Shoe mold manufacturing auxiliary device and shoe mold manufacturing system

Abstract

The present application provides a shoe mold manufacturing assistance device and a shoe mold manufacturing system that assist in selecting an optimal shoe mold model that meets conditions from among a plurality of shoe mold models. The shoe mold manufacturing assistance device (100) includes: a reception unit (131) that receives information related to a user's shoe; a calculation unit (132) that selects at least one shoe mold model from among a plurality of shoe mold models that differ in manufacturing method, based on the information received by the reception unit (131), and calculates manufacturing data for a shoe mold corresponding to the selected shoe mold model; and an output unit (108) that outputs the manufacturing data calculated by the calculation unit (132).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an auxiliary device for shoe mold making and a shoe mold making system. Background Technology

[0002] When making custom-made shoes that fit a user, a measuring device is used to measure the foot shape, and shoe mold data is generated based on the measured foot shape data. Based on the generated shoe mold data, a shoe mold (shoe last) is made for making shoes (e.g., Japanese Patent No. 6685303). Summary of the Invention

[0003] Previously, shoe molds for making custom shoes were created using a cutting machine or a 3D printer. However, in recent years, shoe molds made using various methods have been developed. In this disclosure, shoe molds made using different methods are labeled with model names; for example, shoe molds made using a cutting machine are called cutting machine models, and shoe molds made using a 3D printer are called 3D printer models. These shoe molds made using different methods are collectively referred to as shoe mold models.

[0004] When faced with multiple shoe mold models made using different methods, it is necessary to consider factors such as the precision, cost, and production time of the shoes to be made in order to select the optimal shoe mold model. However, selecting the optimal shoe mold model that meets the requirements from multiple models with different manufacturing methods requires experience or know-how, which is a heavy burden for shoe mold makers.

[0005] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide a shoe mold making auxiliary device and a shoe mold making system including the shoe mold making auxiliary device, wherein the shoe mold making auxiliary device assists in selecting the optimal shoe mold model that meets the conditions from a plurality of shoe mold models.

[0006] The shoe mold making auxiliary device disclosed herein includes: a receiving unit for receiving information related to a user's shoes; a calculation unit for selecting at least one shoe mold model from a variety of shoe mold models with different manufacturing methods based on the information received by the receiving unit, and calculating shoe mold making data corresponding to the selected shoe mold model; and an output unit for outputting the making data calculated by the calculation unit.

[0007] A shoe mold making system disclosed herein includes: a shoe mold making auxiliary device for calculating shoe mold making data; and a shoe mold making device for making shoe molds using the making data calculated by the shoe mold making auxiliary device. The shoe mold making auxiliary device includes: a receiving unit for receiving information related to a user's shoes; a calculating unit for selecting at least one shoe mold model from a variety of shoe mold models with different manufacturing methods based on the information received by the receiving unit, and calculating shoe mold making data corresponding to the selected shoe mold model; and a sending unit for sending the making data calculated by the calculating unit to the shoe mold making device. The shoe mold making device includes: a receiving unit for receiving making data from the shoe mold making auxiliary device; and a making unit for making shoe molds using the making data received by the receiving unit.

[0008] The described and other objects, features, aspects and advantages of the invention will be shown by the following detailed description in relation to the invention, which is understood in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0009] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating the outline of the shoe mold making auxiliary device for Embodiment 1.

[0010] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the hardware structure of the shoe mold making auxiliary device according to Embodiment 1.

[0011] Figure 3 This diagram illustrates an example of the functional structure of the shoe mold making auxiliary device according to Embodiment 1.

[0012] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating an example of a shoe mold model.

[0013] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating one example of the characteristics of various shoe mold models.

[0014] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the recommended shoe model database for Implementation Method 1.

[0015] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the production data output by the shoe mold making auxiliary device according to Embodiment 1.

[0016] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing performed by the shoe mold making auxiliary device of Embodiment 1.

[0017] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a structural example of the shoe mold manufacturing system according to Embodiment 2.

[0018] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the hardware structure of the shoe mold making apparatus according to Embodiment 2.

[0019] Figure 11 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing performed by the shoe mold making system of Embodiment 2. Detailed Implementation

[0020] Hereinafter, various embodiments will be described based on the accompanying drawings. In the following description, the same symbols will be used to refer to the same parts. These parts also have the same names and functions. Therefore, detailed descriptions related to these parts will not be repeated.

[0021] [Implementation Method 1]

[0022] In Embodiment 1, an example of a scenario in which the present invention is applicable will be described. In Embodiment 1, for example, a shoe mold making apparatus will be described. This shoe mold making apparatus measures the foot shape of a user in a store, selects at least one shoe mold model from a variety of shoe mold models with different manufacturing methods based on the measured foot shape of the user, and outputs shoe mold manufacturing data corresponding to the selected shoe mold model.

[0023] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating the outline of the shoe mold making auxiliary device 100 according to Embodiment 1. (Refer to...) Figure 1 The shoe mold making auxiliary device 100 is installed inside the shop. The shoe mold making auxiliary device 100 can communicate with the measuring device 200, mobile terminals such as smartphones 300 and / or data servers 500.

[0024] The measuring device 200 is used to measure the user's foot shape. The measuring device 200 can be installed in the same store as the shoe mold making auxiliary device 100, or in a different store. The mobile terminal 300 is used when measuring the user's foot shape at home or in a store where the measuring device 200 is not located. The data server 500 is located at the manufacturer and stores the user's personal information, the user's shoe purchase history, existing shoe mold data, and data from the user's previous shoe mold making, etc.

