed both at home and at stores. An apparatus (120) of foot measurement comprises a base plate (121) and a single circumference measurement loop (123). The base plate (121) is utilized in measuring the length (401) of a foot, and an elastic portion (123A) of the circumference measurement loop (123) is utilized in measuring the circumference (402) around the ball of the foot.