Design Summary Analysis Draft #2

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Name: Benedict Cheong
ID: 1902828
Title: First draft of an article summary


In the article “Smart Running Shoes: Will They Change The Way You Run?”, Lin (2017) discusses the functions and features of different versions of the Altra smart running shoes. In 2011, the first model of Altra IQ was introduced to the market. Sensors are incorporated in the soles of the shoes which can deliver “Real-time stride analysis”. The responses will then be relayed through smart devices such as "smartwatches, phones, and earbuds". In 2017, engineers who invented the Altra smart shoes claimed that it was designed to not only record statistics but also “help runners avoid repetitive injuries” by tracking the user's "footfalls in real-time” via an app. An audio assistant prompts the user to rectify their movements to prevent injury. Finally, Lin (2017) asserts that the unique functions do not compromise the ergonomics of the shoes. Advancing to the smart technology era, I believe that several functions of the smart technology in Altra running shoes allow us to be more efficient in daily outdoor activities or training as compared to using normal running shoes.

One of the main highlights of the Altra shoe is the way it incorporates ‘real-time stride analysis’ technology into the running shoes. A stride means a complete step made on every foot movement. ‘Real-time stride analysis’ means that it is actively collecting the data base on the user foot movement on the go. From there, these data will be sent to smart devices to be analyzed. After every run, all these data will be reflected in the app or smart devices to allow the user to have a better understanding regarding their running form. According to Businesswise (2015) website, the method of collecting these movement data is done by mounting a ‘razor-thin, multi-sensor system’ in the middle of the sole. This system monitors a variety of running information, such as the exact moment where the user does a stride, ‘ground contact time’, foot-specific pressure’, pace, time and distance, to name a few. The transferring of data is done through Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) to the smart device, which displays information about the user’s running form.

Not only does the Altra shoe provide information about the user running form, but it also provides suggestions on how to further improve the user running form through their ‘iFit’ app or smart devices. In-Voice audio is incorporated, acting as a coach to provide feedback on how to improve running form, on the go or after the run. This is to say during the running, voice audio responds to the user for them to correct their movement if any. One of the niche features of the voice audio is that the user can choose how frequently the user wants the coach audio to provide feedback. The user can still listen to music while doing their run as the voice coach will only prompt the user depending on the settings the user has set. To name a few examples of what kind of feedback the coach audio provides are mainly, feedback to fix running posture, whether if the user is using more strength on the left or right foot and if the user is striding too loudly. (Harper, 2016) mention that “this shoe is designed to help new runners avoid poor technique and make experienced runners more efficient when pounding the pavement.” This feature will be an upgrade to enhance the running experience for both new and experienced runners. 

 In conclusion, the ability to use smart technologies to improve their running form without the need for coaching justifies the heftier price tag of these Altra IQ shoes. Even with all this implementation of smart technologies, the basic function and ergonomics of a running shoe is not compromised.  

References


Altra. (2015, August 04). Altra Running Introduces the Altra IQ Powered by iFit, the World’s First Shoe-Able. Retrieved from BusinessWire: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20150804006922/en/Altra-Running-Introduces-Altra-IQ-Powered-iFit
Lin, N. (2017, August 20). Smart Running Shoes: Will They Change The Way You Run? Retrieved from: runsociety. https://www.runsociety.com/opinions/smart-running-shoes-will-they-change-the-way-you-run/
Palladino, V. (2017, March 03). Altra Torin IQ smart shoes review: Putting a coach and convenience at your feet. Retrieved from arstechnica: https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2017/05/altra-torin-iq-smart-shoes-review-putting-a-coach-and-convenience-at-your-feet/




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