Footprint Image Analysis for Custom Footwear Sizing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for producing custom-made shoes and insoles require in-person foot measurements at specialist retailers, which is inconvenient and limits accessibility.
Innovation Solution
A method using a smartphone or tablet to capture and analyze a footprint image, extracting characteristic foot data such as size, shape, and pressure distribution, allowing for remote production of custom shoes or insoles without the need for in-person measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If in-person foot measurements are performed at specialist retailers using scanner devices or manual methods, then measurement precision and reliability are improved, but ease of operation and accessibility deteriorate due to the requirement of visiting a specialist retailer
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a camera to capture an optical image (copy) of the footprint instead of requiring physical scanner devices or manual measurement tools. The footprint image serves as a digital copy that can be processed to extract measurement data, eliminating the need for specialized measurement equipment at the user's location.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a measurement standard (ruler or reference object) as an intermediary element placed next to the footprint in the image. This intermediary provides a known scale that enables accurate dimension extraction from the optical image, bridging the gap between simple image capture and precise measurement.
2Manufacturing precision
If specialized scanner devices or manual measurement tools are used at specialist retailers, then manufacturing precision of custom shoes and insoles is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex specialized scanner devices with a simple camera that captures a 2D image copy of the footprint. This optical copy contains sufficient information for manufacturing purposes when processed with appropriate algorithms, significantly reducing device complexity while maintaining adequate manufacturing precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes mechanical measurement systems (scanner devices, manual rulers) with an optical system (camera) combined with digital image processing. The measurement information is extracted through algorithmic analysis of the footprint image rather than through mechanical contact or physical measurement tools.
3Reliability
If in-person measurements are conducted by specialists, then reliability of foot data is improved, but loss of time increases due to the need to visit a retailer
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables users to perform the measurement process themselves at home using a camera and footprint image analysis. The system allows self-service measurement without requiring appointment scheduling, travel to a retailer, or assistance from specialists, thereby eliminating time loss while maintaining data reliability through automated image processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary actions by capturing the complete footprint image in a single shot and automatically extracting all necessary measurement data through image processing algorithms. This preliminary capture of all measurement information in one step eliminates the need for multiple measurement sessions or follow-up visits.
Data Source
AI summary
Custom-made shoes and orthopedic insoles support the wearer, with these products being manufactured at specialist retailers by a method that includes the steps of: producing a footprint; capturing the footprint and a measurement standard as a footprint image using a camera; and, extracting and/or determining the characteristic foot data on the basis of the footprint image.