U.S. patent application number 12/299240 was filed with the patent office on 2009-04-30 for footwear.
Invention is credited to Ashton Walter Bishop, Scott Michael Callaghan, Gavin Larkin.
Application Number | 20090107009 12/299240 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38667322 |
Filed Date | 2009-04-30 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090107009 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Bishop; Ashton Walter ; et
al. |
April 30, 2009 |
Footwear
Abstract
In a first broad form, the present invention provides an
apparatus for use with a shoe having a sole, the apparatus
including: at least one display adapted for mounting on a surface
of the shoe; and a means of adjusting the at least one display
between at least a first and a second colour state.
Inventors: |
Bishop; Ashton Walter; (New
South Wales, AU) ; Callaghan; Scott Michael; (New
South Wales, AU) ; Larkin; Gavin; (New South Wales,
AU) |
Correspondence
Address: |
THE WEBB LAW FIRM, P.C.
700 KOPPERS BUILDING, 436 SEVENTH AVENUE
PITTSBURGH
PA
15219
US
|
Family ID: |
38667322 |
Appl. No.: |
12/299240 |
Filed: |
May 2, 2007 |
PCT Filed: |
May 2, 2007 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/AU07/00579 |
371 Date: |
January 7, 2009 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60797614 |
May 3, 2006 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
36/114 ; 36/136;
36/25R; 36/28 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A43B 5/00 20130101; A43B
3/0005 20130101; A43B 7/00 20130101; A43B 1/0027 20130101; A43B
3/00 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
36/114 ; 36/136;
36/28; 36/25.R |
International
Class: |
A43B 5/00 20060101
A43B005/00; A43B 23/00 20060101 A43B023/00; A43B 13/18 20060101
A43B013/18; A43B 13/00 20060101 A43B013/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
May 3, 2006 |
AU |
2006902300 |
Claims
1-40. (canceled)
41. An apparatus for use with a shoe having a sole, the apparatus
including: at least one display adapted for mounting on a surface
of the shoe; and a means of adjusting the at least one display
between at least a first and a second colour state, the display
including a polymer material that is adapted to change colour when
a charge is applied to the polymer material.
42. An apparatus as claimed in claim 41 wherein the display
includes at least one of: (a) an Electro-Chromic Polymer (ECP) type
display; and (b) a Controlled Release Polymer (CRP) type
display.
43. An apparatus as claimed in claim 42 wherein when the CRP is
exposed to an electrical charge, a dye is released which
permanently alters the colour of the polymer.
44. An apparatus as claimed in claim 41 wherein the display is
adapted for mounting on to an outward-facing surface of the
shoe.
45. An apparatus as claimed in claim 41 including a processing
device for controlling the adjustment of the display between the at
least first and second colour states.
46. An apparatus as claimed in claim 45 wherein the processing
device is operatively connected with the display and is adapted to
provide a control signal to the display which controls adjustment
of the display between colour states.
47. An apparatus as claimed in claim 45 wherein the processing
device is user-programmable.
48. An apparatus as claimed in claim 47 wherein the processing
device is programmable by a user via a user-interface including at
least one of: (a) a key pad; (b) a graphical user interface; (c) a
joystick; (d) a mouse; (e) a switch; and (f) a button.
49. An apparatus as claimed in claim 48 wherein the user-interface
includes at least one of a mobile phone, PDA, and a notebook
computer.
50. An apparatus as claimed in 48 wherein the user interface is
able to be operatively connected to the processing device via
cable.
51. An apparatus as claimed in 48 wherein the user interface is
able to be operatively connected to the processing device via a
wireless communication link including at least one of: (a) a
Bluetooth connection; (b) a Wi-Fi connection; and (c) an Infra-red
connection.
52. An apparatus as claimed in claim 41 wherein the adjustment
means includes at least one of: (i) an automatic adjustment means;
and (ii) a manual adjustment means.
53. An apparatus as claimed in claim 52 wherein the automatic
adjustment means includes: a sensor adapted for sensing an
operating characteristic of the shoe and outputting an output
sensor signal in response to the sensed operating characteristic;
and a processing device adapted for receiving the output sensor
signal and providing a control signal in response to the received
output sensor signal, whereby the display is adapted to receive the
control signal and adjust between the first and second colour
states by reference to the received control signal.
54. An apparatus as claimed in claim 53 wherein the operating
characteristic which triggers an adjustment in the display includes
at least one of: (I) a detection of pressure being applied to the
sole of the shoe; (II) a detection of a threshold amount of
deterioration in a cushioning capacity of the sole; and (III) a
detection of a colour characteristic of an adjacent environment
relative to the shoe.
