JP6626922B2 - Footwear with sensor system - Google Patents

Description

(Cross-reference of related applications)
No. 13 / 401,914 filed on Feb. 22, 2012, US patent application Ser. No. 13 / 401,916 filed on Feb. 22, 2012 and filed on Feb. 22, 2012. Claim priority of U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 401,918, all of which are entitled "Footwear with Sensor System", all of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

(Technical field)
The present invention relates generally to footwear having a sensor system, and more particularly to a shoe having a force and / or pressure sensor assembly operably connected to a communication port located on the shoe.

(background)
Shoes incorporating sensor systems are well known. The sensor system collects the performance data and the data can be accessed for subsequent use, for example, for analytical purposes. In certain systems, the sensor system is complex or the data can only be accessed or used by a particular operating system. In this way, use of the collected data may be unnecessarily limited. Thus, while certain shoes with sensor systems offer many advantageous features, they nonetheless have certain limitations. The present invention seeks to overcome some of these limitations and other disadvantages of the prior art and provide new features not heretofore available.

(Overview)
The present invention generally relates to footwear having a sensor system. Aspects of the invention relate to an article of footwear that includes an upper member and a sole structure, with a sensor system connected to the sole structure. The sensor system includes a plurality of sensors configured to detect a force and / or pressure exerted on the sensors by a user's foot.

  Aspects of the invention relate to a sensor system adapted for use in articles of footwear. The sensor system includes an insert member configured to be inserted into a foot compartment of the article of footwear. The insert member includes a first layer and a second layer, a port connected to the insert and configured for communication with the electronic module, a plurality of force and / or pressure sensors on the insert member, and the sensor to the port. And a plurality of leads to be connected.

  The system may also include a path for providing telecommunications between the first and second layers. The system may further include a housing configured to support the electronic module connected to the insert and in communication with the port. The insert may further include at least one additional layer, such as a spacer layer having holes aligned with sensors and / or pathways to allow engagement of the component by the spacer layer.

  According to one aspect, a sensor system includes a first resistor located on a first layer and a second resistor located on a second layer, each of the resistors being one of the leads. It is connected to the above. The port, the path, the sensor, the lead and the first and second resistors form a circuit on the insert member, the circuit being adapted to apply a voltage between a first terminal located at the port and ground. It is configured. The first and second resistors are arranged in parallel between the first terminal and ground. Each of the resistors has an inner portion connected to the first lead, an outer portion connected to the second lead, and extends between the inner and outer portions and includes both an inner portion and an outer portion. And partially overlapping bridges. The resistor is configured to allow electronic signals to pass between the first lead and the second lead by the inner portion, the bridge, and the outer portion.

  According to another aspect, the channel can further include a generally annular stiffener disposed about the channel on at least one of the first and second layers. The stiffener is less flexible than the path. The pathway may additionally or alternatively include a first conductive portion of the first layer and a second conductive portion of the second layer. The first and second conductive portions are continuously engaged with each other by holes to provide telecommunication between the first and second layers. The first and second conductive portions each have a gap extending therethrough and dividing the first and second conductive portions into separate first and second portions. In this configuration, the gap extends and extends substantially perpendicularly to an imaginary line extending between the front edge of the first metatarsal phalange sensor and the rear edge of the fourth metatarsal phalange sensor. The path in this configuration may constitute two separate paths on opposite sides of the gap.

  According to another aspect, the spacer layer has a first hole aligned with one of the sensors to allow at least partial engagement between the first and second contacts of the sensor by the spacer layer. And may include a flow path from the hole to the vent in the insert member. The flow passage allows air to flow from the sensor to the exterior of the insert member between the first and second layers via the first vent. The vent may have a selectively permeable closure member positioned to cover the vent. Further, the vent may be connected to the plurality of sensors by additional flow paths and / or the insert may include a second vent connected to one or more sensors in a similar arrangement. An article of footwear incorporating the insert may include a cavity within the sole member of the footwear located at least partially below the vent. The cavity extends laterally from the vent to a distal end located outside the perimeter boundary of the insert, such that the cavity is configured to allow air exiting the first vent to escape from the insert member. Further, a patch of a dielectric material may be connected to one of the first and second layers and extend across the flow path to be disposed between the first and second layers, wherein the first and the second flow path Resisting a short circuit in one or more conductive members between the second layers.

  According to a further aspect, the insert can include an extension that extends to the recess and integrates the ends of the leads to form an interface. The extension has a strip of reinforcement extending across the end of the lead. The extension has a bend where the extension bends down at or near the periphery of the housing, and a depending portion that extends downward from the bend to the recess. In this configuration, the interface is located in the depending portion within the recess and the strip extends across the bend to provide reinforcement and wear resistance to the bend. The system may also include an interface assembly including a base member and a plurality of electrical connectors supported by the base member. At least a portion of the depending portion is received in the base member, and the ends of the leads engage the electrical connector to form an interface.

  According to yet another aspect, an insert includes a first cutout at an inner edge of the insert member and a second cutout at an outer edge of the insert member near a joint between the forefoot and the midfoot. . The width of the insert defined between the inner and outer edges is greater at the midfoot than at the width measured between the first and second cutouts and at the heel. The insert may also include a hole in the midfoot configured to receive the housing, and the hole may occupy less than half the width of the midfoot. The insert may also include other cutouts.

  Other aspects of the invention relate to sensor systems that include various combinations of the features discussed above.

  A further aspect of the invention relates to a system including an article of footwear with a sensor system as described above, wherein the electronic module is connected to the sensor system and an external device is configured for communication with the electronic module. . The module is configured to receive data from the sensor and transmit the data to an external device, wherein the external device is configured to further process the data.

  According to one aspect, the system also includes an accessory connected to the external device and configured to enable communication between the electronic module and the external device. The accessory device can also be configured for connection with the second external device to enable communication between the electronic module and the second external device.

  Still other features and benefits of the present invention will be apparent from the following specification, taken in conjunction with the following drawings.

It is a side view of a shoe. FIG. 2 is an opposite side view of the shoe of FIG. 1. 1 is a top perspective view of a shoe sole incorporating one embodiment of a sensor system in accordance with aspects of the present invention (with shoe upper removed and foot contact members folded to one side). FIG. 4 is a top perspective view of the sole and sensor system of FIG. 3 with the foot contact members of the shoe and the electronics module removed. FIG. 4 is a top perspective view of the sole of FIG. 3 with the foot contact members of the shoe removed and without the sensor system. 1 is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of an electronic module that is in communication with an external electronic device and can be used in a sensor system. FIG. 4 is a top view of the insert of the sensor system of FIG. 3 adapted to be disposed within a sole structure of a user's right footwear. FIG. 8 is a top perspective view of the insert of FIG. 7. FIG. 8 is a top view of the sensor system of FIG. 3 including the insert of FIG. 7. FIG. 10 is a top perspective view of the sensor system of FIG. 9. FIG. 10 is an enlarged top view of a portion of the sensor system of FIG. 9. FIG. 10 is a top view of the sensor system of FIG. 9 and a similar sensor system adapted for use with a sole structure of a user's left footwear. FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of the insert of FIG. 7, showing four different layers. FIG. 14 is a top view of the first layer of the insert of FIG. FIG. 15 is an enlarged top view of a part of the first layer in FIG. 14. FIG. 14 is a top view of a second layer of the insert of FIG. FIG. 17 is an enlarged top view of a part of the second layer in FIG. 16. FIG. 14 is a top view of the spacer layer of the insert of FIG. FIG. 14 is a top view of the lower layer of the insert of FIG. FIG. 10 is a schematic circuit diagram illustrating one embodiment of a circuit formed by the components of the sensor system of FIG. 9. FIG. 12 is an enlarged cross-sectional view schematically illustrating the area indicated by the straight line 21-21 in FIG. FIG. 10 is a bottom view of the sensor system of FIG. 9. FIG. 22B is a bottom view of the sensor system illustrated in FIG. 22A with a filter connected over a vent of the sensor system. FIG. 9 is a top view of a spacer layer of another embodiment of an insert of a sensor system according to aspects of the present invention, with dashed lines indicating the location of the sensor. FIG. 22C is a bottom view of the insert of the sensor system incorporating the spacer layer of FIG. 22C, with dashed lines indicating the location of the filter connected to the insert. FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of the electronic module of FIG. 6 communicating with an external game device. FIG. 2 is a schematic view of a pair of shoes, each including a sensor system, in a mesh communication mode with an external device. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a pair of shoes, each including a sensor system, in a “daisy-chain” communication mode with an external device. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of a pair of shoes, each including a sensor system, in a mode of independent communication with an external device. 4 is a graph illustrating resistance versus pressure for one embodiment of a sensor according to aspects of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the sole and sensor system of FIG. FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a portion of a sole and sensor system according to aspects of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a top view of the sole of FIG. 3 with the foot contact member in an operable position. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating a view obtained along a straight line 31-31 in FIG. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating a view taken along a straight line 32-32 in FIG. FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of another embodiment of a sensor system according to aspects of the present invention. FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of another embodiment of a sensor system according to aspects of the present invention. FIG. 8 is a schematic sectional view of a sensor of the sensor system of FIG. 7. FIG. 8 is a schematic sectional view of a sensor of the sensor system of FIG. 7. FIG. 10 is a top perspective view of a shoe sole incorporating another embodiment of a sensor system in accordance with aspects of the present invention (with shoe upper removed and foot contact member folded to one side). FIG. 37 is a top perspective view of the sole of FIG. 36 with the foot contact members of the shoe removed and without the sensor system. FIG. 37 is a top perspective view of the sole and sensor system of FIG. 36 with the foot contact members of the shoe and the electronics module removed. FIG. 37 is a top view of the insert of the sensor system of FIG. 36, adapted to be disposed within a sole structure of a user's right footwear. FIG. 40 is a top view of the first layer of the insert of FIG. 39. FIG. 40 is a top view of the second layer of the insert of FIG. 39. FIG. 40 is a top view of the spacer layer of the insert of FIG. 39. FIG. 40 is a top view of the lower layer of the insert of FIG. 39. FIG. 40 is an exploded perspective view of the insert of FIG. 39 showing four different layers. FIG. 10 is a top perspective view of a shoe sole incorporating another embodiment of a sensor system in accordance with aspects of the present invention (with shoe upper removed and foot contact member folded to one side). FIG. 46 is a top perspective view of the sole of FIG. 45 with the foot contact members of the shoe removed and without the sensor system. FIG. 46 is a top perspective view of the sole and sensor system of FIG. 45 with the foot contact members of the shoe and the electronics module removed. FIG. 9 is a top view of another embodiment of an insert of a sensor system adapted to be disposed within a sole structure of a user's right footwear according to aspects of the present invention. FIG. 49 is a top view of the first layer of the insert of FIG. 48. FIG. 49 is a top view of the spacer layer of the insert of FIG. 48. FIG. 49 is a top view of a second layer of the insert of FIG. 48. FIG. 9 is a top view of another embodiment of an insert of a sensor system according to aspects of the present invention. FIG. 53 is a top plan view of the first layer of the insert of FIG. 52. FIG. 53 is a top view of the spacer layer of the insert of FIG. 52. FIG. 53 is a top view of a second layer of the insert of FIG. 52. FIG. 53 is a sectional view taken along the line 56-56 in FIG. 52. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating one embodiment of a method and apparatus for forming a recess in a sole structure of an article of footwear according to aspects of the present invention. FIG. 58 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the sole structure of the article of footwear of FIG. 57 with the insert member and foot contact member of the sensor system connected. FIG. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating another embodiment of a sensor system disposed within a sole structure of an article of footwear, according to aspects of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating another embodiment of a sensor system disposed within a sole structure of an article of footwear, according to aspects of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a foot contact member configured for use in a sensor system according to aspects of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a sensor system according to aspects of the present invention. FIG. 4 illustrates a plan view of a port in an insert member according to aspects of the present invention. FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of a port in an insert member according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 illustrates a partially enlarged plan view of a port in an insert member according to aspects of the present invention. Figure 2 illustrates components of a port housing. Figure 2 illustrates components of a port housing. Figure 2 illustrates components of a port housing. FIG. 5 illustrates a diagram of an interface assembly used at a port. FIG. 5 illustrates a diagram of an interface assembly used at a port. FIG. 5 illustrates a diagram of an interface assembly used at a port. FIG. 5 illustrates a diagram of an interface assembly used at a port. FIG. 9 illustrates a view of an interface assembly operably connected to an insert member. FIG. 9 illustrates a view of an interface assembly operably connected to an insert member. FIG. 7 is a partially enlarged plan view of the port connected to the insert member and the cover member removed. It is a side view of the port attached to the insert member. It is a side view of the port attached to the insert member. FIG. 4 is an additional diagram of a module in accordance with an aspect of the invention. FIG. 4 is an additional diagram of a module in accordance with an aspect of the invention. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a contact according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a module carrier according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a perspective view of the component of a module. It is a perspective view of the component of a module. It is a perspective view of the component of a module. FIG. 4 is a partial cross-sectional view showing overmolding of a contact of a module interface. FIG. 3 is a plan view of a module showing a light assembly according to aspects of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a plan view of a module showing a light assembly according to aspects of the present invention. FIG. 3 is an internal view of a module showing components of the light assembly. FIG. 3 is an internal view of a module showing components of the light assembly. FIG. 3 is an internal view of a module showing components of the light assembly. FIG. 3 is an internal view of a module showing components of the light assembly. FIG. 4 is a diagram of a PCB and a ground plane extender associated with a module according to aspects of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a diagram of a PCB and a ground plane extender associated with a module according to aspects of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a diagram of a PCB and a ground plane extender associated with a module according to aspects of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a diagram of a PCB and a ground plane extender associated with a module according to aspects of the present invention.

(Detailed description)
While this invention is capable of embodiments in many different forms, this disclosure is to be regarded as illustrative of the principles of the present invention and is intended to limit broad aspects of the invention to the illustrated embodiments. With the understanding that this is not the case, preferred embodiments of the present invention are illustrated in the drawings and will be described in detail herein.

  Footwear such as shoes is illustrated in FIGS. 1-2 and is generally designated by the reference numeral 100. Footwear 100 can take many different forms, including, for example, various types of athletic footwear. In the exemplary embodiment, shoe 100 generally includes a force and / or pressure sensor system 12 operatively connected to universal communication port 14. As will be described in further detail below, the sensor system 12 collects performance data regarding the person wearing the shoe 100. Through connection with the general purpose communication port 14, a plurality of different users can access performance data for a variety of different uses, as described in further detail below.

  The article of footwear 100 is illustrated in FIGS. 1-2 and includes an upper 120 and a sole structure 130. For purposes of reference in the following description, footwear 100 may be divided into three general areas, a forefoot 111, a midfoot 112, and a heel 113, as illustrated in FIG. Regions 111-113 are not intended to define a precise area of footwear 100. Rather, areas 111-113 are intended to represent the general area of footwear 100 that provides a framework for reference in the following discussion. Although regions 111-113 generally apply to footwear 100, references to regions 111-113 are also included within upper 120, sole structure 130, or either upper 120 or sole structure 130, and / or Alternatively, it may specifically apply to individual components formed as part of either the upper 120 or the sole structure 130.

  As further shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, upper 120 is secured to sole structure 130 and defines a space or chamber for accommodating a foot. For reference purposes, upper 120 includes an outer portion 121, an opposite inner portion 122, and a bump or instep 123. The outer portion 121 is arranged to extend along the outer portion (ie, the outside) of the foot and generally passes through each of the regions 111-113. Similarly, medial portion 122 is positioned to extend along the opposing medial portion (ie, medial) of the foot and generally passes through each of regions 111-113. The bump part 123 is disposed between the outer part 121 and the inner part 122 and corresponds to the upper surface of the foot or the instep. In the illustrated embodiment, the bumps 123 may include a strap 125 or other desired closure mechanism conventionally used to modify the dimensions of the upper 120 with respect to the foot, thereby adjusting the fit of the footwear 100. Including a throat 124 having Upper 120 also includes a mouthpiece 126 that allows a foot to enter and exit the space inside upper 120. A variety of materials can be used to fabricate upper 120, including those conventionally used in footwear uppers. Thus, upper 120 may be formed from one or more portions of, for example, leather, synthetic leather, natural or synthetic fabrics, polymer sheets, polymer foams, mesh fabrics, felts, nonwoven polymers or rubber materials. The upper 120 may be formed from one or more of these materials, the materials or portions thereof being sewn or glued together, for example, in a manner known and used in the art.

  Upper 120 may also include a heel element (not shown) and a toe element (not shown). The heel element, if present, may extend upwardly along the interior surface of upper 120 at heel 113 to enhance the comfort of footwear 100. The toe element, if present, may be located on the outer surface of the upper 120 at the forefoot 111 to provide abrasion resistance, protect the wearer's toe, and assist in positioning the foot. In some embodiments, one or both of the heel element and the toe element may not be present, or the heel element may be located, for example, on the outer surface of upper 120. Although the configuration of upper 120 described above is suitable for footwear 100, upper 120 may take on any desired configuration of conventional or non-conventional upper structures without departing from the invention.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the sole structure 130 is secured to the lower surface of the upper 120 and may have a generally conventional shape. The sole structure 130 may have a multi-piece structure and includes, for example, a midsole 131, an outsole 132, and a foot contact member 133. The foot contact member 133 is generally a thin compressible member, which is located within the space of the upper 120 and adjacent to the lower surface of the foot (or between the upper 120 and the midsole 131) to enhance the comfort of the footwear 100 I can do it. In various embodiments, foot contact member 133 may be a sock liner, strobel, insole member, bootie element, sock, and the like. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 3-5, the foot contact member 133 is an insole member or a sock liner. The term “foot contact member” as used herein does not necessarily imply direct contact with the user's foot, as another element may prevent direct contact. Rather, the foot contact member forms part of the inner surface of the foot storage compartment of the article of footwear. For example, a user may wear socks that prevent direct contact. As another example, sensor system 12 may be incorporated into an article of footwear designed to be worn over shoes or other articles of foot, such as an external bootie element or shoe cover. In such an article, the upper portion of the sole structure may be considered a foot-contacting member, even though it does not directly contact the user's foot. In some arrangements, an insole or sock liner may not be present, and in other embodiments, footwear 100 may have a foot-contacting member positioned over the insole or sock liner.

  Midsole member 131 may be or include a shock-damping member, and in some embodiments may include multiple members or elements. For example, the midsole member 131 can be a polymer foam material such as polyurethane, ethyl vinyl acetate, or other material (eg, Phylon) that compresses to attenuate ground or other contact surface reaction forces during walking, running, jumping, or other activities. (Phylon), phyllite, etc.). In some exemplary constructions in accordance with the present invention, the polymer foam material may include a fluid-filled bladder or deceleration that enhances the comfort, motion control, stability, and / or ground or other contact surface reaction damping properties of footwear 100. Various elements such as materials may be encapsulated or included. In still other example configurations, the midsole 131 may include additional elements that compress to attenuate ground or other contact surface reaction forces. For example, midsole 131 may include a column-shaped element to assist in cushioning and absorbing force.

  Outsole 132 is secured to the underside of midsole 131 of the illustrated footwear structure 100 and is abrasion-resistant material, such as rubber, or flexible, such as polyurethane, that comes into contact with the ground or other surfaces during movement or other activities. Made of synthetic material. The material forming outsole 132 is manufactured and / or textured with a suitable material to provide enhanced traction and slip resistance. Although the outsole 132 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 is illustrated as having a plurality of cuts or grooves 136 on one or both sides of the outsole 132, many outsoles with various types of treads, contours and other structures are provided. Other types of outsole 132 can be used in connection with the present invention. It is understood that embodiments of the present invention can be used in connection with other types of footwear and sole structures, as well as other types and configurations of shoes.

