Blake Bevin decided to create a pair of shoes where the shoelaces would tie themselves at the press of a button, just like in Back to the Future II, and came up with this fun invention.
The Self Tying Shoe Lace uses an Arduino microcontroller and a pair of Nike sneakers, and Blake describes them as ‘this project is less ‘Practical’ than ‘Proof of Concept’, but hopefully it’ll tide you over until Nike comes out with something more polished.’
The Inspiration Behind the Invention
The inspiration for this innovative project came from the iconic movie Back to the Future II, where Marty McFly sports a pair of self-tying sneakers. This futuristic vision captivated audiences and sparked the imagination of many, including Blake Bevin. The idea of shoes that could tie themselves seemed like a distant dream, but with advancements in technology, Blake saw an opportunity to bring this concept to life, even if just as a prototype.
How It Works
The core of the Self Tying Shoe Lace system is an Arduino microcontroller, a versatile and widely-used piece of hardware in the DIY electronics community. The Arduino is programmed to control small motors that pull the laces tight when a button is pressed. This setup is integrated into a pair of Nike sneakers, chosen for their popularity and design that could accommodate the additional hardware.
Blake’s project, while not intended for everyday use, serves as a proof of concept. It demonstrates that with the right components and a bit of ingenuity, even the most futuristic ideas can be realized. The system includes sensors and actuators that work together to mimic the action of tying shoelaces, providing a glimpse into what the future of footwear might hold.
Future Implications and Innovations
While Blake’s self-tying shoes are a remarkable achievement, they are just the beginning. The project opens the door to numerous possibilities in the realm of smart footwear. Imagine shoes that can adjust their fit based on the wearer’s activity, or even shoes that can monitor health metrics such as steps taken, calories burned, and more. The integration of technology into everyday items like shoes could revolutionize the way we interact with our clothing and accessories.
Moreover, this invention highlights the potential for DIY enthusiasts and hobbyists to contribute to technological advancements. With platforms like Arduino and resources available on websites like Instructables, anyone with a passion for innovation can create something extraordinary. Blake’s project serves as an inspiration for others to explore their ideas and push the boundaries of what is possible.
Very cool, now all we need is someone to invent a Hoverboard from Back to the Future II.
Instructables via Make, Dvice,
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