JPH05228002A - Shoes responding to impact and article emitting light or sound in response to impact - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE: To provide a thing, preferably the sneakers, which generate light, or sound energy or information in response to an impact. CONSTITUTION: In a product, particularly, the shoes including a impact sensing element made of high molecular piezoelectric material, the piezoelectric material 218 generates an electric signal to the light or sound generating unit of a battery electric source, or an information display device buried or included in at least a part of the product in response to the impact, thereby a circuit energizes the light or sound generating device 226, or displays the information on the information display device. The shoes 210 can be provided with a number of luminous devices, at least one impact sensor 218, a temperature sensor, and a circuit mechanism 220 for suitably processing the impact and temperature information.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

[Industrial field of application] This is a continuation application of a partial application of Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) No. PCT / GB91 / 00267 having an international filing date of February 20, 1991. This application is February 1990
British Patent Application No. 9003810.0 filed on 20th, and British Patent Application No. 901 filed May 24, 1990.
Claims 1681.5 priority. This application is also 19
UK Patent Application No. 911519 filed July 12, 1991
Claims 6.9 priority. The present invention relates to products containing piezoelectric materials, and in particular, but not exclusively, to products in the form of athletic shoes, balls and fishing lures.

[0002]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION For example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,748,360 to Taylor has previously been proposed to provide dancing shoes and children's balls, each containing a layer of piezoelectric material and a light source. .. The piezoelectric material and the light source are both directly electrically connected so that the electrical energy produced by the piezoelectric effect on the impact of the shoe or ball on the ground or other surface directly energizes the light source.

However, usually the amount of electrical energy produced in response to a typical shock is such that the readily visible light source energization, ie, clearly visible during the day, and / or effective continuation. Is insufficient to generate a bias of the illuminating light source.

For example, as can be seen with reference to the following, numerous US references describe lighting shoes, shoes containing piezoelectric material, other items containing piezoelectric material, and pressure sensitive items.

US Patent Application No. to Randolph
No. 1,597,823 discloses a shoe having a lighting means mounted in the heel thereof. This lighting means is controlled by a manual switch mechanism.

US Patent Application No. 3,239,696 to Burkhalter et al. Discloses a piezoelectric pressure transducer responsive to pressure changes from the subaudible frequency to at least the audible range. Used for sphygmomanometers to measure diastole and diastole of blood pressure changes, and other medical applications.

US Patent Application No. No. given to Searle
No. 3,323,367 is a grip for measuring the pressure exerted by a player on a club or racket.
A display is disclosed. The grip indicator comprises one or more detectors whose electrical resistance changes when compressed, and a meter and bridge circuit for measuring this change.

US Patent Application No. No. given to Bailey
No. 3,549,878 discloses a light distribution system that distributes a pattern of light over a wearer's clothing. In the exemplary embodiment, plunger-type switches are mounted at various locations on the wearer's shoe. In the case of dance, pressure transmitted to various parts of the shoe actuates these switches. These switches actuate corresponding switches in turn, which controls the amount of current applied to the piezoelectric spiral. Changes in the current applied to this spiral increase the length of the spiral, thereby rotating the tip of the spiral. The rotating action of the spiral chip is used to control the rotation of the polychromatic light filter, which changes the pattern of light produced.

US Patent Application No. 3,582,691 to Sonderegger et al. Discloses a force transducer unit with a piezoelectric element mounted to divide an applied external force into precisely defined partial forces. Disclosure.

US Patent Application No. 1 to Palini
No. 3,582,692 discloses an improved piezoelectric transducer that responds to changes in pressure and a circuit for actuating a lead relay. The transducer comprises a piezoelectric element, a pair of poles on opposite sides of the element, means for supporting the element, and actuator means connected to the element for applying pressure to the element. Is included.

US Patent Application No. 1 to Palini
No. 3,604,958 discloses a transducer for use in a safety device to protect an object from unauthorized removal. It detects both increases and decreases in pressure and provides an output signal indicative of changes in pressure. The transducer includes a piezoelectric element and an actuator for transmitting pressure to the piezoelectric element. When the pressure increases or decreases, the piezoelectric element produces an output signal. This output signal reduces the conductivity of the unidirectional current device and then activates the alarm circuit.

US Patent Application No. No. to Ayers et al.
3,750,127 discloses a piezoelectric detector used as a strain gauge, intrusion detector, or thermal gradient detector. Piezoelectric detectors produce an electrical signal that is proportional to the amount of strain or deformation that is sensed.

US Patent Application No. 3,798,474 to Cassand et al. Discloses a pressure wave detector having a piezoelectric element having two sides. Each side cooperates with a flexible conducting electrode over the length of the sensing element. Detectors may also be used to measure pressure changes resulting from seismic vibrations in the sea or above ground.

US Patent Application No. No. given to Dana, III
Nos. 3,893,247 and 3,946,505 disclose shoes having an illuminated sole and heel portion. The charging circuit and lamp source are located on the heel and / or sole of the shoe. The lamp is turned on and off by a gradient switch and / or a manually activated switch.

US Patent Application No. 3,9 assigned to Sipe
74,491 discloses a device for actuating a buzzer when a predetermined load is applied to the user's foot. The device includes an elastic liquid-filled tube mounted inside the footpad, the tube extending from near the claw end of the footpad to near the heel end. The pressure applied to the liquid compresses the spring that actuates the buzzer when a predetermined pressure is applied.

US Patent Application No. 4,020,572 to Chiaramonte, Jr. discloses a shoe seat with an illuminated sole. The lamp circuit and battery are located in the seat and controlled by a manual switch.

United States Patent Application No. 4,0 assigned to Tanaka
No. 54,808 discloses a vibration sensing device for use in musical instruments to detect vibrations that occur therein. This device has a structure including a piezoelectric ceramic plate housed in a case. U.S. Patent Application No. 4,112,601 to Chiaramonte, Jr. discloses a shoe having a high intensity lamp, a battery, a light regulator, and a filter for emitting a series of colored lights from the lamp. .. This colored light is emitted through a light transmitting material that has a shoe riser.

US Patent Application No. 4,128,861 to Pelengaris discloses a lamp and battery circuit mounted within the heel of a shoe and means for operating a lamp having contacts on the heel of the shoe. A lighted shoe having is disclosed. When applying pressure to the heel, these contacts are pressed together, closing the battery circuit and turning on the lamp.

US Patent Application No. No. given to Powell
No. 4,130,951 is a lighting dance shoe with a flash light attached to the heel and a bundle of optical fibers extending from the flash light through the sole to various points around the edge of the sole. Disclosure. Flash light
It is turned on and off by a spring actuated pressure switch. By placing or tapping your heel on the dance floor,
The switch illuminates a flash of light when the wearer applies pressure to the heel of the shoe.

US Patent Application No. 4,158,117 to Ouilliam et al. Discloses a pressure sensitive switch,
The switch includes a polyvinylidene chloride-fluoride sheet polarized to be piezoelectricized and a manual pushbutton. The push button is pressed to compress the polyvinylidene chloride fluoride sheet, which in turn produces an electrical signal.

US Patent Application No. No. given to Dana, III
No. 4,158,922 discloses a lighted shoe in which a built-in solid state oscillator (or tilt switch) and a battery circuit flash the lamp so as to light the transparent part.

US Pat. No. 4,216,403 to Kremple et al. Discloses a transducer having piezoelectric measuring sensing elements for measuring mechanical values on a hollow body, in particular pressure distribution in a pipe. ..

US Patent Application No. 4,253,253 to McCormick discloses a decorative shoe having a transparent heel with a battery circuit and a lamp. When the lamp is lit, it illuminates the transparent heel.

US Patent Application No. No. to Yelke
4,304,126 discloses a converter for detecting and monitoring fuel injection into a fuel injected engine. The transducer includes a piezoelectric element mounted on the fuel line to detect changes in the outer peripheral area of the line due to pressure surges.

US Pat. No. 4,328,441 to Kroeger, Jr. et al. Discloses a pressure sensitive device for producing an electrical signal on two electrodes. The device includes a conductive layer, a piezoelectric polymer thin film layer, an electrode layer, an insulating layer, another electrode layer, another piezoelectric polymer thin film layer, and another conductive thin film layer. This reference teaches the use of both a high impedance voltage sensing interface circuit and a low impedance voltage sensing interface circuit for processing the signal output by a piezoelectric detector. Wu
U.S. Pat. No. 4,402,147, issued to U.S. Pat. No. 4,402,147, discloses an electronic counter mounted in the toe of a shoe that counts the steps taken by walking. The contact switch that closes when walking one step activates the counter circuit,
Then, the digital display is performed to count up or count down.

US Patent Application No. 4,4,4 assigned to Koal
No. 99,394 discloses a piezoelectric sensor mounted on an animal paw for continuously measuring the pressure of the animal paw on a reaction surface. The detector and associated circuitry is electrically interconnected with the telemetry and analysis equipment.

United States Patent Application No. No. assigned to Johnson
No. 4,510,704 discloses a mechanical or electronic pedometer contained within the heel of a shoe. The pedometer detects when one step is taken and counts and displays all steps taken. In the electronic counting embodiment, the pedometer includes an electronic counting and processing circuit, a battery, a shock transducer (ie piezoelectric element) to trigger the counting, and an electronic display of the total counting.

