Automated Footwear Platform Assembly for Interchangeable Lacing Engines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motorized lacing systems for footwear suffer from high manufacturing costs, complexity, assembly challenges, lack of serviceability, and fragile mechanical mechanisms, making them unsuitable for mass production and daily use.
Innovation Solution
A modular footwear platform designed to accommodate both motorized and non-motorized lacing engines, featuring a robust and interchangeable lacing engine with integrated foot presence sensing, tactile and visual feedback, and a streamlined assembly process that allows for retail-level customization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If motorized lacing systems are implemented in footwear, then automated tightening function is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lacing system is divided into separate functional modules: a lacing engine housed in a lacing engine housing, a midsole plate, and a footwear upper. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently using standard processes and assembled later, reducing overall manufacturing complexity and cost while preserving the automated tightening function.
Solution Approach 2:
The lacing engine housing acts as an intermediary component that interfaces between the motorized lacing mechanism and the footwear upper. This intermediate structure simplifies assembly by providing a pre-integrated unit that can be installed as a single module, reducing manufacturing complexity.
2Extent of automation
If motorized lacing systems are implemented in footwear, then automated tightening function is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the lacing engine into its own housing module, the complex motorized mechanisms are contained within a defined boundary. This segmentation isolates complexity to a specific component rather than distributing it throughout the entire footwear structure, making the overall system more manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The lacing engine housing is designed as a universal module that can accommodate different motorized lacing mechanisms and be integrated into various footwear types. This standardization reduces device complexity by using repeated, proven designs rather than custom solutions for each application.
3Extent of automation
If motorized lacing systems are implemented in footwear, then automated tightening function is achieved, but assembly difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into three main assemblies: midsole plate, lacing engine housing, and footwear upper. Each can be prepared independently and assembled in a straightforward sequence, reducing assembly difficulty compared to integrating all components simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The lacing engine is pre-assembled within its housing as a complete functional unit before integration into the footwear. This preliminary assembly simplifies the final integration step, as the entire motorized lacing mechanism is installed as a single module rather than assembling individual components in place.
4Extent of automation
If motorized lacing systems are implemented in footwear, then automated tightening function is achieved, but serviceability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The lacing engine housing is designed as a separable module that can be removed from the footwear upper. This segmentation enables serviceability by allowing the motorized lacing mechanism to be accessed, replaced, or repaired independently without damaging the footwear upper or requiring complete disassembly of the shoe.
5Extent of automation
If motorized lacing systems are implemented in footwear, then automated tightening function is achieved, but mechanical fragility increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lacing engine housing provides a protective enclosure for the motorized lacing mechanisms before they are subjected to use conditions. This housing cushions and protects the fragile mechanical and electrical components from impacts, moisture, and other environmental factors that could cause failure during daily use.
Solution Approach 2:
The standardized lacing engine housing design has been optimized for reliability through repeated use and testing. This universal module incorporates proven protective features and mounting arrangements that enhance mechanical strength and reduce fragility compared to custom-designed systems.
Data Source
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AI summary
Assembly methods related to an automated footwear platform including a lacing engine drive apparatus are discussed. In an example, an assembly method can include operations such as inserting a mid-sole plate, attaching a laced upper portion, and inserting a lacing engine. The inserting a mid-sole plate operation can include inserting the mid-sole plate into a mid-sole of the footwear platform. The attaching a laced upper portion operation can include attaching a laced upper portion to the mid-sole and positioning a lace loop in the mid-sole plate. Finally, the inserting a lacing engine operation can include inserting a lacing engine into a cavity in the mid-sole plate, wherein the lacing engine includes a lace spool exposed along a superior surface to receive the lace loop.