h a l f b a k e r yNot so much a thought experiment as a single neuron misfire.
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This shoe insert collects energy from a normal gait, which in forward is a heel-toe sequence. Pressure detectors in the insole can determine a backward step (toe-heel sequence) and issue a standard ear-piercing BEEP-BEEP-BEEP like those irritating trucks in reverse.
This would have the potential to
prevent tragic sidewalk and hallway collisions caused by people walking carelessly in reverse.
Backward walking endorsed by scientists
http://latimesblogs...-study-publish.html Researchers say backward walking helps clear thinking. [molecat, May 11 2009]
Thesis on the subject of Gait predicition
http://alexandria.t...xtra2/200513195.pdf noteworthy: p.22: 'the three rockers of the foot' [loonquawl, May 13 2009]
[link]
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It beeps with only 1 step back? A lot of people step backward when they are simply adjusting their stationary position. Then what? Frantic beeping for nothing? |
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This would simply be awesome. [+] |
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*do* people walk backwards *that* much? |
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Yes, when they're carrying sofas |
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//*do* people walk backwards *that* much// |
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It happens often enough for it to be one of my pet peeves. |
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But let us say that you happened to be walking backwards for no particular reason. You are more likely to collide with someone before they could hear the first beep. And by the time they heard it, they wouldnt be able to move fast enough. Besides, isn't the burden of not bumping into someone on the walker himself and not the person standing behind him. |
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This is sooooo halfbakerish! BEEP BEEP
BEEP! +++ |
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this could be extended to the whole array of lights & sounds ususal in a car. Most movements are predictable from the current gait (if they are predictable to the walker), so changing direction and impeding deceleration could both be signalled. Additionally, unusual dragging of feet could elicit a daydream-walk-warning. |
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I like this even better today. And I loved it a
whole bunch before. |
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I usually make the sound myself. [+] |
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[link] (careful - 16MB) for thesis on measuring pressure on sole to predict movement of walker. pretty fascinating stuff. |
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