[0025] The shoe mold making auxiliary device 100 receives foot shape data from the measuring device 200 or mobile terminal 300, and selects at least one shoe mold model from a variety of shoe mold models with different manufacturing methods based on the received foot shape data. In Embodiment 1, 3D printer models, cutting machine models, planar component models, variable models, three-dimensional component models, and hybrid models are used as shoe mold models. Details of each shoe mold model will be referred to Figure 4 and Figure 5 As described below.

[0026] Furthermore, the shoe mold making auxiliary device 100 calculates the production data required to make a shoe mold corresponding to the selected shoe mold model (which will be referred to...). Figure 7 (As described below), the calculated production data is displayed on monitor 150.

[0027] In addition, the shoe mold making auxiliary device 100 can also accept shoe mold data for making shoes for users, and select at least one shoe mold model from a variety of shoe mold models with different manufacturing methods based on the accepted shoe mold data. At this time, the shoe mold making auxiliary device 100 obtains shoe mold data of shoes previously purchased by the user or shoe mold data previously made by the user from the data server 500, as shoe mold data for making shoes for users.

[0028] Furthermore, the shoe mold making auxiliary device 100 can output making data using a printer, or send making data to the shoe mold making device 400 which can communicate with the shoe mold making auxiliary device 100.

[0029] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the hardware structure of the shoe mold making auxiliary device 100 according to Embodiment 1. (Refer to...) Figure 2 The shoe mold making auxiliary device 100 includes a processor 102, a main memory 104, an input unit 106, an output unit 108, a storage unit 110, an optical driver 112, and a communication controller 120. These components are connected via a processor bus 118.

[0030] The processor 102 includes a central processing unit (CPU) or a graphics processing unit (GPU), and can read programs stored in memory 110 (for example, an operating system (OS) 1102 and a processing program 1104), expand and execute them in main memory 104. The processor 102 executes the following processing program 1104: based on foot shape data or shoe mold data received by the input unit 106, it selects a shoe mold model according to a predetermined algorithm and calculates the shoe mold manufacturing data corresponding to the selected shoe mold model. The processor 102 executing the processing program 1104 corresponds to the computing unit of the shoe mold manufacturing auxiliary device 100.

[0031] Main memory 104 includes volatile storage devices such as Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM) or Static Random Access Memory (SRAM). Storage 110 includes, for example, non-volatile storage devices such as Hard Disk Drive (HDD) or Solid State Drive (SSD).

[0032] In addition to the OS 1102, which performs basic functions, the memory 110 also stores a processing program 1104 that provides functions for the shoe mold making auxiliary device 100. Specifically, by executing the processing program 1104 on the processor 102 of the shoe mold making auxiliary device 100, a shoe mold model is selected, and shoe mold making data corresponding to the selected model is calculated. Furthermore, the memory 110 stores a foot shape database 1106, a shoe mold database 1107, and a recommended shoe mold model database 1108.

[0033] Foot type database 1106 stores foot type data as a reference, categorized by size. The average foot type data is used as the reference. Furthermore, foot type database 1106 may also store foot type data as a reference not only by size but also by gender, age, and / or usage.

[0034] The shoe model database 1107 stores benchmark shoe model data by size. The benchmark shoe model data uses average shoe model data. Furthermore, the shoe model database 1107 may also store benchmark shoe model data not only by size but also by gender, age, and / or purpose.

[0035] The recommended shoe model database 1108 stores recommended shoe model templates according to certain conditions. The recommended shoe model database 1108 is referenced when the processor 102 selects a shoe model. Furthermore, the recommended shoe model templates will be referenced... Figure 6 As described below.

[0036] Furthermore, the foot shape database 1106 and shoe model database 1107 may store only frequently used data in the storage 110, while storing other data in the data server 500. Alternatively, the foot shape database 1106 and shoe model database 1107 may only store lists, with multiple foot shape data and multiple shoe model data stored separately in the data server 500.

[0037] The input unit 106 receives information related to the user's shoes. The input unit 106 is connected to the measuring device 200, the mobile terminal 300, or the data server 500, and includes an input interface for receiving information from the measuring device 200, the mobile terminal 300, or the data server 500. Furthermore, the input unit 106 includes a keyboard or mouse, a microphone, a touch element, etc., for receiving information. The input unit 106 for receiving information related to the user's shoes corresponds to the receiving unit of the shoe mold making auxiliary device 100.

[0038] The output unit 108 outputs the production data calculated by the processor 102. The output unit 108 includes a display, various indicators, a printer, etc., and outputs the processing results from the processor 102. Furthermore, the output unit 108 may also include an output interface that outputs the production data calculated by the processor 102 to the shoe mold making device.

[0039] The communication controller 120 uses wired or wireless communication to exchange data with other control devices, etc. The shoe mold making auxiliary device 100 receives foot shape data from the measuring device 200 or the mobile terminal 300 via the communication controller 120. Furthermore, the shoe mold making auxiliary device 100 can also receive shoe mold data from the data server 500 via the communication controller 120. Moreover, the shoe mold making auxiliary device 100 can also send making data to the shoe mold making device via the communication controller 120. Additionally, a Universal Serial Bus (USB) controller connected to the processor bus 118 can be provided separately from the communication controller 120, and can exchange data with other control devices, etc., via USB connection.

[0040] The optical drive 112 reads the program stored in the recording medium 114 (such as an optical recording medium like a Digital Versatile Disc, DVD) that stores a computer-readable program non-transitory, and installs the read program into the memory 110, etc.

