last

Abstract

To easily and affordably provide lasts tailored to each customer's foot shape and requirements. [Solution] The last L comprises a last body 10 having an outer surface shape corresponding to a predetermined standard foot shape, and an additional part 20 that, when fixed to the last body 10, changes the outer surface shape of the last L to a shape different from the standard foot shape.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a shoe mold used in the manufacture of shoes.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a technique for manufacturing custom-order shoes according to the foot shape and requirements (such as a fitting feeling and a cushioning feeling) of each customer has been proposed (for example, see Patent Document 1 below).

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for manufacturing custom-order shoes by modifying a shoe mold used for forming an upper according to the foot shape of each customer. Specifically, in Patent Document 1, the shoe mold is composed of a common part with an unchanged shape and position, and first and second modification parts with an unchanged shape and a changeable position. In the above shoe mold, the toe part and the part extending from the midfoot to the heel are used as the common part, the parts corresponding to the first toe tip and the fifth toe tip are used as the first position modification parts, respectively, and the instep part is used as the second position modification part. The second position modification part is also configured to be able to change the angle with respect to the common part.

[0004] In Patent Document 1, by changing the distance between a pair of left and right first position modification parts by a position adjustment mechanism, the dimension in the width direction of the midfoot part of the shoe mold changes. Also, by moving the second position modification part in the vertical direction by a position adjustment mechanism, the height dimension of the midfoot part of the shoe mold changes. Further, by changing the angle of the second position modification part with respect to the common part by a position adjustment mechanism, the shape of the instep part of the shoe mold changes. In Patent Document 1, by changing the dimension in the width direction, the height dimension, and the shape of the instep part of the shoe mold in this way, the shoe mold is made to match the foot shape of each customer.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

[0006] However, the above last had a problem: the structure of the position adjustment mechanism for adjusting the positions of the first and second position change sections was complex, making it time-consuming to manufacture and significantly more expensive than a normal last. In addition, while the width and instep height around the midfoot could be adjusted with the above last, the width and shape could not be adjusted throughout the anterior-posterior direction, which meant that it could not always accommodate the foot shape and requests of individual customers. Furthermore, because the dimensions of the above last were increased by moving the position change section away from the common section, a gap was created between the common section and the position change section. In the above last, a flat plate member was incorporated to fill the gap, but even if the gap was filled with the flat plate member, a step was created in the outer shape of the last, which could negatively affect the molding of the upper.

[0007] This invention has been made in view of the above points, and its purpose is to enable the easy and inexpensive provision of lasts that meet the foot shape and requirements of each customer. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] To achieve the above objective, a first embodiment of the present invention is a last used for molding the upper of a shoe, characterized by comprising a last body having an outer surface shape corresponding to a predetermined standard foot shape, and an additional part that, when fixed to the last body, changes the outer surface shape of the last to a shape different from the standard foot shape.

[0009] Here, a predetermined standard foot shape refers to a relatively small foot shape selected from various foot shapes (various foot shapes in which at least one of the size (foot length), width (foot width), and girth (foot circumference) differs) that are assumed for each shoe size (for example, every 1 cm). For example, if four different sizes are assumed for a size 25 cm: 25 cm, 25.25 cm, 25.5 cm, and 25.75 cm, and ten different widths and girths are assumed: A, B, C, D, E, 2E, 3E, 4E, F, and G, then a relatively small foot shape that can be modified by fixing additional parts can be selected from the 40 types of foot shapes to be the standard 25 cm foot shape. For example, a foot shape with a size 25 cm and a width and girth of A (the smallest foot shape in terms of size, width, and girth) can be selected. It should be noted that the standard foot shape is preferably the smallest foot shape in terms of size, width, and girth (foot shape A for 25 cm), but it is not limited to this. A standard foot shape can be defined as a relatively small foot shape from among the various foot shapes expected for each shoe size, provided that the outer shape can be modified by fixing additional parts. Furthermore, an outer shape corresponding to a predetermined standard foot shape includes not only cases where the outer shape of the last itself is identical to the predetermined standard foot shape, but also cases where the outer shape of the last is modified by changing the size, width, or other dimensions based on the predetermined standard foot shape to improve the shoe's fit and other functionalities.

[0010] According to the first form of the last, the outer shape of the last can be changed from the standard foot shape by fixing additional parts to a last body having an outer shape corresponding to a predetermined standard foot shape. By configuring the last in this way, instead of creating the same number of lasts for the various foot shapes expected for each shoe size, only the last body corresponding to the standard foot shape is created, and by creating multiple types of additional parts, a single last body can be used to create lasts that can accommodate various foot shapes. Therefore, compared to creating the same number of lasts for the various foot shapes expected for each shoe size, the effort, cost, and storage space required for last production can be significantly reduced. Consequently, according to the first form, lasts that meet each customer's foot shape and requirements can be easily and inexpensively provided.

[0011] The second embodiment is characterized in that, in the first embodiment, the additional part has a contact surface that conforms to the outer surface of the last body, and is configured to change the outer shape of the last to a shape different from the standard foot shape by fixing the contact surface to the outer surface of the last body in contact with the outer surface of the last body.

[0012] In the second embodiment, the additional part changes the outer shape of the last by being fixed in contact with the outer surface of the last body. With such an additional part, the outer shape of the last can be easily changed. Furthermore, since the additional part has a contact surface that conforms to the outer surface of the last body, the additional part can be easily positioned at a predetermined fixing position on the outer surface of the last body by aligning the contact surface with the outer surface of the last body.

[0013] The third form is characterized in that, in the second form, the additional part is configured such that at least one of the last size, width, instep height, and arch height differs from the standard foot shape.

[0014] According to the third embodiment, the size, width, instep height, and arch height of the last can be easily changed simply by fixing additional parts to predetermined fixed positions on the outer surface of the last body.

[0015] The fourth embodiment is characterized in that, in the second embodiment, the additional part is formed such that its thickness decreases towards the outer edge.