55. An apparatus as claimed in claim 54 wherein where the operating
characteristic which triggers and adjustment in the display
includes a detection of a colour characteristic of an adjacent
environment relative to the shoe, the colour characteristic
includes at least one of: (a) a colour characteristic of an item of
clothing worn by the user of the shoe; and (b) a colour
characteristic of physical surroundings in which the shoe is
located.
56. An apparatus as claimed in claim 54 wherein, where the
operating characteristic relates to a detection of a threshold
amount of deterioration in a cushioning capacity of the sole, the
present invention further includes: a means of determining a degree
of deterioration in a cushioning capacity of the sole; and a means
of comparing the degree of deterioration in the cushioning capacity
against a predetermined threshold value, wherein an output signal
is generated which is indicative of the comparison; and whereby,
the display is adapted to receive the output signal and change
state between at least the first colour state and the second colour
state in response to the received output signal, wherein when the
output signal indicates that the determined deterioration in the
cushioning capacity is less than the threshold value, the display
outputs the first colour state, and, when the output signal
indicates that the determined deterioration in the cushioning
capacity is greater than the threshold value, the display outputs
the second colour state
57. An apparatus as claimed in claim 56 wherein the threshold value
of deterioration in the shoe is measured in terms of at least one
of: (i) a distance travelled by the shoe in use; (ii) a number of
impacts absorbed by the sole; and (iii) a force of impact.
58. An apparatus as claimed in claim 56 wherein the threshold value
of deterioration in the shoe is pre-programmed into the processor
device.
59. An apparatus as claimed in claim 54 including a colour
detection device for detecting the colour characteristic of the
adjacent environment relative to the shoe.
60. An apparatus as claimed in claim 59 wherein the colour
detection device includes at least one of: (a) a colourimeter; and
(b) a light wand.
61. An apparatus as claimed in claim 54 including at least one
sensor adapted for detecting when pressure is being applied to the
sole of the shoe.
62. An apparatus as claimed in claim 61 wherein the sensor includes
at least one of: (a) a pressure sensor; and (b) a piezo-electric
sensor.
63. An apparatus as claimed in claim 41 including a plurality of
sensors.
64. An apparatus as claimed in claim 63 wherein the plurality of
sensors are positioned in proximity in a mid-sole of the shoe.
65. An apparatus as claimed in claim 63 wherein each of the
plurality of sensors are associated with at least one of a
plurality of displays mounted on the shoe, and each display is
independently adjustable between at least a first and a second
colour state, by reference to a sensor output signal produced by a
sensor associated with the display.
66. An apparatus as claimed in claim 41 including a means of
automatically adjusting the display between colour states by
reference to an output signal from a timing device.
67. An apparatus as claimed in claim 66 wherein the means of
automatically adjusting the display, automatically adjusts the
display between colour states when an output signal is detected
from the timing device indicating that a countdown has ended.
68. An apparatus as claimed in claim 56 wherein the predetermined
threshold value against which the degree of cushioning capacity of
the sole is compared, is adjustable depending upon a specific
weight of the user.
69. An apparatus as claimed in claim 68 wherein the predetermined
threshold value is adjusted by the processing device.
70. An apparatus as claimed in claim 68 wherein the user's weight
is able to be entered into the processing device for processing via
the user interface.
71. A shoe including: a sole; and at least one display disposed on
a surface of the shoe; and a means of adjusting the at least one
display between at least a first and a second colour state, the
display including a polymer material that is adapted to change
colour states when a charge is applied to the polymer material.
72. A shoe including: a sole; and a means of determining a degree
of deterioration in a cushioning capacity of the sole; and a means
of comparing the degree of deterioration in the cushioning capacity
against a predetermined threshold value, wherein an output signal
is generated which is indicative of the comparison; and a display
which is adapted to receive the output signal and change state
between at least a first colour state and a second colour state in
response to the received output signal, wherein when the output
signal indicates that the detennined deterioration in the
cushioning capacity is less than the threshold value, the display
outputs the first colour state, and, when the output signal
indicates that the determined deterioration in the cushioning
capacity is greater than the threshold value, the display outputs
the second colour state.
73. An apparatus for use with a shoe having a sole, the apparatus
including: a means of measuring a degree of pressure being applied
to the sole; and a means of comparing the degree of pressure being
applied to the sole against a predetermined pressure threshold
value, wherein an output signal is generated which is indicative of
the comparison; and a display adapted for mounting to a surface of
the shoe, wherein the display is adapted to receive the output
signal and change state between at least a first colour state and a
second colour state in response to the received output signal,
wherein when the output signal indicates that the determined degree
of pressure being applied to the sole is less than the threshold
value, the display outputs the first colour state, and, when the
output signal indicates that the determined degree of pressure
being applied to the sole is greater than the threshold value, the
display outputs the second colour state.