US Patent Application No. No. to Medler et al.
No. 4,660,305 discloses a tap dance shoe in which a shock detector with a piezoelectric transducer is contained within a tap mounted on the dance shoe. The detector produces an electrical signal when the tap strikes the dance floor. This electrical signal is then transmitted for remote processing and amplification.
US Patent Application No. 4,703,217 to Ratzlaff et al.
The publication discloses a piezoelectric transducer mounted on the horseshoe so that the force generated when the horse's hoof contacts the ground can be measured. The signal from the piezoelectric transducer is
It is amplified and processed by electronic circuitry so that its information content can be stored and used in scientific studies of horse movement patterns.

US Patent Application No. No. given to Tailor
4,748,366 discloses a new use of piezoelectric materials for producing optical effects that are directly supplied from the electrical energy produced by the piezoelectric material. Piezoelectric material is incorporated into the article of manufacture so that electrical energy is delivered to the piezoelectric material by using the product, thereby producing an electrical voltage. This voltage is sent to an optical effect device, which can be activated by the high voltage, low current output of the piezoelectric material. Devices of this type include electroluminescent materials, gas discharge (plasma) panels, neon tubes, and liquid crystal devices. The output of the piezoelectric material is directly connected to the optical effect device. This reference also teaches how to use a layer of piezoelectric effect material to generate the energy needed to activate an optical effect.

US Patent Application No. No. given to Cavanagh
No. 4,771,394 discloses a pair of running shoes having a housing on the heel on which an electronic foot strike counter is removably mounted. The electronic device is cabled to send foot strike counts and running time data to the computer or to cause the computer to pre-program the electronic device with distance data,
This will cause a tone to sound when the given distance is completed. The electronic device includes an inertial switch to generate the foot strike count.

US Patent Application No. 4,814,661 to Ratzlaff et al. Discloses a system for measuring and analyzing the force applied during running or walking.
The system includes piezoelectric detector elements mounted on a plate that may or may not be integrated inside the shoe. During unrestrained motion, all or part of the plantar surface of the human foot is stretched to provide accurate foot force detection.

US Patent Application No. No. given to French
No. 4,824,107 discloses a scoring device for martial arts sports, in which the piezoelectric thin film is attached to a protective device such as headgear, handgear or footgear, protective vest. The piezoelectric film produces an electrical signal with an amplification that corresponds to the force of the airflow or the degree of deformation of the film. The electrical signals may be processed by electronic circuitry to count the number of air blows or to measure the amount of force of each air blow.
The results of this analysis can be displayed on various types of indicators, including light emitting diodes of meters or bars, or else the results can be converted to audible tones.

US Patent Application No. No. to Rogers
No. 4,848,009 discloses footwear having a motion responsive switch, a battery, a timing circuit, and a lamp, preferably a light emitting diode. This reference teaches the use of footwear having a motion-responsive mercury switch that alternates states in response to the motion of the footwear. When the action activates the switch (ON), the timing circuit is activated and the lamp lights. After a predetermined time, the timing circuit extinguishes the lamp and prevents the lamp from re-illuminating until the operational reaction switch is transitioned off and then on. Thus, this reference teaches that the lamp should be turned on again only in response to a change in the placement of the footwear after the timing circuit times out. This reference does not teach lighting the lamp in response to pressure or shock that occurs in a sensor embedded in the athletic shoe.

United States Patent Application No. given to Wixom
No. 4,991,150 describes dynamic mechanical stress with a piezoelectric material in close association with an electroluminescent material that emits light with a brightness proportional to the magnitude and ratio of the change in stress applied to the piezoelectric material. Disclosure. In the preferred embodiment, the electroluminescent material comprises a light emitting diode.

The following is a list of publicly available publications concerning toys such as balls.

United States Patent Application No. No. given to Speech
No. 3,580,575 discloses an impact toy, such as a ball, having a circuit, an impact actuation switch, and a tricolor lamp mounted inside. When impacting a toy, one of the three switches closes and the corresponding lamp lights up.

US Patent Application No. No. given to Meehan
No. 3,610,916 discloses a lightable ball having an inertial switch and a time delay circuit. The ball is transparent and an inertial switch is installed in the ball that triggers a time delay circuit, which then applies battery power to the two lamps. Power is applied by the time delay circuit for a preselected time period.

US Patent Application No. 4,5 issued to Shishido
No. 95,200 discloses a sound producing ball. In one embodiment, external impact forces are detected by piezoelectric detectors that trigger electronic processing and amplification circuits. This circuit then causes the piezoelectric speaker to emit a buzzer or melody tone.

United States Patent Application No. No. assigned to Rumsey
No. 4,737,134 discloses a ball that produces an audible sound corresponding to the amount of light striking a light transducer mounted on the surface of the ball. The oscillator is coupled to the light converter and a speaker for producing sound.

The following is a list of publications that have been published regarding fishing lures.

US Patent Application No. 3,8,3, awarded on Day
28,177 discloses a fishing lure having a battery and a lamp disposed therein. A bundle of optical fibers extends from the lamp to the exterior of the lure to conduct light to the exterior of the lure.

US Patent Application No. 3,940,868 to Northcutt discloses a fishing lure having a battery and a light emitting diode illuminated by a water operated switch.

United States Patent Application No. 4,2, assigned to Fima
Nos. 50,650 and 4,347,681 have one or more lamps,
A fishing lure including a guideway along which the battery rotates as the lure moves. Movement of the battery along the taxiway completes the lamp circuit intermittently and ignites the lamp. The light emitted from these lamps is delivered to the surface of the lure by optical fibers.

US Patent Application No. to Cota et al.
No. 4,741,120 discloses a self-illuminating fishing lure having a constant light source produced by a tritium capsule confined inside a hard transparent fishing lure body.

The publications of foreign countries disclosed in relation to the present invention are listed below.

Italian Patent Application No. 489,219 to Valentino discloses a shoe having an on / off switch and a lamp in the heel to illuminate the heel.

French patent application No. 1,555,306, issued to Deus et al., Has a lamp that illuminates when compressed.
A lighted shoe having a piezoelectric transducer is disclosed.

French Patent Application No. given to Rich
No. 2,227,714 discloses a shoe with a lit heel that has a battery, a mercury switch, a relay circuit, and a lamp that is located inside the heel so that the lamp goes out when the shoe is in a flat position. ing. French Patent Application No. 2,556,190 to Hume et al. Discloses a shoe with a battery-powered flash lamp in the heel. The lamp current passing through the bimetallic switch heats the switch, thereby opening the lamp circuit. The bimetallic switch cools and closes the lamp circuit, which causes the lamp to flash.

Maria De Nijs et al., Dutch Patent Application No. 8,006,456 discloses a battery circuit, a switch, a lamp or a light emitting diode, a colored bead, an optical fiber interconnecting the lamp to the colored bead. ing.

Japanese Patent Application No. 58-Granted to Daito
195328 discloses an electro-mechanical transducer comprising a high polymer thin film having locally piezoelectric properties. This converter is sometimes used as a contactless keyboard.

European Patent Application No. given to Dana III
83 307822.3 discloses a shoe having a lamp or a light emitting diode, a battery circuit, a mercury switch or a mechanically actuated pressure switch for lighting or flashing the lamp. A flasher circuit can be added and manually activated by the wearer. In addition, the flasher circuit and the battery can be enclosed inside.

German Patent Application No. 26 08 485 to Benn-Hassine for turning on and off a battery circuit and a plurality of lamps or light emitting diodes mounted through the surface of the heel of a shoe. A heel of a lighted shoe with a mercury switch is disclosed. Mercury switch
Turn off the lamp when the heel is raised.

International Application No. PCT / AU awarded to Hopper
86/00324 discloses a touch or proximity switch that includes a light emitting diode to visually indicate the on or off state of the switch. Piezoelectric stress detectors may be used to trigger circuits that light light emitting diodes and to trigger solid state switches or transistors.

PCT / AU86 / 003 to Kroeger, Jr. et al.
No. 24 discloses a pressure sensitive device for producing an electrical signal at two electrodes. The device comprises a structure made of conductive layers, piezoelectric polymer thin films, electrode layers, insulating layers, other electrode layers, other piezoelectric polymer thin film layers, and layers containing other conductive layers. Kroeger teaches the use of high impedance interfaces, such as digital gates or differential amplifier circuits, to sense the voltage produced by piezoelectric sensitive detectors.

The other documents disclosed are listed below.

Biomechanic VI in the International Series of Biomechanics, Volume 4B, Proceedings of the 8th International Conference on Biomechanics, held in Nagoya, Japan in 1983.
IB discloses a shoe having an array of piezoelectric transducers embedded in silicone rubber and inserted inside the center sole of the shoe. To study the interaction between the foot and shoe during walking, this transducer is used to obtain force measurements. The device further comprises a backpack containing amplification and multiplexing circuits.

A walking force measuring device by medical and biological engineering and computing for clinical assessment of pathological walking method given to Miyazaki et al. Disclosed is a shoe mountable force transducer in combination with a receiving processor unit for measuring static and dynamic forces acting between the inside foot and the floor.

In 1987, "Complete Guide to Athletic Footwear" by Cheskin, Melvyn P., Fairchild Publishing, New York, page 158, discloses a safety light component that is flushed for use in running shoes. ing. This device can be attached to the heel of the shoe by cement, and functions as a safety device for night running.

None of the above references teach or suggest the invention claimed in the text.

[0060]

According to one aspect of the invention, there is provided a product, preferably athletic shoes or attire, configured to emit light, sound energy or information in response to an impact. The product comprises a molded part having an at least partially embedded battery powered light or sound emitting unit or liquid crystal device. The unit comprises an impact sensing element made of polymeric piezoelectric material, a battery means, a light or sound emitting device or information display device, and a circuit connected to said piezoelectric material. The unit responds to the electrical energy generated upon impact, thus allowing the light or sound emitting device to be energized from the battery or any information display device to be activated.

