Method for manufacturing a protective shoe sole, protective shoe sole, set for manufacturing a protective shoe sole
A method using a thermoformable plastic sheet pressed onto a molding compound with a shoe sole guide creates a precise, slip-resistant, and removable protective shoe sole, addressing fit and damage issues of existing protectors.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- DE · DE
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2024-09-27
- Publication Date
- 2026-04-02
AI Technical Summary
Existing shoe sole protectors, such as shoe covers and glued-on protectors, are not slip-resistant, fit poorly, obscure the shoe's appearance, and can damage the shoe sole, while DIY solutions lack precision and ease of removal.
A method involving a thermoformable plastic sheet is heated and pressed into a molding compound using a shoe sole as a guide, allowing it to deform and fit snugly onto the shoe sole, with optional fastening elements for secure attachment, and can be easily removed.
The method produces a protective shoe sole that fits precisely, provides slip resistance, maintains the shoe's appearance, and can be easily detached without damaging the shoe sole, offering reliable wear protection.
Smart Images

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Abstract
Description
[0001] The invention relates to a method with the features of independent claim 1, a protective shoe sole with the features of independent claim 5, and a set with the features of independent claim 9.
[0002] Shoe soles are exposed to a wide range of stresses and resulting wear and tear on various surfaces. There are several ways to protect them. One example is shoe covers, which protect shoes from moisture and prevent dirt from contaminating the surrounding environment. However, these shoe covers are typically disposable and usually only available in a few standard sizes. Due to their materials and surface texture, they are not slip-resistant and can therefore contribute to accidents. Since shoe covers are only available in a limited number of sizes, they don't fit all soles perfectly and can reduce traction and slip resistance. Furthermore, shoe covers cover the entire shoe, not just the sole, thus obscuring the shoe's appearance and design.Furthermore, there are shoe sole protectors that can be glued onto a shoe sole. By permanently attaching them to the sole, the properties of the shoe sole are permanently altered, so that the actual benefit of a specific shoe sole (for example, the studs of a football boot or the cleats of a cycling shoe) is no longer effective. Attaching and removing a shoe sole protector can also contribute to damage to the shoe sole.
[0003] It is therefore an object of the present invention to overcome at least one of the disadvantages described above, at least partially. In particular, it is an object of the invention to provide a method, a protective shoe insole, and a set for a protective shoe insole that fits precisely onto a shoe sole, reliably protects the shoe sole from wear, and can nevertheless be easily removed from the shoe sole.
[0004] The foregoing problem is solved by a method with the features of independent claim 1, by a protective shoe sole with the features of independent claim 5, and by a set with the features of independent claim 9. Further features and details of the invention will become apparent from the dependent claims, the description, and the drawings. Features and details described in connection with the method according to the invention naturally also apply in connection with the protective shoe sole and / or the set according to the invention, and vice versa, so that the disclosure of the individual aspects of the invention always includes, or allows for, reciprocal reference.
[0005] According to the invention, a method for manufacturing a protective shoe sole is provided under a first aspect of the subject matter of the invention, comprising at least the following steps: heating a thermally deformable plastic sheet, placing the heated plastic sheet onto a molding compound, pressing the heated plastic sheet, in particular with a shoe sole, into the molding compound, removing the plastic sheet from the molding compound.
[0006] A protective shoe sole, as defined in the invention, can be understood as a device that can be positively and force-fitted to a shoe sole, particularly without additional connecting elements. A protective layer can thus be applied to a shoe sole to prevent wear and tear. The method is suitable for manufacturing a protective shoe sole. In particular, the manufacturing process can be carried out at home in a so-called "do it yourself" (DIY) manner, even without specialized knowledge. The method comprises at least four steps, the order of which is irrelevant and can be modified.
[0007] The first step involves heating the thermoformable, especially transparent, plastic sheet. Before heating, the plastic sheet is difficult to deform, and in particular, it is not deformable at all. Heating the thermoformable or thermoplastic sheet can cause it to become deformable or plastic. This allows the plastic sheet to be permanently deformed, especially afterward. "Permanently" in this context means that the plastic sheet retains its deformation even after cooling. The deformability can be restored, for example, by reheating. Heating the thermoformable plastic sheet can be done in various ways; some are listed below. For example, the plastic sheet can be heated in an oven with an adjustable temperature.Furthermore, it is possible for a contact oven to contact the plastic sheet on at least two sides and thus heat it. Alternatively, the plastic sheet can be heated in a liquid bath, the temperature of which can be known or adjustable. Alcohols, oils, or preferably water can be used as the liquid. The degree of heating, or the temperature to which the plastic sheet is heated, depends, for example, on the material and / or the thickness of the plastic sheet. The heating process can be regulated by adjusting the duration and / or the temperature. This heating makes the thermoformable plastic sheet malleable. In particular, the plastic sheet can be heated to a temperature of 50 to 150 degrees Celsius. This temperature can refer specifically to the temperature across the entire cross-section of the plastic sheet.Furthermore, it is possible that not the entire plastic sheet is heated, but only specific areas. In a preferred embodiment, the plastic sheet is provided to be at least partially transparent before and / or after heating. This ensures that the design of the shoe remains visible.
