Patent Publication Number: US-10327672-B2

Title: System and method for analyzing athletic activity

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/717,650, filed May 20, 2015, which is a continuation-in-part of co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/757,417, filed Feb. 1, 2013, and this application claims priority to and the benefit of such application, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety 
    
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The present invention generally relates to systems, apparatuses, and methods for analyzing athletic activity and, more particularly, to systems, apparatuses, and methods for providing coaching feedback to a user based on analysis of athletic activity, e.g., when transitioning to a new footwear type, which may utilize data input from a sensor system incorporated into an article of footwear or other article of apparel. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Systems for analysis of athletic activity that utilize data collected from athletic activity are known. Such data can be analyzed and presented to a user in a number of different forms and formats, including by indication of performance metrics. However, uses for such athletic activity data and metrics can be unnecessarily limited. As one example, such data and performance metrics are often limited in providing active, real-time feedback and/or forward-looking feedback to the user. Accordingly, while certain systems for analyzing athletic activity provide a number of advantageous features, they nevertheless have certain limitations. The systems, apparatuses, and methods disclosed herein seek to overcome certain of these limitations and other drawbacks of the prior art, and to provide new features not heretofore available. 
     Recent trends and changes in footwear have created a need for systems for transitioning a wearer to a new footwear type. For example, minimal footwear is designed to mimic barefoot running by implementing less cushioning and stability than traditional running shoes, and often with no drop between the heel and forefoot, no arch support, no midsole, and either no heel counter or a flexible heel counter. Minimal footwear has gained popularity by promoting a natural motion of the foot that results in fewer injuries. However, transitioning from traditional footwear to minimal footwear may take time and proper instruction for the avoidance of injuries and other problems. Runners who incorporate minimal footwear into their running programs without any alteration in running volume or any preparation of their foot and ankle musculature have been found to be more prone to injuries. This is likely because most traditional shoe wearers have a more posterior strike pattern (e.g., a heel footstrike pattern), a higher vertical impact peak, greater dorsiflexion of the foot and less knee flexion at foot strike compared with preferred minimal footstrike pattern. Studies have found that wearers transitioning from traditional to minimal footwear often did not sufficiently alter their leg and foot biomechanics to properly adapt to the minimal footwear conditions. Injuries are considered likely due to poor transitioning as opposed to the minimal footwear itself. Accordingly, switching between traditional and minimal running shoes requires proper transitioning for the avoidance of injuries. 
     BRIEF SUMMARY 
     The present invention relates generally to a system for transitioning from a first footwear type to a second footwear type that is used with an article of footwear of the second footwear type including a sensor system with a plurality of force sensors engaged with the article of footwear and configured to sense force exerted by a user&#39;s foot, an electronic module configured for collecting data based on force input from the sensors and for wirelessly transmitting the data generated by the sensor system. The system also includes an electronic device in communication with the electronic module. The electronic device includes a processor that is configured to receive the data from the electronic module, compare the data to a footstrike template corresponding to a desired footstrike pattern of a footwear transitional program to determine whether a deviation from the footstrike template exists, and generate an indication to the user when the deviation from the desired footstrike pattern is determined to exist. The desired footstrike pattern corresponds to a preferred footstrike of the second footwear type. According to an aspect, the second footwear type is a minimal footwear and the desired footstrike pattern is a midfoot or forefoot strike pattern. The indication may further include a degree of deviation from the footstrike template. The indication may be visual, audible, tactile, and/or other type of indication. 
     According to one aspect, the electronic device is further configured for recording a plurality of data points for the user during an athletic activity session and providing feedback to the user based on data recorded during the athletic activity session. The feedback provided to the user may include a suggested activity report for a subsequent athletic activity and/or a suggested stretching activity. 
     According to another aspect, the electronic device is further configured for recording a plurality of athletic activity sessions for a user and modifying a duration of the transitional program based on at least one of an amount or number of recorded deviations, a total time of recorded data, and a total distance of recorded data. The electronic device may further be configured for receiving a user input corresponding to a perceived discomfort during an athletic activity. 
     According to another aspect, the footwear transitional program is customizable by a user type and may be based on at least one of age, weight, gender, excursion distance and speed. The footwear transitional program may include a plurality of desired footstrike patterns varying throughout the footwear transitional program, with a final desired footstrike pattern corresponding to a most preferred footstrike for the second footwear type and the electronic device may vary the desired footstrike pattern after a designated amount of usage. The deviation may be determined to exist if the degree of deviation is determined to exceed a predetermined threshold. 
     According to another aspect, generating the indication includes transmitting a signal to a second electronic device, where the signal is configured to cause the second electronic device to generate the indication. 
     According to a further aspect, comparing the data to the footstrike template includes detecting a footstrike pattern based on analysis of the data and comparing the footstrike pattern to the footstrike template. In one embodiment, the plurality of sensors are located in different locations on the article of footwear, and the footstrike pattern is detected based on the sequence of the forces sensed by the sensors and/or the level of the forces sensed by the sensors. In another embodiment, the plurality of sensors are further configured to measure a pressure distribution under the foot and the electronic device is further configured for comparing pressure distribution data to a foot pressure template. 
     According to yet another aspect, the system further includes a GPS module configured for detecting the user&#39;s position, where the GPS module is in communication with the electronic device. The GPS module may be located within the electronic device, within the electronic module, or elsewhere. The electronic device is further configured for generating an indication of the user&#39;s position to the user based on communication with the GPS module. In one embodiment, where the GPS module is located within the electronic module, the electronic device is further configured for receiving position information regarding the user&#39;s position from the electronic module and generating the indication of the user&#39;s position to the user based on the position information. In another embodiment, the electronic device may be further configured for receiving environmental information related to the user&#39;s position, which may be obtained by communication with an external server or other device, and for communicating the environmental information to the user, such as by video and/or audio display. Such environmental information may be used for presenting a suggested travel route to the user based on the environmental information. In a further embodiment, the electronic device may further be configured for receiving terrain information related to the user&#39;s position and altering the footstrike template based on the terrain information. Such terrain information may also be obtained by communication with an external server or other device. 
     According to a further aspect, the system further includes a leg sensor system configured to sense force exerted on a leg of a user and operably connected to the electronic device. The electronic device is further configured to compare the sensed force to a biomechanical movement template, the biomechanical movement template corresponding to a desired biomechanical leg movement pattern of the footwear transitional program, to determine whether a deviation from the biomechanical movement template exists and to generate an indication to the user when the deviation from the desired biomechanical leg movement pattern is determined to exist. In some examples, the indication further includes a degree of deviation from the biomechanical movement template. 
     According to a still further aspect, the electronic device may alter the footstrike template after a designated amount of usage, such as a designated amount of time or a designated running distance. 
     Additional aspects of the invention relate to a system for analyzing athletic activity that may be used in connection with a sensor system including a plurality of force sensors configured to be engaged with an article of footwear and configured to sense force exerted by a user&#39;s foot and an electronic device in communication with the sensor system. The electronic device is configured to receive data generated by the sensor system, analyze the data to determine whether a deviation from a desired footstrike pattern exists, and generate an indication to the user when the deviation from the desired footstrike pattern is determined to exist, wherein the indication comprises at least one of a visual indication, an audible indication, and a tactile indication. Any of the various aspects described above may be used in connection with this system. 
     Further aspects of the invention relate to a computer-assisted method for transitioning from a first footwear type to a second footwear type. The method may include receiving data, at a processor of an electronic device, from a sensor system configured for sensing biomechanical movement of a foot of a user during an athletic activity session, the sensor system includes an electronic module configured for wireless transmission of data generated by the sensor system, and wherein the data is received from the electronic module. The method may further include analyzing the data to determine whether a deviation from a desired footstrike pattern corresponding to the second footwear type exists, and generating an indication to the user upon completion of the athletic activity session, wherein the indication comprises at least one of a number and degree of deviations during the athletic activity, a suggested stretching activity, and a suggested activity report for a subsequent athletic activity. 
     Additional aspects of the invention relate to a non-transitory computer-readable medium including computer-executable instructions configured to cause an electronic device to receive data from a sensor system configured for sensing biomechanical movement of a foot of a user, the sensor system including an electronic module configured for wireless transmission of data generated by the sensor system, and wherein the data is received from the electronic module. The non-transitory computer-readable medium may further include instructions that, when executed, cause the electronic device to detect a footstrike pattern based on analysis of the data, compare the footstrike pattern to a desired footstrike pattern corresponding to a footwear type to determine whether a deviation from the desired footstrike pattern exists, and generate an indication to the user when the deviation from the desired footstrike pattern is determined to exist In some examples, the indication may include a degree of deviation from the desired footstrike pattern. 
     Further aspects of the invention relate to a system for transitioning from a first footwear type to a second footwear type including a sensor system configured to sense a biomechanical movement of a foot of a user and an electronic module configured for wireless transmission of data generated by the sensor system. The system may also include an electronic device in communication with the electronic module. The electronic device is configured for selecting a footwear transition program, each footwear transition program comprising a plurality of desired footstrike patterns corresponding to a preferred footstrike for the second footwear type, receiving data from the electronic module, comparing the data to a footstrike template to determine whether a deviation from the footstrike template exists, wherein the deviation is determined to exist if a degree of deviation from the footstrike template is determined to exceed a predetermined threshold, and generating an indication to the user when a deviation from the desired footstrike pattern is determined to exist. The footstrike template may include a midfoot-strike template or a forefoot-strike template, and the plurality of desired footstrike patterns may transition from a heel-strike pattern to a midfoot-strike pattern or a forefoot-strike pattern. Additionally, the indication may include an indication of the degree of deviation and the indication may include at least one of a visual indication, an audible indication, and a tactile indication. The footstrike templates may vary based on collected user information, and/or may vary after a predetermined amount of usage. The electronic device may further be configured for recording the data and providing a summary of recorded data to the user and/or generating an alert to the user when a number of recorded deviations exceeds a predetermined deviation count threshold. Any of the various aspects described above may be used in connection with this system, and it is understood that the system may be modified for use with different sensor systems and different articles of apparel. 
     Still further aspects of the invention relate to a system for analyzing athletic activity that may be used in connection with an article of apparel including a sensor system with a plurality of sensors engaged with the article of apparel and configured to sense a biomechanical parameter of a user while the user is in biomechanical movement. The system may further include a GPS module configured for detecting the user&#39;s position, and an electronic device in communication with the sensor system, where the GPS module is in communication with the electronic device. The electronic device is configured for receiving data generated by the sensor system, comparing the data to a biomechanical movement template corresponding to the desired biomechanical movement pattern to determine whether a deviation from the biomechanical movement template exists, and generating an indication to the user when the deviation from the desired biomechanical movement pattern is determined to exist. The electronic device is also configured for receiving the user&#39;s position from the GPS module and receiving terrain information related to the user&#39;s position and altering the biomechanical movement template based on the terrain information. 
     Other aspects of the invention relate to a method that involves performing some or all of the functions of the system as described above, including functions performed by the electronic device, the electronic module, or other apparatuses described above. Such a method may be computer-assisted. Aspects of the invention may similarly relate to a tangible and/or non-transitory computer-readable medium containing computer-executable instructions configured to cause an electronic device (or a processor of such a device) to perform some or all of the functions of the system as described above. 
     Still other features and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the following specification taken in conjunction with the following drawings. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       To allow for a more full understanding of the present invention, it will now be described by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: 
         FIG. 1  is a side view of a shoe; 
         FIG. 2  is an opposed side view of the shoe of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 3  is a top perspective view of a sole of a shoe (having a shoe upper removed and a foot contacting member folded aside) incorporating one embodiment of a sensor system that is configured for use in connection with aspects of the present invention; 
         FIG. 4  is a top perspective view of the sole and the sensor system of  FIG. 3 , with a foot contacting member of the shoe removed and an electronic module removed; 
         FIG. 5  is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of an electronic module capable of use with a sensor system, in communication with an external electronic device; 
         FIG. 6  is a top view of an insert of the sensor system of  FIG. 3 , adapted to be positioned within the sole structure of an article of footwear for a user&#39;s right foot; 
         FIG. 7  is a top view of the insert of  FIG. 6  and a similar sensor system adapted for use in the sole structure of an article of footwear for a user&#39;s left foot; 
         FIG. 8  is an exploded perspective view of the insert of  FIG. 6 , showing four different layers; 
         FIG. 9  is a schematic circuit diagram illustrating one embodiment of a circuit formed by the components of the sensor system of  FIG. 3 ; 
         FIG. 10  is a schematic diagram of a pair of shoes, each containing a sensor system, in a mesh communication mode with an external device; 
         FIG. 11  is a schematic diagram of a pair of shoes, each containing a sensor system, in a “daisy chain” communication mode with an external device; 
         FIG. 12  is a schematic diagram of a pair of shoes, each containing a sensor system, in an independent communication mode with an external device; 
         FIG. 13  is a plot showing pressure vs. resistance for one embodiment of a sensor according to aspects of the present invention; 
         FIG. 14A  is a perspective view of one embodiment of a port and a housing for connection to an electronic module, attached to an insert member; 
         FIG. 14B  is a cross-section view of the port and housing of  FIG. 14A ; 
         FIG. 15  is a perspective view of a module according to aspects of the present invention; 
         FIG. 16  is a side view of the module of  FIG. 15 ; 
         FIG. 17  is a front view of an article of apparel in the form of a shirt, incorporating one embodiment of a sensor system that is configured for use in connection with aspects of the present invention; 
         FIG. 18  is a front view of an article of apparel in the form of a legwear, incorporating one embodiment of a sensor system that is configured for use in connection with aspects of the present invention; 
         FIG. 19  is a rear view of the legwear of  FIG. 18 ; 
         FIG. 20  is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of an article of footwear having a sensor system with an electronic module in communication with external electronic devices; 
         FIG. 21  is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of an article of footwear having a sensor system in communication with an external electronic device; 
         FIG. 22  is a perspective view of a sockliner for an article of footwear including another embodiment of a sensor system; 
         FIG. 23A  is a magnified cross-sectional view of a sensor of the sensor system of  FIG. 22 , taken along lines  23 - 23  of  FIG. 22 ; 
         FIG. 23B  is a magnified cross-sectional view of a sensor of another embodiment of a sensor system connected to a sockliner for an article of footwear; 
         FIG. 24  is a flow diagram illustrating one embodiment of a method for analysis of an athletic activity utilizing a template for biomechanical movement; 
         FIG. 25  is a bar graph showing maximum pressure measured for a footstrike using four sensors located in different locations on an article of footwear, with broken lines illustrating one embodiment of a footstrike template; 
         FIG. 26  is a graph showing pressure measured over time for a footstrike using four sensors located in different locations on an article of footwear, with broken lines illustrating another embodiment of a footstrike template; 
         FIG. 27  is a graph showing pressure measured over time for a footstrike using four sensors located in different locations on an article of footwear, with even-length broken lines illustrating the footstrike template of  FIG. 25  and uneven-length broken lines illustrating one embodiment of an intermediate footstrike template; 
         FIG. 28  is a graph showing activation of a binary-type sensor over time for a footstrike using four sensors located in different locations on an article of footwear, with broken lines illustrating another embodiment of a footstrike template; 
         FIG. 29  is a front view of an electronic device with a graphical display showing force or impact of a footstrike; and 
         FIG. 30  is a flow diagram illustrating one embodiment of a method for altering a template for biomechanical movement that is usable in connection with analysis of an athletic activity. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     While this invention is susceptible of embodiment in many different forms, there are shown in the drawings, and will herein be described in detail, preferred embodiments of the invention with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered as an exemplification of the principles of the invention and is not intended to limit the broad aspects of the invention to the embodiments illustrated and described. 
     In general, a system and method are provided for analyzing athletic activity and biomechanical movement in such athletic activity, which may be used in connection with a sensor system for sensing at least one biomechanical parameter. The system and method can also provide coaching feedback to a user based on such analysis. The feedback provided to the user can include an indication that the user&#39;s biomechanical movement is deviating from a desired biomechanical movement pattern, and the system and method may utilize biomechanical movement templates for comparison with biomechanical parameters sensed by the sensor system in order to determine such deviation. A variety of embodiments and features of such a system and method are described below. 
     In one embodiment, the system may be used to provide coaching and/or other feedback to a user to assist the user in developing a specific footstrike pattern while running, walking, or otherwise moving by foot. Such a system may be used in connection with an article of footwear, such as a shoe, which is shown as an example in  FIGS. 1-2  and generally designated with the reference numeral  100 . The footwear  100  can take many different forms, including, for example, various types of athletic footwear. In one exemplary embodiment, the shoe  100  generally includes a force and/or pressure sensor system  12  operably connected to a universal communication port  14 . As described in greater detail below, the sensor system  12  collects performance data relating to a wearer of the shoe  100 . Through connection to the universal communication port  14 , multiple different users can access the performance data for a variety of different uses as described in greater detail below. 
     An article of footwear  100  is depicted in  FIGS. 1-2  as including an upper  120  and a sole structure  130 . For purposes of reference in the following description, footwear  100  may be divided into three general regions: a forefoot region  111 , a midfoot region  112 , and a heel region  113 , as illustrated in  FIG. 1 . Regions  111 - 113  are not intended to demarcate precise areas of footwear  100 . Rather, regions  111 - 113  are intended to represent general areas of footwear  100  that provide a frame of reference during the following discussion. Although regions  111 - 113  apply generally to footwear  100 , references to regions  111 - 113  also may apply specifically to upper  120 , sole structure  130 , or individual components included within and/or formed as part of either upper  120  or sole structure  130 . 