In one embodiment, the electrical energy generated on each impact is used as a trigger to operate the light or sound emitting unit through a circuit associated therewith, the amount and / or duration of the light or sound emission. Can be independently determined / controlled by proper design of the circuit.

The circuit preferably comprises a monostable circuit, such as a monostable multivibrator, whose time constant determines the energization duration of the light or sound emitting device and is preferably adjustable, for example by means of a variable resistance.

If the product comprises a light emitting device, the device may be a gas emitting lamp such as a light emitting diode (LED) or a neon lamp. Further, the light emitting device may be disposed within the product, and the product may further include fiber optic means optionally arranged to transmit light emitted from the light emitting device to an outer surface of the product. Liquid crystal devices may be used if the product includes an information display device.

The products are preferably shoes, especially running shoes or jogging shoes. The molded part is preferably a unitary sole-heel structure, at least the battery, the circuit, and the light emitting device are located or embedded in the heel portion of the structure, and the light emitting device emits light backwards from the heel portion. Is arranged as. The polymeric piezoelectric material is preferably embedded in the bottom portion of the structure, preferably in the most stressed areas.

Another embodiment of the shoe may include a plurality of light emitting devices located at points on the upper outer surface of the shoe or connected to the points by respective optical fibers. .. These light emitting devices can be selectively energized in a predetermined order, for example in response to a predetermined number of consecutive groups or groupings of shocks sensed by the shock sensing element.

In a further embodiment, the circuit is responsive to the amount of electrical energy produced by the piezoelectric material and selectively energizes one or more light emitting devices depending on the amount of electrical energy produced. In this way, a visual indication of the amount of pressure exerted on the sole of the shoe can be provided.

In another embodiment, the light emitting devices may be arranged in a bar graph display. This embodiment is particularly suitable for use as an athletic shoe in a series of different exercises, as different light emitting devices, possibly colored differently, can be energized for different exercises.

According to another aspect of the invention, the shoe comprises a plurality of light emitting devices and, in addition to or instead of the piezoelectric material, temperature sensing means responsive to the temperature within the shoe. In this embodiment, the circuit additionally or selectively responds to the temperature sensing means to selectively energize the light emitting device to provide an indication of the temperature within the shoe. Thus, the light emitting device may have different colors, the first color (eg green) representing the normal temperature and the second color (eg orange) representing the somewhat higher and / or lower temperature and the third. Of colors (eg red) represent higher and / or lower temperatures and the devices may be arranged in a linear array.

In yet another embodiment, in addition or in the alternative, the circuit is preset with at least one light emitting device independent of the piezoelectric material to provide pacewear functionality to the wearer of the shoe. Or energize at a programmable rate. Advantageously, the circuit is also responsive to and programmable by the electrical energy produced by the piezoelectric material to assist the wearer of the shoe by compensating for any differences in the actual pace as compared to the initially programmed pace rate. Change the rate.

Alternatively, a shoe having a plurality of light emitting devices can be combined with a plurality of impact sensing elements distributed over the sole of the shoe. That is, the circuit is responsive to the relative stress sensed by each impact sensing element to provide weight distribution or suspension to the sole of the shoe, compression, cushioning energy return and / or an indication of impact to the surface of the shoe. Energize the light emitting device. This embodiment can provide useful information regarding the style or angle of foot-ground contact of the athletic athlete, gymnast or dancer wearing it, thus training for athletics, gymnastics, or dance. Especially suitable for shoes.

In another embodiment, a shoe that includes one or more shock-sensing elements that may be distributed throughout the sole, a battery, and information processing circuitry connected to the shock-sensing element has a liquid crystal display. Respond to a shock by displaying appropriate information on an information display device such as (LCD).

According to another aspect of the present invention, a shoe including an impact sensing element made of a polymeric piezoelectric material, a battery, a light emitting device, and a circuit connected to the impact sensing element is subjected to impact by energizing the light emitting device. react. The fiber optic means is arranged to transmit the light emitted by the light emitting means to the outer surface of the shoe, preferably the upper surface (ie the surface visible when the sole is flat on the ground).

Thus, the optical fiber means may comprise a single optical fiber, at least a portion of which surrounds the upper outer surface of the shoe, the portion having a plurality of notches each emitting light. The notches may be colored, for example with different colored transparent inks or dyes so that the emitted light is colored accordingly.

Alternatively, the optical fiber means may comprise a bundle of optical fibers that direct the light emitted by each fiber to different points on the upper outer surface of the shoe. For example, if the shoe has a tongue, at least some of the fibers may terminate in the free end of the tongue. These dots may form an abstract or geometric light pattern, or a logo or one or more alphabetic characters that make up, for example, the trademark of the shoe manufacturer. The fiber ends at these various points may be colored, for example, with different colored transparent inks or dyes.

The article may also be a fishing lure where the optical fibers carry the emitted light to different points on the outer surface of the lure.

The article may also be arranged such that at least its radial outer regions are embedded in a transparent polymeric material, both arranged to be simultaneously energized by a circuit and generally emitting light in opposite directions. It may be a ball including two light emitting devices arranged in the.

[0077]

The present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

The shoe 210 shown in FIG. 1 has a unitary sole-heel structure 212 attached to the upper 214 by molding or other means. The sole and heel structure 212 is molded and attached to the upper using methods well known to those skilled in the art.

A piezoelectric impact sensor 218 comprising sheets and layers of polymerized piezoelectric material is provided in the sole 216 of the sole-heel structure 212.
It is preferably placed near the point of maximum stress (ie, near the toe ball or heel of the wearer's foot) or attached by molding. The piezoelectric shock sensor 218 is preferably made of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) that is disoriented and electrically polarized to enhance its piezoelectric properties. Such materials are known to those skilled in the art. Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, the piezoelectric shock sensor 218 is an electrical circuit.
Connected to 220, the circuit 220 has a battery pack, preferably a mercury, silver oxide, or lithium battery, and is molded into the heel 224 of the sole-heel structure 212.

Referring to FIG. 3, the circuit 220 includes a light emitting diode (LED) 2 when triggered by a piezoelectric shock sensor.
Excites 26. The light emitting diode 226 may be placed within the heel 224 or mounted by molding so as to emit light rearwardly from the heel 224.

In use, each time the wearer of the shoe 210 walks, runs, jogs, or moves, the sole 216 of the sole-heel structure 212 impacts the ground, that is, each step or stride of the wearer. Each time, the piezoelectric shock sensor 218 generates a pulse of electrical energy due to the piezoelectric effect. Each pulse of electrical energy triggers a monostable circuit 256, such as a multivibrator circuit in circuit 220.

Triggering the monostable circuit 256 causes the light emitting diode 226 to light for a time determined by the resistor 258 and the capacitor 260. The resistor 258 can be variable or fixed and can be used to preselect the length of time that the light emitting diode 226 is illuminated.

During use, a flash of light is emitted backward from the heel of the shoe 210. Thus, for each stride, the wearer of the shoe 210 can be clearly seen from behind by the flash of light emitted rearward, which is particularly important for road runners and jogger safety, especially in low light conditions. There are great advantages in terms of.

In another embodiment, the circuit is molded or encapsulated with one or more batteries and light emitting diodes. Piezoelectric shock sensors can be mounted on either surface of the case and mounted so that the light emitting diodes are visible from the back of the shoe or from some point along the circumference of the shoe. In a variation of this embodiment, the light emitting diode may be extended via a wire to the sole, heel or instep of the upper of the shoe, with the encapsulated circuit, battery and impact sensor located at the maximum impact area. Get burned. A plurality of these devices can be placed throughout the shoe.

In yet another embodiment of the shoe, the circuit is modified to operate other devices such as an electronic pedometer. In this embodiment, the circuit responds to shocks sensed by the piezoelectric shock sensor that exceed a certain size or preset value, such as when the shoe wearer is actually walking or running. Impacts above this preset value move the digital display, which counts steps or strides.

FIG. 3 shows a schematic diagram of the circuit 220. Circuit 22
0 is the control input for the piezoelectric shock sensor 218 and monostable 256
254 having a pair of inputs 252 electrically coupled thereto.
The monostable circuit 256 is a timing circuit having a resistor 258 (variable or fixed) and a capacitor 260, a battery pack 222.
And a power supply input connected to the light emitting diode 226 and an output 262 connected to the light emitting diode 226. Adjusting or selecting the value of resistor 258 determines the duration that monostable circuit 256 causes light emitting diode 226 to light in response to each impact sensed by piezoelectric impact sensor 218.

FIG. 10 illustrates another monostable multivibrator 320 that may be incorporated into the article of the present invention. In this embodiment, the piezoelectric sensor generates a voltage trigger or pulse due to the impact stress when the shoe hits the ground. The trigger is given to the input 352 of monostable multivibrator chip 328 crosses the resistor R _s. By triggering the input,
The output of chip 328 is output 35 via the current limiting resistor R _o.
Turn on the light emitting diode 326 connected to 6 and discharge the capacitor. The value of the resistor Ro is the light emitting diode 326
Are selected to maximize the brightness of.

When the output of chip 328 is triggered to turn on light emitting diode 326, capacitor C _T begins to charge via resistor R _T. When the voltage across capacitor C _T at input 354 reaches, for example, about two-thirds of the battery voltage value, chip 328 is reset and light emitting diode 326 is turned off. The length of time for the capacitor C _T to charge to two-thirds of the battery voltage is R-C selected by the values used for the resistor R _T and the capacitor C _T.
Determined from a constant.

