Bistable Bendable Shoe Structure for Easy Entry and Secure Fit
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Solution Overview
Problem
The process of putting on and taking off conventional shoes is laborious and time-consuming, especially for individuals with limited mobility or dexterity.
Innovation Solution
A bendable shoe design featuring a bistable bending module with a spring or elastic material that allows the shoe to transition between a bent position for easy entry and an unbent position for secure wear, utilizing a notch and elastic materials for flexibility and stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If laces are loosened to widen the shoe opening for easy entry, then ease of operation is improved, but the shoe cannot provide secure fit during wear
Solution Approach 1:
The shoe incorporates a dynamic bending module that can switch between two stable states: a bent state for easy entry and an unbent state for secure wear. The module uses a spring mechanism with buckling elements that can be triggered to change state, allowing the shoe to adapt its structure based on operational needs rather than requiring manual lace adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The bending module changes the geometric parameters of the shoe structure by transitioning between bent and unbent configurations. When bent, the module widens the shoe opening; when unbent, it maintains the normal fitted shape. This parameter change is achieved through controlled buckling of spring elements that can be triggered by external force or mechanism.
2Reliability
If laces are tightened to secure the shoe fit, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The bending module automatically maintains the shoe in the unbent, fitted state during wear without requiring continuous manual adjustment. The spring mechanism self-locks in the stable unbent configuration, providing secure fit passively. To remove the shoe, the user simply needs to trigger the buckling mechanism once, after which the shoe can be easily removed without further manipulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The shoe transitions from a static structure requiring manual lace tightening to a dynamic structure that automatically maintains secure fit through the bistable bending module. The module remains in the unbent stable state during wear, and can be quickly switched to the bent state for removal, eliminating the need for continuous manual adjustment.
3Ease of operation
If the shoe opening is widened for foot insertion, then ease of operation is improved, but structural integrity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The shoe structure is segmented into the upper part, sole structure, and the bending module. The bending module acts as a separate functional unit that can be integrated into the sole or upper structure. This segmentation allows the module to be optimized for bending motion while the rest of the shoe maintains its structural integrity for strength and durability.
Solution Approach 2:
The bending module temporarily changes the geometric parameters of the shoe opening by bending, but returns to its original configuration after use. This reversible parameter change allows the shoe to widen for entry without permanent deformation, maintaining structural integrity while providing ease of operation.
4Ease of operation
If a bistable bending module is integrated into the sole structure, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bending module utilizes flexible spring elements and buckling mechanisms that can be integrated into the sole or upper structure of the shoe. These flexible components allow the module to bend and return to its original shape, providing the bistable functionality without requiring complex rigid mechanical structures. The spring-based design simplifies the overall complexity while maintaining the desired operational ease.
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
Enables easy and comfortable donning and doffing of shoes by widening the opening in the bent position and securing a snug fit in the unbent position, enhancing user convenience.
Implementation Method 1
a bistable bending module comprising a spring or any other compressible/elastic material
Implementation Method 2
The bending element is a spring or compressible/elastic material and/or a flexible hinge
Data Source
AI summary
A shoe, in particular casual shoe and/or a sneaker for a foot, comprising at least one sole structure, an upper structure, and at least one bending module, wherein the bending module is arranged at least partially within the sole structure, and wherein the sole structure and the bending module are bendable between at least one unbent position and at least one bent position.