     As further shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , the upper  120  is secured to sole structure  130  and defines a void or chamber for receiving a foot. For purposes of reference, upper  120  includes a lateral side  121 , an opposite medial side  122 , and a vamp or instep area  123 . Lateral side  121  is positioned to extend along a lateral side of the foot (i.e., the outside) and generally passes through each of regions  111 - 113 . Similarly, medial side  122  is positioned to extend along an opposite medial side of the foot (i.e., the inside) and generally passes through each of regions  111 - 113 . Vamp area  123  is positioned between lateral side  121  and medial side  122  to correspond with an upper surface or instep area of the foot. Vamp area  123 , in this illustrated example, includes a throat  124  having a lace  125  or other desired closure mechanism that is utilized in a conventional manner to modify the dimensions of upper  120  relative the foot, thereby adjusting the fit of footwear  100 . Upper  120  also includes an ankle opening  126  that provides the foot with access to the void within upper  120 . A variety of materials may be used for constructing upper  120 , including materials that are conventionally utilized in footwear uppers. Accordingly, upper  120  may be formed from one or more portions of leather, synthetic leather, natural or synthetic textiles, polymer sheets, polymer foams, mesh textiles, felts, non-woven polymers, or rubber materials, for example. The upper  120  may be formed from one or more of these materials wherein the materials or portions thereof are stitched or adhesively bonded together, e.g., in manners that are conventionally known and used in the art. 
     Upper  120  may also include a heel element (not shown) and a toe element (not shown). The heel element, when present, may extend upward and along the interior surface of upper  120  in the heel region  113  to enhance the comfort of footwear  100 . The toe element, when present, may be located in forefoot region  111  and on an exterior surface of upper  120  to provide wear-resistance, protect the wearer&#39;s toes, and assist with positioning of the foot. In some embodiments, one or both of the heel element and the toe element may be absent, or the heel element may be positioned on an exterior surface of the upper  120 , for example. Although the configuration of upper  120  discussed above is suitable for footwear  100 , upper  120  may exhibit the configuration of any desired conventional or non-conventional upper structure without departing from this invention. 
     As shown in  FIG. 3 , the sole structure  130  is secured to a lower surface of upper  120  and may have a generally conventional shape. The sole structure  130  may have a multipiece structure, e.g., one that includes a midsole  131 , an outsole  132 , and a foot contacting member  133 . The foot contacting member  133  is typically a thin, compressible member that may be located within the void in upper  120  and adjacent to a lower surface of the foot (or between the upper  120  and midsole  131 ) to enhance the comfort of footwear  100 . In various embodiments, the foot contacting member  133  may be a sockliner, a strobel, an insole member, a bootie element, a sock, etc. In the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 3-4 , the foot contacting member  133  is an insole member or a sockliner. The term “foot contacting member,” as used herein does not necessarily imply direct contact with the user&#39;s foot, as another element may interfere with direct contact. Rather, the foot contacting member forms a portion of the inner surface of the foot-receiving chamber of an article of footwear. For example, the user may be wearing a sock that interferes with direct contact. As another example, the sensor system  12  may be incorporated into an article of footwear that is designed to slip over a shoe or other article of footwear, such as an external bootie element or shoe cover. In such an article, the upper portion of the sole structure may be considered a foot contacting member, even though it does not directly contact the foot of the user. In some arrangements, an insole or sockliner may be absent, and in other embodiments, the footwear  100  may have a foot contacting member positioned on top of an insole or sockliner. 
     Midsole member  131  may be or include an impact attenuating member, and may include multiple members or elements in some embodiments. For example, the midsole member  131  may be formed of polymer foam material, such as polyurethane, ethylvinylacetate, or other materials (such as phylon, phylite, etc.) that compress to attenuate ground or other contact surface reaction forces during walking, running, jumping, or other activities. In some example structures according to this invention, the polymer foam material may encapsulate or include various elements, such as a fluid-filled bladder or moderator, that enhance the comfort, motion-control, stability, and/or ground or other contact surface reaction force attenuation properties of footwear  100 . In still other example structures, the midsole  131  may include additional elements that compress to attenuate ground or other contact surface reaction forces. For instance, the midsole  131  may include column type elements to aid in cushioning and absorption of forces. 
     Outsole  132  is secured to a lower surface of midsole  131  in this illustrated example footwear structure  100  and is formed of a wear-resistant material, such as rubber or a flexible synthetic material, such as polyurethane, that contacts the ground or other surface during ambulatory or other activities. The material forming outsole  132  may be manufactured of suitable materials and/or textured to impart enhanced traction and slip resistance. The outsole  132  shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2  is shown to include a plurality of incisions or sipes  136  in either or both sides of the outsole  132 , although many other types of outsoles  132  with various types of treads, contours, and other structures may be used in connection with the present invention. It is understood that embodiments of the present invention may be used in connection with other types and configurations of shoes, as well as other types of footwear and sole structures. 
       FIGS. 1-4  illustrate exemplary embodiments of the footwear  100  incorporating a sensor system  12  in accordance with the present invention, and  FIGS. 3-8  illustrate exemplary embodiments of the sensor system  12 . The sensor system  12  may include any of the features or embodiments of the sensor system described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/401,918, which application is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety and made part hereof. The sensor system  12  includes an insert member  37  having a force and/or pressure sensor assembly  13  connected thereto. It is understood that the use of the insert member  37  is one embodiment, and that an article of footwear including a different type of sensor system  12  may be utilized in connection with the athletic analysis system  400  and method  500  described herein. It is also understood that insert  37  may have any number of different configurations, shapes, and structures, and including a different number and/or configuration of sensors  16 , and a different insert structure or peripheral shape. 
     The insert member  37  is configured to be positioned in contact with the sole structure  130  of the footwear  100 , and in one embodiment, the insert member  37  is configured to be positioned underneath the foot contacting member  133  and over the top of the midsole member  131  and in general confronting relation. The sensor assembly  13  includes a plurality of sensors  16 , and a communication or output port  14  in communication with the sensor assembly  13  (e.g., electrically connected via conductors). The port  14  is configured for communicating data received from the sensors  16 , such as to an electronic module (also referred to as an electronic control unit)  22  as described below. The port  14  and/or the module  22  may be configured to communicate with an external device, as also described below. In the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 3-8 , the system  12  has four sensors  16 : a first sensor  16   a  at the big toe (first phalange or hallux) area of the shoe, two sensors  16   b - c  at the forefoot area of the shoe, including a second sensor  16   b  at the first metatarsal head region and a third sensor  16   c  at the fifth metatarsal head region, and a fourth sensor  16   d  at the heel. These areas of the foot typically experience the greatest degree of pressure during movement. Each sensor  16  is configured for detecting a pressure exerted by a user&#39;s foot on the sensor  16 . The sensors communicate with the port  14  through sensor leads  18 , which may be wire leads and/or another electrical conductor or suitable communication medium. For example, in the embodiment of  FIGS. 3-8 , the sensor leads  18  may be an electrically conductive medium that is printed on the insert member  37 , such as a silver-based ink or other metallic ink, such as an ink based on copper and/or tin. The leads  18  may alternately be provided as thin wires in one embodiment. In other embodiments, the leads  18  may be connected to the foot contacting member  133 , the midsole member  131 , or another member of the sole structure  130 . 
     Other embodiments of the sensor system  12  may contain a different number or configuration of sensors  16 , and generally include at least one sensor  16 . For example, in one embodiment, the system  12  includes a much larger number of sensors, and in another embodiment, the system  12  includes two sensors, one in the heel and one in the forefoot of the shoe  100 . As another example, the system  12  may include one or more sensors in other locations on the shoe  100 , such as connected to the upper in one embodiment (not shown), such as to measure cutting/shear force, kick force, etc. In addition, the sensors  16  may communicate with the port  14  in a different manner, including any known type of wired or wireless communication, including Bluetooth and near-field communication. A pair of shoes may be provided with sensor systems  12  in each shoe of the pair, and it is understood that the paired sensor systems may operate synergistically or may operate independently of each other, and that the sensor systems in each shoe may or may not communicate with each other. The communication of the sensor systems  12  is described in greater detail below. It is understood that the sensor system  12  may be provided with computer programs/algorithms to control collection and storage of data (e.g., pressure data from interaction of a user&#39;s foot with the ground or other contact surface), and that these programs/algorithms may be stored in and/or executed by the sensors  16 , the module  22 , and/or the external device  110 . 
     The sensor system  12  can be positioned in several configurations in the sole  130  of the shoe  100 . In the examples shown in  FIGS. 3-4 , the port  14 , the sensors  16 , and the leads  18  can be positioned between the midsole  131  and the foot contacting member  133 , such as by positioning the insert member  37  between the midsole  131  and the foot contacting member  133 . The insert member  37  may be connected to one or both of the midsole and the foot contacting member  133  in one embodiment. A cavity or well  135  can be located in the midsole  131  and/or in the foot contacting member  133  for receiving the electronic module  22 , as described below, and the port  14  may be accessible from within the well  135  in one embodiment. The well  135  may further contain a housing  24  for the module  22 , and the housing  24  may be configured for connection to the port  14 , such as by providing physical space for the port  14  and/or by providing hardware for interconnection between the port  14  and the module  22 . In the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 3-4 , the well  135  is formed by a cavity in the upper major surface of the midsole  131 . As shown in  FIGS. 3-4 , the sole structure  130  may include a compressible sole member  138  that has a hole formed therein to receive the housing  24 , which provides access to the well  135  and/or may be considered a portion of the well  135 . The insert  37  can be placed on top of the compressible sole member  138  to place the housing  24  in the well  135 . The compressible sole member  138  may confront the midsole  131  in one embodiment, and may be in direct contact with the midsole  131 . It is understood that the compressible sole member  138  may confront the midsole  131  with one or more additional structures positioned between the compressible sole member  138  and the midsole  131 , such as a strobel member. In the embodiment of  FIGS. 3-4 , the compressible sole member  138  is in the form of a foam member  138  (e.g. an EVA member) located between the foot contacting member  133  and the midsole  131 , which may be considered a lower insole/sockliner in this embodiment. The foam member  138  may be bonded to a strobel (not shown) of the midsole  131  in one embodiment, such as by use of an adhesive, and may cover any stitching on the strobel, which can prevent abrasion of the insert  37  by the stitching. 
     In the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 3-4 , the housing  24  has a plurality of walls, including side walls  25  and a base wall  26 , and also includes a flange or lip  28  that extends outward from the tops of the side walls  25  and is configured for connection to the insert  37 . In one embodiment, the flange  28  is a separate member that connects to a tub  29  to form the housing  24 , via pegs (not shown) that connect through holes  28 B ( FIG. 6 ) in the insert  37  located at the front end of the hole  27 . The pegs may be connected via ultrasonic welding or other technique, and may be received in receivers in one embodiment. In an alternate embodiment, an article of footwear  100  may be manufactured with the tub  29  formed in the sole structure  130 , and the flange  28  may be later connected, such as by a snap connection, optionally after other portions of the port have also been assembled. The housing  24  may include retaining structure to retain the module  22  within the housing  24 , and such retaining structure may be complementary with retaining structure on the module  22 , such as a tab/flange and slot arrangement, complementary tabs, locking members, friction-fit members, etc. The housing  24  also includes a finger recess  29 A located in the flange  28  and/or the tub  29 , which provides room for the user&#39;s finger to engage the module  22  to remove the module  22  from the housing  24 . The flange  28  provides a wide base engaging the top of the insert  37 , which spreads out the forces exerted on the insert  37  and/or on the foot contacting member  133  by the flange  28 , which creates less likelihood of severe deflection and/or damage of such components. The rounded corners on the flange  28  also assists in avoiding damage to the insert  37  and/or the foot contacting member  133 . It is understood that the flange  28  may have a different shape and/or contour in other embodiments, and may provide similar functionality with different shapes and/or contours. 
     The foot contacting member  133  is configured to be placed on top of the foam member  138  to cover the insert  37 , and may contain an indent  134  in its lower major surface to provide space for the housing  24 , as shown in  FIG. 3 . The foot contacting member  133  may be adhered to the foam member  138 , and in one embodiment, may be adhered only in the forefoot region to permit the foot contacting member  133  to be pulled up to access the module  22 , as shown in  FIG. 3 . Additionally, the foot contacting member  133  may include a tacky or high-friction material (not shown) located on at least a portion of the underside to resist slippage against the insert  37  and/or the foam member  138 , such as a silicone material. For example, in an embodiment where the foot contacting member  133  is adhered in the forefoot region and free in the heel region (e.g.  FIG. 3 ), the foot contacting member  133  may have the tacky material located on the heel region. The tacky material may also provide enhanced sealing to resist penetration of dirt into the sensor system. In another embodiment, the foot contacting member  133  may include a door or hatch (not shown) configured to be located over the port  14  and sized to permit insertion and/or removal of the module  22  through the foot contacting member  133 , which door or hatch may be opened in various manners, such as swinging on a hinge or removal of a plug-like element. In one embodiment, the foot contacting member  133  may also have graphic indicia (not shown) thereon, as described below. 
     In one embodiment, as shown in  FIGS. 3-4 , the foam member  138  may also include a recess  139  having the same peripheral shape as the insert  37  to receive the insert  37  therein, and the bottom layer  69  ( FIG. 8 ) of the insert member  37  may include adhesive backing to retain the insert  37  within the recess  139 . In one embodiment, a relatively strong adhesive, such as a quick bonding acrylic adhesive, may be utilized for this purpose. The insert  37  has a hole or space  27  for receiving and providing room for the housing  24 , and the foam member  138  in this embodiment may also allow the housing  24  to pass completely through into and/or through at least a portion of the strobel and/or the midsole  131 . In the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 3-4 , the foot contacting member  133  may have a thickness that is reduced relative to a typical foot contacting member  133  (e.g. sockliner), with the thickness of the foam member  138  being substantially equal to the reduction in thickness of the foot contacting member  133 , to provide equivalent cushioning. In one embodiment, the foot contacting member  133  may be a sockliner with a thickness of about 2-3 mm, and the foam member  138  may have a thickness of about 2 mm, with the recess  139  having a depth of about 1 mm. The foam member  138  may be adhesively connected to the insert member  37  prior to connecting the foam member  138  to the article of footwear  100  in one embodiment. This configuration permits the adhesive between the foam member  138  and the insert  37  to set in a flat condition before attaching the foam member to the strobel or other portion of the footwear  100 , which is typically bends or curves the foam member  138  and may otherwise cause delamination. The foam member  138  with the insert  37  adhesively attached may be provided in this configuration as a single product for insertion into an article of footwear  100  in one embodiment. The positioning of the port  14  in  FIGS. 3-4  not only presents minimal contact, irritation, or other interference with the user&#39;s foot, but also provides easy accessibility by simply lifting the foot contacting member  133 . 
     In the embodiment of  FIGS. 3-4 , the housing  24  extends completely through the insert  37  and the foam member  138 , and the well  135  may also extend completely through the strobel and partially into the midsole  131  of the footwear  100  to receive the housing  24 . In another embodiment, the well  135  may be differently configured, and may be positioned completely underneath the strobel in one embodiment, with a window through the strobel to permit access to the module  22  in the well  135 . The well  135  may be formed using a variety of techniques, including cutting or removing material from the strobel and/or the midsole  131 , forming the strobel and/or the midsole  131  with the well contained therein, or other techniques or combinations of such techniques. The housing  24  may fit closely with the walls of the well  135 , which can be advantageous, as gaps between the housing  24  and the well  135  may be sources of material failure. The process of removing the piece  135  may be automated using appropriate computer control equipment. 
     The well  135  may be located elsewhere in the sole structure  130  in further embodiments. For example, the well  135  may be located in the upper major surface of the foot contacting member  133  and the insert  37  can be placed on top of the foot contacting member  133 . As another example, the well  135  may be located in the lower major surface of the foot contacting member  133 , with the insert  37  located between the foot contacting member  133  and the midsole  131 . As a further example, the well  135  may be located in the outsole  132  and may be accessible from outside the shoe  100 , such as through an opening in the side, bottom, or heel of the sole  130 . In the configurations illustrated in  FIGS. 3-4 , the port  14  is easily accessible for connection or disconnection of an electronic module  22 , as described below. In another embodiment, the foot contacting member  133  may have the insert  37  connected to the bottom surface, and the port  14  and the well  135  may be formed in the sole structure  130 . The interface  20  is positioned on the side of the housing  24  as similarly shown with respect to other embodiments, although it is understood that the interface  20  could be positioned elsewhere, such as for engagement through the top of the module  22 . The module  22  may be altered to accommodate such a change. Other configurations and arrangements of the housing  24 , the insert  37 , the module  22 , and/or the interface may be utilized in further embodiments. 
     In other embodiments, the sensor system  12  can be positioned differently. For example, in one embodiment, the insert  37  can be positioned within the outsole  132 , midsole  131 , or foot contacting member  133 . In one exemplary embodiment, insert  37  may be positioned within a foot contacting member  133  positioned above an insole member, such as a sock, sockliner, interior footwear bootie, or other similar article, or may be positioned between the foot contacting member  133  and the insole member. Still other configurations are possible. As discussed, it is understood that the sensor system  12  may be included in each shoe in a pair. 
