Footwear with motorized lacing and gesture control

Footwear with motorized lacing and body motion control {FOOTWEAR WITH MOTORIZED LACING AND GESTURE CONTROL}

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

This application is published as US Publication No. 2013/0213147, and is a continuation of US Application Serial No. 13/401,918, filed Feb. 22, 2012, entitled "Footwear with Sensor System," US Patent Publication No. 2015/0313308. U.S. Patent Publication No. 2016/0262485, a continuation of co-pending U.S. Application Serial No. 14/559,680, filed December 3, 2014, and entitled "Footwear with Sensor Systems," published as Claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Application Serial No. 15/070,234, filed March 15, 2016, and entitled "Motor-Operated Footwear with Gesture Control," each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. included as

technical field

The subject matter disclosed herein relates generally to articles of footwear having motor operated lacing and gesture control.

Articles of footwear typically include an upper, a window structure, and a drawstring mechanism or other mechanism capable of securing the article of footwear to a wearer's foot. The article of footwear also includes a sensor system. Such sensor systems collect performance data that can be accessed for later use, for example for analysis purposes. Such an analysis may provide information related to pace, cadence (time required between steps), distance, and jump characteristics, amongst any of a variety of behavioral data.

Embodiments may be better understood with reference to the following drawings and description. Elements in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles of the embodiments. Also, in the drawings, like reference numerals indicate corresponding parts throughout the different drawings. 1 is a side view of a shoe; Fig. 2 is an opposite side view of the shoe of Fig. 1; 3 is a top perspective view of the sole of a shoe (with the shoe upper removed and the foot contacting member folded back) including one embodiment of a sensor system in accordance with aspects of the present invention; FIG. 4 is a top perspective view of the window and sensor system of FIG. 3 with the foot contact member of the shoe removed and the electronic module removed; Fig. 5 is a top perspective view of the window of Fig. 3 with the foot contact member of the shoe removed and without the sensor system; 6 is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of an electronic module that may be used with a sensor system, in communication with an external electronic device. 7 is a plan view of the insert of the sensor system of FIG. 3 configured to be disposed within a window structure of an article of footwear for a user's right foot; Fig. 8 is a top perspective view of the insert of Fig. 7; 9 is a plan view of the sensor system of FIG. 3 including the insert of FIG. 7 ; 10 is a top perspective view of the sensor system of FIG. 9 . 11 is an enlarged plan view of a portion of the sensor system of FIG. 9 ; 12 is a sensor system similar to that of FIG. 9 configured for use within a window structure of an article of footwear for a user's left foot; This is the floor plan. Fig. 13 is an exploded perspective view of the insert of Fig. 7 showing four different views; 14 is a top view of a first layer of the insert of FIG. 13 ; FIG. 15 is an enlarged plan view of a portion of the first layer of FIG. 14 ; 16 is a plan view of a second layer of the insert of FIG. 13 ; 17 is an enlarged plan view of a portion of the second layer of FIG. 16 ; 18 is a top view of the spacer layer of the insert of FIG. 13; 19 is a top view of the bottom layer of the insert of FIG. 13 ; FIG. 20 is a schematic circuit diagram illustrating one embodiment of a circuit formed by the components of the sensor system of FIG. 9 ; Fig. 21 is an enlarged cross-sectional view schematically illustrating the area indicated by lines 21-21 in 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 vent in the sensor system. 22C is a plan view of a spacer layer of another embodiment of an insert for a sensor system in accordance with aspects of the present invention, wherein the dashed line shows the location of the sensor. FIG. 22D is a bottom view of an insert for a sensor system including the spacer layer of FIG. 22C with dashed lines showing the location of the filter connected to the insert. 23 is a schematic diagram of the electronic module of FIG. 6 in communication with an external gaming device; 24 is a schematic diagram of a pair of shoes, each including a sensor system, in mesh communication mode with an external device. 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. 26 is a schematic diagram of a pair of shoes, each comprising a sensor system, in an independent mode of communication with an external device. 27 is a diagram illustrating pressure versus resistance for one embodiment of a sensor in accordance with aspects of the present invention. Fig. 28 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the window and sensor system of Fig. 4; 29 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of another embodiment of a window and sensor system in accordance with aspects of the present invention. Fig. 30 is a top view of the window of Fig. 3 with the foot contact member in an operative position; Fig. 31 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a scene taken along line 31-31 of Fig. 10; Fig. 32 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a scene taken along line 32-32 of Fig. 10; 33 is an exploded perspective view of another embodiment of a sensor system in accordance with aspects of the present invention. 34 is an exploded perspective view of another embodiment of a sensor system in accordance with aspects of the present invention. 35A and 35B are schematic cross-sectional views of a sensor of the sensor system of FIG. 7 ; 36 is a top perspective view of a sole of a shoe (with the shoe upper removed and the foot contacting member folded back) incorporating another embodiment of a sensor system in accordance with aspects of the present invention. FIG. 37 is a top perspective view of the window of FIG. 36 with the foot contact member of the shoe removed and without the sensor system; 38 is a top perspective view of the window and sensor system of FIG. 36 with the foot contact member of the shoe removed and the electronic module removed. FIG. 39 is a top view of the insert of the sensor system of FIG. 36, configured for placement within a window structure of an article of footwear for a user's right foot; FIG. 40 is a top view of a first layer of the insert of FIG. 39; FIG. 41 is a top view of a second layer of the insert of FIG. 39; FIG. 42 is a top view of the spacer layer of the insert of FIG. 39; Fig. 43 is a top view of the bottom layer of the insert of Fig. 39; 44 is an exploded perspective view of the insert of FIG. 39 showing four different layers; 45 is a top perspective view of the sole of a shoe (with the shoe upper removed and the foot contacting member folded back) incorporating another embodiment of a sensor system in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure; Figure 46 is a top perspective view of the window of Figure 45 with the foot contact member of the shoe removed and without the sensor system; FIG. 47 is a top perspective view of the window and sensor system of FIG. 45 with the foot contact member of the shoe removed and the electronic module removed; 48 is a top view of another embodiment of an insert of a sensor system configured to be disposed within a window structure of an article of footwear for a user's right foot, in accordance with aspects of the present invention. FIG. 49 is a top view of the first layer of the insert of FIG. 48; FIG. 50 is a top view of the spacer layer of the insert of FIG. 48; FIG. 51 is a top view of a second layer of the insert of FIG. 48; 52 is a top view of another embodiment of an insert of a sensor system in accordance with aspects of the present invention. FIG. 53 is a top view of a first layer of the insert of FIG. 52; FIG. 54 is a top view of the spacer layer of the insert of FIG. 52; FIG. 55 is a top view of a second layer of the insert of FIG. 52; FIG. 56 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 56-56 of FIG. 52; 57 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating one embodiment of a method and equipment for forming a recess in a window structure of an article of footwear, in accordance with aspects of the present invention. 58 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the window structure of the article of footwear of FIG. 57 with an insert member of the sensor system and a foot contact member coupled thereto; 59 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating another embodiment of a sensor system disposed within a window structure of an article of footwear, in accordance with aspects of the present invention. 59A is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating another embodiment of a sensor system disposed within a window structure of an article of footwear, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. 60 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a foot contact member configured for use with a sensor system in accordance with aspects of the present invention. 61 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a sensor system in accordance with aspects of the present invention. 62-64 are top and perspective views of ports in an insert member in accordance with aspects of the present invention. 65-67 show the components of the housing of the port. 68-71 show views of an interface assembly used in a port. 72 and 73 show views of an interface assembly operatively connected to an insert member; 74 is a partially enlarged plan view of the port connected to the insert member and with the cover member removed. 75 and 76 are side elevational views of a port attached to an insert member; 77 and 78 are additional views of a module in accordance with aspects of the present invention. 79 and 80 are perspective views of a contact and module carrier in accordance with aspects of the present invention. 81-83 are perspective views of the components of the module. 84 is a partial cross-sectional view illustrating over-molding of the contacts of the interface of the module; 85 and 86 are plan views of a module illustrating a light assembly in accordance with aspects of the present invention. 87-90 are internal views of the module showing the components of the light assembly. 91-94 are views of a PCB and ground plane extension associated with a module in accordance with aspects of the present invention. 95 depicts a schematic diagram of various gestures that may be performed using an article or pair of articles, according to an embodiment. 96 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of an article of footwear including a tensioning system having a sensor and a tensioning device. 97 is a schematic diagram of some components of a tensioning device according to an embodiment; 98 and 99 are schematic diagrams of a method for operating a tensioning device based on a gesture-based input, according to an embodiment. 100 is a schematic diagram of correspondence between various gestures and various commands for a tensioning system, according to an embodiment.

Exemplary methods and systems relate to articles of footwear with motorized lacing and gesture control. Examples only indicate possible changes. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, components and functions are optional and may be combined or subdivided, and operations may be sequentially changed or combined or subdivided. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the exemplary embodiments. However, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that the claimed subject matter may be practiced without each or all of these specific details.

Typically, the drawstring mechanism and other fastening mechanisms are operated by a user applying tension manually and then securing the string or other fastening mechanism, for example by tying the laces. Motorized lacing systems have been developed and incorporated into articles of footwear that provide a motor to place and secure the laces under tension. In such a system, a motor may be activated by a user interacting with an interface, such as a button, or by a sensor that detects the presence of a foot in an article of footwear.

However, such a system does not rely on the type of sensor used to detect activity of the wearer. Also, such sensors were not sensitive to the wearer's gestures. Thus, a sensor that detects that a foot is within an article of footwear may not be sensitive to a gesture corresponding to an intentional command by the user, for example, to tighten or loosen a lace.

A sensor system using an activity sensor has been developed to detect a gesture by a wearer of an article of footwear. Such gestures may include heel clicks, toe taps, and touching the heel or forefoot of one article of footwear and another article of footwear. To reduce the likelihood that the motion will be misinterpreted as a gesture corresponding to a command, the system sets the system such that the first gesture places the system in an "enabled mode" and a second gesture received during the enabled mode is a command gesture. It is possible to use multiple stages, which are interpreted as

Footwear, such as a shoe, is shown by way of example in FIGS. 1 and 2 , and generally designated by reference numeral 100 . Footwear 100 may take many different forms, including, for example, various types of athletic footwear. In one exemplary embodiment, footwear 100 generally includes a force and/or pressure sensor system 12 operatively coupled to a universal communication port 14 . As will be described in more detail below, the sensor system 12 collects behavioral data associated with the wearer of the shoe 100 . As will be described in more detail below, through connection to the universal communication port 14, a number of different users may access behavioral data for a variety of different uses.

An article of footwear 100 is shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 as including an upper 120 and a window structure 130 . For reference in the description below, footwear 100 may be divided into three general regions: a forefoot region 111 , a midfoot region 112 , and a heel region 113 , as shown in FIG. 1 . Regions 111 - 113 are not intended to delimit precise regions of footwear 100 . Instead, regions 111 - 113 are intended to represent general areas of footwear 100 that provide a frame of reference during the discussion below. Although regions 111 - 113 apply generally to footwear 100 , reference to regions 111 - 113 specifically refer to upper 120 , window structure 130 , or upper 120 or window structure ( 130) may also be applied to individual components included in and/or formed as part thereof.

1 and 2 , upper 120 is secured to window structure 130 and defines an void or chamber for receiving a foot. For reference, upper 120 includes a lateral side 121 , an opposite medial side 122 thereto, and a vamp or instep region 123 . The lateral side 121 is arranged to extend along the lateral side (ie, the lateral side) of the foot, and generally passes through each of the regions 111 - 113 . Similarly, medial side 122 is disposed to extend along an opposing medial side (ie, medial) of the foot, and generally passes through each of regions 111 - 113 . The acinar region 123 is disposed between the lateral side 121 and the medial side 122 , corresponding to the upper surface or instep area of the foot. In this illustrative example, the proclamation region 123 is a string ( ) used in a conventional manner to alter the dimensions of the upper 120 relative to the foot, thereby adjusting the fit of the footwear 100 . 125) or a throat 124 having other desired closure mechanisms. Upper 120 also includes an ankle opening 126 that provides access for the foot to an air gap in upper 120 . Upper 120 may be constructed using a variety of materials, including materials commonly used in footwear uppers. Thus, upper 120 may be formed of one or more portions of, for example, leather, synthetic leather, natural or synthetic fabric, polymer sheet, polymer foam, mesh fabric, felt, nonwoven polymer or rubber material. Upper 120 may be formed of one or more such materials, and materials, or portions thereof, are sewn or adhesively bonded together, for example, in a manner commonly known and used in the art.

Upper 120 may also include a heel element (not shown) and a toe element (not shown). A heel element, if present, may extend upwardly and along the medial surface of upper 120 in heel region 113 to enhance comfort of footwear 100 . Toe elements, when present, may be located within forefoot region 111 and on the lateral surface of upper 120 to provide abrasion resistance, protect the wearer's toes, and assist in placement of the foot. In some embodiments, one or both of a heel element and a toe element may be absent, or a heel element may be disposed, for example, on the lateral surface of upper 120 . Although the configurations of upper 120 described above are suitable for footwear 100 , upper 120 may represent any desired configuration of conventional or non-conventional upper constructions without departing from the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 3 , window structure 130 is secured to a lower surface of upper 120 and may have a generally conventional shape. The sole structure 130 may have a multi-piece structure, such as including a midsole 131 , a sole 132 , and a foot contact member 133 . The foot contacting member 133 will typically be positioned within the void in the upper 120 and adjacent the lower surface of the foot (or between the upper 120 and the midsole 131 ) to enhance the comfort of the footwear 100 . It is a thin, compressible member that can be In various embodiments, the foot contacting member 133 may be a sockliner, a strobel, an insole member, a bootie element, a sock, or the like. 3-5, the foot contacting member 133 is an insole member or a liningliner. The term "foot contact member" as used herein does not necessarily imply direct contact with the user's foot, as other elements may interfere with direct contact. Rather, the foot contacting member forms part of the interior surface of the foot-receiving chamber of the article of footwear. For example, the user may wear socks that prevent direct contact. As another example, the sensor system 12 may be incorporated into an article of footwear designed to slide over a shoe or other article of footwear, such as an outer bootie element or shoe cover. In such articles, the upper portion of the window structure, although not in direct contact with the user's foot, may be considered a foot contacting member. In some arrangements, an insole or liningliner may not be present, and in other embodiments, footwear 100 may have a foot contacting member disposed on top of the sockliner or liningliner.

Midsole member 131 may be or include a shock damping member, and in some embodiments may include multiple members or elements. For example, the midsole member 131 may be made of polyurethane, ethylvinylacetate, or other material (eg, pylon) that is compressed to damp ground or other contact surface reaction forces during walking, running, jumping, or other activities. , phylite, etc.). In some exemplary constructions in accordance with the present invention, the polymeric foam material is a fluid-filled pouch or adjustment that enhances the comfort, motion-control, stability, and/or ground or other contact surface reaction force damping properties of the footwear 100 . It can enclose or contain various elements, such as a moderator. In another exemplary construction, midsole 131 may include additional elements that are compressed to damp ground or other contact surface reaction forces. For example, midsole 131 may include pillar-type elements to aid in cushioning and absorbing forces.

The sole 132 is secured to the lower surface of the midsole 131 in this illustrated exemplary footwear structure 100 and is made of a flexible synthetic material, such as rubber or polyurethane, that is in contact with the ground or other surface during walking or other activity. It is made of wear-resistant materials such as The material from which the sole 132 is formed may be made of a suitable material and/or textured to impart improved traction and anti-slip properties. Although the sole 132 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 is illustrated as including a plurality of cutouts or dimples 136 in either or both sides of the sole 132, various types of tread Many other types of soles 132 having , contours, and other structures may be used with the present invention. It will be appreciated that embodiments of the present invention may be used with other types of footwear and window structures, as well as other types and configurations of footwear.

1-5 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of footwear 100 including a sensor system 12 in accordance with the present invention, and FIGS. 3 - 22B illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a sensor system 12 . . The sensor system 12 includes an insert member 37 to which a force and/or pressure sensor assembly 13 is connected. The insert member 37 is configured to be disposed in contact with the sole structure 130 of the footwear 100 , and in one embodiment, the insert member 37 is positioned below the foot contacting member 133 and the midsole member 131 . is configured to be placed on top of and in a generally facing relationship. The sensor assembly 13 includes a plurality of sensors 16 and a communication or output port 14 in communication with the sensor assembly 13 (eg, electrically connected through a conductor). Port 14 is configured to communicate data received from sensor 16 , eg to an electronic module 22 (also referred to as an electronic control unit), as described below. Port 14 and/or module 22 may also be configured to communicate with an external device, as described below. 3-5, the system 12 comprises four sensors 16: a first sensor 16a located in the area of the big toe (first phalange or hallux) of the shoe. ), two sensors 16b positioned in the forefoot region of the shoe, including a second sensor 16b positioned in the first metatarsal head region and a third sensor 16c positioned in the fifth metatarsal head region. and 16c), and a fourth sensor 16d located at the heel. These areas of the foot are typically subjected to a large degree of pressure during movement. Each sensor 16 is configured to detect pressure applied by the user's foot on the sensor 16 . The sensor communicates with port 14 through sensor lead 18 , which may be a wire lead and/or other electrical conductor or suitable communication medium. For example, in the embodiment of FIGS. 3-5 , the sensor lead 18 is printed on the insert member 37 , in an electrically conductive medium, such as a silver-based ink or copper and/or tin based. may be other metallic inks, such as those of Alternatively, lead 18 may be provided as a thin wire in one embodiment. In other embodiments, the lid 18 may be connected to the foot contact member 133 , the midsole member 131 , or other members of the window structure 130 .

Other embodiments of sensor system 12 may include different numbers or configurations of sensors 16 , and generally include at least one sensor 16 . For example, in one embodiment, system 12 includes a significantly higher number of sensors, and in another embodiment, system 12 includes two sensors, one sensor in the heel and one sensor in the shoe 100 . and one sensor in the forefoot. In addition, the sensor 16 may communicate with the port 14 in different ways, including any known type of wired communication or wireless communication including Bluetooth and near field communication. that a pair of shoes, in each shoe of the pair, may have a sensor system 12, and that the paired sensor systems may be operated synergistically or independently of each other, and It will be appreciated that the sensor systems within each shoe may or may not communicate with each other. Communication of the sensor system 12 is described in more detail below. that the sensor system 12 may have computer programs/algorithms for controlling the collection and storage of data (eg, pressure data from the interaction of the user's feet with the ground or other contact surface), and such programs It will be appreciated that the /algorithm may be stored within and/or executed by the sensor 16 , the module 22 , and/or the external device 110 .

The sensor system 12 may be disposed in several configurations within the sole 130 of the shoe 100 . 3-5 , port 14 , sensor 16 , and lead 18 , for example, insert member 37 between midsole 131 and foot contact member 133 . By disposing, it may be disposed between the midsole 131 and the foot contacting member 133 . The insert member 37 may, in one embodiment, be connected to one or both of the midsole and foot contact member 133 . A cavity or recess 135 may be positioned in the midsole 131 ( FIG. 5 ) and/or in the foot contact member 133 to receive an electronic module 22 , as described below, and may include a port 14 can be accessed from within recess 135 in one embodiment. Recess 135 may further include a housing 24 for module 22 , which housing 24 may, for example, by providing physical space for port 14 and/or port ( By providing a fixed wiring for interconnection between 14 ) and module 22 , it can be configured for connection to port 14 . 5 , recess 135 is defined by a cavity in the upper major surface of midsole 131 . As shown in FIG. 5 , window structure 130 is interior to accommodate housing 24 , which may provide access to recess 135 and/or may be considered part of recess 135 . and a compressible window member 138 having a hole formed therein. An insert 37 may be disposed on top of the compressible window member 138 to position the housing 24 within the 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 . It will be appreciated that the compressible window member 138 may face the midsole 131 with one or more additional structures disposed between the compressible window member 138 and the midsole 131 , such as a strobel member. There will be. 3-5, the compressible sole member 138 is a foam positioned between the foot contacting member 133 and the midsole 131, which in these embodiments may be considered a lower insole/innerliner. member 138 (eg, EVA member). Foam member 138 may be coupled to strobel 133A ( FIG. 58 ) of midsole 131 ( FIG. 58 ) in one embodiment, for example by use of an adhesive, and may cover any seams on the strobel, which Polishing of the insert 37 by the sealing portion can be prevented. This configuration is schematically illustrated in FIG. 58 . 3-5 , the housing 24 has a plurality of walls including a side wall 25 and a base wall 26 and also extends outwardly from the top of the side wall 25 and and a flange or lip 28 configured to connect to the insert 37 . In one embodiment, the flange 28 is a tub, through a peg 28A that connects to a through hole 28B in the insert 37 located at the front end of the hole 27 . It is a separate member connected to (29) to form a housing (24). The legs 28A may be connected via ultrasonic welding or other techniques, and in one embodiment may be received within a receptacle. In an alternative embodiment, an article of footwear 100 may be manufactured with a barrel 29 formed within the window structure 130 and the flange 28, optionally after other portions of the port have also been assembled, for example It can be connected later, for example by means of a snap connection. The housing 24 may include a retaining structure for retaining the module 22 within the housing 24, the retaining structure comprising: a tab/flange and slot arrangement, a complementary tab, a locking member ( locking members), friction-fitting members, and the like, may be complementary to retaining structures on the module 22 . Housing 24 also includes a finger recess 29A located within flange 28 and/or barrel 29 , which allows a user to remove module 22 from housing 24 . provides space for the fingers of the module 22 to engage. Flange 28 provides a wide base that engages the top of insert 37 , which counteracts the force applied by flange 28 on insert 37 and/or on foot contact member 133 . diffuse, which lowers the likelihood of significant deflection and/or damage to such components. The rounded corners on the flange 28 also help prevent damage to the insert 37 and/or the foot contact member 133 . It will be appreciated that the flange 28 may have different shapes and/or contours in other embodiments, and may provide similar functions with different shapes and/or contours.

