KR102022224B1 - Footwear having sensor system - Google Patents

Abstract

The sensor system is adapted for use in a shoe product and includes an insert member having first and second layers, a port connected to the insert member to communicate with the electronic module, and a plurality of loads and / or pressures on the insert member. A sensor and a plurality of leads connecting the sensor to the port.

Description

Shoes with sensor system {FOOTWEAR HAVING SENSOR SYSTEM}

Cross Reference of Related Application

This application is directed to US patent application Ser. No. 13 / 401,914, filed Feb. 22, 2012, US patent application Ser. No. 13 / 401,916, filed Feb. 22, 2012, and US patent application No. 13, filed February 22, 2012. / 401,918, all of which are named "Shoes with Sensor System", all of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

Technical field

The present invention relates generally to shoes having a sensor system, and more particularly to shoes having a load and / or pressure sensor assembly operatively connected to a communication port located within the shoe.

Shoes having a sensor system included herein are known. The sensor system collects performance data, which can be accessed later for use, for example for analysis purposes. For any system, the sensor system is complex or data can only be accessed or used by any operating system. Thus, the use of the collected data may be unnecessarily restricted. Thus, although any shoe with a sensor system provides a number of advantageous features, these shoes have certain limitations.

The present invention seeks to overcome some of these limitations and other drawbacks of the prior art and to provide new features not employed until now.

The present invention relates generally to shoes having a sensor system. Various aspects of the invention relate to a shoe product comprising an upper member and a sole structure and connecting the sensor system to the sole structure. The sensor system includes a plurality of sensors configured to sense the load and / or pressure applied to the sensor by the user's foot.

Various aspects of the present invention relate to sensor systems adapted for use in footwear products. The sensor system includes an insertion member configured to be inserted into a foot-receptor of a shoe product, including a first layer and a second layer, a port connected to the insertion member and configured for communication with an electronic module, and a plurality of on the insertion member. And a load and / or pressure sensor, and a plurality of leads connecting the sensors to the port.

The system may include a path that provides electrical communication between the first and second layers. The system may further comprise a housing coupled to the insertion member and configured to support the electronic module in communication with the port. The insertion member may further comprise at least one additional layer, such as a spacer layer having holes aligned with components of the sensor and / or path to allow for coupling of the sensor and / or path.

According to one aspect, the sensor system includes a first resistor located on the first layer and a second resistor located on the second layer, each of the first and second resistors being one or more of the leads. Is connected to. The port, the path, the sensor, the lead and the first and second resistors form a circuit on the insertion member, the circuit configured to apply a voltage between ground and the first terminal located at the port. do. The first and second resistors are arranged in parallel between the first terminal and ground. Each of the resistors includes an inner section connected to the first lead, an outer section connected to the second lead, and a bridge extending between the inner section and the outer section and partially overlapping both the inner section and the outer section. In addition, the resistor may be configured to allow an electronic signal to pass between the first and second leads through the inner section, the bridge and the outer section.

According to another aspect, the path further comprises a substantially annular reinforcement located at least one of the first and second layers around the path, the reinforcement may have a reduced elasticity relative to the path. . The path further or alternatively includes a first conductive portion on the first layer and a second conductive portion on the second layer, wherein the first and second conductive portions are in continuous contact with each other through the aperture. Is present to provide electrical communication between the first and second layers, the first and second conducting portions extending through corresponding conducting portions, respectively, to divide the first and second conducting portions into separate first and second sections. May have a gap. In this configuration, the gap may extend and be aligned substantially perpendicular to an imaginary line extending between the front edge of the first metatarsophalangeal sensor and the rear edge of the fourth metatarsal bone sensor. In this configuration the path may constitute two separate paths on either side of the gap.

According to another aspect, the spacer layer may include a first hole aligned with one of the sensors to allow at least partial contact between the first and second contacts of the sensor through the spacer layer, and And a channel extending from the aperture to the vent in the insert, wherein the channel flows through the first vent between the first and second layers from the sensor to the exterior of the insert. ) Can be allowed. The vent may have a selectively permeable closure member positioned to cover the vent. In addition, the vent may be connected to two or more sensors via additional channels and / or may include a second vent connected to the one or more sensors in a similar configuration. The shoe product incorporating the insertion member may comprise a cavity in the sole member of the shoe at least partially positioned below the vent. The cavity is laterally from the vent to a distal end positioned outside the outer perimeter of the insertion member such that the air exiting the first vent is passed away from the insertion member. Is extended. In addition, a patch of dielectric material may be connected to one of the first and second layers and extends across the channel to be positioned between the first and second layers, thereby allowing one between the first and second layers through the channel. The short circuit of the above conductive member can be resisted.

According to a further aspect, the insertion member may comprise an extension extending into the recess to form an interface by reinforcing the end of the lead, the extension having a stiffener strip extending over the end of the lead. The extension includes a curved area in which the extension is bent down at or near the outer edge of the housing and a extending portion extending downward from the curved area into the recess. In this configuration, the interface is located on the protrusion in the recess and the strip extends transversely across the curved area to provide reinforcement and wear resistance to the curved area. The system may include an interface assembly including a base member and a plurality of electrical connectors supported by the base member, wherein at least a portion of the protrusion is received in the base member and an end of the lead is connected to the electrical connector. Contact with and form the interface.

According to another aspect, the insert includes a first cut-out on the inner edge of the insert and a second cut-out on the lateral edge of the insert, near the boundary between the forefoot and midfoot. The width of the insertion member formed between the medial and lateral edges is greater than the width measured between the first and second cut-outs at the midfoot and the width measured at the heel. The insertion member may also include a hole configured to receive the housing in the midfoot portion, and the hole may be formed less than half the width of the midfoot portion. The insertion member may also include other cut-out portions.

Another aspect of the invention is directed to a sensor system that includes various combinations of the foregoing features.

A further several aspect of the invention relates to a system comprising a shoe product having a sensor system as described above to which an electronic module is connected and an external device configured for communication with the electronic module. The module is configured to receive data from the sensor and send the data to an external device, wherein the external device is configured for further processing of the data.

According to one aspect, the system may also include an accessory device coupled to the external device and configured to enable communication between the electronic module and the external device. The accessory device may be configured for connection to the second external device to enable communication between the electronic module and the second external device.

Further features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description, which is taken jointly with the following drawings.

1 is a side view of a shoe;
2 is an opposite side view of the shoe of FIG. 1;
3 is a top perspective view of a sole of a shoe incorporating a sensor system of one embodiment in accordance with various aspects of the present invention (a shoe with the upper removed and the foot-contacting member folded to one side);
4 is a top perspective view of the sole and sensor system of FIG. 3 with the foot-contacting member of the shoe removed and the electronic module removed;
5 is a top perspective view of the sole of FIG. 3 with the foot-contacting member of the shoe removed and without a sensor system;
6 is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of an electronic module usable in a sensor system in communication with an external electronic device;
FIG. 7 is a top view of the insertion member of the sensor system of FIG. 3 adapted to be positioned within the sole structure of a user's right foot shoe product; FIG.
8 is a top perspective view of the insertion member of FIG. 7;
9 is a top view of the sensor system of FIG. 3 including the insertion member of FIG. 7;
10 is a top perspective view of the sensor system of FIG. 9;
11 is an enlarged top view of a portion of the sensor system of FIG. 9;
12 is a top view of a sensor system adapted to be used in the sole structure of a user's left foot shoe product as the sensor system of FIG. 9 and similar;
13 is an exploded perspective view of the insert member of FIG. 7 showing four different layers;
14 is a top view of the first layer of the insertion member of FIG. 13;
FIG. 15 is an enlarged top view of a portion of the first layer of FIG. 14;
FIG. 16 is a top view of the second layer of the insertion member of FIG. 13; FIG.
17 is an enlarged top view of a portion of the second layer of FIG. 16;
18 is a top view of the spacer layer of the insert member of FIG. 13;
19 is a top view of the bottom layer of the insert member of FIG. 13;
20 is a schematic circuit diagram illustrating one embodiment of a circuit formed by components of the sensor system of FIG. 9;
FIG. 21 is an enlarged cross-sectional view schematically showing the area indicated by lines 21-21 of FIG. 11;
22A is a bottom view of the sensor system of FIG. 9;
FIG. 22B is a bottom view of the sensor system as shown in FIG. 22A with a filter connected over the vents of the sensor system;
FIG. 22C is a top view of a spacer layer of another embodiment of an insertion member for a sensor system, in accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure, with dashed lines showing the position of the sensor; FIG.
FIG. 22D is a bottom view of the insertion member for a sensor system incorporating the spacer layer of FIG. 22C, with a broken line showing the position of a filter connected to the insertion member; FIG.
FIG. 23 is a schematic diagram of the electronic module of FIG. 6 in a state capable of communicating with an external game device;
24 is a schematic diagram of a pair of shoes each including a sensor system in mesh communication mode with an external device;
FIG. 25 is a schematic diagram of a pair of shoes each including a sensor system in a “daisy chain” communication mode with an external device; FIG.
26 is a schematic diagram of a pair of shoes each including a sensor system in an independent communication mode with an external device;
27 illustrates pressure versus resistance for one embodiment of a sensor in accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure;
FIG. 28 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the sole and sensor system of FIG. 4; FIG.
29 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of another embodiment of a sole and sensor system in accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure;
30 is a top view of the sole of FIG. 3 with the foot-contacting member in the operating position;
FIG. 31 is a cross sectional view schematically showing a view taken along the 31-31 line in FIG. 10;
32 is a cross sectional view schematically showing a view taken along line 32-32 of FIG. 10;
33 is an exploded perspective view of a sensor system of another embodiment in accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure;
34 is an exploded perspective view of a sensor system of another embodiment in accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure;
35A and 35B are schematic cross-sectional views of sensors of the sensor system of FIG. 7;
36 is a top perspective view of a sole of a shoe incorporating a sensor system of another embodiment in accordance with various aspects of the present invention (a shoe with the upper removed and the foot-contacting member folded to one side);
FIG. 37 is a top perspective view of the shoe of FIG. 36 with the foot-contacting member of the shoe removed and without a sensor system;
FIG. 38 is a top perspective view of the sole and sensor system of FIG. 36 with the foot-contacting member of the shoe removed and the electronic module removed; FIG.
FIG. 39 is a top view of the insertion member of the sensor system of FIG. 36 adapted to be positioned within the sole structure of a user's right foot shoe product; FIG.
40 is a top view of the first layer of the insert member of FIG. 39;
FIG. 41 is a top view of the second layer of the insert member of FIG. 39; FIG.
FIG. 42 is a top view of the spacer layer of the insert member of FIG. 39; FIG.
43 is a top view of the bottom layer of the insert member of FIG. 39;
44 is an exploded perspective view of the insert member of FIG. 39 showing four different layers;
45 is a top perspective view of a sole of a shoe incorporating a sensor system of another embodiment in accordance with various aspects of the present invention (a shoe with the upper removed and the foot-contacting member folded to one side);
46 is a top perspective view of the sole of FIG. 45 with the foot-contacting member of the shoe removed and without a sensor system;
FIG. 47 is a top perspective view of the sole and sensor system of FIG. 45 with the foot-contacting member of the shoe removed and the electronic module removed; FIG.
48 is a top view of an insertion member of an embodiment sensor system bonded to be positioned within the sole structure of a user's right foot shoe product according to various aspects of the present disclosure;
FIG. 49 is a top view of the first layer of the insert member of FIG. 48; FIG.
50 is a top view of the spacer layer of the insert member of FIG. 48;
51 is a top view of the second layer of the insert member of FIG. 48;
52 is a top view of an insertion member of another embodiment of a sensor system in accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure;
53 is a top view of the first layer of the insert member of FIG. 52;
54 is a top view of the spacer layer of the insert member of FIG. 52;
55 is a top view of the second layer of the insert member of FIG. 52;
FIG. 56 is a cross sectional view taken along line 56-56 of FIG. 52;
57 is a schematic cross-sectional diagram illustrating an embodiment method and apparatus for forming a recess in a sole structure of a shoe product according to various aspects of the present disclosure;
FIG. 58 is a schematic cross sectional view illustrating the sole structure of the shoe product of FIG. 57 having an insertion member of the sensor system and a foot contacting member connected thereto; FIG.
FIG. 59 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating another embodiment sensor system positioned within the sole structure of a shoe product according to various aspects of the present disclosure; FIG.
59A is a schematic cross-sectional diagram illustrating another embodiment sensor system positioned within the sole structure of a shoe product according to various aspects of the present disclosure;
60 is a perspective view of an embodiment foot-contacting member configured for use in a sensor system in accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure;
61 is a perspective view of another embodiment sensor system in accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure;
62-64 are top and perspective views of a port of an insertion member according to various aspects of the present invention;
65-67 show components of the housing of the port;
68-71 show views of an interface assembly used for a port;
72-73 show views of an interface assembly operatively connected to an insertion member;
74 is a partially enlarged plan view of a port connected to the insertion member, with the cover member removed;
75-76 are side views of ports attached to the insertion member;
77-78 are additional views of modules in accordance with various aspects of the present invention;
79-80 are perspective views of contacts and module carriers in accordance with various aspects of the present invention;
81-83 are perspective views of the components of the module;
84 is a partial cross-sectional view showing overmolding of contacts of an interface of a module;
85-86 are plan views of modules showing light assemblies according to various aspects of the present disclosure;
87-90 are interior views of modules showing components of the light assembly;
91-94 are diagrams of PCB and ground plane extenders associated with modules in accordance with various aspects of the present invention.

While the invention may be embodied in many different forms, the disclosure is to be regarded as illustrative of the principles of the invention and is preferred with the understanding that the broad aspects of the invention are not intended to be limited to the illustrated and illustrated embodiments. Embodiments are illustrated in the drawings and described in detail herein.

Footwear, such as shoes, is shown by way of example in FIGS. 1-2 and is generally designated by reference numeral 100. The shoe 100 may take many different forms, including, for example, various kinds of athletic shoes. In an example embodiment, the shoe 100 typically includes a load and / or pressure sensor system 12 operatively connected to the universal communication port 14. As described in more detail below, sensor system 12 collects performance data regarding the wearer of shoe 100. Through connection to the universal communication port 14, a number of different users can access performance data for a variety of other purposes as detailed below.

The shoe 100 product is shown to include an upper 120 and a sole structure 130 in FIGS. 1-2. For reference in the following description, the shoe 100 may be divided into three rough areas: forefoot 111, midfoot 112, and heel 113, as illustrated in FIG. 1. The areas 111-113 are not intended to delimit the shoe 100 precisely to the area. Precisely, the areas 111-113 are intended to represent an approximate area of the shoe 100 that provides a frame of reference during the following discussion. Although the regions 111-113 are roughly applied to the shoe 100, reference to the regions 111-113 specifically refers to the upper 120, the sole structure 130, or the upper 120 or the sole. It may be applied to individual components included in and / or formed as part of structure 130.

As further illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, the upper 120 is secured to the sole structure 130 to form an empty space or chamber for receiving a foot. For reference, upper 120 includes lateral surface 121, opposite medial surface 122, and instep area 123. The lateral side 121 is positioned to extend along the outside (ie, outside) of the foot and generally passes through each of the regions 111-113. Similarly, medial side 122 is positioned to extend along the opposite medial side (ie, interior) of the foot and generally passes through each of regions 111-113. The instep area 123 is located between the lateral side 121 and the medial side 122 to correspond to the top or instep area of the foot. Instep region 123 includes, in the illustrated example, a throat 124, which throat is utilized in a conventional manner to adjust the size of upper 120 to the foot of the shoe 100. Shoelace 125 or other preferred closure mechanism to adjust the fit. Upper 120 also includes an ankle opening 126 that allows the foot to access an empty space in the upper. Various materials typically utilized in footwear uppers may be used to construct the upper 20. Thus, upper 120 may be formed of, for example, one or more portions of leather, synthetic leather, natural and synthetic fibers, polymer sheets, polymer foams, mesh fibers, felt, nonwoven polymers, or rubber materials. Upper 120 may be formed of one or more of these materials, which materials, or portions thereof, may be stitched together or adhesively bonded together, for example, in a manner commonly known and used in the art.

Upper 20 may also include heel elements (not shown) and toe elements (not shown). The heel element, when provided, may extend upward and along the inner surface of the upper 120 at the heel 113 to enhance the comfort of the shoe 100. The toe element, if provided, can be located within the forefoot 111 and on the outer surface of the upper 120 to provide wear resistance, protect the wearer's toe, and assist in foot placement. In some embodiments, one or both of the heel element and the toe element may be excluded or may be placed, for example, on the outer surface of upper 120. Although the configuration of the upper 120 described above is suitable for the shoe 100, the upper 120 may represent any preferred upper structure that is conventional or not conventional without departing from the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 3, the sole structure 130 is fixed to the lower surface of the upper 120 and may have a generally general shape. The sole structure 130 may include, for example, multiple structures including a midsole 131, an outsole 132, and a foot-contacting member 133. Foot-contacting member 133 is typically a thin and compressed member, which member is positioned adjacent to the sole (or between upper 120 and midsole 131) in an empty space in upper 120 to allow footwear 100 to be positioned. ) Can improve the comfort. In various embodiments, foot-contacting member 133 may be an insole, strobel, insole member, bootie member, sock, or the like. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3-5, the foot-contacting member 133 is an insole member or insole. As used herein, the term "foot-contacting member" does not mean that the element is in direct contact with the foot of the user, as other elements may be in direct contact. Precisely, the foot-contacting member can form part of the inner surface of the foot-receiving chamber of the shoe product. For example, the user may be wearing socks that are in direct contact. As another example, sensor system 12 may be incorporated into a shoe product designed to slide over a shoe or a shoe product such as an external bootie element or shoe cover. In such products, the top of the sole structure can be considered a foot-contacting member even if it is not in direct contact with the foot of the user. In some configurations, the insole or insole may be omitted, and in other embodiments, the shoe 100 may have a foot-contacting member positioned over the insole or insole.

Midsole member 131 may be a cushioning member or may include a cushioning member, and in some embodiments may include multiple members or elements. For example, the midsole member 131 may be a polyurethane, ethylvinylacetate or other material (phylon, pilite) that attenuates the action of the earth or other contact surface during compression, walking, doublet, jumping or other activity. phylite) and the like. In some example structures according to the present invention, the polymeric foam may be a fluid filled bladder or cushioning material that enhances the comfort, motion-control, stability, and / or force damping properties of the ground or other contact surface. may cover or include various elements such as moderators. In another example structure, the midsole 131 may include additional elements that relieve the force of the earth or other contact surface through compression. For example, midsole 131 may include columnar elements that aid in cushioning or absorbing loads.

Outsole 132 is secured to the bottom surface of midsole 131 in the shoe structure 100 illustrated herein and is a wear resistant material, such as rubber, or a flexible synthetic material, such as polyurethane, that contacts the earth or other surface during walking or other activities. Is formed. The material forming the outsole 132 may be made of a suitable material and / or textured to provide improved drag and slip resistance. The outsole 132 shown in Figs. 1 and 2 may use a variety of different types of ground planes, shapes, and other structures in connection with the present invention, but on one or both sides of the outsole 132 It is illustrated as including a plurality of cutouts or grooves. It will be appreciated that embodiments of the present invention can be applied to other types of footwear and shoe structures, as well as other types and configurations of shoes.

1-5 show exemplary embodiments of a shoe 100 incorporating another sensor system 12 in the present invention, and FIGS. 3-22B show exemplary embodiments of the sensor system 12. The sensor system 12 includes an insertion member 37 to which a load and / or pressure sensor assembly 13 is coupled. The insertion member 37 is configured to be positioned in contact with the sole structure 130 of the shoe 100, and in one embodiment, the insertion member 37 is above the midsole member 131 under the foot-contacting member 133. It is configured to be placed in a general face-to-face relationship. The sensor assembly 13 includes a plurality of sensors 16 and a communication or output port 14 capable of communicating with the sensor assembly 13 (eg, electrically connected via a conductor). The port 14 is configured to communicate data received from the sensor 16 to, for example, an electronic module (also referred to as an electronic control unit) 22 as described below. Port 14 and / or module 22 may likewise be configured to communicate with an external device as described below. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3-5, the system 12 includes four sensors 16, a first sensor 16a, a first sensor in the region of the large toe (first phalange or big toe) of the shoe. Two sensors in the forefoot of the shoe, including a second sensor 16b in the first metatarsal head region and a third sensor 16c in the fifth metatarsal head region, and a fourth sensor 16d in the heel. . These areas in the foot typically experience maximum pressure during movement. Each sensor 16 is configured to sense the pressure the user's foot exerts on the sensor 16. The sensors communicate with port 14 via sensor leads 18, which may be wire leads and / or other electrical conductors or suitable communication media. For example, in the embodiments of FIGS. 3-5, the sensor leads 18 are electrically conductive media printed on the insert member 37, such as silver-containing inks or metallic inks such as copper and / or tin based inks. Can be. Lead 18 may alternatively be provided as a tin wire in one embodiment. In other embodiments, the lid 18 may be connected to the foot-contacting member 133, midsole member 131, or other member of the sole structure.