[0016] In the fourth embodiment, by forming the additional part so that its thickness decreases towards the outer edge, when the additional part is fixed in contact with the outer surface of the last body, the outer surface of the last body and the surface of the additional part can be made smooth and continuous (without creating a step). Therefore, according to the fourth embodiment, it is possible to provide a last with a smooth outer surface shape that is close to the shape of a human foot and has no steps.

[0017] The fifth form is characterized in that, in any one of the second to fourth forms, the above-mentioned additional parts are molded using a 3D printer.

[0018] According to the fifth form, additional parts are to be molded using a 3D printer, making it easy to accurately mold additional parts with complex shapes.

[0019] The sixth embodiment is characterized in that, in the first embodiment, the last body is composed of a first member on the inner side and a second member on the outer side, and the additional part is fixed to the first and second members while sandwiched between them, thereby changing the outer shape of the last to a shape wider than the standard foot shape.

[0020] In the sixth form, the last body is composed of two members: a first member on the medial side and a second member on the lateral side. The additional part is fixed in place by being sandwiched between the two members of the last body, thereby changing the outer shape of the last to a shape wider than the standard foot shape from the front to the rear. With such an additional part, the outer shape of the last can be easily changed to a shape wider than the standard foot shape from the front to the rear. Furthermore, by composing the last body with two members, the additional part can be easily incorporated into the last body, making it easy to change the outer shape of the last. [Effects of the Invention]

[0021] As explained above, according to the present invention, it is possible to easily and inexpensively provide a last that is tailored to each customer's foot shape and requirements. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0022] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a rear perspective view of Embodiment 1. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is the final exploded perspective view of Figure 1. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a perspective view of the last of Embodiment 2. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view of the last of Figure 3. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a perspective view of the last of Embodiment 3. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is an exploded perspective view of the last of Figure 5. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a perspective view of the last of Embodiment 4. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is an exploded perspective view of the last of Figure 7. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a perspective view of the last of Embodiment 5. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is an exploded perspective view of the last of Figure 9. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a perspective view of the last of Embodiment 6. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is an exploded perspective view of the last of Figure 11.

Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0023] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail based on the drawings. The following embodiments are merely preferred examples in essence and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention, its applications, or its uses.

[0024] 《Embodiment 1 of the Invention》 Figures 1 and 2 are a perspective view and an exploded perspective view showing the left-foot last L among the lasts L according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. Since the right-foot last L is configured symmetrically to the left-foot last L, the description thereof is omitted, and hereinafter, the left-foot last L shown in Figures 1 and 2 will be described. In the following description, the front (front side) and the rear (rear side) represent the positional relationship in the foot length direction of the last L, and the inner armor side and the outer armor side represent the positional relationship in the foot width direction of the last L. Further, in the following description, the portions corresponding to the forefoot, midfoot, and rearfoot of the human foot of the last L are referred to as the forefoot portion F, the midfoot portion M, and the rearfoot portion H, respectively.

[0025] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the last L comprises a last body 10 and an additional part 20 fixed to the last body 10.

[0026] [Last unit] The last body 10 is configured to have an outer shape corresponding to a predetermined standard foot shape. The predetermined standard foot shape refers to a relatively small foot shape selected from various foot shapes (various foot shapes in which at least one of the size (foot length), width (foot width), and girth (foot circumference) differs) that are assumed for each shoe size (for example, in 1 cm increments). In this embodiment 1, the last body 10 is configured to have an outer shape corresponding to a standard foot shape of size 25 cm. Specifically, in this embodiment 1, for size 25 cm, two different sizes, 25 cm and 25.5 cm, are assumed, and 10 different widths and girths, A, B, C, D, E, 2E, 3E, 4E, F, and G, are assumed, and the foot shape with width and girth A for size 25 cm (the smallest foot shape among the assumed 20 types of foot shapes) is defined as the standard foot shape for 25 cm. In other words, in this embodiment 1, the last body 10 is configured to have an outer shape with width and girth A for size 25 cm.

[0027] The last body 10 can be made of a relatively hard material, such as a relatively hard resin like polyamide (PA), polyethylene (PE), or polyurethane (PU), a metal like aluminum (AL), or wood. However, the material of the last body 10 is not limited to the above; any material that exhibits sufficient strength to prevent deformation during the molding of the upper may be used.

[0028] [Additional parts] The additional part 20 is fixed to the last body 10, thereby changing the outer shape of the last L to a shape different from the standard foot shape (outer shape of the last body 10). In this embodiment 1, the additional part 20 is fixed to the last body 10 in contact with the outer surface of the last body 10, thereby making the width of the last L larger than the standard foot shape and lowering the height of the arch portion of the last L compared to the standard foot shape. Specifically, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the additional part 20 is composed of two side parts 21 and 22: an outer instep side part 21 and an inner instep side part 22.

[0029] The outer side part 21 extends in the front-rear direction along the outer end of the last body 10 and has a curved surface 21a and a curved surface 21b. The surface 21a constitutes a part of the outer surface of the last L. The curved surface 21b is shaped to conform to the portion of the outer surface of the last body 10 to which the outer side part 21 is fixed. When the outer side part 21 is fixed to the last body 10, the curved surface 21b becomes a contact surface that abuts against the outer surface of the last body 10 at the fixing position.

[0030] The medial side part 22 extends in the front-rear direction along the medial end of the last body 10 and has a curved surface 22a and a curved surface 22b. The surface 22a constitutes a part of the outer surface of the last L. The curved surface 22b is shaped to conform to the portion of the outer surface of the last body 10 to which the medial side part 22 is fixed. When fixing the medial side part 22 to the last body 10, the curved surface 22b becomes a contact surface that abuts against the outer surface of the last body 10 at the fixing position.