When the chip 328 is reset, the chip 32
8 returns to rest. In the quiescent state, the capacitor C _T fully charges to the battery voltage value and a minimum current flows through the light emitting diode 326. This quiescent circuit thus maintains a minimum current for maximum battery life.

The value selected for the resistor R _s controls the sensitivity of the piezoelectric shock sensor 318. Different values change the loading and control the magnitude of the trigger voltage applied to the chip 328. The value selected for the resistor _Ro is the light emitting diode 32.
Controls the current through 6. This resistance value depends on the amount of current required to obtain optimum brightness of the battery 322 and the light emitting diode 326.

FIG. 11 graphically illustrates the waveforms generated by the circuit of FIG. 10 and the on / off times of the light emitting diode 326.
In the quiescent state without any shock, the voltage applied to the input 352 of the chip 328 is at a minimum level 352A. When the piezoelectric shock sensor 318 senses a shock or similar stress, the sensor 318 produces a voltage peak. When this peak is determined by selecting an appropriate value for resistor R _s and when it exceeds a preselected level 352 B, the input 352 of chip 328 is triggered to change the state of the monostable multivibrator. To be done.

In the quiescent state, the capacitor C _T is charged to the voltage of the battery 322. At this time, the static input 35 of FIG.
Input 354 is held "high" as indicated by 4A. By triggering chip 328, capacitor C
_T discharges rapidly to the input "low" level 354C. At this point, the capacitor C _T begins charging via the timing resistor R _T. When the voltage across capacitor C _T reaches, for example, about two-thirds of the battery voltage, a "high" voltage on this input resets chip 328 and turns off light emitting diode 326.

Thus, when the input signal from the piezoelectric shock sensor 318 exceeds the trigger input level 352 B, the chip 32
8 turns on the light emitting diode 326 by outputting the output "low" level 356B. The capacitor C _T is re-discharged to reset the input "high" level 354 B,
Chip 328 turns off light emitting diode 326 by outputting an output "high" level 356A.

FIG. 12 shows an embodiment of another circuit in which the RS (reset-set) latch circuit 420 can be incorporated in a shoe, for example. This embodiment has the advantages of low cost, minimum size, and minimum power consumption such that battery life is extended. In this embodiment, the impact of the piezoelectric sensor 418 is RC
Used to trigger the RS latch that turns on the light emitting diode 426 for a time determined by the time constant.

When an impact, such as when a shoe hits the ground, is sensed by the piezoelectric impact sensor 418 shown in FIG. 12, the sensor 418 produces a small amount of current through the sensitive resistor R1.
Voltage drop or NAND gates N1 and N2
Apply the signal to point 1 of the R-S latch with.

Selection of various values for the sensitivity resistor R1 is used to adjust the sensitivity of the circuit. Using a low resistance value for R1 requires a large current through R1 to generate a signal large enough to trigger the RS latch,
Therefore, it reduces the sensitivity of the circuit 420 to the signal generated by the shock sensor 418. Similarly, the larger resistance value used for R1, the greater the signal, the impact sensor 41
Since it is generated for the predetermined current generated by 8,
Improves sensitivity.

When the impact sensor 418 senses an impact in this way, the signal generated by the sensor 418 causes the input voltage applied to the point 1 of the NAND gate N1 of the RS latch to become a low level. The output of the NAND gate N1 becomes high level, and this high level level is the NAND gate N of the RS latch.
Set the output of 2 to low level.

The low output of the NAND gate N2 makes the output of the inverter N3 high level, and the transistor switch Q1
Turn on. Turning on the transistor switch Q1 causes a current to flow in the collector branch of this transistor, turning on the light emitting diode 426. In this way the piezoelectric sensor
The shock sensed by 418 sets the RS latch, turning on the light emitting diode 426 via transistor Q1.

Resistor R for limiting the current of the light emitting diode
The value of 3 is determined by the current required to produce the optimum brightness level of light emitting diode 426. Therefore, the value of resistor R3 depends on the required current, the battery voltage, and the voltage drop across light emitting diode 426 and transistor Q1 as the current flows through the collector circuit of transistor switch Q1.

Referring to FIG. 12, a bias resistor may be inserted in the base-emitter circuit of transistor Q1 to limit the base-emitter current, thereby preserving battery life. In other embodiments, resistor R4 may be omitted to conserve space even when battery life is reduced. For example, the light emitting diode 426 has 20 to 25 mA.
Current flows to the base-emitter of the transistor switch Q1 without a bias resistor from 2 to 2.5 mA, the drain current increases when the transistor switch Q1 is turned on, resulting in about 10% battery life. Is shortened. NAND of RS latch
Light emitting diode when the output of the gate N2 is low level
With 426 turned on, a low output is simultaneously applied to the RC timing circuit consisting of resistor R2 and capacitor C1. This low output causes capacitor C1 of the RC timing circuit (which is already charged to battery voltage) to discharge through timing resistor R2 and NAND gate N2. When the charge of the capacitor C1 drops to, for example, half the battery voltage, this low input signal causes
, The output of the NAND gate N2 goes high again. Therefore, the RS latch is reset, the transistor switch Q1 is turned off, and the light emitting diode 426
Is turned off and the RC timing circuit is recharged to battery voltage via NAND gate N2. In one embodiment, the circuit 420 uses CMOS technology with an input threshold of about half the supply voltage. Due to the use of CMOS technology, the natural trigger threshold of the NAND gate N2 and RC
It provides an ideal match with the trigger input generated by the discharge of the timing circuit capacitor C1. In addition, the use of low power CMOS devices extends battery life.

The RS latch reset circuit 420 is reset to a quiescent state so that the NAND gate N1 of the RS latch can again respond to the shock signal from the piezoelectric shock sensor 418. The length of time that the RS latch holds the light emitting diode 426 on is determined by the RC latch timing circuit of resistor R2 and capacitor C1. By changing the value of either of these elements, the length of time that the RS latch holds the light emitting diode 426 on can be reduced or increased.

The signal generated by the shock sensor 418 is ignored by the NAND gate N1 of the RS latch while the RS latch is set, ie, holding the light emitting diode 426 on.

FIG. 13 shows another embodiment of the shoe of the invention incorporating the circuits described below. The shoe 710 in this embodiment includes a number of light emitting devices, such as light emitting diodes 728-736, one or more shock sensors 718, a temperature sensor 738, and suitable circuitry 720 for processing shock and temperature information. In this shoe, to turn on a light emitting device, such as light emitting diode 728-736 to display a bar graph, as shown in Figure 14,
Alternatively, in order to use the impact force to light an individual light emitting diode or to illuminate the mouth of the mouth, a circuit 721 for processing impact information and using this information is used.

The use of a temperature responsive circuit capable of processing temperature information to graphically display the temperature via a light emitting diode is also within the scope of this and other embodiments of the invention. It is inside.

Referring to FIG. 13, the shoe 710 has a sole-heel structure.
Piezoelectric shock sensor 718 and temperature sensor 738
And a circuit 720 for processing the signals received from these sensors. Light emitting diode 728-736
Is built in the vicinity of the toe part of the upper part 714 of the shoe 710. These light emitting diodes are typically arranged so that the wearer can see them while walking or running. Similarly, the light emitting diode 726 may be attached to the heel 724 of the shoe 710, facing backwards so that it may be seen by a car approaching from behind or an individual.

Referring to FIG. 14, the circuit 720 of FIG.
Shoe 710 processes the information generated by sensors 718 and 738, as well as the light emitting diode 72 built into shoe 710.
6-736 shows functional circuits that can be used to control the 6-736.

Referring to FIG. 14, the light emitting diode 728 −
A microprocessor 780 is included in circuit 720 to preprogram the control of the 736 and / or to evaluate the inputs from the shock sensor 718 and / or the temperature sensor 738 to illuminate the appropriate light emitting device (718-736). Be done.
Also, audible sound generating means (not shown) may be included in place of or in addition to the light emitting device.

The circuit 720 can process either of the following input signals:

(1) Piezoelectric impact sensor 71 for turning on the light emitting diode 726 and various light emitting diodes 728 to 736 to indicate the impact force received by the shoe.
8 or (2) A temperature sensor 738 for lighting various light emitting diodes, such as light emitting diodes 728-736, to indicate various temperature levels in the shoe.

The circuit 720 of FIG. 14 is powered by the battery pack 722. Circuit 720 has the input of a piezoelectric shock sensor 718, which is applied to a differentiating circuit 770 and a three-state switching circuit 774 which selects one of three inputs to drive a ladder network 776. It Ladder network 776
Has five outputs, each output corresponding to a higher output voltage. Each of these outputs passes through a threshold circuit 778 to a first light emitting diode 728;
0; third light emitting diode 732; fourth light emitting diode 734
And a suitable light emitting diode such as the fifth light emitting diode 736. Switch circuit 774 is differentiating circuit 77
The greater the impact pressure on the piezoelectric impact sensor 718, the higher the differential circuit 77
The voltage at the 0 output is greater. This higher voltage will increase the number of active outputs that will cause the threshold circuit 778 to have the appropriate number of light emitting diodes 728, 730, 73.
Turn on 2, 734 or 736. Thus, by activating one to five of these light emitting diodes, a bar graph representation of the impact pressure is seen on the toe area of the upper 714 of shoe 710 (see FIG. 13).

