Gesture-Controlled Motorized Shoe Tensioning With Armed-Mode Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing footwear with sensor systems are often complex and limited in data accessibility, restricting their usage due to compatibility issues with certain operating systems, thereby hindering the full utilization of collected performance data.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for controlling a tensioning device in footwear using sensors to adjust tension based on movement, incorporating a control unit that receives information from sensors and enters an armed mode to execute tensioning commands, allowing for flexible data access and usage across various systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If sensor systems are incorporated into footwear to collect performance data, then data collection capability is improved, but device complexity increases and data accessibility is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal data access interface that allows performance data from footwear sensors to be accessed across multiple operating systems and devices. The system uses standardized communication protocols and a portable data module that can interface with various platforms (smartphones, tablets, computers) without requiring system-specific implementations, thereby making the data accessible universally while keeping the core sensor system relatively simple.
2Ease of operation
If gesture control is added to adjust tension in footwear, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service control mechanism where the footwear automatically detects gestures through integrated sensors and autonomously adjusts tension based on predefined gesture patterns. The system includes a gesture recognition module that processes sensor data, identifies user intentions, and triggers appropriate tension adjustments without requiring manual intervention or complex external control devices. This automation simplifies operation while managing complexity through integrated design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical tension adjustment mechanisms (manual lacing, buckles) with an automated motorized tensioning system controlled by gesture recognition. Sensors detect user gestures and translate them into motor commands that automatically adjust the tension, eliminating the need for manual mechanical manipulation and providing a more intuitive and easier operation mode.
3Adaptability or versatility
If data access is made universal across operating systems, then adaptability is improved, but loss of information may increase due to compatibility issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a portable data module as an intermediary between the footwear sensor system and various operating systems. This module acts as a standardized interface that collects, formats, and transmits data in a universal format that can be read by multiple platforms without data loss. The intermediary handles data encoding and communication protocols, ensuring data integrity is maintained across different operating systems while providing universal accessibility.
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.