     The insert member  37  in the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 3-8  is formed of multiple layers, including at least a first layer  66  and a second layer  68 . The first and second layers  66 ,  68  may be formed of a flexible film material, such as a Mylar® or other PET (polyethylene terephthalate) film, or another polymer film, such as polyamide. In one embodiment, the first and second layers  66 ,  68  may each be PET films having thicknesses of 0.05-0.2 mm, such as a thickness of 125 μm. Additionally, in one embodiment, each of the first and second layers  66 ,  68  has a minimum bend radius of equal to or less than 2 mm. The insert  37  may further include a spacer layer  67  positioned between the first and second layers  66 ,  68  and/or a bottom layer  69  positioned on the bottom of the insert  37  below the second layer  68 , which are included in the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 3-8 . The layers  66 ,  67 ,  68 ,  69  of the insert  37  are stacked on top of each other and in confronting relation to each other, and in one embodiment, the layers  66 ,  67 ,  68 ,  69  all have similar or identical peripheral shapes and are superimposed on one another ( FIG. 9 ). In one embodiment, the spacer layer  67  and the bottom layer  69  may each have a thickness of 89-111 μm, such as a thickness of 100 μm. The entire thickness of the insert member  37  may be about 450 μm in one embodiment, or about 428-472 μm in another embodiment, and about 278-622 μm in a further embodiment. The insert  37  may also include additional adhesive that is 100-225 μm thick, and may further include one or more selective reinforcement layers, such as additional PET layers, in other embodiments. Additionally, in one embodiment, the entire four-layer insert as described above has a minimum bend radius of equal to or less than 5 mm. It is understood that the orientations of the first and second layers  66 ,  68  may be reversed in another embodiment, such as by placing the second layer  68  as the top layer and the first layer  66  below the second layer  68 . In the embodiment of  FIGS. 3-8 , the first and second layers  66 ,  68  have various circuitry and other components printed thereon, including the sensors  16 , the leads  18 , resistors  53 ,  54 , a pathway  50 , dielectric patches  80 , and other components, which are described in greater detail below. The components are printed on the underside of the first layer  66  and on the upper side of the second layer  68  in the embodiment of  FIGS. 3-8 , however in other embodiments, at least some components may be printed on the opposite sides of the first and second layers  66 ,  68 . It is understood that components located on the first layer  66  and/or the second layer  68  may be moved/transposed to the other layer  66 ,  68 . 
     The layers  66 ,  67 ,  68 ,  69  can be connected together by an adhesive or other bonding material in one embodiment. The spacer layer  67  may contain adhesive on one or both surfaces in one embodiment to connect to the first and second layers  66 ,  68 . The bottom layer  69  may likewise have adhesive on one or both surfaces, to connect to the second layer  68  as well as to the article of footwear  100 . The first or second layers  66 ,  68  may additionally or alternately have adhesive surfaces for this purpose. A variety of other techniques can be used for connecting the layers  66 ,  67 ,  68 ,  69  in other embodiments, such as heat sealing, spot welding, or other known techniques. 
     In the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 3-8 , the sensors  16  are force and/or pressure sensors for measuring pressure and/or force on the sole  130 . The sensors  16  have a resistance that decreases as pressure on the sensor  16  increases, such that measurement of the resistance through the port  14  can be performed to detect the pressure on the sensor  16 . The sensors  16  in the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 3-8  are elliptical or obround in shape, which enables a single sensor size to be utilized in several different shoe sizes. The sensors  16  in this embodiment each include two contacts  40 ,  42 , including a first contact  40  positioned on the first layer  66  and a second contact  42  positioned on the second layer  68 . It is understood that the figures illustrating the first layer  66  herein are top views, and that the electronic structures (including the contacts  40 , the leads  18 , etc.) are positioned on the bottom side of the first layer  66  and viewed through a transparent or translucent first layer  66  unless specifically noted otherwise. The contacts  40 ,  42  are positioned opposite each other and are in superimposed relation to each other, so that pressure on the insert member  37 , such as by the user&#39;s foot, causes increased engagement between the contacts  40 ,  42 . The resistance of the sensor  16  decreases as the engagement between the contacts  40 ,  42  increases, and the module  22  is configured to detect pressure based on changes in resistance of the sensors  16 . In one embodiment, the contacts  40 ,  42  may be formed by conductive patches that are printed on the first and second layers  66 ,  68 , such as in the embodiment of  FIGS. 3-8 , and the two contacts  40 ,  42  may be formed of the same or different materials. Additionally, in one embodiment, the leads  18  are formed of a material that has a higher conductivity and lower resistivity than the material(s) of the sensor contacts  40 ,  42 . For example, the patches may be formed of carbon black or another conductive carbon material. Further, in one embodiment, the two contacts  40 ,  42  may be formed of the same material or two materials with similar hardnesses, which can reduce abrasion and wear due to differences in hardness of the materials in contact with each other. In this embodiment, the first contacts  40  are printed on the underside of the first layer  66 , and the second contacts  42  are printed on the top side of the second layer  68 , to permit engagement between the contacts  40 ,  42 . The embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 3-8  includes the spacer layer  67 , which has holes  43  positioned at each sensor  16  to permit engagement of the contacts  40 ,  42  through the spacer layer  67 , while insulating other portions of the first and second layers  66 ,  68  from each other. In one embodiment, each hole  43  is aligned with one of the sensors  16  and permits at least partial engagement between the contacts  40 ,  42  of the respective sensor  16 . In the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 3-8 , the holes  43  are smaller in area than the sensor contacts  40 ,  42 , allowing the central portions of the contacts  40 ,  42  to engage each other, while insulating outer portions of the contacts  40 ,  42  and the distribution leads  18 A from each other (See, e.g.,  FIG. 8 ). In another embodiment, the holes  43  may be sized to permit engagement between the contacts  40 ,  42  over their entire surfaces. It is understood that the size, dimensions, contours, and structure of the sensors  16  and the contacts  40 ,  42  may be altered in other embodiments while retaining similar functionality. It is also understood that sensors  16  having the same sizes may be utilized in different sizes of inserts  37  for different shoe sizes, in which case the dimensions of the sensors  16  relative to the overall dimensions of the insert  37  may be different for different insert  37  sizes. In other embodiments, the sensor system  12  may have sensors  16  that are differently configured than the sensors  16  of the embodiment of  FIGS. 3-8 . In a further example, the sensors  16  may utilize a different configuration that does not include carbon-based or similar contacts  40 ,  42  and/or may not function as a resistive sensor  16 . Examples of such sensors include a capacitive pressure sensor or a strain gauge pressure sensor, among other examples. 
     As further shown in  FIGS. 3-8 , in one embodiment, the insert  37  may include an internal airflow system  70  configured to allow airflow through the insert  37  during compression and/or flexing of the insert  37 .  FIG. 8  illustrates the components of the airflow system  70  in greater detail. The airflow system  70  may include one or more air passages or channels  71  that lead from the sensors  16  to one or more vents  72 , to allow air to flow from the sensor  16  during compression, between the first and second layers  66 ,  68  and outward through the vent(s)  72  to the exterior of the insert  37 . The airflow system  70  resists excessive pressure buildup during compression of the sensors  16 , and also permits consistent separation of the contacts  40 ,  42  of the sensors  16  at various air pressures and altitudes, leading to more consistent performance. The channels  71  may be formed between the first and second layers  66 ,  68 . As shown in  FIG. 8 , the spacer layer  67  has the channels  71  formed therein, and the air can flow through these channels  71  between the first and second layers  66 ,  68 , to the appropriate vent(s)  72 . The vents  72  may have filters (not shown) covering them in one embodiment. These filters may be configured to permit air, moisture, and debris to pass out of the vents  72  and resist moisture and debris passage into the vents  72 . In another embodiment, the insert  37  may not contain a spacer layer, and the channels  71  may be formed by not sealing the layers  66 ,  68  together in a specific pattern, such as by application of a non-sealable material. Thus, the airflow system  70  may be considered to be integral with or directly defined by the layers  66 ,  68  in such an embodiment. In other embodiments, the airflow system  70  may contain a different number or configuration of air channels  71 , vents  72 , and/or other passages. 
     In the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 3-8 , the airflow system  70  includes two vents  72  and a plurality of air channels  71  connecting each of the four sensors  16  to one of the vents  72 . The spacer layer  67  includes holes  43  at each sensor in this embodiment, and the channels  71  are connected to the holes  43  to permit air to flow away from the sensor  16  through the channel  71 . Additionally, in this embodiment, two of the sensors  16  are connected to each of the vents  72  through channels  71 . For example, as illustrated in  FIGS. 4 and 8  the first metatarsal sensor  16   b  has a channel  71  that extends to a vent  72  slightly behind the first metatarsal area of the insert  37 , and the first phalangeal sensor  16   a  has a channel  71  that also extends to the same vent  72 , via a passageway that includes traveling through the first metatarsal sensor  16   b . In other words, the first phalangeal sensor  16   a  has a channel  71  that extends from the hole  43  at the first phalangeal sensor  16   a  to the hole  43  at the first metatarsal sensor  16   b , and another channel  71  extends from the first metatarsal sensor  16   b  to the vent  72 . The fifth metatarsal sensor  16   c  and the heel sensor  16   d  also share a common vent  72 , located in the heel portion of the insert  37 . One channel  71  extends rearward from the hole  43  at the fifth metatarsal sensor  16   c  to the vent  72 , and another channel  71  extends forward from the hole  43  at the heel sensor  16   d  to the vent  72 . Sharing the vents  72  among multiple sensors can decrease expense, particularly by avoiding the need for additional filters  73 . In other embodiments, the airflow system  70  may have a different configuration. For example, each sensor  16  may have its own individual vent  72 , or more than two sensors  16  may share the same vent  72 , in various embodiments. 
     Each vent  72  is formed as an opening in a bottom side of the second layer  68  (i.e. opposite the first layer  66 ), such that the opening permits outward flow of air, moisture, and/or debris from the airflow system  70 , as seen in  FIG. 9 . In another embodiment, the vent  72  may include multiple openings. In a further embodiment, the vent  72  may additionally or alternately be formed by an opening in the first layer  66 , causing the air to vent upwards out of the insert  37 . In an additional embodiment, the vent  72  may be on the side (thin edge) of the insert  37 , such as by extending the channel  71  to the edge, such that the channel  71  opens through the edge to the exterior of the insert  37 . The venting of the air downward, as in the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 3-8 , makes it more difficult for debris to enter the vent  72 . The bottom layer  69 , if present, also includes apertures  74  located below the vents  72 , to permit the air flowing out of the vents  72  to pass through the bottom layer  69 . The apertures  74  are significantly larger than the vents  72 , in order to allow filters to be adhesively attached to the second layer  68  through the bottom layer  69  around the periphery of each vent  72 , as described below. Additionally, in this embodiment, each vent  72  has a reinforcement material  75  positioned around the vent  72 , to add stability and strength to the material and prevent breaking/tearing. In the embodiment illustrated, the reinforcement material  75  is formed of the same material as the leads  18  (e.g. silver or other metallic ink) to facilitate printing, but may also be formed of the same material as the sensor contacts  40 ,  42  (e.g. carbon) or the dielectric material discussed herein. 
     The vents  72  in the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 3-8  open downward and the air passing through the vents  72  passes downward toward the midsole  131  and toward the foam member  138  if present. In the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 3-4 , the foam member  138  has cavities  76  located directly below the vents  72  and configured such that the air exiting the vents passes into the respective cavity  76 . Such cavities  76  may be formed as a slot that extends completely or partially through the foam member  138 . This configuration allows air to pass out of the vents  72  without obstruction from the foam member  138 . In the embodiment of  FIGS. 3-4 , each of the cavities  76  has a channel portion  77  extending laterally away from the cavity  76  and beyond the peripheral boundary of the insert  37 . In other words, the channel portion  77  of the cavity  76  extends laterally from the vent  72  to a distal end  78  located outside the peripheral boundary of the insert  37 . It is understood that if the foam member  138  has a recess  139  to receive the insert member  37 , the distal end  78  of the channel portion  77  of the cavity  76  may also be located outside the peripheral boundary of the recess  139 , as in the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 3-4 . This configuration permits air passing into the cavity  76  to exit the sole structure  130  by passing laterally through the channel portion  77  and then upward and/or outward away from the foam member  138 . In another embodiment, the distal end  78  may stop at a point within the foam member  138  and still outside the peripheral boundary of the insert  37 , which allows the air to vent upward out of the cavity  76  at the distal end  78  and provides the same or similar functionality. As stated above, the components of the airflow system  70  may be configured different in other embodiments. 
     Additionally, the foot contacting member  133  includes one or more passages  79  extending through the foot contacting member  133  located at the distal end  78  of the cavity  76 , in the embodiment of  FIGS. 3-8 . The passages  79  may be pinhole-type passages  79  that extend vertically through the foot contacting member  133 . In another embodiment, a different type of passage  79  may be used, including slits or grooves, and at least one passage  79  may extend laterally to a side of the foot contacting member  133 , rather than upward through the thickness of the foot contacting member  133 . The passages  79  allow the air exiting through the vent  72  and outward through the cavity  76  to pass through the foot contacting member  133  and out of the sole structure  130 . In another embodiment, the foot contacting member  133  may not include any passage(s)  79 . The foot contacting member  133  may still provide ventilation in a configuration without any passage(s)  79 , such as by using a breathable foam or other breathable material for constructing the foot contacting member  133 . 
     In the embodiment of  FIGS. 3-8 , as described above, the spacer layer  67  generally insulates conductive members/components on the first and second layers  66 ,  68  from each other, except in areas where electrical contact is desired, such as at the pathway  50  and between the contacts  40 ,  42  of the sensors  16 . The spacer layer  67  has holes  38 ,  43  to define areas of desired electrical contact between the layers  66 ,  68 . The components of the airflow system  70 , in particular the channels  71  may provide a route for shorting or other undesired electrical contact by one or more conductive members between the first and second layers  66 ,  68 . In one embodiment, the sensor system  12  may include one or more patches of dielectric material  80  to resist or prevent undesired shorting by one or more conductive members across open areas of the spacer layer  67 , such as the channels  71 . This dielectric material  80  may be in the form of an acrylic ink or other UV-curable ink, or another insulating material suitable for the application. In the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 3-8 , the insert  37  has several patches of dielectric material  80  extending across the channel  71 , to insulate the distribution leads  18 A located around the sensor contacts  40 ,  42  from each other. 
     In the embodiment of  FIGS. 3-8 , the port  14 , the sensors  16 , and the leads  18  form a circuit  10  on the insert member  37 . The port  14  has a plurality of terminals  11 , with four terminals  11  each dedicated to one of the four sensors  16  individually, one terminal  11  for applying a voltage to the circuit  10 , and one terminal  1  for voltage measurement. In this embodiment, the sensor system  12  also includes a pair of resistors  53 ,  54 , each located on one of the layers  66 ,  68 , and a pathway  50  connecting the circuitry on the first layer  66  with the circuitry on the second layer  68 . The resistors  53 ,  54  provide a reference point for the module  22  to measure the resistance of each sensor  16 , and permit the module  22  to convert the variable current from the active sensor  16  into a measurable voltage. Additionally, the resistors  53 ,  54  are arranged in parallel within the circuit  10 , which compensates for variations in the circuit  10  and/or variations in the manufacturing processes used to create the resistors  53 ,  54 , such as variations in conductivity of the inks used to print the leads  18  and/or the sensor contacts  40 ,  42 . In one embodiment, the equivalent resistance of the two resistors  53 ,  54  is 1500+/−500 kΩ. In another embodiment, a single resistor  53 ,  54  or two resistors  53 ,  54  in series could be used. In a further embodiment, the resistors  53 ,  54  may be positioned elsewhere on the insert  37 , or may be located within the circuitry of the module  22 . A more technical depiction of the circuit  10  of this embodiment is described below and shown in  FIG. 9 . 
       FIG. 9  illustrates a circuit  10  that may be used to detect and measure pressure in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The circuit  10  includes six terminals  104   a - 104   f , including a power terminal  104   a  for applying a voltage to the circuit  10 , a measurement terminal  104   b  for measuring a voltage as described below, and four sensor terminals  104   c - 104   f , each of which is dedicated to one of the sensors  16   a - 16   d  individually, and each of which represents ground in this embodiment. The terminals  104   a - 104   f  represent the terminals  11  of the port  14 . In the embodiment shown, fixed resistors  102   a  and  102   b , which represent resistors  53  and  54 , are connected in parallel. Fixed resistors  102   a  and  102   b  may be physically located on separate layers. The equivalent resistance across terminals  104   a  and  104   b  is determined by the well-known equation of:
 
 R   eq   =R   102a   ·R   102b /( R   102a   +R   102b )  (Equation 1)
 
     Where:
         R 102a =Resistance of fixed resistors  102   a      R 102b =Resistance of fixed resistors  102   b      R eq =Equivalent resistance       

     Electrically connecting fixed resistors  102   a  and  102   b  in parallel compensates for variations in the manufacturing processes used to create fixed resistors  102   a  and  102   b . For example, if fixed resistor  102   a  has a resistance that deviates from a desired resistance, the deviation of the equivalent resistance determined by equation 1 is minimized by the averaging effect of fixed resistor  102   b . One skilled in the art will appreciate that two fixed resistors are shown for illustration purposes only. Additional fixed resistors may be connected in parallel and each fixed resistor may be formed on a different layer. 