  1-5 illustrate exemplary embodiments of footwear 100 incorporating a sensor system 12 according to the present invention, and FIGS. 3-22B illustrate exemplary embodiments of the sensor system 12. . The sensor system 12 includes an insert member 37 to which the force and / or pressure sensor assembly 13 is connected. The insert member 37 is configured to be placed in contact with the sole structure 130 of the footwear 100, and in one embodiment, the insert member 37 is generally facing below the foot contact member 133 and above the midsole member 131. It is configured to be arranged in a relationship. The sensor assembly 13 includes a plurality of sensors 16 and a communication or output port 14 in communication with the sensor assembly 13 (eg, electrically connected by a conductor). The port 14 is configured to transmit data received from the sensor 16 to, for example, an electronic module (also referred to as an electronic control device) 22 as described later. Port 14 and / or module 22 may be configured to communicate with external devices, also as described below. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 3-5, the system 12 includes a first sensor 16a in the thumb (first phalanx or thumb) region of the shoe, a second sensor 16b in the first metatarsal head, and a fifth sensor 16b. It has four sensors 16, two sensors 16 b-c on the forefoot of the shoe, including a third sensor 16 c at the metatarsal head, and a fourth sensor 16 d at the heel. These foot areas generally experience the greatest degree of pressure during movement. Each sensor 16 is configured to detect a pressure exerted on the sensor 16 by a user's foot. The sensors communicate with the port 14 by wire leads and / or sensor leads 18, which can be another electrical conductor or a suitable communication medium. For example, in the embodiment of FIGS. 3-5, the sensor leads 18 may be a conductive medium printed on the insert member 37, such as silver-based ink or other metallic ink such as copper and / or tin-based ink. Good. Leads 18 may alternatively be provided as thin wires in one embodiment. In other embodiments, the lead 18 may be connected to the foot contact member 133, the midsole member 131, or another member of the sole structure 130.

  Other embodiments of the sensor system 12 may include different numbers or configurations of sensors 16, and may generally include at least one sensor 16. For example, in one embodiment, system 12 includes more sensors, and in another embodiment, system 12 includes two sensors, one on the heel and one on the forefoot of shoe 100. In addition, sensor 16 may communicate with port 14 in a variety of ways, including any known form of wired or wireless communication, including Bluetooth and near-field communication. A pair of shoes may include a sensor system 12 on each shoe of the pair, the pair of sensor systems may operate synergistically or independently of each other, and the sensor system of each shoe may It is understood that they may or may not communicate with each other. Communication of the sensor system 12 is described in further detail below. The sensor system 12 may include computer programs / algorithms that control the collection and storage of data (e.g., pressure data due to the interaction of the user's foot with the ground or other contact surfaces), and the programs / algorithms may include sensors 16, modules It is understood that it is stored on and / or executed by 22 and / or external device 110.

  The sensor system 12 can be located on the sole 130 of the shoe 100 in several configurations. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 3-5, the port 14, the sensor 16 and the lead 18 are connected to the midsole 131 and the foot contact member 133 by, for example, placing an insert member 37 between the midsole 131 and the foot contact member 133. It may be located between members 133. Insert member 37 may be connected to one or both of the midsole and foot contact member 133 in one embodiment. As described below, a cavity or recess 135 can be located in the midsole 131 (FIG. 5) and / or the foot contact member 133 to receive the electronic module 22, and the port 14 can be accessible from within the recess 135 in one embodiment. . Recess 135 may further house housing 24 of module 22, which may be provided, for example, by providing physical space for port 14 and / or for interconnection between port 14 and module 22. By providing hardware, it can be configured for connection with port 14. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5, the recess 135 is formed by a cavity in the upper major surface of the midsole 131. As shown in FIG. 5, the sole structure 130 may include a compressible sole member 138 that is perforated to receive the housing 24, which allows access to the recess 135 and / or one of the recesses 135. Department. Insert 37 can be positioned over compressible sole member 138 to position housing 24 in recess 135. The compressible sole member 138 may face or directly contact the midsole 131 in one embodiment. It is understood that the compressible sole member 138 may face the midsole 131 with one or more additional structures disposed between the compressible sole member 138 and the midsole 131, such as a strobel member. In the embodiment of FIGS. 3-5, the compressible sole member 138 is in the form of a foam member 138 (eg, an EVA member) disposed between the foot contact member 133 and the midsole 131, which in this embodiment is a lower member. May be considered an insole / sock liner. Foam member 138 may be coupled to strobing 133A (FIG. 58) of midsole 131 in one embodiment, for example, by use of an adhesive, and may cover any stitching of the strobeling, which may include sewn insert 37. This arrangement, which can prevent wear, is shown schematically in FIG. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 3-5, the housing 24 has a plurality of walls, including a side wall 25 and a bottom wall 26, and extends outwardly from the top of the side wall 25 for connection with an insert 37. Including a flange or lip 28 configured for. In one embodiment, the flange 28 is a separate member that connects to the trough 29 to form the housing 24 by a nail 28A that connects through a hole 28B of an insert 37 located at the front end of the hole 27. Nail 28A is connected by ultrasonic welding or other techniques and may be received in a receptacle in one embodiment. In an alternative embodiment, the article of footwear 100 may be manufactured with the tub 29 formed in the sole structure 130, and the flange 28 may be connected later, eg, by a snap connection, after other parts of the port have also been assembled. Can be done. The housing 24 may include retaining structures that retain the module 22 within the housing 24, such retaining structures being complementary to the retaining structures of the module 22, such as tab / flange and slot arrangements, complementary tabs, locking members, friction fit members, and the like. May be targeted. The housing 24 also includes a finger recess 29A located on the flange 28 and / or the trough 29, which provides room for a user's finger to engage the module 22 to remove the module 22 from the housing 24. Flange 28 provides a broad base that engages the top of insert 37, which spreads the forces exerted on insert 37 and / or foot contact member 133 by flange 28, which causes severe deformation and deformation of such components. And / or reduce the likelihood of damage. The rounded corners of the flange 28 also help to avoid damage to the insert 37 and / or the foot contact member 133. It is understood that the flanges 28 may be different shapes and / or profiles in other embodiments, and may provide similar functionality with different shapes and / or profiles.

  The foot contact member 133 is configured to rest on the foam member 138 to cover the insert 37, and has a recess in its lower major surface to provide room for the housing 24, as shown in FIG. 134. The foot contact member 133 may be adhered to the foam member 138 and, in one embodiment, is adhered only at the forefoot to lift the foot contact member 133 to allow access to the module 22 as shown in FIG. obtain. Additionally, foot contact member 133 includes an adhesive or high friction material (not shown), such as a silicone material, disposed on at least a portion of the lower surface to resist displacement with respect to insert 37 and / or foam member 138. obtain. For example, in embodiments where the foot contact member 133 is glued at the forefoot and free at the heel (eg, FIG. 3), the foot contact member 133 may have an adhesive material disposed on the heel. Adhesive materials may also enhance sealing to resist dust penetration into the sensor system. In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 60, the foot contact member 133 is configured to be positioned over the port 14 and dimensioned to allow insertion and / or removal of the module 22 through the foot contact member 133. Or a hatch 137 that is set to The embodiment of the foot contact member 133 illustrated in FIG. 60 may be useful in place of the foot contact member 133 in FIG. 3, 36 or 45 to allow access to the port 14 and the module 22. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 60, the door 137 has a hinge 137A formed by a material appendage along one edge of the door 137, allowing the door 137 to pivotally open and close. Further, the door 137 is formed of the same material as the foot contact member 133 in this embodiment, so that the inclusion of the door 137 does not lose any significant loss of cushioning. Further, door 137 may have tabs 137B or other structures that assist the user in gripping and manipulating door 137. In one embodiment, the sensor system 12 may be located below the foot contact member 133, and the door 137 may allow access to the port 14 in such an embodiment (not shown). In another embodiment, door 137 may have a hinge at another edge, or may open in a different manner, such as being removed, sliding, or the like. In one embodiment, foot contact member 133 may also have graphic marks 92 thereon, as described below.

  In one embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 3-5 and 7, the foam member 138 may also include a recess 139 having the same peripheral shape as the insert 37 for receiving the insert 37 therein. The lower layer 69 (FIG. 13) of the insert member 37 may include an adhesive backing to hold the insert 37 inside the recess 139. In one embodiment, a relatively strong adhesive, such as a quick bond acrylic adhesive, can be utilized for this purpose. The insert 37 has a hole or space 27 for receiving and providing a location for the housing 24. Foam member 138 in this embodiment may also allow housing 24 to pass completely through and / or through at least a portion of strobel and / or midsole 131. In the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 3-5, the foot contact member 133 may have a reduced thickness as compared to a typical foot contact member 133 (eg, a sock liner), and the thickness of the foam member 138 may be reduced. This results in a cushion substantially equivalent to a reduction in the thickness of the foot contact member 133. In one embodiment, foot contact member 133 may be a sock liner approximately 2-3 mm thick, foam member 138 may have a thickness of approximately 2 mm, and recess 139 may have a depth of approximately 1 mm. Have. Foam member 138 may be adhesively connected to insert member 37 prior to connecting foam member 138 to article of footwear 100 in one embodiment. This configuration allows the adhesive between the foam member 138 and the insert 37 to harden in a flat condition before attaching the foam member to the strobel or other portion of the footwear 100, which generally causes the foam member 138 to bend or curve. Otherwise, delamination can occur. The foam member 138 to which the insert 37 is adhered may be provided in this configuration as a single product for insertion into the article of footwear 100 in one embodiment. The arrangement of ports 14 in FIGS. 3-5 not only presents minimal contact, irritation or other interference with the user's foot, but also provides easy accessibility by simply lifting foot contact member 133.

  In the embodiment of FIGS. 3-5, the housing 24 extends completely through the insert 37 and the foam member 138, and the recess 135 also extends completely through the strawbell 133A and partially extends the footwear 100. 58, receives the housing 24 as schematically illustrated in FIG. In another embodiment, the recess 135 may be configured differently, and in one embodiment, may be located completely below the strawbell 133A, such that a window through the strawbell 133A allows access to the module 22 of the recess 135. I do. The recess 135 cuts or removes material from the strawbell 133A and / or the midsole 131, forms the strawbell 133A and / or the midsole 131 with the recess included therein, or other technology or other technology. It can be formed using a variety of techniques, including combinations. In one embodiment, a hot knife 109 is used to cut through the strawbell 133A and into the midsole 131, as illustrated schematically in FIG. To form In this embodiment, the hot knife 109 comprises a wall 109A extending around the hot knife 109 defining a cavity 109B for receiving the piece 135A to be removed, as well as a fork extending downward through the center of the piece 135A. 109C. The wall 109A cuts into the straw bell 135A and the midsole 131 to cut the outer boundary of the portion 133A to be removed. Both forks 109C weaken the bottom side of piece 135A to aid removal and also help retain piece 135A inside cavity 109B during removal, so that piece 135A simply removes hot knife 109. It can be removed by lifting it away from the sole structure 130. In one embodiment, hot knife 109 may be heated to a temperature between 250-260C. In other embodiments, a hot knife 109 (which may be otherwise configured) may be utilized to form the otherwise shaped and / or configured recess 135 in the sole structure 130. FIG. 58 schematically illustrates the insert 37 connected to the sole structure 130 and the housing 24 received in the recess 135 after formation. As shown in FIG. 58, the housing 24 fits tightly with the wall of the recess 135, which can be advantageous because the gap between the housing 24 and the recess 135 can be a source of material failure. The process of removing pieces 135 can be automated using a suitable computer controller.

  Recess 135 may be located at other locations in sole structure 130 in further embodiments. For example, the recess 135 can be located on the upper major surface of the foot contact member 133 and the insert 37 can be located on the foot contact member 133. As another example, the recess 135 can be located on the lower major surface of the foot contact member 133 and the insert 37 is located between the foot contact member 133 and the midsole 131. As a further example, the recess 135 may be located on the outsole 132 and may be accessible from outside the shoe 100, for example, by an opening in the side, bottom or heel of the sole 130. In the configuration illustrated in FIGS. 3-5, port 14 is easily accessible for connection or removal of electronic module 22, as described below. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 59, the foot contact member 133 has the insert 37 connected to the bottom surface, and the port 14 and the recess 135 have, for example, the same configuration as described above and illustrated in FIG. Is formed. Although the interface 20 is located on the side of the housing 24 as also shown for other embodiments, it is understood that the interface 20 can be located in other locations, for example, for engagement by the top of the module 22. Is done. Module 22 can be modified to accommodate such changes. In this embodiment, the foot contact member 133 is provided with an opening (eg, as in FIG. 60) for accessing the module 22, or is pulled up to access the module 22, as shown in FIG. May be. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 59A, the insert 37 is positioned in contact with the midsole member 131 below both the foot contact member 133 and the straw bell 133A. In this embodiment, the straw bell 133A and / or the foot contacting member 133 is provided with an opening to access the module 22 and / or is pulled up to access the module 22, as shown in FIG. May be.

  In other embodiments, sensor system 12 may be arranged differently. For example, in one embodiment, insert 37 may be located inside outsole 132, midsole 131 or foot contact member 133. In one exemplary embodiment, the insert 37 may be located within a foot contact member 133 located above an insole member, such as a sock, sock liner, internal footwear bootie or other similar, or the foot contact member 133 and the insole member And between them. Still other configurations are possible, and some embodiments of other configurations are described below. As mentioned above, it is understood that the sensor system 12 can be included in each shoe in pairs.

  The insert member 37 in the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 3-22B is formed from a plurality of layers including at least a first layer 66 and a second layer 68. The first and second layers 66, 68 are formed from a flexible film material such as Mylar® or other PET (polyethylene terephthalate) film, or another polymer film such as polyamide. In one embodiment, the first and second layers 66, 68 may each be a PET film having a thickness of 0.05-0.2 mm, for example, 125 [mu] m. Further, in one embodiment, each of the first and second layers 66, 68 has a minimum bend radius of 2 mm or less. The insert 37 further includes a spacer layer 67 disposed between the first and second layers 66, 68 and / or a lower layer 69 disposed below the second layer 68 and at the bottom of the insert 37. And they are included in the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. The layers 66, 67, 68, 69 of the insert 37 stack on top of each other in a face-to-face relationship with one another, and in one embodiment, the layers 66, 67, 68, 69 all have similar or identical peripheral shapes, Overlaid on top of each other (FIG. 13). In one embodiment, the spacer layer 67 and the lower layer 69 may each have a thickness of 89-111 μm, for example, 100 μm. The overall thickness of the insert member 37 may be about 450 μm in one embodiment, or about 428-472 μm in another embodiment, and about 278-622 μm in a further embodiment. Insert 37 may also include an additional adhesive that is 100-225 μm thick, and in other embodiments, may further include one or more optional reinforcement layers, such as an additional PET layer. Further, in one embodiment, the entire four-layer insert has a minimum bend radius of 5 mm or less, as described above. The orientation of the first and second layers 66, 68 is in another embodiment, for example, by placing the first layer 66 below the second layer 68 with the second layer 68 as the top layer. It is understood that the opposite can be done. In the embodiment of FIGS. 3-22B, the first and second layers 66, 68 include various circuits, including the sensors 16, leads 18, resistors 53, 54, paths 50, dielectric patches 80, and other components. Other components are printed thereon, which are described in further detail below. The components are printed on the lower surface of the first layer 66 and on the upper side of the second layer 68 in the embodiments of FIGS. 3-22B, but in other embodiments at least some of the components are first and second. It can be printed on the opposite side of the two layers 66,68. It is understood that components located on the first layer 66 and / or the second layer 68 can be moved / transposed to other layers 66,68. In one embodiment, components may be printed on layers 66, 68 in a manner that limits the total number of printer passes required, and in one embodiment, all components of individual layers 66, 68 are It can be printed in a single pass.

  Layers 66, 67, 68, 69 may be connected together in one embodiment by an adhesive or other bonding material. The spacer layer 67 may include an adhesive on one or both surfaces in one embodiment to connect to the first and second layers 66,68. The lower layer 69 may also have an adhesive on one or both surfaces to connect to the article of footwear 100 as well as the second layer 68. The first or second layer 66, 68 may additionally or alternatively have an adhesive surface for this purpose. A variety of other techniques can be used to connect layers 66, 67, 68, 69 in other embodiments, for example, heat sealing, spot welding, or other known techniques.

  The insert 37, foot contact 133, and / or other components of the sensor system 12 and footwear 100 may also include a graphic design or other markings thereon (not shown). The graphic design may be provided on one or more graphic layers (not shown) that may be connected to the insert 37, for example, by overlaying a graphic layer on the first layer 66. The graphic design may correspond to a sensor assembly 13, leads 18, and various other components supported by the layers. For example, in the embodiment of FIG. 60, the foot contact member 133 has a graphic mark 92 that forms a graphic depiction of the insert 37 of the sensor system 12 located below the foot contact member 133. Other graphic designs, including informative, decorative, and other designs, can be used in other embodiments.

  The insert 37 illustrated in FIGS. 3-22B has a configuration that can utilize less material than other insert configurations and can provide greater resistance to tearing at common stress points. In this embodiment, the insert 37 has some portions of material removed from the area of the insert 37, for example, at the outer forefoot or outer and medial heels. The insert 37 of this configuration includes a middle foot 37A configured to engage the middle foot of the user's foot and a forefoot 37B configured to engage the forefoot (ie, metatarsal) of the user's foot. The heel 37C extends rearward from the midfoot 37A, the first phalange 37D extends forward from the forefoot, and the heel and the first phalange of the user's foot engage respectively. It is configured to do so. FIGS. 4, 8, 10 and 22A illustrate these features in more detail. It is understood that depending on the shape of the user's foot, the first phalange 37D may engage only the first phalange of the user's foot. In this embodiment, the width of the forefoot 37B is greater than the width of the middle foot 37A, and the middle and forefoot 37A-B both have a width greater than the first phalanx 37D and the heel 37C; Thereby, the first phalange 37D and the heel 37C are configured as peninsulas extending in an elongated manner forward or backward from the bases of the wide middle foot and forefoot 37A-B respectively to the free ends. As noted herein, the width of a portion of the insert 37 is measured in the medial-lateral direction, and the length is measured in the front-to-back (toe-heel) direction. In the embodiment of FIGS. 3-22B, the first phalange 37D is provided with one of the sensors 16a for the first phalange of the user to engage, and the heel 37C is for the heel of the user to engage. , Another one of the sensors 16d is arranged. The remaining two sensors 16b, 16c are connected to the forefoot 37B of the insert 37, in particular, the first and fifth metatarsal heads, respectively, for engaging the first and fifth metatarsal heads of the user's foot. Located on the fifth metatarsal head. The midfoot 37A includes a hole 27 for receiving the housing 24 and the module 22, the hole 27 defining two bands 88 extending between and connecting the forefoot 37B and the heel 37C. I do. In one embodiment, band 88 has a minimum width of 8 mm or a width in the range of 3-5% of the total length of insert 37. In this use, the length of the insert 37 is measured from the extreme end of the forefoot of the first phalanx 37D to the extreme end of the heel of the heel 37C. This width helps to avoid failure during use, as these bands 88 are subject to high stresses during use. In other embodiments, band 88 may be reinforced by additional structure. For example, in one embodiment, the band 88 and / or other portions of the insert 37 may be reinforced with fibers or similar structures. As another example, insert 37 may include additional structural layers, such as an additional structural layer that completely surrounds housing 24 and occupies the entirety of both bands 88 and the junction between band 88 and the remainder of insert 37. A structural layer may be included on at least a portion of the insert 37 in one embodiment.

