Patent ID: 8006795
Filing Date: 2011-08-30
Classification: A43B,A61H,A63C

Abstract:
1. A device for assisting a user in avoiding losing balance and tripping, the device comprising: a footwear device to be attached to a foot of the user standing or walking on a surface, the footwear device including: at least one sensor for sensing changes in weight distribution of the foot on the surface indicative of an imminent tripping hazard of the user; and a controller for receiving signals from said at least one sensor indicative of the imminent tripping hazard and for actuating at least one propulsion unit, said at least one propulsion unit including at least one rolling element located at and at least partially confined within a heel of the footwear device for moving the foot of the user in a desired direction and a determined distance across the surface, such that the center of the body weight of the user is brought over a support area under the user when the imminent tripping hazard is sensed, wherein said at least one rolling element is prevented from rolling at all times except when activated by the propulsion unit when the imminent tripping hazard is sensed.