[0041] The processing program 1104 and the like executed by the shoe mold making auxiliary device 100 can be installed via a computer-readable recording medium 114, or it can be installed by downloading from a server device on a network. Furthermore, the functions provided by the shoe mold making auxiliary device 100 in Embodiment 1 are sometimes implemented as part of a module provided by an OS.

[0042] Figure 2 The diagram illustrates a structural example where a processor 102 executes a program to provide the functions required for the shoe mold making auxiliary device 100. However, dedicated hardware circuitry (such as Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs) or Field-Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs)) can also be used to install some or all of these provided functions. Furthermore, Figure 2 The structure of the shoe mold making auxiliary device 100 shown is illustrative, but is not limited to this structure.

[0043] Figure 3This diagram illustrates an example of the functional structure of the shoe mold making auxiliary device 100 according to Embodiment 1. The shoe mold making auxiliary device 100 includes a receiving unit 131, a calculation unit 132, and an output unit 108.

[0044] The receiving unit 131 is implemented by the input unit 106. The receiving unit 131 receives information related to the user's shoes. The information related to the user's shoes includes factual information and shoe-related information selected by the user (hereinafter referred to as "selection information").

[0045] The factual information includes the user's foot shape data or shoe mold data used to make the user's shoes. The user's foot shape data is sent from the measuring device 200 or the mobile terminal 300. The shoe mold data used to make the user's shoes is sent from the data server 500.

[0046] The selection information includes, for example, expectations related to the shape of the shoe, its intended use, the upper material, delivery time, and / or cost. Expectations related to the shape of the shoe include, for example, expectations regarding tightness (tight, loose, etc.) and the height of the opening. The intended use of the shoe includes, for example, everyday use, walking, running, or specific competition use. Expectations related to the upper material include, for example, the desire to use heat-shrinkable materials for the upper. Expectations related to delivery time include the desired delivery date. Expectations related to cost include the desired cost level for shoe production.

[0047] Selection information is input by the user using a keyboard or mouse, microphone, touch device, etc. Furthermore, Figure 3 The selection information shown is just one example, and the selection information is not limited to these. In addition, the selection information may also include information about the shoes the user is currently wearing, or information about the shoes the user has worn in the past. Moreover, the information related to the user's shoes received by the receiving unit 131 preferably includes both factual information and selection information, but it is sufficient to include at least factual information, and it is not necessary to exclude selection information.

[0048] The calculation unit 132 is implemented by the processor 102. When the factual information received by the receiving unit 131 is the user's foot shape data, the calculation unit 132 refers to the foot shape database 1106 and extracts foot shape data that is close to the received user's foot shape data as reference foot shape data. The calculation unit 132 compares the user's foot shape data with the extracted reference foot shape data and calculates the difference between the user's foot shape and the reference foot shape. The calculation unit 132 refers to the recommended shoe model database 1108 and selects a shoe model corresponding to the difference. Based on the user's foot shape data, the calculation unit 132 calculates the manufacturing data required to create a shoe model corresponding to the selected shoe model.

[0049] When the factual information received by the receiving unit 131 is shoe mold data for making shoes for a user, the calculation unit 132 refers to the shoe mold database 1107 and extracts shoe mold data that is close to the received shoe mold data for making shoes for the user as the benchmark shoe mold data. The calculation unit 132 compares the shoe mold data for making shoes for the user with the extracted benchmark shoe mold data and calculates the difference between the shoe mold for making shoes for the user and the benchmark shoe mold. The calculation unit 132 refers to the recommended shoe mold model database 1108 and selects a shoe mold model corresponding to the difference. Based on the shoe mold data for making shoes for the user, the calculation unit 132 calculates the production data required to make a shoe mold corresponding to the selected shoe mold model.

[0050] When the receiving unit 131 receives expectations (selection information) related to the shape of the shoe in addition to factual information, the calculation unit 132 can also correct the calculated difference amount based on the expectation and select a shoe model according to the corrected difference amount. In detail, the calculation unit 132 refers to the recommended shoe model database 1108 and selects a shoe model corresponding to the corrected difference amount.

[0051] In this case, the calculation unit 132 outputs production data based on the user's foot shape data or shoe mold data used to make the user's shoes, as well as expectations related to the shape of the shoes.

[0052] Furthermore, when the receiving unit 131 receives information about the user's current shoes (selection information) or information about the user's previously worn shoes (selection information) in addition to factual information, the calculation unit 132 can also determine the user's foot tendency (lateral widening, hallux valgus, etc.) based on the information received, correct the calculated difference amount based on the determined tendency, and select a shoe model based on the corrected difference amount.

[0053] In this case, the calculation unit 132 outputs production data based on the user's foot shape data or shoe mold data used to make the user's shoes, and the determined features.

[0054] Furthermore, when the receiving unit 131 receives selection information in addition to factual information, such as the intended use of the shoes, expectations related to the upper material, expectations related to delivery time, and / or expectations related to cost, the calculation unit 132 can also select a shoe model based on the difference amount and the selection information. Specifically, the calculation unit 132 refers to the recommended shoe model database 1108 and selects a shoe model corresponding to the difference amount and the selection information.

[0055] Furthermore, the "difference amount" below includes not only the difference amount calculated by the calculation unit 132, but also the corrected difference amount after correction. Moreover, when multiple corresponding shoe mold models exist in the recommended shoe mold model database 1108, the design calculation unit 132 selects all corresponding types of shoe mold models.

