Adaptive Shoe Sole Structure with Dynamic Deformation Space
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing shoe sole structure fails to provide adequate cushioning, particularly at the moment of ground contact, as the deformation element deforms simultaneously regardless of the external force magnitude, limiting its ability to absorb impact effectively.
Innovation Solution
A shoe sole structure with a support system comprising an upper plate, a lower plate, and a buffer member, where the buffer member is elastically deformable and has a lower Young's modulus than the plates, featuring deformation spaces that change state from open to closed based on the external force, allowing for varying degrees of cushioning depending on the force applied.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the buffer member is fixed between the upper and lower plates, then the structure is simple, but the cushioning degree cannot be adjusted based on external force magnitude
Solution Approach 1:
The deformation space is designed to change state dynamically between open and closed based on the magnitude of external force. When external force is small, the deformation space remains open allowing bulge deformation. When external force exceeds a threshold, the deformation space closes, transforming the buffer member from a simple fixed structure to an adaptive system that responds to force magnitude.
Solution Approach 2:
The physical state of the deformation space changes from open to closed based on external force parameters. This parameter change allows the buffer member to transition between different deformation modes, enabling adjustable cushioning degree without requiring multiple components or complex mechanisms.
2Reliability
If the tubular portion and buffer member deform simultaneously, then the structure is simple, but the cushioning effectiveness is insufficient for strong impacts
Solution Approach 1:
The deformation space is pre-designed with specific geometric features (bulge configuration) that enable sequential deformation. The open state of the deformation space allows the bulge to deform first, absorbing initial impact energy before the deformation space closes and engages the buffer member for additional cushioning, creating a staged deformation sequence.
Solution Approach 2:
The deformation process is segmented into distinct stages: first the bulge deforms within the open deformation space, then the deformation space closes, and finally the buffer member deforms. This segmentation of the deformation process allows each component to contribute to cushioning at appropriate moments, improving overall effectiveness.
3Reliability
If the deformation space is always closed, then the buffer member provides consistent support, but the initial impact cushioning is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The deformation space transitions from an open state during initial contact to a closed state under sustained load. This dynamic behavior allows the system to provide maximum deformation freedom during impact absorption while maintaining structural support during the loading phase, optimizing both cushioning effectiveness and support reliability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The sole structure provides a high degree of cushioning at initial contact and adjusts cushioning as the external force changes, effectively managing impact absorption and providing improved comfort and support.
Implementation Method 1
a buffer member which is elastically deformable, provided between the upper plate and the lower plate
Implementation Method 2
the bulge is allowed to elastically deform toward the deformation space due to the deformation space
Data Source
AI summary
A support is configured such that a bulge is allowed to deform toward a deformation space due to the deformation space when the deformation space is in an open state, and that the bulge is allowed to deform upward and a buffer member is compressively deformed when the deformation space is in a closed state.