Interchangeable Footwear Chassis for Adaptable Traction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current footwear technologies lack an efficient and customizable system for providing structural support and traction, particularly in sports footwear, where different surfaces and conditions require varying levels of flexibility and grip.
Innovation Solution
An interchangeable chassis system for footwear that includes a removable cleat set and a chassis with through-holes for attaching cleats, allowing users to customize the level of traction and support based on specific surfaces and conditions, with options for different cleat configurations and materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed sole structure is used in footwear, then manufacturing is simpler and cost is reduced, but adaptability to different surfaces and conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The sole structure is divided into a base sole and interchangeable chassis components that can be separately attached and removed. This segmentation allows the footwear to maintain a simple base structure while enabling complex, adaptable configurations through modular chassis pieces designed for different surface conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The footwear transitions from a static, fixed sole structure to a dynamic system where chassis components can be added, removed, or swapped based on playing conditions. This dynamic capability allows the same footwear upper to adapt to various surfaces without requiring multiple complete shoe designs.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple sole configurations are provided for different surfaces, then adaptability improves, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of manufacturing multiple complete footwear units with different soles, the design segments the sole into a standardized base and separate chassis modules. Each chassis can be independently manufactured and then attached to the base, simplifying production while enabling multiple configuration options.
Solution Approach 2:
A single base sole design serves multiple functions by accommodating various chassis types through standardized attachment mechanisms. This universal interface allows one base model to support multiple chassis configurations, reducing the number of unique manufacturing templates needed.
3Ease of repair
If cleats are permanently attached to the sole, then structural stability is improved, but ease of repair and customization deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Attachment mechanisms are pre-installed on the base sole during manufacturing, creating prepared receptacles that securely receive chassis components. This preliminary preparation ensures strong structural connection when chassis are attached, while maintaining the ability to remove and replace them without damaging the base.
Solution Approach 2:
The chassis acts as an intermediary component between the base sole and the cleats. This intermediate element provides a removable interface that maintains structural integrity during use while enabling easy replacement of cleats or entire chassis assemblies without permanently altering the base sole.
Data Source
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AI summary
An article of footwear including cleat sets and/or cleat members can include provisions for maximizing traction between a chassis and multiple types of ground surfaces. In some embodiments, a chassis can include cleat sets and/or cleat members disposed in different locations to achieve maximum traction on multiple types of surfaces. In other embodiments, a chassis can include distinct types of cleat sets and/or cleat members that each maximize traction for a distinct type of surface. Each chassis includes a distinct type of cleat configuration. Different cleat configurations may be used to provide varying degrees of traction. In some embodiments, the chassis can include varying levels of flexibility, to provide user with options to customize the stiffness and support of the article of footwear.