Other embodiments of sensor system 12 may include other numbers or configurations of sensors 16 and generally include at least one sensor 16. For example, in one embodiment, the system 12 includes a very large number of sensors, and in another embodiment, the system 12 includes two sensors, one on the heel of the shoe and one on the forefoot. do. In addition, the sensor 16 may communicate with the port 14 in other ways, including any known type of wired or wireless communication, including Bluetooth and near field communication. Each shoe of the pair of shoes is provided with a sensor system 12, and the paired sensor systems may operate cooperatively or independently of each other and the sensor systems in each shoe may or may not communicate with each other. It is understood that there is. The communication of the sensor system 12 is described in more detail below. Sensor system 12 may have a computer program / algorithm that controls the collection and storage of data (e.g., pressure data derived from interaction between the user's foot and the ground or other contact surface), which program / algorithm It is understood that 16 may be stored in and / or executed by module 22, and / or external device 10.

Sensor system 12 may be located in various structures within sole 130 of shoe 100. In the example shown in FIGS. 3-5, the port 14, the sensor 16, and the lid 18 are for example by placing the insertion member 37 between the midsole 131 and the foot-contacting member 133. It may be located between the midsole 131 and the foot-contacting member 133. Insertion member 37 may be connected to one or both of midsole 131 and foot-contacting member 133 in one embodiment. As will be described below, a cavity or recess 135 may be located within the midsole 131 (FIG. 5) and / or within the foot-contacting member 133 for receiving the electronic module 22, and In an embodiment, the port 14 can be accessed from within the recess 135. The recess 135 may further contain a housing 24 for the module 22, which may provide, for example, a physical space for the port 14 and / or the module with the port 14. And may be configured to connect to the port 14 by providing hardware for interconnection between the two. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 5, the recess 135 is formed by a cavity in the upper major surface of the midsole 131. As shown in FIG. 5, the sole structure 130 provides an access to the recess 135 and / or has a hole therein for housing the housing 24 that may be considered part of the recess 135. It may include a compressible sole member 138. Insert member 37 may be disposed on top of compressible sole member 138 to place housing 24 in recess 135. The compressible sole member 138 may face the midsole 131 in one embodiment and may be in direct contact with the midsole 131. The compressible sole member 138 may face the midsole 131 such that one or more additional structures, such as strobel members, are positioned between the sole member 138 and the midsole 131. In the embodiment of FIGS. 3-5, the compressible sole member 138 is in the form of a foam member 138 (eg, EVA member) positioned between the foot-contacting member 133 and the midsole 131, The foam member may be considered a lower insole / insole in this embodiment. Foam member 138 may in one embodiment be coupled to strobel 133A (FIG. 58) of midsole 131 by using, for example, an adhesive, and may cover any stitched portion on strobel to insert by lockstitch Wear of the member can be prevented. This configuration is schematically illustrated in FIG. 58. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3-5, the housing 24 includes a plurality of walls including side walls 25 and base walls 26, and also extends outward from the top of the side walls 25 to insert members. A flange or lip 28 configured to be connected to 37. In one embodiment, the flange 28 forms the housing 24 through a pin 28A that is penetrated to the hole 28B in the insertion member 37 located at the front end of the hole 27. It is an individual member connected to the cylinder part 29. Pin 28B may be connected via ultrasonic welding or other techniques, and in one embodiment may be received within the receptacle. In alternative embodiments, the shoe 100 product may be manufactured such that a tubular portion 29 is formed in the sole structure 130, and the flange 28 may optionally be adapted to, for example, a snap connection after the other part of the port has been assembled. Can be connected later. The housing 24 may include a retaining structure to retain the module 22 in the housing 24, such retaining structures such as tab / flange and slot configurations, complementary tabs, fastening members, friction-fitting members, and the like. It may be complementary to the retaining structure on module 22. The housing 24 also includes a finger recess 29A located in the flange 28 and / or the barrel 29, which hold the module 22 to pull the module 22 out of the housing 24. Provides space for the user's finger to remove. The flange 28 provides a wide base that restrains the top of the insert 37, which base exerts a load on the insert 37 and / or the foot-contacting member 133 by the flange 28. Dispersion reduces the likelihood that these components will be greatly deflected and / or damaged. Rounded corners on the flange 28 also help to prevent damage to the insertion member 37 and / or the foot-contacting member 133. Flange 28 may have different shapes and / or contours in other embodiments, and may provide similar functionality to different shapes and / or contours.

The foot-contacting member 133 is configured to be placed on top of the foam member 138 to cover the insertion member 37, and includes a recess 134 in the lower main surface as shown in FIG. Provide room for 24). The foot-contacting member 133 may be attached to the foam member 138, and in one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3, the foot-contacting member 133 is pulled up to the module 22 by being attached only to the forefoot. You can make it accessible. In addition, the foot-contacting member 133 is located on at least a portion of the bottom surface and is formed of an adhesive or high-friction material such as a silicone material having a sliding resistance with respect to the insert member 37 and / or the foam member 138. Not shown). For example, in one embodiment where the foot-contacting member 133 is attached to the forefoot but not on the heel (eg, FIG. 3), the foot-contacting member 133 may have an adhesive material located on the heel. Can be. The adhesive material may provide enhanced sealing to prevent foreign matter from penetrating into the sensor system. In another embodiment as shown in FIG. 60, the foot-contacting member 133 is configured to be positioned above the port 14 and can insert and / or remove the module 22 through the foot-contacting member 133. It may include a door or hatch 137 formed to a size. The foot-contacting member 133 of the embodiment shown in FIG. 60 may be used in place of the foot-contacting member 133 of FIG. 3, 36, or 45 to provide access to the port 14 and the module 22. Can be. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 60, the door 137 can open and close the door 137 by turning by having a hinge 137A formed by attachment of material along one edge of the door 137. In addition, the door 137 is formed of the same material as the foot contacting member 133 in this embodiment, so that the cushioning property is not so largely lost by the interposition of the door 137. The door 137 may also include a tab 137B or other structure that assists the user in grasping or manipulating the door 137. In one embodiment, sensor system 12 may be located on the bottom surface of foot-contacting member 133, in which embodiment door 137 may access port 14 (not shown). In other embodiments, door 137 may include a hinge on another edge, or may be opened in other ways, such as by separation, sliding, or the like. In one embodiment, the foot-contacting member 133 may include a graphical representation 92 thereon as described below.

In one embodiment as shown in FIGS. 3-5 and 7, the foam member 138 has a recess 139 of the same outer circumference as the insertion member 133 to accommodate the insertion member 37 therein. And the bottom layer 69 (FIG. 13) of the insertion member 37 may include an adhesive backing to hold the insertion member 37 in the recess 139. In one embodiment, a relatively strong adhesive, such as an acrylic adhesive for instant bonding, can be used for this purpose. The insertion member 37 has a hole or space 27 for receiving and providing a space for the housing 24, and the foam member 138 of the present embodiment has the housing 24 in place of the strobel and / or midsole 131. It may be allowed to penetrate completely or at least partially. In the embodiment shown in Figures 3-5, the foot-contacting member 133 may have a reduced thickness compared to a conventional foot-contacting member 133 (e.g., insole), and the thickness of the foam member 138 Is substantially the same as the thickness reduction of the foot-contacting member 133, thus providing equivalent cushioning. In one embodiment, the foot-contacting member 133 may be an insole of about 2-3 mm thick, the foam member 138 may have a thickness of about 2 mm, and the depth of the recess 139 may be About 1 mm. The foam member 138 may in one embodiment be adhesively connected to the insert member 37 prior to connecting the foam member 138 to the shoe 100 product. With this configuration, the foam member 138 and the insertion member (usually before attaching the foam member 138 to the strobel or other portion of the shoe 100 which would normally bend or flex the foam member or otherwise cause peeling) The adhesive between 37) can be placed in a flat state. Foam member 138 with adhesive insert 37 may be provided in this configuration as a single piece to be inserted into the shoe 100 product in one embodiment. The arrangement of the ports 14 of FIGS. 3-5 provides not only minimal contact, irritation or other interference to the user's feet, but also easy access by simply lifting the foot-contacting member 133.

In the embodiment of FIGS. 3-5, the housing 24 extends completely through the insertion member 37 and the foam member 138, and the recess 135 also has a strobel 133A as schematically shown in FIG. 58. ) Completely penetrates and partially extends into midsole 131 of shoe 100 to receive housing 24. In another embodiment, the recess 135 may be configured differently, and in one embodiment the module 22 in the recess 135 is positioned completely below the strobel 133A so that the window penetrates the strobel 133A. To allow access. The recess 135 includes cutting or removing material from the strobel 133A and / or midsole 131 or forming the strobel 133A and / or midsole 131 such that the recess 135 is formed therein. It may be formed using various methods or other methods or a combination of these methods. In one embodiment, as shown schematically in FIG. 57, a hot knife to remove piece 135A of material that penetrates strobel 133A and cuts into midsole 131 to form recess 135. 109 is used. In this embodiment, the hot knife 109 extends around the outer circumference of the hot knife 109 to form an intermediate portion between the wall portion 109A and the piece portion 135A, which forms a cavity 109B for receiving the piece 135A of the object to be removed. Branch portion 109C extending therethrough. The wall portion 109A cuts downward into the strobel 133A and the midsole 131 to cut the outer boundary of the piece 135A to be removed. Branch 109C weakens the bottom side of piece 135A to facilitate removal and assists in holding piece 135A in cavity 109B during removal, thereby simply removing hot knife 109 from brush structure ( Lifting away from 130 may remove the piece 135A. In one embodiment, hot knife 109 may be heated to a temperature of 250-260 ° C. In other embodiments, hot knife 109 (which may be other configurations) may be used to form recesses 135 of other shapes and / or shapes within the brush structure 130. 58 schematically illustrates the housing 24 housed within the recess 135 after formed with an insertion member 37 connected to the brush structure 130. As shown in FIG. 58, the housing 24 may be advantageous by fitting close to the wall of the recess 135 because the gap between the housing 24 and the recess 135 may be the cause of the material defect. Removal of the piece 135 can be automated using an appropriate computer control device.

The recess 135 may be located elsewhere in further embodiments. For example, the recess 135 may be located on the upper major surface of the foot-contacting member 133, and the insertion member 37 may be disposed on the top of the foot-contacting member 133. As another example, the recess 135 may be located on the lower major surface of the foot-contacting member 133, and the insertion member 37 may be located between the foot-contacting member 133 and the midsole 131. have. As a further example, the recess 135 may be located in the outsole 132 and may be accessible from the outside of the shoe 100 through, for example, holes in the side, bottom, and heel portions of the sole 130. In the configuration shown in FIGS. 3-5, the port 14 is easily accessible for connection and disconnection of the electronic module 22 as described below. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 59, the foot-contacting member 133 has an insertion member 37 connected to the bottom surface, and the port 14 and the recess 135 are, for example, shown in FIG. 58 and described above. It is formed in the sole structure 130 in the same configuration as. It is understood that the interface 20 may be located elsewhere, for example for contact through the top of the module 22, but is located on the side of the housing 24 as similarly shown in connection with other embodiments. Module 22 can be modified to accommodate this change. In this embodiment, the foot-contacting member 133 may be provided with a hole for access to the module 22 (eg, FIG. 60) or may be pulled up to access the module 22 as shown in FIG. 3. Can be. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 59A, the insertion member 37 is positioned in contact with the midsole member 131 under the foot-contacting member 133 and the strobel 133A. In this embodiment, the strobel 133A and / or the foot-contacting member 133 have holes for access to the module 22 and / or pull up to access the module 22 as shown in FIG. 3. can do.

In other embodiments, sensor system 12 may be otherwise positioned. For example, in one embodiment, the insertion member 37 may be located within the foot-contacting member 133 or foot-contacting, positioned over the insole member, such as, for example, a sock, insole, inner shoe bootie, or other similar product. It may be located between the member 133 and the insole member. Other configurations are possible, and some examples of other configurations are described below. As noted above, sensor system 12 may be included in each pair of shoes.

The insertion member 37 of the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 3-22B is formed in multiple layers including at least a first layer 66 and a second layer 68. The first and second layers 66, 68 may be formed of a flexible film material, such as Mylar® or other PET (polyethylene terephthalate) film, or other polymer film, such as polyamide. In one embodiment, the first and second layers 66 and 68 may each be PET films having a thickness of 0.05-0.2 mm, such as a thickness of 125 μm. In addition, in one embodiment, each of the first and second films 66, 68 has a minimum bending radius of 2 mm or less. The insertion member 37 may be provided with a spacer layer 67 positioned between the first and second layers 66 and 68 and / or a bottom layer positioned at the bottom of the insertion member 37 below the second layer 68. 69), wherein these additional layers are included in the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 3-22B. The layers 66, 67, 68, 69 of the insert 37 are stacked on top of one another in a facing relationship, and in one embodiment, the layers 66, 67, 68, 69 are all similar or identical in periphery. It has a shape and overlaps each other (FIG. 13). In one embodiment, the spacer layer 67 and the bottom layer 69 may each have a thickness of 89-111 μm, such as 100 μm. The overall thickness of the insert member 37 may be about 450 μm in one embodiment, about 428-472 μm in another embodiment, and about 278-622 μm in further embodiments. Insert member 37 may also include additional adhesive 100-225 μm thick, and in other embodiments may further include one or more optional reinforcement layers, such as additional PET layers. In addition, in one embodiment, the insertion member of all four layers described above has a minimum bending radius of 5 mm or less. The orientation of the first and second layers 66, 68 may be reversed by, for example, placing the second layer 68 into the top layer and the first layer 66 below the second layer 68. I understand. In the embodiment of FIGS. 3-22B, the first and second layers 66, 68 may be formed of, for example, the sensor 16, the leads 18, the resistors 53, 54, the path 50, described in detail below. It includes various printed circuits and other components, including dielectric patches 80 and other components. While the components are printed on the bottom surface of the first layer 66 and the top surface of the second layer 68 in the embodiment of FIGS. 3-22B, in other embodiments, at least some of the components are formed of the first and second layers ( 66, 68). It is understood that the components located on the first layer 66 and / or the second layer 68 may be moved / migrated to another layer. In one embodiment, the components may be printed in a way that limits the total number of printer steps required, and in one embodiment, all components on the individual layers 66, 68 may be printed in one step.

The layers 66, 67, 68, 69 may be joined together by an adhesive or other bonding means in one embodiment. The spacer layer 67 may include adhesive on one or both sides, in one embodiment, to connect to the first and second layers 66, 68. The bottom layer 69 may likewise comprise adhesive on one or both sides to be connected to the second layer as well as to the shoe 100 product. To this end the first and second layers 66, 68 may additionally or instead have contact surfaces. In other embodiments various other methods may be used for the connection of layers 66, 67, 68, 69, such as, for example, heat sealing, spot welding or other known methods.

The insertion member 37, the foot-contacting member 133 and / or other components of the sensor system 12 and the shoe 100 may include a graphic design or other indication (not shown) thereon. The graphic design may be provided on one or more graphic layers (not shown), which may be connected to the insert member 37, for example by placing the graphic layer on the first layer 66. The graphic design may correspond to the sensor assembly 13, the leads 18, and various other components supported by the layers. For example, in the embodiment of FIG. 60, the foot-contacting member 133 forms a graphical representation of the insertion member 37 of the sensor system 12 positioned below the foot-contacting member 133. Has 92. In other embodiments, other graphic designs may be used, including information, forms, and other such designs.

The insertion member 37 shown in Figs. 3-22B has a configuration that can use less material than the configuration of other insertion members and can provide greater burst resistance at a common stress point. In this embodiment, the insertion member 37 has several material portions that are cut out of the area of the insertion member 37 which may be unnecessary, such as in the lateral forefoot or the lateral and medial heel portions. In this configuration, the insertion member 37 has a forefoot 37A configured to be contacted by the forefoot of the user's foot and a forefoot 37B configured to be contacted by the forefoot of the user's foot (ie, metatarsal bone), and the heel of the foot of the user. The heel portion 37C and the first phalangeal portion 37D, which are configured to be contacted by each of the portion and the first phalanx, respectively, extend rearwardly from the midfoot portion 37A and forwardly from the forefoot portion. 4, 8, 10 and 22A illustrate these features in more detail. It is understood that the first phalanx portion 37D may contact only the first phalanx portion of the user depending on the shape of the foot of the user. In this embodiment, the first phalanx portion 37D and the heel portion 37C are configured as a peninsula extending from the base in the wider midfoot and forefoot portions 37A-B to the free end, elongated forward or backward respectively. The width of the forefoot portion 37B is larger than the width of the middle foot portion 37A, and both the middle foot portion and the forefoot portion 37A-B are larger than the width of the first phalanx portion 37D and the heel portion 37C. As mentioned herein, the width of a portion of the insert 37 is measured in the inward-outward direction and the length is measured in the forward-rear (toe-heel) direction. In the embodiment of FIGS. 3-22B, the first phalangeal portion 37D has one of the sensors 16a positioned at the top to be contacted by the user's first phalanx, and the heel portion 37C is driven by the user's heel And another one of the sensors located above to be in contact. The other two sensors 16b, 16c are located on the forefoot 37B of the insertion member 37, specifically in the first and fifth metatarsal head regions contacted by the first and fifth metatarsal head regions of the user's foot. do. The midfoot 37A includes a hole 27 for receiving the housing 24 and the module 22, which hole 27 extends between the forefoot portion 37B and the heel portion 37C and connects them. Strips 88 are formed. In one embodiment, the strip 88 has a minimum width of 8 mm or a width in the range of 3-5% of the total length of the insert 37. In this application, the length of the insertion member 37 is measured from the forefoot side tip of the first phalanx 37D to the heel side tip of the heel 37C. These strips 88 are subjected to high stresses during use, and this width helps to prevent them from breaking during use. In other embodiments, the strip 88 may be reinforced by additional structures. For example, in one embodiment, the strip 88 and / or other portions of the insertion member 133 may be reinforced by fibers or similar structures. As another example, the insert 37 may, in one embodiment, completely surround the housing 24 and occupy the entire joint between both strips 88 and the strip 88 and the rest of the insert 37, for example. An additional structural layer may be included in at least a portion of the insert 37, such as an additional structural layer.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3-22B, the insertion member 37 has an outer circumferential edge that forms the outer circumference of the insertion member 37, which outer circumferential edge is formed from the rear of the heel portion along the inner side of the insertion member 37. 2nd of the medial edge 85 extended to the front end of the phalanx part 37D, the lateral edge 86 extended from the rear of the heel part 37C to the front of the forefoot part 37B, and the insertion member 37 And an anterior edge 87 extending from the outer edge 86 to the first phalange 37D along the third, fourth and fifth metatarsal bones. The inner, outer and front edges 85, 86, 87 each have a cut-out in this embodiment as shown, for example, in FIGS. 8, 10 and 22a. The cut-out portion 87A along the front edge 87 is located between the outer edge 86 and the first phalangeal portion (ie, peninsula) 37D. The cut-outs 85A, 86A along the inner and outer edges 85, 86 are located near the connection between the forefoot 37B and the midfoot 37A, and the insertion member 37 at the midfoot 37A. The width W2 of the width W1 (formed between the inner and outer edges 85 and 86) and the forefoot portion 37B of the width W2 is measured between the first and second cut-out portions 85A and 86A. Is greater than the width W3. This configuration allows the neck 89 between the midfoot 37A and forefoot 37B to be narrower than the midfoot 37A or forefoot 37B. The widths W1 and W2 of the midfoot portion 37A and the forefoot portion 37B are also larger than the width W4 measured at the heel portion 37C, and the forefoot portion 37B has a maximum relative width W2. In the present embodiment, the heel portion 37C is wider than the front portion at the heel portion 37C so that the heel portion 37C increases in width from the midfoot portion 37A to the heel end side of the insertion member 37. The tail portion 37E.