[0056] The output unit 108 outputs the production data calculated by the calculation unit 132. Alternatively, the output unit 108 may also output the shoe mold model selected by the calculation unit 132 along with the production data. If the output unit 108 includes a display, the production data is displayed on the display. If the output unit 108 includes a printer, the production data is output by the printer. If the output unit 108 includes an output interface for outputting to a shoe mold making apparatus, the production data is sent to the shoe mold making apparatus. The production data is output via at least one of the following methods: display on the display, output via the printer, or transmission to the shoe mold making apparatus.

[0057] Here, we will describe various shoe mold models with different manufacturing methods used in Implementation Method 1. Figure 4 This diagram illustrates an example of a shoe mold model. Shoe mold models are broadly categorized into primary shoe mold models and simplified shoe mold models.

[0058] The first shoe model is a solid-type shoe model, which is a model that relatively faithfully reproduces the production data calculated by the calculation unit 132. The first shoe model may include, for example, a 3D printer model made by layering resin or pulp using a 3D printer, and a cutting machine model made by cutting hard components such as wood using a cutting machine. In order to make a shoe model for a 3D printer, in addition to a 3D printer, equipment for melting resin or pulp may be required, depending on the situation. Furthermore, in order to make a shoe model for a cutting machine, a cutting machine is required.

[0059] In contrast, the simplified shoe mold model is easier to make than the first shoe mold model, and it can also be made by shop staff in the store. As an example, Figure 4 The image shows four simplified shoe model models (second shoe model, third shoe model, fourth shoe model, and fifth shoe model).

[0060] The second shoe mold model is a model made by mounting the various planar components, each with its own interlocking groove, into these grooves. The planar components are made, for example, by cutting wood-based panels such as medium-density fiberboard (MDF) using a laser processing machine. Furthermore, the material of the planar components is not limited to MDF; other wood-based panels such as insulation fiberboard (IB) or hard fiberboard (HB) can also be used. As IB, Class A insulation board, tatami board, or sheathing board can also be used as the material for the planar components. As HB, standard board or tempered board can also be used as the material for the planar components. Moreover, the material of the planar components is not limited to such wood-based panels; any material suitable for making shoe molds, such as highly recyclable cardboard, cork, plywood, particleboard, metal, or thermoplastic resin, can also be used. As an example, Figure 4 The image shows a planar component model created by assembling multiple planar MDF components. To create a shoe mold for a second shoe mold model, a cutting machine such as a laser processing machine is required.

[0061] The third shoe mold model is a variable model created to adjust the adjustment amount of multiple adjustment components. The third shoe mold model is... Figure 4 The shoe mold shown is the simplest to make. As an example, Figure 4 The variable model 40 is represented in the figure. For example... Figure 4 As shown, the variable model 40 is provided with multiple adjustment components 41 and an adjustment mechanism 42 for adjusting the position of the adjustment components 41, so that the position of the adjustment components 41 can be changed.

[0062] The fourth shoe mold model is a model made by stacking multiple three-dimensional parts. As an example, Figure 4 The image shows a voxel model (three-dimensional part model) made by stacking multiple voxels as three-dimensional parts in the shape of a box. As another example, the fourth shoe model can also be a model made by stacking multiple spherical beads as three-dimensional parts in the shape of a sphere, or a model made by stacking multiple cylindrical beads as three-dimensional parts in the shape of a cylinder.

[0063] The fifth shoe model is a hybrid model composed of different shoe model combinations. As an example, Figure 4 The text describes a model based on the simplest third shoe mold model, with only the specified area being made from the second shoe mold model.

[0064] The so-called specified area is the area where the shape of the user's foot is less than a threshold compared to the shape of the reference foot, or the area where the shape of the shoe mold used to make the user's shoes is less than a threshold compared to the shape of the reference shoe mold (e.g., the area corresponding to the instep, the area corresponding to the toes, etc.). Figure 4 In the hybrid model shown, different shoe mold models are applied to each area based on the shape consistency between the user's foot shape and the reference foot shape, or the shape consistency between the shoe mold used to make the user's shoes and the reference shoe mold.

[0065] As another example of a defined area, the defined area can also be the user's foot shape or the area where the curvature of the shoe mold used to make the user's shoes is above a threshold (e.g., the area corresponding to the instep, the area corresponding to the toes, etc.).

[0066] also, Figure 4 The hybrid model shown applies the simplest third shoe mold model to areas with shape consistency above the threshold, and applies the second shoe mold model to areas with shape consistency below the threshold; however, this is only one example. The hybrid model can be any model composed of different shoe mold models, and therefore can be a model based on the third shoe mold model where only areas are specified to be made by the fourth shoe mold model, or a model based on the first shoe mold model where only areas are specified to be made by the second or fourth shoe mold model. Furthermore, the hybrid model can also be based on an existing shoe mold, specifying only that areas are created by combining at least one of the first, second, third, and fourth shoe mold models.

[0067] like Figure 4 As shown, each shoe mold is made of a different method or material, resulting in different characteristics. The characteristics of each shoe mold are explained here. Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating one example of the characteristics of various shoe mold models. Figure 5 The terms “shape reproduction” and “heat resistance” refer to the degree to which the shoe mold can reproduce the shape of the user’s foot. “Production time” refers to the time spent making the shoe mold. “Cost” refers to the cost of making the shoe mold.

[0068] Figure 5 In this document, the "production time" and "cost" of each shoe mold model are evaluated using a five-level system. The higher the production time and cost of a shoe mold model, the higher the production cost. The characteristics of each shoe mold model are explained below.

[0069] Compared to the simplified shoe mold, the first shoe mold model has the advantage of high shape reproduction. On the other hand, compared to the simplified shoe mold model, the first shoe mold model tends to be more time-consuming or costly to produce.

