Abstract: A real-time imaging contact gauge for indicating the distribution of contact pressure over a surface includes a transparent base panel, a pressure-transmitting member at one face of the transparent base panel for receiving the contact pressure to be indicated, a birefringent member sensitive to mechanical pressure located between the pressure-transmitting member and the transparent base panel, a plurality of spaced, parallel electro-luminescent layers carried by the transparent base panel for illuminating the birefringent layer, and a polarizer for polarizing the light transmitted to the birefringent layer to produce optical interference patterns corresponding to the contact presssure distribution applied to the pressure-transmitting member, which patterns are viewable through the opposite face of the transparent base panel.

Abstract: A cushioning device for cushioning the contact load on a foot during gait. The cushioning device includes a tread of curvilinear shock absorbing elements substantially extending along a basic contact trajectory equivalent to the locus of substantially maximum contact stress during foot rolling. Each shock absorbing element has a triangular-shaped cross section having an inclined face oriented toward the contact trajectory such that each of the shock absorbing elements is flexed away from the basic contact trajectory during stance. As a result, the cushioning device deforms along the basic contact trajectory to a greater degree than on the rest of the device area, thereby equalizing the plantar contact stresses and improving the shock absorbing process.