[0008] In the second step, the heated plastic plate is placed on, or brought into contact with, an impression material. An impression material can be understood as a material that exhibits plastic deformability. Examples of impression materials include modeling clay, silicone, natural rubber, alginate, plaster, polyurethane, thermoplastic, or resin. In particular, an impression material can be permanently deformable, meaning it does not harden. It is also possible for the impression material to harden. The impression material may only be deformable for a certain period of time, in particular 1 to 120 minutes, preferably 10 to 20 minutes at room temperature. The impression material can have a hardening time of 1 minute to 6 hours, preferably 3 to 60 minutes, and particularly preferably 20 to 40 minutes. It can be helpful to activate the impression material to make it deformable and / or to enable it to harden.This activation can be achieved by mixing at least two different materials. The impression material can have a surface that is at least nearly flat on at least one side. The heated plastic plate can be placed onto the impression material, particularly onto the surface that is at least nearly flat. The plastic plate can be smaller than the surface area of the impression material on which it is placed. It can be provided that the impression material protrudes 0.1 cm to 10 cm, preferably 0.5 cm to 3 cm, around the plastic plate. Alternatively, the surface area of the impression material can be smaller than the plastic plate on at least one side. In this case, the plastic plate can be heated only at the point where it is in contact with the impression material.The molding compound, onto which the heated plastic plate is placed, can have a height of at least 0.1 cm to 10 cm, preferably 2 cm to 5 cm. Particularly preferably, the molding compound can have a height of 3 cm.
[0009] A molding compound can also refer to a pre-shaped or molded form, for example, made of metal or plastic. In particular, the shaped or molded form can be produced using a 3D printer. It may be intended that the molding compound or the form already has the contour of a shoe sole.
[0010] In the third step, the heated plastic plate is pressed into the molding compound, ideally using a shoe sole as a guide. In other words, the heated plastic plate is pressed into the molding compound. Pressing the heated plastic plate can deform the plastic plate and / or the molding compound. If the plastic plate is placed on undeformed molding compound, both the plastic plate and the molding compound can be deformed. If the plastic plate is placed on already deformed molding compound, only the plastic plate can be deformed. Pressing the plastic plate into the molding compound can be done without tools, relying solely on information, particularly 3D data, about the shape of a shoe sole and the ability to precisely press the plastic plate into the molding compound based on this information.It may also be provided that the contour of a shoe sole is used for pressing the mold into the plastic plate. In particular, it may be provided that a shoe sole is used to press the heated plastic plate into the molding compound. Using a shoe sole can have the advantage that the shape of the shoe sole can be transferred particularly well to the molding compound and the plastic plate. Specifically, the sole of the shoe that is to be protected by the protective shoe sole can be used. A force of 10 Newtons to 10,000 Newtons, preferably 100 to 1,500 Newtons, can be used for pressing. In particular, a pressure of 0.01 to 15 kg / cm² can be applied. 2 preferably 0.1 to 0.8 kg / cm² 2can be used. Furthermore, it can be provided that a user wears a shoe and places this shoe on the heated plastic plate, whereby the plastic plate lies on the molding compound and uses his body weight to press the shoe or shoe sole, the plastic plate and the molding compound together, or into the molding compound.
[0011] The molding compound can create resistance when the plastic plate is pressed into it, allowing the contour or shape of the shoe sole to be precisely transferred to the plastic plate. "Precisely" in this context means that distinctive contours of the shoe sole, such as studs, cleats, spikes, heels, or similar features, are transferred to the plastic plate. By pressing and shaping the plastic plate, it is formed into a protective shoe sole.
[0012] In the fourth step, the plastic plate is removed from the molding compound. For the purposes of this invention, "removal" can be understood to mean separating the plastic plate, the molding compound, and / or the shoe sole from one another. Removal can occur after the plastic plate has cooled, allowing it to cool in contact with the molding compound. Alternatively, cooling can also occur after removal from the molding compound. Removal can be performed with a tool, particularly pliers, or without a tool. In a preferred embodiment, the plastic plate or protective shoe sole is at least partially transparent after the process.
[0013] This process makes it possible to produce a protective shoe sole that fits snugly and securely onto a shoe sole, reliably protecting the shoe sole from wear and tear, and which can be easily removed from the shoe sole.
