What is the principle of the foot pressure gait analysis system?

The core principle of the foot pressure gait analysis system is primarily based on real-time collection of the pressure distribution and dynamic changes when the foot contacts the ground through a sensor array, combined with gait cycle parameters, to analyze the mechanical characteristics of walking or running.

Specific Principle Components:

• Sensor Collection Principle:
  • Pressure Sensor Array: Typically piezoelectric, thin-film resistive, or capacitive sensors, distributed on a force measurement platform or in insoles.
  • Function: When the foot contacts the ground, the forces on different areas cause changes in the sensor’s resistance, capacitance, or voltage signals, reflecting the local pressure magnitude.
• Signal Collection and Processing:
  • The sensor outputs electrical signals, which are converted into digital signals by the acquisition module.
  • The system amplifies, filters, and normalizes the signals to obtain the instantaneous pressure values at each point of the foot.
• Data Calculation and Parameter Extraction:
  • Based on the pressure distribution and time series, the following information is extracted:
    • Spatial Parameters: Step length, step width, center of pressure trajectory, stance phase position.
    • Temporal Parameters: Gait cycle, step frequency, stance/swing phase duration.
    • Mechanical Parameters: Pressure peak values, torque, maximum push-off force in each foot region.
• Image and Curve Analysis:
  • The system generates a foot pressure distribution heatmap (different colors represent different pressure levels).
  • Provides curves showing pressure changes over time (gait waveform, such as the common bimodal shape).
• Comprehensive Gait Analysis:
  • By combining pressure distribution and temporal features, the system can determine whether the gait is normal (e.g., checking for pronation, supination, abnormal force application, or instability).
  • It can be used in medical rehabilitation (e.g., diabetic foot, stroke rehabilitation), sports training (optimizing running posture, reducing injury), and footwear design.