The core principle of a plantar pressure measurement device is:
By arranging a high-sensitivity pressure sensor array within the pressure plate, the device collects pressure data from different areas of the plantar surface during standing, walking, or running. These data are then converted into electrical signals, which are further analyzed and visualized by the system to evaluate foot pressure distribution, gait characteristics, and body balance status.
1. Sensor Working Principle
A large number of micro pressure sensors are embedded at the bottom or inside the device in a two-dimensional array, used to capture the pressure magnitude at each contact point on the plantar surface. The main working modes of these sensors include:
Resistive sensors: Pressure changes cause variations in resistance; the most commonly used, with fast response and low cost
Capacitive sensors: Pressure changes lead to variations in capacitance; relatively high accuracy
Piezoelectric sensors: Automatically generate electric charge under pressure; suitable for dynamic detection
Optical fiber sensors: Pressure affects the propagation characteristics of light signals; strong stability and good anti-interference capability
2. Data Acquisition and Conversion
The electrical signals generated by the sensors are converted into digital signals by a data acquisition module and transmitted to a computer or mobile device. The system transforms the signals into visualized data, such as plantar pressure distribution maps or dynamic trajectory diagrams, allowing users to directly observe force variations in each region.
3. Static and Dynamic Analysis
Static analysis is used to measure whether the pressure distribution during standing is balanced, such as identifying flatfoot, high arches, or center-of-gravity deviation.
Dynamic analysis focuses on the gait process, including the order of foot contact, pressure movement trajectory, step length, cadence, and support time, and is commonly applied in sports rehabilitation or gait correction.
4. Key Analysis Indicators Include
Maximum plantar pressure, average pressure, center of pressure (COP) trajectory, left-right load ratio, arch type, step length, step frequency, support and swing time, etc.
5. Common Forms of Application Equipment
Pressure measurement mats: Used in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, or sports science laboratories
Smart pressure insoles: Wearable and portable, suitable for outdoor dynamic detection
Gait analysis treadmills: Integrate video and pressure data for professional sports evaluation
Balance assessment platforms: Used for evaluating and training balance in elderly individuals