[0014] Within the scope of the invention, a method for manufacturing a protective shoe sole can further provide that the plastic sheet is heated in a liquid at a temperature of 50 to 150 degrees Celsius, preferably 80 to 100 degrees Celsius, and particularly preferably 85 to 90 degrees Celsius. The plastic sheet can be placed in a liquid bath, preferably a water bath, until it reaches a temperature of 50 to 150 degrees Celsius, preferably 80 to 100 degrees Celsius, and particularly preferably 85 to 90 degrees Celsius, across its entire cross-section. The dwell time of the plastic sheet in the liquid can depend on the material of the plastic sheet and / or its dimensions. The plastic sheet can be placed directly into the container for heating the liquid, or the liquid can be transferred to a separate container beforehand.Furthermore, it is possible that no chemical reaction occurs between the liquid and the plastic sheet. The liquid can therefore only function as a heat transfer medium. Alcohols, oils, or preferably water can be used as the liquid. Water is particularly well-suited for heating because a temperature of 100 degrees Celsius can be reliably reached by boiling the water. This prevents temperature fluctuations and ensures excellent malleability of the plastic sheet. Good malleability guarantees a particularly good fit of the protective shoe insole to the shoe sole. Heating in a liquid bath is particularly cost-effective and ensures a precise fit of the protective shoe insole through even heating.
[0015] Within the scope of the invention, it can be advantageous for the method for manufacturing a protective shoe sole to additionally comprise at least one of the following steps: mixing two components of the molding compound to activate the molding compound, placing a molding compound into a mold, deforming the molding compound by pressing a shoe sole into the molding compound, removing the shoe sole from the deformed molding compound, hardening the molding compound before applying the plastic plate, hardening the plastic plate, particularly in contact with the pressed-in molding compound or in liquid, preferably water, and cutting off the sides of the plastic plate that protrude above the molding compound. These steps can also be carried out in any order, particularly not in the order listed here.
[0016] With some impression materials, it may be necessary to mix at least the two components to activate them. Activation means that this process begins the hardening of the impression material. Hardening the impression material can have the advantage of allowing the contours of a shoe sole to be transferred particularly well to a protective shoe sole. By activating or hardening the impression material, a particularly precise-fitting protective shoe sole can be produced.
[0017] The molding compound can be placed into a mold. A mold can be a container bounded by a base and walls surrounding the base. The walls can have a height of 1 to 25 cm, preferably 4 to 10 cm. This prevents the molding compound from running, especially if it has a low viscosity, and prevents the plastic plate from being pressed into the molding compound. Furthermore, the mold prevents the molding compound from running during the pressing of the shoe sole. This has the advantage of allowing for the particularly reliable production of a protective shoe sole.
[0018] The molding compound can be deformed by pressing a shoe sole into it. This can be done, in particular, without a previously placed plastic plate. In other words, this step creates an impression of a shoe sole without simultaneously deforming a plastic plate. While pressing the shoe sole into the molding compound, the shoe can be moved to make the impression of the shoe sole 0.1 to 50 mm, preferably 0.5 to 10 mm, and particularly preferably 1 to 5 mm, larger than the shoe sole. These movements can be short, jerky movements and / or vibrations. This allows the shape of the shoe to be transferred particularly well into the molding compound, and the plastic plate can later be placed between the molding compound and the shoe sole.
[0019] The shoe sole can then be removed from the deformed molding compound. This removal can be done before or after the molding compound has hardened. Alternatively, the molding compound can be partially hardened, but not yet at its final strength. This has the advantage that the molding compound reproduces the shape of the shoe sole particularly well, allowing for the production of an even more precisely fitting protective shoe sole.
[0020] The molding compound can harden before the heated plastic plate is placed on it. This method advantageously allows for the production of a particularly precise-fitting protective shoe sole, as it prevents further deformation of the molding compound during the pressing of the plastic plate into the molding compound.
[0021] The plastic sheet can be hardened, particularly after being deformed by pressing it into the molding compound, either in contact with the molding compound or in liquid, preferably water. Contact with the molding compound ensures a precise fit for the protective shoe sole, while contact with liquid, preferably water, results in uniform temperature distribution. This allows for the production of a particularly precise protective shoe sole without unwanted distortions or deformations.
[0022] After pressing the heated plastic plate with a shoe sole into the molding compound, parts of the deformed plastic plate or the protective shoe sole may protrude beyond the edges between the shoe sole and the molding compound. These protruding edges can be trimmed to achieve a precise fit and a secure hold.
[0023] Within the scope of the invention, a method for manufacturing a protective shoe sole may include placing a fastening element between the plastic sheet and the molding compound before the plastic sheet is pressed into the molding compound. The fastening element may be in the form of a band, cord, or rubber. The fastening element can be positioned between the molding compound and the plastic sheet. The subsequent pressing action can then deform the plastic sheet or the protective shoe sole, creating a guide for the fastening element. The fastening element can be designed to reversibly connect the protective shoe sole to the shoe sole or shoe. This allows for a particularly firm and secure fit of the protective shoe sole to the shoe sole.
[0024] The above problem is further solved according to a second aspect of the invention by a protective shoe sole according to the invention, in particular for protecting a shoe sole, characterized in that the protective shoe sole has at least a partial deformation to ensure a precise and secure fit against a shoe sole.
