Comfort-Lab Inc.

Foot Navi: a balance analysis interface

Comfort-Lab’s Foot Navi system uses charge-coupling technology to image customers’ feet, then calculates foot length and width from the image using computer analysis. With the foot size and sole pressure data, Foot Navi accurately computes the positions of the foot’s centers of gravity to determine the balance of the foot. In addition, deviations in foot pressure are determined at the front and center portions of the foot to automatically classify the foot as one of 54 different types. Fluctuations in the centers of gravity is also measured.

Once the foot type has been determined, the appropriate insole is displayed to provide care that matches the foot’s unique needs. The insole is then created with a customized pad and base designed from the measurements so no specialized knowledge is required to use the Foot Navi system. They also sell shoes, socks, corrective underwear and other apparel as well as providing health care services.

The Comfort-Lab Foot Navi is an application developed using research performed at a medical university. With assistance from the Osaka Healthcare Service Industry Collaboration Platform, the kinematic principles of the system have been demonstrated at the College of Science and Engineering at Ritsumeikan University, and the effectiveness at preventing foot fatigue has been shown at Soiken.