74. A shoe including: a sole; and a means of measuring a degree of
pressure being applied to the sole; and a means of comparing the
degree of pressure being applied to the sole against a
predetermined pressure threshold value, wherein an output signal is
generated which is indicative of the comparison; and a display
adapted for mounting to a surface of the shoe, wherein the display
is adapted to receive the output signal and change state between at
least a first colour state and a second colour state in response to
the received output signal, wherein when the output signal
indicates that the determined degree of pressure being applied to
the sole is less than the threshold value, the display outputs the
first colour state, and, when the output signal indicates that the
determined degree of pressure being applied to the sole is greater
than the threshold value, the display outputs the second colour
state.
75. An apparatus for use with a shoe having a sole, the apparatus
Including: a sensor for detecting a colour characteristic of an
adjacent surface relative to the shoe, wherein the sensor outputs a
sensor signal indicative of the detected colour characteristic; and
a display adapted for mounting to a surface of the shoe, wherein
the display is adapted to receive the sensor signal and adjust to a
colour state which approximates the detected colour
characteristic.
76. An apparatus as claimed in claim 75 wherein the sensor includes
at least one of: (I) a colourimeter; (II) a "light wand"; and (III)
an optical sensor.
77. A shoe including a sole; and a sensor for detecting a colour
characteristic of an adjacent surface relative to the shoe, wherein
the sensor outputs a sensor signal indicative of the detected
colour characteristic; and a display adapted for mounting to a
surface of the shoe, wherein the display is adapted to receive the
sensor signal and adjust to a colour state which approximates the
detected colour characteristic.
78. A method including the steps of: (i) mounting at least one
display on a surface of a shoe; and (ii) adjusting the at least one
display between at least a first and a second colour state, the
display including a polymer material that is adapted to change
colour states when a charge is applied to the polymer material.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present invention relates to the field of footwear and,
in particular, relates to the field of sporting and/or recreational
type footwear.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The soles of shoes tend to wear out over time as they are
used. However, such deterioration is not always readily apparent to
the user by visual inspection, and as such, the user may
inadvertently continue to use the shoe which may be detrimental to
the user's physical well-being.
[0003] In particular, the failure to replace a shoe once its
cushioning capacity has deteriorated to a potentially harmful
extent, may result in excessive stress being transferred to the
user's joints by continual use of the worn out shoe.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0004] The present invention seeks to alleviate at least one of the
problems discussed above in relation to the prior art.
[0005] The present invention involves several different broad
forms. Embodiments of the invention may include one or any
combination of the different broad forms herein described.
[0006] In a first broad form, the present invention provides an
apparatus for use with a shoe having a sole, the apparatus
including: [0007] at least one display adapted for mounting on a
surface of the shoe; and [0008] a means of adjusting the at least
one display between at least a first and a second colour state.
[0009] In a second broad form, the present invention provides a
shoe including: [0010] a sole; and [0011] at least one display
disposed on a surface of the shoe; and [0012] a means of adjusting
the at least one display between at least a first and a second
colour state.
[0013] Typically, the display includes at least one of: [0014] (a)
an Electro-Chromic Polymer (ECP) type display; and/or [0015] (b) a
Controlled Release Polymer (CRP) type display.
[0016] Typically, the ECP display includes a polymer material that
is adapted to change colour when a charge is applied to the polymer
material. Advantageously, ECP displays tend to be flexible and
resilient such that they lend themselves to be integrated into the
structure of a shoe. In contrast, prior art displays such as LCD
displays tend to be relatively rigid, prone to damage, and/or
relatively inflexible in terms of being integrated into a surface
of the prior art shoe. A further advantage in the use of an
ECP-type display in contrast to that of an LCD or LED type display
is that a constant electrical signal does not need to be applied to
the ECP display in order for it to retain its colour state.
[0017] Also typically, the CRP display includes a material that
changes its colour permanently when a charge is applied to the
polymer material. Typically, upon exposure to an electrical charge,
a dye is released permanently altering the colour of the
polymer.
[0018] Typically, the display may be disposed on an outward-facing
surface of the shoe. In certain embodiments, the display may be
formed as a "mask" which overlays the upper surface of the shoe. In
alternative embodiments of the present invention, the display may
be incorporated into a heel of the shoe.
[0019] Preferably, the present invention includes a processing
device adapted for, amongst other things, controlling the
adjustment of the display between the at least first and second
colour states. Typically, the processing device may be operatively
connected with the display and is able to provide control signals
to the display in order to control adjustment of the display
between colour states.