  In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 3-22B, the insert 37 has a peripheral edge that defines the outer periphery of the insert 37. The peripheral edge portion extends from the rear of the heel portion 37C to the front end of the first phalanx portion 37D along the inner portion of the insert 37, the outer edge 86 extending from the rear of the heel portion 37C to the front of the forefoot portion 37B, Includes a leading edge 87 extending along the second, third, fourth, and fifth metatarsal portions of the insert 37 from the outer edge 86 to the first phalanx portion 37D. Inner edge 85, outer edge 86 and leading edge 87 each have a cutout in this embodiment, as shown, for example, in FIGS. 8, 10 and 22A. The cutout 87A along the front edge 87 is located between the outer edge 86 and the first phalanx 37D (ie, peninsula). Cutouts 85A, 86A along the inner and outer edges 85, 86 are located near the junction between the forefoot 37B and the midfoot 37A. The width W1 of the insert 37 at the midfoot 37A (defined between the inner and outer edges 85, 86) and the width W2 at the forefoot 37B are measured between the first and second cutouts 85A, 86A. It is larger than the width W3 of the insert. This configuration creates a narrow neck 89 between the midfoot 37A and the forefoot 37B. Neck 89 is narrower than either middle foot 37A or forefoot 37B. The widths W1, W2 of the middle foot 37A and the forefoot 37B are also larger than the width W4 measured at the heel 37C, and the forefoot 37B has the largest relative width W2. The heel portion 37C in this embodiment includes a widened tail portion 37E that is wider than the front portion of the heel portion 37C, so that the heel portion 37C has a width from the middle foot portion 37A toward the heel end of the insert member 37. Increase.

  Cutouts 85A, 86A, 87A each extend inwardly into the body of insert 37 and generally have a concave and / or concave shape. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 3-22B, each of the cutouts 85A, 86A, 87A has a smooth, concave, inwardly curved (curved) shape, which curve includes a rip, Resists tearing or crack propagation. In this embodiment, each of the cutouts 85A, 86A, 87A is at least partially defined by a concave curved edge defining an arc of at least 120 °. Further, in one embodiment, at least one of the cutouts 85A, 86A, 87A is at least partially defined by a concave curvilinear edge defining an arc of at least 180 °. For example, as seen in FIGS. 8, 10 and 22A, at least the inner and outer cutouts 85A, 86A are each at least partially defined by a concave curved edge defining an arc of at least 180 °. Further, each of the cutouts 85A, 86A, 87A in this embodiment is delimited on both sides by a smoothly curved edge located on the outer periphery of the insert at the inner, outer and leading edges 85, 86, 87. . One or both of the smoothly curved edges defining each of the cutouts 85A, 86A, 87A define an arc of at least 90 ° in this embodiment. The use of these configurations of cutouts 85A, 86A, 87A at these locations increases the durability and life of insert 37, for example, by resisting ripping, tearing, or crack propagation in insert 37 as described above. it can. In this embodiment, the cutouts 85A, 86A, 87A are located in high stress areas where this damage resistance is most beneficial. Inserts 37 configured as shown in FIGS. 3-22B can have sufficient fatigue resistance to withstand stresses of up to 20 MPa and up to 20 MPa.

  In further embodiments, insert 37 may have different cutouts and / or may have cutouts in the same location but different shapes. For example, the insert 37 'shown in FIGS. 22C-D has cutouts 85A, 86A, 87A at similar locations as compared to the insert 37 of FIGS. 3-22B, but only a few cutouts 85A, 86A, 87A. Have different peripheral shapes. In this embodiment, the inner cutout 85A defines a smaller arc than the inner cutout 85A of the insert 37 of FIGS. The front cutout 87A of this embodiment defines a less curved and flat curved shape than the front cutout 87A of the insert 37 of FIGS. 3-22B.

  FIGS. 36-47 illustrate a further embodiment of a sensor system 412, 512 with inserts 437, 537 having different shapes and configurations than the sensor system 12 and insert 37 illustrated in FIGS. The sensor systems 412, 512 of FIGS. 36-47 include many structural and functional features in common with the sensor system 12 of FIGS. For example, the sensor systems 412, 512 include a sensor 16 that is configured and arranged substantially the same as the sensor system 12 of FIGS. As another example, sensor system 412, 512, like sensor system 12 of FIGS. 3-22B, includes a path 50 between two fixed resistors 53, 54 and layers 66, 68 in parallel. These and other such common features are not described again here for brevity.

  In the embodiment of FIGS. 36-44, insert 437 has cutouts 85A, 86A, 87A at similar locations as compared to insert 37 of FIGS. It has different peripheral shapes. In this embodiment, the inner cutout 85A defines a smaller arc than the inner cutout 85A of the insert 37 of FIGS. The front cutout 87A of this embodiment defines a deeper, larger arc as compared to the front cutout 87A of the insert 37 of FIGS. The outer cutout 86A of this embodiment defines a shallower and smaller arc than the outer cutout 86A of the insert 37 of FIGS. Further, the insert 437 of FIGS. 36-44 has a heel 37C of approximately constant width and no widening tail 37E.

  In the embodiment of FIGS. 45-47, the insert 537 has cutouts 85A, 86A, 87A at similar positions as compared to the insert 37 of FIGS. It has different peripheral shapes. In this embodiment, the inner cutout 85A defines a smaller arc than the inner cutout 85A of the insert 37 of FIGS. The outer cutout 86A of this embodiment defines a shallower and smaller arc than the outer cutout 86A of the insert 37 of FIGS. The leading edge 87 of the insert 537 of FIGS. 45-48 is angled consistently from the first phalanx 37D to the fifth metatarsal sensor 16c and is substantially straight to the front cutout 87A. The edge is defined. The resulting front cutout 87A defines a smaller arc than the front cutout 87A of the insert 37 of FIGS. Further, the insert 537 of FIGS. 45-48 has a heel 37C of approximately constant width and no widening tail 37E. Although the leads 18 and many other components of the sensor system 512 of FIGS. 45-48 are not illustrated and / or referenced herein, such components are not illustrated in the sensor system 12 and / or FIG. 36 of FIGS. It is understood that the corresponding components in the ~ 44 sensor system 412 can be configured (structurally and / or functionally) similar or identically.

  It is understood that the inserts 37, 37 ′, 437, 537 may have different insert configurations or peripheral shapes, with any number of different configurations, shapes and configurations, including different numbers and / or configurations of the sensors 16. . For example, any of the inserts 37, 37 ', 437, 537 described herein may be otherwise contoured, dimensioned, and configured, such as, for example, cutouts 85A, 86A, 87A and other features of the surrounding shape. Some or all of the structural features and functions related to such structural features may be included as described above. Further, any of the inserts 37, 37 ', 437, 537 described herein may include additional or different structural features that can provide various shapes and / or functionality.

  In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 3-22B, sensor 16 is a force and / or pressure sensor for measuring pressure and / or force on sole 130. The sensor 16 has a resistance that decreases as the pressure on the sensor 16 increases, so that a measurement of the resistance by the port 14 can be performed to detect the pressure on the sensor 16. The sensor 16 in the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 3-22B is oval or obround in shape, which makes a single sensor size available in several different shoe sizes. The sensor 16 in this embodiment each includes two contacts 40, 42 including a first contact 40 located on a first layer 66 and a second contact 42 located on a second layer 68. Here, a diagram illustrating the first layer 66 is a top view, wherein the electronic structure (including the contacts 40, the leads 18, etc.) is located on the bottom side of the first layer 66, especially otherwise. It is understood that, unless otherwise indicated, it is visible through the transparent or translucent first layer 66. The contacts 40, 42 are arranged opposite one another and are in an overlapping relationship with each other, whereby pressure on the insert member 37, for example by a user's foot, increases engagement between the contacts 40, 42. As the engagement between contacts 40, 42 increases, the resistance of sensor 16 decreases, and module 22 is configured to detect pressure based on the change in resistance of sensor 16. In one embodiment, the contacts 40, 42 may be formed by conductive patches printed on the first and second layers 66, 68, for example, in the embodiment of FIGS. , 42 may be formed of the same or different materials. Further, in one embodiment, the leads 18 are formed of a material having higher conductivity and lower resistance than the material (s) of the sensor contacts 40,42. For example, the patch may be formed of carbon black or another conductive carbon material. Further, in one embodiment, the two contacts 40, 42 are formed of the same material or two materials of similar hardness that can contact each other to reduce wear and abrasion due to differences in material hardness. Can be done. In this embodiment, the first contact 40 is printed on the lower surface of the first layer 66 and the second contact 42 is printed on the upper side of the second layer 68 to allow engagement between the contacts 40,42. To The embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 3-22B include a spacer layer 67. The spacer layer 67 insulates the other portions of the first and second layers 66, 68 from each other, while the holes 43 are formed in each sensor 16 to allow engagement of the contacts 40, 42 through the spacer layer 67. It is located at. In one embodiment, each hole 43 is aligned with one of the sensors 16 to allow at least partial engagement between the contacts 40, 42 of each sensor 16. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 7-18, the holes 43 have a smaller area than the sensor contacts 40, 42 and allow the centers of the contacts 40, 42 to engage with each other, while the contacts 40, 42 And the power distribution leads 18A are insulated from each other (see, for example, FIGS. 13 and 35A-B). In another embodiment, holes 43 may be dimensioned to allow engagement between contacts 40, 42 across their surfaces. It is understood that the size, dimensions, profile and structure of the sensor 16 and contacts 40, 42 can be varied in other embodiments while retaining similar functionality. Also, sensors 16 having the same size are available in different sizes of inserts 37 of different shoe sizes, in which case the dimensions of sensor 16 relative to the overall dimensions of insert 37 may be different for different insert 37 sizes. Is understood.

  In other embodiments, the sensor system 12 may have a sensor 16 configured differently than the sensor 16 of the embodiments of FIGS. For example, FIGS. 33-34 illustrate further embodiments of sensor systems 212, 312 having sensors 16 configured differently than sensor 16 in sensor system 12 of FIGS. 3-22B. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 33-34, the contacts 40, 42 of the sensor 16 of FIGS. 33-34 are configured differently than the contacts 40, 42 of the sensor 16 in the embodiment of FIGS. . Other components and features of the sensor systems 212, 312 are similar or identical to those of the sensor system 12 of FIGS. 3-22B, including any variations or alternative embodiments described herein. As another example, FIGS. 48-51 illustrate a sensor system 712 including a sensor 16 having contacts 740, 742, 744 configured differently from the sensor 16 and contacts 40, 42 of the embodiment of FIGS. Is illustrated by way of example. In further embodiments, the sensor 16 can utilize different configurations that do not include carbon-based or similar contacts 40, 42 and / or may not function as the resistive sensor 16. Examples of such sensors include a capacitive pressure sensor or a strain gauge pressure sensor, among other embodiments.

  As further shown in FIGS. 3-22B, in one embodiment, insert 37 may include an internal airflow system 70 configured to allow airflow within insert 37 during compression and / or bending of insert 37. . 9, 11, 13, 18, 22A-B and 28-30 illustrate the components of the airflow system 70 in more detail. The airflow system 70 may include one or more air passages or passages 71 which communicate from the sensor 16 to one or more vents 72 during which air is compressed from the sensor 16 to the first and second vents. Allows flow between the layers 66, 68 outwardly through the vent (s) 72 to the outside of the insert 37. The airflow system 70 counteracts the buildup of excess pressure during compression of the sensor 16 and allows for stable separation of the contacts 40, 42 of the sensor 16 at various barometric pressures and altitudes, leading to more stable performance. Channel 71 may be formed between first and second layers 66,68. As shown in FIG. 18, the spacer layer 67 has channels 71 formed therein, and air allows these channels 71 to pass between the first and second layers 66, 68 with appropriate vent (s) 72. Can flow to The vents 72 may have a filter 73 over them in one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 22B. These filters 73 can be configured to allow air, moisture and debris to escape from vent 72 and resist the passage of moisture and debris into vent 72. In another embodiment, the insert 37 may not include a spacer layer, and the channel 71 may be formed by not sealing the layers 66, 68 together in a particular pattern, for example, by applying a non-sealable material. Thus, the airflow system 70 may be considered to be integral with or directly defined by the layers 66, 68 in such embodiments. In other embodiments, the airflow system 70 may include a different number or configuration of air passages 71, vents 72, and / or other passages.

  In the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 3-22B, 28 and 30, the airflow system 70 includes two vents 72 and a plurality of airflows connecting each of the four sensors 16 to one of the vents 72. Road 71. The spacer layer 67, in this embodiment, includes holes 43 at each sensor, and the channel 71 is connected to the holes 43 to allow air to flow out of the sensor 16 through the channel 71. Further, in this embodiment, two of the sensors 16 are connected to each of the vents 72 by a flow path 71. For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 7-18, the first metatarsal sensor 16b has a channel 71 that extends to a vent 72 slightly behind the first metatarsal portion of the insert 37, and The sensor 16a has a flow path 71 that also extends to the same vent 72 by a path including movement within the first metatarsal sensor 16b. In other words, the first phalange sensor 16a has a channel 71 extending from the hole 43 of the first phalange sensor 16a to the hole 43 of the first metatarsal sensor 16b, and another channel 71 is provided by the first metatarsal sensor 16b. To vent 72. The fifth metatarsal sensor 16c and the heel sensor 16d also share a common vent 72 located at the heel of the insert 37. One flow path 71 extends rearward from the hole 43 of the fifth metatarsal sensor 16c to the vent 72, and another flow path 71 extends forward from the hole 43 of the heel sensor 16d to the vent 72. By sharing vent 72 with multiple sensors, costs can be reduced, especially by avoiding the need for additional filters 73. In other embodiments, the airflow system 70 may have different configurations, for example, the configurations illustrated in FIGS. 22C-D and discussed below. In further embodiments, each sensor 16 may have its own individual vent 72, or more than two sensors 16 may share the same vent 72.

  Each vent 72 is formed as an opening on the bottom side of the second layer 68 (i.e., opposite the first layer 66) so that the openings are in the airflow system as seen in FIGS. 70 allows an outward flow of air, moisture and / or debris. In another embodiment, vent 72 may include multiple openings. In a further embodiment, vent 72 may be additionally or alternatively formed by openings in first layer 66 to allow air to vent upwardly from insert 37. In an additional embodiment, the vent 72 may be provided on the side (thin edge) of the insert 37 by extending the channel 71 to the edge, for example, such that the channel 71 communicates outside the insert 37 through the edge. There may be. Evacuating the air downwards makes it more difficult for debris to enter vent 72, as in the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. When present, lower layer 69 also includes an opening 74 located below vent 72 to allow air exiting vent 72 to pass through lower layer 69. The openings 74 are significantly larger than the vents 72 to allow the filter 73 to be bonded to the second layer 68 by the lower layer 69 around each vent 72, as described below. Further, in this embodiment, each vent 72 has a reinforcement 75 positioned around the vent 72 to add stability and strength to the material and to prevent fracture / tear. In the illustrated embodiment, the reinforcement 75 is formed of the same material as the leads 18 (eg, silver or other metallic ink) to aid printing, but with the sensor contacts 40, 42 (eg, carbon) or the It may be formed of the same material as the studied dielectric material.

  The vent 72 in the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 3-22B, 28 and 30 is open downwardly, and air passing through the vent 72 passes downwardly to the midsole 131 and, if present, toward the foam member 138. . In the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 3-5, 28 and 30, the foam member 138 has a cavity 76 positioned directly below the vent 72 and configured to allow air exiting the vent to pass to the respective cavity 76. . In the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 3-5, 28, and 30, each cavity 76 is formed as a slot that extends completely through the foam member 138, which may be formed by punching, cutting, or another technique. . In another embodiment, the cavity 76 is a recess that extends through only a portion of the foam member 138 or, for example, into at least a portion of the structure below the foam member 138 (eg, (Strawbell, midsole, etc.). In a further embodiment, the sole structure may not include the foam member 138, and the cavity 76 is at least partially formed by a slot, recess, or other cavity-like structure in another sole member, such as a straw bell, midsole, or the like. Can be done. As shown in FIG. 5, at least a portion of the cavity 76 may be circular in one embodiment, and may extend wider than the vent 72 to provide space for venting. This configuration allows air to escape from vent 72 without being obstructed by foam member 138. In another embodiment, the insert 37 may be positioned above another sole member (such as a portion of the midsole 131), which may include one or more cavities 76 as described above. In further embodiments, the cavities may not be present and air may vent 72 directly down into the foam member 138 or other sole member. One or both of the cavities 76 may have extensions forming passages 77 that further allow air to escape from the cavities 76. In the embodiments of FIGS. 3-5, 28 and 30, each of the cavities 76 has a channel portion 77 that extends away from the cavity 76 and extends laterally beyond the peripheral boundary of the insert 37. In other words, the channel portion 77 of the cavity 76 extends laterally from the vent 72 to a distal end 78 located outside the peripheral boundary of the insert 37. If the foam member 138 has a recess 139 for receiving the insert member 37, it is understood that the end 78 of the channel 77 of the cavity 76 may also be located outside the perimeter boundary of the recess 139. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 3-5, the distal end 78 extends to the edge of the foam member 138. This configuration allows air entering the cavity 76 to exit the sole structure 130 by exiting the foam member 138 laterally and upward and / or outwardly within the flow path 77. FIG. 28 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of this configuration, in which the arrows illustrate the flow of air. The configurations illustrated in FIGS. 3-5, 28, and 30 prevent the transfer of debris (eg, dust, fibers, etc.) and moisture from migrating to vent 72 while air flows out of vent 72 and possibly to vent 72. Allow to flow back. The combined lower, lateral and upper paths that air must pass to move in and out of vent 72 act to counter this movement, and debris often mimics a drain trap in plumbing applications. And is captured near the end 78 of the cavity 76.

  In another embodiment, the distal end 78 can stop inside the foam member 138 and at a point outside the perimeter boundary of the insert 37. The distal end 78 allows air to escape upwardly from the cavity 76 of the distal end 78 and provides the same or similar functionality. Figures 36-38 and 47 illustrate exemplary embodiments of this configuration. The foot contact member 133 in the embodiment of FIGS. 36-38 and 47 is formed at the distal end 78 of the cavity 76 to allow passage of air through the foot contact member 133, for example, the passage 79 illustrated in FIGS. It is understood that it may include a passage disposed therearound. In a further embodiment, at least a portion of the channel portion 77 may be a tunnel within the foam member 138, rather than a slit. In such a configuration, the channel portion 77 may have a tunnel portion and an opening to allow air to escape upward through the tunnel, or the tunnel portion may be foamed to allow lateral ventilation. It may extend all the way to the edge of member 138. FIG. 29 shows a cross section of an alternative embodiment, in which the foam member 138 includes a cavity 76 but does not include any channel portion 77.

  In addition, foot contact member 133 includes one or more passages 79 extending through foot contact member 133 located at distal end 78 of cavity 76 in the embodiments of FIGS. As shown in FIGS. 28 and 30, the passage 79 may be a pinhole type passage 79 extending vertically through the foot contact member 133. In another embodiment, different types of passages 79 can be used, including slits or grooves, wherein at least one passage 79 extends through the thickness of foot contact member 133 and not to the side of foot contact member 133 It may extend laterally. Passage 79 allows air exiting through vent 72 and further out through cavity 76 to exit sole structure 130 through foot contacting member 133. In another embodiment, foot contact member 133 may not include any passage (s) 79. Nevertheless, foot contact member 133 can provide ventilation in a configuration without any passageway (s) 79, for example, by using a breathable foam or other breathable material to fabricate foot contact member 133.