3 , a foot contact member 133 is disposed on top of the foam member 138 and is configured to cover the insert 37 , the lower portion thereof to provide space for the housing 24 . It may include a recess 134 in the major surface. The foot contacting member 133 may be attached to the foam member 138 and, in one embodiment, attached only within the forefoot region, for access to the module 22, as shown in FIG. 133) can be pulled upwards. Additionally, the foot contacting member 133, such as a silicone material, is a tacky or high friction material positioned on at least a portion of the underside to resist slipping relative to the insert 37 and/or the foam member 138 . material (not shown). For example, in an embodiment in which the foot contacting member 133 is attached within the forefoot region and free in the heel region (eg, FIG. 3 ), the foot contacting member 133 would have an adhesive material positioned on the heel region. can The tacky material may also provide an improved seal to prevent dust from penetrating into the sensor system. In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 60 , the foot contact member 133 is configured to be positioned over the port 14 and allows insertion and/or removal of the module 22 through the foot contact member 133 . It may include a door or hatch 137 sized to The embodiment of the foot contacting member 133 shown in FIG. 60 may be used instead of the foot contacting member 133 of FIG. 3 , 36 , or 45 to provide access to the port 14 and module 22 . can be used 60, the door 137 has a hinge 137A formed by material attachment along one edge of the door 137, such that the door 137 will be opened and closed by pivoting. make it possible Additionally, the door 137 is formed of the same material as the foot contacting member 133 in this embodiment, so that no significant cushioning loss is caused by the inclusion of the door 137 . In addition, the door 137 may have a tab 137B or other structure to assist the user in gripping and manipulating the door 137 . In one embodiment, the sensor system 12 may be disposed on the underside of the foot contact member 133 , and the door 137 may provide access to the port 14 in such an embodiment (not shown). have. In other embodiments, door 137 may have hinges on other edges or may be opened in other ways, such as by removal, sliding, or the like. In one embodiment, the foot contacting member 133 may also have a graphical representation 92 thereon, as described below.

In one embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 3-5 and 7 , the foam member 138 also has a depression having the same peripheral shape as the insert 37 for receiving the insert 37 therein. 139 , wherein the bottom layer 69 ( FIG. 13 ) of the insert member 37 includes an adhesive backing for retaining the insert 37 within the depression 139 . can do. In one embodiment, a relatively strong adhesive, such as a quick-bonding acrylic adhesive, may be used for this purpose. Insert 37 has a hole or space 27 for receiving and providing space for housing 24; in this embodiment, foam member 138 also allows housing 24 to strobe. and/or completely and/or at least partially passed into the midsole 131 . 3-5 , the foot contacting member 133 may have a reduced thickness as compared to a typical foot contacting member 133 (eg, a liningliner), and the foam member 138 . The thickness of is substantially equal to the reduced thickness of the foot contact member 133 to provide even cushioning. In one embodiment, the foot contacting member 133 may be a liningliner having a thickness of about 2-3 mm, the foam member 138 may have a thickness of about 2 mm, and the depression 139 may be about 2 mm thick. It has a depth of 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 article of footwear 100 . This configuration typically involves inserting the foam member 138 with the foam member 138 prior to attaching the foam member to a strobel or other portion of the footwear 100 that may bend or curve the foam member 138 and otherwise cause layer separation. Allows the adhesive between the sieves 37 to be set in a flat condition. In one embodiment, the foam member 138 to which the insert 37 is adhesively attached may be provided as one article for insertion into an article of footwear 100 in this configuration. The placement of the port 14 of FIGS. 3-5 not only provides for minimal contact, irritation, or other interference with the user's foot, but also provides easy accessibility by simply raising the foot contact member 133 . .

3-5, the housing 24 extends completely through the insert 37 and the foam member 138, and the recess 135 is also shown schematically in FIG. , extend fully and partially through the strobel 133A into the midsole 131 of the footwear 100 to receive the housing 24 . In other embodiments, the recess 135 may be otherwise configured, and in one embodiment, may be disposed entirely on the underside of the strobel 133A, and a window through the strobell 133A may be configured in the recess 135. Allow access to module 22 . Recess 135 may be configured to cut or remove material from strobel 133A and/or midsole 131 , form strobel 133A and/or midsole 131 containing recess therein, or It may be formed using a variety of techniques, including other techniques or combinations of such techniques. In one embodiment, as schematically shown in FIG. 57 , recess 135 is removed by using a hot knife 109 to cut through strobel 133A and into midsole 131 to remove piece 135A of material. ) to form In this embodiment, the hot knife 109 forms a cavity 109B to receive the piece 135A to be removed as well as a prong 109C extending downwardly through the middle of the piece 135A. and a wall 109A extending around the perimeter of the hot knife 109 for this purpose. Wall 109A is cut down into strobel 133A and midsole 131 to cut the outer perimeter of piece 135A to be removed. Both branches 109C weaken the bottom side of piece 135A to facilitate removal and also assist in retaining piece 135A within cavity 109B during removal, such that piece 135A simply It may be removed by raising the hot knife 109 away from the window structure 130 . In one embodiment, the hot knife 109 may be heated to a temperature of 250 to 260 °C. In other embodiments, a hot knife 109 (which may be otherwise configured) may be used to form an otherwise shaped and/or configured recess 135 in the window structure 130 . 58 schematically shows the window structure 130 received in the recess 135 after formation and the insert 37 connected to the housing 24 . As shown in FIG. 58 , the housing 24 closely fits the wall of the recess 135 , which may be advantageous, as the gap between the housing 24 and the recess 135 is a source of material failure. because it can be The process of removing the piece 135 may be automated using suitable computer controlled equipment.

The recess 135 may be located anywhere within the window structure 130 in further embodiments. For example, the recess 135 may be positioned within the upper major surface of the foot contacting member 133 , and the insert 37 may be disposed on top of the foot contacting member 133 . As another example, the recess 135 may be positioned within the lower major surface of the foot contacting member 133 , and the insert 37 may be positioned between the foot contacting member 133 and the midsole 131 . As a further example, the recess 135 may be located within the sole 132 and may be accessed from the outside of the shoe 100 , such as through an opening in the side, bottom, or heel of the sole 130 . . In the configuration shown in FIGS. 3-5 , the port 14 can be easily accessed for connection or disconnection of the electronic module 22 , as described below. 59 , the foot contact member 133 has an insert 37 connected to the bottom surface, and the port 14 and recess 135 are located within the window structure 130 , for example as described above. and has the same configuration as that shown in FIG. 58 . The interface 20 is disposed on the side of the housing 24 as shown similarly with respect to other embodiments, however, the interface 20 may be disposed on any side, such as for coupling through the top of the module 22 . It will be understood that it can be placed anywhere. Module 22 may be modified to accommodate such changes. In such an embodiment, the foot contacting member 133 may have an opening for access to the module 22 (such as shown in FIG. 60 ) or access to the module 22 , as shown in FIG. 3 . can be pulled upwards for In the embodiment shown in FIG. 59A , the insert 37 is disposed under both the foot contacting member 133 and the strobel 133A and in contact with the midsole member 131 . In such an embodiment, the strobel 133A and/or the foot contact member 133 may have an opening for access to the module 22 and/or access to the module 22, as shown in FIG. 3 . can be pulled upwards for

In other embodiments, the sensor system 12 may be arranged differently. For example, in one embodiment, the insert 37 may be disposed within the sole 132 , the midsole 131 , or the foot contacting member 133 . In one exemplary embodiment, the insert 37 may be disposed within a foot contacting member 133 disposed over an insole member, such as a sock, lining liner, inner footwear bootie, or other similar article, or It may be disposed between the member 133 and the insole member. Still other configurations are possible, and some examples of other configurations are described below. As described, it will be appreciated that the sensor system 12 may be included in each shoe in pairs.

The insert member 37 of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3-22B is formed of 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 membrane material, such as Mylar® or other polyethylene terephthalate (PET) membranes, or other polymeric membranes such as polyamide. In one embodiment, the first and second layers 66 and 68 may each be a PET film having a thickness of 0.05 to 0.2 mm, such as a thickness of 125 μm. Additionally, in one embodiment, each of the first and second layers 66 , 68 has a minimum bend radius of 2 mm or less. The insert 37 includes a spacer layer 67 and/or a second layer disposed between the first layer 66 and the second layer 68 , included in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3-22B . (68) may further include a bottom layer 69 disposed at the bottom of the insert 37 below. Layers 66 , 67 , 68 , 69 of insert 37 are stacked on top of each other and facing each other, and in one embodiment, layers 66 , 67 , 68 , 69 all have similar or identical peripheral shapes. and overlap each other (FIG. 13). In one embodiment, the spacer layer 67 and the bottom layer 69 may each have a thickness of between 89 and 111 μm, such as a thickness of 100 μm. The overall thickness of the insert member 37 may be about 450 μm in one embodiment, or about 428 to 472 μm in another embodiment, and about 278 to 622 μm in a further embodiment. The insert 37 may also include an additional adhesive between 100 and 225 μm thick, and in other embodiments may further include one or more optional reinforcing layers, such as an additional PET layer. Additionally, in one embodiment, the entire four-layer insert as described above has a minimum bend radius of 5 mm or less. In another embodiment, the first and second layers 66 , 68 , for example, by disposing the second layer 68 as the top layer and disposing the first layer 66 under the second layer 68 . ) can be reversed. 3 to 22B , the first and second layers 66 , 68 include sensors 16 , leads 18 , resistors 53 , 54 , paths ( 50), dielectric patches 80, and other components printed thereon, including various circuitry and other components. Such components are printed on the lower side of the first layer 66 and on the upper side of the second layer 68 in the embodiment of FIGS. and on opposite sides of the second layer 66 , 68 . It will be appreciated that components located on the first layer 66 and/or the second layer 68 may be moved/transposed to other layers 66 , 68 . In one embodiment, such components may be printed on layers 66, 68 in a manner to limit the total number of press passes required, and in one embodiment, on individual layers 66, 68. All components can be printed in one pass.

In one embodiment, the layers 66 , 67 , 68 , 69 may be joined together by an adhesive or other bonding material. The spacer layer 67 may include an adhesive on one or both surfaces to connect the first and second layers 66 , 68 in one embodiment. Likewise, the bottom layer 69 may have adhesive on one or both surfaces for connection to the second layer 68 as well as an article of footwear 100 . The first or second layer 66 , 68 may additionally or alternatively have an adhesive surface for this purpose. In other embodiments, various other techniques may be used to join the layers 66 , 67 , 68 , 69 , such as heat sealing, spot welding, or other known techniques.

The insert 37 , the foot contact member 133 and/or the sensor system 12 and other components of the footwear 100 may also include graphic designs or other indicia (not shown) thereon. The graphic design may be provided on one or more graphic layers (not shown) that may be connected to the insert 37 , for example by overlaying the graphic layer on top of the first layer 66 . The graphic design may correspond to the sensor assembly 13 , the lid 18 , and various other components supported by the layers. For example, in the embodiment of FIG. 60 , the foot contact member 133 is a graphical representation ( 92). Other graphic designs may be used in other embodiments, including information related designs, style related designs, and other such designs.

The insert 37 shown in FIGS. 3-22B has a configuration that may use less material than other insert configurations and may provide greater resistance to rupture at typical stress points. In this embodiment, the insert 37 has some material portions cut away in areas of the insert 37 that may be redundant, such as in the lateral forefoot region or in the lateral and medial heel regions. The insert 37 of this configuration has a midfoot portion 37A configured to be engaged by the midfoot region of the user's foot and a forefoot portion 37B configured to be engaged by the forefoot (ie, metatarsal) region of the user's foot. A heel portion 37C, configured to be engaged by the heel region and the first phalanx region, respectively, of the foot extends rearward from the midfoot portion 37A and the first phalanx portion 37D extends forwardly from the forefoot portion. 4, 8, 10, and 22A illustrate this feature in more detail. It will be appreciated that, depending on the shape of the user's foot, the first phalanx portion 37D may only engage the first phalanx region of the user's foot. In this embodiment, the width of the forefoot portion 37B is greater than the width of the midfoot portion 37A, and both the midfoot portion 37A and the forefoot portion 37B are greater than the first phalanx portion 37D and the heel portion 37C. It has a wider width, such that the first phalanx portion 37D and the heel portion 37C are positioned forward or in an elongated manner from the base to the free end located in the wider midfoot portion 37A and the forefoot portion 37B. It consists of peninsulas each extending backwards. As noted herein, the width of a portion of the insert 37 is measured in a medial-to-lateral direction, and the length is measured in an anterior-to-posterior (toe-to-heel) direction. 3 to 22B , the first phalanx portion 37D has one of the sensors 16a positioned thereon engaged by the user's first phalanx, the heel portion 37C. has on it the other of the sensors 16d coupled by the user's heel. The other two sensors 16b and 16c are, respectively, on the forefoot portion 37B of the insert 37, in particular in the first metatarsal head region, such that they are engaged by the first and fifth metatarsal head regions of the user's foot, respectively. and located in the region of the 5th metatarsal head. The midfoot portion 37A includes a hole 27 for receiving the housing 24 and the module 22 , the hole 27 extending between the forefoot portion 37B and the heel portion 37C and extending between the two to form two strips 88 connecting them. 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 usage, the length of the insert 37 is measured from the most distal end of the forefoot of the first phalanx portion 37D to the most distal end of the heel of the heel portion 37C. These strips 88 are subjected to great stress during use, and this width helps prevent breakage during use. In other embodiments, the strip 88 may be reinforced by additional structures. For example, in one embodiment, strip 88 and/or other portions of insert 37 may be reinforced by fibers or similar structures. As another example, the insert 37 is, in one embodiment, an addition that completely surrounds the housing 24 and occupies the entirety of both the strip 88 and the junction between the strip 88 and the remainder of the insert 37 . additional structural layers over at least a portion of the insert 37 , such as structural structural layers.

3 to 22B , the insert 37 forms a perimeter of the insert 37 and extends from the rear portion of the heel portion 37C to the front end of the first phalanx portion 37D. A medial edge 85 extending along the medial side of the insert 37 , a lateral edge 86 extending from the rear portion of the heel portion 37C to the front portion of the forefoot portion 37B, and the insert 37 . has a peripheral edge, including an anterior edge 87 extending from the lateral edge 86 to the first phalanx portion 37D along the second, third, fourth and fifth metatarsal regions of The medial edge 85 , the lateral edge 86 , and the front edge 87 each have a cut-away portion in this embodiment, as shown, for example, in FIGS. 8 , 10 and 22A . The cut-out portion 87A along the anterior edge 87 is located between the lateral edge 86 and the first phalangeal portion (ie, the peninsula) 37D. Cut-away portions 85A, 86A along medial and lateral edges 85 , 86 are located proximate to the junction between forefoot portion 37B and midfoot portion 37A, and within midfoot portion 37A (medial edge 85 ) and the width W1 of the insert 37 (formed between the lateral edge 86 ) and the width W2 within the forefoot portion 37B are determined between the first cut-out 85A and the second cut-out 86A. wider than the measured width W3 of the insert. This configuration creates a narrowed neck 89 between midfoot portion 37A and forefoot portion 37B that is narrower than midfoot portion 37A or forefoot portion 37B. The widths W1 and W2 of the midfoot portion 37A and the forefoot portion 37B are also wider than the width W4 measured at the heel portion 37C, and the forefoot portion 37B has the greatest relative width W2. . In this embodiment, heel portion 37C includes an extended aft portion 37E that is wider than a more anterior portion of heel portion 37C, such that heel portion 37C extends from midfoot portion 37A. The width increases towards the heel end of the insert member 37 .

Each of the cut-out portions 85A, 86A, 87A extends inwardly into the body of the insert 37 and has a generally concave and/or concave shape. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3-22B , each of the cut-out portions 85A, 86A, 87A is smooth, concavely curved inwardly, to resist the propagation of a tear, rupture, or crack within the insert 37 . (curved) shape. In this embodiment, each of the cut-out portions 85A, 86A, 87A is at least partially defined by a concave curved edge defining an arc of at least 120°. Additionally, in one embodiment, at least one of the cut-out portions 85A, 86A, 87A is at least partially defined by a concave curved edge defining an arc of at least 180°. For example, as seen in FIGS. 8 , 10 and 22A , each of the at least inner and outer cut-out portions 85A, 86A is at least partially defined by a concave curved edge defining an arc of at least 180°. do. Additionally, each of the cut-out portions 85A, 86A, 87A in this embodiment, at the medial, lateral and anterior edges 85 , 86 , 87 , is a smoothly curved edge located on the outer periphery of the insert. bounded on both sides by In this embodiment one or both of the smoothly curved edges bounding each of the cut-out portions 85A, 86A, 87A form an arc of at least 90°. The use of the cut-out portions 85A, 86A, 87A in this location and having such a configuration can be achieved by, for example, inhibiting the propagation of tears, ruptures, or cracks within the insert 37 as described above, in the insert (37) can improve the durability and lifespan. In this embodiment, the cut-out portions 85A, 86A, 87A are placed in areas of high stress where such damage resistance is most advantageous. An insert 37 constructed as shown in FIGS. 3-22B may have sufficient fatigue resistance to withstand stresses of up to 20 MPa over at least 500,000 cycles.

In further embodiments, the insert 37 may have other cut-outs and/or may have cut-outs having the same location but different shapes. For example, the insert 37 shown in FIGS. 22C and 22D has cut-out portions 85A, 86A, 87A in a similar position as compared to the insert 37 of FIGS. (85A, 86A, 87A) have slightly different peripheral shapes. In this embodiment, the inner cut-out 85A forms a smaller arc as compared to the inner cut-out 85A of the insert 37 of FIGS. 3-22B . The front cut-out portion 87A of this embodiment forms a less symmetrical and uniformly curved shape as compared to the front cut-out portion 87A of the insert 37 of FIGS. 3-22B.

36-47 show a sensor system 412 having inserts 437, 537 having a different shape and configuration than the sensor system 12 and insert 37 described above and shown in FIGS. 3-22B; 512). The sensor systems 412 and 512 of FIGS. 36-47 include many structural and functional features in common with the sensor system 12 of FIGS. 3-22B. For example, sensor systems 412 , 512 include sensors 16 that are constructed and arranged substantially the same as sensor system 12 of FIGS. 3-22B and function in a similar manner. As another example, the sensor system 412, 512, similar to the sensor system 12 of FIGS. 50). These and other common features may not be described again herein for the sake of brevity.

36-44, insert 437 has cut-out portions 85A, 86A, 87A in a similar position as compared to insert 37 of FIGS. 3-22B, with cut-out portions 85A; 86A, 87A) have slightly different peripheral shapes. In this embodiment, the inner cut-out 85A forms a smaller arc as compared to the inner cut-out 85A of the insert 37 of FIGS. 3-22B . The front cut-away portion 87A of this embodiment is deeper and forms a larger arc as compared to the front cut-out portion 87A of the insert 37 of FIGS. 3-22B . The outer cut-away portion 86A of this embodiment is shallower and forms a smaller arc as compared to the outer cut-out portion 86A of the insert 37 of FIGS. 3-22B . Additionally, the insert 437 of FIGS. 36-44 has a substantially constant width heel portion 37C and does not have an extended trailing portion 37E.

45-47, insert 537 has cut-out portions 85A, 86A, 87A in a similar position as compared to insert 37 of FIGS. 3-22B, with cut-out portions 85A; 86A, 87A) have slightly different peripheral shapes. In this embodiment, the inner cut-out 85A forms a smaller arc as compared to the inner cut-out 85A of the insert 37 of FIGS. 3-22B . The outer cut-away portion 86A of this embodiment is shallower and forms a smaller arc as compared to the outer cut-out portion 86A of the insert 37 of FIGS. 3-22B . The anterior edge 87 of the insert 537 of FIGS. 45-48 continuously angles from the first phalanx portion 37D towards the fifth metatarsal sensor 16c and directly into the anterior cut-out portion 87A. It forms an extending substantially straight edge. The resulting front cut-away portion 87A forms a smaller arc as compared to the front cut-out portion 87A of the insert 37 of FIGS. 3-22B . Additionally, the insert 537 of FIGS. 45-48 has a substantially constant width heel portion 37C and does not have an extended trailing portion 37E. The lid 18 and many other components of the sensor system 512 of FIGS. 45-48 are not shown and not mentioned herein, and such components may include the sensor system 12 and/or the sensor system 12 of FIGS. It will be appreciated that it may be configured similarly or identically (structurally and/or functionally) to the corresponding components in the sensor system 412 of FIGS. 36-44 .

