Abstract: A system is provided for integrated foot measurement and last manufacture which comprises a foot sizing device for determining foot sizing data by empirically measuring a foot to determine proper fit of a predetermined footwear style, a data processing device for receiving the foot sizing data from the foot sizing device and for transmitting the foot sizing and footwear style data, and a computer automated design mechanism for receiving the data from the data processing device and deriving machine readable data in a form suitable for transmission to footwear last production machinery for manufacture of a footwear last. The system also may include footwear last production machinery configured to utilize the machine readable data in the manufacturing of a footwear last. The foot sizing device preferably includes an electro-optical scanner which is capable of accurately determining foot sizing data of a foot covered by stocking as well as a foot of light or dark skin tones.

Abstract: A system is provided for reducing and managing the inventory of lasts needed for footwear production which comprises a foot sizing device for determining foot sizing data by empirically measuring a plurality of feet at a footwear sales location, a data processing device logically coupled to the foot sizing device for receiving the foot sizing data from the foot sizing device, and a statistical trend analysis mechanism logically coupled to the data processing device for analyzing the foot sizing data received by the data processing device and for identifying foot sizing data groups whereby efficient manufacture of footwear lasts according to empirical foot sizing needs may be achieved. The system may include an inventory control feedback mechanism logically coupled to the data processing device which provides last inventory status information on demand.

Abstract: An integrated system is provided for footwear visual image cataloging and selection which includes a foot measuring device for electronically measuring a customer's foot, a data processing device for receiving foot measurement data, customer identification data and customer preference data, a storage device for storing a footwear catalog comprising footwear images and footwear related data, and a visual display for displaying images and data related to the measured foot, suggested footwear images and suggested footwear related data stored in the footwear catalog wherein the suggested footwear images and footwear related data are automatically selected by matching the customer preference data and foot measurement data to footwear related data in the footwear catalog.