[0020] Typically the processing device may include a microprocessor
fabricated on an integrated circuit chip. Typically the
microprocessor may also include a power supply for powering the
microprocessor.
[0021] Preferably, the processing device may be programmable by a
user. For instance, the present invention may include a user
control device operatively interfaced with the processing device
via which the user may be able to input instructions to the
processor including instructions for controlling adjustment of the
display. Typically, the user control device may include at least
one of: [0022] (a) a key pad; [0023] (b) a graphical user
interface; [0024] (c) a joystick; [0025] (d) a mouse; [0026] (e) a
switch; and [0027] (f) a button.
[0028] Typically, the user control device may include a
purpose-built device, or alternatively, may include a mobile phone,
PDA or other computing device which may be programmed to operate as
the user control device. For instance, application-specific
software may be downloaded into either one of a mobile phone or a
PDA adapted for interfacing with the processor via either a wired
or wireless signalling link. Thus, instructions may be conveniently
entered into the processor via the mobile phone or PDA by a user
activating the keypad on the mobile phone or PDA without the user
necessarily having to purchase a purpose-built user control
device.
[0029] Typically, an input jack may be disposed on a surface of the
shoe which enables the user control device to be interfaced with
the processing device via a cable. For instance, the input jack may
include a USB or Firewire.RTM. type input jack. The jack may for
instance be disposed upon a relatively inconspicuous surface of the
shoe heel.
[0030] Alternatively, the user control device may be interfaced
with the processing device via a wireless signalling link.
Typically, the wireless signalling link may include at least one
of: [0031] (i) a signalling link based on a Bluetooth.RTM.
communication protocol; [0032] (ii) a signalling link based on a
Wi-Fi.RTM. communication protocol; [0033] (iii) a signalling link
based on an infra-red communication protocol; [0034] (iv) a
radio-frequency based link.
[0035] Preferably, the means of adjusting the display includes at
least one of: [0036] (i) an automatic adjustment means; and/or
[0037] (ii) a manual adjustment means.
[0038] Preferably, the automatic adjustment means includes: [0039]
a sensor adapted for sensing an operating characteristic of the
shoe and outputting an output sensor signal in response to the
sensed operating characteristic; and [0040] a processing device
adapted for receiving the output sensor signal and providing a
control signal in response to the received output sensor signal,
whereby the display is adapted to receive the control signal and
adjust between the first and second colour states by reference to
the received control signal.
[0041] Typically the operating characteristic which may trigger an
adjustment in the display may include at least one of: [0042] (I) a
detection of pressure being applied to the sole of the shoe; [0043]
(II) a detection of a threshold amount of deterioration in a
cushioning capacity of the sole; or [0044] (III) a detection of a
colour characteristic of an adjacent environment relative to the
shoe, the colour characteristic including at least one of: [0045]
(a) a colour characteristic of an item of clothing worn by the user
of the shoe; or [0046] (b) a colour characteristic of physical
surroundings in which the shoe is located; and [0047] (IV) a
user-designated operating characteristic of the shoe.
[0048] Typically, where the operating characteristic relates to a
detection of a threshold amount of deterioration in a cushioning
capacity of the sole, the present invention further includes:
[0049] a means of determining a degree of deterioration in a
cushioning capacity of the sole; and [0050] a means of comparing
the degree of deterioration in the cushioning capacity against a
predetermined threshold value, wherein an output signal is
generated which is indicative of the comparison; and [0051]
whereby, the display is adapted to receive the output signal and
change state between at least the first colour state and the second
colour state in response to the received output signal, wherein
when the output signal indicates that the determined deterioration
in the cushioning capacity is less than the threshold value, the
display outputs the first colour state, and, when the output signal
indicates that the determined deterioration in the cushioning
capacity is greater than the threshold value, the display outputs
the second colour state.
[0052] Typically, the determined deterioration in the cushioning
capacity of the sole may be estimated using a pedometer or other
suitable measuring device which is adapted to monitor at least one
of: [0053] (i) a distance traveled by the shoe in use; [0054] (ii)
a number of impacts absorbed by the sole; and [0055] (iii) a force
of impact.
[0056] Typically, the threshold value of deterioration in the shoe
may be pre-programmed into the processor device and may be
determined by using an impact tester to estimate the number of
impacts which may typically be absorbed by a sample shoe sole
before an "unacceptable" deterioration in the cushioning capacity
of the sole is incurred. The threshold value may therefore
correspond to the approximate number of impacts which are absorbed
by the sole in use before the unacceptable deterioration in the
cushioning capacity occurs.
[0057] Typically, the present invention includes a colour detection
device for detecting a colour characteristic of the adjacent
environment relative to the shoe in use. For instance, this may
include a colourimeter device, a "light wand", or the like.