[0031] Furthermore, the statement that "the back surfaces 21b and 22b of each side part 21 and 22 are shaped to conform to a part of the outer surface of the last body 10" includes not only cases where the back surfaces 21b and 22b are the same shape as a part of the outer surface of the last body 10, but also cases where the side parts 21 and 22 can be brought into contact with a part of the outer surface of the last body 10 by bending them at a predetermined fixed position. In this embodiment 1, the back surfaces 21b and 22b of each side part 21 and 22 are formed to be the same shape as a part of the outer surface of the last body 10 that they contact at a predetermined fixed position.

[0032] In this embodiment 1, both side parts 21 and 22 extend from the forefoot F to the rearfoot H of the last body 10. More specifically, in this embodiment 1, the two side parts 21 and 22 extend from the toe to the heel.

[0033] The outer instep side part 21 is shaped so that the width of the last L is greater than that of a standard foot shape, with the thickness increasing near the middle of the forefoot F in the anterior-posterior direction (the distance between the surface 21a and the back surface 21b increasing). The inner instep side part 22 is shaped so that the height of the arch of the last L is lower than that of a standard foot shape, with the thickness increasing near the middle of the midfoot N in the anterior-posterior direction (the distance between the surface 22a and the back surface 22b increasing).

[0034] Furthermore, both side parts 21 and 22 are formed so that their thickness decreases towards the outer edge (the boundary between the surface 21a, 22a and the back surface 21b, 22b). By forming each side part 21 and 22 in this way, when each side part 21 and 22 is fixed in contact with the outer surface of the last body 10, the outer surface of the last body 10 and the surface 21a, 22a of each side part 21 and 22 can be made smooth and continuous (without creating any steps).

[0035] For example, a soft resin with a Shore A hardness of 70 to 90 can be used as the material for the two side parts 21 and 22. However, the material for the two side parts 21 and 22 is not limited to the above; any material can be used as long as it has enough flexibility to be deformed to adhere closely to the outer surface of the last body 10 when fixing it to the last body 10, while not deforming during the molding of the upper. In this embodiment 1, the two side parts 21 and 22 are molded using a 3D printer. By molding them with a 3D printer in this way, even if the shape of the two side parts 21 and 22 is a complex curved shape, it can be easily formed into the shape as designed.

[0036] As shown in Figure 1, the two side parts 21 and 22 are fixed to predetermined fixed positions on the last body 10. The outer side part 21 is fixed to a predetermined fixed position on the outer end of the last body 10, and the inner side part 22 is fixed to a predetermined fixed position on the inner end of the last body 10. At their respective predetermined fixed positions, the back surfaces 21b and 22b of the two side parts 21 and 22 are in contact with the outer surface of the last body 10 without any gaps. The two side parts 21 and 22 are fixed by a fixing means such as adhesive tape while their back surfaces 21b and 22b are in contact with the outer surface of the last body 10.

[0037] Furthermore, the means for fixing the additional part 20 to the last body 10 is not limited to adhesive tape; any means that allows the additional part 20 to be attached to and detached from the last body 10 may be used. In addition to adhesive tape, other means such as hook-and-loop fasteners, resin bolts, metal bolts, etc., can be used to fix the additional part 20 to the last body 10.

[0038] - How to create a last for custom-ordered shoes - Next, we will explain how to create a last L for manufacturing custom-ordered shoes tailored to each customer's foot shape and requirements.

[0039] First, the customer's foot shape is measured and determined. Then, the last body 10, which is the closest size to the determined foot shape, and the additional parts 20 necessary for creating the last L, which has an outer shape suitable for the determined foot shape, are selected and prepared.

[0040] For example, if a customer's foot shape is 25cm in size, with a width and girth of C, an arch height lower than the standard foot shape, and a standard instep height, then a last body 10 having an outer shape corresponding to a standard foot shape of size 25cm, and two side parts 21 and 22 fixed to the last body 10, thereby increasing the width of the last L compared to the standard foot shape and lowering the arch height of the last L compared to the standard foot shape, are selected as additional parts 20, resulting in a width and girth of C for the last L.

[0041] After selecting the main body 10 and the additional parts 20, the additional parts 20 (in this case, the two side parts 21 and 22) are fixed to the main body 10.

[0042] Specifically, the two side parts 21 and 22 are placed at predetermined fixing positions on the outer surface of the last body 10, along which the contact surfaces 21b and 22b are aligned. The two side parts 21 and 22 are then fixed to the last body 10 with their back surfaces 21b and 22b in contact with the outer surface of the last body 10 at the predetermined fixing positions. In this embodiment 1, the two side parts 21 and 22 are fixed to the last body 10 by wrapping adhesive tape around the two side parts 21 and 22, which are placed at predetermined fixing positions on the outer surface of the last body 10.

[0043] Based on the above, last L is created that is suitable for the foot shape of a customer with a size of 25cm, a width and girth of C, an arch height lower than the standard foot shape, and an instep height of the standard shape.

[0044] Furthermore, by changing the selected additional part 20 in the above manufacturing method, lasts L of the same size but with different external shapes can be produced. Also, by changing the size of the selected last body 10 in the above manufacturing method, lasts L of different sizes can be produced.

[0045] -Effects of Embodiment 1- As described above, according to the last L of this embodiment 1, the outer shape of the last L can be changed from the standard foot shape by fixing additional parts 20 to the last body 10 which has an outer shape corresponding to a predetermined standard foot shape. By configuring the last L in this way, instead of manufacturing the same number of last L for various foot shapes expected for each shoe size, only the last body 10 corresponding to the standard foot shape is manufactured, and by manufacturing multiple types of additional parts 20, a single last body 10 can be used to construct last L that can accommodate various foot shapes. Therefore, compared to manufacturing the same number of last L for various foot shapes expected for each shoe size, the effort required to manufacture the last L, the manufacturing cost, and the storage space for the last L can be significantly reduced. Accordingly, according to this embodiment 1, last L can be easily and inexpensively provided according to each customer's foot shape and requirements.