The switch circuit 774 can also be set to connect the temperature sensor 738 to the input of the ladder network 776. In this case, a bar graph representation of temperature is provided to the wearer of shoe 710 near the instep region of sole 716 (FIG. 13).
reference). The temperature sensor 738 may be used with a National Semiconductor type LM35 temperature sensor 738, a thermistor, a temperature sensing diode, or the like, and an amplifier if necessary. Temperature sensors can be mounted in various areas within the shoe structure to provide a bar graph representation of temperature in adjacent areas.

As a variation of the temperature bar graph display, the light emitting diodes are of different colors, eg light emitting diode 728
Red; light emitting diode 730 Orange; light emitting diode 73
2 Green; Light-emitting diode 734 Orange; Light-emitting diode 636 Red; Other, may be made up of: green lit to indicate normal temperature, orange lit to indicate higher or lower temperature than normal temperature , Red is lit to indicate higher and / or lower temperatures.

The switching circuit 774 can also be set to connect the output of the programmable microprocessor 780 to the ladder network 776 via the digital-to-analog (D / A) converter 782. To generate a series of digital pulses that are converted to analog trigger signals via a digital-to-analog (D / A) converter 782 and applied to a ladder network 776 via a switching circuit 774, for example, Inserted or masked ROM (read-only memory element) or PROM
The microprocessor 780 is pre-programmed by (programmable ROM) means (not shown) or other means. Microprocessor 780 controls the amplitude and frequency of the signal produced by digital-to-analog (D / A) converter 782. Thus, the microprocessor 780 allows one or more light emitting diodes at a selected speed to set a desired pace or series of paces (pacing mode) for a given distance to walk, run or compete. Turn on / light up 728, 730, 732, 734, and 736.

The switching circuit 774 can be manually switched between the three inputs by manual switching means (not shown) or, for example, all two or three inputs of various inputs such as shock, temperature and pace. It is possible to cycle between.

Many variations are made to the described embodiments of the invention. For example, in pace mode, additional circuitry may be added to allow the microprocessor to sense the actual pace by utilizing the shock sensed by the piezoelectric shock sensor. The microprocessor can adjust the pattern displayed by the light emitting diodes to correct the deficiency or excess between the initial pace and the actual pace. In yet another embodiment, the switching circuit 774 cycles between the microprocessor 780 for displaying the pace set and the temperature sensor 738 to provide a visual alert if the sensed temperature in the shoe is extremely high. Operate.

In a variant (not shown) similar to the embodiment of FIGS. 13 and 14, the shoe comprises one or more piezoelectric shock sensors and / or one or more temperature sensors, for example. An input sensor, an interface circuit for connecting these sensors to a microprocessor, a microprocessor for processing information and controlling various output devices via an output control circuit, an information display device such as a liquid crystal display, It comprises a light or sound emitting device such as one or more light emitting diodes. In addition to processing information from the input sensors, the microprocessor can provide programmed control of various output devices.

Many additional variations are made to the described embodiments of the invention. For example, FIG. 5 shows a piezoelectric sensor 418.
, A latch circuit 420 such as any of the circuits described above, including a battery and a light emitting diode 426 formed as a single capsule unit removably fitted in a shoe heel 424, or the like. Showing athletic shoes. The light emitting diode 426 of the encapsulation unit is arranged to emit the light rearward by transmitting the light emitted from the light emitting diode 426 through the optical fiber 476 to a point on the outer surface 474 of the heel 424.

Further referring to FIG. 5, an optical fiber 476
Alternatively, other light guiding means (eg, a layer of a suitable transparent plastic material) may be molded into the shoe 410 to direct the light emitted by the light emitting diodes 426 to different outer surfaces of the shoe, such as the heel 424. To the rearward exit point 474 or one or more ribs 472 while extending vertically above and below the heel or in a loop around the front portion of upper 414. This embodiment provides easy replacement of capsules when the battery is dead or when one color LED is to be replaced with another color LED.

As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, optionally, at least some of the fiber optic bundles run around the upper portion 414 of the front of the shoe and are distributed over its length. It is replaced by a single optical fiber 476 having a notch 478. Light emitting diode from each notch 478
426 lights are emitted. The notch 478 and the outer surface point 474 of the shoe are colored, for example with different clear inks or dyes, to produce various multicolor effects.

Referring now to FIG. 4, another embodiment of the shoe 310 is an LED 32 used with a fiber optic bundle 370.
6, each fiber 372 being one or more of which the light from the LEDs 326 is interspersed with light from the LEDs 326, for example in an abstract or geometric pattern over the front upper of the shoe, or which constitutes a logo or trademark of the shoe manufacturer. Is adjustable to communicate with each point 374 on the outer surface of the shoe that is studded to form an alphanumeric character.

Still referring to FIG. 4, the piezoelectric shock sensor 31
8 can be worn on the heel and other impact sensitive areas. circuit
The 320 has a monostable multivibrator circuit and a battery. The signal from the shock sensor 318 activates the circuit 320, which then turns on the LED 326 for a period of time determined by an internally incorporated resistive capacitor time constant.
Light up.

In another embodiment, shown in FIG. 8, shoe 610 has a plurality of light emitting devices mounted therein. The light emitted by the LED 680 is transmitted through the optical fiber 682 to a plurality of points on the outer surface of the shoe. In this embodiment, piezoelectric shock sensor 618 activates circuit 620. Circuit 620 can then be designed to light all LEDs 680 or, alternatively, selectively light or flash various LEDs 680 sequentially or randomly or in other patterns.

A modification of this embodiment is to incorporate a circuit such as a counter or a gate circuit for counting continuous impacts detected by the piezoelectric impact sensor. Based on these counts, the circuit sequentially lights consecutive LEDs at different locations on the shoe. For example, when the count reaches a certain number, the LED selected by the circuit is turned on, for example, 10 times.
Flash the circuit 20 times or so, and as soon as the next predetermined count value is reached, the circuit turns on one or more other LEDs for a certain period of time or a predetermined number of flashes in a sequential or irregular manner or in a certain predetermined order. / Or flash.

Such a variant can be used to assist and / or direct a series of different practice timings with LEDs of different colors that have different light patterns, possibly selected for practice, and thus are particularly useful for practice shoes. It is useful.

Another variation of this embodiment is to analyze the signal generated by the shock sensed by the piezoelectric shock sensor and then based on this information information such as an LCD connected to a microprocessor or count output circuit. Incorporating a microprocessor or counting circuit to display counts and other information for processing on a display device.

Referring to FIG. 7, yet another embodiment of the present invention is described, wherein the shoe 510 comprises a plurality of LEs.
In addition to D, a plurality of individual piezoelectric shock sensors 518A-518D distributed throughout the sole 516 of the shoe 510 may also be incorporated. In this embodiment, circuit 520 is designed to illuminate one or more LEDs 580-586 to reflect the relative pressure sensed by piezoelectric shock sensor 518 to provide an indication of weight distribution in the sole. By the above, track and field athletes,
Excellent training aids are formed, especially for runners, gymnasts and dancers, the performance of athletics, gymnasts or dancers is projected on a video camera and the film is played back in slow motion. It will be very effective if.

In embodiments of shoes that include fiber optic bundles, one or more LEDs may be omitted if desired, and the effect of the LEDs is achieved using ambient light. Thus, the fiber optic bundle acts as a collection of light, such that, for example, the "input" end of the fiber optic bundle is generally located forward and upward in the front of the shoe facing its corresponding Ambient light often illuminates the "output" end of an optical fiber when the "output" end is located at the heel and is distributed rearward and to form, for example, the alphanumeric characters that make up the logo or trademark. It's enough to make you look like you're doing. It is also possible, if desired, to create a multicolor effect as described above.

15-24 show a preferred embodiment of the shoe of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 15, a shoe 810 has a light unit 840 incorporated into its base end 830. Shoes 810 has a bottom 81
6, insole 812, upper 814, base (or heel) end 830, end (or toe) 832 and light unit 840. The light unit 840 includes a lens 842 on which a name or logo may be imprinted. When an internally mounted light emitting unit, such as the LED 826 shown in Figure 22, is turned on, the logo or printed matter is illuminated and is visible from behind the shoe.

The lens 842 allows the lens and / or the printed matter to be illuminated in various colors and / or qualities to enhance the visibility from the back and to enhance the image of all printed matter on the shoe. It is also possible to include semi-transparent or color or filter materials.

The placement of the components within the preferred shoe may be done in any suitable manner. Referring to FIGS. 15 and 16A, a piezoelectric shock sensor 818 is placed at the heel base end 830 and covered by a heel cushion or liner 834.
The sensor 818 is electrically connected to an electronic capsule placed on the insole 812. The electronic capsule 850 may be mounted in any other orientation than the orientation shown. This electronic capsule contains the circuitry and battery pack necessary to process the signal generated on the sensor 818 due to the impact. If the signal is generated by a sensor 818 that has a magnitude sufficient to be sensed by the circuitry of the capsule 850, this circuitry will illuminate an LED 826 that is electrically connected to the capsule 850 via lead 828.

Referring to FIG. 16B, a piezoelectric shock sensor 818A.
Is located at the base end 830 of the heel. This shock sensor 818A
Is first covered with patch 833 and then the patch is further covered with heel portion or liner 834. The sensor 818A is electrically connected to the electronic capsule 850 placed on the insole 812. The electronic capsule 850 may be mounted not only in the orientation shown, but in any other orientation. This electronic capsule contains the circuitry and battery pack necessary to process the signal generated on the sensor 818A due to the impact. If the signal is generated by a sensor 818A having a magnitude sufficient to be sensed by the circuitry of the capsule 850, this circuitry will illuminate an LED 826 that is electrically connected to the capsule 850 via lead 828A. The electronic capsule 850 may be insert molded to include the battery, circuit board and electronic components to provide the capsule 850 with mechanical and environmental integrity.