[0025] This results in the same advantages with regard to a protective shoe sole according to the invention as have already been described with regard to a method according to the invention.
[0026] A deformation can be understood, for example, as a bulge in the form of a stud, a spike, or a click system. A deformation can also refer to the contact of the protective shoe sole with any contour or shape of a shoe sole. At least one deformation can replicate the contour of a shoe sole. In other words, the protective shoe sole can reproduce the shape or contour of a shoe sole. The deformation of the shoe sole may remain visible through the protective shoe sole. A secure fit of the protective shoe sole can be understood as a form-fitting and force-fit connection to a shoe sole. Furthermore, it is possible that the protective shoe sole can be repeatedly removed from and reattached to a shoe sole. Additionally, the protective shoe sole may be designed to be at least partially transparent.Advantageously, the secure fit allows for a particularly good fit of the protective shoe sole, as slippage due to deformation is prevented.
[0027] Furthermore, in the case of a protective shoe sole designed to protect a shoe sole, it is conceivable that the deformation comprises at least one of the following forms: studs, cleats, heels, or spikes, particularly for football, rugby, or running shoes; click systems, particularly for cycling or ski boots. The shoe sole can have one or more deformations in the form of studs. The at least one deformation can be designed such that the protective shoe sole has the deformations in the same position as a shoe sole, for example, of a football boot, which has at least one stud. The protective shoe sole can be joined to a shoe sole, similar to a tongue-and-groove system. Advantageously, a protective shoe sole can thus be easily detached from a shoe sole.
[0028] Furthermore, in the case of a protective shoe sole for the protection of a shoe sole, it is conceivable that the protective shoe sole has a thickness of 0.5 to 10 mm, preferably 1 to 5 mm, wherein the protective shoe sole comprises at least partially one of the following materials: thermoplastic polyurethane TPU; thermoplastic elastomers TPE, polyethylene PE.
[0029] A thickness of 0.1 to 50 mm, preferably 0.5 to 10 mm, and particularly preferably 1 to 5 mm, allows the protective shoe sole to fit snugly against the shoe sole while still allowing the contours of the shoe sole to remain visible, so that, for example, cleats or spikes on the shoe sole retain their grip. This provides particularly reliable protection against wear and tear for the shoe sole.
[0030] Furthermore, a protective shoe sole can be designed to protect a shoe sole according to a second aspect of the invention, wherein the protective shoe sole is manufactured according to a method according to a first aspect of the invention.
[0031] According to a third aspect of the invention, the above problem is further solved by a set according to the invention for producing a protective shoe sole, comprising: a molding compound for taking an impression of a shoe sole; at least one deformable, in particular thermally deformable, plastic plate for reproducing the shoe sole impression.
[0032] Reproducing the shoe sole imprint can be understood to mean that the thermally deformable plastic plate can replicate the shoe sole imprint, in particular to form a protective shoe sole.
[0033] This results in the same advantages with regard to a set according to the invention as have already been described with regard to a method according to the invention and / or a protective shoe sole according to the invention.
[0034] Furthermore, in a set for the production of a protective shoe sole, it is conceivable that the set comprises: at least one mold for receiving the molding compound; a container for arranging the at least one mold of the molding compound, the at least one mold and the at least one thermally deformable plastic plate, wherein the at least one mold and the container are designed as a single, integrated component.
[0035] A mold can be a container bounded by a base and walls surrounding the base. The walls can have a height of 1 to 25 cm, preferably 4 to 10 cm. This prevents the molding compound from running, especially with low viscosity, and ensures that the plastic plate cannot be pressed into the molding compound. This has the advantage of allowing for particularly reliable production of a protective shoe sole.
[0036] The container can be, for example, a cardboard box or a plastic box suitable for holding or arranging at least the molding compound—in particular, two components of a molding compound: at least one mold and at least one thermoformable plastic sheet. The container may contain internal compartments to arrange the various components, particularly in a non-slip manner. Furthermore, the container may have a lid that can be opened and closed. The mold and the container can be designed as a single, integrated component. The mold can be part of the container, and in particular, it can be part of the container's lid. By designing the mold and container as a single, integrated component, material can be saved and the set can be manufactured cost-effectively.
[0037] Furthermore, in a set for manufacturing protective shoe soles, it is conceivable that the container could hold several, especially two, molds. Two molds offer the advantage of producing perfectly fitting protective shoe soles for both shoes of a pair. In particular, all or just one mold can be integrated with the container as a single, cohesive component. This eliminates the need to reuse a mold when producing multiple protective shoe soles, ensuring a precise fit.
[0038] With regard to the present invention, in a set for manufacturing a protective shoe sole, it is conceivable that the thermoformable plastic sheet is in particular no larger than the length and width of the container and / or the thickness of the plastic sheet is in particular 0.1 to 50 mm, preferably 0.5 to 10 mm, particularly preferably 1 to 5 mm.