Inserts 37 , 37 , 437 , 537 can have any number of different configurations, shapes and structures, and different insert structures or peripheral shapes, including different numbers and/or configurations of sensors 16 . It can be understood that it is possible to have For example, any of the inserts 37, 37', 437, 537 described herein, while otherwise contoured, dimensioned, and configured, may include cut-out portions 85A, 86A, 87A and It may include some or all of the structural features and functions associated with those structural features as described above, such as other features of the peripheral shape. Additionally, any of the inserts 37, 37', 437, 537 described herein may include additional or different structural features that may provide other shapes and/or functions.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3-22B , sensor 16 is a force and/or pressure sensor for measuring pressure and/or force on window 130 . The sensor 16 has a resistance that decreases when the pressure on the sensor 16 is increased, so a measurement of the resistance through the port 14 can be made to detect the pressure on the sensor 16 . The sensor 16 of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3-22B is oval or round in shape, which allows one sensor size to be used in several different shoe sizes. Each of the sensors 16 of this embodiment has two contacts, including a first contact 40 disposed on a first layer 66 and a second contact 42 disposed on a second layer 68 . (40, 42). Unless specifically stated otherwise, the drawings showing the first layer 66 herein are top views, and that the electronic structures (including the contacts 40 , leads 18 , etc.) ) and is observed through the transparent or translucent first layer 66 . Contacts 40 , 42 are disposed opposite each other and positioned in an overlapping relationship with each other such that pressure on insert member 37 by the user's foot causes increased engagement between contacts 40 , 42 . . The resistance of the sensor 16 decreases as the coupling between the contacts 40 , 42 increases, and the module 22 is configured to detect pressure based on the 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, as in the embodiment of FIGS. 3-22B, 2 Contacts 40 , 42 may be formed of the same or different materials. Additionally, in one embodiment, lead 18 is formed of a material having a greater conductivity and less resistivity than the material(s) of sensor contacts 40 , 42 . For example, the patch may be formed of carbon black or other conductive carbon material. Also, in one embodiment, the two contacts 40 , 42 may be formed of the same material or two materials having similar hardness values, which may reduce abrasion and wear due to differences in hardness of the materials in contact with each other. . In this embodiment, a first contact 40 is printed on the underside of the first layer 66 , and a second contact 42 is printed on the top side of the second layer 68 , so that the contacts 40 , 42) allows for a bond between The embodiment shown in FIGS. 3-22B allows for coupling of contacts 40 , 42 through spacer layer 67 while insulating different portions of first and second layers 66 , 68 from each other. a spacer layer 67 , having a hole 43 disposed in each sensor 16 for this purpose. In one embodiment, each hole 43 is aligned with one of the sensors 16 and allows at least partial coupling between the contacts 40 , 42 of each sensor 16 . 7-18, the hole 43 has a smaller area than the sensor contacts 40, 42, thereby allowing the central portions of the contacts 40, 42 to be coupled to each other, while The outer portions of the contacts 40 and 42 and the distribution leads 18A are insulated from each other (see, eg, FIGS. 13 and 35A and 35B). In another embodiment, the hole 43 may be sized to allow coupling between the contacts 40 , 42 over its entire surface. It will be appreciated that the size, dimensions, contour, and structure of the sensors 16 and contacts 40 , 42 may be varied in other embodiments while retaining similar functionality. Also, sensors 16 having the same size may be used in different sizes of inserts 37 for different shoe sizes, in this case, for different insert 37 sizes, The dimensions of the sensors 16 relative to the overall dimensions of 37 ) may be different.

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

3 to 22B , in one embodiment, the insert 37 has an interior configured to allow air flow through the insert 37 during compression and/or flexing of the insert 37 . an air flow system 70 . 9 , 11 , 13 , 18 , 22A , 22B , and 28-30 show the components of the air flow system 70 in more detail. The air flow system 70 allows air to flow from the sensor 16 during compression, between the first and second layers 66 , 68 , and outwardly through the vent(s) 72 of the insert 37 . It may include one or more air passages or channels 71 leading from the sensor 16 to one or more vents 72 to allow outflow. The air flow system 70 resists excessive pressure build-up during compression of the sensor 16, or permits continuous disconnection of the contacts 40, 42 of the sensor 16 at various air pressures and altitudes, resulting in more sustained performance. induce A channel 71 may be formed between the first and second layers 66 , 68 . As shown in FIG. 18 , the spacer layer 67 has channels 71 formed therein through which air can be vented through suitable vents between the first and second layers 66 , 68 . Up to (s) 72 may be flowed. The spout 72 may have a filter 73 covering the spout in one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 22B . This filter 73 may be configured to allow air, moisture, and debris to pass to the outside of the spout 72 and to prevent moisture and debris from passing into the spout 72 . In other embodiments, the insert 37 may not include a spacer layer, and the channels 71 may form the layers 66, 68 in a particular pattern, for example by application of a non-sealable material. may be formed by not sealing them together. Accordingly, the air flow system 70 may be considered integral with or formed directly by the layers 66 , 68 in such embodiments. In other embodiments, the air flow system 70 may include different numbers or configurations of air channels 71 , vents 72 , and/or other passageways.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3-22B , 28 , and 30 , the air flow system 70 connects two vents 72 , and each of the four sensors 16 to one of the vents 72 . It comprises a plurality of air channels (71) for connecting. The spacer layer 67 includes a hole 43 in each sensor in this embodiment, with a channel 71 connected to the hole 43 so that air flows away from the sensor 16 through the channel 71 . make it possible Additionally, in this embodiment, two of the sensors 16 are connected to each of the vents 72 via channels 71 . For example, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 7-18 , the first metatarsal sensor 16b has a channel extending slightly posterior to the first metatarsal region of the insert 37 to the outlet 72 71 , the first phalanx sensor 16a has a channel 71 that also extends through the passageway including movement through the first metatarsal sensor 16b to the same outlet 72 . In other words, the first phalanx sensor 16a includes a channel 71 extending from a hole 43 located in the first phalanx sensor 16a to a hole 43 located in the first metatarsal sensor 16b, and It has another channel 71 extending from the first metatarsal sensor 16b to the outlet 72 . Fifth metatarsal sensor 16c and heel sensor 16d also share a common outlet 72 located within the heel portion of insert 37 . One channel 71 extends rearward from the hole 43 located in the fifth metatarsal sensor 16c to the outlet 72, and the other channel 71 is a hole 43 located in the heel sensor 16d. It extends forwardly from the jet port (72). Sharing the vent 72 among multiple sensors can save costs, particularly by avoiding the need for an additional filter 73 . In other embodiments, the air flow system 70 may have other configurations, such as those shown in FIGS. 22C and 22D and described below. In further embodiments, each sensor 16 may have its own individual vent 72 , or more than two sensors 16 may share the same vent 72 .

Each spout 72 is formed as an opening in the bottom side of the second layer 68 (ie the side opposite the first layer 66), such that such openings are shown in FIGS. 16-18 and 22A and 22B , allowing air, moisture and/or debris to flow outward from the air flow system 70 . In other embodiments, the spout 72 may include multiple openings. In further embodiments, vents 72 may additionally or alternatively be formed by openings in first layer 66 , thereby allowing air to vent upwards outwardly of insert 37 . . In an additional embodiment, the spout 72 is provided on the side of the insert 37 such that the channel 71 opens through the edge to the outside of the insert 37 , for example by extending the channel 71 to the edge. (thin edge). 3 to 22B , as in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 28 and 30 , blowing air downward makes it more difficult for debris to enter the spout 72 . The bottom layer 69 , if present, also includes an opening 74 located below the vents 72 , such that air flowing out of the vents 72 will pass through the bottom layer 69 . make it possible As will be described below, openings 74 are provided with openings 74 to allow the filter 73 to be adhesively attached to the second layer 68 through the bottom layer 69 around the perimeter of each vent 72 . (72) is significantly greater. Additionally, in this embodiment, each spout 72 has a reinforcing material 75 disposed around the spout 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 (eg, silver or other metallic ink) as the leads 18 to facilitate printing, but from the same material as the sensor contacts 40 and 42 (eg, silver or other metallic ink). for example, carbon) or the dielectric materials described herein.

3 to 22B, the vent 72 of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 28 and 30 is downwardly open, and air passing through the vent 72 is directed towards the midsole 131 and the foam member 138 (which is present case) is transmitted downward. 3-5 , 28 and 30 , the foam member 138 is positioned directly below the vents 72 and configured such that air exiting the vents is directed into the respective cavities 76 . It has a cavity 76 . 3-5, 28, and 30, each cavity 76 passes completely through the foam member 138, which may be formed by punching, cutting, or other techniques. It is formed as an extending slot. In other embodiments, the cavity 76 may be a depression that extends through only a portion of the foam member 138 , or may contain at least a portion of a structure (eg, strobel, midsole, etc.) below the foam member 138 . As through, it may extend deeper than the foam member 138 . In additional embodiments, the window structure may not include a foam member 138 , wherein the cavity 76 is at least in part by slots, depressions, or other cavity-like structures for other windows, such as strobels, midsoles, etc. It may be formed in the member. As shown in FIG. 5 , at least a portion of the cavity 76 may be circular in one embodiment and may extend wider than the vent 72 to provide space for air blowing. This configuration allows air to be delivered to the outside of the spout 72 without obstruction of the foam member 138 . In other embodiments, the insert 37 may be disposed over another window member (eg, a portion of the midsole 131 ), which may include one or more cavities 76 as described above. In additional embodiments, voids may not be present and air may be blown directly downward into the foam member 138 or other window member. One or both of the cavities 76 may have an extending portion defining a passageway 77 through which air may be further passed out of the cavity 76 . 3-5 , 28 , and 30 , each of the cavities 76 comprises a channel portion extending laterally away from the cavity 76 and beyond the peripheral boundary of the insert 37 . 77). In other words, the channel portion 77 of the cavity 76 extends laterally from the spout 72 to a distal end 78 located outside the peripheral boundary of the insert 37 . In the case where the foam member 138 has a depression 139 for receiving the insert member 37 , the distal end 78 of the channel portion 77 of the cavity 76 is also a portion of the depression 139 . It will be appreciated that it may be located outside of the perimeter boundary. 3-5 , the distal end 78 extends to the edge of the foam member 138 . This configuration allows the air delivered into the cavity 76 to pass laterally through the channel portion 77 and then upwardly and/or outwardly away from the foam member 138 , thereby the window structure 130 . make it possible to exit Figure 28 shows a schematic cross-section of this configuration, with arrows showing the flow of air. The configuration shown in FIGS. 3-5 , 28 , and 30 , while preventing debris (eg, dust, fibers, etc.) and moisture from migrating to and through the spout 72 , , allowing air to flow out of the vents 72 and possibly back into the vents 72 . The combined downward, lateral, and upward paths through which air must pass to travel to and from vent 72 serve to resist this movement, and debris may be present in plumbing applications. Quite similar to the drainage catches of , it will often be trapped near the distal end 78 of the cavity 76 .

In other embodiments, the distal end 78 may be interrupted at a point within the foam member 138 and still outside the peripheral boundary of the insert 37 , such that air passes through the cavity 76 at the distal end 78 . allow it to eject upwards outwardly, and serve the same or similar function. 36-38 and 47 show exemplary embodiments of such a configuration. To allow air passage through the foot contacting member 133, such as the passageway 79 shown in Figs. 28 and 30, the foot contacting member 133 of the embodiment of Figs. It will be appreciated that it may include a passageway disposed about the distal end 78 of the 76 . In a further embodiment, at least a portion of the channel portion 77 may be a tunnel in the foam member 138 instead of a slit. In such a configuration, the channel portion 77 may have a tunnel portion and an open portion that allows air passing through the tunnel to blow upward, or, to allow lateral jetting, the tunnel portion may have a foam member 138 . can be fully extended to the edge of 29 shows a cross-section of an alternative embodiment, wherein the foam member 138 includes a cavity 76 but does not include a channel portion 77.

Additionally, the foot contacting member 133, in the embodiments of FIGS. 3-5 , 28 , and 30 , is via a foot contacting member 133 located at the distal end 78 of the cavity 76 . and one or more passageways 79 extending therefrom. 28 and 30 , the passageway 79 may be a pinhole-type passageway 79 that extends vertically through the foot contact member 133 . In other embodiments, other types of passageways 79 including slits or grooves may be used, wherein the at least one passageway 79 is not upwardly through the thickness of the foot contacting member 133 , but rather the foot contacting member. It may extend laterally to the side of (133). Passage 79 allows air exiting through vent 72 and outwardly through cavity 76 to pass through foot contact member 133 and out of window structure 130 . In other embodiments, the foot contacting member 133 may not include any passageway(s) 79 . The foot contact member 133 may still provide ventilation in a configuration without any passageway(s) 79 , for example by using a breathable foam or other breathable material to construct the foot contact member 133 . have.

As noted above, in one embodiment, the insert 37 includes one or more filters 73 that at least partially cover the spout(s) 72 , as shown in FIGS. 22B and 28 and 29 . can have The filter 73 can be considered as an optional permeable closure covering the vent 72, at least allowing the passage of air out of the vent 72 and preventing the passage of certain undesirable substances into the vent. . For example, in the embodiments of FIGS. 3-22B, 28, and 30 , filter 73 allows inward and outward flow of air, and also inhibits inward flow of moisture and/or particles. It is an optional permeable closure that allows the outward flow of moisture while still remaining. One type of filter 73 that can achieve this function is a fluoroplastic porous membrane, for example a porous membrane comprising PTFE (ie, Teflon) fibers. Such a porous membrane may be a porous membrane with a thickness of 10) lm to 100) lm in one embodiment. In a filter 73 comprising PTFE fibers, the large surface energy of PTFE causes water to roll on the surface of the filter 73 instead of penetrating. Filter 73 may also have adhesive on one side so that filter 73 can be connected to insert 37, and a polyester material to provide shear strength for the porous membrane, connected to the inwardly and outwardly facing sides. It may have other materials such as In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3-22B, 28, and 30 , the filter 73 is glued to the bottom side of the second layer 68 around the perimeter of the spout 72 to cover the spout 72 . is attached 3 to 22b , 28 , and 30 , in order to allow the filter 73 to be adhesively attached to the second layer 68 , the bottom layer 69 is significantly larger than the spout 72 . It includes a larger opening 74 . In other embodiments, a different type of filter 73 may be used, and/or the filter 73 may be connected to the insert 37 in other ways. In a further embodiment, the filter 73 may not be used.

36-44 show an insert comprising an air flow system 70 having a different arrangement of channels 71 and spouts 72 than the insert 37 described above and shown in FIGS. A sensor system 412 with 437 is shown. 22C and 22D and 45-47 are inserts comprising an air flow system 70 having channels 71 and vents 72 arranged similar to the insert 437 of FIGS. 36-44 . An additional embodiment of sieve members 37', 537 is shown. The positions of the sensors 16a-16d of the embodiment of FIGS. 22C and 22D are generally the same as in the embodiments of FIGS. 3-22B, 28, and 30, as indicated by dashed lines on the spacer layer 67 of FIG. 22C. is shown. Such structural features are not described herein again for the sake of brevity. In the embodiment of the insert 437 of FIGS. 36-44 , the first phalanx sensor 16a and the first metatarsal sensor 16b are configured substantially the same as described above, with the same outlet by channel 71 . (72) is connected. The fifth metatarsal sensor 16c and the heel sensor 16d are also located within the fifth metatarsal region of the insert 437 , rather than in the heel region as in the embodiments of FIGS. 3-22B , 28 , and 30 . It shares a common vent 72 where it is located. In this configuration, the heel sensor 16d has a channel 71 extending from a hole 43 located at the heel sensor 16d to a hole 43 located at the fifth metatarsal sensor 16c, and the other channel 71 extends from the fifth metatarsal sensor 16c to the outlet 72 . 36-44, the location of the spout 72 is different from the embodiment described above, so that the insert 437 includes features specifically configured for the spout 72 in this location. It can be used in conjunction with the window structure (130). 36-38 show a foam member 138 including a window structure 130 and a cavity 76 disposed to cooperate with the spout 72 of the insert 437 . This cavity 76 functions similarly to the cavity 76 of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3-5 and described herein. For example, the foam member 138 may extend forwardly beyond the peripheral edge of the insert 437 to provide an ejection of air from the vent 72 within the fifth metatarsal region of the insert 437 . a cavity 76 in the fifth metatarsal region of the window structure 130 . The foam member 138 also includes a window structure that extends rearwardly beyond the peripheral edge of the insert 437 to provide an ejection of air from the vent 72 within the first metatarsal region of the insert 437. 130) in the first metatarsal region. The inserts 37', 537 of FIGS. 22C-22D and 45-47 may utilize a foam member 138 having a similarly positioned cavity 76 in various embodiments. It will be appreciated that different locations and configurations of the cavity 76 may be used in other embodiments. In a further embodiment, one window structure 130 has multiple cavities 76 arranged for use with several different types of inserts 37 , 37 , 437 , 537 having different spout 72 positions. ) may be included. In this embodiment, depending on the configuration of the insert 37 , at least a portion of the cavity 76 may not be used, see below. In additional embodiments, any features, characteristics, etc. of an embodiment of the air flow system 70 described herein can be applied to the sensor system 12 , insert 37 , as well as other embodiments of the air flow system 70 . , and/or other embodiments of footwear 100 .

3 to 22B , as described above, the spacer layer 67 requires electrical contact, such as in the path 50 and between the contacts 40 , 42 of the sensor 16 . The conductive members/components on the first and second layers 66 , 68 are generally insulated from each other, except where The spacer layer 67 has holes 38 , 43 for forming regions of desired electrical contact between the layers 66 , 68 . A component of the air flow system 70 , in particular the channel 71 , may provide a path for a short circuit or other undesirable electrical contact by one or more conductive members between the first and second layers 66 , 68 . can In one embodiment, the sensor system 12 comprises one or more dielectric elements to resist or prevent undesirable shorting by one or more conductive members across the open area of the spacing layer 67 , such as the channel 71 . may include a patch 80 of material. This dielectric material 80 may be in the form of an acrylic ink or other UV-curable ink, or other insulating material suitable for the application. In the embodiment shown in Figures 16 and 17, the insert 37 is extends across the channel 71 to insulate from each other the distribution leads 18A positioned around the sensor contacts 40 , 42 . It has several patches 80 of dielectric material. 16 and 17, dielectric material 80 is connected to the top side of second layer 68 and covers distribution lead 18A, although in other embodiments, dielectric material 80 may be One layer (66, 68) may be connected, or both layers may have dielectric material (80). In a further embodiment, the spacer layer 67 may have dielectric "crosslinks" over the channels 71 . Additionally, the dielectric material completely covers a portion of the distribution lead 18A and is wider than the width of the channel 71 , which compensates for shift or displacement of the spacer layer 67 or differences in manufacturing tolerances. In this embodiment, the insert 37 comprises one patch 80 on the posterior side of the first phalanx sensor 16a, two patches 80 on the anterior and posterior ends of the first metatarsal sensor 16b; distribution lead 18A and one of the channels 71, including one patch 80 on the posterior side of the fifth metatarsal sensor 16c, and one patch 80 on the anterior side of the heel sensor 16d. having a patch 80 of dielectric material located at each intersection of In another embodiment, the insert 37 is positioned anywhere on the insert 37 to insulate other portions of the distribution lead 18A or other conductive members from short circuits between the layers 66 and 68. It may have a patch of dielectric material. It will be appreciated that the spacer layer 67 having a different configuration with otherwise shaped and/or positioned holes, openings, openings, etc. may result in the use of the dielectric material 80 in other locations for insulating purposes. will be. As described herein, dielectric material 80 may be used as a reinforcing or reinforcing material in other locations.