The cut-out portions 85A, 86A, 87A respectively extend inwardly into the body of the insert 37 and have a generally concave and / or recessed shape. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3-22A, the cut-out portions 85A, 86A, 87A each have a smooth, concave inner curved surface (curved surface) that prevents propagation of ripping, tearing or cracking of the insert 37. ) In this embodiment, the cut-out portions 85A, 86A, 87A are each formed at least in part by concave curved surface edges forming an arc of at least 120 °. In addition, in one embodiment, at least one of the cut-out portions 85A, 86A, 87A is at least partially formed by a concave curved surface edge that forms an arc of at least 180 °. 8, 10 and 22A, at least the inner and outer cut-out portions 85A, 86A are at least partially formed by concave curved surface edges that each form an arc of at least 180 °. . In addition, in this embodiment each of the cut-outs 85A, 86A, 87A has a smoothly curved edge whose sides are located on the outer periphery of the insertion member at the inner, outer and front edges 85, 86, 87. The boundary is formed. In this embodiment one or both of the curved edges delimiting each of the cut-outs 85A, 86A, 87A form an arc of at least 90 °. The use of the cut-outs 85A, 86A, 87A in these positions and configurations may, for example, prevent the durability of the insertion member 133 by preventing propagation, tearing or cracking of the insertion member 133 as described above. Can increase lifespan. In this embodiment, the cut-outs 85A, 86A, 87A are located in the high stress region, where such break resistance is most advantageous. Insertion member 37 configured as shown in FIGS. 3-22B may have sufficient fatigue resistance to withstand stresses up to 20 MPa over at least 500,000 cycles.

In a further embodiment, the insert 37 may have different cut-outs and / or have cut-outs of the same location but of different shapes. For example, the insertion members 37 'shown in FIGS. 22C-22D are similar to the insertion members 37 of FIGS. 3-22B, but have cut-out portions 85A, 86A, 87A having a slightly different outer circumferential shape. ) In this embodiment, the inner cut-out portion 85A forms a small arc compared to the inner cut-out portion 85A of the insert member 37 of Figs. 3-22B. The front cut-out portion 87A of the present embodiment forms a less symmetrical and uniformly curved shape than the front cut-out portion 87A of the insertion member 37 of FIGS. 3-22B.

36-47 illustrate a further embodiment of the sensor system 412, 512 having the sensor system 12 and the insert member 37 shown in FIGS. 3-22B described above and an insert member 437, 537 of a different shape and configuration. ). Sensor systems 412 and 512 of FIGS. 36-47 include a number of structural and functional features common to sensor system 12 of FIGS. 3-22B. For example, sensor systems 412 and 512 include sensors 16 that are constructed and positioned almost identically to sensor system 12 of FIGS. 3-22B and function in a similar manner. As another example, sensor system 412, 512 includes a path 50 between two parallel fixed resistors 53, 54 and layers 66, 68 similar to the sensor system of FIGS. 3-22B. These and other common features will not be described again here for brevity.

In the embodiment of FIGS. 36-44, the insertion member 437 has cut-out portions 85A, 86A, 87A at a similar position relative to the insertion member 37 of FIGS. 3-22B, with the corresponding cut-out portion. 85A, 86A, 87A have slightly different outer circumferential shapes. In this embodiment, the inner cut-out portion 85A forms an arc smaller than the inner cut-out portion 85A of the insert member 37 of Figs. 3-22B. The front cut-out portion 87A of the present embodiment forms a deeper and larger arc than the front cut-out portion 87A of the insertion member 37 of FIGS. 3-22B. The outer cut-out portion 86A of the present embodiment is shallow and forms a small arc compared to the outer cut-out portion 86A of the insert member 37 of FIGS. 3-22B. In addition, the insertion member 437 in Figs. 36-44 has a heel portion 37C of substantially constant width and does not have an extended tail portion 37E.

In the embodiment of FIGS. 45-47, the insertion member 537 has cut-out portions 85A, 86A, 87A at a similar position relative to the insertion member 37 of FIGS. 3-22B, with the corresponding cut-out portion. 85A, 86A, 87A have slightly different outer circumferential shapes. In this embodiment, the inner cut-out portion 85A forms an arc smaller than the inner cut-out portion 85A of the insert member 37 of Figs. 3-22B. The outer cut-out portion 86A of the present embodiment is shallow and forms a small arc compared to the outer cut-out portion 86A of the insert member 37 of FIGS. 3-22B. The front edge 87 of the insertion member 537 of FIGS. 45-48 gradually angles from the first phalanx portion 37D toward the fifth metatarsal sensor 16c and directly into the front cut-out portion 87A. It forms an almost straight edge that extends. The resulting front cut-out portion 87A forms a small arc compared to the front cut-out portion 87A of the insert member 37 of Figs. 3-22B. In addition, the insertion member 537 in FIGS. 45-48 has a heel portion 37C of substantially constant width, and does not have an extended tail portion 37E. The lid 18 and many of the many components of the sensor system 512 of FIGS. 45-48 are not illustrated and / or mentioned herein, and these components are not described herein, and the components of the sensor system 12 and / or FIGS. It is understood that the structural component may be similar or identical (structurally and / or functionally) to the corresponding component of the sensor system 412 of -44.

The inserts 37, 37 ′, 437, 537 can have any number of different configurations, shapes, and structures, and can include an insert structure or a circumferential shape different from the sensor 16 of a different number and / or configuration. have. For example, any of the insertion members 37, 37 ′, 437, 537 described herein may have some or all of the structural features and other shapes, dimensions, such as cut-outs 85A, 86A, 87A, And may include functionality related to these structural features and other features in the form of periphery described above. In addition, any of the insertion members 37, 37 ′, 437, 537 described herein may include additional or different structural features that may provide other forms and / or functionality.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3-22B, the sensor 16 is a load and / or pressure sensor for measuring the pressure and / or load of the sole structure 130. The sensor 16 has a resistance that decreases as the pressure on the sensor 16 increases, thereby sensing the pressure on the sensor 16 through measurement of resistance through the port 14. The sensor 16 of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3-22B is elliptical or obround, allowing one sensor size to be utilized for several different shoe sizes. The sensor 16 of this embodiment has two contacts 40 each comprising a first contact 40 located on a first layer 66 and a second contact 42 located on a second layer 68. , 42). The diagram showing the first layer 66 is a top view, and the electronic structure (including the contact portion 40, the lid 18, etc.) is located at the bottom side of the first layer 66 and is transparent unless otherwise indicated. Or is observed through the translucent first layer 66. The contacts 40, 42 are located opposite each other and overlapping each other such that the pressure on the insert 37, for example by the user's feet, makes the contact between the contacts 40, 42 strong. The resistance of the sensor 16 decreases as the contact between the contacts 40, 42 increases, and the module 22 is configured to sense pressure based on a change in the resistance of the sensor 16. In one embodiment, the contacts 40, 42 may be formed by conductive patches printed on the first and second layers 66, 68, for example as in the embodiment of FIGS. 40 and 42 may be formed of the same or different materials. In addition, in one embodiment, the lid 18 is formed of a material having a higher conductivity and lower resistivity than the material (s) of the sensor contacts 40, 42. For example, the patch can be formed of carbon black or other conductive carbon material. Further, in one embodiment, the two contacts 40, 42 are formed of the same material or two materials of similar hardness that can reduce wear and abrasion due to different hardness of the materials in contact with each other. Can be. In this embodiment, the first contact portion 40 is printed on the bottom of the first layer 66 and the second contact portion 42 is printed on the upper side of the second layer 68 to thereby make contact between the contacts 40 and 42. Allow. The embodiment shown in FIGS. 3-22B includes a spacer layer 67, which spacer layer 67 contacts the spacers 67 through the spacer layer 67 while insulating the other portions of the first and second layers 66, 68 from each other. It has holes 43 located in each sensor 16 to allow contact of 40, 42. In one embodiment, each hole 43 is aligned with one of the sensors 16 to allow at least partial contact between the contacts 40, 42 of each sensor 16. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 7-18, since the hole 43 is smaller in area than the sensor contacts 40, 42, the contacts 40 are insulated from the outside of the contacts 40, 42 and the distribution leads 18A. , 42) are in contact with each other (see, eg, FIGS. 13, 35A-35B). In other embodiments, the holes 43 may be sized to allow contact between the contacts 40, 42 over the entire surface. It is understood that the size, dimensions, shape and structure of the sensor 16 and contacts 40, 42 may be changed while maintaining similar functionality in other embodiments. In addition, the same size sensor 16 can be utilized for different sized insertion members 37 in the case of different shoe sizes, in which case the dimensions of the sensor 16 relative to the overall dimensions of the insertion member 37 are different. It is understood that the size of the insert 37 may vary.

In other embodiments, sensor system 12 may include a sensor 16 of a different configuration than the sensor 16 of the embodiment of FIGS. 3-22B. For example, FIGS. 33-34 illustrate a further embodiment of the sensor system 212, 312 having a sensor 16 of a different configuration than the sensor 16 of the sensor system 12 of FIGS. 3-22B. 33-34, the contacts 40, 42 of the sensor 16 of FIGS. 33-34 have a different configuration than the contacts 40, 42 of the sensor 16 of the embodiments of FIGS. 3-22B. Have Other components and features of sensor systems 212 and 312 are similar or identical to those of sensor system 12 of FIGS. 3-22B, including any variations and alternative embodiments described herein. As another example, FIGS. 48-51 include one embodiment that includes a sensor 16 of the embodiment of FIGS. 3-22B and a sensor 16 having contacts 740, 742, 744 in a different configuration than the contacts 40, 42. An example sensor system 712 is illustrated. In further examples, the sensor 16 may employ other configurations that do not include carbon-based or similar contacts 40, 42 and / or may not function as the resistance sensor 16. Examples of such sensors include, among other examples, capacitive pressure sensors or strain measuring pressure sensors.

As further illustrated in FIGS. 3-22B, in one embodiment, the insert member 37 is configured to allow air flow through the insert member 37 during compression and / or bending of the insert member 37. Flow system 70. 9, 11, 13, 18, 22A-B, and 28-30 illustrate the components of the air flow system 70 in more detail. The air flow system 70 runs from the sensor 16 to one or more vents 72, from the sensor 16 to the first and second layers 66, 68 and through the vent (s) 72 during compression. It may include one or more air passages or channels that allow the flow of air outwardly of the insert 37. The air flow system 70 suppresses excessive pressure buildup during compression of the sensor 16 and ensures that the contacts 40 and 42 of the sensor 16 are always separated at various air pressures and altitudes, thereby ensuring more consistent performance. . Channel 71 may be formed between first and second layers 66 and 68. As illustrated in FIG. 18, the spacer layer 67 includes channels 71 formed therein, and air passes through these channels 71 between the first and second layers 66, 68 to provide a suitable vent ( S) 72. Vent 72 may include a filter 73 covering the vent in one embodiment as shown in FIG. 22B. These filters 73 can be configured to allow air, moisture, and debris to pass from the vent 72 and to inhibit moisture and debris from passing into the vent 72. In another embodiment, the insertion member 37 may not include the spacer layer 67, and the channel 71 may bring the layers 66, 68 together in a measurement pattern, for example by application of a non-sealing material. It can be formed by not sealing. Thus, the air flow system 70 may be considered to be integral with or directly formed by layers 66, 68 in this embodiment. In other embodiments, the air flow system 70 may include other numbers or configurations of air channels 71, vents 72, and / or other passages.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3-22B, 28 and 30, the air flow system 70 includes a plurality of air vents 72 and a plurality of sensors 16 respectively connecting one of the two vents 72 and one of the vents 72. An air channel 71. The spacer layer 67 includes holes 43 in each sensor in this embodiment, and the channel 71 is connected to the holes 43 so that air can flow away from the sensor 16 through the channel 71. Can be. In addition, in this embodiment, two of the sensors 16 are connected to each of the vents 72 through the channel 71. For example, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 7-18, first metatarsal sensor 16b extends through channel 71 extending into vent 72 slightly beyond the first metatarsal region of insertion member 37. And the first phalanx sensor 16a includes a channel 71 which likewise extends to the same vent 72 through a passageway comprising movement through the first metatarsal sensor 16b. In other words, the first phalanx sensor 16a has a channel 71 extending from the hole 43 in the first phalanx sensor 16a to the hole 43 in the first metatarsal sensor 16b, and the other The channel 71 extends from the first metatarsal sensor 16b to the vent 72. The fifth metatarsal sensor 16c and the heel sensor 16d share a common vent 72 located at the heel portion of the insertion member 37. One channel 71 extends rearward from the aperture 43 in the fifth metatarsal sensor 16c to the vent 72, and the other channel 71 vents from the aperture 43 in the heel sensor 16d. Extends forward to 72. Sharing the vents among the various sensors can reduce costs, in particular by avoiding the need for additional filters 73. In other embodiments, the air flow system 70 may have other configurations, such as those shown in FIGS. 22C-22D and described below. In further embodiments, each sensor 16 may have its own individual vent 72, or three or more sensors 16 may share the same vent 72.

Each vent 72 is formed as an opening on the bottom side of the second layer 68 (ie, the opposite layer of the first layer 66), which opening is shown in FIGS. 16-18 and 22A-22B. Allow outflow of air, moisture and / or debris from air flow system 70 as described. In other embodiments, the vent 72 may include several openings. In a further embodiment, the vent 72 may be further or instead formed by the opening of the first layer 66 to allow air to escape upward from the insertion member 37. In a further embodiment, the vent 72 is a side side of the insertion member 37, for example by extending the channel 71 to the edge such that the channel 71 opens out of the insertion member 37 through the edge. (Thin edges). Downward discharge of air, as in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3-22B, 28 and 30, makes it more difficult for debris to enter the vent 72. If present, bottom layer 69 includes holes 74 located below vent 72 to allow air flowing from vent 72 to pass through bottom layer 69. The hole 74 is more than the vent 72 to allow the filter 73 to be adhesively attached to the second layer 68 through the bottom layer 69 around the outer periphery of each vent 72 as described below. It's much bigger. In addition, in this embodiment, each vent 72 includes a reinforcing material 75 positioned around the vent 72 to add stability and strength to the material and to prevent breakage / rupture. In the illustrated embodiment, the reinforcing material 75 is formed of the same material as the lid 18 (eg, silver or other metallic ink) to facilitate printing, but the sensor contacts 40, 42 or the dielectric discussed below. It may be formed of the same material as the material.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3-22B, 28, and 30, the vent 72 is opened downward, and air passing through the vent 72 is down to the midsole 131 side and, if present, the foam member 138. ) Is passed to the side. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 3-22B, 28, and 30, the foam member 138 includes a cavity 76 positioned directly below the vent 72, which exits the vent 72. Outgoing air is configured to pass into each cavity 76. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3-5, 28 and 30, each cavity 76 is formed as a slot extending completely through the foam member 138, which slot is formed by punching, cutting or otherwise. Can be. In another embodiment, the cavity 76 is a recess extending through only a portion of the foam member 138 or, for example, the foam member through at least a portion of a structure (eg, strobel, midsole, etc.) under the foam member 138. May extend deeper than 138. In further embodiments, the sole structure may not include a foam member 138, and the cavity 76 may be at least partially by slots, recesses or other cavities such as structures in other sole members such as strobels, midsoles, or the like. Can be formed. As shown in FIG. 5, at least some of the cavities 76 may be circular in one embodiment, and may extend wider than the vent 72 to provide space for air exhaust. This configuration can allow air to pass from the vent 72 without obstruction from the foam member 138. In other embodiments, insertion member 37 may be positioned over another brush member (eg, a portion of midsole 131), which may include one or more cavities 76 as described above. For further embodiments, there may be no cavity, and air may be exhausted directly down into the foam member 138 or into another sole member. One or both of the cavities 76 may further have extensions that form passages 77 through which air can pass from the cavities 76. In the embodiments of FIGS. 3-5, 28, and 30, each of the cavities 76 includes channel portions 77 that extend outwardly from the cavities 76 and extend beyond the outer perimeter of the insertion member 37. In other words, the channel portion 77 of the cavity 76 extends outwardly from the vent 72 to the distal end 78 located outside the outer perimeter of the insertion member 37. If the foam member 138 has a recess 139 for receiving the insert 37, the distal end 78 of the channel portion 77 of the cavity 76 is outside the outer perimeter of the recess 139. It is understood that it can be located. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3-5, the distal end 78 extends to the edge of the foam member 138. This configuration allows air to pass through the cavity structure 130 to pass outwardly and / or outwardly from the foam member 138 through the channel portion 77 and out through the sole structure 130. . 28 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of this configuration, with arrows indicating air flow. 3-5, 28, and 30 are from the vent 72, while suppressing the movement of debris (e.g., dust, fibers, etc.) and preventing moisture from moving to and from the vent 72; Possibly allowing the flow of air back into the vent 72. The combined downward, outer and upward passages through which air must pass to enter and exit the vent 72 are configured to inhibit this movement and debris is distal end 78 of the cavity 76, such as a drain trap, in piping applications. Will be captured near.

In another embodiment, the distal end 78 may stop at a point within the foam member 138 and still outside the outer perimeter of the insertion member 37, where the air may be in the cavity 76 at the distal end 78. Allowing the same to be discharged from the top to provide the same or similar functionality. 36-38 and 47 show exemplary embodiments of this configuration. In the embodiments of FIGS. 36-38 and 47, the foot-contacting member 133 is hollow to allow air passage through the foot-contacting member 133, such as the passageway 79 shown in FIGS. 28 and 30. Passageway located about distal end 78 of 76. In further embodiments, at least some of the channel portions 77 may be tunnels within the foam member 138 rather than slits. In this configuration, the channel portion 77 includes an opening which allows the air through the tunnel portion and the tunnel to be discharged upwards, or the tunnel portion extends completely along the edge of the foam member 138 to allow side ventilation. Can be. 29 shows a cross section of an alternative embodiment in which the foam member 138 has a cavity 76 but no channel portion 77.

In addition, the foot-contacting member 133 extends through the foot-contacting member 133 located at the distal end 78 of the cavity 76 in the embodiments of FIGS. 3-5, 28, and 30. The above passage 79 is included. As shown in FIGS. 28 and 30, the passage 79 may be a pin-hole shaped passage 79 extending vertically through the foot-contacting member 133. In other embodiments, other types of passageways 79 may be used, including slits or grooves, wherein at least one passageway 79 extends upwardly through the thickness of the foot-contacting member 133 rather than through the foot-contacting member. It may extend outward to the side of 133. Passage 79 allows air exhausted outwards through vent 72 and through cavity 76 to pass out of sole structure 130 through foot-contacting member 133. In other embodiments, the foot-contacting member 133 may not include any passage (s) 79. The foot-contacting member 133 can still vent in a configuration without any passage (s) 79, for example, by using breathable foam or other breathable material for the construction of the foot-contacting member 33. .

As noted above, in one embodiment, the insertion member 37 may include one or more filters 73 that at least partially cover the vent (s) as seen in FIGS. 22B and 28-29. . The filter 73 can be considered as an optional permeable cover that covers the vent 72, which allows at least the passage of air from the vent 72 and prevents any unwanted material from passing into the vent. For example, in the embodiments of FIGS. 3-22B, 28, and 30, the filter 73 is selectively permeable to allow the inward and outward flow of air and the outward flow of moisture while preventing the inward flow of moisture and / or particles. It's a cover. One type of filter 73 that can achieve this function is a fluororesin porous membrane, such as a porous membrane comprising, for example, PTFE (ie, Teflon) fibers, which in one embodiment is 10-100 μm. It can be a porous membrane of thickness In the case of filter 73 comprising PTFE fibers, the high surface energy of PTFE causes it to roll round on the surface of filter 73 rather than permeate water. Adhesive may be included on one side such that 73 may be connected to the insertion member 37, and another material connected to the inner and outer opposing sides, such as polyester material, to provide shear strength for the porous membrane In the embodiment shown in Figures 3-22B, 28 and 30, the filter 73 is a second layer 68 around the outer periphery of the vent 72 to cover the vent 72. Adhesive is attached to the bottom side of the bottom layer 69. Figs. In the embodiment of Figures 8 and 30, the filter 73 includes a hole 74 that is much larger than the vent 72 to allow adhesive attachment to the second layer 68. In other embodiments, other types of Filter 73 may be used and / or filter 73 may be connected in other ways to insertion member 37. In further embodiments, filter 73 may not be used.

