Footwear Instep Strap System for Torsional Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional athletic footwear lacks effective mechanisms to securely lock the foot to the ground under torsional forces, such as those experienced during a golf swing, and to provide stable support and prevent undesired distortion of the footwear upper.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a strap system connecting heel and forefoot support sidewalls across the instep, with rigid metal or polymer materials and strategically placed cleats featuring substantially flat and vertical surfaces to enhance stability and prevent rotational motion, while the strap system tightens diagonally to secure the foot.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional athletic footwear is used, then basic foot coverage and comfort are provided, but the footwear cannot securely lock the foot to the ground under torsional forces
Solution Approach 1:
The footwear is divided into distinct functional segments: a heel support sidewall extending along the heel area, a forefoot support sidewall extending along the forefoot area, and a strap system connecting them. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while working together to provide overall stability and foot locking capability under torsional forces.
Solution Approach 2:
The strap system is configured to extend diagonally across the instep portion of the foot, creating a cross-bracing effect that resists torsional forces in multiple directions. This diagonal arrangement adds a dimensional element that enhances stability without requiring complex mechanical structures.
2Reliability
If conventional footwear structures are used, then basic support is provided, but stable support at key areas like heel and forefoot is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The heel support sidewall and forefoot support sidewall are positioned at specific locations where stability is most needed. The heel support sidewall extends along the heel area to prevent heel lift and rotation, while the forefoot support sidewall extends along the forefoot area to prevent forefoot collapse and maintain ground contact. This localized support approach provides stable support at key areas without requiring complex structures throughout the entire footwear.
3Stability of the object's composition
If conventional footwear designs are used, then basic comfort is provided, but undesired distortion of the footwear upper is prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The heel support sidewall and forefoot support sidewall are pre-positioned and attached to the upper and sole structure before the foot is inserted. These support elements are integrated into the footwear construction to prevent undesired distortion of the upper structure during normal wear and torsional movements, maintaining structural integrity without requiring additional complex support systems.
Data Source
AI summary
Footwear includes structural features that may provide one or more of the following features or functions: (a) help “lock” the wearer to the ground under torsional forces induced in the leg/foot (e.g., by a golf swing or other activities); (b) help provide stable support, e.g., at the medial heel and/or lateral forefoot areas; (c) help support and prevent undesired distortion of the footwear upper, e.g., when torsional forces are applied; and/or (d) help provide a very stable and secure feel and fit by securing across the instep portion of the foot, e.g., in a forward lateral-to-rear medial direction (e.g., between medial heel and lateral forefoot sidewall supports).