3 to 22B , the port 14 , the sensor 16 , and the lead 18 form a circuit 10 on the insert member 37 . Port 14 has a plurality of terminals 11 , each of the four terminals 11 individually for one of the four sensors 16 , and one terminal 11 provides a voltage to the circuit 10 . to apply, and one terminal (1) is for voltage measurement. In this embodiment, the sensor system 12 also includes a pair of resistors 53 , 54 , and a path 50 connecting the circuitry on the first layer 66 with the circuitry on the second layer 68 , Each resistor is located in one of layers 66 , 68 . Resistors 53 and 54 provide a reference point for the module 22 to measure the resistance of each sensor 16, and the module 22 converts the variable current from the active sensor 16 to a measurable voltage. make it possible to convert Additionally, resistors 53 , 54 are arranged in parallel in circuit 10 , which may cause variations in circuit 10 and/or variations in the manufacturing process used to create resistors 53 , 54 , e.g. For example, it compensates for variations in the conductivity of the ink used to print the leads 18 and/or the sensor contacts 40 , 42 . In one embodiment, the equivalent resistance of the two resistors 53 and 54 is 1500 +/- 500 kΩ. In other embodiments, one resistor 53, 54 or two resistors 53, 54 in series may be used. In additional embodiments, resistors 53 , 54 may be disposed anywhere on insert 37 , or may be located within the circuitry of module 22 . A more technical depiction of the circuit 10 of this embodiment is described below and is shown in FIG. 20 .

20 shows a circuit 10 that may be used to detect and measure pressure in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The circuit 10 includes a power terminal 104a for applying a voltage to the circuit 10, a measurement terminal 104b for measuring a voltage as described below, and individually to one of the sensors 16a-16d. 6 terminals 104a through 104f, each of which is designated as and including 4 sensor terminals 104c through 104f each representing ground in this embodiment. Terminals 104a - 104f represent terminal 11 of port 14 . In the illustrated embodiment, constant resistors 102a and 102b, representing resistors 53 and 54, are connected in parallel. The constant resistors 102a and 102b may be physically located on separate layers. The equivalent resistance across terminals 104a and 104b is determined by the well-known equation:

<maths num="1"><img file="KR20220114101A_D0001.tif" /></maths>

From here:

R102a = resistance of constant resistor 102a

R102b = resistance of constant resistor 102b

Req = equivalent resistance.

Electrically connecting the constant resistors 102a and 102b in parallel compensates for variations in the manufacturing process used to create the constant resistors 102a and 102b. For example, in the case where the constant resistor 102a has a resistance deviating from the desired resistance, the deviation of the equivalent resistance determined by Equation 1 is minimized by the averaging effect of the constant resistor 102b. Those skilled in the art will understand that the two constant resistors are presented for illustration purposes only. Additional constant resistors may be connected in parallel, and each constant resistor may be formed on a different layer.

In the embodiment shown in Figure 20, constant resistors 102a and 102b are coupled to sensors 16a-16d. As described above, the sensors 16a to 16d may be implemented as variable resistors that change resistance in response to a change in pressure. Each of the sensors 16a to 16d may be implemented with a plurality of variable resistors. In one embodiment, each of sensors 16a-16d is implemented with two variable resistors physically located on 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 engage each other to a greater extent when the applied pressure is increased and , the resistance of the sensors 16a to 16d may decrease as the coupling increases. As noted above, connecting resistors in parallel creates an equivalent resistance that minimizes variations created during the manufacturing process. In other embodiments, the contacts 40 and 42 may be arranged in series. Sensors 16a - 16d may be connected to ground via switches 108a - 108d. For sensor connection, switches 108a - 108d may be closed at a time. In some embodiments, switches 108a - 108d are implemented as transistors or integrated circuits.

In operation, a voltage level such as 3 volts is applied to terminal 104a. To connect one of the sensors 16a-16d to ground, switches 108a-16d are closed at one point. When connected to ground, each of sensors 16a-16d forms a voltage divider with the combination of constant resistors 102a and 102b. For example, when switch 108a is closed, the voltage between terminal 104a and ground is divided between sensor 16a and the combination of constant resistors 102a and 102b. 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 a 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 combined constant resistors 104a and 104b of known values. Similarly, selectively closing switches 108b - 108d will create a voltage level at terminal 104b that is related to the pressure applied at sensors 16a - 16d. It will be appreciated that the connections between sensors 16b-16d and terminals 104c-104f may be different in other embodiments. For example, sensors 16a - 16d are connected to different pins of interface 20 in left shoe insert 37 as compared to right shoe insert 37 , as shown in FIG. 12 . In other embodiments, voltage levels may be applied in the opposite manner, with ground positioned at terminal 104a and voltage applied across terminals 104c-104f. In additional embodiments, other circuit configurations may 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 will be appreciated that the resistors may have different structures in other embodiments. Each resistor 53 , 54 has two sections 55 , 56 spaced apart from each other and a bridge 57 positioned between and connecting the sections 55 , 56 . 15 and 17 show more specific views of resistors 53 and 54, with one resistor 53 shown from the top and the other resistor 54 shown from the bottom side. Sections 55 , 56 may be connected to different leads 18 , such that an electronic signal or current entering resistor 53 , 54 through one lead 18 crosses bridge 57 . It can be moved between sections 55 , 56 and then exit through another lead 18 . Sections 55 , 56 may be formed as inner section 55 , and outer section 56 substantially surrounding inner section 55 , thus providing a space between sections 55 and 56 within a small area. It can provide a long length for transmission. In this embodiment, bridge 57 also substantially surrounds inner section 55 and is substantially surrounded by outer section 56 . As will be seen and understood in FIGS. 15-17 , the bridge 57 partially overlaps both the inner section 55 and the outer section 56 to allow transmission through the bridge 57 . 15 and 17 , the inner section 55 is formed in a circular or substantially circular shape. The outer section 56 is, in this embodiment, formed at least in part by a semi-annular ring shape that at least partially surrounds the inner section 55 and is spaced from the inner section around the inner edge of the ring. In this embodiment, the bridge 57 is also at least partially formed by a semi-annular ring shape having inner and outer semi-circular edges, the bridge 57 at least partially surrounding the inner section 55 and It at least partially fills the space between the sections 55 , 56 . 17 , the inner edge of the bridge 57 overlaps the inner section 55 , and the outer edge of the bridge 57 overlaps the outer section 56 . Additionally, in this embodiment, a gap 58 is formed through the outer section 56 and the bridge 57 , allowing the lead 18 to be connected to the inner section 55 , and the bridge 57 . ) without contacting the outer section 56 of the In other words, the semi-annular ring-shaped outer section 56 and the bridge 57 have ends forming a gap 58 therebetween. It will be appreciated that the relative shape, size, and arrangement of sections 55 , 56 and bridge 57 may be different in other embodiments.

In one embodiment, the bridge 57 may be formed of a more resistive material than the sections 55 and 56, thus providing the majority of the resistance of the respective resistors 53 and 54. Sections 55 , 56 may be formed at least in part from a highly conductive material, such as a silver material. 3 to 22B, the inner and outer sections 55, 56 are formed of the same material as the lid 18, such as a printed silver-based or other metal-based 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 will be appreciated that the inner and outer sections 55, 56 and/or bridge 57 may be formed of other materials in other embodiments.

Path 50 generally permits continuous and/or uninterrupted electrical communication and carries electronic signals between first and second layers 66 , 68 . In the embodiment of FIGS. 3-22B , port 14 is directly connected to second layer 68 , path 50 is connected to port 14 and sensor contacts 40 on first layer 66 , 68 . ) can serve as a vertical path between In this embodiment, the path 50 includes conductive portions 51 on the first layer 66 and the second layer 68 , such that the conductive portions 51 are continuously coupled to each other so that the first and continuous electrical communication between the second layers 66 , 68 (see, eg, FIG. 21 ). In this embodiment, the spacing layer 67 includes a hole 38 that is aligned with the pathway 50 and allows continuous coupling between the conductive portions 51 through the spacing layer 67 . Additionally, in the embodiment of FIGS. 3-22B , each of the conductive portions 51 is divided into two sections 52 separated by an elongate gap 59 ( FIG. 15 ). This conductive section 52 has a substantially semi-circular shape in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3 to 22B , and the conductive portion 51 has a generally circular shape. Section 52 on first layer 66 has substantially the same shape as section 52 on second layer 68, has substantially the same size, and is substantially co-located, so that each layer ( Sections on 66 , 68 are joined with corresponding sections 52 on other layers 66 , 68 . The gap 59 on the two layers 66 , 68 is also substantially aligned in this embodiment. In other words, the conductive part 51 may be arranged such that the left sections 52 of the conductive parts 51 are coupled to each other and the right sections 52 of the conductive parts 51 are coupled to each other, There is no direct coupling between any one of the left sections 52 and any one of the right sections 52 . This configuration could alternatively be described as creating two separate, side-by-side paths between the first and second layers 66 , 68 , each section 52 having a separate conductivity forming a respective path. can be considered as parts. Conductive portion 51 of path 50 is formed of a conductive material, and in one embodiment, conductive portion 51 is formed of the same material as lead 18 , such as a silver-based ink or other metallic ink. can be In other embodiments, pathway 50, and its components described herein, may have different sizes, shapes, shapes, and locations, and may be formed of different materials.

In one embodiment, path 50 may be at least partially surrounded by or bounded by reinforcing structure 60 to provide structural support and/or effect. 7 to 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 also, in other embodiments, the lead 18 . ) may include an additional gap to pass through and connect to the conductive portion 51 . In this embodiment, the reinforcement 60 serves to assist the coupling between the conductive parts 51 to achieve maximum coupling between the conductive parts 51 . 21 shows this configuration in more detail. It will be appreciated that FIG. 21 is at least partially schematic in nature, and that the relative sizes of the components shown in FIG. 21 may be exaggerated for effect and understanding. Additionally, FIG. 21 does not show the bottom layer 69 for clarity of illustration of the other layers 66 , 67 , 68 . In general, the spacer layer 67 provides separation between the conductive portions 51 , so that the layers 66 , 68 form a path 50 to allow the conductive portions 51 to be coupled to each other. should be biased towards each other.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 21 , the hole 38 in the spacer layer 67 allows the conductive portions 51 to be biased towards and coupled to each other. To achieve this contact, a vacuum is applied to the first and second layers 66 , 68 or rollers are applied over the assembled insert 37 at the location of the path 50 , for example, to remove excess air. By passing it through, it can be pressed otherwise. The bias of the layers 66 , 68 towards each other is annular on one or both of the layers 66 , 68 around the rim of the hole 38 , where the layer or layers 66 , 68 are biased towards each other. A transition region 61 is created. In this embodiment, the transition region 61 is defined by an outer annular break line 61a and an inner annular break line 61b, and the transition region 61 is between the break line 61a and the break line 61b. and the conductive portion 51 is within the internal breakdown line 61b. In this configuration, the first and second layers 66 , 68 are generally horizontal outside the outer break line 61 a and within the inner break line 61 a , and the first and second layers 66 , 68 transition In regions 61 , inclined towards each other creates a bond between the conductive parts 51 . The hole 38 has a larger dimension than the reinforcement 60 , so that the reinforcement 60 is disposed adjacent to the edge of the hole 38 . In such a configuration, the increased stiffness of the reinforcement 60 tends to cause the layers 66 and 68 to make a sharp transition from horizontal to at least partially vertical at the location of the reinforcement 60, and thus Reinforcement 60 tends to form transition region 61 .

As shown in FIG. 21 , the position of the transition region 61 in the reinforcement 60 ensures maximum contact between the conductive parts 51 inside the region 62 bounded by the transition region 61 . allow In one embodiment, most of the conductive portions 51 are continuously coupled to each other through holes 38 inside the region 62 bounded by the transition region 61 . In another embodiment, the conductive portions 51 are continuously coupled to each other through the hole 38 over all or substantially the entirety of the area 62 bounded by the transition region 61 . This continuous contact helps to ensure that path 50 and circuit 10 are uninterrupted and function properly. An adhesive may be used at or around the path 50 to enhance bonding between the layers 66 , 68 in the path 50 . Reinforcing portion 60 may be formed of any material having suitable strength, and in one embodiment, may be formed of a material having a greater stiffness than the material of conductive portion 51 . One example of such a material is carbon black or other carbon-based material, although in other embodiments other materials may be used, including other types of printable materials.

Reinforcement 60 may also help achieve continuous coupling between conductive portions 51 in different ways. 3 to 22B , the reinforcement 60 is carbon-based, which may more absorb many wavelengths of light, compared to the metal-based ink of the conductive portion 51 , which may have a reflective tendency. formed by the ink of The ink on layers 66 , 68 may be cured using IR radiation, and in this embodiment, reinforcement 60 may absorb a greater amount of IR radiation than conductive portion 51 . Such absorption may tend to heat the area of layers 66, 68 directly below reinforcement 60, causing a temperature gradient across the thickness of layers 66, 68, and thus layers 66, 68. ) is higher on the surface on which the reinforcement 60 is printed and cooler on the opposite surface. This temperature gradient, in turn, can cause differential expansion/contraction at the opposing surfaces of the layers 66 , 68 around the reinforcement 60 , and thus the higher temperature surface located on the reinforcement 60 . The silver can be retracted relative to the surface opposite the reinforcement 60 , such that the region of each layer 66 , 68 inside the reinforcement 60 (ie, located in the conductive portion 51 ) protrudes. It can be raised or concave slightly upwards. These protrusions in the layers 66 , 68 allow the conductive portions 51 on the layers 66 , 68 to extend closer together, which may result in increased coupling between the conductive portions 51 , thus It may help to achieve a continuous or substantially continuous coupling of the conductive portions 51 in the reinforcement 60 . The protrusions of layers 66 and 68 may additionally or alternatively be enhanced by mechanical stamping or other pre-straining action to create a protruding or concave effect. Joining techniques such as ultrasonic spot welding or other spot welding may additionally or alternatively be used to increase the coupling between the conductive parts 51 . In one embodiment, an ultrasonic spot melting point may be used as a waffle pattern between the conductive parts 51 to hold the conductive parts 51 coupled to each other.

Gap 59 in path 50 may serve multiple functions. One function that may be provided by the gap 59 is to create an electrical separation between the sections 52 of the path 50 to create a separate connection between the layers 66 , 68 . Another function that may be provided by the gap 59 is to increase the durability of the path 50 during bending of the insert 37 . Generally, the user's foot moves from the fifth metatarsal region (also referred to as the fifth metatarsal head region or the fifth metatarsal region) to the first metatarsal region (also referred to as the first metatarsal head region or the first metatarsal region). will have a tendency to "roll" until 3 to 22B , the path 50 is positioned around the second and/or third metatarsal region of the insert 37 , such that the rolling of the user's foot passes directly over the path 50 . . Repeated rolling of this nature may cause bending of the conductive portion 51 , which, in turn, may cause grinding, breaking, separation, and the like. Gap 59, when properly aligned, can serve as a point of bending to minimize bending of conductive portion 51. 3 to 22B , the gap 59 extends generally perpendicular to the typical direction of rolling of the user's foot, or in other words, between the fifth metatarsal region and the first metatarsal region of the insert 37 . aligned perpendicular to the line. In one embodiment, an imaginary line L (see FIG. 10 ) may be drawn between the sensor 16b in the first metatarsal region and the sensor 16c in the fifth metatarsal region, the gap 59 being this line ( It can be aligned perpendicular to L) or within +/- 45° of perpendicular to line L. A line L as shown in FIG. 10 is between the anterior edge (eg, anterior center) of the first metatarsal sensor 16b and the posterior edge (eg, posterior centre) of the fifth metatarsal sensor 16c. drawn in In other embodiments, the gap 59 (if present) may be otherwise positioned, particularly where the pathway 50 is located within different regions of the insert 37 .

52-56 illustrate another embodiment of a sensor system 612 including an insert member 37, similar to the sensor system 12 and insert 37 of FIGS. 3-22B. 52-56, the path 50 does not include a reinforcement 60 as in the embodiment of FIGS. 3-22b. Also in this embodiment the conductive portion 51 of the path 50 is enlarged to cover the area covered by the reinforcement 60 in the embodiment of FIGS. 3 to 22b . In other words, in this embodiment, the conductive portion 51 extends substantially to the edge of the hole 38 aligned with the path 50 , the portions of the conductive portion 51 , as schematically shown in FIG. 56 . , located within the transition region 61 . The increased size of the conductive portion 51 of the embodiment of FIGS. 52-56 may provide a greater surface area for potential coupling between the conductive portions 51 , thereby making the path 50 more durable and It can provide uninterrupted functionality. In other aspects, pathway 50 shares structural and functional features with embodiments of pathway 50 shown in FIGS. 3-22B and described elsewhere herein. Such similar structures and functions are not described herein again for the sake of brevity. In one embodiment, mechanical stamping or other pre-straining action may be used to create the protruding or concave effect of layers 66 , 68 , thus bonding between conductive portions 51 as described above. can improve Also, as described above, bonding techniques such as ultrasonic spot welding or other spot welding may additionally or alternatively be used to increase the bonding between the conductive portions 51 .

In other embodiments, the path 50 may be located at a different location or may have a different configuration. For example, in one embodiment, for example, using a 2-pin connection (not shown) on the first layer 66 and connecting the 2-pin connection, eg, by means of a crimping connection, of the interface 20 By connecting to the fifth and sixth terminals 11 , a path 50 may be formed at or near the terminal 11 . Other structures for forming the path 50 may be used in additional embodiments.

48-51 are configured differently from the sensor systems 12, 412, 512, 612 described herein and having different modes of operation compared to the sensor systems 12, 412, 512, 612 described herein; Another embodiment of a sensor system 712 is shown. The sensor system 712 of FIGS. 48-51 includes many structural and functional features in common with the sensor system 12 described above and shown in FIGS. 3-22B. For example, the external shape of the insert 37 of the embodiment of FIGS. 48-51 , the general location of the sensor 16 , and the configuration of the air flow system 70 are the insert 37 of FIGS. is similar or identical to the shape of the , the general location of the sensor 16 , and the configuration of the air flow system 70 . These and other common features may not be described again herein for the sake of brevity.

48-51 , the sensor system 712 includes two contacts or electrodes 740 , 742 disposed on the second layer 68 and a third disposed on the first layer 66 . It has a sensor 16 that includes a contact 744 . In this embodiment, all contacts 40 , 742 , 744 are formed of carbon-based ink as described above, and have one or more distribution leads 18A at each edge of contacts 740 , 742 , 744 . . Contacts 740 and 742 on second layer 68 may have a different conductivity than contact 744 on first layer 66 and may be formed with doped carbon-based ink to achieve greater conductivity. can Contacts 740 , 742 on second layer 68 are electrically isolated from each other and are respectively connected to port 14 by leads 18 . One power or ground lead 18B is connected to the first contact 740 of all sensors 16, and the second contact 742 of each individual sensor 16 is connected to the port ( 14) is connected.

In contrast, 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, first and second contacts 740 , 742 are electrically isolated from each other and third contact 744 is similar to contact 40 on first layer 66 of the embodiment of FIGS. 3-22B . The combined first and second contacts 740 , 742 are structured similarly to the contacts 42 on the second layer 68 of the embodiment of FIGS. In other embodiments, sensor 16 and/or contacts 740 , 742 , 744 may have other configurations. For example, in one embodiment, the contacts 744 on the first layer 66 may be one patch of carbon-based ink.

48-51, the first and second contacts 740 and 742 are electrically isolated from each other, and the third contact 744 is the first and second contact 740, 742 , so that upon applying normal pressure to sensor 16 , third contact 744 engages first and second contacts 740 , 742 . In this configuration, the signal from port 14 passes through electrodes 744 of sensor 16 on first layer 66 , thereby causing two electrodes of each sensor 16 on second layer 68 . It is moved between fields 740 and 742 . Thus, the resistivity of the sensor 16 is determined by the coupling 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 and the relationship of the sensor 16 of the embodiment of FIGS. 3-22B described herein and shown in FIG. 27 is similar. The sensitivity range, activation pressure, and other functional properties of the sensor 16 of FIGS. 48-51 may also be similar to those of the sensor 16 of the sensor system 12 of FIGS. 3-22B .

The connections at port 14 in the sensor system 712 of FIGS. 49-51 include a power terminal 104a, a measurement terminal 104b, and four sensor terminals 104c-104f, FIGS. It is similar to the connection of the embodiment schematically shown in FIG. 22b and in FIG. 20 . The resistivity/resistance measurement may 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 is one, instead of two constant resistors 53, 54 in parallel as in the embodiment of Figs. 3-22B. It includes only a constant resistor 53 . Additionally, each sensor 16 of the embodiment of FIGS. 3-22B may be considered to be five resistors in parallel, while each sensor 16 of the sensor system 712 of FIGS. 49-51 . can be considered to be two parallel resistors (contact 742 ) arranged in series with three parallel additional resistors (contact 740 ). In other embodiments, the sensor system 712 of FIGS. 48-51 may be wired to have two parallel constant resistors or any other resistor configuration described herein. It will be appreciated that in this embodiment, the path 50 between the layers 66 , 68 is not necessary, as the lead 18 connected to the port 14 is only on the second layer 68 . Accordingly, the spacer layer 67 in the sensor system 712 of FIGS. 48-51 may not include a hole 38 as in the spacer layer 67 of FIGS. 3-22B.