36-44 are provided with an insert member 437 comprising an air flow system 70 having a channel 71 and a vent 72 of a configuration different from the aforementioned insert member 37 shown in FIGS. 3-22B. The sensor system 412 is illustrated. 22C-22D and 45-47 illustrate an additional embodiment insertion member that includes an air flow system 70 having a channel 71 and vent 72 configured similarly to the insertion member 437 of FIGS. 36-44. (37 ', 537) is illustrated. The positions of the sensors 16a-16d in the embodiment of FIGS. 22C-22D are generally the same as in the embodiments of FIGS. 3-22B, 28, and 30, shown in FIG. 22C by several dashed lines over the spacer layer 67. It is. Such structural features are not described herein again for the sake of brevity. In the embodiment of the insertion member 437 of FIGS. 36-44, the first phalanx sensor 16a and the first metatarsal sensor 16b are connected to the same vent 72 by a channel 71 which is substantially the same as the configuration described above. do. The fifth metatarsal senso 16c and the heel sensor 16d are also connected to a common vent 72, which is the tq mouth member 437 rather than the heel, as in the embodiments of FIGS. 3-22B, 28 and 30. It is located in the fifth metatarsal part of. In this configuration, the heel sensor 16d includes a channel 71 and a fifth metatarsal sensor 16c that extend from the hole 43 in the heel sensor 16d to the hole 43 in the fifth metatarsal sensor 16c. ) And another channel 71 extending from the vent hole 72 to the vent hole 72. As shown in FIGS. 36-44, since the position of the vent 72 is different from the embodiment described above, the insertion member 437 specifically includes a brush that includes features applied to the vent 72 in that position. May be used in structure 130. 36-38 illustrate a foam member 138 that includes a sole structure 130 and a cavity 76 positioned to cooperate with the vent 72 of the insertion member 437. These cavities 76 function similarly to the cavities 76 of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3-5 described herein. For example, the foam member 138 extends forward over the outer circumferential edge of the insertion member 437 to allow air to escape from the vent 72 in the fifth metatarsal portion of the insertion member 437. The cavity (76) is provided in the fifth metatarsal portion of The foam member 138 also has a sole structure 130 extending rearward over the outer circumferential edge of the insertion member 437 to allow air to escape from the vent 72 at the first metatarsal portion of the insertion member 437. A cavity 76 is provided in the first metatarsal bone. The insertion members 37 ', 537 of FIGS. 22C-22D and 45-47 may utilize the foam member 138 having a cavity 76 located in a similar position in various embodiments. It is understood that cavities 76 in other positions and configurations may be used in other embodiments. In a further embodiment, the single sole structure 130 is a multiple cavity 76 arranged to be used for several different kinds of insertion members 37, 37 ′, 437, 537 with different positions of the vent 72. It may include. In this embodiment, at least some of the cavities 76 may not be used depending on the configuration of the insertion member 37 referenced below. In further embodiments, any of the features, features, etc., of the embodiments of the air flow system 70 described herein, as well as other embodiments of the sensor system 12, the insertion member 37 and / or the shoe 100, as well as other embodiments. May be combined with other embodiments of the air flow system 70.

In the embodiment of FIGS. 3-22B, as described above, the spacer layer 67 excludes areas where electrical contact is desired, such as in the path 50 and between the contacts 40, 42 of the sensor 16, for example. And insulate the conductive members / components on the first and second layers 66, 68 from each other. Spacer layer 67 is provided with holes 38 and 43 to form regions of desired electrical contact between layers 66 and 68. The components of the air flow system 70, in particular the channel 71, may provide a path for shorting or other undesirable electrical contact by one or more conductive members between the first and second layers 66, 68. . In one embodiment, the sensor system 12 may be formed of dielectric material 80 to prevent or prevent undesirable short circuits by one or more conductive members across the open area of the spacer layer 67, such as channel 71. It may include one or more patches. Such dielectric material 80 may be in the form of acrylic ink or other UV-curable ink or other insulating material suitable for the application. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 16-17, the insertion member 37 extends across the channel 71 to insulate the power distribution leads 18A located around the sensor contacts 40, 42 from each other. ) Contains several patches. As shown in FIGS. 16-17, the dielectric material 80 is connected to the top of the second layer 68 to cover the distribution leads 18A, but in other embodiments the dielectric material 80 is the first layer. Can be connected to or both the first and second layers can include a dielectric material 80. Spacer layer 67 may have a dielectric “bridge” over channel 71 in further embodiments. In addition, the dielectric material completely covers a portion of the distribution leads 18A and is wider than the width of the channel 71, which compensates for differences in movement or displacement or manufacturing tolerances of the spacer layer 67. In this embodiment, the insertion member 37 has one patch 80 on the rear side of the first phalanx sensor 16a and two patches 80 on the front and rear ends of the first metatarsal sensor 16b. And one patch 80 on the rear side of the fifth metatarsal sensor 16c, and one patch 80 on the front side of the heel sensor 16d, and one of the channels 71 and the power distribution lead ( 18A) includes a patch of dielectric material 80 at each intersection. In other embodiments, the insertion member 37 may be formed of dielectric material at other locations on the insertion member 37 to insulate other portions of the distribution leads 18A or other conductive members from shorting between the layers 66 and 68. It may include a patch. It is understood that the spacer layer 67 having other configurations, such as holes, holes, openings, etc., which differ in shape and / or location, may use the dielectric material 80 in other locations for insulation. As discussed herein, dielectric material 80 may be used elsewhere as a reinforcing or reinforcing material.

In the embodiment of FIGS. 3-22B, the port 14, the sensor 16, and the lid 18 form a circuit 10 on the insertion member 37. The port 14 comprises a plurality of terminals 11, of which four terminals 11 are each dedicated to one of the four sensors 16, one terminal 11 to the circuit 10. For applying a voltage, one terminal 1 is for voltage measurement. In this embodiment, sensor system 120 includes a pair of resistors 53, 54 located in one of layers 66, 68, respectively, a circuit on first layer 66 and a circuit on second layer 68. And a path 50 connecting the resistors. The resistors 53 and 54 provide a reference point for the module 22 to measure the resistance of each sensor 16, the module 22 from the active sensor 16. In addition, resistors 53 and 54 are arranged in parallel in circuit 10, which may result in changes in circuit 10 and / or leads 18 and And / or compensate for changes in the manufacturing process used to form the resistors 53, 54, such as changes in the conductivity of the ink used to print the sensor contacts 40, 42. In one embodiment, two resistors The equivalent resistance of (53, 54) is 1500 +/- 500 kPa In another embodiment, a single resistor (53, 54) or two resistors (53, 54) in series may be used. In a further embodiment, the resistors 53, 54 may be located at different positions on the insert member 37 or in the circuit of the module 22. More about the circuit 10 of the present embodiment The technical representation is described below and illustrated in FIG. 20.

20 illustrates a circuit 10 that can be used to sense and measure pressure in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The circuit 10 is individually dedicated to one of the power terminals 104a for applying a voltage to the circuit 10, one of the measuring terminals 104b for measuring the voltage and the sensors 16a-16d as described below. However, in this embodiment, six terminals 104a-104f including four sensor terminals 104c-104f indicating ground are included. Terminals 104a-104f have ports 14 representing terminals 11. In the illustrated embodiment, the fixed resistors 102a and 102b representing the resistors 53 and 54 are connected in parallel. The fixed resistors 102a, 102b may be physically located on separate layers. The equivalent resistance between terminals 104a and 104b is determined by the well-known equation (1):

=고정 저항기(102a)의 저항이고,

=고정 저항기(102b)의 저항이고,

=등가 저항이다.here,

= Resistance of the fixed resistor 102a,

= Resistance of the fixed resistor 102b,

= Equivalent resistance.

Electrically paralleling the fixed resistors 102a, 102b compensates for the variation in the manufacturing process used to form the fixed resistors 102a, 102b. For example, if the fixed resistor 102a has a resistance that deviates from the desired resistance, the deviation of the equivalent resistance determined by Equation 1 is minimized by the averaging effect of the fixed resistor 102b. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that two fixed resistors are provided for purposes of illustration only. Additional fixed resistors can be connected in parallel, and each fixed resistor can be formed in a different layer.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 20, the fixed resistors 102a, 102b are connected to the sensors 16a-16d. Sensors 16a-16d may be implemented by variable resistors that change resistance in response to pressure changes as described above. Each sensor 16a-16d may be implemented with multiple resistors. In one embodiment, each sensor 16a-16d is implemented with two variable resistors located on physically different layers and electrically connected in parallel. For example, as described above in connection with one embodiment, each sensor 16a-16d may include two contacts 40, 42 that are in strong contact with each other as the applied pressure is increased, and the sensor The resistance of 16a-16d can be reduced as the contact becomes stronger. As mentioned above, the parallel connection of resistors creates an equivalent resistance that minimizes variations that occur during the manufacturing process. In other embodiments, the contacts 40, 42 may be arranged in series. Sensors 16a-16d may be connected to ground via switches 108a-108d. The switches 108a-108d may be switches that are closed when connected to the sensor. In some embodiments, switches 108a-108d are implemented with transistors or integrated circuits.

In operation, a voltage level of, for example, 3 volts is applied to terminal 104a. Switches 108a-108d are switches that are closed when one of the sensors 16a-16d is connected to ground. When connected to ground, each sensor 16a-16d forms a voltage divider with a combination of fixed resistors 102a, 102b. For example, when switch 108a is closed, the voltage between terminal 104a and ground is split between the combination of fixed resistors 102a and 102b and sensor 16a. The voltage measured at terminal 104b changes as the resistance of sensor 16a changes. As a result, the pressure applied to the sensor 16a can be measured as the voltage level at the terminal 104b. The resistance of the sensor 16a is measured using the voltage applied to the sensor 16a in series with the coupled fixed resistors 104a, 104b having a known value. Similarly, selective closure switches 108b-108d will form a voltage level at terminals 104c-104f with respect to the pressure applied to sensors 16b-16d. It is understood that the connection between the sensors 16a-16d and the terminals 104c-104f may be different in other embodiments. For example, the sensors 16a-16d are connected to the other pins of the interface 20 of the insert member 37 of the left shoe as compared to the insert member 37 of the right shoe as shown in FIG. 12. In another embodiment, the voltage level may be applied in the opposite manner such that ground is located at terminal 104a and voltage is applied to terminals 104c-104f. In further embodiments, other circuit configurations can be used to achieve similar results and functionality.

Although the two resistors 53 and 54 have similar or identical structures in the illustrated embodiment, it is understood that the resistors may have different structures in other embodiments. Each resistor 53, 54 includes two sections 55, 56 spaced apart from each other and a bridge 57 located between the sections 55, 56 and connecting between the sections. 15 and 17 show the resistors 53 and 54 in more detail, one resistor 53 being seen from the top and the other resistor 54 being seen from the bottom. The sections 55 and 56 are electronic signals or currents entering the resistors 53 and 54 through one lead 18 across the bridge 57 between the sections 55 and 56 and then the remaining leads ( 18 may be connected to different leads 18 to escape therethrough. The sections 55, 56 are formed as an outer section 56 substantially enclosing the inner section 55 and the inner section 55 to provide a long transmission length between the sections 55, 56 in a small area. Can be. In this embodiment, the bridge 57 also substantially surrounds the inner section 55 and is substantially surrounded by the outer section 56. As shown and seen in FIGS. 15-17, the bridge 57 partially overlaps with both the inner section 55 and the outer section 56 to allow transmission through that bridge 57. In the embodiment of FIGS. 15 and 17, the inner section 55 is formed in a circular or nearly circular shape. The outer section 56 is at least partially formed by a semi-cyclic shape that at least partially surrounds the inner section 55 in this embodiment, and is spaced apart from the inner section around the inner edge of the ring. The bridge 57 of the present embodiment is at least partially formed in a semi-cyclic shape with inner and outer semicircular edges, the bridge 57 at least partially surrounding the inner section 55 and at least partially the section 55, 56) Fill the space between. As shown in FIG. 17, the inner edge of the bridge 57 covers the inner section 55 and the outer edge of the bridge 57 covers the outer section 56. In addition, in this embodiment, between the outer section 56 and the bridge 57, the lid 18 is connected to the inner section 55 and does not come into contact with the outer section 56 or the bridge 57 and the inner section ( A gap 58 is formed to allow passage away from 55. In other words, the semi-ringed ring shaped outer section 56 and the bridge 57 have ends that form a gap 58 therebetween. It is understood that the mutual shape, size and arrangement of sections 55 and 56 and bridge 57 may be different in other embodiments.

In one embodiment, the bridge 57 may be formed of a material that is more resistive than the sections 55, 56, and thus provide most of the resistance of each resistor 53, 54. The sections 55 and 56 may be formed at least partially of a highly conductive material, such as a silver material. In the embodiment of Figures 3-22B, the inner and outer sections 55, 56 are formed of the same material as the lid 18, such as printed silver-based or other metallic ink. In this embodiment, the bridge 57 is formed of the same material as the sensor contacts 40, 42, such as carbon black or other conductive carbon material. It is understood that the inner and outer sections 55, 56 and / or the bridge 57 may be formed of different materials in other embodiments.

Path 50 generally allows for continuous and / or uninterrupted electrical communication and passes electronic signals between first and second layers 66, 68. In the embodiment of FIGS. 3-22B, the port 14 is directly connected to the second layer 68, and the path 50 is the sensor contacts 40, 42 on the port 14 and the first layer 66, 68. It can function as a vertical path between). In the present embodiment, the path 50 comprises a conductive portion 51 on the first layer 66 and the second layer 68, the conductive portion 51 being in continuous contact with each other, thereby providing Provides continuous electrical communication between the two layers 66, 68 (see, eg, FIG. 21). In this embodiment the spacer layer 67 includes holes 38 that are aligned with the path 50 to allow continuous contact between the conductive portions 51 through the spacer layer 67. In addition, in the embodiment of FIGS. 3-22B, each of the conductive portions 51 is divided into two sections 52 separated by a long gap 59 (FIG. 15). These conducting sections 52 have a substantially semi-circular shape in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3-22B, and the conducting portion 51 has a shape of approximately circular. The sections 52 on the first layer 66 have substantially the same shape, size, and location as the sections 52 on the second layer 68, such that the sections in each layer 66, 68 are different layers. Contact the corresponding section 52 at 66, 68. The gaps 59 on the two layers 66, 68 are in a substantially aligned state in this embodiment. In other words, in the conductive portion 51, neither the left section 52 nor the right section 52 is in direct contact, and the left section 52 of the conductive portion 51 is coupled to each other and the right section 52 of the conductive portion 51 It can be arranged to be coupled to each other. This configuration may alternatively be described as forming two separate side-by-side paths between the first and second layers 66, 68, with each section 52 having a separate conducting portion that forms a respective path. Can be considered to be. The conductive portion 51 of the path 50 is formed of a conductive material, and in one embodiment, the conductive portion 51 may be formed of the same material as the lid 18, such as silver-based ink or other metallic ink. In other embodiments, the path 50 and its components described herein may have different sizes, shapes, configurations, or locations, and may be formed of different materials.

Path 50 may be at least partially enclosed by, or bounded by, the reinforcing structure 60 in one embodiment to provide structural support and / or effect. As shown in FIGS. 7-17 and 21, the conductive portion 51 is surrounded by a substantially annular reinforcement 60. In this embodiment, the reinforcement 60 is not completely annular because the gap 59 extends through the reinforcement 60, and the reinforcement 60 is connected to the conducting portion 51 by passing the lead 18 in another embodiment. May comprise additional gaps. In this embodiment, the reinforcement 60 functions to support the contact between the conductive portions 51 to achieve maximum contact between the conductive portions 51. 21 shows this configuration in more detail. FIG. 21 is in fact at least partial view and it is understood that the relative sizes of the components shown in FIG. 21 may be exaggerated for effect and understanding. In addition, FIG. 21 does not show the bottom layer 69 for brevity in showing the other layers 66, 68. Typically, the spacer layer 67 separates the conductive portions 51 such that the layers 66 and 68 are deflected toward each other in the path 50 so that the conductive portions 51 contact each other.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 21, the apertures 38 in the spacer layer 67 allow the conductive portions 51 to deflect toward one another and to contact each other. The first and second layers 66, 68 are evacuated to achieve this contact, for example by passing a roller over the assembled insert 37 at the location of the path 50 to remove excess air. Or otherwise compressed together. Deflection of the layers 66, 68 towards each other forms an annular transition region 61 in one or both of the layers 66, 68 near the rim of the aperture 38, in which layer or layers 66 and 68 are biased toward each other. In this embodiment, the transition region 61 is formed by outer and inner annular break lines 61a and 61b so that the transition region 61 is between the break lines 61a and 61b and the conducting portion 51 is an inner wave. It exists in disconnection 61b. In this configuration, the first and second layers 66, 68 are generally horizontal outside the outer break line 61a and within the inner break line 61b, and the first and second layers 66, 68 are transitioned. Inclining toward each other in region 61 allows contact between the conducting portions 51. The hole 38 is larger in size than the reinforcement 60 such that the reinforcement 60 is positioned adjacent the edge of the hole 38. In this configuration, the increased stiffness of the stiffener 60 tends to cause the layers 66, 68 to rapidly transition from horizontal to at least partially vertical at the location of the stiffener 60, so that the stiffener 60 transitions. There is a tendency to form the area 61.

As shown in FIG. 21, the position of the transition region 61 in the reinforcement 60 allows for maximum contact between the conducting portions 51 within the region 62 bounded by the transition region 61. In one embodiment, the majority of the conducting portions 51 are in continuous contact with each other through the holes 38 inside the region 62 bounded by the transition region 61. In another embodiment, the conducting portions 51 are in continuous contact with each other through the holes 38 over all or almost all of the region 62 bounded by the transition region 61. This continuous contact helps to ensure that path 50 and circuit 10 function properly without interruption. Adhesive may be used at or near the path 50 to enhance contact between the layers 66, 68 in the path 50. The reinforcement 60 may be formed of any material having adequate stiffness, and in one embodiment may be formed of a material of greater rigidity than the material of the conducting portion 51. One example of such a material is carbon black or other carbon-based material, but in other embodiments, other materials can be used, including other types of printable materials.

The stiffener 60 may help to achieve continuous contact between the conducting portions 51 in other ways. In the embodiment of Figs. 3-22B, the reinforcement 60 is formed by a carbon-based ink capable of absorbing light of various wavelengths better than the metal-based ink of the conductive portion 51 which may exhibit a reflective tendency. The ink on the layers 66 and 68 can be cured using infrared radiation, and in this embodiment the reinforcement 60 can absorb a greater amount of infrared radiation than the conducting portion 51. This absorption tends to heat the areas of the layers 66, 68 directly below the stiffener 60, causing a temperature gradient along the thickness of the layers 66, 68, thereby causing the layers 66, 68 to reinforce the stiffener 60. ) The printed surface is warmer and the opposite surface is colder. This temperature gradient in turn can cause differential expansion / contraction on opposite surfaces of the layers 66, 68 near the reinforcement 60 such that the warm surface in the reinforcement 60 shrinks compared to the opposite surface of the reinforcement 60. This allows regions of each layer 66, 68 within the stiffener 60 (ie, at the conductive portion 51) to slightly project upward or concave upwards. This protrusion of the layers 66, 68 extends the conducting portions 51 on the layers 66, 68 to one another so that the contact between the conducting portions 51 is enhanced so that the continuity of the conducting portions 51 in the reinforcement 60 can be enhanced. It can assist in achieving normal contact or near continuous contact. The protrusion of layers 66 and 68 can be further or alternatively reinforced by mechanical stamping or other pre-deformation action to effect the protrusion or depression effect. Bonding methods, such as ultrasonic spot welding or other spot welding, may additionally or alternatively be used to enhance contact between the conducting portions 51. In one embodiment, ultrasonic spot welding may be performed in a waffle pattern between the conducting portions 51 to keep the conducting portions 51 in engagement with each other.

Gap 59 in path 50 may perform several functions. One function that can be done by the gap 59 is to electrically separate between the sections 52 of the path 50 to form separate connections between the layers 66, 68. Another function that can be performed by the gap 59 is to improve the durability of the path 50 while the insertion member 37 is bent. Typically, the user's foot is from the fifth tibia (also referred to as the fifth tibia head or the fifth metatarsal phalanx) to the first tibia (also referred to as the first tibia head or the first tibia phalanx). There is a tendency to "roll". In the embodiment of FIGS. 3-22B, the path 50 is located near the second and / or third metatarsal portion of the insertion member 37, so that a roll of the user's foot is passed directly above the path 50. . Repeated rolling of this property can bend the conductive portion 51, which in turn can cause abrasion, cracking, separation, and the like. The gap 59 may function as a bend point to minimize bending of the conducting portion 51 when properly aligned. In the embodiment of FIGS. 3-22B, the gap 59 is approximately perpendicular to the direction of a typical roll of the user's foot, ie perpendicular to a line extending between the fifth metatarsal and first metatarsal portions of the insert 37. Aligned. In one embodiment, an imaginary line L (see FIG. 10) can be drawn between the sensor 16b of the first metatarsal bone and the sensor 16c of the fifth metatarsal bone, with a gap 59 at this line L. FIG. It can be aligned within +/- 45 ° vertically or in a state perpendicular to the line L. The line L shown in FIG. 10 is drawn between the front edge (eg, front center) of the first metatarsal sensor 16b and the rear edge (rear center) of the fifth metatarsal sensor 16c. In one embodiment, the gap 59 (if present) may be positioned differently, especially if the path 50 is located in another area of the insert 37.

