FlexiForce™ Sensors Used in iShoe

Background: Annually, nearly 300,000 Americans suffer hip fractures after a fall, and an average of 24% of hip-fracture patients aged 50 and over die in the year following their fracture, according to the National Osteoporosis Foundation. An MIT graduate student identified a need to monitor changes of balance in the elderly in an effort to detect problems and take steps to prevent a fall.

Solution: Incorporating ultra-thin sensors into a "smart shoe" known as the iShoe. iShoe insoles contain FlexiForce™ force sensors to measure and analyze force distribution on a patient’s foot. The data can then be reported back to their doctor. The iShoe could also be equipped to notify family members in the event of a fall. Future versions of the iShoe could help correct balance problems by providing sensory stimulation to the feet when it detects that the subject is deviating from his or her normal balance. FlexiForce sensors are ideal because their ultra-thin profile does not disrupt the subject’s natural gait.

Tekscan Insole Pressure Sensors for Gait Analysis or Balance Assessment

Did you know?

• Tekscan foot pressure sensors are the sensor technology behind the Dr. Scholls insole retail kiosks.
• Tekscan's insole pressure measurement gait analysis system, the F-Scan, offers the highest resolution sensors available, capturing more than 4x the pressure detail vs. the closest insole competitor.
• Tekscan's foot mapping mats for retail can deliver foot pressure data direct to orthotics or shoe customers or provide you with a technology platform to design your own system using our mat technology and your software via our API and SDK.

Whether you are building a new application or system to measure insole foot pressure, or are a researcher or clinician looking to research, study, or help patients with insoles and orthotics, Tekscan has the foot pressure sensors and systems you need.

Benefits of FlexiForce Sensors

• Ultra-thin sensor construction and flexibility means minimal interference/disturbance to normal action
• Accurate response gives your customers and end users confidence in the performance of your product
• Knowledgeable, experienced technical staff help you develop the most effective, economical sensor based on your specific requirements.  All manufacturing takes place at ISO 9001 compliant & 13485 registered Tekscan headquarters.
• 100% factory inspection ensures your sensors meet established performance specifications

Getting Started with FlexiForce Sensors

FlexiForce sensors are available off-the-shelf in packs of four or eight for testing and prototyping. Visit our online store to place an order, or contact us to discuss customization options with one of our engineers.