The insert 37 may be constructed by depositing the various components onto a polymer (eg, PET) film. In one embodiment, the insert 37 is formed by depositing a conductive metal material on each layer 66 , 68 , for example (dispensing lead 18A, conductive portion 51 of path 50 ). , by printing with a traced pattern of leads 18 (including inner and outer sections 55, 56, etc. of resistors 53, 54). The additional carbon material is then applied, for example by printing, to form the contacts 40, 42, the reinforcement 60 of the path 50, the bridge 57 of the resistors 53, 54, and the like. , may be deposited on each of the layers 66 and 68 . Additional components, such as any dielectric portions, may then be deposited. Layers 66 and 68 may be printed on the PET sheet, which in one embodiment may be cut after printing to form the outer perimeter shape.

Port 14 is configured to communicate data collected by sensor 16 to an external source in one or more known manners. In one embodiment, port 14 is a universal communications port, configured to communicate data in a universally readable format. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3-22B , port 14 includes an interface 20 for connection to electronic module 22 , shown in connection with port 14 in FIG. 3 . Additionally, in this embodiment, the port 14 is associated with a housing 24 for insertion of the electronic module 22 , located within the midfoot arch of the midsole 131 or a recess 135 in the midfoot. . 7-16 , for connection to port 14 , sensor leads 18 converge together to form an integrated interface 20 at its terminal 11 . In one embodiment, the integrated interface may include individual connections of the sensor leads 18 to the port interface 20 , for example through a plurality of electrical contacts. In other embodiments, the sensor leads 18 may be integrated to form an external interface, such as a plug-type interface or other configuration, and in a further embodiment, the sensor leads 18 may incorporate a non-integrated interface. may be formed, where each lead 18 has its own distinct terminal 11 . Also as described below, the module 22 may have an interface 23 for connection to a port interface 20 and/or a sensor lead 18 .

3 to 22b , the interface 20 takes the form of an electrical contact or terminal 11 . In one embodiment, the terminal 11 is formed on a tongue or extension 21 extending from one of the layers 66 , 68 into a hole 27 provided for the housing 24 . The extension unites the ends of the leads 18 into one region to form the interface 20 . 3 to 22b , the extension 21 extends from the second layer 68 into the hole 27 , and is bent downwards in the housing 24 to connect the terminals 11 to the housing 24 . and provide access to the interface 20 within the housing 24 . The second layer 68 is, in this embodiment, provided to increase the length of the extension 21 and to allow the extension 21 to bend downward and extend downwardly into the housing 24 . , further having slits 83 on both sides of the extension 21 . The rounded end of the slit 83 may resist the formation and/or propagation of cracks and ruptures in the material of the second layer 68 around the extension 21 . The extension 21 may pass under the flange 28 of the housing 24 and through a slot or other space under the lip 28 for extension within the housing 24 . 31 and 32 , when the flange 28 is a separate piece, the extension 21 is connected to the flange 28 before the flange 28 is connected to the barrel 29 . And it can be inserted between the barrel (29). 3 to 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, in one piece). formed). In another embodiment, the extension 21 may extend from the first layer 66 , and may include portions connected to both layers 66 , 68 , and/or connected to one or both of the layers. It may be formed as a separate piece.

The extension 21 as shown in FIGS. 3 to 22b and 32 has a reinforcing material 81 connected to the extension for reinforcing a portion of the extension 21 . This reinforcement material 81 may be selected from a number of different materials that provide strength, stiffness, wear resistance, and other reinforcement. For example, the reinforcing material 81 is formed of the same material as the dielectric material 80 used to insulate between the layers 66 and 68 in the channel 71, such as an acrylic ink or other UV curable ink. can be 3 to 22b and 32 , the reinforcing material 81 is in the form of an elongate strip that extends over the entire width of the extension 21 in the middle along the length of the extension 21 . to be. In this embodiment the extension 21 extends from the second layer 68 into the hole 27 and a reinforcing material 81 is deposited on the top side of the extension 21 so that the end of the lid 18 is extends across from above. The reinforcing material 81 may, in one embodiment, have a stiffness greater than that of the material of the lead 18 , and in another embodiment, will have a greater stiffness than the film material forming the layers 66 , 68 . can

In the configuration shown in FIGS. 3 to 22B and 32 , the extension 21 is bent downwardly into the recess 135 and into the housing 24 , as described above, to connect the terminal 11 to the housing 24 . ) and form an interface 20 within the housing 24 . 32 , the extension 21 is bent, such that the extension 21 is bent downward at the peripheral edge of the housing 24 and extends downwardly along the sidewall 25 of the housing 24 . It has an area 84 . Bend region 84 is generally linear and extends transversely across extension 21 . In the illustrated embodiment, the reinforcing material 81 is such that the strip of reinforcing material 81 extends transversely across the extension 21 at the bend region 84 and generally parallel to the bend region 84 . is located on the extension 21 . In one embodiment, the reinforcing material 81 is formed as an elongate rectangular strip and has a width sufficient to allow the reinforcing material 81 to cover the entire bending area 84 . In this position, the reinforcing material 81 serves several functions. One such function is to prevent damage to the lid 18 and/or the membrane of the extension 21 due to bending of the extension 21 . Another such function is to protect the film of the lid 18 and/or extension 21 from abrasion and abrasion in the bending area 84 , for example being rubbed against the housing 24 in that location. A further such function is to add stiffness and/or strength to the extension 21 . Other advantages of the reinforcing material 81 will be apparent to those skilled in the art. In other embodiments, reinforcing material 81 may be otherwise disposed, shaped, or configured, or that reinforcing material 81 is added to impart strength, stiffness, abrasion resistance, etc. to other components of sensor assembly 12 . It will be appreciated that alternatively or alternatively, it may be used in other locations. In a further embodiment, no reinforcing material 81 may be used, or most of the extension 21 may be covered by reinforcing material 81 .

The housing 24 may include a connecting structure such as a connector pin or spring (not shown) for establishing a connection between the interface 20 and the module 22 . In one embodiment, the port 14 is an electrical connector 82 forming an interface 20 , which may include contacts that are individually attached to the terminals 11 , as described above and shown in FIG. 32 . includes Such a connector 82 can connect the extension 21 and the terminal 11 via a crimping connection. In this embodiment, the interface 20 comprises seven terminals: four terminals 11 each connected individually to one of the sensors 16 , one serving as a measuring terminal ( 104b in FIG. 20 ). A terminal 11, and one terminal serving as a power terminal for applying a voltage to the circuit 10 (104a in FIG. 20). As described above, the power terminal may be configured differently as the ground terminal in another embodiment, and the sensor terminals ( 104c to 104f in FIG. 20 ) are configured as the power terminal. 12 , the arrangement of the sensor 16 , the lid 18 , and other components of the sensor system 12 may be different between the left and right foot inserts 37 , and the sensor ( 16 ) can be connected to a different terminal 11 in the left insert 37 , compared to the right insert 37 . In this embodiment, the first four terminals 11 are still left for connection to the sensor 16 (although potentially in a different order), and the fifth, sixth and seventh terminals 11 are left and right. All inserts 37 retain the same function. This configuration may be different in other embodiments. In other embodiments, module 22 may be specifically configured for use with left or right shoe 100 and insert 37 . The seventh terminal may be used to power an accessory such as a unique identification chip. In one embodiment, the sixth and seventh terminals 11 extend on the tail portion 21A extending from the end of the extension portion 21 . The adjunct may be connected across two terminals on the aft portion 21A for power supply to the adjunct. The appendage may include a small printed circuit board (PCB) having a memory chip attached to the rear portion 21A through anisotropic contact formation. In one embodiment, the accessory chip contains information that uniquely identifies an article of footwear 100, such as a serial number, as well as specific information, for example, whether footwear 100 is a left or right shoe, a male or female shoe; tangible information regarding the type of footwear (eg, running shoes, tennis shoes, basketball shoes, etc.), and other types of information. This information may be read by module 22 and subsequently used in the analysis, presentation, and/or organization of data from the sensors. The appendage may be sealed into the housing 24, for example via epoxy or other material.

Port 14 is configured to connect to a number of different electronic modules 22 , which may be as simple as memory components (eg, flash drives) or may include more complex features. It will be appreciated that the module 22 may be a complex component such as a personal computer, mobile device, server, or the like. Port 14 is configured to transmit data collected by sensor 16 to module 22 for storage, transmission, and/or processing. In one embodiment, port 14 , sensor 16 , and/or other components of sensor system 12 may be configured for processing of data. Ports 14 , sensors 16 , and/or other components of sensor system 12 may additionally or alternatively be connected to external device 110 or to a plurality of modules 22 and/or external device 110 . ) can be configured to send data directly to It will be appreciated that the port 14 , the sensor 16 , and/or other components of the sensor system 12 may include suitable hardware, software, etc. for this purpose. Examples of housings and electronic modules in articles of footwear are described in US Patent Application Serial No. 111416,458, published as US Patent Publication No. 2007/0260421, which is incorporated herein by reference and made a part herein. Although port 14 is shown with an electronic terminal 11 forming an interface 20 for connection to module 22, in other embodiments, port 14 may provide one or more additional or alternative communications. It may include interfaces. For example, port 14 may accept or include a USB port, a Firewire port, a 16-pin port, or other type of physical contact-based connection, or may include Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, near field communication, It may include a wireless or contactless communication interface, such as an interface for RFID, Bluetooth Low Energy, Zigbee, or other wireless communication technology, or an interface for infrared or other optical communication technology. In other embodiments, the sensor system 12 may include one or more modules 22 or more than one port 14 configured to communicate with an external device 110 . This configuration could be otherwise considered as one distributed port 14 . For example, each of the sensors 16 may have a separate port 14 for communicating with one or more electronic modules 22 , such as in the embodiment of the sensor system 812 shown in FIG. 61 . . A separate port 14 may be configured for wireless communication using wireless or contactless communication as described above. In one embodiment, each port 14 may include an RFID chip with an antenna, and in another embodiment, the port(s) 14 uses the user's body as a communication system to transmit information to the user's It can transmit from the foot to the module 22 located anywhere on the user's body. In this embodiment, the port 14 is connected to the sensor 16 by a lead 18 , and the dashed line lead 18 in FIG. 61 represents the lead 18 on the lower layer of the insert 37 . you will be able to understand Port 14 may, in various embodiments, be located between layers of insert 37 , in holes in insert 37 , or above or below insert 37 . It will be appreciated that multiple or distributed port(s) 14 may be used, with a combination of two or more sensors connected to one port 14 . In further embodiments, the sensor system 12 may include one or more ports 14 having different configurations, which may include a combination of two or more configurations described herein.

Module 22 may additionally have one or multiple communication interfaces for connecting to external device 110 to transmit data for processing, as described below and shown in FIGS. 6 and 23 . . Such interfaces may include any of the contact or contactless interfaces described above. In one example, module 22 includes at least a retractable USB connection for connection to a computer and/or for charging a battery of module 22 . In another example, module 22 may be configured for contact or contactless connection to a mobile device, such as a watch, cell phone, portable music player, or the like. Module 22 may be configured for wireless communication with external device 110 , which allows device 22 to be maintained within footwear 100 . However, in other embodiments, the module 22 may be configured to be removed from the footwear 100 to connect directly to the external device 110 for data transfer, for example, by the retractable USB connection described above. . In a wireless embodiment, the module 22 may be coupled to an antenna for wireless communication. The antenna may be shaped, sized, and positioned for use with an appropriate transmission frequency for the selected method of wireless communication. Additionally, the antenna may be located inside the module 22 or external to the module. In one example, sensor system 12 itself (eg, lead 18 and sensor 16 are conductive portions) may be used to form the antenna. Module 22 may further be positioned, positioned, and/or configured to improve antenna reception, and in one embodiment, may utilize a portion of a user's body as an antenna. In one embodiment, module 22 may be permanently mounted within footwear 100 , or alternatively, if desired, may be removed at the user's option and may remain within footwear 100 . Additionally, as further described below, the module 22 may be removed and replaced with another module 22 programmed and/or configured to otherwise collect and/or use data from the sensor 16 . can be If module 22 is permanently mounted within footwear 100 , sensor system 12 may further include an external port (not shown) to allow data transfer and/or battery charging, such as a USB or firewall port. can It will be appreciated that module 22 may be configured for both contact and contactless communication.

Although port 14 may be disposed in a variety of locations without departing from the present invention, in one embodiment, port 14 may be used, for example, when the wearer steps on foot during, for example, athletic activity and/or footwear ( 100) are provided and/or otherwise structured in a position and orientation to prevent or minimize contact and/or irritation with the wearer's feet when otherwise using. The arrangement of ports 14 in FIGS. 3 and 4 represents one such example. In another embodiment, the port 14 is disposed proximate to the heel or instep region of the shoe 100 . Other features of the footwear structure 100 help reduce or prevent contact between the wearer's foot and the port 14 (or elements connected to the port 14 ) and improve the overall comfort of the footwear structure 100 . can give For example, as described above and shown in FIGS. 3-5 , a foot contacting member 133 may fit over and at least partially cover the port 14 , thereby providing contact with the wearer's foot A padding layer may be provided between the ports 14 . Additional features may be used to reduce contact between the wearer's foot and the port 14 and to adjust for any unpleasant feel of the port 14 at the wearer's foot. If desired, an opening to the port 14 may be provided through the top surface of the foot contact member 133 without departing from the present invention. Such a configuration may be such that, for example, when additional comfort and feel control elements are provided, for example, the housing 24 , the electronic module 22 , and other features of the port 14 feel on the user's foot. may be used when including and/or made of a material for controlling the Including the various features described above in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, as well as other known methods and techniques, to reduce or prevent contact between the wearer's foot and the housing (or elements received within the housing) and to improve the overall comfort of the footwear structure. Any of the several features described above that are helpful in improving may be provided without departing from the invention.

62-76 disclose additional views of one embodiment of a port 14 configured for use with an insert member 37 . Similar structures described above will be denoted by the same or similar reference numerals. These embodiments and variations of the embodiments are specifically described below. As described and disclosed herein, port 14 forms or supports interface 20 for operative connection with module 22 . Module 22 will also be described in more detail below. Through the operable connection between port 14 and module 22 , data sensed by sensor assembly 12 may be acquired, stored, and/or processed for further use and analysis.

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

65-67 , in this embodiment, the housing 24 includes a base member 140 and a cover member 142 . The base member 140 may correspond to the barrel 29 as described above forming the side wall 25 and the base wall 26 . The first end of the base member 140 has a generally square configuration that receives the extension 21 of the insert member 37 . The second end of the base member 140 has a rounded configuration. The base member 140 forms a first section 144 and a second section 146 . The first section 144 is dimensioned to generally conform to its shape and to receive the module 22 , and the second section 146 is dimensioned to receive and support the interface assembly 156 . The second section 146 further has a first lateral slot 148 and a second lateral slot 150 communicating with each other. The first lateral slot 148 may extend wider and may be larger than the second lateral slot 150 . The housing 24 further defines a protrusion 151 at the second end for retaining the module 22 within the housing 24 . The finger depression 29A is generally disposed proximate the projection 151 . Base member 140 further has a pair of receptacles 152 for cooperating with cover member 142 .

66 and 67 , the cover member 142 has a central opening 153 dimensioned to receive the module 22 therethrough. The cover member 142 further has a beam member 154 at its first end, and the second end of the cover member 142 has a rounded configuration. The beam member 154 projects over a portion of the first section 144 when connected to the base member 140 as will be described. The underside of the cover member 142 has a pair of hanging posts 155 that cooperate with a receptacle 152 on the base member 140 as will be described. The outer perimeter of the cover member 142 forms a lip or flange 28 . In an exemplary embodiment, the cover member 142 may have a suspended wall that cooperatively forms the sidewall 25 of the housing 24 . In such a configuration, the base member 140 may form a ledge on the sidewall for receiving a hanging wall on the cover member 142 .

68-71 further illustrate the components of the interface assembly 156 . The interface assembly 156 has a carrier body 157 that supports the electrical connectors 82 as schematically described with reference to FIG. 32 . Each of the electrical connectors 82 has a distal end forming a contact resiliently supported by a carrier element 157 that cooperates with a corresponding contact on the module 22 . Electrical connector 82 has a bend about carrier element 157 and has a proximal end having a plurality of fingers 158 . In one embodiment, four fingers 158 are associated with each connector 82 , and the fingers 158 may be arranged in a calyx arrangement. As described in more detail below, the interface assembly 156 may further include a filler material 159 or a potting compound 159 . It will also be appreciated that, as shown in FIG. 69 , the end 82A of the connector is snapped off at a predetermined position prior to connection with the extension 21 of the insert member 37 . will be able

72 and 73 , the interface assembly 156 is operatively connected to the extension 21 having the lead 11 of the insert member 37 . To this end, a finger 158 is connected to the extension 21 , where there is an engagement between the lead 11 and the connecting body 82 . Such binding may be identified and understood from FIG. 72 , or may be understood from FIG. 32 . In the exemplary embodiment, the fingers 158 protrude through the extension 21 , and each of the plurality of fingers 158 extends through and engages the extension 21 in a circumferential manner. As further shown in FIG. 72 , it will be appreciated that the rear portion 21A may be further folded to be disposed adjacent to the rear side of the extension portion 21 . As discussed, the rear portion 21A with the sixth and seventh connectors may have a PCB member 90 , which may be a unique identification chip, connected to function as described above. It will be appreciated that the extension 21 and carrier element 157 are arranged to be suspended from the upper planar surface of the insert member 37 . 74 , the carrier element 157 is disposed within the first lateral slot 148 of the base member 140 of the housing 24 . The carrier element 157 is dimensioned to comfortably fit and retained within the first lateral slot 148 . The connector 82 faces into the first section 144 defined by the housing 24 . As can be appreciated from FIGS. 75 and 76 , the filler material 159 or potting compound 159 is disposed in the opening 150A in the base member 140 proximate the second lateral slot 150 ( FIG. 65 ). It will be understood that it may be injected into the second lateral slot 150 through the . The potting compound 159 may be a thermoset plastic in an exemplary embodiment, and may also be one or more other materials. The potting compound 159 fills the second lateral slot 150 and extends around the area where the extension 21 connects to the connector 82 held by the carrier element 157 , thereby providing a protective connection. provides In one embodiment, potting compound 159 maintains a desired amount of flexibility to enhance the connection between extension 21 and port 14 . The potting compound 159 may resist shock and vibration, while resisting moisture ingress and corrosive agents. It will be further appreciated that the base member 140 is disposed on the insert member 37 , and the receiver 152 is aligned with the corresponding opening 28B through the insert member 37 . A cover member 142 is disposed on the top surface of the insert member 37 , and a suspended post 155 fits into the receiver 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 that of the leg portion 28A as shown in FIG. 31 . Other connection techniques for connecting the cover member 142 to the base member 140 may be used in other embodiments, including snap connections or other mechanical connections. It will be appreciated that beam member 154 extends over interface 20 , and connector 82 is protected within housing 24 . This configuration provides a robust connection of the port 14 to the insert member 37 and provides an additional operable connection with the module 22 as described herein.

77-90 disclose additional views and features of one embodiment of a module 22 described further below. As described above, the module 22 is received by and operatively coupled to the port 14 for collecting, storing, and/or processing data received from the sensor assembly 12 . Module 22 includes, but is not limited to, printed circuit boards, power sources, light elements, interfaces, and various configurations for such purposes, including multi-axis accelerometers, gyroscopes, and/or magnetometers of different types. It will be understood to accommodate the elements.

Module 22 generally includes a housing 170 supporting an interface 23 having electrical connections that form contacts for cooperating with an interface 20 of a port 14 . As will be described in more detail below, the contacts associated with the interface 23 of the module 22 are formed such that the contacts are in a sealed configuration for protection against moisture ingress. Module 22 further has a dead-fronted LED light display that is only visually perceived when illuminated. Finally, the module 22 utilizes a unique ground plane extension that enhances the operation of the module 22 .

79-83 , the housing 170 of the module 22 supports the interface assembly 171 . The interface assembly 171 has a plurality of connectors 172 and a module carrier 173 . Each of the connectors 172 has distal ends that form contacts that together form the interface 23 of the module 22 . It will be appreciated that the connector 172 is insert molded such that material is formed around the connector 172 to form the module carrier 173 . It will also be appreciated that the portion 172A ( FIG. 79 ) of the connector 172 snaps apart at a predetermined position in order to position the connector 172 at an appropriate length for a further operable connection. Housing 170 generally has a module base member 174 having an outer base member 175 and an inner base member 176 . The housing 170 further has a module top member 177 having an outer top member 178 and an inner top member 179 . Module base members 175 , 176 , module top members 178 , 179 , and interface assembly 171 cooperate to provide a sealing configuration around connector 172 . The connector 172 may be considered to have an over-molded configuration. These components also define an interior cavity, wherein the housing 170 supports the interior components including a printed circuit board 180 operatively connected to a connector 172 .