52-56 illustrate a sensor system 612 of another embodiment that includes an insertion member 37, similar to the sensor system 12 and insertion member 37 of FIGS. 3-22B. In the embodiment of FIGS. 52-56, the path 50 does not include a stiffener 60 as in the embodiment of FIGS. 3-22B. In addition, in this embodiment, the conductive portion 51 of the path 50 is expanded to cover the area covered by the stiffener 60 of the embodiment of FIGS. 3-22B. In other words, in the present embodiment, the conductive portion 51 extends almost to the edge of the hole 38 aligned with the path 50, and a portion of the conductive portion 51 is shown in FIG. 56 with the transition region 61. Is located within. In the embodiment of FIGS. 52-56, the expanded size of the conductive portion 51 may provide a more continuous and continuous path 50 by providing a larger surface area for potential contact between the conductive portions 51. have. In another aspect, the path 50 shares structural and functional features with the embodiment of the path 50 shown in FIGS. 3-22B and described elsewhere. Such similar structures and functions are not mentioned again for brevity. In one embodiment, mechanical stamping or other pre-deformation operations may be used to enhance the contact between the conductive portions 51 as described above by providing a protruding or recessing effect of the reinforcements 66, 68. Bonding methods, such as ultrasonic spot welding, may additionally or alternatively be used to enhance the contact between the conducting portions 51 as described above.

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

48-51 are other embodiments of the sensor system 712 configured differently from the sensor systems 12, 412, 512, 612 described herein and having different modes of operation than the sensor systems 12, 412, 512, 612 described herein. ). The sensor system 712 of FIGS. 48-51 includes many structural and functional features common to the sensor system 12 described above and illustrated in FIGS. 3-22B. For example, in the embodiment of FIGS. 48-51 the appearance of the insert 37, the alternative position of the sensor 16, and the configuration of the air flow system 70 are in the form of the insert 37 in FIGS. 3-22B. , An alternative location of the sensor 16, and similar or identical configuration to the air flow system 70. These and other such common features will not be mentioned again here for brevity.

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

The structure of the sensor 16 in the sensor system 712 of FIGS. 48-51 is similar to the sensor 16 of the embodiment of FIGS. 3-22B. In this embodiment, the combined first and second contacts 740, 742 are configured such that the first and second contacts 740, 742 are electrically separated from each other and the third contact 744 is shown in FIGS. 3-22B. Structurally similar to the contact 42 on the second layer 68 of the embodiment of FIGS. 3-22B except that it is structurally similar to the contact 40 on the first layer 66 of the embodiment. In other embodiments, the sensor 16 and / or contacts 740, 742, 744 may have other configurations. For example, in one embodiment, the contact 744 on the first layer 66 may be a single patch of carbon-based ink.

In the embodiment of the sensor system 712 of FIGS. 48-51, the first and second contacts 740, 742 are electrically separated from each other, and the third contact 744 is the first and second contacts 740, The third contact 744 is configured to be in contact with the first and second contacts 740 and 742 when a vertical pressure is applied to the sensor 16. In this configuration, the signal from port 14 passes two electrodes of each sensor 16 on second layer 68 by passing through electrode 744 of sensor 16 on first layer 66. Is passed between 740 and 742. Thus, the resistivity of the sensor 16 is determined by the contact between the contacts 740, 742 on the second layer 68 and the electrode 744 on the first layer 66, and the pressure applied to the sensor 16. The relationship between the resistance of the sensor 16 is similar to that of the sensor 16 of the embodiment of FIGS. 3-22B described herein and illustrated in FIG. 27. The sensitivity range, operating pressure, and other functional characteristics of the sensor 16 of FIGS. 48-51 may be similar to the characteristics of the sensor 16 of the sensor system 12 of FIGS. 3-22B.

The connection at port 14 in the sensor system 712 of FIGS. 49-51 includes a power terminal 104a, a measurement terminal 104b and four sensor terminals 104c-104f, as shown in the embodiment of FIGS. Similar to in, and schematically illustrated in FIG. 20. Measurement of resistivity / resistance can be completed in the same or similar manner as described above. The circuit of the embodiment of FIGS. 48-51 is similar to that shown in FIG. 20, but this embodiment uses only one fixed resistor 53 instead of two parallel fixed resistors 53, 54 as in the embodiment of FIGS. 3-22B. Include. In addition, each sensor 16 of the embodiment of FIGS. 3-22B may be considered to be five parallel resistors, while each sensor 16 of the sensor system 712 of FIGS. 49-51 has three additional sensors. It can be considered to be two parallel resistors (contacts 742) arranged in series with the parallel resistors (contacts 740). In other embodiments, the sensor system 712 of FIGS. 48-51 may be wired to have two fixed parallel resistors or any other resistor configuration described herein. It is understood that the path 50 between the layers 66, 68 is not necessary in this embodiment because the leads 18 connected to the port 14 are only present in the second layer 68. Accordingly, the spacer layer 67 in the sensor system 712 of FIGS. 48-51 may not include holes 38 as in the spacer layer 67 of FIGS. 3-22B.

Insert member 37 may be configured by stacking various components on a polymer (eg, PET) film. In one embodiment, the insertion member 37 includes a distribution lead 18A, a conducting portion 51 of the path 50, inner and outer sections 55 and 56 of the resistors 53 and 54, and the like, for example, It is constructed by first depositing a conductive metallic material on each layer 66, 68 by printing the leads 18 in a traced pattrn. Subsequently, additional carbon material is laminated on each layer 66, 68, for example by printing, to contact 40, 42, reinforcement 60 of path 60, bridge 57 of resistors 53, 54. Etc. can be formed. Any additional component, such as any dielectric portion, can then be stacked. Layers 66 and 68 may be printed on a PET sheet in one embodiment and cut after printing to form an outer circumferential shape.

The port 14 is configured to deliver data collected by the sensor 16 to an external source in one or more known ways. In one embodiment, port 14 is a universal communication port configured to communicate data in a universally readable format. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3-22B, the port 14 includes an interface 20 for connection to the electronic module 22 illustrated in connection with the port 14 of FIG. 3. In addition, in this embodiment, the port 14 cooperates with the housing 24 for insertion of the electronic module 22 located in the recess 135 of the middle arc or midfoot region of the midsole 131. As shown in FIGS. 7-16, the sensor leads 18 are connected to the port 14 by meeting together to form an integrated interface 20 at the terminal 11. In one embodiment, the integrated interface may comprise a separate connection, for example connecting the sensor leads 18 to the port interface 20 via a plurality of electrical contacts. In other embodiments, sensor leads 18 may be integrated to form, for example, pluggable interfaces or other configurations of external interfaces, and in further embodiments, sensor leads 18 may form non-integrated interfaces. Where each lead 18 has its own individual terminal 11. As also described below, the module 22 may include an interface 23 for connection to the port interface 20 and / or the sensor leads 18.

In the embodiment of FIGS. 3-22B, the interface 20 takes the form of electrical contacts or terminals 11. In one embodiment, the terminal 11 is formed on a tongue or extension 21 extending from one of the layers 66, 68 into the hole 27 provided for the housing 24. The extension integrates the ends of the leads 18 into a single area to form the interface 20. In the embodiment of FIGS. 3-22B, the extension 21 extends from the second layer 68 into the hole 27 and then bends down in the housing 24, thereby forcing the terminal 11 into the housing 24. And allows the interface 20 to be accessible within the housing 24. In order to increase the length of the extension 21 and to allow the extension 21 to bend downward and extend downward into the housing 24, the second layer 68 is provided on both sides of the extension 21 in this embodiment. The slit 83 is further provided. The round end of the slit 83 may prevent the formation and / or propagation of cracks and tears in the material of the second layer 68 near the extension 21. Extension 21 may pass through another space below the flange 28 and below the slot or lip 28 of the housing 24 to allow it to extend into the housing 24. If the flange 28 is a separate part, as in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 31-32, the extension 21 may have the flange 28 and the cylinder 29 before the flange 28 is connected to the cylinder 29. It can be inserted in between. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3-22B, the extension 21 is formed of the same polymer film material as the second layer 68 and is integral with the second layer 68 (eg, formed in a single piece). ). In another embodiment, extension 21 may extend from first layer 66 and may include a portion connected to both layers 66 and 68, and / or one or both layers. It can be formed as a separate piece connected to.

The extension 21 as shown in FIGS. 3-22B and 32 includes a reinforcement 81 connected to the extension to reinforce a portion of the extension 21. This reinforcement 81 can be selected from a number of different materials that provide strength, hardness, wear resistance, and other reinforcement. For example, the reinforcement 81 may be formed of the same material as the dielectric material 80 used to insulate between the layers 66, 68 in the channel 71, such as acrylic ink or other UV-curable ink. . In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3-22B and 32, the reinforcement 81 is in the form of an elongated strip extending midway along the length of the extension 21 over the entire width of the extension 21. In this embodiment, the extension 21 extends from the second layer 68 into the hole 27, and the reinforcement 81 is stacked on top of the extension 21 and across the end of the lid 18. Is extended. The reinforcement 81 may have a strength that is greater than the strength of the material of the lead 18 in one embodiment, and in other embodiments may be greater than the film material that forms the layer.

In the configuration illustrated in FIGS. 3-22B and 32, the extension 21 bends down into the recess 135 and into the housing 24 as described above to place the terminal 11 in the housing 24. And form the interface 20 in the housing 24. As shown in FIG. 32, the extension 21 includes a bent region 84 in which the extension 21 is bent down at the outer circumferential edge of the housing 24, thereby extending the side wall 25 of the housing 24. Extends down along. The bend region 84 is generally linear and extends transversely across the extension 21. In the illustrated embodiment, the reinforcement 81 extends 21 such that the strip of reinforcement 81 extends transversely in parallel to the bend region 84 across the extension 21 in the bend region 84. Is located on. In one embodiment, the reinforcement 81 is formed as an elongate rectangular strip and has a width sufficient to cover the entire bend area 84. In this position, the reinforcement 81 performs various functions. One such function is to prevent the film of the lid 18 and / or extension 21 from being damaged due to the bending of the extension 21. Another such function is to prevent the film of the lid 18 and / or extension 21 from abrasion and abrasion, such as to prevent the film of the bend region 84 from peeling off relative to the housing 24 in the bent region 84, for example. It is. A further such function is to provide the extension 21 with rigidity and / or strength. Other advantages of the stiffener 81 will be apparent to those skilled in the art. In other embodiments, the reinforcement 81 may vary in position, shape, or configuration, or may additionally or alternatively use the reinforcement 81 in other locations to provide strength, stiffness, wear resistance, and the like to other components of the sensor assembly 12. It is understood that it can be given. In further embodiments, the reinforcement 81 may not be used or the reinforcement 81 may cover most of the extension 21.

The housing 24 may include a connection structure such as connector pins or springs (not shown) to establish a connection between the interface 20 and the module 22. In one embodiment, the port 14 includes an electrical connector 82 that forms an interface 20 that may include contacts that are separately attached to the terminal 11 as described above and illustrated in FIG. 32. The connector 82 can be connected to the extension 21 and the terminal 11 via a crimping connection. The interface 20 of this embodiment comprises seven terminals: four terminals 11 are each individually connected to one of the sensors 16, and one terminal 11 is a measurement terminal (104b in FIG. 20). One terminal functions as a power terminal (104a in FIG. 10) for applying a voltage to the circuit 10. As mentioned above, the power terminal may instead be configured as a ground terminal in another embodiment, where the sensor terminals 104c-104f of FIG. 20 are configured as power terminals. As shown in FIG. 12, the configuration of the sensor 16, the lid 18, and other components of the sensor system 12 may be different between the left and right foot insertion members 37, with the sensor 16 being right. It may be connected to the other terminal 11 at the left insertion member 37 as compared to the insertion member 37. In this embodiment, the first four terminals 11 are still retained for connection to the sensor 16 (although in a potentially different order), where the fifth, sixth and seventh terminals 11 are left and right. Both insertion members 37 have the same function. This configuration may be different in other embodiments. In another embodiment, the module 22 may be specifically configured for use with the left or right shoe 100 and the insert 37. The seventh terminal can be used for powering an accessory device such as a unique identification chip. In one embodiment, the sixth and seventh terminals 11 extend on the tail 21A extending from the end of the extension 21. The accessory device can be powered by being connected across two terminals 11 on the rear part 21A. The accessory device may comprise a small printed circuit board (PCB) having a memory chip attached to the trailing portion 21A through anisotropic contact formation. In one embodiment, the accessory chip may be such as whether the shoe 100 is a right shoe or a left shoe, men's or women's shoes, certain kinds of shoes (eg, running shoes, tennis shoes, basketball shoes, etc.), and other kinds of information. Substantial information, of course, may include information that uniquely identifies a shoe 100 product, such as a serial number. This information can be read by module 22 and then used for analysis, presentation, and / or organization of data obtained from the sensors. The accessory device may be sealed in the housing 24 via, for example, epoxy or other material.

The port 14 is adapted to connect to a variety of different electronic modules 22, which electronic modules may include simple or more complex features, such as memory components (eg, flash drives). It is understood that module 22 may be a complex component, such as a personal computer, portable device, server, or the like. The port 14 is configured to send data collected by the sensor 16 to the module 22 for storage, transmission and / or processing. In some embodiments, port 14, sensor 16 and / or other components of sensor system 12 may be configured for processing of data. Port 14, sensor 16, and other components of sensor system 12 may additionally or alternatively send data directly to external device 110 or a plurality of modules 22 and / or external device 110. It can be configured to. Port 14, sensor 16 and / or other components of sensor system 12 may include appropriate hardware, software, and the like for these purposes. Examples of housings and electronic modules in footwear products are illustrated in US Patent Application No. 11 / 416,458, published as US Patent Application Publication No. 2007/0260421, which is incorporated herein by reference in part. Port 14 is illustrated as having an electronic terminal 11 that forms an interface 20 for connection to module 22 in another embodiment, while port 14 has one or more additional or alternative communication interfaces. It may include. For example, port 14 may include a USB port, a firewall port, a 16-pin port, or some other physical contact, or may include WiFi, Bluetooth, near field communication, RFID, Bluetooth Low Energy, Zigbee, or other wireless communication. It may include a wireless or contactless communication interface, such as an interface for a technique or an interface for an infrared or other optical communication technique. In other embodiments, sensor system 12 may include one or more modules 22 or two or more ports 14 configured for communication with external device 110. This configuration may alternatively be considered to be a single distribution port 14. For example, each of the sensors 16 may have a separate port 14 for communication with one or more electronic modules 22 as in the embodiment of the sensor system 812 shown in FIG. 61. Individual ports 14 may be configured for wireless communication using wireless or contactless communication as described above. In one embodiment, each port 14 comprises an RFID chip comprising an antenna, and in another embodiment the port (s) 14 utilizes the user's body as a transmission system to transfer information from the user's foot to the user. To a module 22 located elsewhere on the body. In this embodiment the port 14 is connected to the sensor 16 by a lead 18, the lead 18 of the breaking line in FIG. 61 representing the lead 18 on the lower layer of the insertion member 37. It is understood that. The port 14 may in some embodiments be located between the layers of the insert 37, in a hole in the insert 37 or above or below the insert 37. It is understood that multiple or distribution port (s) 14 can be used such that a combination of two or more sensors can be connected to a single port 14. In further embodiments, sensor system 12 may include one or more ports 14 having other configurations, which may include a combination of two or more configurations mentioned herein.

Module 22 may further include one or multiple communication interfaces for connection to external device 110 for transmitting data for processing purposes as described below or as shown in FIGS. 6 and 23. . Such an interface may include any of the contacted or contactless interfaces described above. In one example, module 22 includes at least a foldable USB connection for computer connection and / or for charging the battery of module 22. As another example, the module 22 may be configured to be in contact or contactless connection with a mobile device such as a watch, mobile phone, portable music player, or the like. The module 22 may be configured to communicate wirelessly with the external device 110, through which the module 22 may be maintained in the shoe 100. Thus, in another embodiment, the module 22 may be configured to be removed from the shoe 100 to be connected directly to the external device 110, for example for data transfer by the aforementioned foldable USB connection. In a wireless embodiment, the module 22 may be connected to an antenna for wireless communication. The antenna may have a shape, size, and position that allows it to be used at the appropriate transmission frequency for the selected wireless communication method. In addition, the antenna may be located internally within module 22 or external to the module. In one example, the sensor system 12 itself (eg, the conducting portion of the lid 18 and the sensor 16) may be used to form an antenna. Module 22 may be further arranged, positioned and / or configured to further enhance antenna acceptability, and in one embodiment may use a portion of the user's body as an antenna. In one embodiment, the module 22 may be permanently mounted in the shoe 100 or, alternatively, may be removable at the user's option and left in the shoe 100 if desired. In addition, as described further below, module 22 may be removed and replaced with another module 22 that is programmed and / or configured to collect and / or utilize data from sensor 16 in other ways. Can be. If the module 22 is permanently mounted in the shoe 100, the sensor system 12 may further include an external port (not shown) that allows data transfer and / or battery charging, such as a USB or firewall port. It is understood that the module 22 can be configured for both contacted and contactless communication.

Port 14 may be located in a variety of locations without departing from the present invention, but in one embodiment port 14 may be a shoe product such as a footer and / or otherwise in a shoe 100 product, for example, during athletics activities. And / or are provided in a predetermined position and orientation to prevent or minimize contact with the wearer's foot and / or irritation of the wearer's foot when using the. The placement of port 14 in FIGS. 3-4 illustrates one such example. In another embodiment, the port 14 is located near the heel or instep portion of the shoe 100. Other features of the shoe 100 structure may help or prevent contact between the wearer's foot and the port 14 (or elements connected to the port 14) to improve overall comfort of the shoe 100 structure. . For example, as described above and illustrated in FIGS. 3-5, the foot-contacting member 133 is provided over the port 14 to cover the port 14 at least partially between the wearer's foot and the port 14. May provide a padding layer. Additional features may be used to reduce contact between the wearer's foot and the port and to control any unpleasant feeling of the port at the wearer's foot. If desired, opening to port 14 may be provided through the top surface of foot-contacting member 133 without departing from the present invention. This configuration includes, for example, additional comfort when the housing 24, the electronic module 22, and other features of the port 14 include a structure for adjusting the feeling at the user's foot and / or are formed from such a material. And when the feeling control element is provided. Any of the various features described above that helps or prevents contact between the wearer's foot and the housing (or elements contained within the housing) to improve overall comfort of the shoe structure can be provided without departing from the present invention. The feature includes other known methods and techniques as well as the various features described above in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

62-76 disclose another view of port 14 of one embodiment configured for use with insertion member 37. FIGS. Similar structures described above will be indicated by the same or similar reference numerals. The present embodiment and variations of the embodiment will be described in detail below. As discussed and disclosed herein, the port 14 forms or supports an interface 20 for operative connection with the module 22. Module 22 is also described in more detail below. Through an operable connection between the port 14 and the module 22, the data sensed by the sensor assembly 12 can be acquired, stored and / or processed for further use and analysis.

As can be seen from FIGS. 62-64, the port 14 is generally supported in the middle of the insertion assembly 37. The port 14 includes a housing 24 that supports the interface assembly 156. As will be explained in more detail below, the interface assembly 156 is operatively connected to an extension 21 with an upper lid 18 at the insertion member 37. By this connection, the interface 20 is established for further operative connection with the interface 23 of the module 22.

As further illustrated in FIGS. 65-67, the housing 24 of this embodiment includes a base member 140 and a cover member 142. Base member 140 may correspond to a tubular portion 29 as described above forming sidewall 25 and base wall 26. The first end of base member 140 has a generally rectangular configuration for receiving extension 21 of insertion member 37. The second end of the base member 140 has a rounded configuration. Base member 140 forms a first section 144 and a second section 146. The first section 144 corresponds to the shape of the module 22 and is sized to receive the module, and the second section 146 is sized to receive and support the interface assembly 156. The second section 146 further includes first and second outer slots 148, 150 in communication with each other. The first outer slot 148 extends wider and larger than the second outer slot 150. The housing 24 further defines a protrusion 151 at the second end to hold the module 22 in the housing 24. Finger recess 29A is positioned adjacent protrusion 151. The base member 140 further includes a pair of receiving portions 152 that cooperate with the cover member 142.

