While hoverboards and the multichannel big screen seem to have fallen by the wayside, the self-lacing sneaks from Back To Future might soon be coming to a retailer near you.
Nike’s 2009 patent filing for a self-lacing shoe recently surfaced and it seems to be a splitting image of the shoe in the movie, right down to the method of lacing (the button at the heel you see in the image).
The Technology Behind Self-Lacing Shoes
The concept of self-lacing shoes is not just a whimsical idea from a sci-fi movie; it involves intricate technology. The patent reveals that the shoe uses a small motor and a series of sensors to detect when the shoe is being worn. Once the sensors are activated, the motor tightens the laces to a pre-set tension, ensuring a snug fit. This technology could be particularly beneficial for athletes who need consistent shoe tightness for optimal performance, or for individuals with disabilities who find it challenging to tie their shoes.
It also seems to have a lighting system, again like in the movie, to give your shoe a cool, LED glow. The LED lights are not just for aesthetics; they can serve practical purposes such as increasing visibility during night-time activities. Imagine jogging in the evening with shoes that light up, making you more visible to drivers and other pedestrians.
Potential Market and Consumer Interest
It’s all up in the air whether this will become a real product or not but I for one hope it does. The market for such innovative footwear is growing, with consumers increasingly looking for products that offer both functionality and a touch of futuristic flair. It will be likely though that this will be a limited edition ultra-expensive shoe but seriously, would you actually risk scuffing a vintage retro-futuristic piece of consumer art?
Nike has a history of releasing limited edition products that become instant collectibles. For example, the Nike Air Mag, another shoe inspired by Back to the Future, was released in limited quantities and fetched thousands of dollars at auction. If the self-lacing shoes do hit the market, they could follow a similar trajectory, becoming highly sought-after items among sneaker enthusiasts and collectors.
Now how about that jacket Marty McFly (or his son) was always wearing? The self-drying, size-adjusting jacket from the movie also captured the imagination of fans. While we haven’t seen a real-life version of this jacket yet, advancements in smart textiles and wearable technology suggest that it might not be too far off. Companies are already developing fabrics that can change their properties based on environmental conditions, so a self-drying jacket could be the next big thing in wearable tech.
The emergence of Nike’s self-lacing shoe patent is a fascinating development that bridges the gap between science fiction and reality. Whether or not these shoes become widely available, they represent a significant step forward in the integration of technology and fashion. As we continue to innovate, who knows what other futuristic gadgets from our favorite movies will become part of our everyday lives?
via WIPO
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