As described, the connector body 172 is insert molded and the module carrier 173 is formed around the connector body 172 . It will be appreciated that the outer base member 175 is formed in, for example, an injection-molding process and defines an end opening. In such a process, the connector 172 may be sufficiently supported within the mold to withstand the pressures associated with the injection-molding process. An interface assembly 171 and an outer base member 175 are disposed in a mold, and the interface assembly 171 is disposed 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 . An inner base member 176 is formed around the distal ends of the module carrier 173 and connector 172 and additionally against a surface of the outer base member 175 . An inner cavity is defined by an inner base member 176 within which a printed circuit board 180 is supported, as is known. It will be appreciated that the connector 172 is operatively connected to the printed circuit board 180 . It will be further appreciated that other components of module 22 are supported within the interior cavity. As will be described in more detail below, the connector 172 is constructed in a sealing manner from an over-molding process.

A module top member 177 as shown in FIGS. 85 and 86 and FIGS. 89 and 90 , including an inner top member 179 and an outer top member 178 , is also provided in one embodiment using an implantation technique. can be formed. 88 , the inner top member 179 has a through opening 181 . The outer top member 178 is a generally planar member. The inner top member 179 is disposed over the base member 174 , and the outer top member 178 is disposed over the inner top member 179 . A top member 177 is connected to the base member 175 and surrounds the interior components of the module 22 .

In this structural configuration, the connector 172 is sealed to prevent potential moisture ingress. 84 , carrier element 173 is surface-to-surface with connector 172 , generally at the inner surface of connector 172 . Also, the inner base member 176 is disposed about the connector 172 generally at the outer surface of the connector 172 . The inner base member 176 further has an engagement surface 182 that abuts and engages the engagement surface 183 defined by the outer base member 175 . As further shown in Fig. 84, in such a configuration, the tortuous path indicated by the dotted line L is formed. Such a serpentine path L minimizes the opportunity for moisture entry. For example, a user may run through a puddle of water during use, thereby exposing port 14 and module 22 to moisture. In the exemplary embodiment, the connector 172 is considered to be closed up to 5 ATM. A bonding material (eg, adhesive) is placed between the module carrier 173 and the inner base member 176 proximate the tortuous path L, such as at one or both points P in FIG. 84 . can be used in

It will be appreciated that the module 22 is housed within the port 14 . The front end of the module 22 is inserted through the central opening 153 and into the first section 144 . The module 22 is generally dimensioned to correspond in size to the first section 144 and to be an interference fit. In such a configuration, the interface 23 on the module 22 is operatively coupled with the interface 20 on the port 14 , and each contact of the interfaces 20 , 23 is in surface-to-surface contact. Accordingly, the configuration is such that the interface 23 of the module 22 is forced against the interface 20 of the port 14 . The module 22 may have a depression 184 on the back surface that receives the protrusion 151 of the housing 24 to help retain the module 22 within the port 14 through a snap connection. have. The user can easily remove the module 22 from the port by accessing the module 22 with the assistance of the finger depression 29A. Thus, the module 22 can be easily inserted into the port 14 when needed, for example, for charging or data transfer, or to transfer one type of module 22 for one application into another. It can be removed from the port 14 when replacing with another type of module for

85-90, the module 22 includes a light assembly 185 to provide an illuminated indication to the user. The light assembly 185 is operatively connected to the printed circuit board 180 . The light assembly 185 generally includes a light member 186 and a light guide 187 . Light member 186 is an LED light member in an exemplary embodiment, but other light members may be used. The light member 186 has an arcuate section 188 and is configured to project light in a first direction as shown by arrow A1 , which in an exemplary embodiment may be horizontal. Light member 186 may be considered to be a side-firing LED. The light guide 187 has a first section 189 defining a first passage 190 configured in a first direction. The first section 189 has a recessed area corresponding to and receiving the generally arcuate section 188 of the light member 186 in order to capture as much light as possible from the light member 186 . Accordingly, the first section 189 faces with respect to 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 geometry that helps to spread the light over a larger area, thereby diffusing the light along an arc. The light guide 187 further has a second section 191 defining a second passage 192 configured in a second direction. The second passageway 192 extends upwardly and at an angle, and thus differs from the first direction. In one exemplary embodiment, the second section 191 is inclined at an angle of about 45 degrees determined to enhance reflection of light. The second passageway 192 has a distal end disposed proximate the opening 181 in the inner top member 179 . The light guide 187 may be treated with a dispersant, for example by adding a dispersant agent to the resin prior to injection molding the light guide. Because light member 186 and light guide 187 are configured in a face-to-face relationship, the component achieves a minimized footprint, which is aided by the limited area formed within module 22 . In operation, the light member 186 is activated as desired via the printed circuit board 180 . Light is projected in the direction shown by arrow A1. Light is also projected in an arcuate configuration based on the shape of the light guide 187 . Light is also projected in these directions into the first passageway 190 . The light guide 187 directs the light upward in the direction of arrow A2 into the second passageway 192 . As the light is initially projected from the side lit LED, the light transitions in an oblique direction from the direction A1 towards the second passageway 192 . Light then passes through opening 181 in direction A2 and illuminates through outer top member 178 . The geometry of the light guide 187 is configured to evenly distribute the light in a very short path-length as shown. The dispersant used with the light guide 187 helps to disperse the light more evenly, thereby minimizing the concentration of light from the light member 186 . Due to the short path-length involved, the LED light member 186 can project light with a more focused luminous intensity in a particular area. In this design, the light is more uniformly diffused and reflected where there is a limited gradient of light across the aperture 181 . The outer top member 178 disposed over the opening 181 is structured with a colorant addition and thickness of material to provide the desired translucency. Thus, as can be understood from FIGS. 90 and 91 , when the light member 186 is not illuminated, the user cannot detect that an LED is present in the module 22 , and thus an empty or "beveled" It provides a "dead-front" appearance. When the light member 186 is activated, the light illuminates along the arrow A1 and upwards along the arrow A2 and the opening 181 and the outer top member, as shown by the indication LT in FIG. 91 . 178) is directed. With the geometry and treatment of the light guide 187 and the top member, the light is reflected in a better manner, thus providing light that is uniformly distributed over the entire area of the light that is projected through the top member. Additional structures may also be added to reflect light in a more improved manner. For example, the light guide 187 may have a surface texture to improve light reflection. To achieve the desired change in light reflection, the sloping wall or other surface of the light guide 187 may be painted or a sticker applied thereon. It will be appreciated that the light member 186 may project multiple colors of light. Light member 186 provides indications for indicating various parameters including battery life of module 22 .

The configuration of port 14 and module 22 described herein provides a comfortable fit. Such a configuration provides a watertight configuration and moisture ingress resistance. This characteristic is achieved while maintaining an operative connection between the port 14 and the module 22 . The fingers 158 on the interface assembly also provide a robust connection with the extension 21 of the insert member 37 as the engagement position between the finger and the extension is maximized. The filler material 159 is selected to have the desired hardness to provide sufficient flexibility and corrosion resistance. In one exemplary embodiment, the filler material 159 may have a shore durometer of a Type A scale of 30 or less. Filler material 159 provides protection around the connection between extension 21 and interface assembly 156 . The housing and receiver/post connections of the insert member 37 further provide stress relief to the insert member 37 to minimize the chance that the insert member 37 may rupture during use. do.

91-94 disclose additional features associated with the ground plane extension associated with the module 22 . In particular, a further aspect relates to maximizing the surface area of a layer of a PCB of one or more electronic devices, such as module 22 . Certain aspects relate to increasing the surface area of a ground plane layer of a PCB. 91 shows a perspective top view of an exemplary PCB 1002, which PCB includes one or more components in electrical communication including, but not limited to, processors, capacitors, diodes, resistors, and/or combinations thereof. may include Although the PCB 1002 is shown as being planar across the horizontal axis (the "x" axis), one of ordinary skill in the art would recognize that the PCB 1002 (or a plurality of individual PCBs in operative communication) would be configured to form a non-planar structure. you will understand that you can PCB 1002 further includes a ground plane layer 1004 formed of a conductive material, such as copper, for example. As shown in FIG. 91 , a visible portion of the ground plane layer 1004 is disposed around the perimeter of the PCB 1002 , however, portions of the layer 1004 may be disposed and/or connected to other portions of the PCB 1002 . can

In certain embodiments, at least one component of PCB 1002 may be configured to be in operative communication with a portable power source, such as, for example, a battery (not shown in FIGS. 91-93 but shown in FIG. 94 ). can The PCB 1002 may be configured to be placed in a portable device having limited dimensions for a battery or other type of portable power source. Due to the aforementioned dimensional constraints of portable devices, batteries are often small and may therefore have a limited service time between charges and/or a limited discharge rate. According to one embodiment, the PCB 1002 may include the same space as the battery space 1006 . As shown in FIG. 91 , battery space 1006 includes regions along the x and z planes of PCB 1002 to allow for placement of power sources adjacent to PCB 1002 . The PCB 1002 may be fabricated with dimensions to create the battery space 1002 , or may be altered (eg, via snap regions and/or regions of alternating thickness) to form one or more battery spaces. It can be configured to be In this regard, although an exemplary space is a battery space, one of ordinary skill in the art should understand that this disclosure is not limited to merely such an area and/or space configured to receive or place a battery.

Although the battery space 1006 of the PCB 1002 is shown in a slot configuration flanked on three sides by portions of the PCB 1002 , those skilled in the art will appreciate the shape, size and/or the size of the PCB 1002 . It will be understood that the configuration is exemplary only and that other shapes are included within the scope of this disclosure. The exact shape and size of battery space 1006 may be determined by its intended use and is not limited by this disclosure. Accordingly, the only requirement of battery space 1006 is along a horizontal plane of PCB 1002 (eg, along the x-axis) to be able to place power sources along the same plane and adjacent to PCB 1002 . to include the area. 94 , which shows a side view of PCB 1002 , a battery, such as battery 1008 , may be disposed along a horizontal plane (x-axis) of PCB 1002 . Because the battery 1008 occupies an area within the battery space 1006 , the surface area of the PCB 1002 is minimized compared to a PCB that does not have the same space as the battery space 1008 , but instead is located at the same location. a larger area of the ground plane layer 1004 .

According to a particular embodiment, a ground plane extension (see, eg, 1010 ) may be electrically coupled to the ground plane layer 1004 of the PCB 1002 . 92 shows an exemplary ground plane extension 1010 according to one embodiment. Ground plane extension 1010 may be formed of any material that effectively increases the surface area of ground plane layer 1004 . In one embodiment, the ground plane extension may include copper and/or aluminum, but in further embodiments, any conductive material may be used for at least a portion of the ground plane extension 1010 . One or more connectors 1012 are provided to allow contact (and/or alignment) between extension 1010 and ground plane layer 1004 by conductive adhesive, solder, solder-through, welding, snapping, and combinations thereof. can be used As best shown in FIG. 92 , the extension 1010 may be disposed adjacent to one side (eg, top) of the battery 1008 , and substantially parallel to the PCB 1002 along the horizontal (x) axis. One and thus may include portions such as PCB 1002 and a planar top area (eg, 1014 ). For example, the extension 1010 may include a vertical ridge 1016 operatively connected to the PCB 1002 and extending therefrom to the top region 1016 . The top region 1016 may include one or more openings 1018 that may allow heat exchange from surrounding components, including the battery 1008 .

94 , an extension 1010 is shown adjacent a first side (eg, a top side) of a battery 1008 and in electronic connection with a PCB 1002 , and an antenna 1020 . is disposed adjacent to an opposite side (eg, a lower end) of the battery 1008 . 94 , ground plane extension 1010 and antenna 1020 are also configured parallel to PCB 1002 and to each other. Thus, in at least one embodiment, at least a portion of the battery is coplanar when the portable device is operatively connected to a three layer-first layer comprising a ground plane extension, such as extension 1010 , a PCB to the ground plane extension. a second layer comprising a battery disposed to be positioned along the , and a third layer comprising an antenna, such as antenna 1020 . In an exemplary embodiment, the layers are arranged vertically; Other arrangements are within the scope of the present disclosure. In this regard, unless otherwise stated, it is not required that each layer be in direct physical contact with the adjacent surface of the adjacent layer. For example, it is not required that the antenna 1020 be in direct physical contact with an adjacent surface of the battery 1008 .

6 shows a schematic diagram of an exemplary 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 invention. While the exemplary structure of FIG. 6 depicts a data transmission/reception system (TX-RX) 107 as integrated into an electronic module structure 22 , one of ordinary skill in the art would recognize that, in all examples of the present invention, separate components may be incorporated into footwear. It will be appreciated that it may be included as part of structure 100 or as another structure for data transmission/reception purposes and/or that data transmission/reception system 107 need not be contained entirely within one housing or one package. will be. Rather, if desired, the various components or elements of the data transmission/reception system 107 may be separated from each other in different housings or on different substrates in a variety of different ways without departing from the present invention, and It may be separately coupled with an article or other device of footwear 100 . Various examples of different potential mounting structures 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 and/or receiving data from one or more remote systems. In one embodiment, the transmit/receive element 107 is configured to communicate via the port 14 , for example by way of the contact or contactless interface described above. 6 , the module 22 includes an interface 23 configured for connection to a port 14 and/or a sensor 16 . In the module 22 shown in FIG. 6 , the interface 23 has complementary contact with the terminal 11 of the interface 20 of the port 14 for connection with the port 14 . In other embodiments, as described above, ports 14 and modules 22 may include different types of interfaces 20 , 23 , which may be contact or wireless. It will be appreciated that in some embodiments, module 22 may interface with port 14 and/or sensor 16 via TX-RX element 107 . Accordingly, in one embodiment, the module 22 may be external to the footwear 100 and the port 14 may include a wireless transmitter interface for communication with the module 22 . The electronic component 22 of this example further includes a processing system 202 (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 source 206 may be configured for inductive charging, for example, by including a coil or other inductive member. In this configuration, the module 22 may be charged by placing an article of footwear 100 on an induction pad or other induction charger, thus allowing the module 22 to be charged without removing it from the port 14 . let there be In other embodiments, the power source 206 may additionally or alternatively be configured for charging using energy harvesting techniques, through absorption of kinetic energy due to movement of the user, the power source 206 . It may include a device for energy harvesting, such as a charger to charge the battery.

Connection to one or more sensors may be achieved as shown in FIG. 6 , but by providing additional sensors (not shown), pedometer type speed and/or distance information, other speed and/or distance Data sensor information, temperature, altitude, barometric pressure, humidity, GPS data, acceleration output or data, heart rate, pulse rate, blood pressure, body temperature, EKG data, EEG data, angular orientation and data related to changes in angular orientation (e.g., gyro Sensing or providing data or information related to a wide variety of different types of parameters, such as physical or physiological data associated with a user or use of an article of footwear 100, including scope-based sensors, etc. , this data may be stored in memory 204 and/or used for transmission to some remote location or system, for example, by transmit/receive system 107 . Additional sensor(s), if present, may be used (eg, for pedometer type speed and/or distance information, for sensing direction changes while walking, sensing jump height, etc.) for) may also include an accelerometer. In one embodiment, module 22 may include an additional sensor 208 , such as an accelerometer, eg, by module 22 or external device 110 , data from sensor 16 may include an accelerometer. data from 208 may be integrated.

As an additional example, the various types of electronic modules, systems, and methods described above may be used to provide automatic shock damping control for articles of footwear. Such systems and methods are described, for example, in U.S. Patent Nos. 6,430,843; U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2003/0009913; and US Patent Application Publication No. 2004/0177531; incorporated herein by reference and constitute a part of it). 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 type information. , and/or systems may be used. Each of these patents is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Additional embodiments of sensors and sensor systems, as well as articles of footwear and window structures and members utilizing the same, are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety and are made in part by reference in their entirety, US Patent Application Publication Nos. 2010/0063778 and 2010/ 0063779.

The electronic module 22 may also include an activation system (not shown). The activation system, or a portion thereof, may be coupled with the module 22 or an article (or other device) of the footwear 100 , together with or separately from other portions 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.). A wide variety of different activation systems may be utilized without departing from the present invention, and a wide variety of such systems will be described in greater detail below in connection with the various accompanying drawings. In one example, sensor system 12 may be activated and/or deactivated by activating sensor 16 in a specific pattern, such as with continuous or alternating toe/heel taps. In another example, the sensor system 12 may include a button or a button, which may be disposed on the module 22 , on the shoe 100 , or on an external device in communication with the sensor system 12 , and at other locations. It can be activated by a switch. In any such embodiment, the sensor system 12 may include a "sleep" mode, which may deactivate the system 12 after a set period of inactivity. In alternative embodiments, the sensor system 12 may be operated as a low-power device that is not activated or deactivated.

Module 22 may be further configured to communicate with external device 110 , which may be an external computer or computer system, mobile device, gaming system, or other type of electronic device, as shown in FIG. 23 . The exemplary external device 110 shown in FIG. 23 includes a processor 302 , a memory 304 , a power supply 306 , a display 308 , a user input unit 310 , and a data transmission/reception system 108 . do. The transmit/receive system 108 may be connected to the transmit/receive system 107 of the module 22 via any type of known electronic communication, including the contact and contactless communication methods described above and elsewhere herein. ), and is configured to communicate with the module 22 . Modules 22 and/or ports 14 may or may not function to communicate information and further process such data, including electronic devices of a wide variety of different types and configurations, and also to other external devices. It will be appreciated that it may be configured to communicate with a plurality of external devices, including intermediate devices. Additionally, the transmit/receive system 107 of the module 22 may be configured for a plurality of different types of electronic communications. It will be appreciated that the shoe 100 may include a separate power source for operating the sensor 16 , eg, a battery, piezoelectric, solar power source, or the like, if desired. 3 - 22B , the sensor 16 receives power via a connection to the module 22 .

As described below, such sensor assemblies may be tailored for use with specific software for the electronic module 22 and/or external device 110 . A third party may provide such software, as a package, with a window insert having a custom sensor assembly. The module 22 and/or the entire sensor system 12 analyzes data obtained from the sensor 16, including algorithms stored in and/or executed by the module, external device 110, or other component. It may operate with one or more algorithms for

In operation, the sensor 16 collects data according to its function and design and transmits the data to the port 14 . Port 14 in turn enables electronic module 22 to interface with 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 the data can be accessed and/or downloaded by a plurality of users, into a variety of different applications, for a variety of different purposes. have. In one example, data is collected, stored, and transmitted in XML format. In one embodiment, by measuring the voltage drop at the measurement terminal 104b, which reflects the change in the resistance of the particular sensor 16 being switched, the module 22 is connected to the circuit 10 as shown in FIG. to detect a change in pressure of the sensor 16 . FIG. 27 shows one example of a pressure-resistance curve for sensor 16 , with dashed lines representing potential shifts in the curve due to factors such as bending of insert 37 . The module 22 has an activation resistance R, which is the detected resistance required by the module 22 to register a pressure on the sensor._A) can have The corresponding pressure to create such a resistance is called the activation pressure (P_A) is called The specific activation pressure P required for the module 22 to register the data_A) corresponding to the activation resistance (R_A) can be selected. In one embodiment, the activation pressure (P_A) can be about 0.15 bar, about 0.2 bar, or about 0.25 bar, and the corresponding activation resistance (R_A) may be about 100 kΩ. Additionally, in one embodiment, the highest sensitivity range may be 150 to 1500 mbar. In one embodiment, the sensor system 12 constructed as shown in FIGS. 3-22B is capable of detecting a pressure in the range of 0.1 to 7.0 bar (or about 0.1 to 7.0 atm), and in another embodiment, the sensor System 12 can detect pressures greater than this range with high sensitivity.

In other embodiments, the sensor system 12 may be configured to collect other types of data. In one embodiment (described above), the sensor(s) 16 may collect data related to the number, order, and/or frequency of compressions. For example, system 12 may control the number or frequency of steps, jumps, cuts, kicks, or other compressive forces generated while wearing footwear 100 , as well as other parameters such as contact time and flight time. Variables can be recorded. Both quantitative sensors and dual on/off types of sensors can collect this data. In another example, the system may record the sequence of compressive forces generated by the footwear, which may be used, for example, to determine foot adduction or abduction, weight transfer, foot striking pattern, or other such application. In another embodiment (also described above), the sensor(s) 16 may quantitatively measure compressive force on adjacent portions of the shoe 100 , and the data may consequently include quantitative compressive force and/or impact measurements. can The relative difference in forces on different parts of the shoe 100 may be used to determine the weight distribution and "center of pressure" of the shoe 100 . The weight distribution and/or center of pressure may be calculated independently for one or both shoes 100 , or together in both shoes, for example to find the center of pressure or the center of weight distribution for the entire body of a person. can be calculated. In a further embodiment, the sensor(s) 16 may monitor compression force, contact time, time of flight (eg, for jumping or running) or time between shocks, and/or rate of change of other time-dependent parameters. can be measured It will be appreciated that, in some embodiments, the sensor 16 may require a certain threshold force or impulse before registering the force/impact, as described above.