[0039] The dimensions of the plastic sheet are important, as they can limit the size of the protective shoe sole. The dimensions of the plastic sheet, especially in a set, can be limited by the container in which it is placed. Therefore, a long side of the plastic sheet cannot be longer than the longest side of the container. Similarly, the short side of the plastic sheet cannot be longer than the width of the container. This ensures that the plastic sheet fits inside the container. The dimensions of the plastic sheet can be 4 to 60 cm in length, preferably 15 to 40 cm, and 1 to 40 cm in width, preferably 5 to 20 cm. This allows at least one shoe sole to be particularly well protected from wear by the protective shoe sole.
[0040] With regard to the present invention, it is also conceivable that in a set for manufacturing a protective shoe sole, the plastic plate comprises at least part of one of the following materials: - Thermoplastic polyurethane TPU, - Thermoplastic elastomers TPE, - Polyethylene PE, - Bio-based plastics.
[0041] TPU exhibits high abrasion resistance. TPE is readily recyclable. PE has high chemical resistance. Bio-based plastics can be understood as plastics made from renewable raw materials, both biodegradable and non-biodegradable, making them particularly environmentally friendly. By choosing one of these materials, at least one shoe sole can be particularly well protected against wear and tear, as the material is especially durable.
[0042] With regard to the present invention, it is also conceivable that in a set for the production of a protective shoe sole, the molding compound comprises at least partially one of the following materials: - silicone, - Natural rubber, - Alginate, - Plaster, - Polyurethane, - Thermoplastic, - Harz Mountains.
[0043] Silicone has significant heat resistance. Natural rubber exhibits high elasticity. Alginate is particularly biocompatible. Plaster is especially easy to process. Polyurethane is waterproof. Thermoplastics are readily recyclable. Resins have high strength. By choosing one of these materials for the molding compound, at least one shoe sole can be manufactured with a particularly precise fit, as the material can reproduce the contour or shape of a shoe sole very well. Furthermore, a set for manufacturing a protective shoe sole according to a third aspect of the invention can be designed, wherein the manufacturing is carried out using a method according to a first aspect of the invention, and the protective shoe sole is a protective shoe sole for protecting a shoe sole according to a second aspect of the invention.
[0044] Further advantages, features, and details of the invention will become apparent from the following description, in which several exemplary embodiments of the invention are described in detail with reference to the drawings. The features mentioned in the claims and in the description can each be essential to the invention individually or in any combination. Fig. 1 a method according to the invention comprising 4 steps, Fig. 2 a method according to the invention comprising 11 steps, Fig. 3 a protective shoe sole according to the invention with several deformations, Fig. 4 a protective shoe sole according to the invention with a deformation, Fig. 5 a set according to the invention, Fig. 6 a set according to the invention with deformed impression material, and Fig. 7 a container according to the invention.
[0045] In the following figures, identical reference numerals are used for the same technical features, even for different embodiments.
[0046] Fig. Figure 1 shows four process steps S1, S2, S3, and S4. The first process step, S1, describes the heating 401 of a thermoformable plastic sheet 202. This heating 401 can be carried out, for example, by placing the plastic sheet 202 into a liquid bath, preferably a water bath or an oven. The heating 401 can be monitored with a thermometer. In particular, the thermometer can be in contact with the plastic sheet 202. The purpose of the heating 401 is to raise the temperature of the thermoformable or thermoplastic plastic sheet 202 to the temperature at which the plastic sheet 202 is plastically deformable. It is possible to heat only a portion or area of the plastic sheet 202.
[0047] The second process step S2 can comprise placing the heated plastic plate 202 onto an impression material 201. The heated plastic plate 202 can be placed, in particular, onto a flat surface of the impression material 201. The plastic plate 202 can lie completely on the impression material 201, with the side of the impression material 201 that contacts the plastic plate 202 being at least as large as the side of the plastic plate 202 that contacts the impression material 201. It is also conceivable that the plastic plate 202 is only partially placed on an impression material 201, so that part of the plastic plate 202 is not in contact with the impression material 201.
[0048] The third process step S3 can include pressing the heated plastic plate 202, in particular with a shoe sole 300, into the molding compound 201. In other words, the heated plastic plate 202 from process step S1, which is placed on the molding compound 201 in the second process step S2, can be pressed into the molding compound 201 in this step, for example with a shoe sole 300. The pressing in 403 can cause the plastic plate 202 to deform plastically. It is also possible that the molding compound 201 will deform plastically. The pressing in 403 can be carried out with a shoe sole mold, by hand, or with the shoe sole 300, which is later to be protected by the protective shoe sole 100. The molding compound 201 can create resistance to the pressing in 403 of the plastic plate 202, so that the contour orThe shape 203 of the shoe sole 300, which can be used for pressing in 403, can be precisely transferred to the plastic plate 202. "Precisely" in this context can mean that distinctive contours of the shoe sole 300, such as studs, cleats, spikes, heels, or similar features, are transferred to the plastic plate 202. By pressing in 403 and shaping the plastic plate 202, the plastic plate 202 is formed into a protective shoe sole 100.
