Composite Footwear Sole Structure for Cushioning, Traction, and Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sole structures for footwear lack a composite design that effectively combines cushioning, support, and traction, while also providing zonal abrasion resistance and aerodynamic efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A composite sole structure comprising a cushioning element with a resilient polymeric material, bladders, and a plate, along with a segmented outsole for enhanced cushioning, support, and traction, and incorporating dimples for aerodynamics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional sole structure with midsole and outsole is used, then basic cushioning and traction are provided, but the structure lacks composite design effectiveness for combining cushioning, support, and traction simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functional elements (cushioning element with fluid-filled chambers, support plate, outsole with traction elements) into a unified composite sole structure where components work synergistically. The cushioning element is integrated with the support plate and outsole to provide simultaneous cushioning, support, and traction functions that conventional separate structures cannot achieve effectively.
Solution Approach 2:
The sole structure employs composite material construction with the cushioning element made from resilient polymeric material, the support plate providing structural integrity, and the outsole incorporating abrasion-resistant materials. This composite approach allows each material to contribute its specific properties (cushioning, support, traction) to create a structure that exceeds the sum of its parts.
2Strength
If a single-layer sole structure is used, then manufacturing is simple, but zonal abrasion resistance and targeted cushioning are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The sole structure is segmented into distinct functional zones: the cushioning element with multiple fluid-filled chambers for zonal cushioning, the support plate for structural support, and the outsole with specific traction elements. This segmentation allows each zone to be optimized for its specific function (abrasion resistance, cushioning, traction) while maintaining a manufacturable multi-component structure.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the sole structure have different material properties and functions tailored to local requirements. The outsole has enhanced abrasion resistance in high-wear zones, the cushioning element provides varying levels of cushioning in different chambers, and the support plate offers targeted structural support. This local optimization achieves superior zonal abrasion resistance and cushioning without excessive manufacturing complexity.
3Speed
If conventional sole structures are used, then basic functionality is provided, but aerodynamic efficiency is not optimized
Solution Approach 1:
The cushioning element incorporates curved surfaces and aerodynamic contours that reduce drag and improve airflow around the footwear. The rounded chambers and streamlined shape of the cushioning element create smoother airflow patterns compared to conventional flat or angular sole structures, enhancing aerodynamic efficiency without significantly increasing structural complexity.
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 composite sole structure provides improved cushioning, support, traction, and aerodynamics, while maintaining durability and stability, enhancing the overall performance of footwear.
Implementation Method 1
The midsole may include a pressurized fluid-filled chamber that compresses resiliently under an applied load to cushion the foot by attenuating ground-reaction forces
Implementation Method 2
A composite sole structure comprising a cushioning element with a resilient polymeric material, bladders, and a plate
Data Source
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AI summary
A sole structure for an article of footwear includes an upper cushion extending from a first end to a second end, a lower cushion having a first segment attached to the upper cushion adjacent to the first end and including a tray extending towards the second end of the upper cushion, and at least one bladder disposed between the tray of the lower cushion and the upper cushion.