Gesture-Controlled Motorized Shoe Tensioning With Sensor Data Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing shoes with sensor systems are often complex and limited in data accessibility, restricting their use and functionality.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for controlling a tensioning device in footwear based on movements, using sensors to detect gestures and retrieve corresponding tensioning commands, integrated with a communication port for data access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If sensor systems are incorporated into shoes to collect performance data, then data collection capability is improved, but device complexity increases and data accessibility is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system is divided into modular components: sensors embedded in the shoe, a separate communication port, and external devices for data analysis. This segmentation allows the shoe itself to remain relatively simple while enabling comprehensive data collection and external accessibility through the communication interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The communication port is designed to provide universal data access capabilities, allowing multiple types of external devices to connect and access performance data. This multi-functionality enables the same sensor system to serve various purposes (performance tracking, medical monitoring, athletic training) without increasing shoe complexity.
2Ease of operation
If gesture control is added to adjust tension dynamically, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the wearer's own body movements (gestures) as the control input mechanism. The sensors detect natural gestures made by the wearer, and the tensioning device automatically responds to these gestures, eliminating the need for separate controls or interfaces. This self-service approach simplifies operation while leveraging the existing sensor infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
Traditional mechanical tension adjustment mechanisms (manual lacing, buckles, dials) are replaced with an automated motorized tensioning device controlled by gesture recognition. This substitution eliminates complex mechanical interfaces and provides smoother, more precise tension control through electronic actuation.
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.