  As described above, in one embodiment, the insert 37 may have one or more filters 73 that at least partially cover the vent (s) 72, as seen in FIGS. 22B and 28-29. Filter 73 may be thought of as a selectively permeable closure over vent 72. The filter 73 allows at least the passage of air from the vent 72 and resists the passage of certain undesirable substances to the vent. For example, in the embodiments of FIGS. 3-22B, 28 and 30, the filter 73 allows inward and outward flow of air, while allowing the outward flow of moisture while inward of moisture and / or particulates. A selectively permeable closure that resists the flow of air. One type of filter 73 that can achieve this function is a fluororesin porous membrane, for example, a porous membrane containing PTFE (ie, Teflon (registered trademark)) fiber. Such a porous membrane may be a porous membrane having a thickness of 10 μm to 100 μm in one embodiment. In the filter 73 including PTFE fibers, the high surface energy of PTFE causes water to be spherical instead of permeating on the surface of the filter 73. Filter 73 may also have an adhesive on one side to allow connection of filter 73 to insert 37, and may further include another material, such as a polyester material to impart shear strength to the porous membrane. It may be connected to either the facing side or the outward side. In the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 3-22B, 28 and 30, the filter 73 is adhered to the bottom side of the second layer 68 around the vent 72 to cover the vent 72. The lower layer 69, in the embodiments of FIGS. 3-22B, 28 and 30, includes an opening 74 that is significantly larger than the vent 72, allowing the filter 73 to be adhered to the second layer 68. In other embodiments, different types of filters 73 can be used and / or filters 73 can be connected to insert 37 in other manners. In a further embodiment, the filter 73 may not be used.

  FIGS. 36-44 illustrate a sensor system 412 with an insert 437 that includes an airflow system 70 with a flow path 71 and vent 72 arranged differently than the insert 37 described above and shown in FIGS. 3-22B. 22C-D and 45-47 illustrate a further embodiment of an insert member 37 ', 537 that includes an airflow system 70 with channels 71 and vents 72 arranged similarly to the insert 437 of FIGS. ing. The locations of sensors 16a-d in the embodiment of FIGS. 22C-D are generally the same as in the embodiments of FIGS. 3-22B, 28 and 30, and are illustrated in FIG. Such structural features will not be described again here for brevity. In the embodiment of the insert 437 in FIGS. 36-44, the first phalange sensor 16a and the first metatarsal sensor 16b are connected to the same vent 72 by the flow path 71 having substantially the same configuration as described above. The fifth metatarsal sensor 16c and the heel sensor 16d also have a common vent 72 located at the fifth metatarsal portion of the insert 437, rather than at the heel as in the embodiments of FIGS. 3-22B, 28 and 30. Share. In this configuration, the heel sensor 16d includes a flow path 71 extending from the hole 43 of the heel sensor 16d to the hole 43 of the fifth metatarsal sensor 16c and another flow path 71 extending from the fifth metatarsal sensor 16c to the vent 72. Have. As shown in FIGS. 36-44, the location of the vent 72 is different from the embodiments described above, and thus the insert 437 is used in the sole structure 130 that includes features specifically adapted for the vent 72 at these locations. obtain. FIGS. 36-38 illustrate a foam member 138 that includes a sole structure 130 and a cavity 76 positioned for cooperation with the vent 72 of the insert 437. These cavities 76 function similarly to the cavities 76 of the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 3-5 and described herein. For example, the foam member 138 may include a fifth metatarsal of the sole structure 130 extending forward beyond the peripheral edge of the insert 437 to provide for venting of air from the vent 72 of the fifth metatarsal of the insert 437. It has a cavity 76 in the bone. Foam member 138 also includes a first metatarsal of sole structure 130 that extends posteriorly beyond the peripheral edge of insert 437 to effect a bleed of air from vent 72 of the first metatarsal portion of insert 437. It also has a cavity 76 in the part. The inserts 37 ', 537 of FIGS. 22C-D and 45-47 can utilize foam members 138 with similarly positioned cavities 76 in various embodiments. It is understood that cavities 76 of different locations and configurations may be utilized in other embodiments. In a further embodiment, a single sole structure 130 may include a plurality of cavities 76 arranged for use with several different types of inserts 37, 37 'having different vent 72 locations. In this embodiment, at least a portion of the cavity 76 may be unused, depending on the configuration of the insert 37 and below. In further embodiments, any of the features, characteristics, etc. of the embodiments of the airflow system 70 described herein, as well as other embodiments of the airflow system 70, as well as other embodiments of the sensor system 12, insert 37, and / or footwear 100. It may be combined with the form.

  In the embodiment of FIGS. 3-22B, as described above, the spacer layer 67 generally comprises first and second layers, except for areas where electrical contact is required, such as between the path 50 and the contacts 40, 42 of the sensor 16. The 66, 68 conductive members / components are insulated from each other. Spacer layer 67 has holes 38, 43 to define the area of desired electrical contact between layers 66, 68. The components of the airflow system 70, particularly the flow path 71, can provide a path for shorting or other unwanted electrical contact between the first and second layers 66, 68 by one or more conductive members. In one embodiment, sensor system 12 includes one or more patches of dielectric material 80 to resist or prevent unwanted short circuits by one or more conductive members between open areas of spacer layer 67, such as flow path 71. May be included. This dielectric material 80 may be in the form of an acrylic or other UV curable ink, or another insulating material suitable for the application. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 16-17, insert 37 includes a number of dielectric materials 80 extending across flow path 71 to insulate power distribution leads 18A disposed about sensor contacts 40, 42 from one another. With that patch. As shown in FIGS. 16-17, a dielectric material 80 is connected to the upper side of the second layer 68 and covers the distribution lead 18A, but in another embodiment, the dielectric material 80 is connected to the first layers 66, 68. Or both layers may have dielectric material 80. The spacer layer 67 may have a dielectric “bridge” above the flow channel 71 in a further embodiment. Further, the dielectric material completely covers a part of the power distribution lead 18A and is wider than the width of the flow path 71. The dielectric material compensates for movement or displacement of the spacer layer 67 or differences in manufacturing tolerances. In this embodiment, the insert 37 has a patch of the dielectric material 80 arranged at each intersection with one power distribution lead 18A of the flow path 71. These patches are one patch 80 on the rear side of the first metatarsal sensor 16a, two patches 80 on the front and rear ends of the first metatarsal sensor 16b, and one patch on the rear side of the fifth metatarsal sensor 16c. And one patch 80 on the front side of the heel sensor 16d. In another embodiment, the insert 37 has a patch of dielectric material disposed at another location on the insert 37 to insulate the distribution leads 18A and other portions of the conductive member from shorts between the layers 66,68. You may. It is understood that a spacer layer 67 having a different configuration with otherwise shaped and / or arranged holes, openings, openings, etc., may result in the use of the dielectric material 80 at other locations for insulation purposes. As described herein above, the dielectric material 80 can be used in other locations as a reinforcing or reinforcing material.

  In the embodiment of FIGS. 3-22B, port 14, sensor 16 and lead 18 form circuit 10 with insert 37. The port 14 has a plurality of terminals 11, each of which is individually assigned to one of the four sensors 16. One terminal 11 is for applying a voltage to the circuit 10, and one terminal 1 is for measuring a voltage. In this embodiment, the sensor system 12 also connects a pair of resistors 53, 54, each disposed in one of the layers 66, 68, and the circuit of the first layer 66 with the circuit of the second layer 68. Path 50 is included. Resistors 53 and 54 provide a reference point for module 22 to measure the resistance of each sensor 16 and enable module 22 to convert a variable current from the active sensor 16 to a measurable voltage. I do. Further, the resistors 53, 54 are arranged in parallel within the circuit 10, which may be used to change the conductivity of the ink used to print the leads 18 and / or the sensor contacts 40, 42, for example. And / or variations in the manufacturing process used to create the resistors 53,54. In one embodiment, the equivalent resistance of the two resistors 53, 54 is 1500 ± 500 kΩ. In another embodiment, a single resistor 53, 54 or two resistors 53, 54 in series could be used. In further embodiments, the resistors 53, 54 may be located elsewhere in the insert 37 or may be located inside the circuitry of the module 22. A more technical depiction of the circuit 10 of this embodiment is described below and illustrated in FIG.

FIG. 20 illustrates a circuit 10 that may be used to detect and measure pressure according to embodiments of the present invention. The circuit 10 includes six terminals 104a to 104f, a power supply terminal 104a for applying a voltage to the circuit 10, a measurement terminal 104b for measuring a voltage as described later, and one for each of the sensors 16a to 16d. And four sensor terminals 104c-104f, each representing ground in this embodiment. Terminals 104a to 104f represent the terminal 11 of the port 14. In the illustrated embodiment, fixed resistors 102a and 102b representing resistors 53 and 54 are connected in parallel. Fixed resistors 102a and 102b may be physically located on separate layers. The equivalent resistance between the terminals 104a and 104b is determined by the following well-known equation.
Req = R102a · R102b / (R102a + R102b) (Formula 1)
In the equation: R102a = resistance of fixed resistor 102a R102b = resistance of fixed resistor 102b Req = equivalent resistance

  Electrically connecting the fixed resistors 102a and 102b in parallel compensates for variations in the manufacturing process used to create the fixed resistors 102a and 102b. For example, if the fixed resistor 102a has a resistance that deviates from the desired resistance, the deviation of the equivalent resistance determined by Equation 1 is minimized by the average effect of the fixed resistor 102b. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that two fixed resistors are shown for illustration only. Additional fixed resistors may be connected in parallel, or each fixed resistor may be formed on a different layer.

  In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 20, fixed resistors 102a and 102b are connected to sensors 16a-16d. Sensors 16a-16d may be embodied by variable resistors that change resistance in response to changes in pressure, as described above. Each of the sensors 16a-16d may be embodied by a plurality of variable resistors. In one embodiment, each of the sensors 16a-16d is embodied by two variable resistors arranged in physically different layers and electrically connected in parallel. For example, as described above with respect to one embodiment, each sensor 16a-16d may include two contacts 40, 42 that engage with each other to a greater extent as the applied pressure increases, with increasing engagement. The resistance of the sensors 16a-16d may decrease. As mentioned above, connecting the resistors in parallel produces an equivalent resistance that minimizes deviations that occur during the manufacturing process. In another embodiment, the contacts 40, 42 may be arranged in series. Sensors 16a-16d may be connected to ground via switches 108a-108d. Switches 108a-108d may be closed one by one to connect the sensors. In some embodiments, switches 108a-108d are embodied by transistors or integrated circuits.

  In operation, a voltage level, such as 3 volts, is applied to terminal 104a. Switches 108a-108d are closed one by one to connect one of sensors 16a-16d to ground. When connected to ground, each of the sensors 16a-16d forms a voltage divider with the combination of fixed resistors 102a and 102b. For example, when switch 108a is closed, the voltage between terminal 104a and ground is divided by the combination of fixed resistors 102a and 102b and sensor 16a. As the resistance of sensor 16a changes, the voltage measured at terminal 104b changes. As a result, the pressure applied to sensor 16a can be measured as a voltage level at terminal 104b. The resistance of sensor 16a is measured utilizing a voltage applied to sensor 16a in series with a combination of known values of combinational fixed resistors 104a and 104b. Similarly, selectively closing switches 108b-108d produces a voltage level at terminal 104b associated with the pressure applied at sensors 16b-16d. It is understood that the connections between sensors 16a-d and terminals 104c-f may be different in other embodiments. For example, sensors 16a-d are connected to different pins of interface 20 at left shoe insert 37 as compared to right shoe insert 37, as shown in FIG. In another embodiment, ground is located at terminal 104a and voltage is applied at terminals 104c-f, and voltage levels may be applied in the opposite manner. In further embodiments, alternative circuitry may be used to achieve similar results and functionality.

  Although the two resistors 53, 54 have similar or identical structures in the illustrated embodiment, it is understood that the resistors may have different structures in other embodiments. Each resistor 53, 54 has two parts 55, 56 spaced apart from each other and a bridge 57 located between and connecting the parts 55, 56. 15 and 17 illustrate more detailed views of the resistors 53, 54, one resistor 53 is shown from the top and the other resistor 54 is shown from the bottom. Portions 55, 56 may be connected to different leads 18 so that the electronic signal or current entering resistors 53, 54 by one lead 18 travels between portions 55, 56 over bridge 57 before the other. Get out of lead 18 at The portions 55, 56 may be formed as an inner portion 55 and an outer portion 56 that substantially surrounds the inner portion 55 to provide a greater length for communication between the portions 55, 56 within a smaller area. In this embodiment, the bridge 57 also substantially surrounds the inner portion 55 and is substantially surrounded by the outer portion 56. As seen in and seen in FIGS. 15-17, bridge 57 partially overlaps both inner portion 55 and outer portion 56 to allow transmission by bridge 57. In the embodiment of FIGS. 15 and 17, the inner portion 55 is formed in a circular or substantially circular shape. The outer portion 56 in this embodiment is at least partially formed by a semi-annular ring shape that at least partially surrounds the inner portion 55 and is spaced from the inner portion about an inner edge of the ring. . The bridge 57 in this embodiment is also at least partially formed by a semi-annular ring shape at the inner and outer semi-circular edges, the bridge 57 at least partially surrounding the inner portion 55, and between the portions 55, 56. At least partially fills the space. As illustrated in FIG. 17, the inner edge of the bridge 57 overlaps the inner portion 55 and the outer edge of the bridge 57 overlaps the outer portion 56. Further, in this embodiment, a gap 58 is defined by the outer portion 56 and the bridge 57 to allow the lead 18 to connect with the inner portion 55 and exit the inner portion 55 without contacting the outer portion 56 or bridge 57. enable. In other words, the semi-annular ring-shaped outer portion 56 and the bridge 57 have ends defining a gap 58 therebetween. It is understood that the relative shapes, sizes and arrangements of the portions 55, 56 and the bridge 57 may vary in other embodiments.

  In one embodiment, the bridge 57 may be formed of a more resistive material than the portions 55, 56, which may provide the majority of the resistance of each resistor 53, 54. Portions 55, 56 may be at least partially formed of a highly conductive material, such as a silver material. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 3-22B, the inner and outer portions 55, 56 are formed of the same material as the leads 18, such as a printing silver-based or other metal-based ink. In this embodiment, bridge 57 is formed of the same material as sensor contacts 40, 42, such as carbon black or another conductive carbon material. It is understood that the inner and outer portions 55, 56 and / or the bridge 57 can be formed of different materials in other embodiments.

  Path 50 generally enables continuous and / or uninterrupted telecommunications to pass electronic signals between first and second layers 66,68. In the embodiment of FIGS. 3-22B, port 14 is directly connected to second layer 68, and path 50 may serve as a vertical path between port 14 and sensor contact 40 at first layer 66, 68. . In this embodiment, path 50 includes conductive portions 51 in first layer 66 and second layer 68, such that conductive portion 51 provides continuous electrical communication between first and second layers 66,68. Are continuously engaged with one another (see, for example, FIG. 21). The spacer layer 67 in this embodiment includes holes 38 aligned with the passages 50 to allow continuous engagement between the conductive portions 51 by the spacer layer 67. Further, in the embodiment of FIGS. 3-22B, each of the conductive portions 51 is divided into two portions 52 separated by an elongated gap 59 (FIG. 15). These conductive portions 52 have a substantially semicircular shape in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3 to 22B, and the conductive portion 51 has a generally circular shape. The portion 52 of the first layer 66 is sized, shaped, and arranged approximately the same as the portion 52 for the second layer 68 so that portions of each layer 66, 68 correspond to corresponding portions of the other layer 66, 68. Engage with portion 52. The gap 59 between the two layers 66, 68 is also substantially aligned in this embodiment. In other words, the conductive portion 51 has the left portion 52 of the conductive portion 51 engaged with each other, the right portion 52 of the conductive portion 51 engages with each other, and The arrangement is such that there is no direct engagement between them. This configuration can alternatively be described as creating two separate side-by-side paths between the first and second layers 66, 68, with each portion 52 being a separate conductive portion forming each path. May be considered. The conductive portion 51 of the channel 50 is formed of a conductive material, and in one embodiment, the conductive portion 51 may be formed of the same material as the lead 18, such as a silver-based ink or other metallic ink. In other embodiments, channel 50 and its components described herein may take different sizes, shapes, forms or positions, and may be formed of different materials.

  Channel 50 may be at least partially surrounded or defined by reinforcement structure 60 in one embodiment to provide structural support and / or effect. As illustrated in FIGS. 7 to 17 and 21, the conductive portion 51 is surrounded by a substantially annular reinforcing member 60. The stiffener 60 in this embodiment is not completely annular because the gap 59 extends through the stiffener 60. The stiffener 60 may also include, in another embodiment, additional clearance for the leads 18 to pass through and connect to the conductive portion 51. The stiffener 60 in this embodiment serves to assist the engagement between the conductive portions 51 to achieve maximum engagement between the conductive portions 51. FIG. 21 illustrates this configuration in more detail. FIG. 21 is at least partially schematic in nature, and it is understood that the relative dimensions of the components illustrated in FIG. 21 may be exaggerated for effect and understanding. Further, FIG. 21 does not show the lower layer 69 for clarity in illustrating the other layers 66, 67, 68. In general, the spacer layer 67 provides isolation between the conductive portions 51, so that the layers 66, 68 must bow toward each other in the path 50 for the conductive portions 51 to engage with each other.

  In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 21, the holes 38 in the spacer layer 67 allow the conductive portions 51 to bow toward each other and engage with each other. The first and second layers 66, 68 may be evacuated or otherwise combined, for example, by passing a roller over an assemblage insert 37 at the location of path 50 to remove excess air. To achieve this contact. The warping of the layers or layers 66, 68 towards each other results in an annular transition region 61 in one or both of the layers 66, 68 around the periphery of the hole 38 in which the layers 66, 68 warp toward each other. The transition region 61 in this embodiment is defined by the outer annular break line 61a and the inner annular break line 61b, and includes the transition region 61 between the break lines 61a and 61b, and the conductive portion 51 inside the inner break line 61b. In this configuration, the first and second layers 66, 68 are generally horizontal outside the outer break line 61a and inside the inner break line 61a, and the first and second layers 66, 68 The engagement between the conductive portions 51 is generated by inclining toward each other. The hole 38 is larger in size than the stiffener 60 so that the stiffener 60 is located adjacent the edge of the hole 38. In this configuration, due to the increased stiffness of the stiffener 60, the layers 66, 68 tend to have a sharp transition from horizontal to at least partially vertical at the location of the stiffener 60, such that the stiffener 60 creates a transition region 61. Tends to define.

  As seen in FIG. 21, the placement of the transition region 61 of the stiffener 60 allows for maximum contact between the conductive portions 51 within the area 62 defined by the transition region 61. In one embodiment, the majority of conductive portions 51 are in continuous engagement with one another through holes 38 in area 62 defined by transition region 61. In another embodiment, the conductive portions 51 are continuously engaged with each other through the holes 38 over all or substantially the entire area 62 defined by the transition region 61. This continuous contact helps to ensure that path 50 and circuit 10 function properly without interruption. Adhesive may be utilized in or around the passage 50 to enhance the engagement between the layers 66, 68 in the passage 50. The reinforcing member 60 can be formed of any material having appropriate rigidity, and in one embodiment, can be formed of a material having a higher rigidity than the material of the conductive portion 51. One example of such a material is carbon black or other carbon-based material, but in other embodiments, other materials can be used, including other types of printable substances.