Referring to FIG. 17A, a piezoelectric shock sensor 818.
The heel 838 may be placed on a cushion pad 836, such as an encapsulated silicone gel cushion pad. The cushion pad may include a plurality of dividers that direct the semi-fluid from one portion of the cushion to the other.

In FIG. 17A, the piezoelectric shock sensor 818 is placed on the cushion pad 836 to increase the magnitude of the signal generated by the sensor. In this embodiment, when an impact force is applied to the impact sensor 818 as indicated by the downward arrow, the impact sensor 818 is further deformed as the cushion pad 836 is lowered. Since the magnitude of the signal generated by the piezoelectric shock sensor 818 is directly related to the amount of deformation applied to this sensor, the "elasticity" of the cushion pad is such that the sensor 818 is mounted on a harder surface under the same shock force. The sensor 818 is deformed more than it is. Therefore, for the same impact force, the greater the deformation that occurs in the cushion pad, the greater the signal generated by sensor 818.

FIG. 17B shows another embodiment in which the sensor 818A is placed on the cushion pad 836 to enhance the magnitude of the signal generated by the piezoelectric shock sensor 818A. When an impact force is applied to the impact sensor 818A as indicated by the downward arrow, the cushion sensor 836 lowers and the impact sensor 818A is further deformed. Since the magnitude of the signal generated by the piezoelectric shock sensor 818A is directly related to the amount of deformation applied to this sensor, the "elasticity" of the cushion pad is such that the sensor 818A can be mounted on a harder surface under the same shock force. The sensor 818A is deformed more than when it is present. Therefore,
The greater the deformation produced by the cushion pad for the same impact force, the greater the signal generated by sensor 818A. The signal generated by sensor 818A is transmitted to electronic capsule 850 via conductor 828A. Figure 17B shows the bottom
The electronic capsule is shown with the base mounted flush with the upper surface of the 816. This base and the combined impact sensor 818A are covered with a patch 833. Patch 833
It is further covered by the heel part 834.

Still referring to FIG. 17B, a piezoelectric shock sensor.
The 818A is placed on a cushion pad 836, which may be an encapsulated silicone gel cushion pad placed on the heel 838. The cushion pad may include a plurality of partitions that direct the semi-fluid from one portion of the cushion to the other. The cushion pad is typically covered with a GEL cap 835. Window composition 83
The 7 is typically placed under a gel buffer 836.

FIG. 18A shows an LED lead wire used in the electronic capsule 850, the piezoelectric shock sensor 818 and the shoe 810 of FIG.
828 is a partial exploded view of the preferred embodiment of the present invention showing 828. FIG. The electronic capsule 850 may be mounted in any other orientation than the illustrated orientation. In this embodiment, the piezoelectric film sheet is connected to the non-conductive flexible sheet 860. Conductive wires are placed on this flexible sheet and electrically connect the signal output from the sensor 818 to the circuit board 864. Conductive wires are also disposed on the flexible sheet 860 to electrically connect the output from the circuit board 864 to the LED leads 828. The conductive lines can also be printed on a flexible sheet (not shown).

FIG. 18B shows an LED used in the electronic capsule 850, the piezoelectric shock sensor 818A and the shoe 810 of FIG. 16B.
FIG. 8 is a partial exploded view of another preferred embodiment of the present invention showing lead 828A. The electronic capsule 850 may be mounted not only in the orientation shown, but in any other orientation. In this example, the piezoelectric film sheet is connected to the non-conductive flexible sheet 860A. Conductive lines are deposited or printed on the top or bottom of this flexible sheet 860A to electrically connect the signal output from sensor 818A to circuit board 864. Conductive wires are also deposited or printed on the flexible sheet 860A to electrically connect the output from the circuit board 864 to the LED 826 of FIG. 16B via the LED lead 828A. The electronic capsule 850 shown in this embodiment is mounted with a flat lip 876 on the base 852 that is flush with the upper surface of the sole.

The circuit used is of a reduced size so that it can be operated for a long time with only two batteries in series with the circuit and the LED. In one test, 790,000 flashes of LEDs were achieved using only standard watch batteries.

Furthermore, a circuit such as that shown in FIG. 12, for example, is designed so that when the LED is not lit or flashing, the current, or power consumption, is very low. Such low power consumption eliminates the need for on / off switches in the circuit to prolong battery life.

As an alternative configuration, solar cells or arrays of solar cells and / or rechargeable batteries are used instead of batteries.

Referring to FIG. 18A or FIG. 18B, the electronic capsule 850 includes a tongue portion 862 of the flexible sheet 860 or 860A.
, A circuit board 864 and one or more batteries 822 form a closed encapsulation. The base of the capsule 852 has a slot 856 into which the tongue 862 penetrates to reach the interior of the capsule 850 that electrically connects the circuit board 864 to the conductive lines deposited on the flexible sheet 860 or 860A. The electronic capsule 850 may be mounted not only in the orientation shown, but in any other orientation.

Threads 872 on the base 852 mate with corresponding threads on the cap 866 (not shown in FIG. 18) and together with the sealing ring 858 allow the capsule 850 to be sealed. This seal can also be a waterproof seal. The entire capsule can optionally be encapsulated, for example in a polymer, to ensure a watertight seal and to prevent tampering with the circuitry it encloses.

Inside the electronic capsule 850, a contact spring 854 mounted on a base 852 is included. The contact spring 854 electrically connects the outer case of the battery 822 to the circuit board 864.

A cross-sectional view of the assembled electronic capsule 850 is shown in FIG. The electronic capsule 850, when assembled, includes a lower sealing ring 858 that rests on the lip 876 of the base 852, with the ring 863 of the flexible sheet 860 (or 860A not shown) fitted over the base 852 and In contact with the upper surface of the lower sealing ring 858, the tongue 862 is fitted through the slot 856, the upper sealing ring 858 rests on the base 826 and contacts the upper surface of the ring 863. A circuit board 864 and one or more batteries 822 are located in the central space 878 of the base 852, the contact springs 854 are fitted in slots formed in the sides of the base 852, and the cap 866.
Is screwed into the screw thread 872 of the base and engages with the screw thread.

A grip 868 is formed on the cap 866 to grip the cap and loosen when accessing internal components. Therefore, the battery, circuit board or flexible sheet, and shock sensor can be easily replaced.

The capsule has a base 852 and a flexible sheet 860.
(Or 860A not shown) is sealed by compressing the upper and lower sealing rings 858 between the ring 863 and the cap 866. Mouthpiece threads 872 mate with cap threads 870. The lengths of these threads are designed to apply suitable pressure to ring 863 and sealing ring 858 to ensure that moisture, sweat, bacteria, dust and / or dirt do not penetrate electronic capsule 850.

Generally two batteries 822 are used in series to provide power to operate the circuit and one or more light emitting devices. The outer case of the upper battery, the cathode 823, is electrically connected to the circuit board 864 by physical contact with the contact spring 854. The anode 824 of the upper battery is in electrical and physical contact with the cathode 823 of the lower battery 822. The anode 824 of the lower battery 822 is in physical and electrical contact with the circuit board 864.

Conductive wire 862L and flexible sheet 860 (or 860A not shown) deposited or printed on tongue 862 make electrical contact to circuit board 864, resulting in piezoelectric shock sensor 818 (or 818A not shown). ), LED lead 828 (or 828A not shown) and LED 826 are connected to circuitry located on circuit board 864. Circuit board 864 may be wedged to ensure proper electrical connection.

FIG. 20 is a plan view of the cap 866 of the electronic capsule 850. Figure 21 shows a cap screwed into base 852
Sealing ring 85 that encloses 866 and the flexible sheet 860 in between
FIG. 9 is a side view of an electronic capsule 850 including 8.

The curved surface of the cap 866 with the flat top grip 868 ensures that the capsule is not cracked, damaged or damaged by a sudden impact on the wearer of the shoe, and Is designed to maximize the strength of the capsule so that it does not jump out of or protrude from the cavity. Further, a plurality of evenly spaced grips near the top circumference of the cap allow the cap to be easily loosened to facilitate replacement and / or repair of internal components.

FIG. 22 shows the critical angle involved in positioning the LED 826 in the light chamber 844 of the light unit 840 shown in FIGS. 16A and 17A. In this embodiment, LED 826 is positioned to maximize the light energy striking lens 842 so as to maximize the light or image projected on the back of the shoe.

The heel portion (heel counter) of the shoe without adding an excessive and protruding bulky portion to the light chamber and the LED.
Considerable effort has been devoted to finding the best angle for placing the LED in the light chamber so as to maximize the light transmitted from the lens while snapping in. Figure 22
Figure 24 shows the solution to this problem.

FIG. 23 shows a light chamber 844 and a lens 842.
16 is a partial cutaway interior view and partial sectional view (phantom view) of the heel portion of the shoe of FIG. 15 showing the angle and spatial position of the LED 826 and LED lead wire 828 relative to FIG.

FIG. 24 is a sectional side view of the heel portion of FIG.
The side view further illustrates the positioning of LED 826 with respect to light chamber 844 and lens 842.

The design of the light chamber provides uniform illumination of the LED 842 by the LED 826 without mounting the LED 826 directly behind the lens 842, ie at right angles to the lens. As is clear from FIG. 22, LE
Centerline 826C _L of D is offset angle of the center line 844C _L from A1 of the optical chamber. In one embodiment, these centerlines in the plan view are offset by 4 mm to achieve maximum illumination of lens 842 while minimizing the bulk of the light chamber in the shoe heel counter.