     In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 9 , fixed resistors  102   a  and  102   b  are connected to sensors  16   a - 16   d . Sensors  16   a - 16   d  may be implemented with variable resistors that change resistance in response to changes in pressure, as described above. Each of sensors  16   a - 16   d  may be implemented with multiple variable resistors. In one embodiment, each of sensors  16   a - 16   d  is implemented with two variable resistors which are physically located on different layers and electrically connected in parallel. For example, as described above with respect to one embodiment, each sensor  16   a - 16   d  may contain two contacts  40 ,  42  that engage each other to a greater degree as applied pressure increases, and the resistance of the sensor  16   a - 16   d  may decrease as the engagement increases. As mentioned above, connecting resistors in parallel creates an equivalent resistance that minimizes deviations created during manufacturing processes. In another embodiment, the contacts  40 ,  42  may be arranged in series. Sensors  16   a - 16   d  may be connected to ground via switches  108   a - 108   d . Switches  108   a - 108   d  may be closed one at a time to connect a sensor. In some embodiments, switches  108   a - 108   d  are implemented with transistors or integrated circuits. 
     In operation a voltage level, such as 3 volts, is applied at terminal  104   a . Switches  108   a - 108   d  are closed one at a time to connect one of sensors  16   a - 16   d  to ground. When connected to ground, each of sensors  16   a - 16   d  forms a voltage divider with the combination of fixed resistors  102   a  and  102   b . For example, when switch  108   a  is closed, the voltage between terminal  104   a  and ground is divided between the combination of fixed resistors  102   a  and  102   b  and sensor  16   a . The voltage measured at terminal  104   b  changes as the resistance of sensor  16   a  changes. As a result, pressure applied to sensor  16   a  may be measured as a voltage level at terminal  104   b . The resistance of the sensor  16   a  is measured utilizing the voltage applied to the sensor  16   a  in series with the combined fixed resistors  104   a  and  104   b  of known value. Similarly, selectively closing switches  108   b - 108   d  will generate voltage levels at terminal  104   b  that are related to the pressure applied at sensors  16   b - 16   d . It is understood that the connections between the sensors  16   a - d  and the terminals  104   c - f  may be different in other embodiments. For example, the sensors  16   a - d  are connected to different pins of the interface  20  in the left shoe insert  37  as compared to the right shoe insert  37 , as shown in  FIG. 8 . In another embodiment, the voltage level may be applied in the opposite manner, with the ground located at terminal  104   a  and the voltage applied at terminals  104   c - f . In further embodiments, another circuit configuration may be used to achieve a similar result and functionality. 
     As can be seen in  FIG. 8 , the two resistors  53 ,  54  have similar or identical structures in the embodiment illustrated, however it is understood that the resistors may have different structures in other embodiments. Each resistor  53 ,  54  has two sections  55 ,  56  spaced from each other and a bridge  57  positioned between and connecting the sections  55 ,  56 . In one embodiment, the bridge  57  may be formed of a more resistive material than the sections  55 ,  56 , and may thus provide the majority of the resistance of each resistor  53 ,  54 . The sections  55 ,  56  may be at least partially formed of a high-conductivity material, such as a silver material. In the embodiment illustrated—in  FIGS. 3-9 , the inner and outer sections  55 ,  56  are formed of the same material as the leads  18 , such as a printed silver-based or other metallic-based ink. In this embodiment, the bridge  57  is formed of the same material as the sensor contacts  40 ,  42 , such as carbon black or another conductive carbon material. It is understood that the inner and outer sections  55 ,  56  and/or the bridge  57  may be formed of different materials in other embodiments. 
     The pathway  50  generally permits continuous and/or uninterrupted electrical communication and passes electronic signals between the first and second layers  66 ,  68 . In the embodiment of  FIGS. 3-8 , the port  14  is directly connected to the second layer  68 , and the pathway  50  may serve as a vertical path between the port  14  and the sensor contacts  40  on the first layer  66 ,  68 . In this embodiment, the pathway  50  includes conductive portions  51  on the first layer  66  and the second layer  68 , such that conductive portions  51  may be in continuous engagement with each other to provide continuous electrical communication between the first and second layers  66 ,  68 . The spacer layer  67  in this embodiment includes a hole  38  that is aligned with the pathway  50  and allows for continuous engagement between the conductive portions  51  through the spacer layer  67 . Additionally, in the embodiment of  FIGS. 3-5 , each of the conductive portions  51  is divided into two sections  52  that are separated by an elongated gap  59 . The gap  59  may be oriented to increase the durability of the pathway  50  during flexing of the insert  37 , by serving as a flexing point to minimize bending of the conductive portions  51 . The conductive portions  51  of the pathway  50  are formed of a conductive material, and in one embodiment, the conductive portions  51  may be formed of the same material as the leads  18 , such as a silver-based ink or other metallic ink. In other embodiments, the pathway  50 , and the components thereof described herein, may have a different size, shape, form, or location, and may be formed of a different material. Additionally, the pathway  50  may be at least partially surrounded by or bounded by a stiffening structure  60  in one embodiment to provide structural support and/or effects, such as assisting with engagement between the conductive portions  51 . As illustrated in  FIGS. 3-8 , the conductive portions  51  are surrounded by a substantially annular stiffener  60 . The stiffener  60  may be formed of any material that has suitable stiffness, and in one embodiment, may be formed of a material with greater stiffness than the material of the conductive portions  51 , such as carbon black or other carbon-based material. Further, the hole  38  in the spacer layer  67  permits the conductive portions  51  to engage each other. 
     The insert  37  may be constructed by depositing the various components on a polymer (e.g. PET) film. In one embodiment, the insert  37  is constructed by first depositing the conductive metallic material on each layer  66 ,  68 , such as by printing in the traced pattern of the leads  18  (including the distribution lead  18 A, the conductive portions  51  of the pathway  50 , the inner and outer sections  55 ,  56  of the resistors  53 ,  54 , etc. The additional carbon material can then be deposited on each layer  66 ,  68 , such as by printing, to form the contacts  40 ,  42 , the stiffener  60  of the pathway  50 , the bridge  57  of the resistors  53 ,  54 , etc. Any additional components can then be deposited, such as any dielectric portions. The layers  66 ,  68  may be printed on PET sheets and then cut out to form the outer peripheral shape after printing in one embodiment. 
     The port  14  is configured for communication of data collected by the sensors  16  to an outside source, in one or more known manners. In one embodiment, the port  14  is a universal communication port, configured for communication of data in a universally readable format. In the embodiments shown in  FIGS. 3-8 and 14 , the port  14  includes an interface  20  for connection to an electronic module  22 , shown in connection with the port  14  in  FIG. 3 . Additionally, in this embodiment, the port  14  is associated with the housing  24  for insertion of the electronic module  22 , located in the well  135  in the middle arch or midfoot region of the midsole  131 . As illustrated in  FIGS. 3-8 , the sensor leads  18  converge together to form a consolidated interface  20  at their terminals  11 , in order to connect to the port  14 . In one embodiment, the consolidated interface may include individual connection of the sensor leads  18  to the port interface  20 , such as through a plurality of electrical contacts. In another embodiment, the sensor leads  18  could be consolidated to form an external interface, such as a plug-type interface or another configuration, and in a further embodiment, the sensor leads  18  may form a non-consolidated interface, with each lead  18  having its own separate terminal  11 . As also described below, the module  22  may have an interface  23  for connection to the port interface  20  and/or the sensor leads  18 . 
     In the embodiments shown in  FIGS. 3-8 and 14 , the interface  20  takes the form of electrical contacts or terminals  11 . In one embodiment, the terminals  11  are formed on a tongue or extension  21  that extends from one of the layers  66 ,  68  into the hole  27  provided for the housing  24 . The extension consolidates the ends of the leads  18  to a single area to form the interface  20 . In the embodiment of  FIGS. 3-8 and 14 , the extension  21  extends from the second layer  68  into the hole  27 , and is bent downward within the housing  24  to place the terminals  11  within the housing  24  and make the interface  20  accessible within the housing  24 . The extension  21  may pass underneath the flange  28  of the housing  24  and through a slot or other space underneath the lip  28  in order to extend into the housing  24 . In the configuration illustrated in  FIGS. 3-8 and 14 , the extension  21  bends downwardly into the well  135  and into the housing  24 , as discussed above, to place the terminals  11  within the housing  24  and forming the interface  20  within the housing  24 . 
     The housing  24  may contain connection structure, such as connector pins or springs for establishing connection between the interface  20  and the module  22 , as shown in  FIGS. 14A-B . In one embodiment, the port  14  includes an electrical connector  82  forming the interface  20 , which may include contacts that individually attach to the terminals  11 , as mentioned above. The connector  82  may connect to the extension  21  and the terminals  11  via a crimping connection. The interface  20  in this embodiment includes seven terminals: four terminals  11  each individually connected to one of the sensors  16 , one terminal  11  serving as the measurement terminal ( 104   b  in  FIG. 9 ), and one terminal serving as a power terminal ( 104   a  in  FIG. 9 ) to apply a voltage to the circuit  10 . As discussed above, the power terminal may instead be configured as a ground terminal in another embodiment, with the sensor terminals ( 104   c - f  in  FIG. 9 ) being configured as power terminals. The seventh terminal may be utilized for powering of accessories, such as a unique identification chip. In one embodiment, the sixth and seventh terminals  11  are extended on a tail  21 A that extends from the end of the extension  21 . An accessory may be connected across the two terminals  11  on the tail  21 A to power the accessory. The accessory may include a small printed circuit board (PCB) with a memory chip that are attached via anisotropic contact formation to the tail  21 A. In one embodiment, an accessory chip may include information uniquely identifying the article of footwear  100 , such as a serial number, as well as substantive information such as whether the footwear  100  is a left or right shoe, a men&#39;s or women&#39;s shoe, a specific type of shoe (e.g. running, tennis, basketball, etc.), and other types of information. This information may be read by the module  22  and subsequently used in analysis, presentation, and/or organization of data from the sensors. The accessory may be sealed into the housing  24 , such as via epoxy or other material. 
     The port  14  is adapted for connection to a variety of different electronic modules  22 , which may be as simple as a memory component (e.g., a flash drive) or which may contain more complex features. It is understood that the module  22  could be as complex a component as a personal computer, mobile device, server, etc. The port  14  is configured for transmitting data gathered by the sensors  16  to the module  22  for storage, transmission, and/or processing. In some embodiments, the port  14 , the sensors  16 , and/or other components of the sensor system  12  may be configured for processing the data. The port  14 , sensors  16 , and/or other components of the sensor system  12  may additionally or alternately be configured for transmission of data directly to an external device  110  or a plurality of modules  22  and/or external devices  110 . It is understood that the port  14 , the sensors  16 , and/or other components of the sensor system  12  may include appropriate hardware, software, etc., for these purposes. Examples of a housing and electronic modules in a footwear article are illustrated in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/416,458, published as U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2007/0260421, which is incorporated by reference herein and made part hereof. Although the port  14  is illustrated with electronic terminals  11  forming an interface  20  for connection to a module  22 , in other embodiments, the port  14  may contain one or more additional or alternate communication interfaces. For example, the port  14  may contain or comprise a USB port, a Firewire port, 16-pin port, or other type of physical contact-based connection, or may include a wireless or contactless communication interface, such as an interface for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, near-field communication, RFID, Bluetooth Low Energy, Zigbee, or other wireless communication technique, or an interface for infrared or other optical communication technique. In another embodiment, the sensor system  12  may include more than one port  14  configured for communication with one or more modules  22  or external devices  110 . This configuration may alternately be considered to be a single distributed port  14 . For example, each of the sensors  16  may have a separate port  14  for communication with one or more electronic modules  22 . The ports  14  in this embodiment are connected to the sensors  16  by leads  18  and may be located between the layers of the insert  37 , within a hole in the insert  37 , or above or below the insert  37  in various embodiments. It is understood that multiple or distributed port(s)  14  may be used, with combinations of two or more sensors connected to a single port  14 . In further embodiments, the sensor system  12  may include one or more ports  14  having different configurations, which may include a combination of two or more configurations described herein. 
     The module  22  may additionally have one or multiple communication interfaces for connecting to an external device  110  to transmit the data for processing, as described below and shown in  FIGS. 5 and 20-21 . Such interfaces can include any of the contacted or contactless interfaces described above. In one example, the module  22  includes at least a retractable USB connection for connection to a computer and/or for charging a battery of the module  22 . In another example, the module  22  may be configured for contacted or contactless connection to a mobile device, such as a watch, cell phone, portable music player, etc. The module  22  may be configured for wireless communication with the external device  110 , which allows the device  22  to remain in the footwear  100 . However, in another embodiment, the module  22  may be configured to be removed from the footwear  100  to be directly connected to the external device  110  for data transfer, such as by the retractable USB connection described above.  FIG. 20  illustrates one embodiment where the module  22  is configured for wireless communication with one or more external devices  110 . Such external devices  110  may also communicate information received from the sensor system  12  with each other, as also shown in  FIG. 20 . 
     In a wireless embodiment, the module  22  may be connected to an antenna  17  for wireless communication (see  FIG. 20 ). The antenna  17  may be shaped, sized, and positioned for use with the appropriate transmission frequency for the selected wireless communication method. Additionally, the antenna  17  may be located internally within the module  22  or external to the module. In one example, the sensor system  12  itself (such as the leads  18  and conductive portions of the sensors  16 ) could be used to form an antenna. The module  22  may further be placed, positioned, and/or configured in order to improve antenna reception, and in one embodiment, may use a portion of the user&#39;s body as an antenna. In one embodiment, the module  22  may be permanently mounted within the footwear  100 , or alternately may be removable at the option of the user and capable of remaining in the footwear  100  if desired. Additionally, as further explained below, the module  22  may be removed and replaced with another module  22  programmed and/or configured for gathering and/or utilizing data from the sensors  16  in another manner. If the module  22  is permanently mounted within the footwear  100 , the sensor system  12  may further contain an external port (not shown) to allow for data transfer and/or battery charging, such as a USB or Firewire port. It is understood that the module  22  may be configured for both contacted and contactless communication. 
     In another embodiment, illustrated in  FIG. 21 , the system  12  may include no module  22 , and instead, the sensors  16  may be in direct wired or wireless communication with the external device  110 . In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 21 , the sensors  16  each have a separate antenna  17  (and may also include a transmitter or TX/RX  107 ) that communicates with the external device  110 . In another embodiment, multiple sensors  16  may communicate through a single antenna  17  (and/or single transmitter or TX/RX  107 ). It is understood that a single device  110  is shown in  FIG. 21  for simplicity, and that the sensor system  12  may be in direct or indirect communication with several external devices  110 . 
     While the port  14  may be located in a variety of positions without departing from the invention, in one embodiment, the port  14  is provided at a position and orientation and/or is otherwise structured so as to avoid or minimize contact with and/or irritation of the wearer&#39;s foot, e.g., as the wearer steps down in and/or otherwise uses the article of footwear  100 , such as during an athletic activity. The positioning of the port  14  in  FIGS. 3-4 and 14  illustrates one such example. In another embodiment, the port  14  is located proximate the heel or instep regions of the shoe  100 . Other features of the footwear structure  100  may help reduce or avoid contact between the wearer&#39;s foot and the port  14  (or an element connected to the port  14 ) and improve the overall comfort of the footwear structure  100 . For example, as described above and illustrated in  FIGS. 3-4 , the foot contacting member  133  may fit over and at least partially cover the port  14 , thereby providing a layer of padding between the wearer&#39;s foot and the port  14 . Additional features for reducing contact between the port  14  and the wearer&#39;s foot and modulating any undesired feel of the port  14  at the wearer&#39;s foot may be used. 
       FIGS. 14A-B  show further views of one embodiment of the port  14  configured to be utilized with the insert member  37 . Similar structures described above will be designated with identical or similar reference numerals. This embodiment and variations of the embodiment are described in detail below. As discussed and disclosed herein, the port  14  defines or supports an interface  20  for an operable connection with the module  22 . The module  22  will also be described in greater detail below. Through the operable connection between the port  14  and the module  22 , data sensed by the sensor assembly  12  can be acquired, stored and/or processed for further use and analysis. 
     As further shown in  FIGS. 14A-B , the housing  24  in this embodiment includes a base member  140  and a cover member  142 . The base member  140  may correspond to the tub  29  as described above that defines the side walls  25  and the base wall  26 . The cover member  142  has a central aperture  153  dimensioned to receive the module  22  therethrough. An underside of the cover member  142  has a pair of depending posts (not shown) that cooperate with receivers (not shown) on the base member  140  as will be described. An outer periphery of the cover member  142  defines the lip or flange  28 . In an exemplary embodiment, the cover member  142  may have depending walls that cooperatively define the side walls  25  of the housing  24 . In such configuration, the base member  140  may define a ledge on the side wall to receive the depending walls on the cover member  142 . 