  Reinforcement 60 may also help achieve continuous engagement between conductive portions 51 in different ways. In the embodiment of FIGS. 3-22B, the stiffener 60 is formed of a carbon-based ink that absorbs more wavelengths of light than the metal-based ink of the conductive portion 51, which tends to be reflective. . The ink in layers 66 and 68 is cured using infrared radiation, and in this embodiment, stiffener 60 may absorb a greater amount of infrared radiation than conductive portion 51. This absorption heats the area of the layers 66, 68 just below the stiffener 60 so that the stiffener 60 is hotter on the printed surface layers 66, 68 and cooler on the opposite surface. There is a tendency to create a temperature gradient across the thickness of the layers 66,68. In turn, this temperature gradient causes a differential expansion / contraction at the opposing surfaces of the layers 66, 68 around the stiffener 60, thereby causing the hotter surface of the stiffener 60 to move to the opposite surface of the stiffener 60. , And the area of each layer 66, 68 inside the reinforcement 60 (ie, of the conductive portion 51) may be projected or recessed slightly upward. This protrusion of the layers 66, 68 extends the conductive portions 51 of the layers 66, 68 closer to each other, which results in increased engagement between the conductive portions 51 and the continuous or continuous connection of the conductive portions 51 within the stiffener 60. It may assist in achieving a substantially continuous engagement. The protrusion of the layers 66, 68 may be additionally or alternatively enhanced by mechanical stamping or other pre-straining operations that produce a protrusion or depression effect. Joining techniques such as ultrasonic spot welding or other spot welding can be used additionally or alternatively to increase the engagement between the conductive portions 51. In one embodiment, ultrasonic spot welding may be used in a waffle pattern between conductive portions 51 to engage and hold conductive portions 51 together.

  The gap 59 in the path 50 may perform multiple functions. One function that can be performed by the gap 59 is to provide electrical isolation between portions 52 of the path 50 to create a separate connection between the layers 66, 68. Another function that can be performed by the gap 59 is to increase the durability of the path 50 during bending of the insert 37. In general, the user's foot extends from a fifth metatarsal (also referred to as a fifth metatarsal head or a fifth metatarsal joint) to a first metatarsal (the first metatarsal head or the first metatarsal). (Also referred to as the phalanges). In the embodiment of FIGS. 3-22B, channel 50 is positioned around the second and / or third metatarsal portion of insert 37 so that the roll of the user's foot passes directly over channel 50. Repetitive rolling of this nature can cause bending of the conductive portion 51, which in turn can cause abrasion, crushing, separation, and the like. The gap 59, when properly aligned, can serve as a bending point that minimizes bending of the conductive portion 51. In the embodiment of FIGS. 3-22B, the gap 59 is perpendicular to the direction of the typical roll of the user's foot, in other words, between the fifth metatarsal portion and the first metatarsal portion of the insert 37. It is generally aligned perpendicular to the extending straight line. In one embodiment, a virtual line L (see FIG. 10) can be drawn between the sensor 16b of the first metatarsal and the sensor 16c of the fifth metatarsal. The gap 59 may be aligned perpendicular to the straight line L or within a range of ± 45 ° from the perpendicular of the straight line L. The straight line L illustrated in FIG. 10 is drawn between the front edge (for example, the front center) of the first metatarsal sensor 16b and the rear edge (for example, the back center) of the fifth metatarsal sensor 16c. In other embodiments, the gap 59 (if present) may be arranged differently, especially if the path 50 is in a different area of the insert 37.

  FIGS. 52-56 illustrate another embodiment of a sensor system 612 that includes an insert member 37, which are similar to the sensor system 12 and the insert 37 of FIGS. In the embodiment of FIGS. 52-56, path 50 does not include stiffener 60 as in the embodiment of FIGS. 3-22B. Further, the conductive portion 51 of the path 50 in this embodiment is enlarged to cover the area covered by the stiffener 60 in the embodiment of FIGS. In other words, in this embodiment, the conductive portion 51 extends almost to the edge of the hole 38 aligned with the path 50, and a portion of the conductive portion 51 is located inside the transition region 61 as schematically illustrated in FIG. Be placed. The increased size of the conductive portions 51 in the embodiments of FIGS. 52-56 provides a greater surface area for potential engagement between the conductive portions 51, thereby providing a more stable and uninterrupted function of the path 50. Can provide. In other respects, path 50 shares structural and functional characteristics with the embodiment of path 50 illustrated in FIGS. 3-22B and described elsewhere herein. Such similar structures and functions will not be described again here for the sake of brevity. In one embodiment, mechanical stamping or other pre-straining operations can be used to create a projecting or indenting effect on the layers 66, 68 to enhance engagement between the conductive portions 51, as described above. Joining techniques such as ultrasonic spot welding or other spot welding can be additionally or alternatively used to increase engagement between the conductive portions 51, also as described above.

  In other embodiments, the path 50 may be located at another location or have another configuration. For example, in one embodiment, the path 50 utilizes, for example, a two-pin connection (not shown) of the first layer 66, and connects the two-pin connection to the fifth and sixth terminals 11 of the interface 20 by, for example, a crimping connection. Can be formed at or near terminal 11. Other structures for forming the channel 50 can be utilized in further embodiments.

  FIGS. 48-51 illustrate a sensor system configured differently from the sensor systems 12, 412, 512, 612 described herein and having a different mode of operation as compared to the sensor systems 12, 412, 512, 612 described herein. 712 illustrates another embodiment of the invention. The sensor system 712 of FIGS. 48-51 includes many structural and functional features in common with the sensor system 12 described above and illustrated in FIGS. 3-22B. For example, the external shape of the insert 37, the general position of the sensor 16 and the configuration of the airflow system 70 in the embodiments of FIGS. 48-51 are the same as the shape of the insert 37, the general position of the sensor 16 and the airflow system 70 in FIGS. Is similar or identical to the configuration of These and other such common features are not described again here for brevity.

  In the embodiment of FIGS. 48-51, the sensor system 712 includes two contacts or electrodes 740, 742 located on the second layer 68 and a third contact 744 located on the first layer 66. It has a sensor 16. In this embodiment, all of the contacts 40, 742, 744 are formed of carbon-based ink as described above and have one or more power distribution leads 18A at the edges of each of the contacts 740, 742, 744. The contacts 740, 742 of the second layer 68 may have a different conductivity than the contacts 744 of the first layer 66, and are formed of a doped carbon-based ink to achieve higher conductivity. obtain. The contacts 740, 742 of the second layer 68 are electrically isolated from each other and are each connected to the port 14 by a lead 18. A single power or ground lead 18B connects to all first contacts 740 of sensor 16 and the second contact 742 of each individual sensor 16 is connected to port 14 by individual lead 18.

  The structure of the sensor 16 in the sensor system 712 of FIGS. 48-51 is otherwise similar to the sensor 16 in the embodiment of FIGS. In this embodiment, the first and second contacts 740, 742 of the combination are the same as those of the embodiment of FIGS. The third contact 744 is configured similarly to the contact 40 of the first layer 66 in the embodiment of FIGS. 3-22B. In other embodiments, sensor 16 and / or contacts 740, 742, 744 may have different configurations. For example, in one embodiment, the contacts 744 of the first layer 66 may be a single patch of carbon-based ink.

  In the embodiment of the sensor system 712 of FIGS. 48-51, the first and second contacts 740, 742 are electrically isolated from each other and the third contact 744 is in face-to-face relationship with the first and second contacts 740, 742. , Whereby the third contact 744 engages the first and second contacts 740, 742 when a vertical pressure is applied to the sensor 16. In this configuration, the signal from port 14 is transmitted between the two electrodes 740, 742 of each sensor 16 of the second layer 68 by passing through the electrode 744 of that sensor 16 of the first layer 66. Accordingly, the resistivity of sensor 16 is determined by the engagement between contacts 740, 742 of second layer 68 and electrode 744 of first layer 66, and the pressure applied to sensor 16 and the resistivity of sensor 16 Is similar to that of the sensor 16 of the embodiment of FIGS. 3-22B described herein and illustrated in FIG. The sensitivity range, starting pressure, and other functional characteristics of the sensor 16 of FIGS. 48-51 are also similar to those of the sensor 16 of the sensor system 12 of FIGS.

  The connection of port 14 of sensor system 712 of FIGS. 49-51 is similar to that of the embodiment of FIGS. 3-22B and is schematically illustrated in FIG. It includes a power supply terminal 104a, a measurement terminal 104b, and four sensor terminals 104c to 104f. The resistivity / resistance measurement can be completed in the same or similar manner as described above. The circuit in the embodiment of FIGS. 48-51 is similar to that shown in FIG. 20, except that this embodiment uses two fixed resistors 53, 54 in parallel as in the embodiment of FIGS. Rather, only a single fixed resistor 53 is included. Further, while each sensor 16 in the embodiment of FIGS. 3-22B may be considered as five parallel resistors, each sensor 16 of the sensor system 712 of FIGS. It can be considered as two parallel resistors (contact 742) arranged in series with (contact 740). In another embodiment, the sensor system 712 of FIGS. 48-51 may be wired to have two fixed resistors in parallel or any of the other resistor configurations described herein. It is understood that any path 50 between layers 66, 68 is not required in this embodiment because the leads 18 connected to ports 14 are only in second layer 68. Accordingly, the spacer layer 67 in the sensor system 712 of FIGS. 48-51 may not include the holes 38 as in the spacer layer 67 of FIGS.

  The insert 37 can be made by depositing various components on a polymer (eg, PET) film. In one embodiment, the insert 37 is printed by a trace pattern of the leads 18 (including the distribution leads 18A, the conductive portion 51 of the path 50, the inner and outer portions 55, 56 of the resistors 53, 54, etc.), for example. It is formed by first depositing a conductive metal material on each layer 66,68. Thereafter, additional carbon material may be deposited on each layer 66, 68, for example by printing, to form the contacts 40, 42, the stiffener 60 of the path 50, the bridge 57 of the resistors 53, 54, and the like. Subsequently, any additional components, such as any dielectric portions, may be deposited. Layers 66, 68 may be printed on a PET sheet and then cut in one embodiment to form an outer perimeter shape after printing.

  Port 14 is configured for communication of data collected by sensor 16 to an external source in one or more known manners. In one embodiment, port 14 is a universal communication port configured for data communication in a universally readable format. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 3-22B, port 14 includes an interface 20 for connection with electronic module 22 illustrated in connection with port 14 in FIG. Further, in this embodiment, the port 14 is associated with a housing 24 for insertion of the electronic module 22, which is located in the central arch or midfoot recess 135 of the midsole 131. As illustrated in FIGS. 7-16, the sensor leads 18 collect together at each terminal 11 to form an integrated interface 20 for connection to the port 14. In one embodiment, the integrated interface may include a separate connection of the sensor lead 18 to the port interface 20, for example, by a plurality of electrical contacts. In another embodiment, the sensor leads 18 can be integrated to form an external interface, for example, a plug-in interface or another configuration. In a further embodiment, the sensor leads 18 may form a non-integrated interface, each lead 18 having its own separate terminal 11. As also described below, the module 22 may have a port interface 20 and / or an interface 23 for connection to the sensor leads 18.

  In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 3-22B, the interface 20 takes the form of an electrical contact or terminal 11. In one embodiment, the terminal 11 is formed in a tongue or extension 21 that extends from one of the layers 66, 68 into a hole 27 provided for the housing 24. The extension integrates the ends of leads 18 into a single area to form interface 20. In the embodiment of FIGS. 3-22B, the extension 21 extends from the second layer 68 into the hole 27 and is bent down inside the housing 24 to place the terminal 11 inside the housing 24 and to connect the interface 20 to the housing 24. Make it internally accessible. The second layer 68 further has slits 83 on both sides of the extension 21 in this embodiment to increase the length of the extension 21 and to cause the extension 21 to bend downward and extend downward into the housing 24. To be present. The rounded ends of the slits 83 can resist the formation and / or propagation of cracks and tears in the material of the second layer 68 around the extension 21. Extension 21 may reach housing 24 through a slot or other space below lip 28 under flange 28 of housing 24. If the flange 28 is a separate part, for example, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. Can be done. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 3-22B, the extensions 21 are formed of the same polymer film material as the second layer 68 and are integral with the second layer 68 (eg, formed as a single piece). ). In other embodiments, the extension 21 may extend from the first layer 66, may include a portion connected to both layers 66, 68, and / or may be connected to one or both layers. It may be formed of separate parts.

  The extension 21 illustrated in FIGS. 3-22B and 32 has a reinforcement 81 connected to the extension to strengthen a portion of the extension 21. The reinforcement 81 can be selected from many different materials that provide strength, stiffness, abrasion resistance, and other enhancements. For example, the reinforcement 81 can be formed of the same material as the dielectric material 80 used to insulate the layers 66, 68 in the flow path 71, such as, for example, an acrylic ink or other UV curable ink. In the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 3-22B and 32, the reinforcement 81 is in the form of an elongated strip that extends across the entire width of the extension 21 along the length of the extension 21. The extensions 21 in this embodiment extend from the second layer 68 to the holes 27, and the reinforcement 81 is located above the extensions 21 and extends over them between the ends of the leads 18. Reinforcement 81 may have a stiffness greater than the stiffness of the material of lead 18 in one embodiment, and may have a greater stiffness than the film material forming layers 66, 68 in another embodiment. Good.

  In the configuration illustrated in FIGS. 3-22B and 32, the extension 21 bends downwardly into the recess 135 and the housing 24 to place the terminal 11 inside the housing 24 and to interface 20 within the housing 24, as described above. To form As shown in FIG. 32, the extension 21 has a bend 84, where the extension 21 bends down at the periphery of the housing 24 and extends downward along the side wall 25 of the housing 24. Bend 84 is generally straight and extends across extension 21. In the illustrated embodiment, reinforcement 81 is disposed on extension 21 such that a strip of reinforcement 81 extends across extension 21 at flexure 84 and is generally parallel to flexure 84. . In one embodiment, the reinforcement 81 is formed as an elongated rectangular strip and has sufficient width to allow the reinforcement 81 to cover the entire bend 84. In this position, the reinforcement 81 performs several functions. One such function is to protect the leads 18 and / or the film of the extension 21 from damage due to bending of the extension 21. Another such function is to protect the lead 18 and / or the film of the extension 21 from wear and abrasion at the bend 84, for example, by rubbing against the housing 24 in its place. To add rigidity and / or strength to Other benefits of reinforcement 81 will be apparent to those skilled in the art. In other embodiments, the reinforcement 81 may be otherwise arranged, shaped or configured, or the reinforcement 81 may be used to provide strength, stiffness, wear resistance, or the like, to other components of the sensor assembly 12. It is understood that different locations can additionally or alternatively be used. In a further embodiment, the reinforcement 81 may not be used, or a large portion of the extension 21 may be covered by the reinforcement 81.

  Housing 24 may include connection structures such as connector pins or springs (not shown) for establishing a connection between interface 20 and module 22. In one embodiment, port 14 includes an electrical connector 82 that forms interface 20, and port 14 can include contacts that are individually attached to terminals 11 as described above and shown in FIG. The connector 82 may be connected to the extension 21 and the terminal 11 by crimping connection. The interface 20 in this embodiment includes seven terminals. Each of the four terminals 11 is individually connected to one of the sensors 16, and one terminal functions as a measurement terminal (104 b in FIG. 20), and one terminal 11 is a power supply terminal ( It works as 104a) in FIG. As described above, the power supply terminal may be alternatively configured as a ground terminal in another embodiment, and the sensor terminals (104c-f in FIG. 20) are configured as power supply terminals. As illustrated in FIG. 12, the arrangement of the sensors 16, leads 18 and other components of the sensor system 12 may differ between the left and right foot inserts 37, with the sensor 16 having a left Can be connected to different terminals 11 by the insert 37 of FIG. In this embodiment, the first four terminals 11 are also reserved for connection to the sensor 16 (although potentially in a different order), and the fifth, sixth and seventh terminals 11 Both inserts 37 have the same function. This configuration may be different in other embodiments. In another embodiment, module 22 may be specifically configured for use with left or right shoe 100 and insert 37. The seventh terminal can be used for powering accessories such as a unique identification chip. In one embodiment, the sixth and seventh terminals 11 are extended to a tail 21 </ b> A extending from an end of the extension 21. The accessory may be connected between the two terminals 11 at the tail 21A to power the accessory. Accessories may include a small printed circuit board (PCB) with memory chips attached to tail 21A by anisotropic contact formation. In one embodiment, the accessory chip includes information that uniquely identifies the article of footwear 100, such as a serial number, whether the article of footwear 100 is a left or right shoe, a male or female shoe, and a specific type of shoe (eg, running, May include substantive information, such as other forms of information (tennis, basketball, etc.). This information is read by module 22 and may be used subsequently in the analysis, presentation and / or organization of the data from the sensors. The accessory may be sealed to housing 24, for example, by epoxy or other material.

  Ports 14 are configured for connection to a variety of different electronic modules 22, which may be as simple as a memory component (eg, a flash drive) or include more complex features. It is understood that module 22 may be a complex component, such as a personal computer, mobile device, server, and the like. Port 14 is configured to transmit data collected by sensor 16 to module 22 for storage, transmission, and / or processing. In some embodiments, ports 14, sensors 16, and / or other components of sensor system 12 may be configured to process data. Port 14, sensor 16, and / or other components of sensor system 12 may be additionally or alternatively configured to transmit data directly to external device 110 or modules 22 and / or external device 110. It is understood that ports 14, sensors 16, and / or other components of sensor system 12 may include appropriate hardware, software, etc. for these purposes. Examples of housings and electronic modules in articles of footwear are disclosed in U.S. Patent Application No. 11 / 416,458, published as U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2007/0260421, which is incorporated herein by reference. Is exemplified. Although port 14 is illustrated with electronic terminals 11 forming interface 20 for connection to module 22, in other embodiments, port 14 includes one or more additional or alternative communication interfaces. May be. For example, port 14 may include or consist of a USB port, a Firewire® port, a 16-pin port, or other form of physical contact based connection, or for example, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth Wireless or interface such as near field communication, RFID, Bluetooth® low energy, Zigbee® or other wireless communication technology, or interface for infrared or other optical communication technology. It may include a contactless communication interface. In another embodiment, the sensor system 12 may include a plurality of ports 14 configured for communication with one or more modules 22 or external devices 110. This configuration may alternatively be considered a single distributed port 14. For example, each of the sensors 16 may have a separate port 14 for communication with one or more electronic modules 22, as in the embodiment of the sensor system 812 illustrated in FIG. Separate port 14 may be configured for wireless communication using wireless or contactless communication as described above. In one embodiment, each port 14 may include an RFID chip with an antenna, and in another embodiment, port (s) 14 may transfer information from the user's feet to other locations on the user's body. The user's body may be used as a transmission system to transmit to the located module 22. It is understood that the port 14 in this embodiment is connected to the sensor 16 by a lead 18, and the dotted lead 18 in FIG. 61 represents the underlying lead 18 of the insert 37. The ports 14 may be located between layers of the insert 37, within holes in the insert 37, or above or below the insert 37, in various embodiments. It is understood that a combination of two or more sensors connected to a single port 14 can use multiple or distributed port (s) 14. In further embodiments, sensor system 12 may include one or more ports 14 having different configurations, which may include a combination of two or more configurations described herein.