Typically, the colourimeter may provide an output signal to the
processor which in turn may output a control signal to the display
which instructs the display to adjust to a colour state which
approximates the detected colour characteristic. Advantageously,
the ability of the display to adaptively change to a colour state
which approximates a colour characteristic of the surroundings may
assist the shoe in being camouflaged within its surroundings.
Typically, in this type of application, a plurality of displays may
be disposed upon the shoe surface so as to substantially cover the
shoe surface. This may for instance be particularly useful as an
application for combat-related footwear where the ability to "blend
in" to surroundings may be crucial. Alternatively, the
"camouflaging" ability of the present invention may also be
advantageous in a civilian capacity whereby the shoe may be adapted
to change colour to match any number of coloured outfits which may
be worn by the user.
[0058] Typically, the present invention may include at least one
sensor adapted for detecting when pressure is being applied to the
sole of the shoe. Typically, the sensor(s) may include at least one
of the following: [0059] (a) a pressure sensor; [0060] (b) a
piezo-electric sensor.
[0061] Typically, the sensor(s) may be disposed in a mid-sole
section of the shoe sole. Typically, the sensor(s) may be
operatively connected to the processing device and the processing
device is able to be programmed to cause adjustment in the display
whenever a threshold pressure value is detected upon the shoe sole.
The processing device may typically compare received sensor output
signals with the threshold pressure value and cause adjustment in
the display dynamically as the shoe is being worn about by a user.
Typically, the threshold pressure value may be pre-programmed into
the processor whereby the threshold pressure value may be selected
to approximate an amount of pressure which may typically be applied
to the sole of the shoe in use by an arbitrarily determined average
user of the shoe.
[0062] Typically, the processing device may calculate an average
pressure reading based on all of the sensor readings before
comparing the average pressure reading against the threshold
pressure value to determine if the display needs to be
adjusted.
[0063] Alternatively, in certain embodiments, the plurality of
sensors may each be uniquely associated with its own independent
corresponding display. In such an arrangement, the processing
device may compare the readings of each sensor independently
against the threshold pressure value, and, cause the corresponding
displays to adjust accordingly. Thus, for example, if the magnitude
of any pressure applied to the sole were to gradually shift along
the length of the sole, and if the corresponding displays were
arranged in substantially the same order as the sensors, then the
displays may be caused to adjust in real-time from the first colour
state into the second colour state in a wave-like or rippling
fashion along the shoe which is indicative of the transfer of
pressure along the sole of the shoe.
[0064] Also typically, the display includes an ECP-type display or
the like which may be able to continuously toggle back and forth
between at least 2 different colour states.
[0065] In yet alternative embodiments of the present invention, the
display may be caused to adjust automatically between colour states
by reference to an output signal from a timing device. The timing
device may for instance be integrated into the processing device.
In use, the processing device may send a control signal to the
display to change colour state upon detection of completion of a
countdown which may be pre-programmed into the processing device by
a user.
[0066] Preferably, the present invention includes a plurality of
displays disposed on the shoe surface. Typically, the plurality of
displays may be configured to operate either independently wherein
each of the plurality of displays may adjust between different
colour states and/or commence adjustment in response to different
control signals. Alternatively, each of the plurality of displays
may be configured to operate in unison with each other--for
instance, they may change colour simultaneously in response to a
commonly detected operating characteristic.
[0067] Typically, the wireless link may also be configured to
operatively interface at least one of: [0068] (a) the processor
with the display; and/or [0069] (b) the at least one sensor and/or
pedometer with the processor.
[0070] Preferably, the means of manually controlling adjustment of
the display includes the user control device. For instance, a user
may communicate an instruction to the processing device, which is
programmed to interpret the received instruction, so as cause the
display to toggle between a first colour state and a second colour
state by sending an appropriate control signal to the display.
Alternatively, the user may seek to deactivate the adjustment
capability of the display for a give period of time by
communicating an instruction to this effect to the processing
device via the user control device.
[0071] In certain embodiments of the present invention, the
processing device may be programmed to provide the user with an
option of selecting a particular operating format from a series of
pre-defined operating formats wherein each of the pre-defined
operating formats may be adapted to suit a particular class of
user. For instance a first operating format may adapted to suit
users falling within a relatively light weight range of between
50-65 Kg whilst a second operating format may be adapted to suit
users falling within a relatively heavier weight range of between
66-85 Kg and so on. In respect to the first operating format, the
predetermined threshold value against which deterioration of the
shoe's cushioning capacity is compared may be set at a higher level
taking into account that the relatively lower weight range of the
user may result in a prolonged cushioning life of the sole
throughout its use. Conversely, where the second operating format
is selected, the predetermined threshold value against which
deterioration of the shoe's cushioning capacity is compared, may
typically be set at a relatively lower level in view of the
relatively shorter cushioning life expectancy of the sole
throughout its use. User selection of a particular operating format
may be facilitated by having the options displayed to the user, for
instance, in the form of an interactive menu displayed on GUI of
the user control device.