[0049] The fourth process step S4 can include removing the plastic plate 202 from the molding compound 201. Removing the plastic plate 202 can include detaching the deformed plastic plate 202, or the protective shoe sole 100, from the molding compound 201 and separating it from the shoe sole 300. Furthermore, the detached, deformed plastic plate 202 can be described as the protective shoe sole 100.
[0050] In summary, the process S1 to S4 is suitable for transforming a thermoformable plastic sheet 202 into a protective shoe sole 100.
[0051] Fig. Figure 2 shows eleven process steps S1 to S11, whereby the process steps can be carried out in any order and are not restricted by the order shown here.
[0052] The first process step S1 can include mixing 405 two components of the impression material 201 to activate the impression material. Activation may be necessary for materials where at least two phases must be mixed for activation. Activating an impression material 201 by mixing 405 at least two phases can be understood as the process by which two different components (or phases) of an impression material 201 are mixed together to initiate a chemical reaction that leads to the curing or solidification of the impression material 201. The time required for complete curing or solidification varies depending on the impression material 201 and the temperature. It is conceivable that an impression material 201 cures within a few minutes, while it is also conceivable that curing may take several hours. In particular, a curing time of 1 minute to 6 hours, preferably 20 to 40 minutes, can be provided.
[0053] The second process step S2 involves dispensing 406 of an impression material 201 into a mold 203. Filling or dispensing 406 of the impression material 201 into a mold 203 can be helpful in preventing inaccurate or faulty reproduction during curing. Pouring the material into a mold 203 ensures that it assumes the exact shape 203 and the desired dimensions. It also provides the necessary support and ensures that the impression material 201 does not lose its structure. To achieve consistent and repeatable results, it can be important that the impression material 201 always cures under the same conditions. Pouring it into a mold 203 ensures that the impression material 201 cures under at least nearly identical conditions, leading to precise and consistent impressions.
[0054] The third process step S3 comprises deforming 407 the impression material 201 by pressing 403 a shoe sole 300 into the impression material 201. The shoe sole 300 can be pressed carefully and evenly into the still soft and malleable impression material 201. It is important to press the shoe sole 300 straight and evenly to obtain a precise impression. Likewise, all relevant parts of the shoe sole 300, especially prominent deformations 101 such as studs, cleats, spikes, or heels, can be pressed completely and evenly into the impression material 201 to obtain an accurate replica of the shoe sole 300. During the pressing process, consistent pressure is advantageous to ensure that no air pockets or voids are formed.
[0055] The fourth process step S4 comprises curing 409 of the impression material 201 before placing 402 of the plastic plate 202. After pressing 403 of the shoe sole 300 into the impression material, the impression material 201 can cure for the required time. This curing time can vary depending on the material, its thickness, and / or the amount of material used. During curing 409, it may be important to avoid moving the shoe sole 300 within the impression material 201 as much as possible to prevent distortion of the impression. During pressing 403 of the shoe sole 300 into the impression material 201, the shoe can be moved to make the impression of the shoe sole 300 0.1 to 50 mm, preferably 0.5 to 10 mm, and particularly preferably 1 to 5 mm, larger than the shoe sole 300.
[0056] The fifth process step S5 comprises the removal 408 of the shoe sole 300 from the deformed impression material 201. After the impression material 201 has at least partially hardened, the shoe sole 300 can be carefully pulled out of the impression material 201 or removed. Subsequently, any residues of the impression material 201 on the shoe sole 300 can be removed.
[0057] The sixth process step, S6, involves heating a thermoformable plastic sheet 202. Thermoplastic materials have a specific softening temperature at which they become malleable. When heating the thermoformable or thermoplastic plastic sheet 202, it is important to reach the softening temperature, or the temperature at which the plastic sheet 202 becomes malleable, without exceeding it, to avoid overheating or decomposition of the material. The temperature can vary depending on the material of the plastic sheet 202. The temperature can range between 50 and 150 degrees Celsius. Furthermore, the material can be heated uniformly to avoid stresses and uneven deformation. Uneven heating can lead to different strength zones within the material.Heating 401 can be achieved using convection ovens, infrared heaters, hot air guns, or a liquid bath, preferably a water bath. The duration of heating 401 can be adjusted to the thickness and / or size of the plastic sheet 202. A temperature monitoring system, such as a thermometer, can be used to monitor the temperature. The plastic sheet 202 can be heated in a liquid at a temperature of 50 to 150 degrees Celsius, preferably 80 to 100 degrees Celsius, and particularly preferably 85 to 90 degrees Celsius.
[0058] The seventh process step S7 comprises placing the heated plastic plate 202 onto a molding compound 201. This involves the Fig. 2 around the previously deformed impression material 201 from process step S5. It may be provided that the impression material 201 is also tempered to ensure even better deformability of the thermoformable plastic plate 202.