  The module 22 may include one or more communication interfaces that connect to an external device 110 and transmit data for processing, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 23 below. Such an interface may include any of the contact or contactless interfaces described above. In one embodiment, module 22 includes at least a retractable USB connection for connecting to a computer and / or charging the battery of module 22. In another example, module 22 may be configured for contact or contactless connection with a mobile device, such as a watch, a mobile phone, a portable music player, and the like. Module 22 may be configured for wireless communication with external device 110, such that device 22 can be located on footwear 100. However, in another embodiment, module 22 may be configured to be detached from footwear 100 and connected directly to external device 110 for data transfer, for example, by the retractable USB connection described above. In a wireless embodiment, module 22 may be connected to an antenna for wireless communication. The antenna may be shaped, dimensioned and arranged for use at a transmission frequency appropriate for the selected wireless communication method. Further, the antenna can be located internally within the module 22 or externally to the module. In one embodiment, the sensor system 12 itself (such as the leads 18 and the conductive portion of the sensor 16) could be used to form an antenna. Module 22 can also be installed, positioned and / or configured to improve antenna reception, and in one embodiment, a portion of the user's body can be used as an antenna. In one embodiment, the module 22 is permanently mounted inside the footwear 100 or, alternatively, may be removable at the option of the user and may be retained in the footwear 100 as needed. Further, as described further below, module 22 may be removed and replaced with another module 22 that is programmed and / or configured to otherwise collect and / or utilize data from sensor 16. . If the module 22 is permanently mounted inside the footwear 100, the sensor system 12 also includes an external port (not shown) that allows data transfer and / or battery charging, such as a USB or Firewire® port. May be. It is understood that module 22 can be configured for both contact and contactless communication.

  In one embodiment, the port 14 is provided in a position and orientation and / or the article of footwear, for example, when the wearer is in a competitive activity, although the port 14 may be located in a variety of locations without departing from the invention. When worn and / or otherwise used, 100 is otherwise configured to avoid or minimize contact with and / or irritation of the wearer's foot. The arrangement of ports 14 in FIGS. 3-4 illustrates such an example. In another embodiment, port 14 is located near the heel or sole of shoe 100. Other features of the footwear structure 100 help reduce or avoid contact between the wearer's foot and the port 14 (or an element connected to the port 14) and increase the overall comfort of the footwear structure 100. obtain. For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 3-5 above, the foot contact member 133 overlies and at least partially covers the port 14, thereby providing a layer of padding between the wearer's foot and the port 14. Additional features may be used to reduce contact therebetween and adjust for any undesired sensations of the port 14 at the wearer's foot. If desired, an opening to port 14 can be provided through the upper surface of foot contact member 133 without departing from the invention. Such construction may include, for example, additional comfort / when housing 24, electronic module 22, and other features of port 14 include structures that adjust the sensation of the user's foot and / or are formed from such materials. It can be used when a sense adjustment element is provided. The footwear structure reduces or avoids contact between the wearer's foot and the housing (or elements contained therein), including various features described above in connection with the accompanying drawings, as well as other known methods and techniques. Any of a variety of features that help improve the overall comfort of the vehicle can be provided without departing from this invention.

  62-76 disclose further views of one embodiment of the port 14 configured to be utilized by the insert member 37. FIG. Similar structures described above are designated by the same or similar reference numerals. This embodiment and its variants are described in detail below. As discussed and disclosed herein, port 14 defines or supports interface 20 for operable connection with module 22. Module 22 is also described in further detail below. Through an operable connection between the port 14 and the module 22, data sensed by the sensor assembly 12 may be obtained, stored, and / or processed for further use and analysis.

  As can be seen from FIGS. 62-64, the port 14 is generally supported in a central portion of the insert assembly 37. Port 14 generally includes a housing 24 that supports interface assembly 156. As will be described in further detail below, the interface assembly 156 is operatively connected to the extension 21 having the lead 11 thereon of the insert member 37. With such a connection, interface 20 is established for further operable connection of module 22 with interface 23.

  Further, as shown in FIGS. 65 to 67, the housing 24 in this embodiment includes a base member 140 and a cover member 142. The base member 140 may correspond to the vessel 29 defining the side wall 25 and the bottom wall 26 as described above. The first end of the base member 140 has a generally rectangular configuration for receiving the extension 21 of the insert member 37. The second end of the base member 140 has a rounded configuration. Base member 140 defines a first portion 144 and a second portion 146. First portion 144 is generally conformal and sized to receive module 22, and second portion 146 is sized to receive and support interface assembly 156. The second portion 146 further has a first transverse slot 148 and a second transverse slot 150 communicating with each other. The first lateral slot 148 may extend and be wider than the second lateral slot 150. Housing 24 further defines a protrusion 151 at a second end for retaining module 22 to housing 24. The finger hook concave portion 29A is generally arranged near the protruding portion 151. The base member 140 further has a pair of receivers 152 for cooperation with the cover member 142.

  As further shown in FIGS. 66-67, the cover member 142 has a central opening 153 sized as needed to receive the module 22. The cover member 142 further has a beam member 154 at a first end, and a second end of the cover member 142 has a rounded configuration. The beam member 154 projects above a part of the first portion 144 when connected to the base member 140 as described later. The lower surface of the cover member 142 has a pair of hanging posts 155 that cooperate with the receiving members 152 of the base member 140 as described later. The outer periphery of cover member 142 defines lip or flange 28. In the exemplary embodiment, cover member 142 may have a depending wall cooperatively defining sidewall 25 of housing 24. In such a configuration, base member 140 may define a ledge on the side wall to receive the depending wall of cover member 142.

  68-71 further illustrate the components of the interface assembly 156. The interface assembly 156 has a carrier 157 that supports the electrical connector 82 as outlined with respect to FIG. The electrical connectors 82 each have an end defining a contact resiliently supported by the carrier 157 that cooperates with a corresponding contact on the module 22. Electrical connector 82 has a bend about carrier 157 and has a proximal end having a plurality of fingers 158 thereon. In one embodiment, four fingers 158 are associated with each connector 82, and fingers 158 may be arranged in a petal arrangement. As described in further detail below, the interface assembly 156 may further include a filler material 159 or a potting compound 159. Also, as shown in FIG. 69, it is understood that the end 82A of the connector is cut off at a predetermined position before the connection with the expansion portion 21 of the insert member 37.

  As shown in FIGS. 72-73, the interface assembly 156 is operatively connected to the extension 21. The expansion part 21 has the lead 11 of the insert member 37 thereon. To that end, the finger 158 is connected to the extension 21 at a position where there is an engagement between the lead 11 and the connector 82. This engagement can be seen and understood from FIG. 72, as well as from FIG. In the exemplary embodiment, fingers 158 protrude through extension 21 and each of a plurality of fingers 158 extend through extension 21 and engage in a circumferential manner. It is further understood that the tail 21A can be further folded to be positioned adjacent the rear side of the extension 21, as illustrated in FIG. As discussed, the tail 21A having the sixth and seventh connectors has a PCB member 90, which may be a unique identification chip connected to function as described above. It is understood that the extension 21 and the carrier 157 are arranged to hang from the upper flat surface of the insert member 37. As further shown in FIG. 74, the carrier 157 is located in the first lateral slot 148 of the base member 140 of the housing 24. Carrier 157 is dimensioned to fit snugly into first lateral slot 148 and be retained. The connector 82 faces a first portion 144 defined by the housing 24. As can be seen from FIGS. 75-76, it is understood that filler material 159 or potting compound 159 can be injected into second lateral slot 150 through opening 150A of base member 140 near second lateral slot 150 (FIG. 65). Is done. The potting compound 159 may be a thermoset plastic in the exemplary embodiment, or could be one or more other materials. The potting compound 159 fills the second lateral slot 150 and extends around that area, the extension 21 being connected to the connector 82 held by the carrier 157, thus providing a protective connection. In one embodiment, potting compound 159 maintains a desired amount of flexibility to enhance the connection between extension 21 and port 14. The potting compound 159 can resist shock and vibration while still resisting moisture ingress and corrosive agents. Further, it will be appreciated that the base member 140 is disposed on the insert member 37 and the receiver 152 is aligned with a corresponding opening 28B through the insert member 37. The cover member 142 is arranged on the upper surface of the insert member 37, and the hanging posts 155 fit into the receiving members 152 (FIGS. 62 to 67). An ultrasonic welding operation is performed to connect the cover member 142 to the base member 140. This connection is similar to the connection of nail 28A as shown in FIG. Other connection techniques for connecting the cover member 142 to the base member 140 are available in other embodiments, including snap-fit connections and other mechanical connections. It is understood that beam members 154 extend above interface 20 and connector 82 is protected within housing 24. This configuration provides a robust connection of port 14 for further operable connection with insert member 37 and with module 22, as described herein.

  77-90 disclose additional figures and features of one embodiment of module 22, which is described in further detail below. As described above, module 22 is received by and operatively connected to port 14 to collect, store, and / or process data received from sensor assembly 12. Module 22 may be for such purposes various components including, but not limited to, printed circuit boards, power supplies, light components, interfaces, and various types of sensors including multi-axis accelerometers, gyroscopes and / or magnetometers. It is understood to accommodate.

  Module 22 generally includes a housing 170 that supports interface 23. Interface 23 has an electrical connector that forms a contact for cooperation of port 14 with interface 20. As will be described in more detail below, the contacts associated with the interface 23 of the module 22 are formed such that they are in a sealed configuration that is protected from moisture ingress. The module 22 further has a dead-front LED light indicator that is visually perceptible only when illuminated. Finally, module 22 utilizes a unique ground plane extender to enhance the operation of module 22.

  As shown in FIGS. 79-83, the housing 170 of the module 22 supports the interface assembly 171. The interface assembly 171 has a plurality of connectors 172 and a module carrier 173. The connectors 172 each have ends forming contacts that collectively define the interface 23 of the module 22. It is understood that connector 172 is insert molded such that material is formed around connector 172 to define module carrier 173. It is also understood that portion 172A of connector 172 (FIG. 79) is snapped in place to place connector 172 in the appropriate length for further operable connection. Housing 170 generally has a module base member 174 having an outer base member 175 and an inner base member 176. Housing 170 further includes a module top member 177 having an outer top member 178 and an inner top member 179. Module base members 175, 176, module top members 178, 179 and interface assembly 171 cooperate to provide a sealed configuration around connector 172. Connector 172 may be considered to have an overmolded configuration. These components also form an internal cavity, and housing 170 supports internal components, including printed circuit board 180 operably connected to connector 172.

  As described above, connector 172 is insert molded and module carrier 173 is formed around connector 172. It is understood that the outer base member 175 is formed, for example, by an injection molding process and defines an open end. In such a process, connector 172 may be sufficiently supported by the mold to withstand the pressures associated with the injection molding process. The interface assembly 171 and the outer base member 175 are arranged in a mold, and the interface assembly 171 is arranged at an open end and supported by the outer base member 175. In a further injection molding process, additional material is injected into the mold to form the inner base member 176. The inner base member 176 is formed around the ends of the module carrier 173 and the connector 172 and further against the surface of the outer base member 175. An internal cavity is defined by the inner base member 176, and the printed circuit board 180 is supported therein as is known. It is understood that connector 172 is operatively connected to printed circuit board 180. It is further understood that other components of module 22 are also supported in the internal cavity. As described in further detail below, connector 172 is configured in a sealed manner from an overmolding process.

  The module top member 177 illustrated in FIGS. 85-86 and 89-90, including the inner top member 179 and the outer top member 178, may also be formed using injection techniques in one embodiment. As shown in FIG. 88, the inner top member 179 has an opening 181 therethrough. Outer top member 178 is generally a planar member. The inner top member 179 is disposed on the base member 174, and the outer top member 178 is disposed on the inner top member 179. Top member 177 is connected to base member 175 to receive the internal components of module 22.

  With this structural arrangement, the connector 172 is sealed to prevent possible moisture ingress. As shown in FIG. 84, the carrier 173 is generally in face-to-face engagement with the connector 172 on the inner surface of the connector 172. In addition, the inner base member 176 is generally disposed around the connector 172 on the outer surface of the connector 172. Inner base member 176 further has an engaging surface 182 that abuts and engages an engaging surface 183 defined by outer base member 175. Further, as shown in FIG. 84, the bent path represented by the virtual line L is defined by such a configuration. Such a bend path L minimizes the possibility of moisture ingress. For example, a user may run through a puddle that exposes port 14 and module 22 to potential moisture during use. In an exemplary embodiment, connector 172 is considered to be sealed to 5 atmospheres (ATM). A bonding material (eg, an adhesive) is available between the module carrier 173 and the inner base member 176 near the bend path L, for example, at one or both points P in FIG.

  It is understood that module 22 is received at port 14. The front end of module 22 is inserted through first opening 153 into first portion 144. Module 22 is sized and required to generally match size with first portion 144 and has an interference fit. In such a configuration, the interface 23 of the module 22 is operatively engaged with the interface 20 of the port 14 and the contacts of each of the interfaces 20, 23 are in face-to-face contact. Thus, the configuration is such that the interface 23 of the module 22 is pressed against the interface 20 of the port 14. The module 22 has a recess 184 on the rear surface that receives the protrusion 151 of the housing 24 to assist in retaining the module 22 in the port 14 by a snap connection. The user can easily remove the module 22 from the port by accessing the module 22 with the aid of the finger recess 29A. In this way, the module 22 can be easily inserted into the port 14, for example when needed for charging or data transfer, or when replacing the module 22 for one application with a module of a different type for a different application, or running out of power. When replacing module 22 with a freshly charged module 22, it can be removed from port 14.

  As shown in FIGS. 85-90, module 22 includes a light assembly 185 for presenting illuminated marks to a user. Light assembly 185 is operatively connected to printed circuit board 180. Light assembly 185 generally includes a light member 186 and an optical fiber 187. Light member 186 is an LED light member in the exemplary embodiment, but other light members can be used. Light member 186 has an arcuate portion 188 and is configured to project light in a first direction indicated by arrow A1, for example, which may be horizontal in the exemplary embodiment. Light member 186 may be considered a side-emitting LED. Optical fiber 187 has a first portion 189 that defines a first passageway 190 configured in a first direction. First portion 189 has a recess that generally matches and receives arcuate portion 188 of light member 186 to capture as much light as possible from light member 186. Thus, the first portion 189 is in face-to-face relationship with the arcuate portion 188 of the light member 186 and partially surrounds the light member 186. As shown, the optical fiber 187 has a geometry that helps diffuse the light to a larger area, and therefore diffuses the light along an arc. The optical fiber 187 further has a second portion 191 defining a second passage 192 configured in a second direction. The second passage 192 extends upward at an angle and is therefore different from the first direction. In one exemplary embodiment, the second portion 191 is inclined at an angle of about 45 ° determined to enhance light reflection. The second passage 192 has a distal end located near the opening 181 of the inner top member 179. Optical fiber 187 may be treated with a dispersant, for example, by adding a drug to the resin before injection molding the optical fiber. Since the light member 186 and the optical fiber 187 are configured in a face-to-face relationship, the components achieve a minimal footprint, which is beneficial due to the limited area defined by the module 22. In operation, light member 186 illuminates as required through printed circuit board 180. Light is projected in the direction indicated by arrow A1. Light is also projected in an arcuate configuration based on the shape of the optical fiber 187. Light is projected into the first passage 190 in these directions. Optical fiber 187 directs the light upward in the direction of arrow A2 to second passage 192. When light is first projected from the side-emitting LED, the light travels in an oblique direction from direction A1 toward second passage 192. Light continues through aperture 181 in direction A2 and shines through outer top member 178. The geometry of the optical fiber 187 is tailored to distribute light evenly with a very short path length as shown. The dispersant used in the optical fiber 187 helps to spread the light more evenly, thus minimizing the concentration of light from the light member 186. Due to the short path length involved, the LED light member 186 can project light having a more concentrated brightness in certain areas. With this design, light is more uniformly diffused and reflected, and there is a limited light gradient across the aperture 181. The outer top member 178 disposed over the opening 181 is made of a material having a desired translucency and a coloring agent. Thus, as can be appreciated from FIGS. 90 and 91, when the light member 186 is not illuminated, the user will not find the LED present on the module 22, thus resulting in an empty or "dead front" appearance. When light member 186 is illuminated, light is directed along arrow A1 and upward along arrow A2 and through opening 181 and outer top member 178 as indicated by indication LT in FIG. Due to the geometry and processing of the optical fiber 187 and the top member, light is reflected in a more enhanced manner, resulting in light that is uniformly distributed throughout the area of light shining through the top member. Additional structures could be added to reflect light in a more enhanced manner. For example, optical fiber 187 may include a surface texture that enhances light reflection. The slanted walls and other surfaces of the optical fiber 187 can be painted or have an adhesive applied thereon to achieve the desired change in light reflection. It is understood that light member 186 can project light in multiple colors. The light member 186 presents marks indicating various parameters including the battery life of the module 22.

  The fabrication of port 14 and module 22 described herein results in a slip fit. The configuration provides a watertight configuration and resists the ingress of moisture. These properties are achieved while maintaining an operable connection between port 14 and module 22. The fingers 158 of the interface assembly also provide a robust connection of the insert member 37 with the extension 21 because the position of engagement between the finger and the extension is maximized. Filler material 159 is selected to have the desired hardness to provide sufficient flexibility and corrosion resistance. In one exemplary embodiment, filler material 159 may have a Shore durometer Type A scale of 30 or less. Filler material 159 provides protection around the connection between extension 21 and interface assembly 156. The receiver / post connection of the housing and insert member 37 further provides stress relief for the insert member 37 to minimize the possibility of the insert member 37 tearing during use.

  FIGS. 91-94 disclose additional features relating to the ground plane extender associated with the module 22. In particular, a further aspect relates to maximizing the surface area of a layer of a PCB of one or more electronic devices, such as module 22. Particular aspects relate to increasing the surface area of the ground plane layer of the PCB. FIG. 91 illustrates a perspective top view of an example PCB 1002 that includes one or more components in telecommunications, including, but not limited to, a processor, a capacitor, a diode, a resistor, and / or a combination thereof. May be provided. Although the PCB 1002 is illustrated as being flat across the horizontal axis (the “x” axis), those skilled in the art will appreciate that the PCB 1002 (or multiple individual PCBs in effective communication) may be configured to form a non-planar structure. You should understand that. The PCB 1002 further includes a ground plane layer (see 1004) formed of a conductive material such as copper. As shown in FIG. 91, the visible portion of the ground plane layer 1004 is located around the PCB 1002, but the portion of the layer 1004 may be disposed and / or connected to other portions of the PCB 1002.

  In certain embodiments, at least one component of PCB 1002 is configurable to effectively communicate with a portable power source, such as a battery (not shown in FIGS. 91-93 but shown in FIG. 94). The PCB 1002 may be configured for installation inside a portable device having limited dimensions for a battery or other type of portable power source. Due to the aforementioned dimensional limitations of portable devices, batteries are often small, and they may have limited service time between charges and / or limited discharge rates. According to one embodiment, PCB 1002 may include a space, such as battery space 1006. As shown in FIG. 91, the battery space 1006 comprises an area along the x and z planes of the PCB 1002 that allows for the installation of a power supply adjacent to the PCB 1002. The PCB 1002 may be manufactured to dimensions that create the battery space 1002 or may be configured to be modified (eg, by alternating thickness snap areas and / or areas) to form one or more battery spaces. . In this regard, an exemplary space is a battery space, but those skilled in the art will appreciate that the disclosure is not limited to only those areas and / or spaces configured to house or locate the battery.

  Although the battery space 1006 of the PCB 1002 is illustrated as a slot configuration where the portions of the PCB 1002 meet on three sides, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the shape, size and / or configuration of the PCB 1002 is merely exemplary and other shapes may be used. It should be readily appreciated that it is within the scope of the disclosure. The exact shape and size of battery space 1006 may be dictated by its intended use, and is not limited by this disclosure. Accordingly, the only requirement for battery space 1006 is to include an area along the horizontal plane of PCB 1002 (eg, along the x-axis) to allow for the placement of power supplies along the same plane and adjacent to PCB 1002. is there. As shown in FIG. 94, which shows a side view of the PCB 1002, a battery, such as the battery 1008, may be positioned along a horizontal plane (x-axis) of the PCB 1002. Since the battery 1008 occupies an area inside the battery space 1006, the surface area of the PCB 1002 is minimized compared to a non-spaced PCB such as the battery space 1008, but instead of the ground plane layer 1004 located at the same point. Including large area.

