Differing-Hardness Sole Structure for Terrain-Specific Cushioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sole structures in footwear lack the ability to adapt to various terrains and activities, providing inconsistent cushioning and traction due to uniform hardness and material composition.
Innovation Solution
A sole structure with distinct regions of varying hardness, each formed from different materials, including a first outer region with a Shore A durometer of 48-54, a second outer region with 64-70, and a third outer region with 85-91, allowing for differential engagement with the ground surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a uniform hardness sole structure is used, then manufacturing is simple and consistent, but adaptability to diverse terrains and activities is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The sole structure is divided into multiple distinct regions (first outer region, second outer region, third outer region) with different hardness values. Each region is positioned at specific distances from the longitudinal axis, creating a segmented architecture that provides different functional characteristics for various terrains and activities.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the sole are assigned different material properties (hardness values) to optimize performance for specific functions. The first outer region (48-54 Shore A) provides cushioning, the second outer region (64-70 Shore A) provides intermediate support, and the third outer region (85-91 Shore A) provides durability and traction, allowing each local area to be optimized for its specific role.
2Adaptability or versatility
If different materials with varying hardness are used in different regions, then adaptability and cushioning are improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The manufacturing process is segmented into distinct steps for forming each region with its specific material composition. The first outer region, second outer region, and third outer region are formed separately with their respective hardness values, allowing for controlled material placement and curing processes that manage manufacturing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The sole structure utilizes composite materials with different hardness values in different regions. By combining materials with varying Shore A durometer ratings (48-54, 64-70, and 85-91) in a single sole structure, the invention achieves tailored performance characteristics while managing manufacturing through established composite material formation techniques.
3Reliability
If a single material composition is used, then manufacturing is straightforward, but cushioning and traction performance is inconsistent
Solution Approach 1:
The sole structure implements local quality by assigning specific material compositions to specific regions. The first outer region uses material with 48-54 Shore A hardness for superior cushioning, the second outer region uses 64-70 Shore A material for balanced support, and the third outer region uses 85-91 Shore A material for durability and traction, ensuring each area performs reliably for its intended function.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the physical parameter of hardness (Shore A durometer) across different regions of the sole. By systematically varying this parameter from 48-54 in the first outer region to 64-70 in the second outer region and 85-91 in the third outer region, the sole achieves consistent and reliable performance across different terrains and activities.
Data Source
AI summary
A sole structure of an article of footwear includes a first outer region, a second outer region, and a third outer region. The first outer region is at least partially disposed a first distance from a longitudinal axis and includes a first hardness. The second outer region is at least partially disposed a second distance from the longitudinal axis and includes a second hardness that is greater than the first hardness. The third outer region is at least partially disposed between the first outer region and the second outer region a third distance from the longitudinal axis and includes a third hardness that is greater than the first hardness and less than the second hardness. The second distance is greater than the first distance, and the third distance is greater than the first distance and less than the second distance.