Referring to FIG. 24, the heel counter reference line 84
Minimizing the centerline 848 offset with respect to 9 is an important factor in minimizing the bulkiness of the heel counter 839. With an angle A2 of about 15 degrees, the bulkiness of the heel counter 839 is minimized when the light chamber 844 is incorporated into a shoe. If the light chamber is placed higher than the heel 838,
This results in an external heel shape that is unnecessarily large, an unacceptable angle to lens 842 to provide acceptable rear visibility, and a light chamber that is over-protruded from the heel.

In another embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. 2, the ball 930 is molded from a semitransparent synthetic rubber material around a central cavity 932 containing a battery powered light emitting unit 934. The unit 934 includes a piezoelectric shock sensor 936, preferably a PVDF type sensor similar to the piezoelectric shock sensor 218 of FIG. The piezoelectric shock sensor 936 is the circuit 220 of FIG.
Is electrically connected to a ball circuit similar to. The ball circuit is a battery pack 94 similar to the battery pack 222 of FIG.
Powered by 0. The difference is that the ball circuit has two LEs, both of which are similar to the LED 226 of FIG.
It means to activate D. The LED 942 is positioned to emit light outward from the central cavity 932, usually in the opposite direction.

In operation, each time the ball 930 hits a hard surface, for example, each time the ball bounces, the piezoelectric shock sensor 936 is under pressure, which results in a monostable that lights both LEDs for a predetermined time. A pulse of electrical energy is generated that activates the circuit. Since the LED 942 typically emits in the opposite direction, it is likely that one of the two LEDs will be visible, regardless of the direction in which the ball 930 is visible. The fact that the ball 930 is made of translucent (as opposed to completely transparent) material means that
The emitted light tends to be diffused, and the light emitting unit 934 (that is, the piezoelectric shock sensor 936, the ball circuit, the battery pack,
It means that the 940 and the LED 942) are distinct and not visible as separate parts.

The LED 326 of the shoe of the present invention or the LED 942 of the ball of the present invention can be replaced with a sounding device. Similarly, the circuit can be modified so that both the LED and the sounding device are incorporated into the same product.

Referring to FIG. 9, the present invention also includes a piezoelectric shock sensor 918, circuit 920, battery pack 922 and LE.
It can be seen that it can be used in connection with fishing bait 986 including D926. Pseudo bait 986 can be shaped to resemble a fish with fins 988 and tails 990. Furthermore, the fishing lure is L
A fish shape may be included with an optical fiber 992 that transmits light from the ED926 to, for example, a fin and / or tail (or even an eye) of a fish-shaped simulated bait. In its operation, the piezoelectric shock sensor 918 senses the shocks resulting from a sudden pull of a fishing rod, etc., and these shocks trigger the circuit 920 to trigger / flash the circuit for a predetermined time.

It will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes can be made in the principle and scope of the present invention with respect to the arrangement of fine parts, materials and parts.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a side view of an embodiment of the present invention in which a piezoelectric shock sensor is incorporated into sports shoes.

FIG. 2 is a sectional view of another embodiment of the present invention in which a piezoelectric impact sensor is incorporated in a ball.

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram including a monostable multivibrator circuit incorporated into a product of the invention, such as the athletic shoe of FIG. 1, for example.

FIG. 4 is a plan view of an athletic shoe of the invention in which light emitting diodes are attached to a shoe at one end of a light transmitting fiber optic bundle, the other end of which terminates at various points on the upper outer surface of the shoe. It is a schematic diagram.

FIG. 5 is a schematic plan view of another embodiment of the sports shoe of the present invention in which the light emitting diode is mounted on the bottom at one end of the optical fiber bundle.

6 is an enlarged view of an optical fiber of the sports shoe of FIG.

FIG. 7 is a schematic plan view of another embodiment of the athletic shoe of the present invention in which piezoelectric impact sensors are located at various locations on the sole and heel of the shoe.

FIG. 8 is a sports shoe of the present invention in which a plurality of light emitting diodes are mounted at one end of an optical fiber bundle, and fibers at the other end of the optical fiber bundle are embedded at various positions on the upper outer surface of the shoe. 2 is a schematic plan view of another embodiment of FIG.

FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of the present invention in which the product is a fishing lure.

FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of an AC monostable multivibrator circuit incorporated into various embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a graph of signal output of the circuit of FIG. 10 showing a reaction to an impact caused by walking or running.

FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of a monostable multivibrator circuit incorporated into a product of the present invention.

FIG. 13 is an explanatory view of another embodiment of the sports shoe of the present invention in which a plurality of light emitting diodes are arranged on the shoe.

FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram of another circuit for use in connection with the product of the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of another shoe of the present invention.

16A is an exploded view and external view of the shoe of FIG. 15 showing the location of components of the present invention.

16B is an exploded view and external view of the shoe of FIG. 15 showing the location of components of the present invention.

17A is a partial side plan view of the shoe of FIG. 15 showing a piezoelectric shock sensor on a cushion pad within the heel portion of the shoe. FIG.

17B is a partial side plan view of the shoe of FIG. 15 showing a piezoelectric shock sensor on a cushion pad within the heel portion of the shoe.

FIG. 18A is a partial exploded view of an electronic capsule including a circuit and a battery used in connection with the sports shoe of the present invention.

FIG. 18B is a partial exploded view of an electronic capsule including a circuit and a battery used in connection with the sports shoe of the present invention.

19 is a cross-sectional view of a component including the electronic capsule of FIG.

20 is a plan view of the cap of the electronic capsule of FIG. 18. FIG.

21 is a side plan view of the electronic capsule of FIG. 18. FIG.

FIG. 22 is an explanatory view of a critical angle relating to positioning of the light emitting diode in the heel of the shoe of the present invention.

FIG. 23 FIG. 1 in which some of the lighting means are shown in appearance
FIG. 5 is a partially exploded plan view of the shoe portion of FIG.

24 is a cross-sectional view of the heel portion of the shoe of FIG. 15 illustrating the position and configuration of the light chamber and light emitting diodes.

[Explanation of Codes] 210 Shoes 212 Sole-Heel Structure 214 Upper 216 Sole 218 Piezoelectric Impact Sensor 220 Circuit 224 Heel 226 Light Emitting Diode

Claims (69)