[0059] The eighth process step S8 comprises pressing the heated plastic plate 202, in particular with a shoe sole 300, into the molding compound 201. The molding compound 201 can be the deformed molding compound 201 from process step S5, with the heated plastic plate 202 from process step S6 resting on the deformed molding compound 201. After heating 401, the plastic plate 202 remains malleable only for a limited time. Therefore, the deformation process can take place within a limited time, in particular from 1 second to 300 seconds, preferably 10 seconds to 60 seconds, to achieve the desired shape before the plastic plate solidifies again. The deformation process can be carried out by uniformly pressing the heated plastic plate 202 into the molding compound using a shoe sole 300. The same shoe sole 300 can be used for pressing 403 into the molding compound 201 as was previously used to deform 407 the molding compound 201.
[0060] The ninth process step S9 comprises the curing 410 of the plastic plate 202, particularly in contact with the pressed-in impression material 201 or in liquid, preferably water. After deformation 101, the thermoplastic plastic plate 202 can be cooled in a controlled manner to minimize stresses and distortion and to achieve curing of the plastic plate 202. The material should cool slowly and uniformly to ensure uniform crystallization or curing. Water or a water bath can be an efficient method for the rapid and uniform cooling of a thermoformable plastic plate 202. Alternatively, the plastic plate 202 can also cure in the impression material 201.
[0061] The tenth process step S10 comprises removing the plastic plate 202 from the molding compound 201. Removing the plastic plate 202 can include detaching the deformed plastic plate 202, or the protective shoe sole 100, from the molding compound 201 and separating it from the shoe sole 300. Furthermore, the detached deformed plastic plate 202 can be described as the protective shoe sole 100. The removal of the plastic plate 202 can be carried out in a stepwise process, first removing an edge and then proceeding with the removal of the deformed plastic plate 202 piece by piece.
[0062] The eleventh process step, S11, comprises cutting off 411 the sides of the plastic plate 202 that protrude above the impression material 201. This step can also be understood as post-processing. Furthermore, this process step can include, for example, smoothing edges or removing excess material.
[0063] In summary, the process S1 to S11 is suitable for transforming a thermoformable plastic sheet 202 into a protective shoe sole 100.
[0064] The Fig. Figure 3 shows a protective shoe sole 100 according to the invention with several deformations 101. The figure also shows the Fig. 2 a shoe sole 300 of a football boot with studs. From the Fig. Figure 3 shows that the deformations 101 of the protective shoe sole 100 correspond to the studs of the shoe sole 300. Therefore, the protective shoe sole 100 can be attached to the shoe sole 300. This attachment can be a force-fit and form-fit connection. Particularly during walking, the protective shoe sole 100 is securely connected to the shoe sole 300, as it is held in place by the pressure exerted on the shoe sole 300. The protective shoe sole 100 can be quickly and easily removed by applying tension between the shoe sole 300 and the protective shoe sole 100.
[0065] The Fig. Figure 4 shows a protective shoe sole 100 according to the invention with a deformation 101. A shoe sole 300 with a shaped element is also shown. The shaped element can be a click system, in particular for cycling shoes or ski boots. From the Fig. Figure 4 shows that the deformations 101 of the protective shoe sole 100 correspond to the shaped element of the shoe sole 300 and that the protective shoe sole 100 can be attached to the shoe sole 300. The protective shoe sole 100 can comprise at least part of one of the following materials: - Thermoplastic polyurethane TPU, - Thermoplastic elastomers TPE, - Polyethylene PE - Bio-based plastics.
[0066] The Fig. Figure 5 represents a set 200 according to the invention. The set 200 comprises an impression material 201 for taking an impression of a shoe sole 300 and at least one deformable, in particular thermally deformable, plastic plate 202 for reproducing the shoe sole impression. The impression material 201 can comprise at least partially one of the following materials: - silicone, - Natural rubber, - Alginate, - Plaster, - Polyurethane, - Thermoplastic, - Harz Mountains.
[0067] The impression material 201 can have a curing time of 1 minute to 6 hours, preferably 20 to 40 minutes.
[0068] Furthermore, the plastic sheet 202 may at least partially comprise one of the following materials: - Thermoplastic polyurethane TPU, - Thermoplastic elastomers TPE, - Polyethylene PE.
[0069] The dimensions for the plastic plate 202 can be 4 to 60 cm in length, preferably 15 to 40 cm, and 1 to 40 cm in width, preferably 5 to 20 cm.
[0070] The Fig. Figure 6 shows a set 200 according to the invention with deformed impression material 201. The contours of a football boot are recognizable in the impression material 201. The pattern in the impression material 201 can, for example, consist of a shoe sole 300 made of Fig. 3 results. The molding compound 201 corresponds to state S5 from the Fig. 2.