       FIG. 14B  further shows components of the interface assembly  156 . The interface assembly  156  has a carrier  157  that supports the electrical connectors  82  such as described schematically in reference to  FIG. 32 . The electrical connectors  82  each have a distal end defining a contact that is resiliently supported by the carrier  157  that will cooperate with a corresponding contact on the module  22 . As shown in  FIG. 14 , the interface assembly  156  is operably connected to the extension  21  having the leads  11  thereon of the insert member  37 . As further shown in  FIG. 14B , it is understood that the tail  21 A can be further folded over to be positioned adjacent a back side of the extension  21 . As further shown in  FIG. 14 , the carrier  157  is positioned in a first lateral slot  148  of the base member  140  of the housing  24 . As can be appreciated from  FIG. 14B , a filler material  159  (e.g. a potting compound) may be injected into a second lateral slot  150  behind the carrier  157 . This configuration places the connectors  82  of the interface  20  exposed within the tub  29  for connection to the module  22 . 
       FIGS. 15-16  disclose additional views and features of one embodiment of the module  22 . As previously discussed, the module  22  is received by and is operably connected to the port  14  to collect, store and/or process data received from the sensor assembly  12 . It is understood that the module  22  houses various components for such purposes including but not limited to, printed circuit boards, power supplies, light members, interfaces, and different types of sensors, including multi-axis accelerometer, gyroscopes and/or magnetometers. The module  22  generally includes a housing  170  that supports an interface assembly  171  forming the interface  23 , and having electrical connectors that form contacts for cooperation with the interface  20  of the port  14 . The interface assembly  171  has a plurality of connectors  172  and a module carrier  173 . The connectors  172  each have distal ends that form contacts that collectively define the interface  23  of the module  22 . It is understood that the connectors  172  may be insert molded such that material is formed around the connectors  172  to define the module carrier  173 . The housing  170  generally has a module base member  175 , which may include multiple members (e.g., outer and inner members). The housing  170  further has a module top member  177 , which may also include multiple members (e.g., outer and inner top members). The module base member  175 , the module top member  177 , and interface assembly  171  cooperate to provide a sealed configuration around the connectors  172 . The connectors  172  may be considered to have an over-molded configuration in this embodiment. These components also form an inner cavity wherein the housing  170  supports internal components including a printed circuit board  180  that is operably connected to the connectors  172 . 
     It is understood that the module  22  is received in the port  14 . A front end of the module  22  is inserted through the central aperture  153  and into the first section  144 . The module  22  is dimensioned to generally correspond in size to the tub  29  in an interference fit. In such configuration, the interface  23  on the module  22  is operably engaged with the interface  20  on the port  14  wherein the respective contacts of the interfaces  20 ,  23  are in surface-to-surface contact. Thus, the construction is such that the interface  23  of the module  22  is forced against the interface  20  of the port  14 . The module  22  may have a recess  184  on a rear surface that receives the projection  151  of the housing  24  to assist in retaining the module  22  in the port  14  through a snap connection. A user can easily remove the module  22  from the port by accessing the module  22  with the assistance of a finger recess  29 A. Thus, the modules  22  can easily be inserted into the port  14  and removed from the port  14  when necessary such as for charging or transferring data, or when replacing one type of module  22  for one application with a different type of module for a different application, or replacing a power drained module  22  with a freshly charged module  22 . 
       FIG. 5  shows a schematic diagram of an example electronic module  22  including data transmission/reception capabilities through a data transmission/reception system  107 , which may be used in accordance with at least some examples of this invention. While the example structures of  FIG. 5  illustrate the data transmission/reception system (TX-RX)  107  as integrated into the electronic module structure  22 , those skilled in the art will appreciate that a separate component may be included as part of a footwear structure  100  or other structure for data transmission/reception purposes and/or that the data transmission/reception system  107  need not be entirely contained in a single housing or a single package in all examples of the invention. Rather, if desired, various components or elements of the data transmission/reception system  107  may be separate from one another, in different housings, on different boards, and/or separately engaged with the article of footwear  100  or other device in a variety of different manners without departing from this invention. Various examples of different potential mounting structures are described in more detail below. 
     In the example of  FIG. 5 , the electronic component  22  may include a data transmission/reception element  107  for transmitting data to and/or receiving data from one or more remote systems. In one embodiment, the transmission/reception element  107  is configured for communication through the port  14 , such as by the contacted or contactless interfaces described above. In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 5 , the module  22  includes an interface  23  configured for connection to the port  14  and/or sensors  16 . In the module  22  illustrated in  FIG. 5 , the interface  23  has contacts that are complementary with the terminals  11  of the interface  20  of the port  14 , to connect with the port  14 . In other embodiments, as described above, the port  14  and the module  22  may contain different types of interfaces  20 ,  23 , which may be contacted or wireless. It is understood that in some embodiments, the module  22  may interface with the port  14  and/or sensors  16  through the TX-RX element  107 . Accordingly, in one embodiment, the module  22  may be external to the footwear  100 , and the port  14  may comprise a wireless transmitter interface for communication with the module  22 . The electronic component  22  of this example further includes a processing system  202  (e.g., one or more microprocessors), a memory system  204 , and a power supply  206  (e.g., a battery or other power source). In one embodiment, the power supply  206  may be configured for inductive charging, such as by including a coil or other inductive member. In this configuration, the module  22  may be charged by placing the article of footwear  100  on an inductive pad or other inductive charger, allowing charging without removal of the module  22  from the port  14 . In another embodiment, the power supply  206  may additionally or alternately be configured for charging using energy-harvesting technology, and may include a device for energy harvesting, such as a charger that charges the power supply  206  through absorption of kinetic energy due to movement of the user. 
     Connection to the one or more sensors can be accomplished as shown in  FIG. 5 , but additional sensors (not shown) may be provided to sense or provide data or information relating to a wide variety of different types of parameters, such as physical or physiological data associated with use of the article of footwear  100  or the user, including pedometer type speed and/or distance information, other speed and/or distance data sensor information, temperature, altitude, barometric pressure, humidity, GPS data, accelerometer output or data, heart rate, pulse rate, blood pressure, body temperature, EKG data, EEG data, sweat detection, data regarding angular orientation and changes in angular orientation (such as a gyroscope-based sensor), etc., and this data may be stored in memory  204  and/or made available, for example, for transmission by the transmission/reception system  107  to some remote location or system. The additional sensor(s), if present, may also include an accelerometer (e.g., for sensing direction changes during steps, such as for pedometer type speed and/or distance information, for sensing jump height, etc.). In one embodiment, the module  22  may include an additional sensor  208 , such as an accelerometer, and the data from the sensors  16  may be integrated with the data from the accelerometer  208 , such as by the module  22  or the external device  110 . 
     In one embodiment, the sensor system  12 , the external device  110 , or both may contain a GPS device or sensor  209 , which may include a GPS antenna and other necessary hardware. Since the sensor system  12  is typically always with the user during use, a GPS device connected to the sensor system  12  may be used to sense the user&#39;s position when in use. In the embodiment of  FIG. 5 , the GPS device  209  is shown to be contained within the module  22 , but it is understood that the GPS device  209  may be external to the module  22  and may be in communication with the module  22  in another embodiment. The external device  110  may additionally or alternately include a GPS device  209 , which may enable positional sensing when used in connection with a sensor system  12  as shown in  FIG. 21 , which contains no electronic module  22 . It is understood that the memory  204 ,  304  and the processing system  202 ,  302  of the module  22  and/or the external device  110  may include and be configured for processing software for use with the GPS device  209 . Operation of the GPS device  209  and its uses in connection with the system  400  and method  500  for analyzing athletic activity are described in greater detail below. 
     As additional examples, electronic modules, systems, and methods of the various types described above may be used for providing automatic impact attenuation control for articles of footwear. Such systems and methods may operate, for example, like those described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,430,843, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2003/0009913, and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2004/0177531, which describe systems and methods for actively and/or dynamically controlling the impact attenuation characteristics of articles of footwear (U.S. Pat. No. 6,430,843, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2003/0009913, and U.S. patent application Publication No. 2004/0177531 are each entirely incorporated herein by reference and made part hereof). When used for providing speed and/or distance type information, sensing units, algorithms, and/or systems of the types described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,724,265, 5,955,667, 6,018,705, 6,052,654, 6,876,947 and 6,882,955 may be used. These patents each are entirely incorporated herein by reference. Additional embodiments of sensors and sensor systems, as well as articles of footwear and sole structures and members utilizing the same, are described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/483,824, published as U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2010/0063778; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/483,828, published as U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2010/0063779; and U.S. patent application Ser. Nos. 13/399,778 and 13/399,935, all of which applications are incorporated by reference herein in their entireties and made part hereof. 
     The electronic module  22  can also include an activation system (not shown). The activation system or portions thereof may be engaged with the module  22  or with the article of footwear  100  (or other device) together with or separate from other portions of the electronic module  22 . The activation system may be used for selectively activating the electronic module  22  and/or at least some functions of the electronic module  22  (e.g., data transmission/reception functions, etc.). A wide variety of different activation systems may be used without departing from this invention. In any such embodiments, the sensor system  12  may contain a “sleep” mode, which can deactivate the system  12  after a set period of inactivity. In an alternate embodiment, the sensor system  12  may operate as a low-power device that does not activate or deactivate. 
     The module  22  may further be configured for communication with an external device  110 , which may be an external computer or computer system, mobile device, gaming system, or other type of electronic device, as shown in  FIGS. 6 and 10-12 . The exemplary external device  110  shown in  FIG. 5  includes a processor  302 , a memory  304 , a power supply  306 , a display  308 , a user input  310 , and a data transmission/reception system  108 . The transmission/reception system  108  is configured for communication with the module  22  via the transmission/reception system  107  of the module  22 , through any type of known electronic communication, including the contacted and contactless communication methods described above and elsewhere herein. It is understood that the module  22  and/or the port  14  can be configured for communication with a plurality of external devices, including a wide variety of different types and configurations of electronic devices, and also including intermediate devices that function to pass information on to another external device and may or may not further process such data. Additionally, the transmission/reception system  107  of the module  22  may be configured for a plurality of different types of electronic communication. It is further understood that the shoe  100  may include a separate power source to operate the sensors  16  if necessary, such as a battery, piezoelectric, solar power supplies, or others. In the embodiment of  FIGS. 3-8 , the sensors  16  receive power through connection to the module  22 . 
     As described below, such sensor assemblies can be customized for use with specific software for the electronic module  22  and/or the external device  110 . A third party may provide such software along with a sole insert having a customized sensor assembly, as a package. The module  22  and/or the overall sensor system  12  may cooperate with one or more algorithms for analysis of the data obtained from the sensors  16 , including algorithms stored on and/or executed by the module, the external device  110 , or another component. 
     In operation, the sensors  16  gather data according to their function and design, and transmit the data to the port  14 . The port  14  then allows the electronic module  22  to interface with the sensors  16  and collect the data for later use and/or processing. In one embodiment, the data is collected, stored, and transmitted in a universally readable format, so the data is able to be accessed and/or downloaded by a plurality of users, with a variety of different applications, for use in a variety of different purposes. In one example, the data is collected, stored, and transmitted in XML format. In one embodiment, the module  22  detects pressure changes in the sensors  16  utilizing the circuit  10  as shown in  FIG. 9 , by measuring the voltage drop at the measurement terminal  104   b , which is reflective of the changes in resistance of the particular sensor  16  that is currently switched.  FIG. 13  illustrates one example of a pressure—resistance curve for a sensor  16 , with broken lines illustrating potential shifts of the curve due to factors such as bending of the insert  37 . The module  22  may have an activation resistance R A , which is the detected resistance necessary for the module  22  to register the pressure on the sensor. The corresponding pressure to produce such resistance is known as the activation pressure P A . The activation resistance R A  may be selected to correspond to a specific activation pressure P A  at which it is desired for the module  22  to register data. In one embodiment, the activation pressure P A  may be about 0.15 bar, about 0.2 bar, or about 0.25 bar, and the corresponding activation resistance R A  may be about 100 kΩ. Additionally, in one embodiment, the highest sensitivity range may be from 150-1500 mbar. In one embodiment, the sensor system  12  constructed as shown in  FIGS. 3-22B  can detect pressures in the range of 0.1-7.0 bar (or about 0.1-7.0 atm), and in another embodiment, the sensor system  12  may detect pressures over this range with high sensitivity. 
     In different embodiments, the sensor system  12  may be configured to collect different types of data. In one embodiment (described above), the sensor(s)  16  can collect data regarding the number, sequence, and/or frequency of compressions. For example, the system  12  can record the number or frequency of steps, jumps, cuts, kicks, or other compressive forces incurred while wearing the footwear  100 , as well as other parameters, such as contact time and flight time. Both quantitative sensors and binary on/off type sensors can gather this data. In another example, the system can record the sequence of compressive forces incurred by the footwear, which can be used for purposes such as determining foot pronation or supination, weight transfer, foot strike patterns, or other such applications. In another embodiment (also described above), the sensor(s)  16  are able to quantitatively measure the compressive forces on the adjacent portions of the shoe  100 , and the data consequently can include quantitative compressive force and/or impact measurement. Relative differences in the forces on different portions of the shoe  100  can be utilized in determining weight distribution and “center of pressure” of the shoe  100 . The weight distribution and/or center of pressure can be calculated independently for one or both shoes  100 , or can be calculated over both shoes together, such as to find a center of pressure or center of weight distribution for a person&#39;s entire body. In further embodiments, the sensor(s)  16  may be able to measure rates of changes in compressive force, contact time, flight time or time between impacts (such as for jumping or running), and/or other temporally-dependent parameters. It is understood that, in any embodiment, the sensors  16  may require a certain threshold force or impact before registering the force/impact, as described above. 
     As described above, the data is provided through the universal port  14  to the module  22  in a universally readable format in one embodiment, so that the number of applications, users, and programs that can use the data is nearly unlimited. Thus, the port  14  and module  22  are configured and/or programmed as desired by a user, and the port  14  and module  22  receive input data from the sensor system  12 , which data can be used in any manner desired for different applications. The module  22  may be able to recognize whether the data received is related to a left or right shoe, such as through the use of a unique identification chip. The module  22  may process the data differently according to the recognition of L/R shoe, and may also transmit the data to the external device  110  with an identification of whether the data is from a L/R shoe. The external device  110  may likewise process or otherwise handle the data differently based on the identification of L/R shoe as well. In one example, the connections of the sensors  16  to the terminals  11  and the interface  20  may be different between the left and right inserts  37 , as shown in  FIG. 12  and discussed above. The data from the left insert  37  may be interpreted differently from the data from the right insert  37  in accordance with this arrangement. The module  22  and/or the electronic device  110  may perform similar actions with respect to other identifying information contained on the unique identification chip  92 . In many applications, the data is further processed by the module  22  and/or the external device  110  prior to use. In configurations where the external device  110  further processes the data, the module  22  may transmit the data to the external device  110 . This transmitted data may be transmitted in the same universally-readable format, or may be transmitted in another format, and the module  22  may be configured to change the format of the data. Additionally, the module  22  can be configured and/or programmed to gather, utilize, and/or process data from the sensors  16  for one or more specific applications. In one embodiment, the module  22  is configured for gathering, utilizing, and/or processing data for use in a plurality of applications. Examples of such uses and applications are given below. As used herein, the term “application” refers generally to a particular use, and does not necessarily refer to use in a computer program application, as that term is used in the computer arts. Nevertheless, a particular application may be embodied wholly or partially in a computer program application. 
     Further, in one embodiment, the module  22  can be removed from the footwear  100  and replaced with a second module  22  configured for operating differently than the first module  22 . For example, the replacement is accomplished by lifting the foot contacting member  133 , disconnecting the first module  22  from the port  14  and removing the first module  22  from the housing  24 , then inserting the second module  22  into the housing  24  and connecting the second module  22  to the port  14 , and finally placing the foot contacting member  133  back into position. The second module  22  may be programmed and/or configured differently than the first module  22 . In one embodiment, the first module  22  may be configured for use in one or more specific applications, and the second module  22  may be configured for use in one or more different applications. For example, the first module  22  may be configured for use in one or more gaming applications and the second module  22  may be configured for use in one or more athletic performance monitoring applications. Additionally, the modules  22  may be configured for use in different applications of the same type. For example, the first module  22  may be configured for use in one game or athletic performance monitoring application, and the second module  22  may be configured for use in a different game or athletic performance monitoring application. As another example, the modules  22  may be configured for different uses within the same game or performance monitoring application. In another embodiment, the first module  22  may be configured to gather one type of data, and the second module  22  may be configured to gather a different type of data. Examples of such types of data are described herein, including quantitative force and/or pressure measurement, relative force and/or pressure measurement (i.e. sensors  16  relative to each other), weight shifting/transfer, impact sequences (such as for foot strike patterns) rate of force and/or pressure change, etc. In a further embodiment, the first module  22  may be configured to utilize or process data from the sensors  16  in a different manner than the second module  22 . For example, the modules  22  may be configured to only gather, store, and/or communicate data, or the modules  22  may be configured to further process the data in some manner, such as organizing the data, changing the form of the data, performing calculations using the data, etc. In yet another embodiment, the modules  22  may be configured to communicate differently, such as having different communication interfaces or being configured to communicate with different external devices  110 . The modules  22  may function differently in other aspects as well, including both structural and functional aspects, such as using different power sources or including additional or different hardware components, such as additional sensors as described above (e.g. GPS, accelerometer, etc.). 