As further illustrated in FIGS. 66-67, the cover member 142 includes a center hole 153 sized to receive the module 22. The cover member 142 further includes a beam member 154 at the first end, and the second end of the cover member 142 has a rounded configuration. As described, the beam member 154 protrudes over a portion of the first section 144 when connected to the base member 140. The bottom surface of the cover member 142 has a receiving portion on the base member 140 as described. And a pair of protruding posts 155 that cooperate with 152. The outer circumference of the cover member 142 forms a lip or flange 28. In an exemplary embodiment, the cover member 142 is a housing 24 And a protruding wall formed by air conditioning the side wall 25. In this configuration, the base member 140 forms a ledge on the side wall to receive the protruding wall on the cover member 142. do.

68-71 further show the components of the interface assembly 156. The interface assembly 156 has a carrier 157 supporting an electrical connector 82 as outlined with reference to FIG. 32. The electrical connectors 82 each have ends that form contacts that are elastically supported by the carrier 157 to operate in cooperation with corresponding contacts on the module 22. Electrical connector 82 has a bent portion around carrier 157 and has a proximal end having a plurality of fingers 158 thereon. In one embodiment, four fingers 158 are associated with each connector 82, and the fingers 158 may be arranged in a flower petal configuration. As described in more detail below, interface assembly 156 may further include a fill material or injection component 159. The end 82A of the connector is understood to be snap off in a predetermined position prior to connection with the extension 21 of the insert 37 as shown in FIG. 69.

As shown in FIGS. 72-73, the interface assembly 156 is operatively connected to an extension 21 having a lid 11 on top of the insertion member 37. For this purpose, the finger 158 is connected to the extension 21, where the contact between the lead 11 and the connector 82 is made. This combination can be seen and understood from FIG. 72 and can also be understood from FIG. 32. In an exemplary embodiment, the fingers 158 protrude through the extensions 21, and each of the plurality of fingers 158 extends through the extensions 21 and joins the extensions in a manner surrounding the periphery. As further illustrated in FIG. 72, it is understood that the trailing portion 21A can be further folded to be positioned adjacent to the backside of the extension 21. As discussed, the tail 21A with the sixth and seventh connectors may have a PCB member 90 connected to the tail and functioning as described above, which PCB member may be a unique identification chip. . It is understood that the extension 21 and the carrier 157 are positioned to protrude from the upper plane of the insertion member 37. As further illustrated in FIG. 74, the carrier 157 is located in the first outer slot 148 of the base member 140 of the housing 24. The carrier 157 is formed to be sized to fit snugly within the first outer slot 148. The connector 82 is directed into the first section 144 formed by the housing 24. As can be seen from FIGS. 75-76, it is understood that the fill material or injection component 159 can be injected into the second outer slot 150 through the opening 150A (FIG. 65). Injection component 159 may be a thermoset plastic in an exemplary embodiment, and may be one or more other materials. The injection component 159 fills the second outer slot 150 and provides a protective connection by extending around the area where the extension 21 is connected to the connector 82 held by the carrier 157. In one embodiment, the injection component 159 maintains the desired degree of stretch to strengthen the connection between the extension 21 and the port 14. The injection component 159 can resist shock and vibration while suppressing the ingress of moisture and corrosion agents. It is understood that the base member 140 is located in the insertion member 37 and the receiving portion 152 is aligned with the corresponding opening 28B through the insertion member 37. The cover member 142 has an insertion member 37 positioned on the top surface, and the protruding post 155 is fitted in the receiving portion 152 (Figs. 62-67). An ultrasonic welding operation is performed to connect the cover member 142 to the base member 140. This connection is similar to the connection of pin 28A as shown in FIG. Other connection techniques for connecting cover member 142 to base member 140, including snap connections or other mechanical connections, may be used in other embodiments. It is understood that the beam member 154 extends over the interface 20 and the connector 82 protrudes within the housing 24. This configuration allows for secure connection of the port 14 to the insertion member 37 and also provides an operative connection with the module 22 as described herein.

77-90 disclose additional views and features of one embodiment of module 22, described in more detail below. As previously discussed, module 22 is received by port 14 and operatively connected to the port for the collection, storage and / or processing of data received from sensor system 12. Module 22 incorporates various components for this purpose, including but not limited to printed circuit boards, power supplies, lighting elements, interfaces, and other types of sensors (including multi-axis accelerometers, gyroscopes, and / or intelligence meters). It is understood that.

The module 22 includes a housing 170, which supports an interface 23 with electrical connectors that form contacts for cooperating with the interface 20 of the port 14. As will be explained in more detail below, the contacts associated with the interface 23 of the module 22 are formed in a sealed configuration to prevent the ingress of moisture. The module 22 further includes an unexposed LED light indicator that is only visually recognizable when illuminated. Finally, module 22 uses a unique ground plane extender that enhances the operation of module 22.

As shown in FIGS. 79-83, the housing 170 of the module 22 supports the interface assembly 171. The interface assembly 171 includes a plurality of connectors 172 and a module carrier 173. The connectors 172 each have a distal end that forms a contact that forms the interface 23 of the module 22 as a whole. The connector 172 is understood to be insert molded such that a material is formed around the connector 172 to form the module carrier 173. It is understood that the portion 172A (FIG. 79) of the connector 172 is snapped off at a predetermined position to position the connector 172 to an appropriate length for further operable connection. The housing 170 typically includes a module base member 174 having outer and inner base members 175 and 176. The housing 170 further includes a module upper member 177 having outer and inner upper members 178, 179. Module base members 175 and 176, module top members 178 and 179 and interface assembly 171 cooperate to provide a sealed configuration around connector 172. Connector 172 may be considered to have an overmolded configuration. These components also form internal cavities, and housing 170 supports internal components, including a printed circuit board operatively connected to connector 172.

As discussed, the connector 172 is insert molded and the module carrier 173 is formed around the connector 172. It is understood that the outer base member 175 is formed, for example, by an injection molding process to form end openings. In this process, the connector 172 may be sufficiently supported in the mold to withstand the pressures associated with the injection molding process. The interface assembly 171 and the outer base member 175 are disposed in the mold, where the interface assembly 171 is located in the end opening and supported by the outer base member 175. In a further injection molding process, additional material is injected into the mold to form the inner base member 176. The inner base member 176 is formed around the module carrier 173 and distal end of the connector 172 and against the surface of the outer base member 175. An inner cavity is formed by the inner base member 176, in which the printed circuit board 180 is supported, as is known. It is understood that the connector 172 is operatively connected to the printed circuit board 180. It is also understood that other components of the module 22 are supported within the interior cavity. As described in more detail below, the connector 172 is configured in a sealed form from an overmolding process.

Module upper member 177 as shown in FIGS. 85-86 and 89-90, including inner and outer upper members 179 and 178, may also be formed using an injection molding method in one embodiment. . As shown in FIG. 88, the inner upper member 179 has a through hole 181. The outer top member 178 is a generally planar member. The inner upper member 179 is positioned above the base member 174, and the outer upper member 178 is positioned above the inner upper member 179. Top member 177 is connected to base member 175 to cover the internal components of module 22.

By this structural configuration, the connector 172 is sealed to prevent potential moisture penetration. As shown in FIG. 84, the carrier 173 is in surface-to-surface contact with the connector 172 and generally at the inner surface of the connector 172. In addition, the inner base member 176 is generally positioned around the connector 172 at the outer surface of the connector 172. The inner base member 176 further includes a contact surface 182 that contacts and engages the contact surface 183 formed by the outer base member 175. As further illustrated in FIG. 84, with this configuration, a complicated path represented by the virtual line L is formed. This complex path L minimizes the likelihood of penetration of moisture. For example, a user may enter a pool of water during use and potentially expose port 14 and module 22 to moisture. In the exemplary embodiment, the connector 172 is considered to be sealed at 5 ATM. A bonding material (eg, adhesive) may be used between the module carrier 173 and the inner base member 176 adjacent to the complicated path L, for example at one or both points P in FIG. 84.

It is understood that the module 22 is housed within the port 14. The front end of the module 22 is inserted into the first section 144 through the center hole 153. The size of the module 22 approximately corresponds to the size of the first section 144 and is formed in an interference fit manner. In this configuration, the interface 23 on the module 22 is operatively coupled to the interface 20 on the port 14, where each contact of the interface 20, 23 is in surface-to-surface contact. . Thus, the interface 23 of the module 22 is configured to be pressed to the interface 20 side of the port 14. The module 22 may include a recess 184 in the rear face, which recess 151 of the housing 24 to assist in retaining the module 22 in the port 14 via a snap connection. Accept. The user can easily remove module 22 from the port by accessing module 22 with the aid of finger recess 29A. Thus, the module 22 may be replaced with a newly charged module 22, for example, when necessary for charging or data transmission, or by replacing a module 22 of a certain use with a module of a different kind for another use. ) Can be easily inserted into and removed from the port 14.

As shown in FIGS. 85-90, the module 22 includes a light assembly 185 to provide a user with a luminous display. The light assembly 185 is operatively connected to the printed circuit board 180. The light assembly 185 includes a light member 186 and a light guide 187. The light member 186 is an LED light member according to an exemplary embodiment although other light members may be used. The light member 186 comprises an arcuate section 188 and is configured to irradiate light in a first direction, which may be horizontal in the exemplary embodiment, for example indicated by arrow A1. The light member 186 may be considered to be a side emitting LED. The light guide 187 includes a first section 189 forming a first passageway 190 constructed in a first direction. The first section 189 includes a concave region that approximately corresponds to the arcuate section 188 of the light member 186 and receives as much light as possible from the light member 186 by receiving the arcuate section. Accordingly, the first section 189 is in a relationship facing the arcuate section 188 of the light member 186 and partially surrounds the light member 186. As shown in the figure, the light guide 187 has a shape for dispersing light along an arc to assist in dispersing light into a wide area. The light guide 187 further includes a second section 191 forming a second passage 192 configured in a second direction. The second passage 192 is different from the first direction because it extends upwardly at an angle. In one exemplary embodiment, the second section 191 has an angle of inclination of about 45 degrees determined to enhance reflection of light. The second passageway 192 includes a distal end located near the hole 181 in the inner upper member 179. The light guide 187 may be treated with a dispersant prior to injection molding of the light guide, for example by adding a dispersant to the resin. Since the light member 186 and the light guide 187 are configured in a facing relationship, the components achieve a minimum occupied area, which is helpful due to the limited area formed in the module 22. In operation, the light member 186 is activated via the printed circuit board 180 as desired. Light is irradiated in the direction shown by arrow A1. Further, light is irradiated in an arcuate configuration based on the shape of the light guide 187. Light is irradiated into the first passage 190 along these directions. The light guide 187 guides the light up into the second passage 192 in the direction of arrow A2. When the light is first irradiated from the side emitting LED, the light transitions in the direction inclined from the A1 direction to the second passage 192 side. Thereafter, light passes through the hole 181 in the A2 direction and is emitted through the outer upper member 178. The shape of the light guide 187 is tailored to uniformly distribute the light in a very short path length as shown. Dispersants used in the light guide 187 help to diffuse the light very uniformly to minimize the concentration of light exiting the light member 186. Because of the associated short path length, the LED light member 186 can irradiate light with brightness more concentrated in a given area. According to this design, the light is more uniformly dispersed and reflected when the slope of the light through the hole 181 is limited. The outer top member 178 located above the hole 181 is structured for the thickness of the material and the amount of colorant added to provide the desired translucency. Thus, as can be seen from FIGS. 90 and 91, when the light member 186 does not emit light, the user may not be able to detect that the LED is emitted within the module 22 and thus may be black or “dead-front”. ) "Appearance. Once light member 186 is activated, light is directed through hole 181 and outer upper member 178 along arrow A1 and along arrow A2, as indicated by the LT mark in FIG. 91. Depending on the shape and processing of the light guide 187 and the upper member, the light is reflected in a more improved manner to provide light uniformly distributed over the entire area of light emitted through the upper member. Additional structures may also be added to reflect light in a more advanced manner. For example, light guide 187 may have a surface texture that enhances light reflection. The inclined wall or other surface of the light guide 187 may be coated with a coating or a sticker to obtain a desired light reflection change. It is understood that the light member 186 can irradiate light in multiple colors. Light member 186 provides an indication to indicate various parameters including battery life of module 22.

The configuration of the port 14 and the module 22 described herein fits snugly to provide a customized configuration. The configuration provides waterproofness and suppresses the penetration of moisture. These properties are obtained while providing an operative connection between the port 14 and the module 22. Finger 158 on the interface assembly also provides a firm connection with extension 21 of insert member 37 because the engagement position between the finger and the extension is maximized. Filling material 159 is selected to have a desired hardness to provide sufficient stretch and corrosion resistance. In one exemplary embodiment, the fill material 159 may have a Type A hardness value of 30 or less in the Shore Durometer. Filling material 159 protects around the connection between extension 21 and interface assembly 156. The receptacle / post connection of the housing and the insertion member 37 provides additional stress relief to the insertion member 37 to minimize the possibility that the insertion member 37 may rupture during use.

91-94 disclose additional features relating to the ground plane extender associated with module 22. In particular, further aspects relate to maximizing the surface area of a PCB layer in one or more electronic devices, such as, for example, module 22. Certain aspects relate to increasing the surface area of the ground plane layer of the PCB. 91 shows a top perspective view of an example PCB 1002 that may include one or more telecommunication components, including but not limited to a processor, capacitor, diode, resistor, and / or combination thereof. PCB 1002 is illustrated as being planar along a horizontal axis (“x” axis), but one of ordinary skill in the art can configure PCB 1002 (or a plurality of individual PCBs in operative communication) to form a non-planar structure. You will know. PCB 1002 further includes a ground plane layer 1004 formed of a conductive material such as copper, for example. As shown in FIG. 91, the viewable portion of the ground plane layer 1004 is located around the outer periphery of the PCB 1002, while that portion of the layer 1004 is disposed and / or in another portion of the PCB 1002. Or may be connected.

In some embodiments, PCB 1002 may be configured such that at least one component, such as a battery (not shown in FIGS. 91-93 but shown in FIG. 94), is operatively communicable with a portable power source. PCB 1002 may be configured to be placed in a portable device having a limited size for a battery or other form of portable power source. Due to the size limitation of the portable device described above, the battery can be miniaturized, so there is a limit on the service time between charges and a limit on the discharge rate. According to an embodiment, the PCB 1002 may include a space such as the battery space 1006. As shown in FIG. 91, the battery space 1006 includes an area along the x-z plane of the PCB 1002 so that a power source can be placed adjacent to the PCB 1002. PCB 1002 may be fabricated to a size to form cell space 1006 or may be configured to be altered (eg, via snap regions and / or alternating thickness regions) to form one or more battery spaces. In this regard, the spaces illustrated are spaces for batteries, but those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present invention is not limited to areas and / or spaces configured to house or place only batteries.

While the battery space 1006 of the PCB 1002 is illustrated as a slot configuration disposed on three sides by a portion of the PCB 1002, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the shape, size and / or configuration of the PCB 1002 is merely illustrative. It will be readily appreciated that other forms exist within the scope of the invention. The exact shape and size of the battery compartment 1006 may depend upon the intended use and is not limited by the present disclosure. Thus, the only requirement of the battery space 1006 is to interpose an area along a horizontal plane (eg, a plane along the x-axis) of the PCB 1002 to enable placement of the power supply adjacent to the PCB 1002 along the horizontal plane. have. As shown in FIG. 94 showing a side view of the PCB 1002, a cell such as 1008 may be located along the horizontal plane (x-axis) of the PCB 1002. Because battery 1008 occupies an area within battery compartment 1006, the surface area of PCB 1002 is minimized compared to a PCB that does not have the same space as battery compartment 1008, but instead is a larger area located at the same point. It includes a ground plane layer.

According to some embodiments, a ground plane extender (eg, see 1010) may be electrically connected to the ground plane layer 1004 of the PCB 1002. 92 shows an example ground plane extender 1010 according to one embodiment. Ground plane extender 1010 may be formed from any material that effectively increases the surface area of ground plane layer 1004. In one embodiment, the ground plane extender may be made of copper and / or aluminum, but in further embodiments the ground plane extender 1010 may be at least partially made of any conductive material. One or more connectors to make contact (and / or alignment) between the extender 1010 and the ground plane layer 1004 by conductive adhesive, soldering, steps through soldering, welding, snapping in, and combinations thereof. 1012 may be used. As best shown in FIG. 92, extender 1010 may be disposed adjacent to one side (eg, top) of cell 1008 and may be substantially parallel to PCB 1002 along a horizontal (x) axis. It may include a portion such as a planar upper region (eg, 1014). For example, extender 1010 may include a vertical ridge 1016 that is operatively connected to PCB 1002 and extends from PCB 1002 to upper region 1016. Top region 1016 may include one or more apertures 1018 that may allow heat exchange from peripheral components including cell 1008.

As can be seen in FIG. 94, extender 1010 is shown adjacent to a first side (eg, top) of battery 1008 and electrically connected to PCB 1002, antenna 1020 being a battery. Adjacent to the opposite side (eg, bottom) of 1008. In the example embodiment of FIG. 94, ground plane extender 1010 and antenna 1020 have a configuration parallel to each other with PCB 1002. Thus, in at least one embodiment, the portable device comprises three layers, a first layer comprising a ground plane extender, such as 1010, and along at least one portion of the cell along the same plane as the PCB operatively connected to the ground plane extender. A second layer comprising a cell positioned to be present, and a third layer comprising an antenna such as 1020. In the illustrated embodiment, the layers are arranged vertically, but other arrangements exist within the scope of the present invention. In this respect, there is no requirement that each layer is in direct physical contact with adjacent surfaces of adjacent layers unless otherwise noted. For example, there is no requirement that the antenna 1020 is in direct physical contact with the adjacent surface of the cell 1008.

6 shows a schematic diagram of an example electronic module 22 that includes data transmission / reception capabilities via a data transmission / reception system 107 that may be used in accordance with at least some examples of the present disclosure. Although the example structure of FIG. 6 illustrates a data transmission / reception system (TX-RX) 107 integrated into an electronic module structure 22, those skilled in the art will appreciate the shoe 100 structure or other structure for data transmission / reception purposes. It will be appreciated that individual components may be included as part of and / or that the data transmission / reception system 107 need not be fully contained within one housing or one package in all examples of the invention. To be precise, if desired, the various components or elements of the data transmission / reception system 107 may be separated from one another on different boards in different housings and / or shoes 100 in a variety of different ways without departing from the scope of the present invention. Can be combined separately with the product or other device. Other possible mounting structures of various examples are described in more detail below.

In the example of FIG. 6, the electronic component 22 may include a data transmit / receive element 107 for transmitting data to one or more remote systems and / or for receiving data from the system. In one embodiment, the transmit / receive element 107 is configured to communicate over the port 14, such as by way of a contact or contactless interface described above. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 6, the module 22 comprises an interface 23 configured for connection to the port 14 and / or the sensor 16. In module 22 shown in FIG. 6, interface 23 has a complementary contact with terminal 11 of interface 20 of port 14 for connection with port 14. In other embodiments, as described above, port 14 and module 22 may include other types of interfaces 20 and 23 that may be contacted or wireless. In some embodiments, module 22 may interface with port 14 and / or sensor 16 via TX-RX element 107. Thus, in one embodiment, the module 22 may be external to the shoe 100 and the port 14 may include a wireless transmitter interface for communication with the module 22. The electronic component 22 of this embodiment further includes a processing system (eg, one or more microprocessors), a memory system 204, and a power source 206 (eg, a battery or other power source). In one embodiment, the power supply 206 may be configured to perform inductive charging, such as including a coil or other inductive member. In this configuration, the module 22 may be charged to allow charging without removing the module 220 from the port 14 by placing the shoe 100 product on an induction pad or other inductive charger. At, power source 206 may additionally or alternatively be configured to perform charging using energy-producing techniques, such as charging the power source 206 via absorption of kinetic energy due to user's motion It may include an energy producing device such as a charger.

