Boot Insole Cushioning Structure for Shock Absorption
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing comfort systems in boots, such as those using vertically aligned foamed plastic pads, provide limited cushioning and are hindered by the rigidity of the rigid inner sole board, leading to discomfort and inadequate shock absorption.
Innovation Solution
A comfort system featuring two pairs of vertically aligned foamed polyurethane pads, one secured to the insole liner backing board and the other to the midsole, with apertures allowing free passage, combined with a midsole rim for shock absorption and a steel toe insert for protection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a rigid inner sole board is used to withstand the pressure of Goodyear welt stitching, then the structural strength and durability of the boot is improved, but the comfort and shock absorption capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The rigid inner sole board is segmented by introducing apertures (openings) that allow the insertion of resilient cushioning pads. This divides the solid rigid structure into sections that can accommodate flexible cushioning elements, enabling both structural integrity and comfort.
Solution Approach 2:
The system combines rigid inner sole board material with resilient cushioning pad material to create a composite structure. The rigid board provides structural strength for stitching, while the resilient pads provide comfort and shock absorption, resolving the contradiction between strength and comfort.
2Ease of operation
If cushioning pads are added to improve comfort, then the shock absorption capability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient cushioning pads are nested within the apertures of the rigid inner sole board. This nesting arrangement allows the cushioning pads to be integrated into the existing sole board structure without adding significant external complexity, as the pads fit within the predefined openings.
Solution Approach 2:
The apertures are pre-formed in the rigid inner sole board during manufacturing, and the resilient cushioning pads are pre-positioned within these apertures before the Goodyear welt stitching process. This preliminary arrangement simplifies the overall assembly process and reduces complexity by establishing the comfort system structure in advance.
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
Enhances boot comfort by providing improved cushioning and shock absorption without compromising durability, while maintaining a compact design and protecting the toes.
Implementation Method 1
vertically aligned foamed polyurethane pads, one secured to an insole liner backing board and the other to the midsole
Data Source
AI summary
A comfort system for Cowboy and work boots, including an insole chassis, an insole chassis backing board, and cushioning pads for absorbing and attenuating shocks encountered by a wearer of the boots. Cushioning pads are secured to a surface of the insole chassis backing board, and apertures in the insole chassis allow the cushions to pass through. Additional cushioning pads are retained in recesses in the midsole. Pads on insole chassis backing board and midsole are vertically aligned. A steel toe inset is utilized in conjunction with the comfort system for work boots. A rim may depend below the midsole to receive a foamed plastic pad.