     One use contemplated for the data collected by the system  12  is in measuring weight transfer, which is important for many athletic activities, such as a golf swing, a baseball/softball swing, a hockey swing (ice hockey or field hockey), a tennis swing, throwing/pitching a ball, etc. The pressure data collected by the system  12  can give valuable feedback regarding balance and stability for use in improving technique in any applicable athletic field. It is understood that more or less expensive and complex sensor systems  12  may be designed, based on the intended use of the data collected thereby. 
     The data collected by the system  12  can be used in measurement of a variety of other athletic performance characteristics. The data can be used to measure the degree and/or speed of foot pronation/supination, foot strike patterns, balance, and other such parameters, which can be used to improve technique in running/jogging or other athletic activities. With regard to pronation/supination, analysis of the data can also be used as a predictor of pronation/supination. Speed and distance monitoring can be performed, which may include pedometer-based measurements, such as contact measurement or loft time measurement. Jump height can also be measured, such as by using contact or loft time measurement. Lateral cutting force can be measured, including differential forces applied to different parts of the shoe  100  during cutting. The sensors  16  can also be positioned to measure shearing forces, such as a foot slipping laterally within the shoe  100 . As one example, additional sensors may be incorporated into the sides of the upper  120  of the shoe  100  to sense forces against the sides. 
     The data, or the measurements derived therefrom, may be useful for athletic training purposes, including improving speed, power, quickness, consistency, technique, etc., as described in greater detail below. The port  14 , module  22 , and/or external device  110  can be configured to give the user active, real-time feedback. For example, a coaching or training program may be configured to analyze athletic activity and provide coaching and/or other feedback based on such activity, as described in more detail below. In one example, the port  14  and/or module  22  can be placed in communication with a computer, mobile device, etc., in order to convey results in real time. In another example, one or more vibration elements may be included in the shoe  100 , which can give a user feedback by vibrating a portion of the shoe to help control motion, such as the features disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,978,684, which is incorporated herein by reference and made part hereof. Additionally, the data can be used to compare athletic movements, such as comparing a movement with a user&#39;s past movements to show consistency, improvement, or the lack thereof, or comparing a user&#39;s movement with the same movement of another, such as a professional golfer&#39;s swing. Further and more detailed examples are described below. 
     The system  12  can also be configured for “all day activity” tracking, to record the various activities a user engages in over the course of a day. The system  12  may include a special algorithm for this purpose, such as in the module  22 , the external device  110 , and/or the sensors  16 . The system  12  may also be used for control applications, rather than data collection and processing applications, such as for use in controlling an external device  110 , e.g., a computer, television, video game, etc., based on movements by the user detected by the sensors  16 . 
     A single article of footwear  100  containing the sensor system  12  as described herein can be used alone or in combination with a second article of footwear  100 ′ having its own sensor system  12 ′, such as a pair of shoes  100 ,  100 ′ as illustrated in  FIGS. 10-12 . The sensor system  12 ′ of the second shoe  100 ′ generally contains one or more sensors  16 ′ connected by sensor leads  18 ′ to a port  14 ′ in communication with an electronic module  22 ′. The second sensor system  12 ′ of the second shoe  100 ′ shown in  FIGS. 10-12  has the same configuration as the sensor system  12  of the first shoe  100 . However, in another embodiment, the shoes  100 ,  100 ′ may have sensor systems  12 ,  12 ′ having different configurations. The two shoes  100 ,  100 ′ are both configured for communication with the external device  110 , and in the embodiment illustrated, each of the shoes  100 ,  100 ′ has an electronic module  22 ,  22 ′ configured for communication with the external device  110 . In another embodiment, both shoes  100 ,  100 ′ may have ports  14 ,  14 ′ configured for communication with the same electronic module  22 . In this embodiment, at least one shoe  100 ,  100 ′ may be configured for wireless communication with the module  22 .  FIGS. 10-12  illustrate various modes for communication between the modules  22 ,  22 ′. 
       FIG. 10  illustrates a “mesh” communication mode, where the modules  22 ,  22 ′ are configured for communicating with each other, and are also configured for independent communication with the external device  110 .  FIG. 11  illustrates a “daisy chain” communication mode, where one module  22 ′ communicates with the external device  110  through the other module  22 . In other words, the second module  22 ′ is configured to communicate signals (which may include data) to the first module  22 , and the first module  22  is configured to communicate signals from both modules  22 ,  22 ′ to the external device  110 . Likewise, the external device communicates with the second module  22 ′ through the first module  22 , by sending signals to the first module  22 , which communicates the signals to the second module  22 ′. In one embodiment, the modules  22 ,  22 ′ can also communicate with each other for purposes other than transmitting signals to and from the external device  110 .  FIG. 12  illustrates an “independent” communication mode, where each module  22 ,  22 ′ is configured for independent communication with the external device  110 , and the modules  22 ,  22 ′ are not configured for communication with each other. In other embodiments, the sensor systems  12 ,  12 ′ may be configured for communication with each other and/or with the external device  110  in another manner. 
       FIGS. 22-23B  illustrate additional embodiments of a sensor system  12  for use with an article of footwear  100  as described above. In one embodiment, as seen in  FIG. 22 , a footwear sensor system  12  may be incorporated into an insole member  137  that includes four sensors  116  connected to a port  14  by leads  18 . The insole member  137  may be a foot contacting member, such as a sockliner, or may be an insole that is positioned underneath a foot contacting member. In another embodiment, the sensor system  12  as shown in  FIG. 22  can be incorporated into a different type of sole member. In the embodiment of  FIG. 22 , the port  14  is connected to antenna  17  for transmitting signals from the sensors  16  to an external electronic device (not shown) as described herein. The port  14  may be connected to an electronic module  22  as described above, and the antenna  17  may be a component of the module. In another embodiment, no electronic module  22  may be included, and the antenna  17  may be a component of the port  14  and configured for direct wireless communication with an external device. It is understood that in any embodiment, the antenna  17  may be accompanied by sufficient hardware and other components to permit transmission of data to the external device. The sensors  116  in the embodiment of  FIG. 22  are positioned similarly to the sensors of the insert  37  as shown in  FIGS. 3-4 and 6-8 . 
     The sensors  116  in the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 22  may be configured differently from the sensors  16  of the embodiment in  FIGS. 3-4 and 6-8  as identified above. For example, in the embodiments illustrated in  FIGS. 23A and 23B , the sensors  116  may include contacts  40 ,  42  that are simple carbon contacts within a cavity  41  in a sealed flexible membrane. The sensors  116  using contacts  40 ,  42  as in  FIGS. 23A and 23B  may be configured to dynamically sense changes in force similarly to the sensors  16  of  FIGS. 3-4 and 6-8  described above, or may function as binary on/off sensors in another embodiment. In the embodiment of  FIG. 23A , the body of the insole member  137  may form the sealed flexible membrane that encloses the sensors  116 , with the leads  18  running from the contacts  40 ,  42  through the insole member  137  to the port  14 . In the embodiment of  FIG. 23B , the insole member  137  may include a first flexible member  137 A that encloses the cavities  41  containing the sensors  116  therein, and a second flexible member  137 B connected to the first flexible member  137 A. The leads  18  are shown as extending through the first flexible member  137 A from the contacts  40 ,  42  to the port  14 , however the leads  18  may extend through at least a portion of the second flexible member  137 B in another embodiment. In the embodiment of  FIG. 23B , the first and second flexible members  137 A,  137 B may be made from different materials with different properties. For example, the first flexible member  137 A may be made from a flexible, durable, and/or waterproof material, such as thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), silicone, or other polymer material. The second flexible member  137 B may be made from a cushioning material, such as a foam material commonly used in insoles and sockliners. 
     Embodiments of the system and method for analyzing athletic activity may also be used with a different article of apparel and/or another apparatus for sensing motion. For example, a sensor system for an article of footwear may include sensors such as a 3-axis accelerometer, a 3-axis gyroscope sensor, and/or a compass, which may sense biomechanical movement of the user&#39;s foot without the use of pressure/force sensors. It is understood that all of these sensors may be incorporated into a single electronic module in one embodiment, such as the module  22  described above. Additionally, sensor systems for other articles of apparel may utilize a similar module (i.e. having accelerometer, gyroscope, and/or compass sensors) for detecting a different type of biomechanical movement. 
     As another example, a shirt  90  or a legwear article  91  may be provided with a sensor system  12  for sensing force, movement, and/or other biomechanical parameter, as shown in  FIGS. 17-19 . The shirt  90  and legwear  91  in these embodiments include sensors  93  at joint areas that are in communication with a port  94  via a plurality of leads  95 . A module  22 , which may be provided according to other embodiments described herein, may be connected to the port  94  to collect data from the sensors  93  reflecting a biomechanical parameter. In one embodiment, the sensors  93  and leads  95  may be formed of a flexible polymer material with a conductive particulate material dispersed therein. The leads  95  may have a high density of the conductive material to minimize variations in conductivity, and the sensors  93  may have a lower density of the conductive material, so that compression and/or other deformation of the sensors  93  may change the conductivity/resistivity of the sensors. This change in conductivity/resistivity may be used to indicate force and/or movement at the sensors  93 , similar to the footwear sensor system  12  described above. The module  22  may collect such data and communicate it to an external device  110 , as similarly described above. It is understood that the module  22  may be configured specifically for use in collecting data from the sensors  93 . In these embodiments, the system  400  may be used to provide coaching and/or other feedback to a user to assist the user in developing a specific biomechanical movement pattern, such as for use in an athletic activity. Examples of such biomechanical movement patterns include a throwing motion, a basketball shooting motion, a jumping form for hurdling or high-jump competition, a swinging motion (e.g. golf, baseball, hockey, tennis), a dancing motion, etc. It is also understood that sensor systems  12  as described above with respect to the footwear  10 , shirt  90 , and legwear  91  may be used in connection with other articles of apparel or other apparatuses connected to other parts of the body. It is also understood that any such sensor systems may include sensors  16 ,  93  of the either or both of the types described above, in addition to or in combination with further types of sensors. In further embodiments, the system  400  and method  500  may be used in connection with other sensor systems or apparatuses for sensing motion, including sensor systems incorporated into other articles of apparel. 
     Example embodiments of a system  400  for analyzing athletic activity are shown in  FIGS. 20 and 21 , and include at least sensor system  12  configured to sense a biomechanical parameter of a user while the user is in biomechanical motion, as well as at least one electronic device  110  in communication with the sensor system  12  so that the electronic device  110  can receive data gathered by the sensor system  12 . The electronic device  110  is configured for analyzing the data to determine whether a deviation from a desired biomechanical movement pattern exists in the biomechanical movement of the user, and may generate an indication to the user when deviation from the desired biomechanical movement pattern is determined to exist. Deviation may be determined by using a biomechanical movement template, in one embodiment, as described in greater detail below. Such templates may be stored in the memory  304  of the electronic device  110 . In this embodiment, the electronic device  110  can compare the data received from the sensor system  12  to a biomechanical movement template corresponding to the desired biomechanical movement pattern to determine any deviation from the template. Deviation from the template may indicate deviation from the biomechanical movement pattern. It is understood that the determination of “deviation” may include threshold variations, where the data is not considered to deviate from the template unless the threshold is exceeded. 
     Movement templates may be obtained in a variety of ways. As one example, a template may be included in software applications stored in the memory  304  of the electronic device  110  and/or obtained from other tangible storage media. As another example, a template may be accessed by communication with another electronic device  110  (including from the electronic module  22 ), such as a download over the internet or other network. As a further example, a template may be created by the user, by either selecting a desired movement pattern or recording an actual movement pattern of the user or another person. It is understood that any such templates may be stored in the memory  304 . 
     Examples of biomechanical movement templates that may be used in connection with embodiments of the system  400  and method  500  include various footstrike and other running templates, such as templates for footstrike pattern, footstrike load or force, gait speed, stride length, footstrike contact time, speed, distance, footstrike cadence, pronation/supination, stride force, upper body movement, lean, asymmetry, posture, and others. Data gathered by a sensor system  12  incorporated within an article of footwear  100 , such as shown in  FIGS. 3-4 and 6-8  or in  FIGS. 22-23B , may be compared with one or more of these templates. Additional examples of biomechanical movement templates that may be used in connection with embodiments of the system  400  and method  500  include templates for: running form, throwing form (which may be tailored to a specific activity such as baseball, football, softball, cricket, etc.), basketball shooting form, swing form (which may be tailored to a specific activity such as baseball, golf, tennis, hockey, etc.), kicking form (e.g. for soccer or football), ice skating or roller skating form, jumping form, climbing form, weightlifting or other stationary exercise form, posture, and many other templates corresponding to many other biomechanical movement patterns. A sensor system  12  as shown in  FIGS. 17-19  and/or another type of sensor system may additionally or alternately be used in connection with at least some of these templates. Templates may be created based on a number of different subjects, including a preferred or “proper” biomechanical movement pattern (such as with input of coaches, trainers, sports medicine professionals, etc.), a past biomechanical movement pattern of the user, a biomechanical movement pattern of a famous athlete or other famous person, etc. 
     In one embodiment, a plurality of templates may be available for a single activity and/or for different activities. For example, multiple different types of templates may be available for use for a single activity, such as a footstrike pattern template, a footstrike load template, and other templates for use in a running activity. Multiple templates may be used by the device  110  simultaneously for analyzing multiple different biomechanical movement patterns in a single activity, in one embodiment. As another example, multiple different templates of the same type may be available for use, such as heel-strike, midfoot-strike, and forefoot-strike footstrike pattern templates. Further, the template(s) used in connection with an activity may be manually selected by the user or another person, automatically selected by the processor  302 , or a combination of such techniques. For example, a user or another person may manually select a specific footstrike pattern template or a specific throwing form template to coach the user to a specific footstrike pattern or throwing motion. As another example, the user may select a specific activity, and the device  110  may automatically select a template based on the desired activity, such as selecting a different footstrike pattern template for sprinting vs. distance running vs. football playing. It is understood that the automatic selection may incorporate input from the user, such as past performance data, answers to posed questions, etc. As a further example, a manually or automatically selected template may be further revised (either manually or automatically) based on characteristics of the user, such as height, weight, age, BMI, past performance, etc. Other methods for selection of templates may be used as well. 
     In one embodiment, biomechanical movement templates may vary for different users. Different users may utilize different templates, and the content of similar templates may vary depending on the characteristics (e.g. height, weight, age, BMI, fitness, etc.) of an individual user. A device  110  utilizing the templates may provide for user identification in one embodiment, such as through a user name, passcode, biometric ID, etc., and may store templates customized for each identified user. In another embodiment, a device  110  utilizing the templates may also provide for automatic selection of templates based on user characteristics, without specifically identifying the user. 
       FIG. 24  illustrates one example embodiment of a method  500  for analyzing athletic activity that may be used with a system  400  such as shown in  FIGS. 20-21  or another type of system  400  for analyzing athletic activity as described herein. It is understood that the embodiment of the method  500  in  FIG. 24  is illustrated with respect to the actions of an electronic device  110  (or devices) that are in communication with a sensor system  12  as described above, and that other actions may be performed by other components, such as the module  22  of the sensor system. For example, prior to the device  110  receiving data from the sensor system  12 , in one embodiment the module  22  gathers data sensed by the sensors  16  and transmits the data to the device  110 . The module  22  may optionally perform some processing of the data prior to transmission. Additionally, actions performed by the device  110  and/or the module  22  may involve the processors  202 ,  302 , memories  204 ,  304 , and/or other components of such devices. 
     At step  510  in the method  500  as illustrated in  FIG. 24 , the device  110  receives data from the sensor system  12 , which may be transmitted by the module  22  or in another manner. In one embodiment, the device  110  receives data from the sensor system  12  in real time, in a substantially continuous manner, which may be accomplished by periodic transmission of individual data units or packets of data in various embodiments. In other embodiments, the device  110  may receive collected past data incrementally or in a single transmission. In a further embodiment, the device  110  may receive data from a plurality of different sensor systems. 
     The device  110  then analyzes the data to determine whether a deviation from a desired biomechanical movement pattern exists in the biomechanical motion of the user. In the embodiment of  FIG. 24 , the device  110  determines whether a deviation exists by comparing the data to one or more templates that have been selected, at step  520 , and determining whether a match exists between the data and the template, at step  530 . Many different types of criteria may be used in determining whether a match or deviation exists, in various embodiments. Additionally, as described above, various predetermined thresholds may be used in determining deviation, whereby deviation is not determined to exist unless the degree of deviation exceeds a particular threshold.  FIGS. 25-28  illustrate graphical depictions of comparisons between measured data and one or more templates, and these depictions are discussed in greater detail below. 
     After determining whether a deviation exists, the method  500  either ends, or the device  110  continues analyzing additional data received from the sensor system  12 , at step  510 . If no deviation is detected, the device  110  may optionally generate an indication of success to the user in one embodiment, at step  540 . Such indications of success may take one or more different forms, including any forms described herein with respect to indications of deviation. If a deviation is detected, then the device  110  generates an indication of the deviation to the user, at  550 . Such an indication may be in one or more different forms, including visual, tactile, audible, and other indication. For example, a visual indication may be provided on a display of the device, where the indication may be displayed as text, graphics, color (e.g. green for success or red for deviation), or other visual display. A visual indication may also be provided by a blinking light or other component. As another example, a tactile indication may be provided by a vibration motor or other vibration device associated with the device  110 . Different vibration patterns, intensities, frequencies, etc. may be used to indicate differing results (success vs. failure). As a further example, an audible indication may be provided by a speaker or other audio device associated with the device  110 . An audible indication may take the form of spoken words, beeps, sirens, bells, and other sounds that may be understood to indicate success or failure. Further different types of indications may be generated, and it is understood that the type(s) of indication provided may depend on the capabilities of the device. Combinations of indications can also be utilized. The indication may additionally or alternately be generated by transmitting a signal to another device to cause the other device to produce an indication as described above. Additionally, the indications of success and/or failure may be indicated to the user in real time, or may be indicated at a later time, such as after the activity is completed. 
