"The system, tested in prototype form by NPR at the company's headquarters, consists of fairly standard-looking sneakers with a carbon fiber plate running through the soles. These sneakers are attached at the back to close-fitting, 3D-printed titanium leg shells that cinch to the calves. The battery-powered contraptions, containing complex motors, sensors and circuitry, weigh a couple of pounds and look like something out of Terminator or RoboCop."
""What it's doing is learning how your ankles are moving, how long your steps are, taking the algorithms and customizing them for you," said Alison Sheets-Singer, Project Amplify's lead scientist. "So that when it turns on, it feels natural and smooth." A phone app powers the footwear system on and off and can be used to toggle between various speed settings in "walk" and "run" mode."
Nike's Project Amplify pairs standard-looking sneakers with carbon fiber plates and 3D-printed titanium leg shells that attach behind the calves. The system uses batteries, motors, sensors and algorithms to learn ankle motion and step length and to customize assistance for walking and running. A smartphone app powers the unit and toggles speed settings between walk and run modes. Prototype units weigh a few pounds and include complex circuitry. The system targets everyday athletes and aims to provide extra energy, speed, distance and confidence in daily mobility. Nike plans a commercial launch in 2028.
Read at www.npr.org
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