What it does
Elan is a smart basketball shoe that helps prevent ankle injuries by tracking strain, impact, fatigue, and risky movements in real time. It uses energy-harvesting sensors and alerts players via a light and an app, promoting safer, more informed gameplay.
Your inspiration
My inspiration came from research showing how common and severe injuries are in basketball, especially to the ankles. I conducted 30 structured surveys and two in-depth interviews with basketball coaches, which confirmed that most players continue playing through injuries without real-time feedback. Ankle injuries alone account for 21.9% of all cases, yet prevention strategies are limited. Players often underestimate the risk, leading to longer recovery times. With footwear identified as the most effective prevention tool, I saw an opportunity to create a smart solution that alerts players and helps them make safer decisions during play.
How it works
Elan features built-in IMU sensors that monitor ankle strain, impact, muscle fatigue, and risky movements in real-time. When it detects potential injury risks, a subtle logo light alerts the player, and data is sent to the Elan app with live notifications and insights. Powered by piezoelectric sensors, the shoe captures energy from movement, using only 1–10 mW per hour and generating bursts of 10 –100 mW during intense play. Velcro ankle and mid-foot straps provide a secure, stable fit, while a textured sole improves grip and prevents slips. A split outsole boosts flexibility and weight distribution, enhancing both movement and energy harvesting. A rear ventilation slot increases airflow and keeps feet cool. The Elan app tracks injury risks, impact levels, and fatigue over time to help athletes monitor performance and recovery. With smart tracking, energy efficiency, and ergonomic support, Elan keeps players safe, focused, and confident on the court.
Design process
Elan began with seven unique concepts focused on injury prevention and support for basketball players. These included 1. high-top sneakers with taping tech, 2. EVA foam soles with athletic tape, 3. sensor-equipped sleeves, 4. heated knee braces,5. Snug-fit shoes with custom insoles, 6. ankle braces with optical strain sensors, and 7. knee braces for muscle oxygen tracking. After gathering feedback, the most promising ideas were the taped sneaker (Concept 1) and the ankle strain-tracking brace (Concept 6). Combining these led to the Elan sneaker. A smart, sensor integrated shoe with energy-harvesting features. Early prototypes focused on sensor placement and user experience, but testing showed discomfort from the piezoelectric sensors in the sole. This led to a redesign inspired by boxing and running shoes, introducing a split sole system with four key parts: an insole, a thick rear midsole, a front outsole, and a rear outsole. This updated structure improved comfort, flexibility, stability, and allowed for more efficient sensor placement, shaping Elan into a wearable solution for injury prevention
How it is different
What makes Elan different from existing basketball footwear and injury prevention products already existing in the field, Is its combination of advanced technology, customization, and user-focused design. Unlike most basketball shoes that focus primarily on cushioning, traction, and fit, Elan integrates wearable technology to actively track injury risks in real-time, a feature still missing in most mainstream footwear. In addition, while ankle and knee taping has been proven effective in injury prevention, most shoes do not incorporate this feature. Elan's taping-inspired ankle and midsole strap provides the benefits of taping without the discomfort or restriction of traditional braces, ensuring both support and flexibility.
Future plans
The next steps for Elan are all about making it more accessible and adaptable for athletes. Since most players have their favorite shoes, I'm working on a customizable sole with piezoelectric sensors and modular ankle sensors that can be added to any footwear. I’ll keep refining the prototype to improve comfort, accuracy, and energy efficiency. I also plan to partner with shoe brands and sports programs, while enhancing the app to track performance and injury risk. Elan’s goal is to protect players without compromising their style or performance.
Awards
Elan was a finalist and runner-up for the Street and Garden Industrial Design Award, which recognises students who demonstrate academic excellence, strong research, and well-resolved design solutions addressing real-world problems with industry-relevant skills.
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