Abstract: An improved apparatus and method are described for continuously measuring the timing and distribution of forces exerted against the entire surface of a quadruped's foot, thus providing a diagnostic tool to assist in measuring the ambulatory functions of an animal. The described force sensing device is lightweight, durable and worn by the animal in a manner which does not alter the natural movement of the quadruped. The device may be utilized without a shoe within an attached boot, or incorporated in a modified conventional horseshoe which fits over the hoof of the animal. The apparatus can further include a remote sensing and feedback function which allows the processing, storing, display and feedback of data indicative of the ambulatory functions of the animal at one or more remote locations.

Abstract: An improved apparatus and method are described for continuously measuring the timing and distribution of forces exerted against the entire surface of a quadruped's foot, thus providing a diagnostic tool to assist in measuring the ambulatory functions of an animal. The described force sensing device is lightweight, durable and worn by the animal in a manner which does not alter the natural movement of the quadruped. The device may be utilized without a shoe within an attached boot, or incorporated in a modified conventional horseshoe which fits over the hoof of the animal. The apparatus can further include a remote sensing and feedback function which allows the processing, storing, display and feedback of data indicative of the ambulatory functions of the animal at one or more remote locations.

Abstract: A self-contained system for measuring forces applied by the foot of a user includes a force sensor array positioned within the user's shoe between the foot and the inner sole of the shoe. The force sensor array including a multiplicity of individual force sensors arranged in a pattern that covers the area of contact between the sole of the user's foot and the inner sole of the shoe, and a substrate material which is so rigid that it will not operatively conform to the user's foot unless a plurality of shaped cutout portions of the substrate material is removed in order to allow the force sensor array to operatively conform to the user's foot when force is applied. An electronic circuit module is removably attached to the side of the shoe and a flat interconnecting cable electrically couples the force sensor array to the electronic circuit module. An annuniciator audibly signals the user when a force on the foot greater than a predetermined threshold force is sensed.

Abstract: A self-contained system for measuring forces applied to the foot of a user includes a force sensor array positioned within the user's shoe between the foot and the inner sole of the shoe, the force sensor array including a multiplicity of individual force sensors arranged in a pattern that covers the entire area of contact between the sole of the user's foot and the inner sole of the shoe, an electronic circuit module removably attached to the side of the shoe, and a flat interconnecting cable for electrically coupling the force sensor array to the electronic circuit module.