[0072] Alternatively, the present invention may include a computer
program which is operable on the processor to prompt the user to
enter specific details regarding, amongst other things, the user's
weight and height. The program may be adapted to automatically
process the received user inputs so as to calculate, amongst other
things, a predetermined threshold value against which deterioration
in the cushioning capacity of the shoe may be compared. Similarly,
the computer program may also be adapted to calculate in real-time
other operating parameters such as the threshold value of pressure
which may be applied to the shoe before the display may be caused
to toggle between colour states.
[0073] The computer program may also be adapted to receive user
input instructions so as to select the colour of the at least first
and second colour states in use. For instance, the user may seek to
have the display provide a green colour state when the
predetermined threshold cushioning capacity has not been exceeded,
and, to adjust into a red colour state when the predetermined
threshold cushioning capacity has been exceeded. It would be
apparent to a person skilled in the art that any colour
combinations may be selectively programmed into the processing
device by a user in this manner.
[0074] Advantageously, by providing the user with a means of
selecting a more suitable operating format to suit his or her
needs, this may allow greater flexibility in the commercialisation
of the present invention in that a single shoe may be able to
accommodate a broader cross-section of the market.
[0075] Typically, the present invention may be at least partially
housed within a heel of the shoe. Preferably, at least the
processing device may be housed within the heel of the shoe.
[0076] In a third broad form, the present invention provides a shoe
including: [0077] a sole; and [0078] a means of determining a
degree of deterioration in a cushioning capacity of the sole; and
[0079] a means of comparing the degree of deterioration in the
cushioning capacity against a predetermined threshold value,
wherein an output signal is generated which is indicative of the
comparison; and [0080] a display which is adapted to receive the
output signal and change state between at least a first colour
state and a second colour state in response to the received output
signal, wherein when the output signal indicates that the
determined deterioration in the cushioning capacity is less than
the threshold value, the display outputs the first colour state,
and, when the output signal indicates that the determined
deterioration in the cushioning capacity is greater than the
threshold value, the display outputs the second colour state.
[0081] In a fourth broad form, the present invention provides an
apparatus for use with a shoe having a sole, the apparatus
including: [0082] a means of measuring a degree of pressure being
applied to the sole; and [0083] a means of comparing the degree of
pressure being applied to the sole against a predetermined pressure
threshold value, wherein an output signal is generated which is
indicative of the comparison; and [0084] a display adapted for
mounting to a surface of the shoe, wherein the display is adapted
to receive the output signal and change state between at least a
first colour state and a second colour state in response to the
received output signal, wherein when the output signal indicates
that the determined degree of pressure being applied to the sole is
less than the threshold value, the display outputs the first colour
state, and, when the output signal indicates that the determined
degree of pressure being applied to the sole is greater than the
threshold value, the display outputs the second colour state.
[0085] In a fifth broad form, the present invention provides a shoe
including: [0086] a sole; and [0087] a means of measuring a degree
of pressure being applied to the sole; and [0088] a means of
comparing the degree of pressure being applied to the sole against
a predetermined pressure threshold value, wherein an output signal
is generated which is indicative of the comparison; and [0089] a
display adapted for mounting to a surface of the shoe, wherein the
display is adapted to receive the output signal and change state
between at least a first colour state and a second colour state in
response to the received output signal, wherein when the output
signal indicates that the determined degree of pressure being
applied to the sole is less than the threshold value, the display
outputs the first colour state, and, when the output signal
indicates that the determined degree of pressure being applied to
the sole is greater than the threshold value, the display outputs
the second colour state.
[0090] In a sixth broad form, the present invention provides an
apparatus for use with a shoe having a sole, the apparatus
including: [0091] a sensor for detecting a colour characteristic of
an adjacent surface relative to the shoe, wherein the sensor
outputs a sensor signal indicative of the detected colour
characteristic; and [0092] a display adapted for mounting to a
surface of the shoe, wherein the display is adapted to receive the
sensor signal and adjust to a colour state which approximates the
detected colour characteristic.
[0093] Preferably, the sensor may include at least one of: [0094]
(I) a colourimeter; [0095] (II) a "light wand"; or [0096] (III) an
optical sensor.
