Foot Support Fluid Distributors for Adjustable Bladder Pressure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional athletic footwear lacks efficient systems for controlling and adjusting fluid pressure within and between fluid-filled bladders and reservoirs, which can affect foot support and comfort.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of solenoids and fluid distributors in footwear structures to manage fluid flow and pressure, allowing selective movement of fluid between bladders and reservoirs through latching and non-latching solenoids, enabling controlled pressure adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional athletic footwear is used without fluid control systems, then the footwear structure remains simple, but foot support and pressure control are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The footwear is divided into multiple functional zones with separate fluid-filled bladders (heel bladder, midfoot bladder, forefoot bladder) that can be independently controlled. Each bladder serves a specific foot support function, allowing localized pressure adjustment without affecting the entire footwear structure.
Solution Approach 2:
Fluid-filled bladders are integrated into the footwear sole structure to provide adjustable pressure support. The bladders can be inflated or deflated to control foot support pressure dynamically, transforming the footwear from a static structure to an active pressure control system.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fluid-filled bladders are added to footwear, then foot support pressure can be adjusted, but the footwear becomes more complex and harder to control
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates automatic pressure control mechanisms that respond to user needs without requiring manual intervention. Sensors detect foot pressure and fluid level, and the control system automatically activates solenoids to maintain optimal pressure in each bladder zone.
Solution Approach 2:
Pressure sensors and fluid level sensors provide continuous feedback to the control system, which adjusts solenoid activation to maintain desired pressure levels. This closed-loop control simplifies operation by eliminating the need for users to manually monitor and adjust each bladder.
3Measurement precision
If multiple solenoids and fluid distributors are incorporated, then precise fluid control is achieved, but the device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fluid distributor serves multiple functions: it distributes fluid to multiple bladders, collects fluid from bladders, and integrates sensor connections. The solenoids are mounted on a common manifold structure that simplifies assembly. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple fluid channels and control mechanisms are merged into integrated assemblies. The fluid distributor combines multiple solenoid mounts, fluid channels, and sensor connections into a single modular unit that can be installed as one component rather than multiple separate parts.
4Manufacturing precision
If fluid transfer systems are added to move fluid between bladders and reservoirs, then pressure control precision improves, but the system complexity and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the foot's natural movement and pressure changes to drive fluid transfer between bladders and reservoirs. Kinetic energy from walking or running is converted into fluid movement through check-valved pathways, eliminating the need for active pumps and reducing energy consumption.
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
Enhances foot support and comfort by providing precise control over fluid pressure within footwear, improving energy absorption and motion control.
Implementation Method 1
a first solenoid (4900A) engaged with the fluid distributor (720) at the first solenoid mount (710A) and a second solenoid (4900B) engaged with the fluid distributor (720) at the second solenoid mount (710B)
Data Source
AI summary
Foot support systems include a first foot support bladder, a fluid tank, and a fluid distributor. The fluid distributor's body may have: (a) first and second solenoid mounts, (b) a main fluid distribution channel in fluid communication with the first and second solenoid mounts, (c) a tank channel in fluid communication with the first solenoid mount, (d) a first foot support bladder channel in fluid communication with the second solenoid mount, (e) a first foot support connector connecting the first foot support bladder with the first foot support bladder channel, and (f) a tank connector connecting the fluid tank with the tank channel. First and second solenoids are engaged with the fluid distributor at the first and second solenoid mounts, respectively. In some examples, the fluid distributor may include a third solenoid mount and a second foot support connector for use with a second foot support bladder.