Crossed Strap Footwear Securing System for Pressure Distribution
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional footwear securing systems, such as lacing systems, often fail to provide a secure and comfortable fit, especially for athletic shoes, as they can cause pressure on the ankle and do not allow for adequate movement of the foot during activities.
Innovation Solution
The use of a securing system with medial and lateral strap tensioning components and strap portions that cross each other at multiple locations, secured by hook-and-loop fasteners, which eliminates the need for conventional laces and allows for a more comfortable and secure fit by distributing pressure and allowing for natural foot movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional lacing systems are used, then the footwear can be secured to the foot, but pressure is concentrated on the ankle and foot, reducing comfort and natural movement
Solution Approach 1:
The securing system is divided into multiple independent strap portions (first strap portion, second strap portion, third strap portion) that can be adjusted and secured independently at different locations on the foot. This segmentation distributes the securing function across multiple points rather than concentrating it at the ankle, thereby maintaining reliability while reducing pressure concentration.
Solution Approach 2:
The strap portions are configured to cross each other at multiple locations, creating a multi-dimensional securing pattern across the foot. This dimensional distribution of strap crossings spreads the pressure points across a larger area of the foot, transforming the concentrated pressure problem into a distributed pressure system that maintains security while improving comfort.
2Device complexity
If conventional lacing systems are used, then the footwear structure is simple, but the fit is not secure and comfortable for athletic activities
Solution Approach 1:
The securing system is divided into multiple independent strap portions with separate tensioning components and fastening mechanisms. This segmentation allows each strap to be optimized for its specific location and function, improving the overall securing reliability while maintaining a modular structure that is relatively simple to manufacture and adjust.
Solution Approach 2:
The strap portions are configured to allow for dynamic adjustment and movement, with each strap capable of independent tensioning and positioning. This dynamic configuration enables the footwear to adapt to different foot shapes and movement patterns, significantly improving the securing fit for athletic activities while adding only minimal complexity to the overall system.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If multiple strap portions crossing at multiple locations are used, then pressure is distributed and comfort is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses multiple independent strap portions that can be manufactured as separate components and assembled in a modular fashion. This segmentation allows for standardized production of each strap module, which can then be combined to create the multi-point pressure distribution system, thereby managing complexity through modularity while achieving improved pressure distribution.
Solution Approach 2:
Each strap portion is designed with universal tensioning components and fastening mechanisms that can be used across different strap locations. This multi-functionality allows the same basic component design to be replicated multiple times, reducing the overall complexity by using standardized parts rather than custom components for each strap, while still achieving distributed pressure relief.
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
This solution provides a secure and comfortable fit by distributing pressure and allowing for natural foot movement, enhancing the overall performance and comfort of athletic footwear.
Implementation Method 1
secured by hook-and-loop fasteners
Implementation Method 2
secured by hook-and-loop fasteners
Data Source
AI summary
Articles of footwear or other foot-receiving devices include an upper/foot-covering member having medial and lateral strap tensioning components located on opposite sides of the ankle area. A securing system is provided that includes: (i) a first strap portion extending across the instep area, engaging the lateral strap tensioning component, and extending in front of the foot-insertion opening to the medial ankle side (where it may be secured), and (ii) a second strap portion extending across the instep area, engaging the medial strap tensioning component, and extending in front of the foot-insertion opening and to the lateral ankle side (where it may be secured). The first and second strap portions cross one another at two separated crossing locations.