Fluid Flow Regulator for Dynamic Foot Support Firmness
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional articles of athletic footwear lack effective systems for dynamically adjusting the hardness or firmness of the foot support portion and for efficiently controlling fluid flow between different components of the foot support system.
Innovation Solution
The integration of a fluid flow regulator and valve system that allows for the controlled transfer of fluid between fluid containers within the footwear, enabling adjustments to the hardness of the foot support, equalizing pressure, and acting as a check valve to manage gas pressure differentials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional footwear structures are used, then the simplicity and ease of manufacture are maintained, but the ability to dynamically adjust foot support firmness is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adjustment of foot support firmness through a fluid flow control system that allows real-time transfer of fluid between first and second fluid containers. The valve mechanism enables the system to transition between different firmness states by controlling fluid flow, transforming a static support structure into a dynamically adjustable one that adapts to user needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention utilizes fluid (gas or liquid) as the medium for adjusting foot support characteristics. By controlling the flow of fluid between containers through a valve system, the patent applies pneumatic or hydraulic principles to modify the firmness of the foot support portion, enabling dynamic adjustment without complex mechanical moving parts.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fluid transfer between containers is enabled, then foot support firmness can be adjusted, but the risk of uncontrolled fluid flow and pressure imbalance increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a check valve mechanism that automatically responds to pressure differentials between fluid containers. When pressure in one container exceeds the other by a predetermined amount, the check valve opens to allow fluid flow, equalizing the pressure. This feedback mechanism ensures reliable control of fluid flow and prevents pressure imbalances without requiring external control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The check valve system operates autonomously based on pressure conditions within the fluid containers. The valve self-regulates fluid flow by opening when pressure differential exceeds a threshold and closing when pressures equalize, eliminating the need for external actuators or control systems and enhancing system reliability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a valve system is added to control fluid flow, then firmness adjustment capability is improved, but the manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a valve system designed for fluid flow control that integrates into the footwear manufacturing process. The valve, along with fluid containers and transfer passages, can be manufactured as integrated components or pre-assembled subunits, facilitating incorporation into conventional footwear production lines and mitigating manufacturing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The fluid flow control system serves multiple functions: adjusting foot support firmness, equalizing pressure between containers, and preventing uncontrolled fluid flow. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, simplifying the overall manufacturing process while maintaining adaptability.
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
This solution provides dynamic adjustment of foot support firmness, efficient fluid flow management, and effective pressure equalization, enhancing the comfort and performance of athletic footwear.
Implementation Method 1
the movable valve part includes at least a portion made from a magnetic attractable material
Data Source
AI summary
Foot support systems include a fluid flow regulator and/or valve that: (a) can operate as a stop valve to stop transfer of fluid between a first fluid container and a second fluid container, (b) can open in a controlled manner to allow transfer of fluid from the second fluid container to the first fluid container, (c) can open to equalize pressure in the first and second fluid containers, and (d) can act as a check valve to enable flow of fluid from the first fluid container to the second fluid container when/if gas pressure in the first container exceeds that in the second container by a predetermined amount. Additional features relate to fluid flow control systems and methods, systems and methods for changing and controlling the crack pressure of a valve (e.g., a check valve), and/or systems and methods for matching foot support pressure features in two different sole structures.