[0046] Furthermore, in this embodiment 1, the additional part 20 is configured to change the outer shape of the last L by being fixed in contact with the outer surface of the last body 10. With such an additional part 20, the outer shape of the last L can be easily changed. In addition, since the additional part 20 has back surfaces 21b and 22b that act as contact surfaces along the outer surface of the last body 10, the additional part 20 can be easily positioned at a predetermined fixing position on the outer surface of the last body 10 by aligning the contact surfaces 21b and 22b with the outer surface of the last body 10.

[0047] Furthermore, in this embodiment 1, the additional part 20 is configured to make the width of the last L and the height of the arch different from those of the standard foot shape. Therefore, according to this embodiment 1, the width of the last L and the height of the arch can be easily changed simply by fixing the additional part 20 to a predetermined fixing position on the outer surface of the last body 10.

[0048] Furthermore, in this embodiment 1, the additional part 20 is formed so that its thickness decreases towards the outer edge. By forming the additional part 20 in this way, when the additional part 20 is fixed in contact with the outer surface of the last body 10, the outer surface of the last body 10 and the surfaces 21a and 22b of the additional part 20 can be made smooth and continuous (without creating steps). Therefore, according to this embodiment 1, it is possible to provide a last L having a smooth outer surface shape that is close to the shape of a human foot and has no steps.

[0049] Furthermore, in this embodiment 1, the additional parts 20 are molded using a 3D printer, making it possible to easily and accurately mold additional parts 20 with complex shapes.

[0050] Embodiment 2 of the Invention The last L of Embodiment 2 differs from that of Embodiment 1 in the configuration of the additional part 20. Specifically, in Embodiment 1, the additional part 20 was fixed to the last body 10 to change the width of the last L and the height of the arch from the standard foot shape, whereas in Embodiment 2, the additional part 20 is fixed to the last body 10 to change only the height of the arch of the last L from the standard foot shape.

[0051] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, in Embodiment 2, the additional part 20 is composed of two arch parts 23 and 24: an outer arch part 23 and an inner arch part 24.

[0052] The outer arch part 23 extends in the front-rear direction along the outer end of the last body 10 and has a curved surface 23a and a curved surface 23b. The surface 23a constitutes a part of the outer surface of the last L. The curved surface 23b is shaped to conform to the portion of the outer surface of the last body 10 to which the outer arch part 23 is fixed. When fixing the outer arch part 23 to the last body 10, the curved surface 23b becomes a contact surface that abuts against the outer surface of the last body 10 at the fixing position.

[0053] The medial arch part 24 extends in the front-rear direction along the medial end of the last body 10 and has a curved surface 24a and a curved surface 24b. Surface 24a constitutes a part of the outer surface of the last L. Surface 22b is formed in a shape that conforms to the portion of the outer surface of the last body 10 to which the medial side part 22 is fixed. When fixing the medial side part 22 to the last body 10, surface 22b becomes a contact surface that abuts against the outer surface of the last body 10 at the fixing position.

[0054] Furthermore, the statement that "the back surfaces 23b and 24b of each arch part 23 and 24 are shaped to conform to a part of the outer surface of the last body 10" includes not only cases where the back surfaces 23b and 24b are the same shape as a part of the outer surface of the last body 10, but also cases where the arch parts 23 and 24 can be brought into contact with a part of the outer surface of the last body 10 by bending them at a predetermined fixed position. In this second embodiment, the back surfaces 23b and 24b of each arch part 23 and 24 are formed to be the same shape as a part of the outer surface of the last body 10 that they contact at a predetermined fixed position.

[0055] The two arch parts 23 and 24 extend from the forefoot F to the rearfoot H of the last body 10, similar to the two side parts 21 and 22 of Embodiment 1, but they extend in the anterior-posterior direction centered on the midfoot M, and their length in the anterior-posterior direction is shorter than that of the two side parts 21 and 22 of Embodiment 1.

[0056] In particular, the outer arch part 23 is significantly shorter in the front-to-back direction than the outer arch side part 21 of Embodiment 1. At a predetermined fixed position, its front end is located midway along the forefoot F behind the toe portion of the last body 10, and its rear end is located midway along the rearfoot H in front of the heel portion. On the other hand, the inner arch part 24, at a predetermined fixed position, has its front end located midway along the forefoot F behind the toe portion of the last body 10, but its rear end is located at the heel portion.

[0057] Furthermore, in Embodiment 2, the two arch parts 23 and 24 are fixed to the outer surface of the last body 10, thereby forming the arch portion of the last L to be lower than that of a standard foot shape. Specifically, the medial arch part 24 is formed in a shape similar to the medial side part 22 of Embodiment 1, where its thickness increases near the middle of the midfoot N in the anterior-posterior direction (the distance between the surface 24a and the back surface 24b increases).

[0058] Furthermore, the two arch parts 23 and 24 are formed in the same way as the two side parts 21 and 22 of Embodiment 1, so that their thickness decreases towards the outer edge (the boundary between the surface 23a, 24a and the back surface 23b, 24b). By forming each arch part 23 and 24 in this way, when each arch part 23 and 24 is fixed in contact with the outer surface of the last body 10, the outer surface of the last body 10 and the surface 23a, 24a of each arch part 23 and 24 can be made smooth (without creating a step) and continuous.

[0059] The materials for the two arch parts 23 and 24 can be the same as those for the two side parts 21 and 22 in Embodiment 1. Furthermore, the fastening means for the two arch parts 23 and 24 can also be the same as those in Embodiment 1.

[0060] The other components are configured similarly to the two side parts 21 and 22 of Embodiment 1. Then, the additional parts 20 (two arch parts 23 and 24) of Embodiment 2 are selected as the additional parts 20 necessary for creating a last L having an outer surface shape corresponding to the customer's foot shape, and when the additional parts 20 are fixed to the last body 10 in the same manner as in Embodiment 1, as shown in Figure 3, a last L suitable for a customer's foot shape with a lower arch height (gentler arch curve) than the last body 10 corresponding to a standard foot shape is created. The same effects as in Embodiment 1 can be achieved with a last L configured in this way.