[0070] Compared to the first shoe mold model, the simplified shoe mold model has the advantages of reducing the time and cost of shoe mold production.

[0071] The variable model has in Figure 5 The shoe model shown has the characteristics of the shortest production time and the lowest production cost.

[0072] In terms of shape reproduction, time spent on shoe mold production, and cost, planar component models, three-dimensional component models, and hybrid models differ. Figure 5 The shoe model shown is located in the middle position.

[0073] Compared to 3D component models and hybrid models, planar component models have the following characteristics: the production cost of the shoe mold may be higher. Compared to planar component models and hybrid models, 3D component models have the following characteristics: the production time of the shoe mold may be longer. Compared to planar component models and 3D component models, hybrid models can reduce the production time and cost of shoe molds.

[0074] As other characteristics, 3D printed models, compared to other shoe mold models, have the following features: depending on the materials used, their heat resistance may be worse, etc. Furthermore, Figure 5 The values ​​shown are for illustrative purposes only. Furthermore, Figure 5 The feature shown is only one example; the features of each shoe model are not limited to those shown. Figure 5 As shown. The shoe mold making auxiliary device 100 stores a database 1108 of recommended shoe mold models based on the characteristics of each shoe mold model, and a calculation unit 132 (see reference). Figure 3 Refer to the recommended shoe model database 1108 to select a shoe model.

[0075] Figure 6 This diagram illustrates an example of the recommended shoe model database 1108 of Embodiment 1. Figure 6 As shown, in the recommended shoe model database 1108, the conditions correspond to the recommended shoe model (the model marked with a circle (○) in the figure). The recommended shoe model database 1108 is generated by the calculation unit 132 (see reference 132). Figure 3 Refer to this when selecting a shoe model.

[0076] Figure 6 The “difference from the benchmark” refers to the difference between the user’s foot shape and the foot shape that serves as the benchmark, or the difference between the shoe mold used to make the user’s shoes and the shoe mold that serves as the benchmark. “Delivery time” refers to the number of days the user can wait for the shoes to be delivered. “Cost” refers to the cost incurred in making the shoes.

[0077] The computing unit 132 is configured to be based on the receiving unit 131 (refer to...) Figure 3 The system uses the information received regarding the user's shoes (factual information only, or factual information and selection information) to determine the corresponding conditions and select the shoe model corresponding to the determined conditions.

[0078] The recommended shoe model corresponding to the "difference from the benchmark" is determined based on the shape reproducibility of each shoe model. The greater the difference from the benchmark, the higher the shape reproducibility of the corresponding shoe model. Therefore, the greater the difference from the benchmark, the higher the shape reproducibility of the selected shoe model.

[0079] The recommended shoe model corresponding to the "purpose of use" is determined based on the shape reproduction of each shoe model. For uses with relatively more forward / backward or lateral movements (such as football, basketball, running, etc.), shoe models with relatively high shape reproduction are selected. Therefore, when shoes are used for uses with relatively more forward / backward or lateral movements, shoe models with relatively high shape reproduction should be selected.

[0080] The recommended shoe mold model corresponding to the "upper material" is determined based on the heat resistance of each shoe mold model. For uppers made of heat-shrinkable materials, shoe mold models with high heat resistance are selected. Therefore, if a heat-shrinkable material is desired for the upper, a shoe mold model with high heat resistance should be chosen.

[0081] The recommended shoe mold models corresponding to the "delivery time" are determined based on the production time of each shoe mold model. The shorter the delivery time, the shorter the production time of the corresponding shoe mold model. Therefore, if you expect to receive the shoes as soon as possible, choose the shoe mold model with the shortest production time.

[0082] The recommended shoe mold models, corresponding to "cost," are determined based on the production cost and shape reproducibility of each model. For situations where cost is a primary concern, models with lower production costs are chosen; conversely, for situations where shape reproducibility is more important than cost, models with higher shape reproducibility are selected. Therefore, when cost is a primary concern, choose models with lower production costs; when shape reproducibility is more important than cost, choose models with higher shape reproducibility.

[0083] Furthermore, when the shoe model selected by the processing unit 132 based on the information related to the user's shoes received by the processing unit 131 is a hybrid model, the processing unit 132 also determines the combination of shoe model models and the applicable area. As an example of the determination method, the processing unit 132 calculates the shape consistency between the user's foot shape and a reference foot shape, or the shape consistency between the shoe model used to make the user's shoes and the reference shoe model, and determines the applicable shoe model based on this consistency. For areas where the consistency is above a threshold, the processing unit 132 determines to apply a simple shoe model such as a variable model; for areas where the consistency is below the threshold, it determines to apply a shoe model with high shape reproducibility.

[0084] As another example, the calculation unit 132 calculates the user's foot shape or the curvature of the shoe mold used to make the user's shoes, and determines the appropriate shoe mold model based on the curvature. For areas where the curvature is less than a threshold, the calculation unit 132 determines to apply a simple shoe mold model such as a variable model, and for areas where the curvature is above the threshold, it determines to apply a shoe mold model with high shape reproducibility.

[0085] also, Figure 6 The conditions shown and the recommended shoe model under said conditions are only examples and are not limited thereto. Figure 6 The item names or values ​​for each condition shown, and the applicability of each shoe model, are merely examples and are not limited to them. Furthermore, the recommended shoe model database 1108 only needs to include recommended shoe models corresponding to the "difference from the benchmark," and may or may not include recommended shoe models corresponding to other conditions.

