Gesture-Controlled Shoe Tensioning With Universal Sensor Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing footwear with sensor systems are often complex and limited in data accessibility, restricting their use to specific operating systems, which hinders their full potential for performance analysis and other applications.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for controlling a tensioning device in footwear using sensors to adjust tension based on movement, incorporating a tensioning member with a reel and motor, and a control unit that receives information from sensors to manage the tensioning command, allowing for universal communication and broader data utilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If sensor systems are incorporated into footwear, then performance data collection capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal communication interface that allows the sensor system to communicate with multiple different operating systems and devices. The control unit is designed to be compatible with various external systems, enabling the same sensor system to serve multiple functions and users without requiring system-specific hardware modifications.
2Adaptability or versatility
If sensor systems are limited to specific operating systems, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a universal communication interface as an intermediary layer between the sensor system and various operating systems. This interface acts as a mediator that translates and adapts communications between different systems, allowing the sensor system to work with multiple operating systems without requiring complex modifications to the core sensor functionality.
3Ease of operation
If tensioning control requires manual operation, then device complexity is reduced, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements an automated tensioning control system where the control unit automatically adjusts the tensioning member based on sensor data and pre-programmed conditions. The system monitors performance data and autonomously makes tensioning adjustments without requiring manual user intervention, thereby improving ease of operation while managing complexity through automated decision-making algorithms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a feedback mechanism where sensors continuously monitor performance data and feed this information back to the control unit. The control unit processes this feedback and automatically adjusts the tensioning member accordingly, creating a closed-loop control system that adapts to changing conditions and maintains optimal tension levels without manual intervention.
Data Source
AI summary
An article of footwear includes a motorized tensioning system, sensors, and a gesture control system. Based on information received from one or more sensors the gesture control system may detect a prompting gesture and enters an armed mode for receiving further instructions. In the armed mode the system may detect a variety of different control gestures that correspond to different tensioning commands.