[0061] Embodiment 3 of the Invention The last L of Embodiment 3 differs from that of Embodiment 1 in the configuration of the additional part 20. Specifically, the additional part 20 of Embodiment 3 is configured to change the instep height of the last L from that of the standard foot shape by being fixed to the last body 10.

[0062] As shown in Figures 5 and 6, in Embodiment 3, the additional part 20 is composed of a single bump part 25. The bump part 25 is sized to broadly cover the upper part of the last body 10.

[0063] The bump part 25 extends widely in the front-to-back and width directions along the upper portion of the last body 10, and has a curved surface 25a and a curved surface 25b. The surface 25a constitutes a part of the outer surface of the last L. The surface 25b is formed in a shape that conforms to the upper portion on the outer surface of the last body 10 to which the bump part 25 is fixed. When fixing the bump part 25 to the last body 10, the surface 25b becomes a contact surface that abuts against the outer surface of the last body 10 at the fixing position.

[0064] Furthermore, the statement that "the back surface 25b of the bump part 25 is shaped to conform to the upper part of the last body 10" includes not only cases where the back surface 25b has the same shape as the upper part of the last body 10, but also cases where the bump part 25 can be brought into contact with the upper part of the last body 10 by bending the bump part 25 at a predetermined fixed position. In this embodiment 3, the back surface 25b of the bump part 25 is formed to have the same shape as a part of the outer surface of the last body 10 that it contacts at a predetermined fixed position.

[0065] The bump part 25 is fixed to the upper part of the last body 10, thereby making the height of the upper part of the last L higher than that of a standard foot shape. Also, similar to the two side parts 21 and 22 of Embodiment 1, the bump part 25 is formed so that its thickness decreases towards the outer edge (the boundary between the surface 25a and the back surface 25b). By forming the bump part 25 in this way, when the bump part 25 is fixed in contact with the outer surface of the last body 10, the outer surface of the last body 10 and the surface 25a of the bump part 25 can be made smooth and continuous (without creating a step).

[0066] The material of the bump part 25 can be the same as the material of the two side parts 21 and 22 in Embodiment 1. Furthermore, the fixing means for the bump part 25 can also be the same as the fixing means in Embodiment 1.

[0067] The other components are configured similarly to the two side parts 21 and 22 of Embodiment 1. Furthermore, the additional part 20 (bump part 25) from Embodiment 3 is selected as the additional part 20 necessary for creating a last L suitable for the customer's foot shape. When the additional part 20 is fixed to the last body 10 in the same manner as in Embodiment 1, a last L suitable for a customer's foot shape with a higher instep than the last body 10 corresponding to a standard foot shape is created, as shown in Figure 5. A last L configured in this way can also achieve the same effects as in Embodiment 1.

[0068] Embodiment 4 of the Invention The last L of Embodiment 4 differs from that of Embodiment 1 in the configuration of the additional part 20. Specifically, the additional part 20 of Embodiment 4 is fixed to the last body 10, thereby changing the size (foot length) of the last L from the standard foot shape.

[0069] As shown in Figures 7 and 8, in Embodiment 4, the additional part 20 consists of one toe part 26. The toe part 26 is shaped to broadly cover the front side of the front end (toe portion) of the last body 10.

[0070] The toe part 26 extends in a curved direction along the front end of the last body 10 and has a surface 26a and a back surface 26b, both of which are curved surfaces. The surface 26a constitutes a part of the outer surface of the last L. The back surface 26b is formed in a shape that conforms to the front end (toe portion) on the outer surface of the last body 10 to which the toe part 26 is fixed. When fixing the toe part 26 to the last body 10, the back surface 26b becomes a contact surface that abuts against the outer surface of the last body 10 at the fixing position.

[0071] Furthermore, the statement that "the back surface 26b of the toe part 26 is shaped to conform to the front end of the last body 10" includes not only cases where the back surface 26b has the same shape as the front end of the last body 10, but also cases where the toe part 26 can be brought into contact with the toe portion of the last body 10 by bending the toe part 26 at a predetermined fixed position. In this embodiment 4, the back surface 26b of the toe part 26 is formed to have the same shape as a part of the outer surface of the last body 10 that it contacts at a predetermined fixed position.

[0072] The toe part 26 is fixed to the front end of the last body 10, and is formed to make the size (foot length) of the last L larger than that of a standard foot shape. Also, similar to the two side parts 21 and 22 of Embodiment 1, the toe part 26 is formed so that its thickness decreases towards the outer edge (the boundary between the surface 26a and the back surface 26b). By forming the toe part 26 in this way, when the toe part 26 is fixed in contact with the outer surface of the last body 10, the outer surface of the last body 10 and the surface 26a of the toe part 26 can be made smooth (without creating a step) and continuous.

[0073] The material of the toe part 26 can be the same as the material of the two side parts 21 and 22 in Embodiment 1. Furthermore, the fastening means for the toe part 26 can also be the same as the fastening means in Embodiment 1.

[0074] The other components are configured similarly to the two side parts 21 and 22 of Embodiment 1. Then, as the additional part 20 necessary for creating a last L suitable for the customer's foot shape, the additional part 20 (toe part 26) of Embodiment 4 is selected, and when the additional part 20 is fixed to the last body 10 in the same manner as in Embodiment 1, as shown in Figure 7, a last L suitable for the foot shape of a customer that is larger in size (foot length) than the last body 10 corresponding to a standard foot shape is created. For example, when the last body 10 is created at 1 cm intervals, if the toe part 26 is used to make the size 0.5 cm larger than the last body 10 corresponding to a standard foot shape, then one 25 cm last body 10 can be used to create two sizes of last L: a last L of 25 cm and a last L of 25.5 cm. The same effects as in Embodiment 1 can be achieved with a last L configured in this way.