[0086] Furthermore, the recommended shoe model database 1108 also includes, in addition to, [other options]. Figure 6 In addition to the recommended shoe mold models corresponding to the conditions shown, the database also includes recommended shoe mold models corresponding to the shoe manufacturing methods. As an example of this case, when using a method that requires pressing the sole and upper together to manufacture the shoe, a recommended shoe mold model database 1108 can be constructed by selecting shoe mold models with high strength.

[0087] Figure 7 This diagram illustrates an example of the manufacturing data output by the shoe mold manufacturing aid 100 according to Embodiment 1. When the selection of the shoe mold model is completed, the calculation unit 132 (see...) Figure 3 Calculate and output the production data corresponding to the selected shoe model.

[0088] When the selected shoe model is a 3D printer model, the computing unit 132 calculates and outputs the control data of the 3D printer, namely the printing data and the stacking direction data, such as the Standard Triangulated Language (STL) data.

[0089] When the selected shoe mold model is a cutting machine model, the calculation unit 132 calculates and outputs the control data of the cutting machine.

[0090] When the selected shoe mold model is the second shoe mold model, the calculation unit 132 calculates and outputs the cross-sectional data of the shoe mold and the cutting data for making planar components corresponding to each cross-section.

[0091] When the selected shoe mold model is the third shoe mold model, the calculation unit 132 calculates and outputs the adjustment amount of each adjustment component 19.

[0092] When the selected shoe model is the fourth shoe model, the calculation unit 132 calculates and outputs the number of three-dimensional parts, the size of the three-dimensional parts, and the arrangement (layout) of the three-dimensional parts. The calculation unit 132 can also determine the size of the three-dimensional parts used according to the shape reproduction required by the user.

[0093] When the selected shoe mold model is the fifth shoe mold model, the calculation unit 132 calculates and outputs the production data required to make the shoe mold of each combined shoe mold model. As an example, when the selected shoe mold model is a model that combines the second shoe mold model and the third shoe mold model, the calculation unit 132 calculates and outputs the cross-sectional data, cutting data, and adjustment amount of each adjustment component.

[0094] Furthermore, when the selected shoe mold model is the second shoe mold model, and the shoe is manufactured using a method that requires a pressing process between the sole and the upper, the calculation unit 132 can make corrections such as increasing the number of planar components when calculating the manufacturing data. This improves the strength of the shoe mold.

[0095] Furthermore, when the selected shoe mold model is the fourth shoe mold model, and the shoe is manufactured using a method that requires a pressing process between the sole and the upper, the calculation unit 132 can make corrections such as increasing the number of three-dimensional parts when calculating the manufacturing data. This improves the strength of the shoe mold.

[0096] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing performed by the shoe mold making auxiliary device 100 of Embodiment 1. Figure 8 The series of processes shown is performed by processor 102 (refer to...) Figure 2 )implement.

[0097] In step S805, the processor 102 receives input from the input unit 106 (refer to...). Figure 2 The foot shape data of the users or the shoe mold data used to make the shoes for the users are accepted.

[0098] In step S810, the processor 102 receives selection information from the input unit 106. Furthermore, if the input unit 106 does not receive selection information, the processor 102 skips step S810 and proceeds to step S815.

[0099] In step S815, if the processor 102 received the user's foot shape data in step S805, it compares the user's foot shape data with the reference foot shape data and calculates the difference between the user's foot shape and the reference foot shape. Furthermore, if the processor 102 received shoe mold data for making the user's shoes in step S805, it compares the shoe mold data for making the user's shoes with the reference shoe mold data and calculates the difference between the shoe mold for making the user's shoes and the reference shoe mold.

[0100] In step S820, the processor 102 selects at least one shoe model based on the difference amount calculated in step S815. Furthermore, if the processor 102 receives selection information in step S810, it selects at least one shoe model based on the difference amount calculated in step S815 and the selection information received in step S810.

[0101] In step S825, the processor 102 calculates the manufacturing data corresponding to the shoe model selected in step S820.

[0102] In step S830, the processor 102 outputs the production data calculated in step S825. The production data is then displayed on the monitor included in the shoe mold making auxiliary device 100. Alternatively, the production data can be output by a printer or sent to the shoe mold making device. Furthermore, in step S830, the processor 102 can also output the shoe mold model selected in step S820 along with the production data calculated in step S825.

[0103] After step S830, processor 102 ends. Figure 8 The series of processes shown.

[0104] In addition, if there are multiple shoe mold models selected by the processor 102 in step S820, the processor 102 can also output all the selected shoe mold models as recommended shoe mold models and ask the operator or user to select a shoe mold model, and calculate the production data only for the shoe mold model selected by the operator or user.

[0105] and, Figure 8In the series of processes shown, after selecting a shoe model in step S820, the processor 102 calculates and outputs the production data. However, it can also select a shoe model and only output the selected shoe model. That is, the shoe model making auxiliary device 100 only needs to have the following functions: selecting a suitable shoe model from multiple shoe models based on information related to the user's shoes, and outputting the selected shoe model, etc., while suggesting recommended shoe models.

[0106] Thus, the shoe mold making auxiliary device 100 of Embodiment 1 selects at least one shoe mold model from a variety of shoe mold models with different manufacturing methods based on the foot shape data of the user or the shoe mold data used to make the user's shoes.

[0107] Furthermore, the shoe mold making auxiliary device 100 of Embodiment 1 can accept selection information in addition to the user's foot shape data or the shoe mold data used to make the user's shoes. Based on the accepted user's foot shape data or the shoe mold data used to make the user's shoes, and the selection information, it can select at least one shoe mold model from a variety of shoe mold models with different manufacturing methods.