  According to certain embodiments, a ground plane extender (eg, 1010) may be electronically connected to the ground plane layer 1004 of the PCB 1002. FIG. 92 illustrates an example ground plane extender 1010 according to one embodiment. Ground plane extender 1010 may be formed of any material that effectively increases the surface area of ground plane layer 1004. In one embodiment, the ground plane extender can be made of copper and / or aluminum, but in further embodiments, any conductive material can be utilized for at least a portion of the ground plane extender 1010. One or more connectors 1012 may be configured to provide contact (and / or) between the extender 1010 and the ground plane layer 1004 by any of conductive adhesive, soldering, pass-through soldering, welding, snap-in connections, and combinations thereof. Or alignment). As shown in FIG. 92, the extender 1010 can be installed adjacent to one side (eg, the top) of the battery 1008 and has an upper region that is substantially parallel to the PCB 1002 along the horizontal (x) axis and is therefore planar with it. (For example, 1014). For example, extender 1010 may include a vertical ridge 1016 operatively connected to PCB 1002 and extending therefrom to upper region 1016. The upper region 1016 may include one or more openings 1018 that may allow for heat exchange from surrounding components including the battery 1008.

  As seen in FIG. 94, the extender 1010 is shown adjacent to a first side (eg, upper side) of the battery 1008 and is electronically connected to the PCB 1002, with the antenna 1020 having the opposite side (eg, bottom side) of the battery 1008. ). In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 94, the ground plane extender 1010 and the antenna 1020 are also in a configuration parallel to the PCB 1002 and each other. Thus, in at least one embodiment, the portable device may include three layers, a first layer including a ground plane extender, such as extender 1010, wherein at least a portion of the battery is operatively connected to the ground plane extender. There is a second layer that includes the battery and a third layer that includes an antenna, such as antenna 1020, arranged to be in the same plane as the PCB. In the exemplary embodiment, the layers are arranged vertically, although other arrangements are within the scope of this disclosure. In this regard, unless stated otherwise, each layer need not be in direct physical contact with the adjacent surface of the adjacent layer. For example, the antenna 1020 need not be in direct physical contact with the adjacent surface of the battery 1008.

  FIG. 6 shows a schematic diagram of an exemplary electronic module 22 including data transmission / reception capabilities with a data transmission / reception system 107 that may be used in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention. Although the example structure of FIG. 6 illustrates the data transmission / reception system (TX-RX) 107 as being incorporated into the electronic module structure 22, those skilled in the art will appreciate that separate components may be used for data transmission / reception purposes. 100 and / or that the data transmission / reception system 107 need not be completely contained in a single housing or single package in all embodiments of the present invention. You should understand. Rather, if desired, the various components or elements of data transmission / reception system 107 may be separated from one another in different housings, on different boards, and / or without departing from the invention. In different ways, they may be separately engaged with the article of footwear 100 or other devices. Various embodiments of the various possible mounting structures are described in further detail below.

  In the embodiment of FIG. 6, the electronic component 22 may include a data transmission / reception element 107 for transmitting data to and / or receiving data from one or more remote systems. In one embodiment, the transmit / receive element 107 is configured for communication via port 14, for example, by the contact or contactless interface described above. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6, module 22 includes an interface 23 configured for connection with port 14 and / or sensor 16. In the module 22 illustrated in FIG. 6, the interface 23 has a contact that is complementary to the terminal 11 of the interface 20 of the port 14 for connecting to the port 14. In other embodiments, as described above, port 14 and module 22 may include different types of interfaces 20, 23, which may be contact or wireless. It is understood that in some embodiments, module 22 can interface with port 14 and / or sensor 16 via TX-RX element 107. Thus, in one embodiment, module 22 may be external to footwear 100 and port 14 may include a wireless transmitter interface for communication with module 22. The electronic components 22 of this embodiment further include a processing system 202 (eg, one or more microprocessors), a memory system 204, and a power supply 206 (eg, a battery or other power supply). In one embodiment, power supply 206 may be configured for inductive charging, for example, by including a coil or other inductive member. In this configuration, module 22 can be charged by placing article of footwear 100 on an inductive pad or other inductive charger, allowing charging without removing module 22 from port 14. In another embodiment, the power supply 206 may be additionally or alternatively configured for charging using energy harvesting technology, such as a charger that charges the power supply 206 by absorbing kinetic energy due to user movement. , An apparatus for energy harvesting.

  The connection with one or more sensors can be completed as shown in FIG. 6, but with pedometer type speed and / or distance information, other speed and / or distance data sensor information, temperature, altitude, barometric pressure Including, for example, humidity, GPS data, accelerometer output or data, heart rate, pulse rate, blood pressure, body temperature, EKG data, EEG data, data on angular orientation (such as gyroscope-based sensors) and changes in angular orientation, etc. Additional sensors (not shown) may be provided to sense or provide data or information regarding a wide variety of different types of parameters, such as physical or physiological data related to use of the article of footwear 100 or a user. This data may then be stored in memory 204 and / or made available for transmission by transmission / reception system 107 to, for example, any remote location or system. If present, the additional sensor (s) may also provide a jump height for pedometer type speed and / or distance information (e.g., to sense direction changes during steps). To sense, etc.) accelerometers. In one embodiment, module 22 may include an additional sensor 208, such as an accelerometer, and data from sensor 16 may be integrated with data from accelerometer 208, for example, by module 22 or external device 110.

  As an additional example, the various types of electronic modules, systems and methods described above can be used to provide automatic shock damping control for articles of footwear. Such systems and methods may operate, for example, as described in U.S. Patent No. 6,430,843, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2003/0009913 and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. (US Pat. No. 6,430,843, US Patent Application Publication No. 2003/0009913, and US Patent Application Publication No. 2004/0177531). Each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety and forms a part of this document). When used to provide speed and / or distance type information, a sensing unit of the type described in U.S. Patent Nos. 5,724,265, 5,955,667, 6,018,705, 6,052,654, 6,876,947 and 6,882,955. , Algorithms and / or systems may be used. Each of these patents is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Additional embodiments of sensors and sensor systems, as well as articles of footwear and components utilizing sole structures and the like, are described in U.S. Patent Application Publication Nos. 2010/0063778 and 2010/0063779, which are incorporated herein by reference. Is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety and forms a part of this document.

  Electronic module 22 may also include an activation system (not shown). The activation system, or a portion thereof, may engage the module 22 or the article of footwear 100 (or other device) with or separately from other portions of the electronic module 22. The activation system may be used to selectively activate electronic module 22 and / or at least some functions of electronic module 22, such as data transmission / reception capabilities. A wide variety of different activation systems can be used without departing from this invention, and a variety of such systems are described in further detail below with respect to various included figures. In one embodiment, the sensor system 12 may be activated and / or deactivated by activating the sensor 16 in a particular pattern, for example, a continuous or alternating toe / heel tap. In another embodiment, the sensor system 12 may be activated by a button or switch, which may be located at the module 22, the shoe 100, or an external device in communication with the sensor system 12, as well as at other locations. In any of these embodiments, the sensor system 12 may include a "sleep" mode, which can deactivate the system 12 after a set period of inactivity. In an alternative embodiment, the sensor system 12 may operate as a low power device that does not activate or deactivate.

  Module 22 may further be configured for communication with an external device 110, which may be an external computer or computer system, a mobile device, a gaming system or other type of electronic device, as shown in FIG. The example external device 110 illustrated in FIG. 23 includes a processor 302, a memory 304, a power supply 306, a display 308, a user input 310, and a data transmission / reception system 108. The transmission / reception system 108 is configured for communication with the module 22 by the transmission / reception system 107 of the module 22 by any type of known electronic communication, including the contact and contactless communication methods described above. It is understood that module 22 and / or port 14 may be configured for communication with multiple external devices. The plurality of external devices include a wide variety of different forms and configurations of electronic devices, as well as intermediate devices that function to pass information to another external device and may or may not further process the data. Further, the transmission / reception system 107 of the module 22 may be configured for a plurality of different types of electronic communication. Further, it is understood that shoe 100 may include a separate power supply to operate sensor 16 as needed, such as a battery, piezoelectric, solar power supply, and the like. In the embodiment of FIGS. 3-22B, the sensor 16 receives power through a connection with the module 22.

  As described below, such sensor assemblies can be customized for use with specific software for electronic module 22 and / or external device 110. Third parties may provide such software as a package along with a sole insert with a customized sensor assembly. The module 22 and / or the entire sensor system 12 may include one or more algorithms for analyzing data obtained from the sensor 16, including algorithms stored and / or executed by the module, external device 110, or another component. Can work with.

  In operation, sensors 16 collect data according to their function and design and transmit the data to port 14. Port 14 continues to allow electronic module 22 to interface with sensor 16 and collect data for subsequent use and / or processing. In one embodiment, the data is collected, stored, and transmitted in a universally readable format, such that the data is accessed by multiple users, by a variety of different applications, for use for a variety of different purposes. And / or can be downloaded. In one embodiment, data is collected, stored, and transmitted in XML format. In one embodiment, module 22 utilizes sensor 10 as shown in FIG. 20 to measure voltage drop at measurement terminal 104b, which represents the change in resistance of the particular sensor 16 currently switched. Detect the pressure change of FIG. 27 illustrates an example of a pressure-resistance curve for the sensor 16, with the dashed lines illustrating possible curve shifts due to factors such as bending of the insert 37. Module 22 may have a startup resistance RA, which is the detected resistance required for module 22 to record the pressure on the sensor. The corresponding pressure that produces such resistance is known as the starting pressure PA. The activation resistance RA may be selected to correspond to a particular activation pressure PA for which it is desired that the module 22 record data. In one embodiment, the starting pressure PA may be about 0.15 bar, about 0.2 bar or about 0.25 bar, and the corresponding starting resistance RA may be about 100 kΩ. Further, in one embodiment, the highest sensitivity range may be between 150 and 1500 mbar. In one embodiment, the sensor system 12 made as shown in FIGS. 3-22B can detect pressures in the range of 0.1 to 7.0 bar (or about 0.1 to 7.0 atmospheres), In the embodiment, the sensor system 12 can detect a pressure exceeding this range with high sensitivity.

  In various embodiments, sensor system 12 may be configured to collect various types of data. In one embodiment (described above), sensor (s) 16 can collect data regarding the number, order and / or frequency of compressions. For example, the system 12 can record the number or frequency of steps, jumps, cuts, kicks, and other compressive forces received while wearing the article of footwear 100, as well as other parameters such as contact time and dwell time. Both quantitative and binary on / off sensors can collect this data. In another embodiment, the system can record the sequence of compressive forces received by the footwear, such as for example, pronation or supination of the foot, weight shifting, determining the foot contact pattern, or used for such purposes. it can. In another embodiment (also described above), the sensor (s) 16 can quantitatively measure the compression force at adjacent portions of the shoe 100, so that the data includes quantitative compression and / or impact measurements. obtain. The relative differences in forces at different parts of the shoe 100 can be used in determining the weight distribution and "center of pressure" of the shoe 100. The weight distribution and / or the center of pressure may be calculated independently for one or both of the shoes 100, or may be calculated together across both shoes, for example to find the center of pressure or the center of the weight distribution of the entire human body. . In further embodiments, sensor (s) 16 can measure the rate of change of compression force, contact time, dwell time or time between impacts (eg, jump or running) and / or other time-dependent parameters. It is understood that in any embodiment, the sensor 16 may require a particular threshold force or shock before recording the force / shock, as described above.

  As mentioned above, the data is provided to the module 22 through the universal port 14 in a universally readable format, so that the number of applications, users and programs that can use the data is almost unlimited. Thus, port 14 and module 22 are configured and / or programmed as required by the user, and port 14 and module 22 receive input data from sensor system 12, and that data can be used in any manner required for various applications. . Module 22 can recognize whether the received data is associated with a left or right shoe, for example, by using a unique identification chip 92 as described herein. Module 22 may process the data differently according to the identification of the left and right shoes, and transmit the data to external device 110 with the identification that the data is from the left and right shoes. External device 110 may also process or otherwise handle the data based on the identification of the left and right shoes as well. In one embodiment, the connection of sensor 16 with terminal 11 and interface 20 may differ between left and right inserts 37, as shown in FIG. 12 and discussed above. Data from the left insert 37 can be interpreted differently from data from the right insert 37 according to this sequence. Module 22 and / or electronic device 110 may perform similar operations with respect to other identification information included in unique identification chip 92. In many applications, the data is further processed by module 22 and / or external device 110 before use. In an arrangement in which the external device 110 further processes the data, the module 22 may transmit the data to the external device 110. This transmission data may be sent in the same universally readable format or in another format, and module 22 may be configured to change the format of the data. Further, module 22 can be configured and / or programmed to collect, utilize, and / or process data from sensors 16 for use in one or more specific applications. In one embodiment, module 22 is configured to collect, utilize and / or process data for use in multiple applications. Examples of such uses and applications are set forth below. As used herein, the term "application" generally refers to a particular use, and does not necessarily refer to use in a computer program application as used in computer technology. Nevertheless, certain uses may be embodied in whole or in part in a computer program application.

  Further, in one embodiment, the module 22 can be removed from the article of footwear 100 and can be replaced with a second module 22 that is configured to operate differently than the first module 22. For example, the replacement may be performed by lifting the foot contact member 133, separating the first module 22 from the port 14 and removing the first module 22 from the housing 24, and then inserting the second module 22 into the housing 24 and Is connected to the port 14, and finally, the foot contact member 133 is arranged in an appropriate position. The second module 22 may be programmed and / or configured differently than the first module 22. In one embodiment, the first module 22 may be configured for use in one or more specific applications, and the second module 22 may be configured for use in one or more different applications. For example, the first module 22 may be configured for use in one or more gaming applications, and the second module 22 may be configured for use in one or more athletic performance monitoring applications. Further, module 22 may be configured for use in different applications of the same type. For example, the first module 22 may be configured for use in one game or athletic performance monitoring application, and the second module 22 may be configured for use in a different game or athletic performance monitoring application. As another example, module 22 may be configured for different uses within the same game or athletic performance monitoring application. In another embodiment, the first module 22 may be configured to collect one type of data, and the second module 22 may be configured to collect different types of data. Examples of such data formats include quantitative force and / or pressure measurements, relative force and / or pressure measurements (ie, sensors 16 with respect to each other), weight shift / shift, shock sequence (eg, foot contact pattern), force And / or including the rate of change of pressure. In a further embodiment, first module 22 may be configured to utilize or process data from sensor 16 in a different manner than second module 22. For example, module 22 can be configured only to collect, store, and / or transmit data, or module 22 can, for example, organize data, change the form of data, perform calculations with data, etc. The data can be configured to be further processed in any manner. In yet another embodiment, the module 22 can be configured to communicate differently, for example, having a different communication interface, configured to communicate with a different external device 110, and the like. Module 22 includes both structural and functional aspects, such as using different power supplies or including additional or different hardware components, such as additional sensors (eg, GPS, accelerometers, etc.) as described above. Similarly, other embodiments may function differently.

  One possible use for the data collected by the system 12 is in many sports such as golf swings, baseball / softball swings, hockey swings (ice or field hockey), tennis swings, ball throws, etc. It is about measuring weight shift, which is important for your activity. The pressure data collected by the system 12 can provide valuable feedback on balance and stability for use in improving skills in any applicable field of exercise. It will be appreciated that a somewhat expensive and complex sensor system 12 can be designed based on the intended use of the collected data.

  The data collected by the system 12 can be used in measuring various other athletic performance characteristics. The data can be used to measure the degree and / or speed of foot pronation / supination, ground contact patterns, balance and other relevant parameters, which can be used to improve skills in running / jogging and other athletic activities. Can be used. For pronation / supination movements, analysis of the data can also be used as a predictor of pronation / supination movements. Speed and distance monitoring can be performed, which can include pedometer-based measurements such as, for example, ground contact measurements or lift time measurements. Jump height can also be measured, for example, by using a ground or lift time measurement. Lateral cutting forces can be measured, including differential forces applied to various parts of the shoe 100 during cutting. Sensor 16 can also be positioned to measure shear forces, for example, a foot sliding laterally inside shoe 100. As an example, additional sensors may be incorporated on the side of the upper 120 of the shoe 100 to sense force on the side.

  The data or measurements derived therefrom are useful for athletic training purposes, including improvements in speed, strength, agility, consistency, skill, and the like. Port 14, module 22, and / or external device 110 can be configured to provide active real-time feedback to the user. In one embodiment, port 14 and / or module 22 can be in communication with a computer, mobile device, etc., to communicate results in real time. In another embodiment, one or more vibrating elements may be included in the shoe 100, such as the features disclosed in US Pat. Vibrating a portion of the shoe can provide user feedback to help control movement. Further, the data may be compared to the user's past movements, for example to indicate consistency, improvement or lack thereof, or to compare the user's movements to the same movements of another person, e.g., a professional golfer's swing. Can be used to compare athletic movements. In addition, the system 12 can be used to record biomechanical data of an athlete's "signature" athletic movement. This data may be provided to others for use in motion reproduction or simulation, such as for use in gaming applications or in shadow applications that superimpose motion on similar motions of a user.

  The system 12 may also be configured for "all day activity" tracking, in order to record various activities that the user is involved in during the day. The system 12 may include algorithms dedicated for this purpose, for example in the module 22, the external device 110 and / or the sensor 16.

  System 12 can also be used for control rather than data collection and processing applications. In other words, the system 12 uses footwear or another article that receives physical contact to control an external device 110, such as a computer, television, video game, etc., based on the user's movement detected by the sensor 16. Can be incorporated. In effect, the footwear with the embedded sensor 16 and the leads 18 extending to the universal port 14 allows the footwear to function as an input system, and the electronic module 22 receives input from the sensor 16 and receives this input. The data can be configured, programmed, and adapted to be used in any desired manner, for example, as a control input for a remote system. For example, a shoe with sensor control can be used as a control or input device for a computer or for a computer-executed program, similar to a mouse, for certain foot movements, gestures, etc. , Double foot taps, heel taps, double heel taps, lateral foot movements, foot points, leg flexion, etc., can control the default actions on the computer (eg page down, page up, undo, copy, Cut, paste, save, close, etc.). Software for assigning foot gestures to various computer function controls can be provided for this purpose. It is contemplated that the operating system may be configured to receive and recognize control inputs from the sensor system 12. A television or other external electronic device can also be controlled in this way. The footwear 100 incorporating the system 12 can also be used in game applications and programs, similar to Nintendo Wii controllers, where certain movements can be assigned to certain functions, and / or user movements on the display screen. Can be used to produce a virtual representation of As an example, the center of pressure data and other weight distribution data may be used in gaming applications, which may involve a virtual representation of balancing, weight shifting and other fulfillment activities. System 12 can be used as a dedicated controller for games and other computer systems, or as a complementary controller. An example of an arrangement and method for using a sensor system for an article of footwear as a controller for an external device and using foot gestures for the controller is shown and described in US Provisional Application No. 61/138048. And it is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

  Further, system 12 may be configured to communicate directly with external device 110 and / or with a controller of the external device. As described above, FIG. 6 illustrates one embodiment of communication between the electronic module 22 and an external device. In another embodiment illustrated in FIG. 23, system 12 can be configured for communication with external gaming device 110A. The external game device 110A includes components similar to the example external device 110 illustrated in FIG. The external game device 110A also communicates with at least one game medium 307 (eg, cartridge, CD, DVD, Blu-ray or other storage device) containing the game program, and a wired and / or wireless connection through the transmit / receive element 108. And at least one remote controller 305 configured to do so. In the illustrated embodiment, controller 305 complements user input 310, but in one embodiment, controller 305 may function as a single user input. In this embodiment, system 12 includes a wireless transmitter / receiver with a USB plug-in configured to be connected to external device 110 and / or controller 305 to enable communication with module 22. , And an attachment device 303. In one embodiment, accessory 303 may be configured to connect with one or more additional controllers and / or external devices of the same and / or different types as controller 305 and external device 110. It is understood that if system 12 includes other types of sensors described above (e.g., accelerometers), such additional sensors may also be incorporated into controlling external devices 110 for games and other programs.