[0075] Embodiment 5 of the Invention As shown in Figures 9 and 10, the wrest L of Embodiment 5 differs from that of Embodiment 1 in both the configuration of the wrest body 10 and the configuration of the additional parts 20.

[0076] Specifically, in Embodiment 5, the last body 10 is a division of the last body 10 of Embodiment 1 into two parts, an inner and an outer part, comprising a first member 11 on the outer arch side and a second member 12 on the inner arch side. The first and second members 11 and 12 each have outer surfaces 11a and 12a in the shape of a standard foot, which form the outer surface of the last L, and inner surfaces 11b and 12b consisting of vertical surfaces extending in the front-to-back direction.

[0077] In Embodiment 5, the additional part 20 is configured to change the width of the last L from the standard foot shape by being fixed to the last body 10. Specifically, as shown in Figures 9 and 10, in Embodiment 5, the additional part 20 consists of a single foot shape plate 27.

[0078] The foot-shaped plate 27 is formed to have the same shape (foot shape) as the inner surfaces 11b and 12b of the first and second members 11 and 12. The foot-shaped plate 27 has a first surface 27a on the outer side that abuts against the inner surface 11b of the first member 11, and a second surface 27b on the inner side that abuts against the inner surface 12b of the second member 12. In Embodiment 5, the foot-shaped plate 27 is configured to have a certain thickness t.

[0079] The foot-shaped plate 27 is fixed to the first and second members 11 and 12 of the last body 10 by being sandwiched between the inner surfaces 11b and 12b of the first and second members 11 and 12, thereby changing the outer shape of the last L to a shape wider than that of a standard foot shape.

[0080] The material for the foot-shaped plate 27 can be a relatively hard material, similar to the material for the last body 10. For example, it can be a relatively hard resin such as polyamide (PA), polyethylene (PE), or polyurethane (PU), a metal such as aluminum (AL), or wood. The material for the last body 10 is not limited to the above, but it is preferable to use the same material as the last body 10.

[0081] As described above, the foot-shaped plate 27 is fixed in a state where it is sandwiched between the inner surfaces 11b and 12b of the first and second members 11 and 12 of the last body 10. The foot-shaped plate 27 is fixed with its first surface 27a in contact with the inner surface 11b of the first member 11 and its second surface 27b in contact with the inner surface 12b of the second member 12. In this embodiment 5, the foot-shaped plate 27 is fixed to the first and second members 11 and 12 by metal bolts (not shown). Specifically, the foot-shaped plate 27, the first member 11, and the second member 12 each have two through holes h1 and h2 formed therein for inserting metal bolts in the inward and outward directions.

[0082] Furthermore, the means for fixing the additional part 20 (foot-shaped plate 27) to the last body 10 is not limited to metal bolts; any means that allows the additional part 20 to be attached to and detached from the last body 10 may be used. In addition to metal bolts, other means such as adhesive tape, hook-and-loop fasteners, or resin bolts can be used to fix the additional part 20 to the last body 10.

[0083] - How to create a last for custom-ordered shoes - In Embodiment 5, first, the customer's foot shape is measured and determined, and then the last body 10, which is the closest size to the determined foot shape, and the additional parts 20 necessary for creating the last L with an outer surface shape suitable for the determined foot shape are selected and prepared.

[0084] For example, if a customer's foot shape is 25cm in size, with a width and girth of C, a heel width larger than the standard foot shape, and standard arch and instep height, then a last body 10 consisting of first and second members 11 and 12, having an outer shape corresponding to a standard foot shape of size 25cm, and a foot shape plate 27 fixed to the last body 10, which increases the width of the last L from the front to the rear end compared to the standard foot shape, thereby making the width and girth of the last L C and increasing the heel width compared to the standard foot shape, are selected as additional parts 20.

[0085] After selecting the last body 10 and the additional parts 20, attach the additional parts 20 (foot-shaped plate 27) to the last body 10.

[0086] Specifically, the foot-shaped plate 27 is placed between the first and second members 11 and 12 of the last body 10, with the first surface 27a in contact with the inner surface 11b of the first member 11 and the second surface 27b in contact with the inner surface 12b of the second member 12. In this state, metal bolts are inserted through two through holes h1 and h2 that penetrate the first member 11, the foot-shaped plate 27, and the second member 12 in an inward-outward direction, and tightened with bolts or the like. As a result, the foot-shaped plate 27 is fixed to the first and second members 11 and 12 while sandwiched between them.

[0087] Based on the above, a last L is created with a size of 25cm, a width and girth of C, a heel width larger than the standard foot shape, and standard arch and instep height.

[0088] Furthermore, in the above manufacturing method, by changing the selected additional part 20, for example, by using foot mold plates 27 of different thicknesses or by using multiple foot mold plates 27, lasts L of the same size but with different external shapes (width, girth, and heel width) can be produced. Also, in the above manufacturing method, by changing the size of the selected last body 10, lasts L of different sizes can be produced.

[0089] As described above, in Embodiment 5, the last body 10 is composed of two members 11 and 12, a first member 11 on the inner side and a second member 12 on the outer side. The additional part 20 is fixed in a state where it is sandwiched between the two members 11 and 12 of the last body 10, thereby changing the outer shape of the last L to a shape that is wider than the standard foot shape from the front to the rear. With such an additional part 20, the outer shape of the last L can be easily changed to a shape that is wider than the standard foot shape. Furthermore, since the last body 10 is composed of two members 11 and 12, the additional part 20 can be easily incorporated into the last body 10, making it easy to change the outer shape of the last L.

[0090] Embodiment 6 of the Invention As shown in Figures 11 and 12, the last L of Embodiment 6 is a modified version of the additional part 20 of the last L of Embodiment 5. Specifically, the additional part 20 of Embodiment 6 is fixed to the last body 10, thereby changing not only the width of the last L but also the instep height from the standard foot shape.

