Adjustable Orthotic With Removable Inserts For Custom Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional footwear inserts, such as orthotics, are not customizable to changing customer needs and preferences, leading to the need for frequent replacements and increased costs due to their fixed support structures and lack of adjustability.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable orthotic system that includes a shell layer with removable inserts, allowing users to customize support levels by interchanging inserts with varying hardness and stiffness, which can be selected based on individual foot types and activities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If conventional orthotics are made with fixed support structures, then manufacturing is simplified, but adaptability to different customer needs deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The orthotic is divided into a base layer and multiple removable insert layers. Each insert can be independently manufactured with different support characteristics, allowing the base to remain simple while the inserts provide customization. This segmentation enables separate optimization of manufacturing simplicity and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The base orthotic structure is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate multiple different inserts. This multi-functional design allows a single base unit to serve various support needs by simply changing the insert, resolving the contradiction between manufacturing simplicity and adaptability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If custom orthotics are made for each customer need, then adaptability improves, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
A single universal base orthotic can be paired with multiple inserts to address different custom needs. This eliminates the requirement for multiple separate custom orthotics, reducing device complexity while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The orthotic system transitions from a static, fixed design to a dynamic, reconfigurable system. The removable inserts allow the support characteristics to be changed based on needs, achieving custom fit without requiring multiple complete orthotic devices.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple orthotics are purchased to satisfy different preferences, then adaptability improves, but loss of substance and storage requirements worsen
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the orthotic into a reusable base and interchangeable inserts, the system eliminates waste associated with discarding entire orthotics. Only the specific insert needs to be changed, reducing material consumption and storage requirements while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The design enables recovery and reuse of the base orthotic structure. Instead of discarding entire orthotics when needs change, the base is retained and reused with different inserts, reducing overall material consumption and storage needs.
Data Source
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AI summary
An example orthotic is described which may include a cushioning first layer and a shell layer. The shell layer may be configured to extend longitudinally from at least the talus-navicular joint to the medial cuneiform-first metatarsal joint and laterally under at least the medial cuneiform bone when the orthotic is in use. The shell layer may be configured to receive a removable insert that alters an amount of arch support provided by the orthotic. A set of inserts may be provided to allow the example orthotic to be customized based on user support preferences.