As noted above, the data is provided to the module 22 through the universal port 14 in a universally readable format, so that the number of applications, users, and programs that can use the data is virtually unlimited. Accordingly, 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, such data being It can be used in any way required by different applications. Module 22 may recognize whether the received data relates to a left or right shoe, for example, through the use of a unique identification chip 92 as described herein. The module 22 may process the data differently depending on the recognition of the LR shoe, and may also transmit the data to the external device 110 along with an identification as to whether the data is from the LR shoe. The external device 110 may likewise process or otherwise process the data differently based on the identification of the LIR shoe as well. In one example, the connection of the sensor 16 to the terminal 11 and interface 20 may differ between the left and right inserts 37 , as shown in FIG. 12 and described above. According to this arrangement, the data from the left insert 37 may be interpreted differently from the data from the right insert 37 . Module 22 and/or electronic device 110 may perform similar actions with respect to other identification information contained in unique identification chip 92 . In many applications, the data is further processed by module 22 and/or external device 110 prior to use. In a configuration where the external device 110 further processes data, the module 22 may transmit the data to the external device 110 . Such transmitted data may be transmitted in the same universally readable format, or may be transmitted in a different format, and module 22 may be configured to change the format of the data. Additionally, module 22 may be configured and/or programmed to collect, use, and/or process data from sensor 16 for one or more specific applications. In one embodiment, module 22 is configured to collect, use, and/or process data for use in a plurality of applications. Examples of such uses and applications are given below. As used herein, the term "application" refers generally to particular use and not necessarily to use in computer program applications, as the term is also used in the computer field. Nevertheless, a particular application may be implemented in whole or in part in a computer program application.

Also, in one embodiment, the module 22 may be removed from the footwear 100 and replaced with a second module 22 configured to operate differently from the first module 22 . For example, such replacement may include raising the foot contact member 133 , separating the first module 22 from the port 14 and removing the first module 22 from the housing 24 , followed by This is accomplished by inserting the second module 22 into the housing 24 , connecting the second module 22 to the port 14 , and finally placing the foot contact member 133 back in place. The second module 22 may be programmed and/or configured differently from 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 gaming applications, and the second module 22 may be configured for use in one or more athletic behavior monitoring applications. Additionally, the module 22 may be configured for use in different applications of the same type. For example, the first module 22 may be configured for use in one game or athletic behavior monitoring application, and the second module 22 may be configured for use in another gaming or athletic behavior monitoring application. can be configured. As another example, modules 22 may be configured for different uses within the same game or behavior monitoring application. In other embodiments, the first module 22 may be configured to collect one type of data and the second module 22 may be configured to collect another type of data. Quantitative force and/or pressure measurement, relative force and/or pressure measurement (ie, sensors 16 relative to each other), weight shift/transmission, impact sequence (eg relative to foot striking pattern), force and/or or rate of change of pressure, and the like, examples of such types of data are described herein. In further embodiments, the first module 22 may be configured to use or process data from the sensor 16 in a different manner than the second module 22 . For example, the module 22 may be configured to merely collect, store and/or communicate data, or the module 22 may further process the data in some way, eg, to organize the data, change the data format, the data It may be configured to perform an action calculation using In another embodiment, the modules 22 may be configured to communicate differently, such as having a different communication interface or configured to communicate with another external device 110 . Module 22 may also function differently in other aspects, including both structural and functional aspects, for example using different power sources or using additional or different hardware components, for example additional as described above. It may include a sensor (eg, GPS, accelerometer, etc.).

One use considered for data collected by system 12 is that it is important in many athletic activities, such as golf swing, baseball/softball swing, hockey swing (ice hockey or field hockey), tennis swing, ball throwing/pitching, and the like. , its use in the measurement of weight transfer. The pressure data collected by system 12 can provide valuable feedback regarding balance and stability for use in improving finesse in any applicable field of exercise. It will be appreciated that based on the intended use of the data collected thereby, a rather expensive and complex sensor system 12 may be designed.

The data collected by the system 12 may be used in the measurement of a variety of other motor behavior characteristics. Such data may be used to measure the degree and/or speed of foot adduction/abduction, foot striking patterns, balance, and other such parameters, which may be used to improve finesse in running/jogging or other athletic activities. can With respect to adduction/abduction, analysis of the data can also be used as a predictor of adduction/abduction. Speed and distance monitoring may be implemented, which may include pedometer-based measurements, such as contact measurements or loft time measurements. Jump height can also be measured, for example by using contact or lifted time measurements. Lateral cutting forces may be measured, including differential forces applied to different portions of shoe 100 during cutting. Sensor 16 may also be arranged to measure shear forces, such as a foot sliding laterally within shoe 100 . As an example, an additional sensor may be incorporated into the side of the upper 120 of the shoe 100 to sense a force on the side.

Data or measurements derived therefrom may be useful for athletic training purposes, including improvements in speed, power, agility, homeostasis, finesse, and the like. Port 14 , module 22 , and/or external device 110 may be configured to provide active, 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 deliver results in real time. In another example, one or more vibrating elements may be included within the shoe 100 , such as the features disclosed in US Pat. No. 6,978,684, which is incorporated herein by reference and made a part hereof, to aid in movement control of the shoe. It is possible to provide feedback to the user by vibrating the part. Additionally, the data may be used to compare movements in an exercise, for example, to compare a movement to a user's past movement to show homeostasis, improvement or lack thereof, or to compare the user's movement to another person, e.g. It can be compared to the same movement of a professional golfer's swing. The system 12 can also be used to record body-mechanical data about an athlete's "characteristic" movement during exercise. Such data may be provided to others for use in replicating or mimicking the movement, for example, in a gaming application that superimposes the movement with a similar movement of the user, or in a shadow application.

The system 12 may also be configured for "activity all day" tracking, in order to record various activities performed by the user over the course of the day. System 12 may include special algorithms for this purpose in, for example, module 22 , external device 110 , and/or sensor 16 .

System 12 may also be used for control applications in addition to data collection and processing applications. In other words, based on the movement of the user detected by the sensor 16 , the system 12 may be in contact with footwear or physical contact for use in controlling an external device 110 , such as a computer, television, video game, or the like. It can be incorporated into other articles. In effect, footwear incorporating a sensor 16 and a lead 18 extending to the universal port 14 allows such footwear to act as an input system, and the electronic module 22 accepts input from the sensor 16 . may be configured, programmed, and adapted to do so, and may use such input data in any desired manner, for example as control input for a remote system. For example, a sensor-controlled shoe, similar to a mouse, may be used as a control or input device for a computer or for a program executed by a computer, and may include specific foot movements, gestures, etc. (eg, foot tapping). , double foot tapping, heel tapping, double heel tapping, side-to-side foot movement, foot-point, foot-flex, etc.) , lowering, raising, canceling, copying, cutting, pasting, saving, closing, etc.) can be controlled. For this purpose software may be provided for assigning gestures of the foot to different computer function controls. It is contemplated that the motion system may be configured to receive and recognize control input from the sensor system 12 . A television or other external electronic device may be controlled in this manner. Footwear 100 including system 12 may also be used in gaming applications and game programs, similar to Nintendo's Wii controller, specific movements may be assigned to specific functions, and/or virtualization of user movements. can be used to generate a representation of on the display screen. As an example, center of pressure data and other weight distribution data may be used in gaming applications, which may include virtual representations of balance, weight transitions, and other behavioral activities. System 12 may be used as an exclusive controller for a game or other computer system or as a supplemental controller. An example of a sensor system for an article of footwear as a control for an external device and an example of a configuration and method of using a gesture of the foot for such control is shown and described in U.S. Provisional Application No. 611138,048, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Additional embodiments using various gestures to control one or more systems are described in greater detail below and are shown in FIGS.

Additionally, system 12 may be configured to communicate directly with external device 110 and/or with a controller for the external device. As described above, FIG. 6 shows an embodiment for communication between the electronic module 22 and an external device. 23 , system 12 may be configured to communicate with external gaming device 110A. The external gaming device 110A includes components similar to the exemplary external device 110 shown in FIG. 6 . The external gaming device 110A also includes at least one game medium 307 (eg, a cartridge, CD, DVD, Blu-Ray, or other storage device) containing game programs, and a transmit/receive element 108 . at least one remote controller 305 configured to communicate by a wired and/or wireless connection via In the illustrated embodiment, the controller 305 complements the user input 310, however, 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 . and an accessory device 303 . In one embodiment, accessory device 303 may be configured to connect to one or more additional controllers and/or external devices of the same and/or different type as controller 305 and external device 110 . Where system 12 includes other types of sensors described above (eg, accelerometers), it will be appreciated that such additional sensors may also be incorporated into the control of games or other programs on external device 110 . There will be.

An external device 110 , such as a computer/gaming system, may have other types of software for interacting with the system 12 . For example, the gaming program may be configured to change characteristics of a character in the game based on the user's real-time activity, which may encourage practice or more activity by the user. In another example, the program may be configured to display an avatar of the user acting in relation to or in proportion to user activity collected by the shoe's sensing system. In such a configuration, when the user is active, the avatar may appear excited, full of energy, etc., when the user is inactive, the avatar may appear sleepy, drowsy, and the like. The sensor system 12 may also be configured to more sophisticated sensing to record data describing the "characteristic movement" of the athlete, which is then used for various purposes, such as in a gaming system or modeling system. can be

An article of footwear 100 comprising a sensor system 12 as described herein may have its own sensor, such as the pair of shoes 100 , 100 shown in FIGS. 24-26 , alone or in FIGS. Can be used in combination with an article of second footwear 100' having system 12'. The sensor system 12' of the second shoe 100' generally includes one or more sensors 16' coupled to a port 14' in communication with the electronic module 22' by means of a sensor lead 18'. do. The second sensor system 12 of the second shoe 100 shown in FIGS. 24 to 26 has the same configuration as the sensor system 12 of the first shoe 100 . However, in other embodiments, shoes 100, 100' may have sensor systems 12, 12' having different configurations. Both shoes 100 , 100 are configured to communicate with an external device 110 , and in the illustrated embodiment, each of the shoes 100 , 100 has an electronic module configured to communicate with the external device 110 ( 22, 22'). In other embodiments, both shoes 100 , 100 may have ports 14 , 14 configured to communicate with the same electronic module 22 . In such an embodiment, at least one shoe 100 , 100 may be configured to wirelessly communicate with the module 22 . 24 to 26 show various modes for communication between modules 22 and 22'.

24 shows a "mesh" communication mode, wherein modules 22 , 22 are configured to communicate with each other, and also configured to communicate independently with external device 110 . 25 shows a "daisy chain" communication mode, in which one module 22 communicates with an external device 110 via another module 22 . In other words, the second module 22' is configured to communicate a signal (which may include data) to the first module 22, and the first module 22 sends the signal to both modules 22, 22'. is configured to communicate with 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 which communicates the signal to the second module 22'. In one embodiment, modules 22 , 22 may also communicate with each other for purposes other than transmitting signals to or from external device 110 . 26 shows an "independent" communication mode, wherein each module 22, 22' is configured for independent communication with an external device 110, and the modules 22, 22' are configured to communicate with each other. doesn't happen In other embodiments, the sensor systems 12 , 12 may be configured to communicate with each other and/or with the external device 110 in other manners.

Embodiments may include provisions for controlling various systems, devices, and other components using one or more gestures, movements, movements, actions, or other behaviors that may be detected using one or more sensors. have. Exemplary gestures or movements include, but are not limited to, heel clicks, toe tapping, heel tapping, stomping, tapping or otherwise contacting the heel of a corresponding shoe with the toe of one shoe, the sole of one shoe into another shoe. tapping or otherwise contacting the forefoot of the foot, tapping the lateral side edge or medial side edge of the spear against the ground, jumping, orienting the toe of the shoe in a predetermined direction, side-to-side foot movement, foot flexion As well as other possible types of gestures or movements. It will be appreciated that some embodiments that use tapping (eg, tapping toe or heel) allow the use of a single tap, double tap, triple tap, or any other number of taps as one gesture to provide a command. There will be. Additionally, other exemplary gestures may include any combination of the gestures and movements listed above. For example, tapping of the toe followed by tapping of the heel may be considered a gesture in one embodiment.

Any such gesture, movement or movement may be used as input to a 'gesture control system' that controls one or more systems, devices or other components based on one or more detected gestures or movements. For example, the embodiment of FIGS. 95-100 provides a gesture-based control used to actuate a tensioning device within an article of footwear upon commands from the user/wearer provided in the form of foot-based gestures or movement. shows the system.

Embodiments may also include provision for determining whether a gesture or movement is or is not intended for control of one or more systems or devices. In some embodiments, the gesture control system may be configured in a mode in which the system may actively 'listen for' or detect one or more gesture-based user commands. Such a mode may be referred to as an 'enabled mode'. When the system is in such a mode, any detected gesture (ie, toe tapping) may be interpreted by the system as a command or command from the user. However, when the system is not in such a mode, any detection of gestures may be ignored by the system, since it is assumed that the user did not intentionally generate the command or command. When not in enabled mode, the system may be in 'disabled mode'. A command standby mode or an armed mode may be activated by detection of a predetermined gesture (referred to as an 'enable gesture' or 'prompting gesture'), which gesture may be activated in the disabled mode. It may be the only gesture that is not ignored by the system. In some cases, the disabled mode may be referred to as a first mode, while the enabled mode may be referred to as a second mode, where initiation of the command may be referred to as a first mode (using a predetermined gesture). This is because it requires sequentially proceeding from mode to second mode first, followed by initiating a command with a control gesture.

95 is a schematic diagram of various possible sequences of gestures or movements for providing different commands or commands to a gesture control system, according to an embodiment. More specifically, FIG. 95 depicts various moments or configurations of a first article of footwear 1102 and a second article of footwear 1104 within a footwear system. Some gestures may include both articles of footwear, while other gestures may include only one article (and in some cases include contact between one article and the ground).

Each sequence is shown to begin with a triggering or enabling gesture that switches the system from the disabled mode to the enabled mode (i.e., the initial gesture acts to 'prepare' or 'trigger' the system). do). For clarity, this embodiment of FIG. 95 depicts an enabling gesture in the form of a heel click gesture 1110 , starting from a default stance 1112 (shown by moment 1114 ). ) through swinging the heels away first and then clicking the heels together (as indicated by moment 1116 ). This initial heel clicking gesture serves to prepare the gesture control system, so that such system can receive a wider variety of gestures as input.

In this exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 95 , the heel click gesture 1110 acts as a percussion gesture to prepare the system. Any other gestures or movements detected while the system is not enabled will be ignored in this particular embodiment. However, in other embodiments, the triggering gesture or enabling gesture may be any other gesture, including the various gestures previously listed as well as any combination of such gestures.

Referring to the lower portion of FIG. 95 , a plurality of different subsequent gestures that may be performed after heel click gesture 1110 are shown. In some cases, after performing the heel click gesture 1110 , before the next gesture is performed, the first article of footwear 1102 and the second article of footwear 1104 may be in different default stances 1118 .

As one exemplary gesture, the toe tapping gesture 1120 includes raising an article (as indicated by moment 1130 ) and tapping the toe against the ground (as indicated by moment 1132 ). include As another example gesture, a heel tapping gesture 1122 involves raising the heel of the article (as indicated by moment 1134 ) and tapping the heel against the ground (as indicated by moment 1136 ). include that As another exemplary gesture, a first two-foot gesture 1124 includes raising one item over another (as indicated by moment 1138 ) and (as indicated by moment 1140 ). This includes bringing the forefoot of a planted article into contact with the spear of another article. As another exemplary gesture, a second two-foot gesture 1126 includes moving one item behind another (as indicated by moment 1142 ) and (as indicated by moment 1144 ). ) includes touching the heel of an item placed on the ground and the toe of another item. Although not shown, in other embodiments, the command or control gesture may be another heel click. In other words, a first heel click may prepare the system (which may act as a triggered gesture), while a second heel click, which is effected while the system is already enabled, completely loosens the tensioning within the system. It can be interpreted as a command gesture, such as a command.

96 shows a schematic diagram of an embodiment of an article of footwear 1200 . The article 1200 may include an upper 1202 and a window structure 1204 . The article of footwear 1200 may also include a tensioning system 1220 and a sensor system 1230 .

The tensioning system may include a tensioning member, a drawstring guide, a tensioning assembly, a housing unit, a motor, a gear, a spool or reel, and/or a power source. Such components may assist in securing the wearer's foot, adjusting tension, and providing a custom fit to the wearer's foot. These components can secure the article to the wearer's foot, adjust tension, and provide a custom fit.

In some embodiments, the tensioning system may include a tensioning member. The term "tensioning member" as used throughout this detailed description and in the claims refers to any component having a generally elongate shape and high tensile strength. In some cases, the tensioning member may also have a generally low elasticity. Examples of different tensioning members include, but are not limited to: straps, cables, straps, and cords. In some cases, tensioning members may be used to fasten and/or tighten articles, including articles of clothing and/or footwear. In other cases, the tensioning member may be used to apply a tension at a predetermined location to actuate some component or system.

An embodiment of a tensioning system 1220 is disclosed in US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0068838 to Beers et al., U.S. Application Serial No. 14/014,491, now filed Aug. 20, 2013 and entitled "Motor Operated Tensioning System. to Beers, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0070042, now filed on August 20, 2013 and entitled "Motor Operated Tensioning System With Sensor"; and U.S. Application Serial No. 14/014,555 to Beers; , U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0082963, any disclosed in one or more of U.S. Application Serial No. 14/032,524, now filed September 20, 2013 and entitled "Footwear with Removable Motor Operated Adjustment System" may include any suitable tensioning system, including the integration of systems, components, features, elements, methods, and/or processes of collectively referred to as "tightening case").

Referring to FIG. 96 , the tensioning system 1220 may include a tensioning device 1222 and a tensioning member 1224 . Tensioning device 1222 may include one or more providers for automatically increasing or decreasing the tension of a string, or other tensioning member, within tensioning system 1220 . As described in more detail below, such providers may include a motor, a spool for winding the string, and a power provider (eg, a battery).

97 includes an enlarged schematic view of some components of tensioning device 1222 . The tensioning device 1222 may include a reel member 1300 (or spool), a motor 1302 , and a power source 1304 . Accordingly, the power source 1304 may supply power to the motor 1302 to rotate the reel member 1300 . In one embodiment, motor 1302 and reel member 1300 may be further coupled using gear assembly 1306 .

In some embodiments, motor 1302 may include an electric motor. However, in other embodiments, the motor 1302 may include any type of non-electric motor known in the art. Examples of different motors that may be used include, but are not limited to, DC motors (such as permanent-magnet motors, brushed DC motors, brushless DC motors, switched reluctance motors, etc.), motors with sliding rotors, synchronous electric motors, etc. , asynchronous electric motors, induction motors, etc.) AC motors, general purpose motors, stepper motors, piezoelectric motors, as well as any other type of motor known in the art.

Motor 1302 may further include a crankshaft that may be used to drive one or more components of the tensioning system. For example, a crankshaft of motor 1302 can drive gear assembly 1306 that is also coupled to reel member 1300 . In this arrangement, the reel member 1300 may be placed in communication with the motor 1302 to rotate along opposite directions about the central axis.

The power source 1304 may include a battery and/or a control unit (not shown) configured to power and control the motor 1302 . Power source 1304 may be any suitable battery of one or more types of battery technologies that may be used to power motor 1302 and tensioning system 1220 . One possible battery technology that may be used is a lithium polymer battery. The battery (or batteries) may be a rechargeable or replaceable unit packaged in a flat shape, a cylindrical shape, or a coin shape. Also, a battery may be a single cell or cells in series or parallel. Other suitable batteries and/or power sources may be used for power source 1304 .

Tensioning device 1222 may be disposed within window structure 1204 . In some embodiments, window structure 1204 may include a cavity or depression to receive tensioning device 1222 . In other embodiments, tensioning device 1222 may be externally secured to upper 1202 using, for example, a harness or other attachment provider to other areas of article 1200 . can be fixed within.

At least a portion of the tensioning member 1224 may be wound onto the reel member 1300 , as shown in FIG. 97 . Tensioning member 1224 may also enter or exit tensioning device 1222 through one or more openings in a housing of tensioning device 1222 . Upon exiting the tensioning device 1222 , the tensioning member 1224 may be guided through the upper 1202 and across one or more areas of the upper 1202 . 96 , tensioning member 1224 is guided back and forth along instep or fastening region 1250 of upper 1202 such that tensioning member 1224 is wound onto reel member 1300 . When fastening area 1250 is tightened around the foot.

96 and 97 , any system configured to provide a control command to tensioning device 1222 (or directly to motor 1302 in tensioning device 1222 ) is a tensioning device 1222 . It will be appreciated that tensioning of the article 1200 can be controlled by winding the member 1224 around or unwinding the reel member 1300 .

