Open-Source Strain Gauge System for Monitoring Pressure Distribution of Runner's Feet

The objective of the research presented in this paper was to provide a novel open-source strain gauge system that shall enable the measurement of the pressure of a runner's feet on the ground and the presentation of the results of that measurement to the user. The system based on electronic shoe inserts with 16 built-in pressure sensors laminated in a transparent film was created, consisting of two parts: a mobile application and a wearable device. The developed system provides a number of advantages in comparison with existing solutions, including no need for calibration, an accurate and frequent measurement of pressure distribution, placement of electronics on the outside of a shoe, low cost, and an open-source approach to encourage enhancements and open collaboration.

Automated summary

The objective of this research was to develop an open-source strain gauge system that can measure the pressure of a runner's feet on the ground and display the results to the user. The system consists of electronic shoe inserts with 16 built-in pressure sensors laminated in a transparent film, along with a mobile application and a wearable device. It offers advantages over existing solutions, such as no calibration requirement, accurate and frequent pressure measurement, external placement of electronics on the shoe, low cost, and an open-source approach for collaboration and enhancement.