[0108] Therefore, according to the shoe mold making auxiliary device 100 of embodiment 1, the optimal shoe mold model that meets the conditions is selected from multiple shoe mold models, thereby reducing the labor of the shoe mold making operator.

[0109] Furthermore, the shoe mold making auxiliary device 100 of Embodiment 1 calculates and outputs the production data corresponding to the selected shoe mold model. In the past, it was necessary to use different software or different devices to calculate the production data for each shoe mold model, but according to the shoe mold making auxiliary device 100 of Embodiment 1, the production data corresponding to the selected shoe mold model is calculated and output, thereby reducing the labor of the operator.

[0110] [Implementation Method 2]

[0111] In Embodiment 2, a shoe mold making system will be described, which includes the shoe mold making auxiliary device 100 and a shoe mold making apparatus that uses the making data calculated by the shoe mold making auxiliary device 100 to make shoe molds. Hereinafter, only the differences from Embodiment 1 will be described.

[0112] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a structural example of the shoe mold making system 10 according to Embodiment 2. The shoe mold making system 10 includes the shoe mold making auxiliary device 100 and the shoe mold making device 400 from Embodiment 1. The shoe mold making device 400 makes shoe molds based on making data received from the shoe mold making auxiliary device 100. The shoe mold making system 10 can be configured in a single store or across multiple stores and manufacturers.

[0113] Figure 10This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the hardware structure of the shoe mold making apparatus 400 according to Embodiment 2. (Refer to...) Figure 10 The shoe mold making apparatus 400 includes a processor 402, a main memory 404, an input unit 406, an output unit 408, a memory 410, an optical driver 412, and a communication controller 420. These components are connected via a processor bus 418.

[0114] The processor 402 includes a CPU or GPU, and can read programs stored in memory 410 (for example, OS 4102 and processing program 4104), expand and execute them in main memory 404. The processor 402 executes the processing program 4104, which is to create a shoe mold using the production data received by the input unit 406. The processor 402 executing the processing program 4104 corresponds to the production unit of the shoe mold making apparatus 400.

[0115] Main memory 404 includes volatile storage devices such as DRAM or SRAM. Storage 410 includes, for example, non-volatile storage devices such as HDD or SSD.

[0116] In addition to the OS 4102 used to implement basic functions, the memory 410 also stores a processing program 4104 that provides functions as a shoe mold making apparatus 400. That is, shoe molds are made by executing the processing program 4104 by the processor 402 of the shoe mold making apparatus 400.

[0117] The input unit 406 is connected to the shoe mold making auxiliary device 100 and includes an input interface for receiving production data from the shoe mold making auxiliary device 100. Furthermore, the input unit 406 may also include a keyboard or mouse, microphone, touch element, etc., for receiving information. The input unit 406 corresponds to the receiving unit of the shoe mold making device 400.

[0118] The output unit 408 includes a display and outputs the processing results from the processor 402.

[0119] The communication controller 420 uses wired or wireless communication to exchange data with other control devices, etc. The shoe mold making device 400 receives making data from the shoe mold making auxiliary device 100 via the communication controller 420.

[0120] The optical driver 412 reads the program stored in the recording medium 414 (e.g., an optical recording medium such as a DVD) that stores a computer-readable program non-transitory, and installs the read program into the memory 410, etc.

[0121] The processing program 4104 executed by the shoe mold making apparatus 400 can be installed via a computer-readable recording medium 414, or it can be installed by downloading from a server device on a network. Furthermore, the functions provided by the shoe mold making apparatus 400 in Embodiment 2 are sometimes implemented as part of a module provided by an OS.

[0122] Figure 10 The diagram illustrates a structural example where a processor 402 executes a program to provide the functions required for the shoe mold making apparatus 400. However, dedicated hardware circuitry (such as an ASIC or FPGA) can also be used to install some or all of these provided functions. Furthermore, Figure 10 The structure of the shoe mold making device 400 shown is illustrative, but is not limited to this structure.

[0123] Figure 11 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing performed by the shoe mold making system 10 of Embodiment 2. Figure 11 In the process shown, steps S1105 to S1130 are performed by the processor 102 of the shoe mold making auxiliary device 100 (see reference). Figure 2 The processing of steps S1135 and S1140 is performed by the processor 402 of the shoe mold making device 400 (see reference). Figure 10 )implement.

[0124] In steps S1105 to S1125, the processor 102 performs the same processing as in steps S805 to S825.

[0125] In step S1130, the processor 102 sends the manufacturing data calculated in step S1125 to the shoe mold making device 400.

[0126] In step S1135, the processor 402 receives manufacturing data from the shoe mold making auxiliary device 100.

[0127] In step S1140, the processor 402 uses the manufacturing data received from the shoe mold making auxiliary device 100 to make a shoe mold.

[0128] After step S1140, the shoe mold making system 10 ends. Figure 11 The series of processes shown.

[0129] Thus, the shoe mold making system 10 of embodiment 2 selects at least one shoe mold model from a variety of shoe mold models with different manufacturing methods based on the foot shape data of the user or the shoe mold data used to make the user's shoes, calculates the manufacturing data corresponding to the selected shoe mold model, and uses the calculated manufacturing data to make the shoe mold.

[0130] Furthermore, the shoe mold making system 10 of embodiment 2 can accept selection information in addition to the user's foot shape data or the shoe mold data used to make the user's shoes. Based on the accepted user's foot shape data or the shoe mold data used to make the user's shoes, as well as the selection information, it selects at least one shoe mold model from a variety of shoe mold models with different manufacturing methods, calculates the manufacturing data corresponding to the selected shoe mold model, and uses the calculated manufacturing data to make the shoe mold.

