Cycling Shoe Wedge Alignment for Kinetic Chain Integrity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Clipless pedal systems do not provide a universal solution for all cyclists, leading to biomechanical malalignments that compromise cycling performance and increase the risk of overuse injuries due to inefficient kinetic chain alignment.
Innovation Solution
Compensating for biomechanical malalignments in cyclists' feet using wedges, either inside the shoe or between the cleat and sole, and employing neuromuscular feedback tests to determine optimal alignment and adjust for improved neuromuscular efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If clipless pedal systems are used to secure the cyclist's shoe to the pedal, then power application and foot security are improved, but biomechanical malalignments and risk of overuse injuries increase due to lack of adaptability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces adjustable wedge inserts that can be dynamically positioned within the cycling shoe to alter foot alignment. These wedges allow the system to adapt to individual biomechanical variations while maintaining the secure connection between shoe and pedal, resolving the contradiction between fixed security and adaptive versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies localized correction by inserting wedges at specific positions within the shoe (e.g., under the forefoot or heel) to address specific alignment issues. This local intervention allows customization of foot positioning without affecting the overall pedal-shoe connection mechanism, enabling adaptation to individual biomechanics while preserving secure attachment.
2Device complexity
If standard cleat positioning is used in clipless pedals, then device simplicity is maintained, but kinetic chain alignment and neuromuscular efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the foot positioning system by introducing separate wedge inserts that can be independently adjusted within the shoe. This segmentation allows fine-tuning of foot alignment without complicating the overall cleat-pedal interface, maintaining relative simplicity while improving kinetic chain alignment through modular adjustment components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces wedge inserts as intermediary elements between the shoe insole and the cleat. These intermediaries modify foot positioning and alignment without directly altering the cleat-pedal connection mechanism, thereby improving kinetic chain alignment while preserving the simplicity of the standard cleat positioning system.
3Adaptability or versatility
If universal clipless pedal systems are applied to all cyclists, then system compatibility is improved, but individual biomechanical needs are not met leading to performance limitations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables dynamic adaptation within the universal system by allowing cyclists to adjust wedge inserts based on their individual biomechanical needs. This dynamic customization allows the universal clipless pedal system to meet individual performance requirements without sacrificing compatibility across different cyclists and equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local customization through wedge inserts that address individual biomechanical characteristics while maintaining compatibility with the universal clipless pedal interface. This localized adaptation allows each cyclist to optimize their performance without requiring a different pedal system, thus preserving universal compatibility while meeting individual needs.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of fitting a cyclist in a cycling shoe is provided. The cycling shoe is engagable in a clipless pedal via a cleat affixed to the cycling shoe. The method includes the steps of compensating for a cyclist's biomechanical malalignments within the kinetic chain involved in cycling by providing a tilt to the cyclist's forefoot and challenging the cyclist with a neuromuscular feedback test as the cyclist uses their foot to apply a force through the cycling shoe to the clipless pedal. The compensation is varied and the cyclist is retested until a favorable response to the neuromuscular feedback test indicates a functional compensation.