[0071] The Fig.Figure 7 shows a container 204 according to the invention with two molds 203. At least one of the two molds 203 can be designed as a single, integrated component with the container 204. A mold 203 can be a container bounded by a base and walls extending around the base. The walls of the mold 203 can have a height of 1 to 25 cm, preferably 4 to 10 cm. A plastic sheet 202, which could be included in this set 200 but is not shown, could be at most as large as the length and width of the container, with the thickness of the plastic sheet 202 being particularly 0.1 to 50 mm, preferably 0.5 to 10 mm, and most preferably 1 to 5 mm. The container 204 can be suitable for holding all components of the set 200 in a closed state.The set 200 can be designed as a closed container 204, comprising at least a mold 203, a molding compound 201 and at least one thermoformable plastic plate 202. Reference symbol list 100 protective shoe soles 101 Deformation 200 sets 201 Impression material 202 plastic sheet 203 Form 204 containers 300 shoe sole 401 Heating 402 Hang up 403 Press in 404 Remove 405 Mixing 406 Enter 407 Deformation 408 Remove 409 Curing of the impression material 410 Curing of the plastic sheet 411 Cut off
Claims
[1] Method for manufacturing a protective shoe sole (100), comprising at least the following steps: - Heating (401) a thermoformable plastic sheet (202), - Placing (402) the heated plastic plate (202) onto a molding compound (201), - Pressing (403) the heated plastic plate (202), in particular with a shoe sole (300), into the molding compound (201), - Removing (404) the plastic plate (202) from the impression material (201). [2] Method for manufacturing a protective shoe sole (100) according to claim 1, wherein the plastic plate (202) is heated in liquid at a temperature of 50 to 150 degrees Celsius, preferably 80 to 100 degrees Celsius, particularly preferably 85 to 90 degrees Celsius. [3] Method for manufacturing a protective shoe sole (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the method additionally comprises at least one of the following steps: - Mixing (405) two components of the impression material to activate the impression material, - Pouring (406) a molding compound (201) into a mold (203), - Deformation (407) of the impression material (201) by pressing (403) a shoe sole (300) into the impression material (201), - Removal (408) of the shoe sole (300) from the deformed impression material (201), - Curing (409) of the impression material before placing (402) the plastic plate (202), - Hardening (410) of the plastic plate (202), especially in contact with the pressed-in impression material (201) or in liquid, - Cutting off (411) the sides of the plastic plate (202) that extend above the impression material (201). [4] Method for manufacturing a protective shoe sole (100) according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein a fastening means is placed between the molding compound (201) and the plastic plate (202) before the plastic plate (202) is pressed (403) into the molding compound (201). [5] Protective shoe sole (100), characterized by , that the protective shoe sole has at least a partial deformation (101) to ensure a precise and secure fit against a shoe sole (300). [6] Protective shoe sole (100) according to claim 5, wherein the deformation comprises at least one of the following shapes: - Studs, especially for football boots, rugby boots or running shoes, - Click systems, especially for cycling shoes or ski boots. [7] Protective shoe sole (100) according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the protective shoe sole (100) has a thickness of 0.5 to 10 mm, preferably 1 to 5 mm, wherein the protective shoe sole (100) comprises at least part of one of the following materials: - Thermoplastic polyurethane TPU, - Thermoplastic elastomers TPE, - Polyethylene PE. [8] Protective shoe sole (100) according to one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the protective shoe sole (100) is manufactured according to a method according to one of claims 1 to 4. [9] Set (200) for the manufacture of a protective shoe sole, comprising - an impression material (201) for taking an impression of a shoe sole, - at least a deformable, in particular thermally deformable, plastic plate (202) for reproducing the shoe sole imprint. [10] Set (200) for manufacturing a protective shoe sole according to claim 9, further comprising - at least one form (203) for receiving the impression material, - a container (204) for arranging the at least one mold, the molding compound and the at least one thermally deformable plastic plate (202), wherein the at least one mold (203) and the container (204) are designed as a single, integrated component. [11] Set (200) for manufacturing a protective shoe sole according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the container (204) can accommodate several, in particular two, molds (203). [12] Set (200) for manufacturing a protective shoe sole according to one of claims 9 to 11, wherein the thermoformable plastic sheet (202) is at most as large as the length and width of the container, wherein the thickness of the plastic plate (202) is in particular 0.5 to 10 mm, preferably 1 to 5 mm. [13] Set (200) for manufacturing a protective shoe sole according to one of claims 9 to 12, wherein the plastic plate (202) comprises at least partially one of the following materials: - Thermoplastic polyurethane TPU, - Thermoplastic elastomers TPE, - Polyethylene PE. [14] Set (200) for manufacturing a protective shoe sole according to one of claims 9 to 13, wherein the molding compound (201) comprises at least partially one of the following materials: - silicone, - Natural rubber, - Alginate, - Plaster, - Polyurethane, - Thermoplastic, - Harz Mountains. [15] Set (200) for manufacturing a protective shoe sole according to any one of claims 9 to 14, wherein the manufacturing is carried out using a method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the protective shoe sole is a protective shoe sole (100) for protecting a shoe sole (300) according to any one of claims 5 to 8.
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