Footwear Module Authentication Using Magnetic Activation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing footwear technologies lack efficient methods for activating and authenticating electronic modules, data processing algorithm selection, and secure data input systems, particularly in athletic footwear, without requiring physical interaction that may compromise durability and waterproofing.
Innovation Solution
Utilizing magnetic or light interactions between the module and the article of footwear, such as Hall sensor systems, to activate and authenticate electronic devices, and select data processing algorithms, without the need for additional user input, ensuring durability and waterproofing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If physical interactions (such as contact switches or wired connections) are used to activate and authenticate electronic modules in footwear, then reliable activation and authentication can be achieved, but the durability and waterproofing of the footwear are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical contact systems (switches, wired connections) with magnetic field-based activation and authentication systems. Magnets embedded in the footwear and corresponding magnetic sensors in the electronic module enable contactless detection of module presence and authentication, eliminating the need for physical penetrations that would compromise footwear integrity and waterproofing while maintaining reliable activation functionality
2Adaptability or versatility
If electronic modules are continuously activated to provide sensing and data transmission functions, then functionality and data collection are improved, but battery life is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic activation of electronic modules based on detected usage conditions. The system remains in a low-power state until magnetic sensors detect that the footwear is being worn (module in place), then activates sensing and data transmission functions. This periodic operation based on actual usage conditions maintains full functionality when needed while significantly extending battery life during non-usage periods
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically detects module installation and activation requirements through magnetic field sensing without user intervention. The electronic module self-activates when detected in the correct position and self-deactivates when removed, eliminating the need for manual power management while optimizing battery consumption based on actual usage
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 automatic activation and authentication of electronic modules in footwear, extends battery life, and facilitates secure data input and algorithm selection, enhancing functionality and durability.
Implementation Method 1
Utilizing magnetic or light interactions between the module and the article of footwear, such as Hall sensor systems
Implementation Method 2
systems and methods according to at least some more specific examples of this invention utilize light sources and detectors and/or magnets and magnetic sensing systems
Data Source
AI summary
Articles of footwear and footwear systems include modules, e.g., for sensing physical and/or physiological characteristics associated with use of the footwear or for performing other functions. Such systems and methods may use physical or other interaction(s) between the module and the article of footwear for activating and/or deactivating the module and/or sensing devices included with the module, for confirming whether the module and footwear are authorized for use with one another, and/or for automatic data algorithm selection methods. Additionally, such systems and methods also may use the activation and/or authentication systems for the module for data input to the module.