Directional Stretch Shoe Upper With Reinforcement for Foot Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sports shoe uppers face challenges in balancing stretchability and stability, with non-stretchable uppers failing to conform to foot shape and stretchable uppers lacking support, leading to diminished comfort and performance.
Innovation Solution
A one-way stretchable material in the base layer combined with reinforcement elements that limit stretchability in a specific direction, allowing for targeted stretchability control and adaptation to foot shape while maintaining stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a non-stretchable one-piece upper is used, then production is simplified and the upper remains tight on the foot, but the upper cannot follow the complex shape of the last and foot, diminishing wearing comfort and performance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by utilizing a one-way stretchable material that can stretch in one direction (to follow the complex shape of the last and foot) while remaining stable in the other direction (to maintain tightness and support during sport activities). This directional parameter change resolves the contradiction between adaptability and manufacturing simplicity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a stretchable material is used for the one-piece upper, then the upper can follow the complex shape of the last and foot, but the upper cannot properly hold and support the foot during walking and running, requiring large and heavy reinforcement elements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a one-way stretchable material that changes its mechanical parameters directionally: it is stretchable in one direction to follow the complex shape of the last and foot, while being essentially non-stretchable in the perpendicular direction to provide stability and support during sport activities. This eliminates the need for heavy reinforcement elements.
3Stability of the object's composition
If large and numerous reinforcement elements are added to a stretchable upper, then stability and support are achieved, but the additional weight and stiff portions diminish wearing comfort and performance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves stability without additional weight by using a one-way stretchable material that inherently provides directional stability. The material is essentially non-stretchable in the direction perpendicular to the stretch direction, providing the necessary support and stability during sport activities without requiring any reinforcement elements.
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 solution enhances wearing comfort and performance by ensuring a precise fit and support, reducing weight and production complexity, and optimizing production efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
the one-way stretchable material is stretchable in a first direction
Implementation Method 2
The reinforcement element is arranged such as to limit the stretchability of the one-way stretchable material at least in the first direction
Data Source
AI summary
An upper for a shoe, particularly a sports shoe. The upper includes a base layer having a one-way stretchable material, in which the one-way stretchable material is stretchable in a first direction. The upper further includes at least one reinforcement element, in which the reinforcement element is arranged such as to limit the stretchability of the one-way stretchable material at least in the first direction.