[0097] In a seventh broad form, the present invention provides a
shoe including [0098] a sole: and [0099] a sensor for detecting a
colour characteristic of an adjacent surface relative to the shoe,
wherein the sensor outputs a sensor signal indicative of the
detected colour characteristic; and [0100] a display adapted for
mounting to a surface of the shoe, wherein the display is adapted
to receive the sensor signal and adjust to a colour state which
approximates the detected colour characteristic.
[0101] In an eighth broad form, the present invention provides a
method including the steps of: [0102] (i) mounting at least one
display on a surface of a shoe; and [0103] (ii) adjusting the at
least one display between at least a first and a second colour
state.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0104] The present invention will become more fully understood from
the following detailed description of a preferred but non-limiting
embodiment thereof, described in connection with the accompanying
drawings, wherein:
[0105] FIG. 1 depicts a rear view of a first embodiment of the
present invention;
[0106] FIG. 2 depicts a partial side view of the first
embodiment;
[0107] FIG. 3 depicts a transparent view of a heel portion of the
first embodiment;
[0108] FIG. 4 depicts a top view of an aspect of the first
embodiment;
[0109] FIG. 5 depicts a further aspect of the first embodiment;
[0110] FIG. 6 depicts a functional block diagram of the first
embodiment.
MODES FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
[0111] FIGS. 1 to 6 depict various aspects of a first embodiment of
the present invention.
[0112] The first embodiment includes a shoe (1) having a sole (2)
and first and second ECP displays (3a,3b) mounted on the shoe (1)
which are operatively interfaced with the microprocessor unit
(4).
[0113] The first display (3a) is mounted on a rear surface of the
shoe (1) as shown in FIG. 1, and, the second display (3b) is
mounted on an outward-facing surface of the shoe (1) as shown in
FIG. 2.
[0114] The microprocessor (4) is housed within a hollow compartment
of a heel (5) of the shoe (1) along with a power supply (6) for
powering the microprocessor (4). The power supply (6) includes a
compact 3-volt battery.
[0115] Both the first and second ECP displays (3a,3b) are adapted
to adjust between first and second colour states. The
microprocessor (4) is interfaced with the first and second displays
(3a,3b) via a first pair of electrodes (11a,11b) and a second pair
of electrodes (12a,12b) respectively. The microprocessor (4) is
able to provide control signals to the displays (3a,3b) in the form
of electrical signals having specific voltage characteristics
whereby, the displays (3a,3b) are configured to adjust colour
between the first and second colour states in response to the
received control signals. The ECP displays (3a,3b) in this
embodiment are adapted to receive control signals from the
microprocessor (4) independently of each other and to adjust colour
state independently of each other.
[0116] The first display (3a) includes a substantially "eye-shaped"
strip of ECP material. The second display (3b) consists of an "ECP
mask" which is adapted to overlay on an upper surface of the shoe
(1) during manufacture. For instance, a suitable adhesive or
stitching is able to be used to secure the "mask" to the upper
surface of the shoe (1). The second ECP display (3b) "mask" is
shown in stand-alone fashion connected to the microprocessor unit
(4) in FIG. 4.
[0117] A user control device (7) is provided to allow a user to
input instructions into the microprocessor (4). The user control
device (7) includes a GUI (7a) which allows instructions to be sent
to the microprocessor (4) by a user. The GUI (7a) is implemented
using application software running on a Windows CE.TM. operating
system platform, and, in combination with suitable hardware
including a touch-sensitive screen. The user control device (7) is
operatively interfaced with the microprocessor (4) via a
Bluetooth.RTM. based signalling link. However, it is also able to
be interfaced with the microprocessor (4) using a physical cable
via a USB port (8) disposed in an outward-facing surface of the
heel (5) as shown in FIG. 2. In certain embodiments, the user
control device (7) includes a keypad disposed on the shoe (1)
itself. In yet alternative embodiments, the user control device (7)
is able to be implemented via a mobile phone, PDA, or other
portable computing device upon which appropriate software has been
downloaded to allow it to interface with the microprocessor
(4).
[0118] The microprocessor (4) is adapted to be programmed via the
user control device (7) so as to select the colour of the first and
second colour states of the first and second displays (3a,3b).
[0119] The following description will now outline a series of
specific operational modes of the first embodiment. A user is able
to selectively activate and/or deactivate any or all of the
operational modes if so desired by providing an appropriate
instruction to the microprocessor (4) via the user control device
(7). A master "On/Off" switch (10) could be disposed on a surface
of the heel (5) which allows the user to completely selectively
activate and/or deactivate the microprocessor (4) altogether if
required.