[0131] Therefore, according to the shoe mold making system 10 of embodiment 2, the optimal shoe mold model that meets the conditions is selected from multiple shoe mold models, thereby reducing the labor of the shoe mold making operator.

[0132] Furthermore, in the past, different software or devices were needed to calculate the production data for each shoe mold model, and the calculated production data was used to make the shoe mold. However, according to the shoe mold making system 10 of Embodiment 2, the production data corresponding to the selected shoe mold model is calculated, and the production data is used to make the shoe mold, thereby reducing the labor of the operator.

[0133] [Other variations]

[0134] The shoe mold making auxiliary device 100 can be installed in each store, or it can be installed only in specific stores such as large stores, and it can collect users' foot shape data from the measuring devices 200 in other stores. Moreover, the shoe mold making auxiliary device 100 can also be installed in the manufacturer.

[0135] Furthermore, the shoe mold making auxiliary device 100 can also store the foot shape data it receives along with the user's personal information on the data server 500 via the network.

[0136] Furthermore, the shoe mold making auxiliary device 100 can also save the selected shoe mold model type and the calculated production data along with the user's personal information to the data server 500 via the network.

[0137] Furthermore, the data server 500 can be installed not only at the manufacturer's premises but also in other locations, such as specific stores. Moreover, the data server 500 can also be implemented as a cloud service.

[0138] Furthermore, the receiving unit 131 can also accept user-preferred design patterns as selection information. In this case, as an example, it is sufficient to prepare multiple design patterns in advance and set up a user interface from which the user can select their preferred design pattern.

[0139] Furthermore, in order to expedite the shoe mold production process, in addition to Figure 4 In addition to the equipment shown, robots and other equipment are also being prepared for assembly.

[0140] Embodiments of the present invention have been described, but it should be considered that the embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims.

Claims

1. A shoe mold making auxiliary device, characterized in that, include: The customer service department handles information related to users' shoes. The calculation unit, based on the information received by the receiving unit, selects at least one shoe mold model from a variety of shoe mold models with different manufacturing methods, and calculates the manufacturing data of the shoe mold corresponding to the selected shoe mold model; and The output unit outputs the production data calculated by the calculation unit. The information related to the user's shoes received by the receiving department includes factual information. The factual information includes the user's foot shape data, or shoe mold data used to make the user's shoes. The computing unit The foot shape data that will become the reference is compared with the user's foot shape data received by the receiving department to calculate the difference between the reference foot shape and the user's foot shape; or the shoe mold data that will become the reference is compared with the shoe mold data received by the receiving department for making the user's shoes to calculate the difference between the reference shoe mold and the shoe mold used to make the user's shoes. The shoe model is selected based on the calculated difference.

2. The shoe mold making auxiliary device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The shoe mold model includes: The first shoe mold model is created using a 3D printer or cutting machine; and The simplified shoe mold model is easier to make compared to the first shoe mold model.

3. The shoe mold making auxiliary device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The simplified shoe mold model includes: The second shoe mold model is created by embedding multiple planar components; The third shoe mold model is made by adjusting the adjustment amount of multiple adjustment parts; as well as The fourth type of shoe mold is made by stacking multiple three-dimensional parts.

4. The shoe mold making auxiliary device according to claim 3, characterized in that, In the case of the first shoe mold model, the manufacturing data is the control data of the 3D printer or the cutting machine. In the case of the second shoe mold model, the manufacturing data consists of the cutting data for the plurality of planar components. In the case of the third shoe mold model, the manufacturing data consists of the adjustment amount data for each of the adjustment components. In the case of the fourth shoe mold model, the manufacturing data is the layout data of the plurality of three-dimensional components.

5. The shoe mold making auxiliary device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The information related to the user's shoes received by the receiving department also includes the selection information chosen by the user.

6. The shoe mold making auxiliary device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The selection information includes at least one of the intended use of the shoe and the upper material. The calculation unit selects the shoe model based on information received by the receiving unit regarding at least one of the intended use of the shoe and the upper material.

7. The shoe mold making auxiliary device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The selection information includes at least one of delivery date and cost. The calculation unit selects the shoe mold model based on information from at least one of the delivery date and cost received by the acceptance unit.

8. A shoe mold manufacturing system, characterized in that, include: A shoe mold making auxiliary device calculates shoe mold making data; and a shoe mold making device uses the making data calculated by the shoe mold making auxiliary device to make a shoe mold. The shoe mold making auxiliary device includes: The customer service department handles information related to users' shoes. The calculation unit, based on the information received by the receiving unit, selects at least one shoe mold model from a variety of shoe mold models with different manufacturing methods, and calculates the manufacturing data of the shoe mold corresponding to the selected shoe mold model; and The sending unit sends the manufacturing data calculated by the calculation unit to the shoe mold making device. The shoe mold making device includes: The receiving unit receives the manufacturing data from the shoe mold making auxiliary device; and The manufacturing department uses the manufacturing data received by the receiving department to manufacture shoe molds. The information related to the user's shoes received by the receiving department includes factual information. The factual information includes the user's foot shape data, or shoe mold data used to make the user's shoes. The computing unit The foot shape data that will become the reference is compared with the user's foot shape data received by the receiving department to calculate the difference between the reference foot shape and the user's foot shape; or the shoe mold data that will become the reference is compared with the shoe mold data received by the receiving department for making the user's shoes to calculate the difference between the reference shoe mold and the shoe mold used to make the user's shoes. The shoe model is selected based on the calculated difference.

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