The sensor system 1230 may be configured as a set of one or more sensors, and as one or more control units or other peripheral components that require the use of one or more sensors (eg, wires, power sources, etc.). In one embodiment, sensor system 1230 includes window sensor system 1232 , including a set of sensors disposed within window structure 1204 . In one embodiment, window sensor system 1232 may be similar to sensor system 12 described above and shown in FIG. 1 . The sensor system 1230 may also include one or more sensors associated with the upper 1202 . These may include a heel sensor 1236 in the heel region 1208 of the upper 1202 and a forefoot sensor 1238 on top of the forefoot region 1209 of the upper 1202 . Although special configurations of the window sensor and upper sensor are shown, it is understood that in other embodiments, any number of sensors may be located within the area of the window structure 1204 and/or within any area of the upper 1202 . There will be. Exemplary sensors that may be used in sensor system 1230 include, but are not limited to, contact sensors, angular velocity sensors (ie, gyro sensors), and other types of sensors.

By placing two or more sensors at different locations on the article 1200, the gesture control system can detect various foot-based gestures or movements, including, for example, the various gestures shown in FIG. 95 and described above. . For example, using heel sensor 1236 , the gesture control system can detect when heel region 1208 is kicked or tapped by the toe of the corresponding article and/or when a heel click is effected with the corresponding article. can be detected. Similarly, using the forefoot sensor 1238, the gesture control system can detect when the forefoot region 1209 is in contact with a window or other portion of the corresponding article. Still additionally, several sensors of window sensor system 1232 may be used to detect toe-tapping, heel-tapping, or other gestures when the foot applies pressure to one or more of these sensors.

For illustrative purposes, FIG. 96 also shows a standalone control unit 1260, which in some embodiments may be considered to house the logic of a gesture control system. In such an embodiment, the control unit 1260 may communicate (wired or wireless) with the sensor system 1230 and with the tensioning device 1222 . However, it will be appreciated that in other embodiments, the logic of the gesture control system may be incorporated into any sensor system component and/or tensioning system/tensioning device component.

95-100, including a control unit 1260 and/or a separate on-board control unit associated with tensioning device 1222, the system of the present embodiment shown in Figs. Addressing the Tensioning Control Logic Disclosed in U.S. Publication No. 14/955,705, U.S. Publication No. ______, now filed December 1, 2015, entitled "Automated Tensioning System for Articles of Footwear" Any system, sensor, component, method, and/or process for

98 is a schematic diagram of a process that may be performed by any component, device, or system configured to control a tensioning device in response to any input corresponding to a gesture or movement of an article. For clarity, in the embodiment described herein with respect to FIG. 98 , it is assumed that the process is performed by a gesture control system. However, in other embodiments, one or more steps may be performed by any component, system, and/or device of an article of footwear. In some cases, some steps may be performed by a remote device or system in wireless communication with the system on the article.

At step 1400 , the gesture control system may detect an enabling gesture (or a triggered gesture). This may be accomplished using one or more sensors, including contact sensors, force sensors and angular velocity sensors. Next, at step 1402 , while the system is enabled, the system may detect a control gesture. The gesture control system may then control the tensioning device according to the control gesture detected in step 1404 .

99 is a schematic diagram of a more specific process that may be implemented by a gesture control system. At step 1500 , the gesture control system receives information from one or more sensors. As noted above, such sensors may be any type of sensor associated with the article, including contact sensors and/or angular velocity sensors. Also, the sensor may be placed in a variety of different locations on the article, as described above. At step 1502, the gesture control system determines whether an 'enable gesture' has been detected. An enabling gesture is a predetermined gesture that the system recognizes as a first gesture in a sequence of two gestures for providing a tension command. An exemplary enabling gesture may be a heel click, although in other embodiments, the enabling gesture may be any predetermined gesture or movement. It will be appreciated that the gesture control system receives information generated by one or more sensors and analyzes this information to determine whether an enabling gesture has occurred. This measured or sensed information may then be compared to a known set of predetermined information that should be generated by one or more sensors during an enabling gesture.

If an enabling gesture is not detected, the system returns to step 1500 and continues to receive information from one or more sensors. If an enabling gesture is detected, the system proceeds to step 1504, where the system enters an enabled mode, and then proceeds to step 1506, where the actual (also referred to as command gesture) It continues to receive any new information from one or more sensors that may correspond to a control gesture.

In one embodiment, the system may include a timeout mechanism such that the gesture control system does not continue to stay in the enabled mode. For example, upon entering the enabled mode during step 1504 , if the second gesture is not detected within a predetermined time interval, the system may automatically exit the enabled mode (ie, enable able to exit enabled mode). Such a time interval may be set to any value. In one exemplary embodiment, the system may shut down after 5 to 10 seconds. Thus, the system, through step 1508, determines whether a shutdown has occurred and therefore back to step 1500 (ie, the system has been reset). Otherwise, the system proceeds to step 1510 .

At step 1510, the system may check to see if any new sensor information (received at step 1506) corresponds to a known control gesture (or control movement). If not, the system continues to receive new information from the sensor at step 1506 (until an end occurs at some point in step 1508). If the system detects that a control gesture was performed while the system was enabled, the system proceeds to step 1512 .

At step 1512, the system retrieves an action or control command corresponding to the detected control gesture. In other words, the system checks to ascertain which command should be sent to the tensioning device based on the information received from the sensor. At step 1514, the system uses the retrieved control command to control the tensioning device. In some cases, the control command for the tensioning device may be referred to as a 'tensioning command'.

Although the process of FIG. 99 depicts an automatic termination process occurring after a predetermined time, in other embodiments, it may include manual control to exit the enabled mode. In some cases, another predetermined gesture (different from the enabling gesture) may be used to manually exit the enabled mode, thereby allowing the user to reset the system without waiting for automatic shutdown.

100 is a schematic diagram of a table showing correspondences between system commands and given gestures (or movements) that may be detected by the system. Here, a set of exemplary gestures is listed in column 1602 , while the corresponding instruction is given in column 1604 . In the example of FIG. 100 , first row 1610 shows that a 'tap toe' gesture can generate a 'tap toe' command. The full tighten command may be a command used to apply a pre-set maximum amount of tension in the system. Also, the second row 1612 shows that a 'tap heel' gesture can generate a 'relax completely' command. The full loosen command may be a command used to completely release tension in the system so that the foot can be easily withdrawn from the article. Also additionally, row 3 1614 shows that a 'forefoot touching other shoe' gesture can generate an incremental loosening command, while a fourth row 1616 shows a 'heel touching forefoot of another shoe' ' Shows that gestures can generate 'incremental tightening' commands. Herein, 'incremental tightening' and 'incremental loosening' refer to increasing or decreasing the tightening in a system in constant increments.

That the embodiments are not intended to be limiting, and in other instances, any gesture control system implemented with an article of footwear, between articles of footwear, between a hand and an article of footwear, and/or with only the hand or other extremes. It will be appreciated that any kind of gesture may be used as the command input, including the gesture of . It will be contemplated that some embodiments may utilize sensors capable of detecting some kind of movement of legs, arms and even hands, not just feet. Such sensors may include visual sensors (such as cameras), infrared sensors, or other types of sensors.

In some embodiments, a set of gestures and associated instructions may be pre-programmed during manufacture. However, in one embodiment, the user may add a new gesture/command pairing and/or change an existing pairing (eg, toe tapping 'full loosen' instead of 'full tighten' of the tensioning system) You can change the setting to command ). In at least some embodiments, a user may use a computing device, including a mobile computing device, such as a smartphone or tablet, to change gesture/command settings. In some cases, this may be done through an application running on the mobile device. The mobile device may then communicate with one or more systems within the article using Bluetooth, a wireless network, or other wireless communication.

As mentioned above, 'gesture detection' or other movement as used herein refers to a stream of input data from one or more sensors (a first set of information), a known gesture (toe tapping, heel tapping, first toe-to-second heel tapping, etc.) with predetermined data that was previously measured while performing. The type of data may vary depending on the type of sensor used. As an example, during a heel click, a system that utilizes a contact or force sensor in the heel of an upper or sole may identify a force at the heel within a particular range and of a particular duration. In another example where an angular velocity sensor or gyro is used, a particular stream of angular velocity values (or values within some threshold range) that indicate that the foot swings in such a way that the same heel click gesture coincides with clicking of one heel and the other. may be known to produce Also, this embodiment is U.S. Publication No. _____ to Beers, which is currently filed on May 28, 2015 and is entitled "A Lockout Feature for a Control Device, Any method of identifying an activity type or activity level may be used, such as disclosed in US Application Serial No. 14/723,832, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art from the present disclosure, various aspects described herein may be implemented as a method, data processing system, or computer program product. Accordingly, such aspects may take the form of an entirely hardware embodiment, an entirely software embodiment, or an embodiment combining software and hardware aspects. Further, such aspects may take the form of a computer program product stored by one or more tangible computer-readable storage media or a storage device having computer-readable program code or instructions embodied on or in such storage media. Any suitable type of computer-readable storage medium may be used, including hard disks, CD-ROMs, optical storage devices, magnetic storage devices, and/or any combination thereof. In addition, various intangible signals representing data or events as described herein travel through signal-transmitting media such as metal wires, optical fibers, and/or through wireless transmission media (eg, air and/or space). It can be transmitted between a source and a destination in the form of electromagnetic waves.

As noted above, aspects of the invention may be described in the general context of computer-executable instructions, such as program modules, being executed by a computer and/or its processor. Generally, program modules include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, etc. that perform particular tasks or implement particular abstract data types. Such program modules may be included in a tangible, non-transitory computer-readable medium as described above. Aspects of the invention may also be practiced in distributed computing environments where tasks are performed by remote processing devices that are linked through a communications network. A program module may include memory, such as memory 204 of module 22 or memory 304 of external device 110, or both local and remote computer storage media including memory storage devices. It may be located in an external medium, such as 307 . It will be appreciated that the module 22 , the external device 110 , and/or the external medium may include complementary program modules for use together, for example, in a particular application. Also, a single processor 202, 302 and a single memory 204, 304 are shown and described within the module 22 and external device 110 for the sake of brevity, and that the processors 202, 302 and memory 204 are , 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 used in a variety of different applications and configurations, including general athletic behavior monitoring, such as fitness training or sport-specific activities such as baseball. It will be appreciated that additional sensors may be placed in other locations on the footwear. Sensors in the sensor system may also be configured to sense certain lateral movements and kinematic cutting movements. As described herein, data collected by a sensor system may be processed by an associated algorithm within an electronic module, mobile device, or remote location. It is contemplated that such data processing may be used to advise a user regarding wear, such that the user may be advised when a new pair of shoes is needed. Such data may also be processed and used to advise a user on designing a particular type of shoe that may be beneficial to a particular user. Finally, the data can be processed to aid in the custom design of footwear. Although the sensor system is shown in footwear, such a system may be used in other types of apparel.

Various embodiments of the sensor systems described herein, as well as articles of footwear, foot contact members, inserts, and other structures incorporating such sensor systems, provide advantages and advantages over existing art. For example, many of the sensor embodiments described herein provide a relatively low cost and long lasting option for a sensor system, such that the sensor system can be integrated into an article of footwear with little additional cost and good reliability. . As a result, footwear can be manufactured with an integrated sensor system, regardless of whether a customer ultimately wishes to use the sensor system, without significantly impacting price. Additionally, a window insert with a custom sensor system can be inexpensively manufactured and distributed with software designed to utilize the sensor system without significantly affecting the cost of the software. As another example, sensor systems are broad for a wide variety of applications, including gaming, fitness, athletic training and enhancement, practical control for computers and other devices, and many others described herein and recognizable to those skilled in the art. It provides a range of functions. In one embodiment, a third party software developer may develop software configured to operate using input from a sensor system, including games and other programs. The ability of a sensor system to present data in a universally readable format greatly expands the range of third-party software and other applications in which the sensor system can be used. Additionally, in one embodiment, the sensor system may generate signals and data that allow accurate detection of the applied force, which provides greater usability and versatility. As a further example, various window inserts that house the sensor system including liners, insoles, and other elements allow for interchangeability and customization of the sensor system for different applications. Other advantages will be recognized by those skilled in the art.

Several alternative embodiments and examples have been described and shown herein. Those skilled in the art will understand the features of individual embodiments, and possible combinations and variations of components. Those skilled in the art will also appreciate that any embodiment may be provided in any combination with other embodiments disclosed herein. It will be understood that the present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or essential characteristics of the present invention. Accordingly, the present examples and examples are to be regarded in all respects as illustrative and non-limiting, and the invention is not limited to the details given herein. As used herein, terms such as "first", "second", "top", "bottom", etc. are for descriptive purposes only and are not intended to limit the embodiments in any way. Additionally, the term "plurality," as used herein, denotes more than one to an infinite number, separately or cooperatively, as needed. Also, as used herein, "providing" an article or device broadly refers to making the article available for use or making the article accessible for a further action intended to be performed on the article, and It does not imply that the Provider manufactures, produces or supplies the Goods or that the Provider of the Goods owns or controls the Goods. Thus, although specific embodiments have been shown and described, numerous modifications can be envisioned without departing significantly from the spirit of the invention, and the scope of protection is limited only by the scope of the appended claims.

Yes

In Example 1, the method includes receiving a first set of information from a first sensor of an article of footwear, identifying a triggered gesture based on the first set of information, and entering an enabled mode based on the triggered gesture. , while in the enabled mode, receiving a second set of information from at least one sensor in the first article of footwear, while in the enabled mode, identifying a control gesture based on the second set of information. , determining a tensioning command corresponding to the control gesture, and controlling the tensioning device of the article of footwear according to the tensioning command.

In Example 2, the method of Example 1 optionally further comprises that the at least one sensor is a first sensor.

In Example 3, the method of any one or more of Examples 1 and 2, optionally further comprising the at least one sensor being a second sensor different from the first sensor.

In Example 4, the method of any one or more of Examples 1-3, optionally further comprising wherein the percussion gesture further comprises a heel of the article of footwear clicking with a heel of the second article of footwear.

In Example 5, the method of any one or more of Examples 1-4, optionally further comprising the command to tension is to fully tighten the article of footwear.

In Example 6, the method of any one or more of Examples 1-5, optionally further comprising wherein the tensioning instruction is an instruction for incremental tightening of the first article of footwear.

In Example 7, the method of any one or more of Examples 1-6, optionally further comprising the command to tension is an instruction for incremental tightening of the first article of footwear.

In Example 8, the method of any one or more of Examples 1-7, optionally further comprising the command to tension the command for complete loosening of the first article of footwear.

In Example 9, the method of any one or more of Examples 1-8, optionally further comprising wherein the tensioning instruction is an instruction for incremental loosening of the first article of footwear.

In Example 10, the method of any one or more of Examples 1-9, optionally further comprising wherein the control gesture is when a toe of the article of footwear is tapped.

In Example 11, the method of any one or more of Examples 1-10, optionally further comprising wherein the control gesture is when a heel of the article of footwear is tapped.

In Example 12, the method of any one or more of Examples 1-11, optionally further comprising wherein the control gesture is when the forefoot of the article of footwear is in contact with the window structure of the second article of footwear.

In Example 13, the method of any one or more of Examples 1-12, optionally further comprising wherein the control gesture is when the heel of the first article of footwear is in contact with the toe of the second article of footwear.

In Example 14, the method of any one or more of Examples 1-13, optionally further comprising wherein the control gesture is clicking a heel of the article of footwear and a heel of the second article of footwear.

16. In claim 15, the article of footwear is a tensioning device comprising an upper, a window structure, a reel member, and a motor, the tensioning device disposed within at least one of the upper and the window structure, the tensioning member being wound around or from the reel member a tensioning device, a first sensor and a second sensor, wherein a portion of the tensioning member is coupled to the reel member for disengagement, and the information from the first sensor corresponds to a percussion gesture to receive information from the first sensor and a control unit, configured to control the tensioning device according to the information corresponding to the control gesture, received from the second sensor while in the enabled mode, to enter the enabled mode.

In Example 16, the article of footwear of Example 15 optionally further comprising the first sensor being a contact sensor.

In Example 17, the article of footwear of any one or more of Examples 15 and 16, optionally further comprising the second sensor is an angular velocity sensor.

In Example 18, the article of footwear of any one or more of Examples 15-17, optionally further comprising: the first sensor disposed within a heel of the article of footwear.

In Example 19, the article of footwear of any one or more of Examples 15-18 optionally further comprising a second sensor disposed within the forefoot of the article of footwear.

In Example 20, the article of footwear of any one or more of Examples 15-19, optionally further comprising wherein the control gesture is instructions to engage the motor to rotate the reel to full tightening of the tensioning member.

In Example 21, the article of footwear of any one or more of Examples 15-20, optionally further comprising wherein the control gesture is instructions to engage the motor to incrementally rotate the reel to tighten the tensioning member. do.

In Example 22, the article of footwear of any one or more of Examples 15-21, optionally further comprising wherein the control gesture is instructions to engage the motor to rotate the reel until complete loosening of the tensioning member.

In Example 23, the article of footwear of any one or more of Examples 15-22, optionally further comprising wherein the control gesture is instructions to engage the motor to incrementally rotate the reel to loosen the tensioning member. do.

In Example 24, the article of footwear of any one or more of Examples 15-23, optionally further comprising wherein the control gesture is when a toe of the article of footwear is tapped.

In Example 25, the article of footwear of any one or more of Examples 15-24, optionally further comprising wherein the control gesture is when a heel of the article of footwear is tapped.

In Example 26, the article of footwear of any one or more of Examples 15-25, optionally further comprising wherein the control gesture is when the forefoot of the article of footwear is in contact with the window structure of the second article of footwear.

In Example 27, the article of footwear of any one or more of Examples 15-26, optionally further comprising wherein the control gesture is when a heel of the first article of footwear contacts a toe of the second article of footwear.

In Example 28, the article of footwear of any one or more of Examples 15-27, optionally further comprising wherein the control gesture is when the heel of the article of footwear is clicked with the heel of the second article of footwear.

In 29, the system of footwear comprises a first article of footwear and a second article of footwear, each article of footwear comprising a tensioning device comprising an upper, a window structure, a reel member, and a motor, the tensioning device comprising the upper and a tensioning device, a first sensor and a second sensor disposed within at least one of the window structures, wherein a portion of the tensioning member is coupled to the reel member such that the tensioning member can be wound on or unwound from the reel member; receive information from the sensor, enter an enabled mode when the information from the first sensor corresponds to a triggered gesture, and, while in the enabled mode, cause an associated one of the first and second articles of footwear to and a control unit configured to control a tensioning device associated with one of the first and second articles of footwear according to information received from the second sensor, corresponding to the control gesture.

In Example 30, the footwear system of Example 29, optionally further comprising wherein the first sensor is a contact sensor.

In Example 31, the footwear system of any one or more of Examples 29 and 30, optionally further comprising the second sensor being an angular velocity sensor.

In Example 32, the footwear system of any one or more of Examples 29-31, optionally further comprising a first sensor disposed within each heel of the first and second articles of footwear.

In Example 33, the footwear system of any one or more of Examples 29-32, optionally further comprising a second sensor disposed within each forefoot of the first and second articles of footwear.

In Example 34, the footwear system of any one or more of Examples 29-33, optionally further comprising wherein the control gesture is instructions to engage the motor to rotate the reel until fully tightened of the tensioning member.

In Example 35, the footwear system of any one or more of Examples 29-34, optionally further comprising wherein the control gesture is instructions to engage the motor to incrementally rotate the reel to tighten the tensioning member. .

In Example 36, the footwear system of any one or more of Examples 29-35, optionally further comprising wherein the control gesture is instructions to engage the motor to rotate the reel until complete loosening of the tensioning member.

In Example 37, the footwear system of any one or more of Examples 29-36, wherein the control gesture optionally further comprises instructions to engage the motor to incrementally rotate the reel to loosen the tensioning member. .

In Example 38, the footwear system of any one or more of Examples 29-37, optionally further comprising wherein the control gesture is when a toe of one of the first and second articles of footwear is tapped.

In Example 39, the footwear system of any one or more of Examples 29-38, optionally further comprising wherein the control gesture is when a heel of one of the first and second articles of footwear is tapped.

In Example 40, the footwear system of any one or more of Examples 29-39, wherein the control gesture is such that the forefoot of one of the first and second articles of footwear engages the window structure of the other of the first and second articles of footwear. It optionally further includes when it is contacted.

In Example 41, the footwear system of any one or more of Examples 29-40, wherein the control gesture is such that the heel of one of the first and second articles of footwear contacts the toe of the other of the first and second articles of footwear. Optionally further includes when to become.

In Example 42, the footwear system of any one or more of Examples 29-41, wherein the control gesture is such that the heel of one of the first and second articles of footwear clicks with the heel of the other of the first and second articles of footwear. and optionally when being king.

While several embodiments have been described, such descriptions are intended to be illustrative rather than restrictive, and those skilled in the art will clearly appreciate that many additional embodiments and implementations are possible that fall within the scope of the embodiments. Unless specifically limited otherwise, any feature in any embodiment may include or be substituted for any other feature or element in any other embodiment. Accordingly, the embodiments will not be limited except in light of the appended claims and their equivalents. In addition, various modifications and changes may be made within the scope of the appended claims.