     In one embodiment, the user may be provided the option to select one or more different types of indications to be generated, and may select different “good” and “bad” indicators. In another embodiment, the device  110  may provide the ability for the user to select a “tone” of the indication. For example, the device  110  may provide the ability for a user to select a “coach” mode where indications of success or failure are more authoritative and demanding, a “buddy” mode where such indications are more supportive and encouraging, a “competitor” mode where such indications are more competitive in nature, a mode where a fanciful or comical character provides such indications in an entertaining or amusing manner, and the like. Such indication modes may be accompanied by an avatar displayed by the device  110  to appear to be speaking to the user. The user may further be provided the ability to select and/or design avatars utilized by the device  110 , including visual appearance, sound, personality, etc. 
     The device  110  may provide more information in the indication, in addition to information on whether the user&#39;s movement deviated from the template. An indication of deviation as described above may also include an indication of the degree of deviation in one embodiment. For example, on a device  110  with a visual display  308 , a degree of deviation may be indicated by a numerical value, a graphical depiction (e.g.  FIGS. 25-28 ), a display of different colors, shades, intensities, and other such visual indications or combinations of the same to indicate greater or lesser deviation. As another example, on a device  110  with an audio output, sounds may be emitted that vary in pitch, volume, rhythm, etc., and other such audible indications or combinations of the same, to indicate greater or lesser deviation. As a further example, on a device  110  with tactile output (e.g. a vibration motor), different tactile sensations may be generated to indicate greater or lesser deviation, such as vibrations of different intensities, rhythms, etc., and other such tactile indications or combinations of the same. The device  110  may be further provided with additional performance monitoring applications to allow the user to monitor his/her performance metrics dynamically during an activity and/or retroactively after the completion of an activity. 
     A device  110  as described herein may include one or more applications or other software to provide coaching information to a user, which may utilize one or more different types of templates as described herein. Templates may be included within the software and/or may be obtained from outside sources, such as by customized creation, download from external devices and/or storage media, etc. Such software may be configured specifically for a single activity, biomechanical movement pattern, or type of sensor system, or may be used in connection with multiple activities, multiple biomechanical movement patterns, and/or multiple different types of sensor systems. In one embodiment, the software may be able to incorporate multiple templates for a single activity, utilizing data input from one or multiple types of sensor systems. Additionally, such software may incorporate user data, such as height, weight, gender, BMI, actual recorded movement data, etc., and data of these types may be manually entered, downloaded from a separate storage media, collected from measurements by a sensor system  12 , and/or obtained through other means. Further, such software may provide for various degrees of user control and interaction. For example, a user may be able to select a specific activity and a specific type or types of coaching input for the software to provide. As another example, a user or another person (e.g. a coach, trainer, therapist, medical professional, etc.) may be able to specifically design or create a template or modify an existing template. 
     A device  110  provided with such software may display real-time results of the activity, such as real-time biometric movement data, real-time indications of compliance and/or deviation from a desired template, real-time information from other users (e.g. other participants in a competition or activity group, social networking contacts, etc.), and other types of real-time activity. It is understood that real-time results may be more effectively presented in connection with a compact mobile device  110 , which the user may carry/wear during the activity. A device  110  provided with such software may additionally or alternately provide collected past information, such as by providing an activity summary with data and/or analysis of the activity. For example, the software may generate a post-activity summary, which may include performance data, success in complying with a desired template, comparison to other users or to the user&#39;s past performance, etc., which may be presented in various forms. 
     In one embodiment, the device  110  and/or associated software may provide gradual coaching feedback to incrementally guide a user to a desired biomechanical movement pattern. Gradual or incremental coaching may be useful or even necessary in some circumstances, as rapid changes in biomechanical movement patterns can increase risk of injury. One way of accomplishing gradual or incremental coaching by the device  110  altering the biomechanical movement template to return to a more familiar or normal template for the user after a designated amount of usage, such as a designated amount of time, repetitions, travel distance, etc. For example, a predominately heel-striking runner may wish to gradually change his/her footstrike pattern to a predominately midfoot or forefoot strike pattern, e.g., over the course of 3-6 months. In one embodiment, gradual conversion can be accomplished by utilizing the desired footstrike template for only small portions of a run initially, and then returning to the normal (e.g. heel-strike) template and/or ceasing template usage after the designated portion is completed. The template usage can be gradually increased with successive runs. As one example, the desired footstrike template may be used for about 10% of the length of each run initially, and the usage of the desired template may increase by 5% each week until 100% usage is reached. It is understood that such gradual or incremental coaching may be utilized to assist conversion from any footstrike pattern to any other footstrike pattern, or between different biomechanical movement patterns of other types. 
     In another embodiment, one or more intermediate templates may be used, which may guide a user to a movement pattern that is part-way between the user&#39;s present movement pattern and the ultimate desired movement pattern. As one example, a predominately heel-strike runner trying to convert to a midfoot or forefoot strike may utilize a footstrike template that encourages less of a heel-strike than the runner&#39;s current footstrike, but not as strong of a midfoot or forefoot strike as the ultimate desired movement pattern.  FIG. 27  illustrates an intermediate template  606  located between a runner&#39;s actual movement data  605  and the ultimate desired footstrike template  604 , as described below. Multiple intermediate templates may be utilized in some embodiments to more gradually achieve conversion from one biomechanical movement pattern to another. Intermediate templates may also be subject to gradual use as described above. 
     It is understood that similar gradual use of templates and/or use of intermediate templates may be applied to coaching for other biomechanical movement patterns, and that in other applications, a more or less gradual approach may be appropriate. Additionally, the device  110  and associated software may include algorithms to automate aspects of such gradual or incremental coaching. For example, in one embodiment, the device  110  may automatically engage in gradual template usage and/or intermediate template usage, or may have a user selection feature for such automatic utilization. In another embodiment, the device  110  may provide for specific user selection, such as selection of specific intermediate templates or selection of the rate at which gradual template usage may progress. In a further embodiment, the device  110  may provide for specific user design of templates, including intermediate templates, and for specific user design of training programs. 
       FIGS. 25-28  illustrate graphical depictions of various footstrike pattern templates that may be used according to one embodiment, as well as graphical depictions of comparisons of actual data to such templates. It is understood that  FIGS. 25-28  illustrate conceptual graphical depictions of processing that may occur by the device  110  in analyzing athletic activity. In one embodiment, the device  110  may generate graphical depictions reflecting current/real-time or past analysis that may appear similar to  FIGS. 25-28 , such as by GUI display, printing, or other means.  FIG. 25  illustrates one example of a footstrike template  601  (in broken lines) based on maximum pressure or force measured at locations of the sensors  16  in the sensor systems  12  in  FIGS. 3-4 and 6-8  and  FIGS. 22-23B . Deviation from the template  601  can occur if excessive or insufficient pressure or force is exerted on one or more of the sensors  16 . Hypothetical data  602  collected from an athletic activity is shown as solid bars in  FIG. 25 , and threshold tolerances  603  are also illustrated. As seen in  FIG. 25 , the pressure measured at the heel exceeds the desired value in the template  601  and is outside the threshold tolerance  603 , while the pressure measured at the first and fifth metatarsals are less than the desired values and are also outside the threshold tolerances  603 . Additionally, in this example, the pressure measured at the first phalange is slightly greater than the desired value of the template  601 , but is within the threshold tolerance  603 . Thus, in this example, the data measured at the heel, first metatarsal, and fifth metatarsal would be considered to deviate from the template, and the data measured at the first phalange would be in compliance. This may be read as a footstrike that deviates from the template and constitutes a footstrike that is too heavy at the heel, depending on the rules governing the definition of deviation. In various embodiments, deviation may be considered to occur based on the number of sensors that deviate from or comply with the template, the total degree of deviation from or compliance with the template, or other factors, or a combination of such factors. Furthermore, in one embodiment, the device  110  may display a bar graph similar to  FIG. 25  (using display  308 ) for each footstrike, with the template (i.e. “ideal” footstrike) shown with dynamically moving “actual data” bars so that a runner can monitor each footstrike and adjust as desired. In another embodiment, the template  601  may utilize relative footstrike forces measured at each sensor  16  (e.g. relative to the other sensors  16 ), rather than an absolute force measurement, which may compensate for inaccurate recordation of user weight. 
       FIGS. 26-27  illustrate additional examples of footstrike templates  604  (broken lines), based on both measured pressure and timing/sequence of impacts, measured at locations of the sensors  16  in the sensor systems  12  in  FIGS. 3-4 and 6-8  and  FIGS. 22-23B . Deviation from the template can occur if excessive or insufficient pressure or force is exerted on one or more of the sensors  16  and/or if the sequence of impacts and/or contact time at each of the sensors  16  differs from the desired sequence or timing. Hypothetical data  605  collected from an athletic activity is shown as solid lines in  FIGS. 26-27 . It is understood that threshold tolerances for pressure and/or timing may be used in these embodiments, but are not illustrated. As seen in  FIG. 26 , the pressure measured at the heel exceeds the desired value in the template and occurs at approximately the same timing, but with a larger contact interval. In this same example, the pressure measured at the first and fifth metatarsals is slightly smaller than the desired value in the template  604  and has approximately the same contact interval, but occurs at a later timing than the template  604 . Further, in this example, the pressure measured at the first phalange is approximately the same as the desired value in the template  604  and has approximately the same contact interval, but occurs at a later timing than the template  604 . Depending on the rules governing the definition of deviation, this footstrike may be considered to be too heel-heavy and may constitute a deviation from the template  604 .  FIG. 27  illustrates the same data  605  and template  604  as  FIG. 26 , and also illustrates an intermediate template  606  (dot-dash lines) that can be used in gradually coaching a user&#39;s performance toward the ultimate goal template  604 , as described above. 
       FIG. 28  illustrates a further example of a footstrike template  607  (broken lines), based on timing/sequence of impacts, measured at locations of the sensors  16  in the sensor systems  12  in  FIGS. 3-4 and 6-8  and  FIGS. 22-23B . In this embodiment, the data from the sensors  16  is not dynamic in nature, and consists only of binary “active” and “inactive” data. In other words, the sensors  16  in this embodiment only detect force and do not quantitatively measure force, and when a certain threshold pressure has been applied to the sensor  16 , the system  12  will read that the sensor is “active.” This functioning may be based on the configuration of the module  22  and/or the capabilities of the sensors  16 , in various embodiments. Deviation from the template can occur if the sequence of impacts and/or the contact time at each of the sensors  16  differs from the desired sequence or timing. It is understood that threshold tolerances for timing may be used in these embodiments, but are not illustrated. Hypothetical data  608  collected from an athletic activity is shown as solid lines in  FIG. 28 . As seen in  FIG. 28 , the contact time measured at the heel is greater than that of the template, and the activation of the other three sensors  16  is later than specified by the template. Depending on the rules governing the definition of deviation, this footstrike may be considered to be too heel-focused and may constitute a deviation from the template  607 . 
       FIG. 29  illustrates another embodiment of a potential graphical display that may be generated by the device  110  to indicate deviation (or lack thereof) based on real-time analysis of data. In  FIG. 29 , the device  110  may have a display  308  that depicts one or both of the user&#39;s feet using foot graphics  309 . In this embodiment, different colors or intensities can be used to depict localized force or impact of each footstrike. Additionally, different colors or intensities can be used to depict whether localized force or impact is higher or lower than dictated by the template. In this way, the foot graphics  309  may provide an indication to the user indicating deviation or compliance with the template. It is understood that the “higher” or “lower” impact values may be absolute values in one embodiment, which may depend on the weight of the user, or may be relative values in another embodiment, e.g. the relative force on the heel vs. the midfoot. Different types of graphical displays may be used for different types of sensor systems, such as graphical displays of actual biometric motions for throwing, running, jumping, etc., vs template movement patterns. 
     In one embodiment, the module  22  and/or the electronic device  110  may include a GPS module  209  that is configured to detect the position of the user, as described above. Additionally, in one embodiment, the device  110  may include a mapping application or other such software that may work in conjunction with the data from the GPS module  209 . Such software may also work in connection with environmental information, terrain information, and other information related to the user&#39;s position. “Environmental information,” as used herein, includes information about the environment around the user&#39;s position, such as architectural or historical landmarks, businesses, parks, monuments, museums, recreational areas and activities, and other points of interest. “Terrain information,” as used herein, includes information about the terrain at the user&#39;s position, such as elevation, grade, ground conditions (e.g. rocks, dirt, grass, thick or tall weeds, running or standing water, pavement, swampland, wet or snow-covered ground, indoors, etc.), and other information about the terrain. In one embodiment, environmental information and terrain information may be obtained by communication with an external server or other device, and may involve the device  110  transmitting the user&#39;s position to an external server and receiving information from the external server based on the position information. In other embodiments, at least some environmental and/or terrain information may additionally or alternately be included within the software or may be obtained from computer-readable storage media connected to the device  110 . In a further embodiment, the device  110  may be configured to provide information of upcoming environmental features or terrain changes, based on the user&#39;s path. 
     In one embodiment, the device  110  may include software that generates customized travel routes based on position information received from the GPS module  209 , in combination with environmental information and/or terrain information. Information about the user&#39;s position can be utilized to provide a running path for the user that passes by or through areas that may be of interest to the user. Input from the user may also be utilized, such as input regarding environmental and/or terrain preferences, as well as a specific distance, pace, run time, or other athletic input. For example, in one embodiment, the device  110  may be used to generate a five kilometer running or biking path that passes by notable architectural landmarks. Such landmarks may be specifically identified by the user and/or may be identified automatically by the device  110 . Automatic identification may be performed using an input of the user&#39;s general preference for architectural landmarks, or such landmarks may be identified based on other information. Multiple such preferences may be combined into a single run. In another embodiment, the device  110  may be used to generate a five-kilometer path that passes over certain terrain, such as inclines or declines, certain types of ground, etc. Again, multiple such preferences may be combined into a single run. In a further embodiment, the method may be utilized to generate a path that incorporates both desired environmental characteristics and desired terrain characteristics. The device  110  may also be configured to modify existing travel routes based on the same types of information. 
     In one embodiment, the device  110  may include software that modifies or alters biomechanical movement template usage based on environmental information and/or terrain information. For example, a runner may wish to utilize one footstrike pattern, stride length, lean, etc., for one terrain and a different footstrike pattern, stride length, lean, etc., for another terrain. Such environmental or terrain information may be received from user input in one embodiment, or may be obtained from another source automatically, based on position information received from the GPS module  209 , in combination with environmental information and/or terrain information. Other input from the user may also be utilized, such as input regarding template preferences for specific types of terrain, as well as a specific distance, pace, run time, or other athletic input. Pre-existing rules may be set to govern which terrains are associated with which templates, and such rules may be set by the user and/or automatically assigned. In one embodiment, a user may manually indicate terrain information to the device  110  (e.g. by selection from a list), and the device  110  can automatically switch to a different template based on such terrain information, if necessary. In another embodiment, terrain information may be automatically obtained, based on position information, such as by communication with an external device as described above. The device may modify the biomechanical movement template based on the terrain information, as described below, which may include changing the template and/or switching to a different template. 
       FIG. 30  illustrates one embodiment of a method  700  for providing a template for use as described above, which incorporates terrain information acquired based on the user&#39;s position detected by the GPS module  209 . It is understood that the device  110  and/or certain components within the device  110  (e.g. processor  302  and/or memory  304 ) may be used in performing this method  700 . The device  110  receives position information for the user from the GPS  209 , at step  710 . The device  110  may then generate an indication of the user&#39;s position in one embodiment, such as on a map graphic on the display  308 , at step  720 . The user&#39;s position need not be indicated, and may be optional in another embodiment. The device  110  then acquires terrain information based on the user&#39;s position, at step  730 . As described above, the terrain information may be acquired from information stored in the memory  304  or other storage media connected to the device  110 , from an external server or other device  110 , or a combination of such means. The device  110  may continuously update terrain information as the position information changes, and if no change in terrain is detected, at step  740 , then the process repeats by receiving more position information (at  710 ) and proceeding as described above. If a different terrain is detected, at step  740 , then the device  110  determines whether a different biomechanical movement template is required, at step  750 . If a different template is not required, then the process repeats by receiving more position information (at  710 ) and proceeding as described above. If a different template is required, then the device  110  alters the template based on the different terrain, at step  760 . In one embodiment, the altering is performed automatically by the device  110  based on pre-existing rules. In such a configuration, the fact that the template has been altered may be indicated to the user in one embodiment, and the indication may be done visually, audibly, and/or tactilely. In another embodiment, the device  110  may alter the template by prompting the user to manually select a different template, and may optionally provide a limited list of templates that may be considered suitable based on pre-existing rules. In one embodiment, the device  110  can conduct the method  700  for multiple different movement templates simultaneously, including multiple templates based on input from a single sensor system  12  and/or from multiple sensor systems  12 . It is understood that the method  700  may be used in connection with a pre-plotted route. For example, the method  700  may be used for a marathon route, and can assist the user by identifying necessary changes in biomechanical movement based on changing terrain, as well as notifying the user of upcoming terrain changes and associated movement changes. The device  110  may also be configured to dynamically update the route if the data from the GPS module  209  indicates that the user is not following the route. 