[Claims] 1. Impact sensor means comprising a polymeric sheet of piezoelectric material for generating a trigger signal when impacted,
The impact sensor means includes an output means including a light emitting diode and generating an output signal, and a power supply means including a monostable circuit and connecting the impact sensor means and the output means to each other to supply electric power to the output means. Circuit means for supplying electric power to the output means in order to output an output signal related to shock in response to a trigger signal from the device, and a combination means of resistance and capacitance for determining the length of time that the light emitting diode is lit Shoes that respond to shocks. 2. The shoe according to claim 1, wherein the light emitting diode is located at the back of the shoe and is visible from behind the shoe. 3. The shoe of claim 1, wherein the piezoelectric material comprises polyvinylidene fluoride. 4. The shoe according to claim 3, wherein the output means comprises a plurality of light emitting diodes. 5. The shoe according to claim 3, wherein the impact sensor means comprises a plurality of impact sensors. 6. The circuit means receives the trigger signal from the shock sensor means and outputs the trigger signal to the circuit means, and the signal generated by the configuration of the circuit to the output means. 4. A shoe according to claim 3, comprising output leads for delivering and combined resistance-capacitance timing means for determining the length of the signal produced by the circuit means. 7. Impact sensor means comprising a polymeric piezoelectric material and for generating a trigger signal upon impact.
A light emitting diode, a battery means for supplying electric power to the light emitting diode, the shock sensor means, the light emitting diode and the battery means are connected to each other, and in response to the trigger signal, the shock sensor means Shoe for lighting in response to a shock, comprising circuit means for connecting the battery to the light emitting diode to light the light emitting diode. 8. The shoe according to claim 7, wherein the circuit means comprises resistance / capacity combination means for determining the length of time that the light emitting diode is lit. 9. The shoe according to claim 8, wherein the light emitting diode is located at a rear portion of the shoe and is visible from behind the shoe. 10. The shoe of claim 8, wherein the light emitting diode is located within the shoe and an optical fiber directs light to the outside of the shoe. 11. The shoe of claim 10, wherein the optical fiber includes a plurality of notches through which light exits. 12. The shoe of claim 7, wherein the polymeric piezoelectric material comprises polyvinylidene fluoride. 13. The circuit means includes monostable circuit means responsive to the trigger signal, input means for receiving the trigger signal from the shock sensor means and sending the trigger signal to the circuit means, and the light emission. The diode is provided with output means for delivering the signal generated by the circuit, the monostable circuit means comprising combined resistance-capacitance timing means for determining the length of the signal generated by the circuit means. The shoe according to claim 12. 14. The circuit means comprises a monostable multivibrator circuit means, the monostable multivibrator circuit means comprising a sensitivity resistance means to which a trigger signal of the impact sensor means is applied, a monostable multivibrator circuit, A first resistance means for limiting a current through the light emitting diode; a second resistance means coupled to the capacitance means to form a resistance / capacity timing circuit means; and a capacitance means of the resistance / capacity timing circuit means. Means for applying the generated voltage to the input of the monostable multivibrator circuit means. 15. The shoe of claim 7, wherein the impact sensor means comprises a plurality of impact sensors. 16. A shock sensor means comprising a heavy electric sheet of piezoelectric material for generating a trigger signal when receiving an impact, an output means for generating an output signal, and a battery means for supplying electric power to the output. Circuit means for connecting the shock sensor means, the output means and the power supply means to each other, and for connecting the power supply means to the output means in order to send an output signal related to a shock in response to the trigger signal. Prepare shoes that respond to shocks. 17. The shoe according to claim 16, wherein the output means includes a light emitting means including a light emitting diode. 18. The shoe according to claim 16, wherein the output means includes an information display device including a liquid crystal display device. 19. The shoe according to claim 16, wherein the output means includes a light emitting device including a gas discharge lamp. 20. The shoe of claim 17, wherein the light emitting device is located at the back of the shoe and is visible from behind the shoe. 21. The shoe of claim 16, wherein the output means comprises a plurality of light emitting diodes. 22. The shoe of claim 16, wherein the impact sensor means comprises a plurality of impact sensors. 23. The shoe of claim 21, wherein the plurality of light emitting diodes are sequentially disposed on an upper portion of the shoe to form a bar graph representation of information produced by the shock sensor means and the circuit means. 24. The shoe of claim 23, wherein the circuit means comprises a microprocessor for providing preprogrammed control of the plurality of light emitting diodes. 25. Temperature sensor means for detecting a temperature in the shoe, temperature output means for indicating a relative temperature in the shoe, and a temperature circuit for connecting the temperature sensor means to the temperature output means. 25. A shoe according to claim 24, comprising means. 26. The shoe of claim 25, wherein the plurality of light emitting diodes comprises a bar graph display device of temperature sensed in the shoe. 27. An impact sensor means made of a polymeric piezoelectric material for generating a trigger signal when an impact is applied, a light emitting diode, a battery means for supplying power to the light emitting diode, the impact sensor means, Circuit means for connecting the light emitting diode and the battery means to each other, and for connecting the battery to the light emitting diode in order to light the light emitting diode upon impact in response to the trigger signal; A shoe lit in response to an impact, comprising a battery and a capsule means for encapsulating the circuit means. 28. The capsule means comprises a sealed capsule, the capsule having a base having a cylindrical portion and a mouth thereon, and a size sized to receive the cylindrical portion of the base. A cooperating lower sealing ring and means for releasably receiving leads from the shock sensor means,
An upper sealing ring that is sized to receive the cylindrical portion of the base and that cooperates with the lower sealing ring to position and retain the leads from the shock sensor means to seal the capsule; Sized to support the circuit means and be received within the cylindrical portion of the base,
Circuit board means electrically connected to the leads and batteries and a plurality of batteries sized to be received within the cylindrical portion of the base and electrically connected to the circuit means of the circuit board means. A contact spring means located in the cylindrical portion of the base, one end of which is in contact with one negative terminal of the battery and the other end of which is connected to the circuit means of the circuit board means; 28. The shoe of claim 27, comprising a cap that can be stopped and that cooperates with the base to close and seal the capsule. 29. An article for emitting light or sound in response to a shock comprising a battery powered light or sound emitting unit at least partially incorporated therein, said unit being a polymeric piezoelectric material. Made impact sensor, power supply battery,
A shock absorber comprising a light or sound emitting device and circuit means connected to the shock sensor for activating the light or sound emitting device by the battery in response to a trigger signal generated as a result of the shock response. An object that emits light or sound in response. 30. The article of claim 29, wherein the circuit means comprises a monostable circuit having a time constant that determines a time interval during which the device operates. 31. The article of claim 30, including means for adjusting the time constant. 32. The article of claim 31 including a light emitting device provided within the article and an optical fiber configured to direct the tip emitted by the light emitting device to the outer surface of the article. .. 33. The article of claim 31, wherein the article is a fishing lure. 34. The fishing lure has a fish-like shape and has fins and tails, and the optical fiber means comprises at least some of the light emitted by the light emitting device to provide fins for the fishing lure. 34. The article of claim 33, which comprises an optical fiber leading to the tail. 35. The article of claim 31, wherein the article is a ball. 36. The article of claim 35 having a radially outer region of a translucent polymeric material. 37. The article of claim 36, including two light emitting devices configured to be actuated by the circuit and configured to emit light in substantially opposite directions. 38. The article of claim 31, wherein the article is a shoe. 39. The article according to claim 38, wherein the shoe has a sole sole-heel structure and is composed of at least a battery, a circuit, and a light-emitting device provided on the heel. 40. The article of claim 39, wherein the light emitting device is configured to emit light back from the heel. 41. The article of claim 40, wherein the impact sensor comprises a polymeric piezoelectric material incorporated into the sole of the shoe. 42. The article of claim 38, comprising a plurality of light emitting devices located at a plurality of points throughout the outer surface of the shoe. 43. A plurality of impact sensors distributed through the sole of the shoe, and circuitry designed to light a light emitting device to indicate the relative impact sensed by each impact sensor. The article according to claim 38. 44. The article of claim 43, wherein the light emitting device is configured to illuminate in a predetermined order in response to successive shocks and groups of shocks detected by the shock sensor. 45. An impact sensor made of a polymeric piezoelectric material, a battery, a light emitting device, a circuit connected to the impact sensor and the light emitting device, and light emitted by the light emitting device in the shoe. And a fiber optic means for delivering to the outer surface of the shoe. 46. The shoe of claim 45, wherein said fiber optic means comprises a bundle of fiber optics that transmits said emitted light to a plurality of points on the outer surface of said shoe. 47. The shoe of claim 46, wherein at least some of the optical fibers terminate at their free ends. 48. The shoe of claim 47, wherein the end of the optical fiber is colored with colored translucent ink. 49. Input sensor means for generating an input signal, information display means for displaying information, battery means for operating the input sensor means, the information display means and the microprocessor circuit means, and an input sensor means for generating. A shock responsive shoe comprising a microprocessor circuit means for receiving the received input signals, analyzing and processing these signals and outputting these signals to said information display means. 50. The shoe according to claim 49, wherein the information display means is a liquid crystal display device. 51. A shock sensor means made of a polymeric piezoelectric material, which generates an input signal in proportion to the magnitude of the shock detected, and shock detected by a shock sensor composed of a plurality of light emitting devices. Responding to an impact, comprising an output means for indicating a size, a microprocessor circuit for processing an input from the impact sensor means and controlling an operation of the output means, and a circuit means comprising a power supply for operating the output means. Shoes to wear. 52. The shoe of claim 51, wherein the plurality of light emitting devices are configured to form a bar graph display. 53. An impact sensor made of a polymer piezoelectric material, which produces a trigger signal when an impact is applied,
Information display means for instructing various exercises performed by the wearer of the shoe, processing a trigger signal from the impact sensor means, controlling the information displayed by the information display means, a microprocessor circuit, and the output. A shoe responsive to shock, comprising circuit means comprising a power supply for operating the means. 54. The shoe according to claim 53, wherein the information display means comprises a plurality of liquid crystal display devices operated by a microprocessor circuit in various patterns according to various exercises. 55. An impact sensor means comprising a polymer sheet of piezoelectric material, which produces a trigger signal when an impact is applied, a temperature sensor means which produces a signal indicating the temperature of the inside of the shoe, and the impact. Circuit means for processing the trigger signals from the sensor means and the temperature sensor means and for controlling the output means and actuating a visual or audible output device indicating the sensed impact and the temperature sensed in the shoe. A shoe responsive to impact, comprising output means. 56. The shoe according to claim 55, wherein the output means comprises at least one light emitting device that indicates an impact detected by the impact sensor means. 57. The output means comprises a plurality of light emitting devices arranged in a pattern, the actuation of the light emitting devices of the pattern visually indicating a temperature represented by a signal generated by the temperature sensor means. 55. Controlled by said circuit means to
Shoes described in. 58. The shoe of claim 55, wherein said circuit means comprises a microprocessor circuit. 59. The shoe of claim 58, wherein the microprocessor circuit modifies the rate at which the output means is activated according to a trigger signal generated by the impact sensor means. 60. A shock sensor in the form of a sheet of piezoelectric material incorporated into a shoe sole, a battery, a plurality of light emitting devices, and responsive to an electrical energy generated by the piezoelectric material and in response to a shock. Circuit means for selectively actuating the light emitting device by the battery according to an amount of electrical energy, the light emitting device providing a visual indication of the amount of pressure exerted on the sole of the shoe, responsive to impact. shoes. 61. The shoe of claim 60, wherein the light emitting device is configured to form a bar graph display. 62. A shoe according to claim 60, wherein said circuit means comprises a ladder network and a plurality of threshold circuits. 63. A temperature sensing means responsive to the temperature in the shoe, a battery, a plurality of light emitting devices, and a display responsive to the temperature sensing means to indicate the temperature in the shoe. And circuit means for selectively operating the light emitting device by the battery. 64. The shoe of claim 63, wherein the light emitting device comprises different colors representing different temperatures. 65. The shoe of claim 63, wherein the light emitting devices are arranged in a linear array. 66. The shoe of claim 63, wherein the circuit means comprises a ladder network and a plurality of threshold circuits. 67. A battery, at least one light emitting device, and circuit means for operating the light emitting device by the battery at at least one programmable rate to provide ease of pace setting for a shoe wearer. Shoes with and. 68. The shoe includes a piezoelectric impact sensor that produces an electrical signal for each impact of the shoe, and the circuit means modifies the programmable rate in response to the electrical signal. 67 shoes. 69. The shoe of claim 68, wherein said circuit means comprises a microprocessor.