INTELLIGENT ELECTRONIC FOOTWEAR AND CONTROL LOGIC FOR EXECUTING AUTOMATED FOOTWEAR FEATURES

Smart overview of the Invention

Intelligent electronic footwear (IES) is designed to enhance user experience by integrating automated features and control systems into footwear. This technology involves a shoe with an upper that secures the foot and a sole structure that supports it. The system includes an alert mechanism that generates outputs in response to electronic signals, a wireless communication device for remote connectivity, and a controller that processes location data. This setup allows the IES to determine proximity to a remote computing node and send alerts accordingly.

Footwear-to-Vehicle Communication

A significant application of IES is in facilitating communication between footwear and vehicles, particularly useful in ride-sharing scenarios. When a user wearing IES is waiting for a ride-share driver, the system can help the driver identify the user in crowded or busy environments. The IES tracks real-time locations of both the user and driver, triggering visual or audible alerts when they are in close proximity. These alerts can include shoe lights flashing or changing colors, or even signals sent to the vehicle's system to produce similar outputs.

Wireless Communication and User Interaction

The IES can connect wirelessly through the user's smartphone or operate independently with its own communication device embedded in the shoe. Additional hardware components like memory, sensors, and a battery are housed within the shoe. Users can interact with the IES through a human-machine interface (HMI), which may include sensors for input. The system can execute commands locally or through distributed computing involving external devices like smartphones.

Security and Authentication Features

To ensure secure use of automated features, IES incorporates user authentication processes. Sensors within the shoe can perform biometric validations such as weight or toe print recognition. These sensors also confirm that the shoe is worn before executing commands. Once authenticated, IES can facilitate transactions or access control for events. Registration with an IoAAF system may be required, involving serial number logging and digital locker verification using blockchain technology for secure authentication.

Application Beyond Footwear

While primarily described for footwear, the technology can extend to other wearable apparel like clothing and accessories. The networked control systems developed for IES enable various automated features across different wearable items, enhancing functionality and user interaction. The underlying principles of location-based alerts and secure communications can be adapted to a wide range of wearable technologies.