Running Shoe With Integrated Electrochromic Displays

We present the initial prototype of a running shoe with integrated electrochromic (EC) information displays. The flexibility of the displays and the possibility to create displays in any shape make the technology particularly suited for seamless integration in running shoes, supporting the shoe's overall design aesthetic. Our prototype implementation includes a segmented display in the toe-box area of the shoe, suitable for display of goal achievement and a side display, showing the wear-and-tear state of the shoe. The EC displays are driven by an Arduino microcontroller, battery and sensors, embedded in the sole. As next steps, the shoe will be evaluated in trials with experienced runners.