  External device 110, such as a computer / game system, may include other types of software to interact with system 12. For example, a game program can be configured to change the attributes of an in-game character based on the user's real activity, which can encourage exercise or greater activity by the user. In another embodiment, the program can be configured to display an avatar of a user acting in relation to or in proportion to user activity collected by the shoe sensing system. In such a configuration, the avatar may appear excited or energetic if the user is active, and the avatar may appear sleepy or lazy if the user is inactive. The sensor system 12 could also be configured for more elaborate sensing to record data describing the athlete's "signature move" that can later be used for various purposes, for example in a gaming system or a modeling system.

  A single article of footwear 100 that includes the sensor system 12 described herein has its own sensor system 12 ', either alone or as illustrated in FIGS. 24-26, such as a pair of shoes 100, 100'. It can be used in combination with the second article of footwear 100 '. The sensor system 12 'of the second shoe 100' generally includes one or more sensors 16 'connected by sensor leads 18' to a port 14 'in communication with an electronic module 22'. The second sensor system 12 ′ of the second shoe 100 ′ illustrated in FIGS. 24-26 has the same configuration as the sensor system 12 of the first shoe 100. However, in another embodiment, shoes 100, 100 'may have sensor systems 12, 12' with different configurations. The two shoes 100, 100 'are both configured for communication with the external device 110, and in the illustrated embodiment, each of the shoes 100, 100' is configured for communication with the external device 110. Electronic modules 22, 22 '. In another embodiment, both shoes 100, 100 'may have ports 14, 14' configured for communication with the same electronic module 22. In this embodiment, at least one shoe 100, 100 'may be configured for wireless communication with module 22. FIGS. 24-26 illustrate various modes of communication between modules 22, 22 '.

  FIG. 24 illustrates a “mesh” communication mode, wherein the modules 22, 22 ′ are configured to communicate with each other and also for independent communication with the external device 110. FIG. 25 illustrates a “daisy-chain” communication mode, in which one module 22 ′ communicates with the external device 110 through the other module 22. In other words, the second module 22 'is configured to communicate a signal (which may include data) to the first module 22, and the first module 22 transmits signals from both modules 22, 22' to an external device. It is configured to communicate to 110. Similarly, the external device communicates with the second module 22 'through the first module 22 by sending a signal to the first module 22, which communicates a signal to the second module 22'. In one embodiment, the modules 22, 22 'can communicate with each other for purposes other than transmitting signals to and from the external device 110. FIG. 26 illustrates an “independent” communication mode, where each module 22, 22 ′ is configured for independent communication with an external device 110 and the modules 22, 22 ′ are configured for communication with each other. Not configured. In other embodiments, the sensor systems 12, 12 'are configured for communication with each other and / or with the external device 110 in another manner.

  As those skilled in the art will appreciate upon reading this disclosure, the various aspects described herein may be embodied as a method, data processing system, or computer program product. Accordingly, those aspects may take the form of an entirely hardware embodiment, an entirely software embodiment or an embodiment combining software and hardware aspects. Moreover, such aspects may take the form of one or more tangible computer readable storage media having computer readable program code or instructions embodied in the storage medium or a computer program product stored by a storage device. Any suitable tangible computer readable storage medium may be used, including a hard disk, CD-ROM, optical storage, magnetic storage, and / or any combination thereof. In addition, various intangible signals representing data or events, as described herein, may be transmitted by signal transmission media such as metal wiring, optical fibers, and / or electromagnetic waves traveling through wireless transmission media (eg, air and / or space). It can be transferred between source and destination in form.

  As noted above, aspects of the invention may be described in the general context of computer-executable instructions, such as program modules, being executed by a computer and / or its processor. Generally, program modules include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, etc. that perform particular tasks or embody particular abstract data types. Such program modules may be included in a tangible, non-transitory, computer-readable medium, as described above. Aspects of the invention may also be practiced in distributed computing environments where tasks are performed by remote processing devices that are linked by a communications network. The program modules may be located, for example, in memory 204 of module 22 or memory 304 of external device 110, or on external media such as game media 307, which include both local and remote computer storage media, including memory storage. obtain. It is understood that module 22, external device 110, and / or external media may include complementary program modules for use together, for example, in certain applications. Also, a single processor 202, 302 and a single memory 204, 304 are shown and described in the module 22 and the external device 110 for simplicity, and the processor 202, 302 and the memory 204, 304 each include a plurality of processors and It is understood that it may include a memory and / or a system of processors and / or memory.

  The sensor systems described herein can be used in a variety of different applications and configurations, including general athletic performance monitoring, for example, in fitness training or sport-specific activities such as basketball. It is understood that additional sensors can be located at other locations in the footwear. The sensors of the sensor system can also be configured to sense certain lateral motions and motion cutting motions. As described herein above, the data collected by the sensor system can be processed by relevant algorithms at either the electronic module, mobile device or remote site. Such data processing can be used to advise the user regarding wear, and the user could be advised when a new pair of shoes is needed. Such data could also be processed and used to advise a user on a particular type of shoe design that could be beneficial to a particular user. Finally, the data can be processed to assist in custom footwear design. Although the sensor system was shown in footwear, the system could be used in other types of clothing.

  The various embodiments of the sensor system described herein provide benefits and advantages over existing technology, as well as articles of footwear, foot contact members, inserts, and other structures that incorporate the sensor system. For example, many of the sensor embodiments described herein provide a relatively low cost and durable option to the sensor system so that the sensor system can be incorporated into the article of footwear with little additional cost and excellent reliability. . As a result, footwear can be manufactured with an integral sensor system with little impact on price, regardless of whether the sensor system is ultimately desired to be used by the consumer. Further, sole inserts with customized sensor systems can be manufactured and sold inexpensively with software designed to utilize the sensor system with little impact on software cost. As another example, the sensor system may provide practical controls for games, fitness, athletic training and enhancement, computers and other devices, and many others described herein and recognized by those skilled in the art. Provides a wide range of functionality for use in a wide variety of applications, including. In one embodiment, a third-party software developer can develop software configured to run using input from the sensor system, including games and other programs. The ability of a sensor system to provide data in a universally readable format greatly expands the range of third party software and other applications that the sensor system can use. Further, in one embodiment, the sensor system can generate signals and data that enable accurate detection of the applied force, which provides greater utility and versatility. As a further example, various sole inserts including sensor systems, including liners, insoles, and other elements, allow for compatibility and customization of the sensor system for various applications. Other advantages will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

  Several alternative embodiments and examples have been described and illustrated herein. Those skilled in the art will appreciate the features of the individual embodiments and possible combinations and variations of the components. One skilled in the art will further appreciate that any of the embodiments may be provided in any combination with the other embodiments disclosed herein. It is understood that the present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. Accordingly, the examples and embodiments of the present invention are to be regarded in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive, and should not be construed as limiting the invention to the details set forth herein. As used herein, the terms "first," "second," "up," "down," and the like are intended for illustrative purposes only and in no way limit the embodiments. Further, as used herein, the term "plurality" refers to any number greater than one, up to an infinite number, where necessary, whether discrete or continuous. Further, as used herein, "providing" an article or device broadly refers to making the article available or accessible for future actions to be performed on the article, and who provides the article. Does not mean that the Company has manufactured, produced or supplied the goods, or that the person providing the goods has possession or control of the goods. Thus, while specific embodiments have been illustrated and described, many modifications may be made without departing significantly from the spirit of the invention, and the scope of protection is only limited by the scope of the appended claims.

Claims (40)

  A sensor system,
  An insert member configured to be inserted into a foot storage chamber of an article of footwear, the insert member including a first layer, a second layer, and a spacer layer disposed between the first and second layers. ,
  A port connected to the insert member and configured for communication with an electronic module;
  A first sensor formed on the insert member, wherein the first sensor includes a first contact disposed on the first layer and a second contact disposed on the second layer. The first sensor is configured such that pressure on the insert member increases engagement between the first and second contacts to change the resistance of the first sensor. Sensors and
  One or more leads disposed on the first layer and the second layer, the leads connecting the first and second contacts to the port;
With
  A first layer aligned with the first sensor to enable at least partial engagement between the first and second contacts of the first sensor by the spacer layer; A hole, and a first flow path extending from the first hole to a first vent in the insert member, wherein the first flow path allows air to flow through the first vent through the first vent. A sensor system that allows flow from the first sensor to the exterior of the insert member between first and second layers.   A second sensor formed on the insert member, wherein the second sensor includes a third contact disposed on the first layer and a fourth contact disposed on the second layer. The second sensor is configured such that pressure on the insert member increases engagement between the third and fourth contacts to change the resistance of the second sensor; Further comprising a second sensor, wherein the lead further connects the third and fourth contacts to the port;
  A second layer aligned with the second sensor to enable at least partial engagement between the third and fourth contacts of the second sensor by the spacer layer; A hole, and a second flow path extending from the second hole to the first vent, wherein the second flow path allows air to flow through the first and second vents by the first vent. The sensor system of claim 1, wherein the sensor system allows flow from the second sensor to the exterior of the insert member between layers of the insert member.   The second flow path is connected to the first hole, and the second flow path is configured to allow air to flow from the second sensor between the first and second layers by the first vent from the second sensor. 3. The sensor system of claim 2, wherein the sensor system allows for flow to the first sensor via a flow path.   3. The system of claim 2, further comprising a first selectively permeable closure covering the first vent, allowing inward and outward flow of air, and resisting inward flow of moisture and particulates. Sensor system.   A third sensor formed on the insert member, wherein the third sensor includes a fifth contact disposed on the first layer and a sixth contact disposed on the second layer. The third sensor is configured such that pressure on the insert member increases engagement between the fifth and sixth contacts to change the resistance of the third sensor; Further comprising a third sensor, wherein the lead further connects the fifth and sixth contacts to the port;
  A third layer aligned with the third sensor to allow at least partial engagement between the fifth and sixth contacts of the third sensor by the spacer layer; A hole, and a third flow path extending from the third hole to a second vent in the insert member, wherein the third flow path allows air to flow through the second vent by the second vent. 3. The sensor system of claim 2, wherein the sensor system allows flow from the third sensor to outside the insert member between first and second layers.   6. The system of claim 5, further comprising a second selectively permeable closure overlying the second vent to permit inward and outward flow of air and resist inward flow of moisture and particulates. Sensor system.   7. The sensor system of claim 6, wherein the first and second selectively permeable closures allow outward flow of moisture.   A fourth sensor formed on the insert member, wherein the fourth sensor includes a seventh contact disposed on the first layer and an eighth contact disposed on the second layer. The fourth sensor is configured such that pressure on the insert member increases engagement between the seventh and eighth contacts to change the resistance of the fourth sensor; Further comprising a fourth sensor, wherein the lead further connects the seventh and eighth contacts to the port;
  A fourth layer aligned with the fourth sensor to enable at least partial engagement between the seventh and eighth contacts of the fourth sensor by the spacer layer; A hole, and a fourth flow path extending from the fourth hole to the second vent, wherein the fourth flow path allows air to flow through the first and second vents through the second vent. 6. The sensor system of claim 5, wherein the sensor system allows flow from the fourth sensor to the exterior of the insert member between layers of the insert member.   The first sensor is located at a first metatarsal region of the insert member, the second sensor is located at a first phalange region of the insert member, and the third sensor is located at a fifth metatarsal region of the insert member. 9. The sensor system of claim 8, wherein the sensor is located in a metatarsal region and the fourth sensor is located in a heel region of the insert member.   A second sensor formed on the insert member, wherein the second sensor includes a third contact disposed on the first layer and a fourth contact disposed on the second layer. The second sensor is configured such that pressure on the insert member increases engagement between the third and fourth contacts to change the resistance of the second sensor; Further comprising a second sensor, wherein the lead further connects the third and fourth contacts to the port;
  A second layer aligned with the second sensor to enable at least partial engagement between the third and fourth contacts of the second sensor by the spacer layer; A hole, and a second flow path extending from the second hole to a second vent in the insert member, wherein the second flow path allows air to flow through the second vent through the second vent. The sensor system of claim 1, wherein the sensor system allows flow from the second sensor to outside of the insert member between first and second layers.   A first selectively permeable closure that covers the first vent; and a second selectively permeable closure that covers the second vent, wherein the first and second selectively permeable closures include: 11. The sensor system of claim 10, wherein the sensor system permits inward and outward flow of air and resists inward flow of moisture and particulates.   2. The system of claim 1, further comprising a first selectively permeable closure covering the first vent, allowing inward and outward flow of air, and resisting inward flow of moisture and particulates. Sensor system.   13. The sensor system according to claim 12, wherein the first selectively permeable closure comprises a fluororesin porous membrane.   14. The sensor system of claim 13, wherein the first selectively permeable closure comprises a porous membrane containing PTFE fibers and has an adhesive on one side.   13. The sensor system of claim 12, wherein the first selectively permeable closure also allows for outward flow of moisture.   The first vent comprises a first cavity disposed on a bottom surface of the second layer facing the first layer, wherein the bottom surface of the second layer comprises a sole member of the article of footwear. The sensor system according to claim 1, wherein   A bottom layer disposed on the bottom surface of the second layer, the bottom layer having an opening covering a periphery of the first vent, wherein the opening is larger than the first cavity; 17. The sensor system of claim 16, forming a space between an edge and the first cavity, wherein a first selectively permeable closure is adhered within the opening to the bottom surface of the second layer.   The sensor system according to claim 1, wherein the first vent comprises a first cavity disposed between the first and second layers at a periphery of the insert member.   A sensor system,
  An insert member comprising a first layer and a second layer, the insert member being configured such that a bottom surface of the second layer facing a sole member of the article of footwear is supported by the sole member;
  A port configured for communication with the electronic module;
  A first sensor formed on the insert member between the first and second layers, wherein the first sensor is configured to detect pressure;
  One or more leads disposed on at least one of the first layer and the second layer, the leads connecting the first sensor to the port;
  A first flow path located between the first and second layers and extending from the first sensor to a first vent in the insert member, wherein air flows out of the first vent. Allowing flow from the first sensor to the exterior of the insert member between the first and second layers, wherein the first vent is provided on the bottom surface of the second layer opposite the first layer. A first flow path comprised of a first cavity within
A sensor system comprising:   A second sensor formed in the insert member between the first and second layers and configured to sense pressure, wherein the one or more leads further connect the second sensor to the port; A second sensor that connects to
  A second flow path located between the first and second layers and extending from the second sensor to the first vent, wherein air is passed through the first and second vents by the first vent; 20. The sensor system of claim 19, further comprising: a second flow path that allows flow from the second sensor to outside of the insert member between the layers.   21. The apparatus of claim 20, further comprising a first selectively permeable closure overlying the first vent, allowing inward and outward flow of air, and resisting inward flow of moisture and particulates. Sensor system.   A third sensor formed in the insert member between the first and second layers and configured to sense pressure, wherein the one or more leads further connect the third sensor to the port; A third sensor connected to
  A third flow path located between the first and second layers and extending from the third sensor to a second vent of the insert member, wherein air is provided by the second vent to the first flow path; 21. The sensor system of claim 20, further comprising: a third flow path to allow flow from the third sensor to outside the insert member between the second layer and the second layer.   23. The apparatus of claim 22, further comprising a second selectively permeable closure covering the second vent, allowing inward and outward flow of air, and resisting inward flow of moisture and particulates. Sensor system.   A fourth sensor formed on the insert member between the first and second layers and configured to sense pressure, wherein the one or more leads further connect the fourth sensor to the port. A fourth sensor connected to
  A fourth flow path located between the first and second layers and extending from the fourth sensor to the second vent, wherein air is passed through the first and second vents by the second vent; 23. The sensor system of claim 22, further comprising: a fourth flow path that allows flow from the fourth sensor to the exterior of the insert member between the layers.   The first sensor is located at a first metatarsal region of the insert member, the second sensor is located at a first phalange region of the insert member, and the third sensor is located at a fifth metatarsal region of the insert member. 25. The sensor system of claim 24, wherein the fourth sensor is located in a metatarsal region and the fourth sensor is located in a heel region of the insert member.   A second sensor formed in the insert member between the first and second layers and configured to sense pressure, wherein the one or more leads further connect the second sensor to the port; A second sensor that connects to
  A second flow path located between the first and second layers and extending from the second sensor to a second vent of the insert member, wherein air is passed through the first vent by the second vent; And allowing flow from the second sensor to the exterior of the insert member between the second layer and the second vent is comprised of a second cavity in the bottom layer of the second layer. 20. The sensor system of claim 19, further comprising: a second flow path.   A first selectively permeable closure covering the first vent; and a second selectively permeable closure covering the second vent, wherein the first and second selectively permeable closures comprise: 28. The sensor system of claim 26, wherein the sensor system permits inward and outward flow of air and resists inward flow of moisture and particulates.   20. The system according to claim 19, further comprising a first selectively permeable closure covering the first vent, allowing inward and outward flow of air, and resisting inward flow of moisture and particulates. Sensor system.   29. The sensor system of claim 28, wherein said first selectively permeable closure is comprised of a fluoroplastic porous membrane.   30. The sensor system of claim 29, wherein the first selectively permeable closure comprises a porous membrane including PTFE fibers and has an adhesive on one side.   29. The sensor system of claim 28, wherein the first selectively permeable closure also allows moisture to flow outward.   A bottom layer disposed on the bottom surface of the second layer, the bottom layer having an opening surrounding the first vent, wherein the opening is larger than the first cavity; 29. The sensor system of claim 28, forming a space between an edge and the first cavity, wherein the first selectively permeable closure is adhered to the bottom surface of the second layer within the opening.   Footwear,
  A sole structure configured to support a user's foot,
  The sensor system according to claim 1, wherein the second layer of the insert member is attached to the article of footwear such that the second layer faces the sole structure;
An article of footwear comprising:   The sole structure comprises a compressible sole member positioned below the insert member;
  A first space in the compressible sole member disposed immediately below the first vent, wherein air flowing out of the first vent passes through the first space; 34. The article of footwear of claim 33, further comprising a first space.   The compressible sole member includes a foam member having a top surface and a bottom surface, the top surface having a recess configured to receive an insert member on an inner surface thereof, and the bottom surface facing a midsole of the sole structure. 35. The article of footwear of claim 34, wherein   36. An article of footwear according to claim 35, wherein said first space is formed as a slot extending through said foam member.   Footwear,
  A sole structure configured to support a user's foot,
  20. The sensor system of claim 19, wherein the second layer of the insert member is attached to the article of footwear such that the second layer faces the sole structure.
An article of footwear comprising:   The sole structure comprises a compressible sole member positioned below the insert member;
  A first space in the sole member disposed immediately below the first vent, wherein the first air is configured to allow air flowing out of the first vent to pass through the first space; 38. The article of footwear of claim 37, further comprising:   The compressible sole member includes a foam member having a top surface and a bottom surface, the top surface having a recess configured to receive an insert member on an inner surface thereof, and the bottom surface facing a midsole of the sole structure. 39. The article of footwear of claim 38, wherein   40. An article of footwear according to claim 39, wherein said first space is formed as a slot extending through said foam member.