Flexible Heel Traction Device with Movable Spikes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing traction devices for footwear are insufficiently flexible, leading to inefficient contact with slippery surfaces, limiting their effectiveness in providing anti-slip protection on low-friction surfaces like ice and snow.
Innovation Solution
A flexible heel traction device with a traction platform made of rubber, equipped with spike assemblies and a Velcro strap, designed to securely attach to footwear, allowing efficient contact and grip on slippery surfaces through weight transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If rigid traction devices with spikes are used, then traction effectiveness is improved, but flexibility and comfort are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The traction device is segmented into multiple independent components: a flexible base layer, a middle layer with recesses, and spike assemblies that can move independently. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while collectively providing both flexibility and traction effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The spike assemblies are designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing them to dynamically adjust their position and angle in response to ground conditions and user movement. This dynamic capability enables the spikes to maintain optimal contact with slippery surfaces while the flexible base adapts to various terrains and user comfort requirements.
2Strength
If rigid traction devices are used, then spike engagement with ground is improved, but contact efficiency on slippery surfaces is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The traction device uses a flexible base layer and middle layer that can conform to the contours of slippery surfaces. This flexibility ensures maximum contact area between the spike assemblies and the ground, improving contact efficiency while maintaining strong spike engagement through the flexible material's ability to adapt to surface variations.
Solution Approach 2:
The device allows the spike assemblies to change their orientation and penetration depth parameters in response to ground conditions. The flexible layers enable the spikes to adjust their angle and depth of engagement automatically, optimizing both spike engagement strength and contact efficiency on varying slippery surfaces.
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 flexible design and spike assemblies of the heel traction device ensure effective engagement with the ground, enhancing traction and reducing the risk of slipping, even on inclined or obscured surfaces.
Implementation Method 1
The strap that is received in the slots is separate from the support band and is preferably a Velcro strap
Implementation Method 2
The strap that is received in the slots is separate from the support band and is preferably a Velcro strap
Implementation Method 3
The flexibility of the heel traction device and the inclusion of a separate strap, preferably a Velcro strap, that is preferably received in slots formed in the heel traction device permits the traction elements to contact and grip the ground efficiently in harnessing the user's weight transfer
Implementation Method 4
The heel traction device as attached to the heel of a shoe or boot has traction elements which are preferably spikes as part of a spike assembly that engage the ground to provide improved traction
Data Source
AI summary
A heel traction device for attachment to a heel of a shoe or a boot comprises a traction platform formed of a flexible rubber material. The traction platform has a first face for contacting a ground surface and a second face for attachment to the heel of the shoe or boot. The traction platform defines a plurality of openings formed therethrough for receiving a traction element in each of said openings. A support band is connected to the traction platform for securing the traction platform to the shoe or a boot. The support band has a rear portion for attachment to a rear portion of the shoe or the boot and two opposing side portions for attachment to side portions of the shoe or the boot. Each of the side portions define a slot formed therethrough for receiving a strap.