Connection to one or more sensors may be accomplished as shown in FIG. 6, but sensing or providing data or information regarding various other types of parameters, such as physical or physiological data relating to the use or user of the shoe 100 product. Additional sensors (not shown) may be provided to make this possible. The physical or physiological data may include pedometer type speed and / or distance information, other speed and / or distance data sensor information, temperature, altitude, barometric pressure, humidity, GPS data, accelerometer output or data, heart rate, pulse rate, blood pressure. , Body temperature, EKG data, EEG data, angular orientation and data relating to changes in angular orientation (eg, gyroscope-based sensors), and the like. This data may be stored in the memory 204 and / or used for transmission to some remote location or system, such as by the transmit / receive system 107. The additional sensor (s), if present, may include an accelerometer (eg, to detect a change in direction during walking for the speed and / or distance information, to detect jump height, etc.). In one embodiment, the module 22 may include an additional sensor 208, such as an accelerometer, and data from the sensor 16 may be from the accelerometer 208 by the module 22 or external device 110. Can be combined with

As a further example, electronic modules, systems and the various types of methods described above can be used to automatically dampen a shoe product. Such systems and methods include, for example, US Pat. No. 6,430,843, US Patent Application Publication No. 2003/0009913, and US Patent Application Publication 2004, which describe systems and methods for actively and / or dynamically controlling the cushioning properties of footwear products. / 0177531 (US Pat. No. 6,430,843, US Patent Application Publication No. 2003/0009913 and US Patent Application Publication No. 2004/0177531, respectively, incorporated herein by reference in their entirety). Forms part). Sensing units, algorithms of the type described in US Pat. Nos. 5,724,265, 5,955,667, 6,018,705, 6,052,654, 6,876,947, and 6,882,955 when used to provide speed and / or distance information. , And / or systems may be used. Each of these patents is incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Additional embodiments of sensors and sensor systems, as well as shoe products and sole structures and members utilizing the same, are disclosed in US Patent Application Publication Nos. 2010/0063778 and 2010, which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. / 0063779.

Electronic module 22 may also include an activation system (not shown). The activation system or part thereof may be combined with the product 22 (or other device) with the module 22 or with or separately from other parts of the electronic module 22. The activation system may be used to selectively activate the electronic module 22 and / or at least some functions of the electronic module 22 (eg, data transmission / reception functions, etc.). Various other activation systems may be used without departing from the present invention, and these various systems will be described in more detail below in connection with the accompanying drawings. In one example, sensor system 12 may be activated and / or stopped by activating sensor 16 in a specific pattern, such as a continuous or alternating toe / heel tab. As another example, the sensor system 12 may be connected to the sensor system 12 as well as to other locations, by means of buttons or switches that may be located on the module 22, on the shoe 100, or on an external device. Can be activated. In any of these embodiments, sensor system 12 may include a “sleep” mode that may halt system 12 after a set idle period. In alternative embodiments, sensor system 12 may operate as a low power device that does not activate or stop.

Module 22 may be configured to communicate with external device 110, which may be an external computer or computer system, mobile device, game system, or other type of electronic device as shown in FIG. 23. The exemplary external device 100 shown in FIG. 23 includes a processor 302, a memory 304, a power source 306, a display 308, a user input 310, and a data transmission / reception system 108. . The data transmission / reception system 108 may be configured via the transmission / reception system 107 of the module 22 in any known manner of communication, including contact and contactless communication methods described above or elsewhere. 22) to communicate with. Module 22 and / or port 14 may include various other types and configurations of electronic devices, and may include intermediate devices that have the ability to send information to other external devices and may or may not process such data further. It is understood that it can be configured to communicate with a plurality of external devices. In addition, the transmit / receive system 107 of the module 22 may be configured for a plurality of different kinds of electronic communications. The shoe 100 may include a separate power source for operating the sensor if necessary, such as a battery, piezoelectric element, solar energy power source, or other power source. In the embodiment of FIGS. 3-22B, sensor 16 obtains power through a connection to module 22.

As described below, such sensor assemblies may be custom made for use in specific software for electronic module 22 and / or external device 110. The third party can provide this software as a package with a brush insert having a custom sensor assembly. The module 22 and / or the entire sensor system 12 may be adapted to the data obtained from the sensor 16, including algorithms stored in and / or executed by the module 22, external device 110 or other components. Can be used with one or more algorithms for analysis.

In operation, sensor 16 collects data according to its function and design and sends the data to port 14. The port 14 allows the electronic module 22 to interface with the sensor 16 and collect data for later use and / or processing. In one embodiment, data is collected, stored, and transmitted in a universally readable format, such that data may be accessed and / or downloaded by a plurality of users for a variety of other purposes for a variety of other purposes. In one example, data is collected, stored and transmitted in XML format. In one embodiment, the module 22 includes a circuit 10 as shown in FIG. 20 by measuring a voltage drop at the measurement terminal 104b that reflects a change in the resistance of the particular sensor 16 that is currently switched on. To sense the pressure change in the sensor (16). FIG. 27 illustrates an example of a pressure-resistance curve for the sensor, where the dashed line represents the potential shift of the curve due to factors such as bending of the insert 37. Module 22 may have an activation resistor RA, which is a sensed resistor that module 22 needs to sense the pressure on the sensor. The corresponding pressure forming this resistance is known as the activation pressure PA. The activation resistor RA is selected to correspond to the specific activation pressure PA on which the module 22 is desired to record data. In one embodiment, the activation pressure PA may be about 0.15 bar, about 0.2 bar, or about 0.25 bar, and the corresponding activation resistance RA may be about 100 kPa. In addition, in one embodiment, the maximum sensitivity range may be 150-1500 mbar. In one embodiment, sensor system 12 configured as shown in FIGS. 3-22B can detect pressures of 0.1-7.0 bar (or about 0.1-7.0 atmospheres), and in other embodiments, sensor system 12 ) Can detect pressure over this range with high sensitivity.

In other embodiments, sensor system 12 may be configured to collect other kinds of data. In one embodiment (described above), sensor (s) 16 may collect data regarding the number, order, and / or frequency of compression. For example, the system 12 may include other parameters such as contact time and floating time, as well as the number of steps, jumps, cuts, kicks, or other compression forces that occur while wearing the shoe 100. Alternatively, the frequency can be recorded. Both quantitative and two-stage on / off sensors can collect this data. As another example, the system may record the sequence of compressive forces produced by a shoe, which may be used for purposes such as determining the pronation or supination of a foot, weight transfer, a strike pattern of a foot or other such uses. Can be. In another embodiment (described above), the sensor (s) 16 may quantitatively measure the compressive force on the adjacent portion of the shoe 100 and the data obtained may include a quantitative compressive force and / or an impact value. Relative differences in load relative to other portions of shoe 100 may be utilized to determine the load distribution and “center of pressure” of shoe 100. The load distribution and / or center of pressure may be calculated independently for one or both shoes 100, or may be calculated for both shoes, for example, to find the center of pressure or the center of load distribution for the entire body of the person. In a further embodiment, the sensor (s) 16 may measure the rate of change of the compressive force, contact time, floating time or time between impacts (eg in the case of jumping or doublet) and / or other time-dependent parameters. . In some embodiments, the sensor 16 may require any critical load or impact prior to the recording of load / shock as described above.

As described above, the data is provided to the module 22 in a universally readable format via the universal port 14, so that the number of applications, users, and programs that can use the data is almost unlimited. Thus, the port 14 and module 22 are configured and / or programmed as desired by the user, and the port 14 and module 22 receive input data from the sensor system 12, which data can be transferred to other applications. It can be used in any manner required by. Module 22 may recognize whether received data relates to left or right shoes, for example, through the use of unique identification chip 92 described herein. The module 22 may process the data differently according to the recognition of the left / right shoes, and transmit the data to the external device 110 through identification of the data coming from the left / right shoes. The external device 110 can similarly process the data or otherwise handle the data based on the identification of the left / right shoes. In one example, the connection of the sensor 16 to the terminal 11 and the interface 20 may be different between the left and right inserts 37 as shown in FIG. 12 and described above. According to this configuration, the data from the left inserting member 37 can be interpreted as different from the data from the right inserting member 37. The module 22 and / or the electronic device 110 may perform a similar operation with respect to other identification information included in the unique identification chip 92. In many applications, data is further processed by module 22 and / or external device 110 prior to use. In the configuration where the external device 110 further processes the data, the module 22 may transmit the data to the external device 110. Such transmission data may be transmitted in the same format that is universally readable or may be transmitted in another format, and module 22 may be configured to change the format of the data. In addition, module 22 may be configured and / or programmed to collect, utilize, and / or process data from sensor 16 for one or more specific applications. In one embodiment, module 22 is configured to collect, utilize, and / or process data for use in a plurality of applications. Examples of such uses and applications are presented below. As used herein, the term "application" generally refers to a particular use, and does not necessarily refer to that used in a computer program application, as used in the computer field. Nevertheless, certain applications may be implemented in whole or in part as computer program applications.

Further, in one embodiment, the module 22 may be removed from the shoe 100 and then replaced with a second module 22 configured to operate differently from the first module 22. For example, lifting the foot contacting member 133, detaching the first module 22 from the port 14, and then removing the first module 22 from the housing 24, and the second module 22. ) Is inserted into the housing 24 and then the second module 22 is connected to the port 14, and finally the foot-contacting member 133 is placed back in place for replacement. The second module 22 may be programmed and / or configured differently than the first module 22. In one embodiment, the first module 22 may be configured for use in one or more specific applications, and the second module 22 may be configured for use in one or more other applications. For example, the first module 22 may be configured for use in one or more game applications, and the second module 22 may be configured for use in one or more athletic performance monitoring applications. As another example, module 22 may be configured to be used differently within the same game or performance monitoring application. In another embodiment, the first module 22 may be configured to collect some kind of data, and the first module 22 may be configured to collect other kind of data. Examples of this kind of data are described herein, where the data are quantitative load and / or pressure measurements, relative load and / or pressure measurements (ie, sensors 16 relative to each other), load movements, impact sequences (eg, feet). Strike patterns), load and / or pressure fluctuations, and the like. In further embodiments, the first module 22 may be configured to utilize or process data from the sensor 16 in a different manner than the second module 22. For example, the module 22 may be configured only for the collection, storage and / or transmission of data, or for example, the data may be organized in any manner, for example, by organizing the data, changing the shape of the data, performing calculations using the data, and the like. It may be configured to further process. In another embodiment, the module 22 may be configured to communicate in other ways, such as having a different communication interface or configured to communicate with another external device 110. Module 22 may include various structural and functional aspects, such as using a different power source, or may include various other additional or different hardware components, such as additional sensors (GPS, accelerometers, etc.) as described above. It can also function differently from the side.

One use that can be considered for the data collected by the system 12 is many athletic activities such as, for example, golf swings, baseball / softball swings, hockey swings (ice hockey or field hockey), tennis swings, ball throwing / pitching, and the like. Important to the measurement of the load transfer. The pressure data collected by the system 12 may provide valuable feedback regarding balance and stability used to improve the technique in any applicable athletic event. It is understood that the rather expensive and complex sensor system 12 can be designated based on the intended use of the data collected thereby.

The data collected by the system 12 can be used to measure a variety of other athletic performance characteristics. The data can be used to measure the degree and / or speed of intraoral / abduction, foot strike pattern, balance, and other such parameters that can be used to improve skills in running / jogging or other athletic activities. With regard to gynecology / abduction, analysis of data can also be used as predictor of gynecology / abduction. Speed and distance monitoring may be performed, which may include, for example, pedometer-based measurements such as contact measurements or loft time measurements. For example, jump height can be measured by using contact or loft time measurements. The outer cutting force including the differential load applied to other portions of the shoe 100 during cutting may be measured. Sensor 16 may be positioned to measure shear force, such as a foot slipping outward within shoe 100. As one example, additional sensors may be incorporated into the side of upper 120 of shoe 100 to sense the load on the side portions.

The data or measurements derived therefrom may be useful for the purpose of athletic training, including improving speed, power, quickness, continuity, skill, and the like. Port 14, module 22, and / or external device 110 may be configured to provide valid real-time feedback to a user. In one example, port 14 and / or module 22 may be placed in communication with a computer, mobile device, or the like, to send results in real time. In another example, one or more vibrating elements may be included in the shoe 100, which may be part of the shoe, such as, for example, features disclosed in US Pat. No. 6,978,684, which is incorporated herein by reference to form part of this specification. It may provide feedback to the user by helping to adjust the motion by vibrating the. In addition, the data may be exercised by, for example, comparing a user's previous movement with any movement to show consistency, improvement or lack thereof, or by comparing the user's movement with another identical movement, such as a professional golfer's swing, for example. Can be used to compare actions. In addition, the system 12 can be used to record biomechanical data for the "characteristic" athletic movement of a given workout. This data may be provided elsewhere for use in replicating or simulating certain movements, such as for example in shadow applications that overwrite any movement over a similar movement of a game application or a user.

System 12 may be configured for “all day activity” tracking to record various activities that a user performs over a course of day. System 12 may include special algorithms for this purpose, for example in module 22, external device 110 and / or sensor 16.

System 12 may be used for control applications rather than data collection and processing applications. In other words, the system 12 may be incorporated into shoes or other products in which physical contact is made to be used to control an external device 110, such as a computer, television, video game, or the like, based on user actions sensed by the sensor 16. Can be incorporated. Indeed, a shoe in which the sensor 16 is incorporated and the lid 18 extends to the universal port 14 can be operated as an input system, and the electronic module 22 accepts input from the sensor 16 and correspondingly The input data can be configured, programmed, and adapted to use in any desired manner, for example, as a control input to a remote system. For example, a shoe with a sensor control may include any foot movements, gestures, and the like (eg, foot tapping, double foot tapping, heel tapping, double heel tapping, left and right foot movements, foot-point ( Foot-points, foot-flexes, etc. are pre-defined actions on the computer (eg, page down, page up, undo, copy, cut, paste, save) Can be used as a control or input device for a computer or for a program executed by a computer, similar to a mouse capable of controlling (close, etc.). Software may be provided to assign foot gestures to other computer function controls for this purpose. It is contemplated that the operating system may be configured to receive and recognize control input from the sensor system 12. Televisions or other external electronic devices can be controlled in this manner. Shoes 100 including system 12 may be used in game applications or game programs similar to the Nintendo Wii controller, in which certain actions may be assigned to certain functions and / or used to form a virtual representation of a user's actions on a display screen. Can be used. As an example, pressure center data and other load distribution data may be used in a game application that may include virtual representations of balance, load movement, and other performance activities. System 12 may be used as a dedicated controller of a game or other computer system or as an alternate controller. Examples of configurations and methods of using sensor systems for footwear products as controls for external devices and foot gestures (displays) for such controls are illustrated in US Provisional Application No. 61 / 138,048, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. And described.

In addition, system 12 may be configured to communicate directly with external device 110 and / or a controller for that external device. As mentioned above, FIG. 6 illustrates one embodiment for communication between the electronic module 22 and an external device. In another embodiment shown in FIG. 23, system 12 may be configured to communicate with external game device 110A. External game device 110A includes components similar to the example external device 110 shown in FIG. 6. In addition, external game device 110A may be wired through at least one game medium 307 (eg, cartridge, CD, DVD, Blu-ray, or other storage device) containing a game program and through transmit / receive element 108. And / or at least one remote controller 305 configured to communicate by being wirelessly connected. In the illustrated embodiment, the controller 305 complements the user input 310, but in one embodiment the controller 305 may function as the only user input. In this embodiment, system 12 is a wireless transmitter / receiver with a USB plug-in configured to connect to external device 110 and / or controller 305 to enable communication with module 22. An accessory device 303 is provided. In one embodiment, accessory device 303 may be configured to be connected to one or more additional controllers and / or external devices of the same and / or different type as controller 305 and external device 110. If the system 12 includes other types of sensors (eg, accelerometers) described above, it is understood that such additional sensors may be included for control of games or other programs on external devices.

External device 110, such as a computer / game system, may include other kinds of programs to interact with system 12. For example, the game program may be configured to change the attributes of the characters in the game based on the user's real life activity that may encourage practice or active activity by the user. In another example, the program may be configured to display an avatar of a user operating in connection with or in response to user activity collected by the shoe's sensing system. In such a configuration, the avatar may look active and active, for example, if the user was active, and seem idle and lazy, for example, if the user was inactive. The sensor system 12 may be configured to be more precisely sensed to record data describing the "characteristic movements" of the movement, which may be utilized for various purposes, such as in game systems or modeling systems.

A single product shoe 100 that includes a sensor system 12 as described herein is a sensor of its own, such as a pair of shoes 100, 100 ′ as shown in FIGS. 24-26. It may be used in combination with a shoe 100 'of a second product having a system 12'. The sensor system 12 ′ of the second shoe 100 ′ is typically one or more sensors 16 ′ connected to the port 14 ′ in communication with the electronic module 22 ′ by the sensor leads 18 ′. It includes. The second sensor system 12 ′ of the second shoe 100 ′ shown in FIGS. 24-26 has the same configuration as the sensor system 12 of the first shoe 100. However, in other embodiments, the shoes 100, 100 ′ may include sensor systems 12, 12 ′ with other configurations. Both shoes 100, 100 ′ are both configured to communicate with an external device 110, and in the illustrated embodiment, each shoe 100, 100 ′ is configured with an electronic module configured to communicate with the external device 110. 22, 22 '). In other embodiments, both shoes 100, 100 ′ may include ports 14, 14 ′ configured to communicate with the same electronic module 22. In this embodiment, at least one shoe 100, 100 ′ may be configured to wirelessly communicate with module 22. 24-26 illustrate various communication modes between modules 22, 22 '.

FIG. 24 illustrates a "mesh" communication mode in which the modules 22, 22 'are configured to communicate with each other and also configured to communicate independently with the external device 110. As shown in FIG. 25 illustrates a "daisy chain" communication mode in which one module 22 'communicates with external device 110 via another module 22. As shown in FIG. In other words, the second module 22 'is configured to send a signal (which may include data) to the first module 22, the first module 22 from both modules 22, 22'. Configured to send a signal to the external device 110. Similarly, the external device communicates with the second module 22 'via the first module 22 by sending a signal to the first module 22 that sends a signal to the second module 22'. In one embodiment, the modules 22, 22 ′ may communicate with each other for purposes other than sending and receiving signals to the external device 110. FIG. 26 illustrates an “independent” communication mode in which each module 22, 22 ′ is configured to communicate independently with the external device 110 and the modules 22, 22 ′ are not configured to communicate with each other. In other embodiments, sensor systems 12, 12 ′ may be configured to communicate with each other and / or with external device 110 in other ways.

As will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art upon reading the present disclosure, the various aspects described herein may be implemented as a method, a data processing system, or a computer program product. Thus, such aspects may take the form of an embodiment of complete hardware, an embodiment of fully software, or an embodiment combining hardware and software aspects. Furthermore, such aspects are computer programs stored by one or more tangible computer-readable storage media or storage devices having computer-readable program code, or instructions, implemented in or on the storage medium. It may take the form of a product. Any suitable tangible computer readable storage medium may be used, including hard disks, CDROMs, optical storage devices, magnetic storage devices, and / or any combination thereof. In addition, various intangible signals indicative of data or events as described herein may be applied to metal wires, optical fibers, and / or wireless transmission media (eg, air and / or space). It may be transmitted between the source and the destination in the form of electromagnetic waves traveling through a signal-conducting medium such as).

As noted above, aspects of the present invention may be described in the general context of computer-executable instructions, such as program modules, executed by a computer and / or a processor of the computer. Generally, program modules include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, etc. that perform particular tasks or implement particular abstract data types. Such program modules may be included in the tangible computer-readable medium as described above. In addition, aspects of the present invention may be practiced in distributed computing environments, where tasks are performed by remote processing devices that are linked through a communications network. The program modules may include both local and remote computer storage media including memory storage devices, such as memory 204 of module 22 or memory 304 of external device 110, or including memory storage devices. It may be located in an external medium such as game medium 307. The module 22, external device 110, and / or external medium may include complementary program modules for use together, as in a particular application. Also, for the sake of brevity, that a single processor 202, 302 and a single memory 204, 304 are shown and described within the module 22 and the external device 110, and the processors 202, 302 and memory ( It is understood that 204, 304 may each include a plurality of processors and / or memories and may include a system of processors and / or memories.

The sensor system described herein may be utilized in a variety of other applications and configurations, including general athletic performance monitoring such as in fitness training or sports specific activities such as basketball. It is understood that additional sensors may be located at other locations on the shoe. Sensors in the sensor system can be configured to sense certain outward motion and motion cutting motion. As discussed herein, data collected by the sensor system may be processed by an associated algorithm at an electronic module, mobile device or remote location. Such data processing may take into account that the user may be used to advise the user about wear so as to be advised when a new pair of shoes is needed. Such data may be processed and acted upon to advise the user of a particular type of shoe design that may be beneficial to a particular user. Eventually, the data can be processed to assist in the custom design of the shoe. The sensor system is illustrated as being in a shoe, but the system can be used for other types of clothing.

