Embedded Reinforcement in Particle Foam Soles for Stable Cushioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing shoe soles and additional functional elements are manufactured separately and bonded together, limiting design possibilities and material selection, and can negatively affect shoe behavior on uneven ground.
Innovation Solution
A sole comprising a midsole with randomly arranged particles of expanded material and an element with higher deformation stiffness, where the element is partially or completely embedded within the midsole, allowing independent influence on sole properties and using non-glueable materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If additional functional elements are glued to the sole, then stability and reinforcement are improved, but the sole loses adaptability and can cause slipping on uneven ground
Solution Approach 1:
The reinforcing element is designed to be movable relative to the sole rather than fixed, allowing it to adapt to uneven ground while maintaining stability. The element can move independently within the sole structure, providing dynamic adjustment to terrain variations.
Solution Approach 2:
The reinforcing element is positioned specifically in the midfoot region where additional stability is needed, while other regions of the sole maintain their natural flexibility and adaptability. This localized reinforcement solves the contradiction by providing stability only where required.
2Reliability
If additional functional elements are added to the sole, then cushioning and stability are improved, but the weight of the shoe increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sole combines expanded thermoplastic urethane material with reinforcing elements to create a composite structure that provides enhanced cushioning and stability. The expanded material itself provides cushioning properties, reducing the need for additional heavy cushioning elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The sole is divided into functional regions with different properties - the expanded material provides cushioning in specific areas while the reinforcing element provides structural support only where needed. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function rather than adding comprehensive reinforcement throughout the entire sole.
3Manufacturing precision
If the reinforcing element is fixed to the sole, then manufacturing precision is improved, but the device complexity increases due to bonding requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The reinforcing element and sole are designed to work together as an integrated system where the element moves within the sole structure rather than being separately bonded. This merging of functions eliminates the need for adhesive bonding processes while maintaining precise functional relationships.
Solution Approach 2:
The reinforcing element is designed with movable connections to the sole, allowing it to shift position dynamically rather than being fixed in place. This dynamic design simplifies manufacturing by eliminating bonding steps while maintaining functional precision through the element's ability to adapt to different ground conditions.
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
Enables greater design freedom, improved cushioning and stability, reduced weight, and enhanced comfort by allowing the element to move independently from the sole surface, while using a variety of materials and reducing manufacturing complexity.
Implementation Method 1
Expanded thermoplastic urethane is characterized by a low weight and particularly good elasticity and cushioning properties
Data Source
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AI summary
Improved soles for shoes, in particular sports shoes, are described. In one aspect of the invention, a sole for a shoe, in particular a sports shoe, is provided that comprises a midsole comprising randomly arranged particles of an expanded material. The sole further comprises an element which comprises a higher deformation stiffness in at least one direction than the expanded material. The material of the midsole surrounds the element at least partially.