[0091] As shown in Figures 11 and 12, in Embodiment 6, the additional part 20 consists of a foot-shaped plate 27 and a bump part 28. The bump part 28 is formed similarly to the bump part 25 of Embodiment 3. Specifically, the bump part 28 has a surface 28a which is a curved surface that extends widely in the front-rear and width directions along the upper part of the last body 10 and constitutes a part of the outer surface of the last L, and a back surface 28b which is formed in a shape that conforms to the upper part of the outer surface of the last body 10. The back surface 28b becomes a contact surface that abuts against the outer surface of the last body 10 at the fixing position when the bump part 25 is fixed to the last body 10. As shown in Figure 12, in Embodiment 6, the bump part 28 is fixed to the foot-shaped plate 27.

[0092] In Embodiment 6, the bump part 28 is fixed to the upper part of the last body 10, thereby making the height of the upper part of the last L higher than that of a standard foot shape, and is formed so that its thickness decreases towards the outer edge (the boundary between the surface 28a and the back surface 28b). By forming the bump part 28 in this way, when the bump part 28 is fixed in contact with the outer surface of the last body 10, the outer surface of the last body 10 and the surface 28a of the bump part 28 can be made smooth and continuous (without creating a step).

[0093] The material of the bump part 28 can be the same as the material of the bump part 25 in Embodiment 3. On the other hand, in Embodiment 6, the bump part 28 is fixed to the foot-shaped plate 27. The bump part 28 and the foot-shaped plate 27 may be fixed after molding, or if they are made of resin material (the foot-shaped plate 27 is made of a relatively high-hardness resin, and the bump part 28 is made of a soft resin), they may be molded integrally during resin molding.

[0094] The other components are configured in the same manner as in Embodiment 5.

[0095] - How to create a last for custom-ordered shoes - In Embodiment 6, first, the customer's foot shape is measured and determined, and then the last body 10, which is the closest size to the determined foot shape, and the additional parts 20 necessary for creating the last L with an outer surface shape suitable for the determined foot shape are selected and prepared.

[0096] For example, if a customer's foot shape is 25cm in size, with a width and girth of C, a heel width greater than the standard foot shape, a standard arch height, and a higher instep height than the standard foot shape, then a last body 10 having an outer shape corresponding to a standard foot shape of size 25cm and consisting of first and second members 11 and 12, and additional parts 20 are selected, which are fixed to the last body 10 to increase the width and instep height of the last L from the front to the rear end, thereby making the width and girth C, the heel width greater than the standard foot shape, and the instep height of the last L greater than the standard foot shape.

[0097] After selecting the last body 10 and the additional parts 20, the additional parts 20 (foot-shaped plate 27 and bump parts 28) are fixed to the last body 10.

[0098] Specifically, the foot-shaped plate 27 is placed between the first and second members 11 and 12 of the last body 10, with the first surface 27a in contact with the inner surface 11b of the first member 11 and the second surface 27b in contact with the inner surface 12b of the second member 12. In this state, metal bolts are inserted through two through holes h1 and h2 provided in the first member 11, foot-shaped plate 27, and second member 12 so as to penetrate in the inward and outward directions, and tightened with bolts or the like. As a result, the foot-shaped plate 27 is fixed to the first and second members 11 and 12 while being sandwiched between them, and the bump part 28 is also positioned at a predetermined fixing position (upper part) on the outer surface of the last body 10. In Embodiment 6, the bump part 28 is fixed to the last body 10 by wrapping adhesive tape around the bump part 28, which is positioned at a predetermined fixing position on the outer surface of the last body 10.

[0099] Based on the above, a last L is created with a size of 25cm, a width and girth of C, a heel width larger than the standard foot shape, a standard arch height, and an instep height higher than the standard foot shape.

[0100] Furthermore, in Embodiment 6, by changing the additional part 20 selected in the above manufacturing method, for example, by changing the thickness of at least one of the foot shape plate 27 and the bump part 28, lasts L of the same size but with different external shapes (width, girth, heel width, and instep height) can be manufactured. Also, by changing the size of the last body 10 selected in the above manufacturing method, lasts L of different sizes can be manufactured.

[0101] As described above, Embodiment 6 can achieve the same effects as Embodiment 5, as well as the same effects as Embodiment 3.

[0102] Other embodiments In Embodiment 1, two side parts 21 and 22 were used as additional parts 20 to change the width of the last L and the height of the arch; in Embodiment 2, two arch parts 23 and 24 were used as additional parts 20 to change the height of the arch of the last L; in Embodiment 3, a bump part 25 was used as an additional part 20 to change the instep height of the last L; in Embodiment 4, a toe part 26 was used as an additional part 20 to change the size (foot length) of the last L; in Embodiment 5, a foot-shaped plate 27 was used as an additional part 20 to change the width of the last L; and in Embodiment 6, a foot-shaped plate 27 and a bump part 28 were used as additional parts 20 to change the width and instep height of the last L.

[0103] However, the additional part 20 only needs to differ from the standard foot shape in at least one of the size, width, instep height, and arch height of the last L, and is not limited to those of embodiments 1 to 6.

[0104] For example, the two side parts 21 and 22 of Embodiment 1 may be made shorter in the front-to-back direction, and an additional part 20 may be created that only changes the width of the last L.

[0105] Furthermore, the two side parts 21, 22 of Embodiment 1 or the two arch parts 23, 24 of Embodiment 2 may be combined with at least one of the bump part 25 of Embodiment 3 and the toe part 26 of Embodiment 4 to form an additional part 20.

[0106] Furthermore, the last body 10 may be made into a segmented structure and combined with the foot-shaped plate 27 of Embodiment 5 and the two side parts 21, 22 of Embodiment 1 or the two arch parts 23, 24 of Embodiment 2 to form an additional part 20. Similarly, the last body 10 may be made into a segmented structure and combined with the foot-shaped plate 27 of Embodiment 5 and the toe part 26 of Embodiment 4 to form an additional part 20.