Various embodiments of the sensor system described herein, as well as other articles, including footwear articles, foot contact members, inserts, and sensor system, provide advantages and advantages over existing technologies. For example, many of the sensor embodiments described herein provide relatively low cost and durable options for sensor systems, such that the sensor system can be integrated into an article of footwear with little additional cost and good reliability. . As a result, it will be possible to manufacture footwear having integrated sensor systems, without significantly affecting the cost, whether or not the consumer ultimately wants to use the sensor systems. Additionally, sole inserts with custom sensor systems can be manufactured and distributed inexpensively with software designed to use the sensor systems without significantly impacting the software cost. As another example, a sensor system may be used in a wide variety of applications, including gaming, fitness, athletic training and improvement, substantial controls of computers and other devices, and many others described herein and as would be appreciated by those skilled in the art. It offers a wide range of functionality. In one embodiment, third party software developers may develop software that is configured to operate using input from sensor systems, including games and other programs. The ability of a sensor system to provide data in a universally readable format greatly extends the range of third party software and other applications in which the sensor system can be used. In addition, in one embodiment, the sensor system can generate signals and data that enable accurate detection of applied forces, which provides greater utility and versatility. As a further example, various sole inserts including sensor systems, including liners, insoles, and other elements, allow for interchangeability and customization of the sensor system for other applications. Those skilled in the art will recognize other advantages.

Here, some alternative embodiments and examples have been described and illustrated. Those skilled in the art will appreciate the features of the individual embodiments, and possible combinations and variations of components. Those skilled in the art will further appreciate that any of the embodiments may be provided in any combination with the other embodiments disclosed herein. It is understood that the present invention can be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or main features of the invention. Accordingly, these examples and embodiments are to be considered in all aspects illustrative and non-limiting, and the invention is not limited to the details described herein. The terms "first", "second", "top", "bottom", and the like as used herein are intended for purposes of illustration only and thus do not limit the embodiments in any way. In addition, the term "plurality" as used herein refers to any number of numbers, from more than one to infinite, alternatively or conjunctively, as needed. Also, as used herein, “providing” an article or device refers to making the article available or making the article accessible, so that subsequent operations can be performed on the article, and It does not imply that the providing party manufactures, produces, or supplies the item or that the providing party has ownership or controls the item. Thus, while specific embodiments have been shown and described, numerous modifications may be devised without departing from the spirit of the invention and the scope of the invention is limited only by the scope of the appended claims.

Claims (45)

As a sensor system,
An insertion member configured to be inserted into a foot-receptor of a shoe product, wherein the insertion member comprises a first layer, a second layer, a spacer layer positioned between the first layer and the second layer;
A port coupled to the insertion member and configured to communicate with an electronic module;
A first sensor formed on the insertion member, wherein the first sensor includes a first contact portion located on the first layer and a second contact portion located on the second layer, and the first sensor comprises: A first sensor, wherein the pressure on the insertion member is configured to strengthen the coupling between the first and second contacts to change the resistance of the first sensor; And
One or more leads positioned on the first and second layers, wherein the leads connect the first sensor to the port
Including,
The spacer layer includes a first aperture aligned with the first sensor to allow at least partial engagement between the first and second contacts of a first sensor through the spacer layer, And a first channel extending into the first vent of the insertion member, wherein the first channel is configured to provide air between the first and second layers from the first sensor to the outside of the insertion member through the first vent. Sensor system that allows flow. The method of claim 1,
The first layer is positioned above the second layer, the second layer forms a bottom surface of the insertion member, and the first vent extends through the second layer. Sensor system comprising a. The method of claim 1,
The first vent is located at an outer circumferential edge of the insertion member and the first channel extends to the outer circumferential edge to form the first vent. The method of claim 1,
A second sensor formed on the insertion member, wherein the second sensor includes a third contact located on the first layer and a fourth contact located on the second layer, and the second sensor comprises: Pressure on the insertion member is configured to enhance the coupling between the third and fourth contacts to change the resistance of the second sensor, wherein the one or more leads further connect the third and fourth contacts to the port. The second sensor
More,
The spacer layer includes a second hole aligned with the second sensor to allow at least partial engagement between the third and fourth contacts of the second sensor through the spacer layer, and from the second hole And a second channel extending into said first vent, said second channel through said first vent to allow flow of air between said first and second layers from said second sensor to the exterior of said insert. Sensor system that allows. The method of claim 4, wherein
The second channel is connected to the first aperture, the second channel being first through the first vent, from the second sensor to the first sensor and out of the insertion member through the first channel. And a flow of air between the second layer. The method of claim 4, wherein
And a first selectively permeable shroud covering said first vent, said first shroud allowing internal and external flow of air while preventing inward flow of moisture and particles. The method of claim 6,
And a second selectively permeable shroud covering said second vent, said second shroud allowing internal and external flow of air while preventing inward flow of moisture and particles. The method of claim 4, wherein
A third sensor formed on the insertion member, wherein the third sensor includes a fifth contact located on the first layer and a sixth contact located on the second layer, and the third sensor comprises: Pressure on an insertion member is configured to strengthen the coupling between the fifth and sixth contacts to change the resistance of the third sensor, wherein the one or more leads connect the fifth and sixth contacts to the port. Third sensor
More,
The spacer layer includes a third hole aligned with the third sensor to allow at least partial engagement between the fifth and sixth contacts of the third sensor through the spacer layer, and from the third hole And a third channel extending to a second vent in the insertion member, wherein the third channel is configured to provide air between the first and second layers from the third sensor to the outside of the insertion member through the second vent. Sensor system that allows flow. The method of claim 8,
A fourth sensor formed on the insertion member, wherein the fourth sensor includes a seventh contact portion located on the first layer and an eighth contact portion located on the second layer, and the fourth sensor comprises: Pressure on an insertion member is configured to strengthen the engagement between the seventh and eighth contacts to change the resistance of the fourth sensor, wherein the one or more leads further connect the seventh and eighth contacts to the port. The fourth sensor
More,
The spacer layer includes a fourth hole aligned with the fourth sensor to allow at least partial engagement between the seventh and eighth contacts of the fourth sensor through the spacer layer, and from the fourth hole And a fourth channel extending into the second vent, the fourth channel through the second vent to direct the flow of air between the first and second layers from the fourth sensor to the outside of the insertion member. Sensor system that allows. 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the first sensor is located in a first metatarsal area of the insertion member, and the second sensor is located in a first phalangeal area of the insertion member. And wherein the third sensor is located in the fifth metatarsal region of the sensor member and the fourth sensor is located in the heel region of the insertion member. The method of claim 1,
A second sensor on the insertion member, wherein the second sensor comprises a third contact located on the first layer and a fourth contact located on the second layer, the second sensor on the insertion member Wherein pressure is configured to increase the coupling between the third and fourth contacts to change the resistance of the second sensor, wherein the one or more leads further connect the third and fourth contacts to the port. 2 sensors
More,
The spacer layer includes a second hole aligned with the second sensor to allow at least partial engagement between the third and fourth contacts of the second sensor through the spacer layer, and from the second hole And a second channel extending into the second vent of the insertion member, wherein the second channel is between the first and second layers from the second sensor to the outside of the insertion member through the second vent. Sensor system that allows air flow. The method of claim 11,
And a first selectively permeable shroud covering said first vent, said first shroud allowing internal and external flow of air while preventing inward flow of moisture and particles. The method of claim 12,
And a second selectively permeable shroud covering said second vent, said second shroud allowing internal and external flow of air while preventing inward flow of moisture and particles. As a shoe product,
A sole structure configured to support a foot of a user, the sole structure comprising a compressible sole member and a first cavity in the sole member;
An insertion member configured to be inserted into a foot-receptor of the shoe product, the insertion member comprising a first layer, a second layer and a spacer layer positioned between the first and second layers, the insertion member An insertion member supported by the sole structure and the bottom surface of the second layer opposite the sole structure;
A port coupled to the insertion member and configured to communicate with an electronic module;
A first sensor formed on the insertion member, wherein the first sensor includes a first contact portion located on the first layer and a second contact portion located on the second layer, and the first sensor comprises: A first sensor, wherein the pressure on the insertion member is configured to strengthen the coupling between the first and second contacts to change the resistance of the first sensor; And
One or more leads positioned on the first and second layers, wherein the leads connect the first sensor to the port
Including,
The spacer layer includes a first aperture aligned with the first sensor to allow at least partial engagement between the first and second contacts of a first sensor through the spacer layer, And a first channel extending into the first vent of the insertion member, wherein the first channel is configured to pass air between the first and second layers from the first sensor to the outside of the insertion member through the first vent. Allow the flow of,
And the first cavity is located directly below the first vent, the first cavity configured to allow air exiting the first vent to pass into the first cavity. The method of claim 14,
Wherein the first layer is positioned above the second layer and the first vent includes an opening in the bottom surface of the second layer extending through the second layer. The method of claim 14,
Wherein the first vent is located at an outer circumferential edge of the insertion member and the first channel extends to the outer circumferential edge to form the first vent. The method of claim 14,
A second sensor formed on the insertion member, wherein the second sensor includes a third contact located on the first layer and a fourth contact located on the second layer, and the second sensor comprises: Pressure on the insertion member is configured to enhance the coupling between the third and fourth contacts to change the resistance of the second sensor, wherein the one or more leads further connect the third and fourth contacts to the port. The second sensor
More,
The spacer layer includes a second hole aligned with the second sensor to allow at least partial engagement between the third and fourth contacts of the second sensor through the spacer layer, and from the second hole And a second channel extending into said first vent, said second channel through said first vent, flow of air between said first and second layers from said second sensor to said exterior of said insert member. Shoe products that would allow. The method of claim 17,
The second channel is connected to the first aperture, the second channel being first through the first vent, from the second sensor to the first sensor and out of the insertion member through the first channel. And allow air flow between the second layer. The method of claim 17,
Further comprising a first selectively permeable cover for covering the first vent, the first cover to allow in and out flow of air while preventing inward flow of moisture and particles. The method of claim 19,
And a second selectively permeable cover for covering the second vent, the second cover permitting the inward and outward flow of air while preventing the inward flow of moisture and particles. The method of claim 17,
A third sensor formed on the insertion member, wherein the third sensor includes a fifth contact located on the first layer and a sixth contact located on the second layer, and the third sensor comprises: Pressure on an insertion member is configured to strengthen the coupling between the fifth and sixth contacts to change the resistance of the third sensor, wherein the one or more leads connect the fifth and sixth contacts to the port. Third sensor
More,
The spacer layer includes a third hole aligned with the third sensor to allow at least partial engagement between the fifth and sixth contacts of the third sensor through the spacer layer, and from the third hole And a third channel extending into the second vent of the insertion member, wherein the third channel is between the first and second layers from the third sensor to the outside of the insertion member through the second vent. Allow air flow,
The sole structure further includes a second cavity in the sole member, the second cavity located directly below the second vent, such that air exiting the second vent is passed through the second vent. A shoe product configured to pass through. The method of claim 21,
A fourth sensor formed on the insertion member, wherein the fourth sensor includes a seventh contact portion located on the first layer and an eighth contact portion located on the second layer, and the fourth sensor comprises: Pressure on an insertion member is configured to strengthen the engagement between the seventh and eighth contacts to change the resistance of the fourth sensor, wherein the one or more leads further connect the seventh and eighth contacts to the port. The fourth sensor
More,
The spacer layer includes a fourth hole aligned with the fourth sensor to allow at least partial engagement between the seventh and eighth contacts of the fourth sensor through the spacer layer, and from the fourth hole And a fourth channel extending into the second vent, the fourth channel through the second vent to direct the flow of air between the first and second layers from the fourth sensor to the outside of the insertion member. Shoe products that are allowed. The method of claim 22,
The first sensor is located in the first metatarsal area of the insertion member, the second sensor is located in the first phalanx area of the insertion member, and the third sensor is located in the fifth metatarsal area of the sensor member. Wherein the fourth sensor is located in the heel region of the insertion member. The method of claim 14,
A second sensor on the insertion member, wherein the second sensor comprises a third contact located on the first layer and a fourth contact located on the second layer, the second sensor on the insertion member Wherein pressure is configured to increase the coupling between the third and fourth contacts to change the resistance of the second sensor, wherein the one or more leads further connect the third and fourth contacts to the port. 2 sensor
More,
The spacer layer further includes a second aperture aligned with the second sensor to allow at least partial engagement between the third and fourth contacts of the second sensor through the spacer layer. And a second channel extending from the second vent to the second vent of the insert, wherein the second channel is between the first and second layers from the second sensor to the outside of the insert through the second vent. Allow air flow in,
The sole structure further includes a second cavity in the sole member, the second cavity located directly below the second vent, such that air exiting the second vent is passed through the second vent. A shoe product configured to pass through. The method of claim 24,
Further comprising a first selectively permeable cover for covering the first vent, the first cover to allow in and out flow of air while preventing inward flow of moisture and particles. The method of claim 24,
And a second selectively permeable cover for covering the second vent, the second cover permitting the inward and outward flow of air while preventing the inward flow of moisture and particles. As a shoe product,
A sole structure configured to support a foot of a user, the sole structure comprising a compressible sole member and a first cavity in the sole member;
An insertion member configured to be inserted into a foot-receptor of the shoe product, the insertion member comprising a first layer, a second layer and a spacer layer positioned between the first and second layers, the insertion member An insertion member supported by the sole structure and the bottom surface of the second layer opposite the sole structure;
A port coupled to the insertion member and configured to communicate with an electronic module;
A first sensor formed on the insertion member, wherein the first sensor includes a first contact portion located on the first layer and a second contact portion located on the second layer, and the first sensor comprises: A first sensor, wherein the pressure on the insertion member is configured to strengthen the coupling between the first and second contacts to change the resistance of the first sensor; And
One or more leads positioned on the first and second layers, wherein the leads connect the first sensor to the port
Including,
The spacer layer includes a first aperture aligned with the first sensor to allow at least partial engagement between the first and second contacts of a first sensor through the spacer layer, And a first channel extending into the first vent of the insertion member, wherein the first channel is configured to pass air between the first and second layers from the first sensor to the outside of the insertion member through the first vent. Allow the flow of,
The first cavity extends laterally from the first vent to a distal end located outside the outer perimeter of the insertion member, the first cavity passing air away from the first vent away from the insertion member. A shoe product configured to allow to do so. The method of claim 27,
Wherein the first layer is positioned above the second layer and the first vent includes an opening in the bottom surface of the second layer extending through the second layer. The method of claim 27,
Wherein the first vent is located at an outer circumferential edge of the insertion member and the first channel extends to the outer circumferential edge to form the first vent. The method of claim 27,
A second sensor formed on the insertion member, wherein the second sensor includes a third contact located on the first layer and a fourth contact located on the second layer, and the second sensor comprises: Pressure on the insertion member is configured to enhance the coupling between the third and fourth contacts to change the resistance of the second sensor, wherein the one or more leads further connect the third and fourth contacts to the port. The second sensor
More,
The spacer layer includes a second hole aligned with the second sensor to allow at least partial engagement between the third and fourth contacts of the second sensor through the spacer layer, and from the second hole And a second channel extending into said first vent, said second channel through said first vent, flow of air between said first and second layers from said second sensor to said exterior of said insert member. Shoe products that would allow. The method of claim 30,
The second channel is connected to the first aperture, the second channel being first through the first vent, from the second sensor to the first sensor and out of the insertion member through the first channel. And allow air flow between the second layer. The method of claim 30,
Further comprising a first selectively permeable cover for covering the first vent, the first cover to allow in and out flow of air while preventing inward flow of moisture and particles. 33. The method of claim 32,
And a second selectively permeable cover for covering the second vent, the second cover permitting the inward and outward flow of air while preventing the inward flow of moisture and particles. The method of claim 30,
A third sensor formed on the insertion member, wherein the third sensor includes a fifth contact located on the first layer and a sixth contact located on the second layer, and the third sensor comprises: Pressure on the insertion member is configured to enhance the coupling between the fifth and sixth contacts to change the resistance of the third sensor, wherein the one or more leads further connect the fifth and sixth contacts to the port. The third sensor
More,
The spacer layer includes a third hole aligned with the third sensor to allow at least partial engagement between the fifth and sixth contacts of the third sensor through the spacer layer, and from the third hole And a third channel extending into the second vent of the insertion member, wherein the third channel is between the first and second layers from the third sensor to the outside of the insertion member through the second vent. Allow air flow,
The sole structure further includes a second cavity in the sole member, the second cavity extending laterally from the second vent to a second distal end located outside the outer perimeter of the insertion member, the second cavity The cavity is configured to allow air exiting the second vent to pass away from the insertion member. The method of claim 34, wherein
A fourth sensor formed on the insertion member, wherein the fourth sensor includes a seventh contact portion located on the first layer and an eighth contact portion located on the second layer, and the fourth sensor comprises: Pressure on an insertion member is configured to strengthen the engagement between the seventh and eighth contacts to change the resistance of the fourth sensor, wherein the one or more leads further connect the seventh and eighth contacts to the port. The fourth sensor
More,
The spacer layer includes a fourth hole aligned with the fourth sensor to allow at least partial engagement between the seventh and eighth contacts of the fourth sensor through the spacer layer, and from the fourth hole And a fourth channel extending into the second vent, the fourth channel through the second vent to direct the flow of air between the first and second layers from the fourth sensor to the outside of the insertion member. Shoe products that are allowed. 36. The method of claim 35 wherein
The first sensor is located in the first metatarsal area of the sensor member, the second sensor is located in the first phalanx area of the insertion member, and the third sensor is located in the fifth metatarsal area of the sensor member. Wherein the fourth sensor is located in the heel region of the insertion member. The method of claim 27,
A second sensor on the insertion member, wherein the second sensor comprises a third contact located on the first layer and a fourth contact located on the second layer, the second sensor on the insertion member Wherein pressure is configured to increase the coupling between the third and fourth contacts to change the resistance of the second sensor, wherein the one or more leads further connect the third and fourth contacts to the port. 2 sensors
More,
The spacer layer further includes a second aperture aligned with the second sensor to allow at least partial engagement between the third and fourth contacts of the second sensor through the spacer layer. And a second channel extending from the second vent to the second vent of the insert, wherein the second channel is between the first and second layers from the second sensor to the outside of the insert through the second vent. Allow air flow in,
The sole structure further includes a second cavity in the sole member, the second cavity extending laterally from the second vent to a second distal end positioned outside the outer perimeter of the insertion member, the second cavity The cavity is configured to allow air exiting the second vent to pass away from the insertion member. The method of claim 37,
Further comprising a first selectively permeable cover for covering the first vent, the first cover to allow in and out flow of air while preventing inward flow of moisture and particles. The method of claim 37,
And a second selectively permeable cover for covering the second vent, the second cover permitting the inward and outward flow of air while preventing the inward flow of moisture and particles. As a sensor system,
An insertion member configured to be inserted into a foot-receiving chamber of a shoe product, the insertion member comprising a first layer and a second layer;
A port coupled to the insertion member and configured to communicate with an electronic module;
A first sensor formed on the insertion member, wherein the first sensor includes a first contact portion located on the first layer and a second contact portion located on the second layer, and the first sensor comprises: A first sensor, wherein the pressure on the insertion member is configured to strengthen the coupling between the first and second contacts to change the resistance of the first sensor;
One or more leads positioned on the first layer and the second layer, the leads connecting the first and second contacts to the port;
A channel located between the first and second layers and extending from the first sensor to the first vent of the insertion member, wherein the channel is through the first vent and out of the insertion member from the first sensor A channel that allows the flow of air between the first and second layers; And
A first selectively permeable cover for covering the first vent, wherein the first cover permits inward and outward flow of air while preventing inward flow of moisture and particles. The method of claim 40,
The first selective permeable cover also allows for an outward flow of moisture. The method of claim 40,
A second sensor formed on the insertion member, wherein the second sensor includes a third contact located on the first layer and a fourth contact located on the second layer, and the second sensor comprises the insertion The pressure on the member is configured to increase the coupling between the third and fourth contacts to change the resistance of the second sensor, wherein the one or more leads further connect the third and fourth contacts to the port. A second sensor;
A second channel located between the first and second layers and extending from the second sensor to a second vent of the insert member, the channel being external to the insert member from the second sensor through the second vent A second channel to allow air flow between the first and second layers; And
A second selectively permeable shroud covering said second vent, said second shroud allowing inner and outer flow of air while preventing inward flow of moisture and particles. The method of claim 42, wherein
The second selectively permeable shroud also permits outward flow of moisture. The method of claim 42, wherein
The first layer is positioned above the second layer, the second layer forms a bottom surface of the insertion member, and the first vent extends through the second layer. Sensor system comprising a. The method of claim 42, wherein
The first vent is located at an outer circumferential edge of the insertion member and the first channel extends to the outer circumferential edge to form the first vent.

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