Portable Footwear Steaming System for Custom Fit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for custom fitting articles of footwear post-manufacturing lack efficiency and convenience, as they often require time-consuming breaking-in processes that do not fully adapt to individual foot shapes and sizes.
Innovation Solution
A steaming apparatus and method that uses a container and lid system to apply steam to the footwear, softening materials to allow for customizable fitting by molding to the user's foot, with flanges securing the shoe in an inverted position for uniform steam exposure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional breaking-in processes are used for custom fitting footwear, then the footwear may eventually adapt to the foot shape, but the process is time-consuming and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by using steam heat to raise the temperature of the footwear upper material, changing its physical state from rigid to pliable. This thermal parameter change enables the material to be molded to the foot shape in minutes rather than requiring days or weeks of traditional breaking-in time, while achieving precise custom fit
2Adaptability or versatility
If steam is applied to soften footwear materials for customization, then the materials become moldable to foot contours, but the footwear must be held in a specific inverted position requiring secure fixation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies inversion by positioning the footwear upside down (inverted position) in the steaming apparatus. This inverted positioning allows the steam to uniformly penetrate the upper material from all surfaces while the flanges secure the footwear in this reversed orientation, enabling comprehensive softening and molding capability
3Ease of operation
If a removable area is created in the lid to receive the footwear upper, then the footwear can be properly positioned for steaming, but the lid structure becomes more complex with flanges and removable sections
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the lid into distinct functional sections: a removable area that can be completely detached to form an aperture for inserting the footwear upper, and flange structures that secure the footwear in position. This segmented design enables easy footwear insertion and positioning while maintaining the integrity of the steam-tight chamber when closed
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
Enables rapid customization of footwear to fit specific foot shapes and sizes, improving comfort and fit by allowing materials to mold to the foot's contours during the cooling process, thus streamlining the fitting process and enhancing user experience.
Implementation Method 1
a steaming apparatus and method that uses a container and lid system to apply steam to the footwear, softening materials to allow for customizable fitting
Data Source
AI summary
A steaming system for an article of footwear includes a container with a lid configured to accommodate a steam source. The system also includes provisions for securing the article of footwear such that a majority of the upper is subjected to steam. Articles of footwear may be placed in the steaming system to help customize the articles of apparel for a user's fit and comfort. The steaming system can be configured to be portable and carried by a person.