Shoe-Embedded Sensor Module for Dynamic Weight Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current weight diagnostic systems are limited in their ability to provide dynamic, mobile measurements of both static and load-bearing weight, particularly during walking, and lack the capability to assess biometric loop signatures, making them unsuitable for continuous monitoring and personalized health analysis.
Innovation Solution
A gait-based biometric system using a sensor module embedded in a shoe to gather data on static and load-bearing weight, generating biometric loop signatures that can be compared over time to track weight changes and assess the effectiveness of treatments or activities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If fixed weighing systems are used to measure static weight, then measurement precision is improved, but device mobility and adaptability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical weighing systems with a sensor-based electronic system embedded in footwear. Pressure sensors, accelerometers, and gyroscopes detect weight and gait parameters electronically, eliminating the need for fixed mechanical scales while maintaining measurement precision and enabling mobile use.
Solution Approach 2:
The weighing and gait analysis system is nested within the footwear structure. Sensors are embedded in the insole, and processing units are integrated into the shoe, allowing the measurement system to move with the user while maintaining accurate weight and gait measurements during dynamic activities.
2Device complexity
If simple weighing devices are used, then device complexity is reduced, but the ability to measure angular kinematics and plantar center of pressure deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the foot into multiple measurement zones with distributed pressure sensors arranged in arrays across the insole. This segmentation allows detection of plantar center of pressure and weight distribution across different foot regions, while each individual sensor remains simple in design.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor module performs multiple functions simultaneously: weight measurement, gait phase detection, angular kinematics analysis, and plantar center of pressure tracking. This multi-functionality is achieved through a integrated sensor array that collects diverse biometric data without requiring separate specialized devices.
3Duration of action of moving object
If continuous mobile monitoring is implemented, then measurement duration and adaptability are improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs periodic sampling of gait parameters rather than continuous high-frequency recording. Sensors activate at specific gait events (heel strike, toe-off) to capture essential weight and motion data, reducing overall energy consumption while maintaining continuous monitoring capability throughout the day.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts sampling frequency and sensor activation based on activity level and battery status. During low-activity periods or when battery charge is low, the system reduces measurement frequency while maintaining essential monitoring, thereby extending operational duration without compromising critical data collection.
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 continuous, mobile monitoring of weight changes and gait dynamics, allowing for personalized recommendations and improved health management by tracking changes in static and load-bearing weight through the analysis of biometric loop signatures.
Implementation Method 1
A sensor module with multiple sensors is placed inside a user's shoe and biometric data is gathered from the sensors when the user stands and when the user takes a step or walks
Implementation Method 2
The sensor module includes accelerometers and gyroscopes that detect motion and orientation
Implementation Method 3
The sensor module includes accelerometers and gyroscopes that detect motion and orientation
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for determining a user's static weight while standing as well as the user's load bearing weight. A sensor module with multiple sensors is placed inside a user's shoe and biometric data is gathered from the sensors when the user stands and when the user takes a step or walks. The data is used to generate data loops as the various sets of data are plotted against each other. The loops obtained from the data are then compared against stored loops previously obtained. Using the biometric loop baseline data, it can be determined whether the user has lost or gained weight, whether a specific load bearing weight condition is worsening while standing and while walking or running. The system can also determine whether a specific load bearing weight condition is improving or worsening.