     In one embodiment, the device  110  may include software to coach a user when transitioning to a new footwear type. For example, this system may be used when transitioning from traditional footwear to minimal footwear for the avoidance of injuries. In particular, minimal footwear structures are configured to cooperatively articulate, flex, stretch, or otherwise move to provide an individual with a sensation of natural, barefoot running. The sole structure of minimal footwear is generally thinner throughout its length with less cushioning than traditional footwear and little or no heel-to-toe drop (the change in elevation of footwear from at least a portion of the heel to at least a portion of a non-heel region, e.g., any portion of the foot that is distal to the heel, such as the arch, metatarsus, forefoot, toe region, and combinations thereof). For example, traditional running footwear has a heel-toe ramp resulting from a vertical heel-to-toe drop of 12 mm or more. Minimal footwear, on the other hand, has a substantially zero heel-to-toe drop. Partial minimal footwear, a configuration between a traditional and a minimal structure, has a 4-12 mm heel-to-toe drop. The configuration of most minimal footwear structures results in a different distribution of stress throughout the feet and the body, e.g., when running. For example, experienced minimal footwear runners tend to strike the ground in the midfoot or forefoot regions and have substantially no vertical impact transient on ground impact. Traditional footwear wearers, on the other hand, tend to have a more posterior strike pattern (a heel-first footstrike), a higher vertical impact transient, as well as greater dorsiflexion of the foot and less knee flexion at foot strike. 
     Wearers transitioning to minimal footwear running shoes often do not sufficiently alter their biomechanics to properly adapt to the minimal footwear conditions and are consequentially more likely to suffer injuries when switching to the minimal footwear type. Thus, a transitional coaching program may be desired to acclimate a wearer to a different footwear type (e.g., minimal, partial minimal) in order to properly transition to the biomechanics associated with the new footwear while minimizing chances of injuries. For example, a program for transitioning a user from traditional footwear to minimal footwear may include coaching towards a plantar-flexed ankle at footstrike, shorter ground contact, reduced knee flexion, and/or reduced heel pressure at footstrike. Accordingly, systems and methods of the present disclosure may be used for a footwear transitional program to transition a user from a first footwear type to a second footwear type (e.g., from traditional footwear to minimal footwear, from partial minimal footwear to minimal footwear, and the like). 
     In certain embodiments, the plurality of sensors  16  are located in different locations on the article of footwear. A footstrike pattern of a user can be detected based on a sequence of the forces sensed by the sensors and/or a level of the forces sensed by the sensors  16  transmitting force data to an electronic device  110  through sensor leads  18  or through wireless transmission. The electronic device  110  compares the data to a desired footstrike pattern corresponding to the footwear type. The sensors may also be configured to measure a pressure distribution under the wearer&#39;s foot so as be able to obtain pressure distribution data and compare such data to a foot pressure template corresponding to the footwear type. Specific areas of the foot, e.g., the midfoot, may receive increased stress during an athletic activity such as running due to a different movement of the foot with minimal footwear. Accordingly, these specific areas can be targeted more closely than others via placement of the sensors. Leg biomechanics also change when transitioning types of footwear. Thus, a leg sensor system, such as legwear  91  of  FIGS. 18-19  may also be provided in order to sense force exerted on a leg of a user. The sensed force on the leg can then be compared to a desired biomechanical leg movement pattern to determine whether a deviation from the biomechanical movement template exists. 
     In one embodiment, the footwear transitional program includes one or more desired footstrike templates which correspond to the footwear type to which the user is transitioning. In use, the electronic device compares data received from the sensor system to a footstrike template corresponding to a desired footstrike pattern. The electronic device determines whether a deviation from the desired footstrike template exists in order to train a wearer towards a preferred footstrike corresponding to the particular footwear type. For example, a deviation may be determined to exist if the degree of deviation exceeds a predetermined threshold. 
     During a particular activity, a user may periodically receive indications and/or alerts, e.g., by the electronic device transmitting a signal to a second electronic device, such as an external device held by the user during the activity. The indications notify a user when deviations are determined and the alerts notify a user if a number of deviations exceeds a predetermined deviation threshold. The indications and alerts may be visual, audible, and/or tactile depending on the electronic device capabilities and/or a user selection. For example, in some embodiments, the indications and alerts may provide specific coaching guidelines to a user during an athletic activity, such as “Strike the ground closer to the forefoot” or “Maintain shorter ground contact.” In some other embodiments, the indications and alerts may be less specific, and may include, for example, a number of beeps and/or visual flashes or differing intensity or repetition depending on the type or severity of the indication/alert. Alternatively, or in addition to receiving indications throughout an activity, the total count of deviations may be provided at the end of the activity. A user may also opt to have the system record data throughout the course of a particular athletic activity, e.g., during a run. 
     In addition to analyzing and comparing footstrike data to desired patterns, the system can recommend a relative usage amount for a subsequent footwear wearing period. Upon completion of the athletic activity session, the system may provide feedback to the user based on data recorded during the activity and a desired footstrike pattern of the footwear. For example, the feedback may include an activity report for a subsequent athletic activity session, e.g., a suggested distance and speed for a next run. For instance, if a high amount or number of deviations were recorded during the athletic activity session, the subsequent activity report may recommend an activity of lesser distance and/or lower speed than the prior activity. Conversely, if few or no deviations were recorded during an athletic activity session, the subsequent activity report may be of greater distance and/or higher speed than the prior activity. The feedback may also include a stretching activity following the athletic activity session based on sensed deviations from the desired footstrike pattern of the footwear. The suggested stretching exercises may include calf stretching and strengthening in addition to stretching and strengthening the foot. The system may also prompt a user for input relating to a perceived discomfort during an athletic activity which may include a level of discomfort and/or specifying a general area of discomfort (the arch, the heel, the calf, and the like). Accordingly, the perceived discomfort input may affect the feedback reported to the user. Over the duration of the footwear transitional program, the device is configured to record a plurality of athletic activities for a particular user. The transitional program may be a preset duration, e.g., a number of athletic activities, or a total time and/or distance of recorded data as provided by positional data from the GPS module. In some embodiments, the duration of the transitional footwear program may change throughout the program, e.g., based on a number or frequency of recorded deviations until, for instance, a deviation count threshold is reached. 
     The footwear transitional program may include a single desired footstrike pattern or a plurality of footstrike patterns which change throughout the footwear transitional program. For example, for a minimal footwear transition program, an initial desired footstrike pattern may allow for some amount of a heel-first footstrike without determining a deviation, at a beginning of the program. Similarly, a final desired footstrike pattern may be a midfoot or forefoot footstrike and the device will determine a deviation to exist if any portion of the heel is sensed to strike the ground during initial impact of the foot. Generally, the final desired footstrike pattern will substantially correspond to a most preferred footstrike pattern for the footwear type. The footstrike patterns may vary during the footwear transitional program based on a designated amount of usage, e.g., a total record time and/or distance or a number of athletic activities. This iterative arrangement may aid in slowly transitioning the user from the first footwear type to the second footwear type while minimizing injuries due to the transition. 
     The footwear transitional program may also be customizable by a user type. For example, a user may select a customizable footwear transition program based on at least one of age, weight, gender, excursion distance, and speed. Accordingly, various aspects of the transitional footwear program may change based on customization. Depending on the various customization factors, the transitional program may have a duration of a few weeks to several months to adjust and coach a user to a new footwear type in order to prevent or minimize any such transition-related injuries. In another example, the number of iterations of footstrike patterns in the footwear transitional program may be also vary based on the particular user. In some embodiments, a user may select a footwear transition program from a plurality of footwear transition program templates, e.g., corresponding to a particular footwear type and/or a type of user. Accordingly, each footwear transitional program may have a plurality of footstrike templates, potentially of a differing total number of templates and/or differing in the desired footstrike patterns included in each program. Additionally or alternatively, the footwear transition program may be automatically selected by the system based on data collected from previous athletic activity sessions (e.g., historical running data, walking data, and the like). Accordingly, the system may use historical data stored for the user, in conjunction with an identified new type of footwear, to determine a footwear transition program for the user. 
     In some embodiments, the system may establish an end to the transition program once foot strike patterns exhibit a proper transition to the footwear type. For example, as a user acclimates to a minimal footwear, the user should eventually develop a footstrike pattern wherein the mid-foot region strikes first rather than the heel. Once this footstrike pattern is detected (e.g., via sensor data, number of deviations, etc.) the system may determine that the user has successfully transitioned to the new footwear type and the program may end. In some examples, the end of the transition program may be transmitted to the user (e.g., via an audio or visual congratulatory message, or the like). 
     The transitional footwear program need not be limited to running. For example, minimal shoes have been found to be beneficial to elderly persons, and therefore the above transition program can be incorporated effectively at a slower pace than running. 
     As described above, in one embodiment, one or more templates may be created by the user by recording an actual movement pattern of the user. In one embodiment, a user may identify an “ideal” movement pattern or series of movement patterns and create one or more templates for future activity, as well as incorporating other information from the recorded movement pattern for such future activity. For example, a user may perform what is considered to be an “ideal” run, including at least one ideal biometric movement pattern, such as an ideal footstrike pattern, stride length, footstrike force, etc., and may set such ideal biometric movement pattern(s) as one or more templates (e.g. by using the device  110 ). Other information about the ideal run may be recorded as well, such as the distance, speed, route, estimated calories burned, etc., and this information may be used to create an “ideal run” template for the user to follow to re-create the run. Similar techniques may be used for other activities. 
     In another embodiment, the device  110  and associate software may provide the ability for a user to review performance metrics from a previous activity and identify areas of success and/or areas that need improvement. This feature may be incorporated into the creation of the “ideal” activity described above, and may provide the ability for the user to modify certain aspects of the template(s) for the “ideal” activity. Additionally, the recordation of past performance metrics can enable the user to track performance, improvement, trends, progress, etc., over time, and the device  110  may provide such past data for access and review. Types of information tracked by the device  110  may include degree of success with compliance to various templates as well as additional information including, without limitation, speed, distance, steps or repetitions, energy used, jump height/distance, stride length, and any other information mentioned elsewhere herein. Recorded data from an activity may be uploaded from the recording device  110  to another device  110 , such as through “sync” procedures used in the art. One or more devices  110  can thereby record accumulated performance metric data for a number of different activities over time, and further processing and refining can be performed to present such data in a form that is easy for the user to review. In one embodiment, recorded data and/or analyzed data may be uploaded to a remote server/website for access through a webpage, and may additionally be shared with an online “community,” where users can compare progress and activity with other users. The online community may have filtering capabilities as well, for example, to permit the user to compare information with others having similar physical build, activity level, age, etc. The online community may also have “challenge” capabilities to allow one user to challenge another user in achieving an accomplishment, such as more consistently conforming to a biomechanical movement template. Data and other information obtained from the user may also be used in a social networking context as described below, and it is understood that the social networking may be integrated with or otherwise associated with the online community. Further, devices  110  used in connection with such performance metrics can form a detailed user profile that includes performance data, as well as relevant personal and other information, in one embodiment. Such a user profile may also be used for an online community as described above and/or for social networking, as described below. As more data is collected, the device(s)  110  can offer more closely customized data presentations, analysis, and suggestions or indications for improvement. 
     In one embodiment, the device  110  and associated software may provide one or more data entry screens for the user to enter personal data that can be used to build the user profile. For example, the user may be prompted to enter physical data that may influence system performance and template selection, such as age, gender, height, weight, etc. As another example, the user may be prompted to enter identifying information, such as name, birthdate, login information (e.g. username and password), etc. As a further example, the user may be prompted to enter preference information, such as interests, terrain and/or environmental preferences as described above, color and layout preferences, and general software functionality preferences, including feedback preferences such as the form(s) of the indications of success/failure, what data is collected, analyzed, and/or displayed, and other functionality preferences. As yet another example, the user may be prompted to enter data regarding a planned future activity that will utilize the device  110  and system  400 , such as the length and intensity of the activity, specific goals of the activity, desired functionality of the device  110  for the activity, and other such information. 
     The device  110  and associated software may also be configured to accept incorporation of new hardware and peripherals (e.g. new sensor systems  12 , augmented reality devices, etc.), and the device  110  may be configured to accept data input from, and communicate with, various different types of hardware. As new hardware is added (e.g. new sensor systems  12 ), the user profile may be updated accordingly. 
     In another embodiment, the device  110  and associated software may provide guidance to the user to assist in compliance to a biomechanical movement template. For example, for a template for running cadence or pace, the device  110  may provide a song or beat with a rhythm or tempo that corresponds to the desired cadence or pace. Other examples are recognizable to those skilled in the art. 
     In another embodiment, the device  110  and associated software may provide safety features that are activated when the device  110  senses an accident (e.g. a fall) based on data received from the sensor system  12 . For example, the device  110  may detect a fall or other major discontinuity in data, and may prompt the user to confirm whether a safety or health issue exists. If the user indicates that an issue exists, or if no response is received in a set time period, the device  110  may contact emergency responders, such as by phone call, SMS, email, or other means. Depending on the capability of various sensors, the device  110  may also be able to relay information such as respiration, heart rate, temperature, etc. 
     In another embodiment, the device  110  and associated software may be used in connection with social networking applications. For example, performance metric data may be compared with data from other social networking contacts. As another example, collected performance metric data may be translated into “points” or “credits” for social networking games, where the user is able to modify or further play such games using such points or credits. This can provide an additional source of encouragement to the user for reaching performance and exercise goals. 
     As will be appreciated by one of skill in the art upon reading the present disclosure, various aspects described herein may be embodied as a method, a data processing system, or a computer program product. Accordingly, those aspects may take the form of an entirely hardware embodiment, an entirely software embodiment or an embodiment combining software and hardware aspects. Furthermore, such aspects may take the form of a computer program product stored by one or more tangible computer-readable storage media or storage devices having computer-readable program code, or instructions, embodied in or on the storage media. Any suitable tangible computer readable storage media may be utilized, including hard disks, CD-ROMs, optical storage devices, magnetic storage devices, and/or any combination thereof. In addition, various intangible signals representing data or events as described herein may be transferred between a source and a destination in the form of electromagnetic waves traveling through signal-conducting media such as metal wires, optical fibers, and/or wireless transmission media (e.g., air and/or space). 
     As described above, aspects of the present invention may be described in the general context of computer-executable instructions, such as program modules, being executed by a computer and/or a processor thereof. Generally, program modules include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, etc. that perform particular tasks or implement particular abstract data types. Such a program module may be contained in a tangible, non-transitory computer-readable medium, as described above. Aspects of the present invention may also be practiced in distributed computing environments where tasks are performed by remote processing devices that are linked through a communications network. Program modules may be located in a memory, such as the memory  204  of the module  22  or memory  304  of the external device  110 , or an external medium, such as game media  307 , which may include both local and remote computer storage media including memory storage devices. It is understood that the module  22 , the external device  110 , and/or external media may include complementary program modules for use together, such as in a particular application. It is also understood that a single processor  202 ,  302  and single memory  204 ,  304  are shown and described in the module  22  and the external device  110  for sake of simplicity, and that the processor  202 ,  302  and memory  204 ,  304  may include a plurality of processors and/or memories respectively, and may comprise a system of processors and/or memories. 
     The various embodiments of the athletic activity analysis system described herein provide benefits and advantages over existing technology. For example, sensor systems, devices, and methods as described herein can provide detailed automated coaching to guide a user toward changing biometric movement patterns in a safe, healthy, and efficient manner. Embodiments described herein can also provide enhanced ability for the user to monitor his/her performance, both dynamically in real-time, as well as retrospectively. Embodiments described herein can also provide guidance and assistance for a user to improve performance during an activity. Embodiments described herein can further provide assistance to runners, bikers, triathletes, etc., in designing travel routes for workouts, as well as negotiating unfamiliar travel routes. Other advantages are recognizable to those skilled in the art. 
     Several alternative embodiments and examples have been described and illustrated herein. A person of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate the features of the individual embodiments, and the possible combinations and variations of the components. A person of ordinary skill in the art would further appreciate that any of the embodiments could be provided in any combination with the other embodiments disclosed herein. It is understood that the invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or central characteristics thereof. The present examples and embodiments, therefore, are to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive, and the invention is not to be limited to the details given herein. The terms “first,” “second,” “top,” “bottom,” etc., as used herein, are intended for illustrative purposes only and do not limit the embodiments in any way. Additionally, the term “plurality,” as used herein, indicates any number greater than one, either disjunctively or conjunctively, as necessary, up to an infinite number. Further, “Providing” an article or apparatus, as used herein, refers broadly to making the article available or accessible for future actions to be performed on the article, and does not connote that the party providing the article has manufactured, produced, or supplied the article or that the party providing the article has ownership or control of the article. Accordingly, while specific embodiments have been illustrated and described, numerous modifications come to mind without significantly departing from the spirit of the invention and the scope of protection is only limited by the scope of the accompanying Claims.