Advanced Foot Presence Sensor Tech for Smart Footwear
Legal Citation
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent, 'Foot presence signal processing systems and methods', introduced a system for monitoring foot presence in footwear using capacitance-indicating sensors. However, this system had limitations in terms of accuracy, calibration, and user experience. The new invention addresses these limitations by incorporating temperature sensing, advanced calibration, and modular automated lacing features, providing a more comprehensive and efficient foot presence signal processing system.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new invention provides several novel and non-obvious features compared to the original patent, including the integration of temperature sensing, advanced calibration, and modular automated lacing features. These features enhance the accuracy, efficiency, and user experience of the foot presence signal processing system, providing a significant improvement over the prior art.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the invention could include the use of different types of sensors, such as pressure sensors or optical sensors, to detect foot presence. The system could also be adapted for use in various types of footwear, including athletic shoes, hiking boots, or dress shoes. Additionally, the modular automated lacing feature could be integrated with other types of wearable devices, such as smartwatches or fitness trackers.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The enhanced foot presence signal processing system has significant commercial potential in the wearable technology and sports industries. The system could be integrated into various types of footwear, providing a competitive advantage for manufacturers and enhancing the user experience for consumers. The market for wearable devices is expected to continue growing, and the new invention is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A43 | A43C11/165 |
| A | A43 | A43B1/0054 |
| A | A43 | A43B3/0031 |
| A | A43 | A43B3/34 |
| A | A43 | A43B3/36 |
| A | A43 | A43B13/14 |
| A | A43 | A43B17/00 |
| A | A43 | A43C1/00 |
| A | A43 | A43C7/00 |
| A | A43 | A43C11/008 |
| A | A61 | A61B5/6807 |
| G | G01 | G01D5/12 |
| G | G01 | G01D5/24 |
| G | G01 | G01L1/12 |
| G | G01 | G01L1/14 |
| G | G01 | G01L1/142 |
| G | G01 | G01L1/144 |
| G | G01 | G01L5/0009 |
| G | G01 | G01L5/0014 |
| G | G01 | G01L5/0071 |
| G | G01 | G01L5/12 |
| G | G01 | G01L5/16 |
| G | G01 | G01L5/165 |
| G | G01 | G01L5/24 |
| G | G05 | G05B15/02 |
| G | G05 | G05B19/048 |
| A | A43 | A43B3/38 |
| A | A43 | A43C1/003 |
| A | A43 | A43C1/006 |
| A | A43 | A43C1/02 |
| A | A43 | A43C1/04 |
| A | A43 | A43C1/06 |
| A | A43 | A43C11/00 |
| G | G01 | G01D5/145 |
| G | G01 | G01D5/2405 |
| G | G01 | G01D5/34 |
| G | G05 | G05B2219/24015 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Footwear sensor systems and wearable technology, specifically focusing on foot presence detection, sensor integration, and smart shoe design with expertise in capacitive sensing, signal processing, and biomechanical measurement technologies
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A skilled engineer with a background in electrical engineering, sensor design, and wearable technology, possessing knowledge of capacitive sensing techniques, signal processing algorithms, and shoe manufacturing principles, with the ability to combine known technologies in predictable ways
Obviousness Rationale
A person having ordinary skill in the art would recognize that the published technical disclosure represents predictable variations of the source patent's core capacitive foot presence detection system. The proposed modifications involve standard engineering techniques of adding supplementary sensors, implementing calibration processes, and creating modular design architectures that are well-known in wearable sensor technology. These extensions represent logical combinations of existing technological capabilities that would be apparent to a skilled practitioner seeking to enhance foot sensing systems.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,029 |
|---|---|
| Title | Foot presence signal processing systems and methods |
| Assignee(s) | NIKE, Inc. |