Collapsible Heel Counter Structure for Easy Shoe Entry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing shoe entry and exit mechanisms compromise shoe aesthetics, require additional components like heel counters or heel cups, and lack durability while ensuring easy entry and exit.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising an upper and lower rib integrated into the heel collar and heel cup of a shoe, connected by a spring system of ribs forming a compressible lattice structure, allowing easy compression and return to the closed position for secure foot hold.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a deformable upper section of the heel counter is used to allow compression for entry, then ease of entry and exit is improved, but the structural integrity and durability of the shoe is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The heel counter is divided into multiple ribs (first rib, second rib, third rib, fourth rib) connected by connecting elements. This segmentation allows localized deformation during entry while maintaining overall structural integrity through the distributed rib framework.
Solution Approach 2:
The heel counter transitions from a static rigid structure to a dynamic collapsible structure. The ribs and connecting elements are designed to deform elastically during entry and return to their original position, providing temporary compliance without sacrificing long-term durability.
2Ease of operation
If a grid structure is integrated into the shoe for quick-release fastening, then ease of operation is improved, but the aesthetic appearance of the shoe is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The grid structure is localized to the functional heel counter region rather than being applied globally to the shoe. This confines the visual impact to a specific area while preserving the overall aesthetic of the shoe upper and other visible portions.
Solution Approach 2:
The grid structure serves multiple functions: it provides the quick-release fastening mechanism, enables the collapsible heel counter functionality, and maintains structural support. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate aesthetic-compromising components.
3Ease of operation
If the heel cup is made compressible to facilitate entry, then ease of entry and exit is improved, but the secure hold of the foot during movement is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The heel cup employs dynamic elasticity through its rib-and-connecting-element structure. During entry, the structure compresses to accommodate the foot, then automatically rebounds to its rigid original position to provide secure foot hold during movement, achieving both compliance and support.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic connecting elements are pre-designed to compress and rebound, providing beforehand cushioning that absorbs entry forces and then restores the rigid structure for secure foot containment during subsequent movement.
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
Ensures easy shoe entry and exit without affecting aesthetics, provides secure foot hold during movement, and adapts to shoe shape, with high durability using resilient materials like TPU.
Implementation Method 1
The spring system is composed of a plurality of ribs and the plurality of ribs define a plurality of openings. The spring system is preferably a compressible lattice structure.
Implementation Method 2
the upper bridge and the lower bridge are connected to each other via a spring system
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
The invention relates to a device and a shoe for facilitating entry and exit, wherein the device comprises an upper shank designed to be integrated into a heel collar of the shoe, and a lower shank designed to be integrated into a heel cup of the shoe, the upper shank and the lower shank being connected to each other via a spring system. The spring system is composed of a plurality of ribs, the plurality of ribs defining a plurality of openings.