Footwear Inner Outer Layer Indirect Coupling
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional footwear designs often face issues with the lack of direct attachment between inner and outer layers, disproportionate shapes, and limited flexibility in the ankle region, which can affect comfort, stability, and ease of use.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates an outer layer and an inner layer made from knitted components, with the outer layer being fully or partially formed without seams and having a higher stretch resistance, while the inner layer provides flexibility and comfort through elastic construction and void spots in the ankle region, allowing for securement via tensile elements and apertures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the inner layer and outer layer are made from knitted components with different stretch resistance, then comfort and stability are improved, but the layers become difficult to attach directly
Solution Approach 1:
A midsole component is introduced as an intermediary element between the inner layer and outer layer. The midsole includes a first interface with the inner layer and a second interface with the outer layer, serving as a mediator that facilitates attachment between the two knitted layers with different stretch properties. This resolves the contradiction by providing a stable attachment mechanism without compromising the distinct functional characteristics of each layer.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the outer layer has higher stretch resistance than the inner layer, then structural stability is improved, but the ankle region flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating void spots in the ankle region of the outer layer. These void spots are localized areas where the knitted structure is modified to reduce material density and increase flexibility specifically in the ankle region, while maintaining the higher stretch resistance of the outer layer in other areas. This allows the ankle to flex freely without compromising the overall structural stability provided by the stretch-resistant outer layer material.
3Ease of operation
If the inner layer is made fully elastic for comfort, then friction is reduced, but the layer lacks structural support
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs composite materials by combining the inner elastic knitted layer with the midsole component and outer layer to create a composite structure. The inner layer provides comfort through its elastic properties, while the midsole and outer layer contribute structural support. The midsole acts as a structural bridge, and the outer layer provides additional support and protection, creating a composite system where each material performs its optimal function.
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 configuration enhances comfort, stability, and ease of use by providing a strong and durable outer layer, a compliant inner layer for reduced friction, and improved ankle flexibility, while allowing for secure tightening around the foot.
Implementation Method 1
the outer layer being fully or partially formed without seams and having a higher stretch resistance
Implementation Method 2
the inner layer provides flexibility and comfort through elastic construction
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
The present embodiments generally relate to an article of footwear with multiple layers. The article of footwear may include an inner layer with a void dimensioned for receipt of at least a portion of a foot. The article of footwear may also include an outer layer, where the outer layer at least partially surrounds the inner layer. A midsole may be disposed between the inner and outer layers, where the midsole is secured to the inner layer and the outer layer to thereby form an indirect coupling between the inner layer and the outer layer. The inner layer may be movable relative to the outer layer at one or more locations separate from the indirect coupling.