Footwear Sole Structure with Cradle-Supported Bladder Cushioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional footwear sole structures lack an efficient mechanism to balance cushioning, support, and responsiveness, particularly in the heel region, leading to inadequate shock absorption and energy distribution.
Innovation Solution
A sole structure design incorporating a bladder with segmented barrier layers forming a chamber, a cradle with a top plate and end supports, and a cushioning element, which together provide a pressure-responsive shock-absorbing system with distinct cushioning and support characteristics in the heel and forefoot regions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a conventional midsole with a fluid-filled bladder is used, then cushioning is provided by compressing the bladder under load, but the balance between support and responsiveness is inadequate
Solution Approach 1:
The bladder is segmented into multiple chambers separated by partition walls, with each chamber containing a fluid-filled elastomeric element. This segmentation allows different regions to provide different functions - some chambers optimized for cushioning while others provide responsiveness, resolving the contradiction between support and responsiveness
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the midsole are designed with different characteristics: the forefoot region incorporates resilient elements for energy return and responsiveness, while the heel region uses the fluid-filled bladder system for maximum cushioning. This local differentiation allows each region to optimize its performance for the specific demands of that area
2Strength
If a polymer foam midsole material is used, then cushioning is provided by resilient compression, but shock absorption and energy distribution are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The midsole incorporates a bladder filled with fluid (air or other compressible fluid) that provides superior shock absorption and energy distribution compared to solid foam. The fluid allows for more efficient energy return while maintaining cushioning, as the fluid can be compressed and expand to return energy to the foot
3Reliability
If the bladder is formed from two barrier layers bonded together, then the bladder contains air for cushioning, but the structural integrity and responsiveness are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The bladder is constructed using composite materials - specifically, an elastomeric material bonded to a rigid or semi-rigid plate. This composite structure provides both the containment reliability of a sealed bladder and the responsiveness of a structurally supported chamber, as the plate prevents excessive deformation while the elastomeric layer provides flexibility and sealing
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 cushioning and support by allowing fluid displacement within the chamber, providing a trampoline-like response and improved energy distribution, while maintaining structural integrity and responsiveness.
Implementation Method 1
The bladders may contain air, and are designed with an emphasis on balancing support for the foot and cushioning characteristics that relate to responsiveness as the bladder resiliently compresses under an applied load to cushion the foot
Implementation Method 2
The midsole may incorporate a fluid-filled bladder to provide cushioning to the foot by compressing resiliently under an applied load to attenuate ground-reaction forces
Implementation Method 3
The midsole provides cushioning for the foot and may be partially formed from a polymer foam material that compresses resiliently under an applied load to cushion the foot by attenuating ground-reaction forces
Implementation Method 4
The first end support comprising a first distal end and disposed adjacent to and facing an end wall of the recess, the first distal end of the first end support including a lip extending outwardly therefrom
Data Source
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AI summary
An aspect of the disclosure provides a structure for an article of footwear. The sole structure includes a cushioning element having a first material. The sole structure further includes a cradle including a second material, attached to the cushioning element, and including a plate disposed against the cushioning element and a pair of supports extending from opposite ends of the plate. The sole structure also includes a bladder disposed within the cradle between the supports. An upper barrier layer of the bladder contacts the plate.