[0107] Furthermore, it is also possible to combine the two side parts 21, 22 of Embodiment 1 or the two arch parts 23, 24 of Embodiment 2 with at least one of the bump part 25 of Embodiment 3 and the toe part 26 of Embodiment 4, and to further divide the last body 10 into a segmented structure and combine it with the foot-shaped plate 27 of Embodiment 5 to form an additional part 20.

[0108] As described above, by using various parts 21-28 in combination as additional parts 20, and by changing the combination, it is possible to create a wide variety of last shapes L using a single last body 10. Therefore, it is possible to easily and inexpensively provide lasts that meet each customer's foot shape and requirements.

[0109] Furthermore, in embodiments 1 to 4 described above, the back surfaces 21b to 26b of the additional parts 20 (side parts 21, 22, arch parts 23, 24, bump part 25, and toe part 26) were formed to be the same shape as a part of the outer surface of the last body 10 that abuts against them at a predetermined fixed position.

[0110] However, as described above, the back surfaces 21b to 26b of the additional part 20 do not have to be the same shape as a part of the outer surface of the last body 10 that abuts in a predetermined fixed position.

[0111] Since the additional part 20 is made of soft resin, for example, even if an additional part 20 formed to the same shape as a part of the outer surface of a 25cm size last body 10 is used as an additional part 20 for a 26cm size last body 10, the back surfaces 21b to 26b can be brought into contact with the outer surface of the last body 10 by bending the additional part 20. With this configuration, the additional part 20 can be used interchangeably between different sizes, thus reducing the number of additional parts 20. Therefore, not only the last body 10 but also the effort, cost, and storage space required for manufacturing the additional parts 20 can be reduced.

[0112] Furthermore, in embodiments 5 and 6 described above, the foot-shaped plate 27 was configured to have a constant thickness t, but the thickness of the foot-shaped plate 27 may vary in the front-to-back direction. For example, the thickness of the foot-shaped plate 27 may uniformly decrease from the front end to the rear end. Note that the first surface 27a and the second surface 27b of the foot-shaped plate 27 and the inner surfaces 11b and 12b of the first and second members 11 and 12 of the last body 10 only need to be configured to be able to come into contact with each other.

[0113] Furthermore, embodiments 1 to 6 described above explained an example in which a last body 10 is manufactured by selecting the foot shape with the smallest size, width, and girth (for example, foot shape A for 25 cm) from among various foot shapes (various foot shapes in which at least one of the size (foot length), width (foot width), and girth (foot circumference) differs) that can be assumed for each shoe size (for example, every 1 cm) and using this as the standard foot shape. As described above, it is preferable to select the foot shape with the smallest size, width, and girth as the standard foot shape, but it is not limited to this. Any relatively small foot shape from among the various foot shapes assumed for each shoe size that can be modified by fixing the additional parts 20 can be used as the standard foot shape.

[0114] Specifically, as in Embodiments 1 to 6, if 20 types of foot shapes (2 different sizes and 10 different widths and girths) are assumed for a size of 25 cm, for example, a foot shape with width and girth of B, C, D, E, 2E, 3E, 4E, or F for a size of 25 cm may be designated as the standard foot shape. Alternatively, multiple types of foot shapes may be selected from the various foot shapes assumed for each size to be designated as standard foot shapes, such as designating the smallest size, width, and girth (foot shape A for 25 cm) as standard foot shape 1, and a foot shape with the smallest size and medium width and girth (for example, a foot shape with width 2E for 25 cm) as standard foot shape 2.

[0115] Furthermore, the types of foot shapes that can be considered as different sizes are not limited to two, but can be three or more. For example, if four different sizes are considered for a size 25cm—25cm, 25.25cm, 25.5cm, and 25.75cm—and the above 10 types are considered as differences in width and girth, then from the 40 types of foot shapes, a foot shape that is not only of medium width and girth but also of medium size (in the above case, a foot shape of 25.5cm with a 2E width) can be designated as the standard foot shape. Similarly, the types of foot shapes that can be considered as differences in width and girth are not limited to 10. [Industrial applicability]

[0116] As described above, the present invention is useful for lasts used in the manufacture of shoes. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0117] L Last 10 Last Main Unit 11. First Member 12 Second Member 20 additional parts 21. Outer side armor parts (additional parts) 21b Back side (contact side) 22. Inner side part (additional part) 22b Back side (contact side) 23 Outer arch parts (additional parts) 23b Back side (contact side) 24. Medial arch part (additional part) 24b Back side (contact side) 25. Bump parts (additional parts) 25b Back side (contact side) 26 Toe parts (additional parts) 26b Back side (contact side) 27 Footprint Plate (Additional Part) 28. Bump parts (additional parts) 28b Back side (contact side)

Claims

1. A last used for molding the upper of a shoe, A last body having an external shape corresponding to a predetermined standard foot shape, The system includes an additional part that, when fixed to the main body of the last, changes the outer shape of the last to a shape different from the standard foot shape. A distinctive feature of the last.

2. In the last described in claim 1, The above-mentioned additional part has a contact surface that conforms to the outer surface of the last body, and is configured to change the outer shape of the last to a shape different from the standard foot shape by fixing the part to the last body with the contact surface in contact with the outer surface of the last body. A distinctive feature of the last.

3. In the last according to claim 2, The above additional parts are configured to make at least one of the last's size, width, instep height, and arch height different from the standard foot shape. A distinctive feature of the last.

4. In the last according to claim 2, The above additional parts are formed so that their thickness decreases towards the outer edge. A distinctive feature of the last.

5. In the last according to any one of claims 2 to 4, The above additional parts are molded using a 3D printer. A distinctive feature of the last.

6. In the last described in claim 1, The last body described above is composed of a first member on the inner side and a second member on the outer side. The above-mentioned additional part is fixed to the first and second members while being sandwiched between them, thereby changing the outer shape of the last to a shape wider than the standard foot shape. A distinctive feature of the last.

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