Operational Mode A
[0120] The microprocessor (4) is programmed to automatically
control the adjustment of the second display (3b) between the first
and second colour states depending upon a degree of pressure that
is detected upon the sole (2) of the shoe (1) in use.
[0121] A plurality of pressure sensors (9a) are distributed within
a mid-sole (2a) of the shoe (1) and are adapted to detect pressure
that is applied to the sole (2) of the shoe (1) in ordinary use.
FIG. 5 shows the mid-sole (2a) of the shoe (1) in stand-alone
fashion with the pressure sensors (9a) distributed around the
mid-sole (2a), and each pressure sensor (9a) being connected to the
microprocessor (4) via separate electrical leads.
[0122] In real-time, the microprocessor (4), uses the received
pressure sensor (9a) inputs to calculate an average pressure
reading. The microprocessor (4) is programmed to compare the
average pressure sensor reading at any given time against a
predetermined pressure threshold value. If the average pressure
sensor reading is determined to be greater than the threshold
value, the microprocessor (4) outputs a control signal to the
second ECP display (3b) causing it to adjust from the first colour
state into the second colour state. Conversely, when the average
pressure reading is determined to be less than the predetermined
pressure value, the output control signal of the microprocessor (4)
which is received by the second ECP display (3b) instructs the
second ECP display (3b) to remain in the first colour state, or, if
the second display is outputting the second colour state, revert to
the first colour state.
[0123] The predetermined threshold pressure value can be pre-set
into the microprocessor (4) to correspond to a pressure value which
would be estimated to be applied to the sole (2) when a person of
average weight were stepping on the sole (2) of the shoe (1).
Operational Mode B
[0124] The microprocessor (4) is also programmed to automatically
adjust the first display (3a) from the first colour state (eg.
green), into the second colour state (eg. red) whenever it
determines that a degree of deterioration of a cushioning capacity
of the sole (2) has fallen below a predetermined deterioration
threshold value of the sole (2) through use.
[0125] A pedometer (9b) is disposed in the heel of the shoe (1)
which is also interfaced with the microprocessor (4). The
microprocessor (4) receives an output signal in real-time from the
pedometer (9b) (in terms of metres traveled by the shoe) and
compares the pedometer signal with the predetermined deterioration
threshold value. The predetermined deterioration threshold value
represents an arbitrary measure of the distance traveled by the
shoe (1) before a cushioning capacity of the sole (2) is estimated
to have deteriorated to an unacceptable extent. The predetermined
deterioration threshold value of the cushioning capacity of the
sole is generally predetermined by testing a sample sole (2) to
determine an approximate distance which would be traveled in
ordinary usage before the sole (2) has deteriorated.
[0126] The microprocessor (4) compares the pedometer output with
the predetermined deterioration threshold value and causes the
first display (3a) to change into the second colour state if the
pedometer (9b) reading exceeds the predetermined deterioration
threshold value--thus indicating that the cushioning ability of the
sole (2) has worn out and the shoe (1) should be replaced.
Conversely, if the predetermined deterioration threshold value has
not been exceeded by the pedometer value, then the microprocessor
(4) will automatically instruct the first display (3a) to remain in
the first colour state.
Operational Mode C
[0127] In a further operation mode, a colourimeter (9c) is
interfaced with the microprocessor (4). The colourimeter (9c)
outputs a signal to the microprocessor (4) which compares the
received reading with each colour state of the second ECP display
(3b) and instructs the second ECP display (3b) to change to the
colour state which best approximates the colourimeter reading.
Thus, for instance if the user is intending to wear a blue outfit
to a party and wants his/her shoe(s) to match this colour, the user
is able to scan the colour of the outfit by placing the
colourimeter (9c) in proximity to the item of clothing. If say the
second colour state were approximately a similar shade of red as
the outfit, the microprocessor (4) would instruct the display (3b)
to toggle into the second colour state. In other embodiments of the
present invention, the second display (3b) is able to be adjusted
into any number of possible colour states, each of which can
approximate a particular colour or shade.
[0128] The reference in this specification to any prior publication
(or information derived from it), or to any matter which is known,
is not, and should not be taken as an acknowledgment or admission
or any form of suggestion that that prior publication (or
information derived from it) or known matter forms part of the
common general knowledge in the field of endeavour to which this
specification relates.
[0129] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the invention
described herein is susceptible to variations and modifications
other than those specifically described without departing from the
scope of the invention. All such variations and modification which
become apparent to persons skilled in the art, should be considered
to fall within the spirit and scope of the invention as broadly
hereinbefore described. It is to be understood that the invention
includes all such variations and modifications. The invention also
includes all of the steps and features, referred or indicated in
the specification, individually or collectively, and any and all
combinations of any two or more of said steps or features.
* * * * *