Forefoot Spring Plate Shoe Structure for Propulsion Energy Return
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing footwear technologies fail to effectively store and return energy during the propulsion phase of the gait cycle, as energy stored in the heel spring is dissipated by the time the propulsion phase begins, and devices under the ball of the foot can have adverse physiological effects if not properly positioned.
Innovation Solution
A shoe design featuring a gas-filled bag with springs positioned between two plates in the forefoot portion, which biases the plates apart to store and return energy during the propulsion phase, using a torsion spring for adjustability and lightweight foam or a shroud to prevent debris entry.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If heel springs are used to store and return energy, then energy absorption during contact phase is improved, but energy is dissipated by the time propulsion phase begins
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional location of energy storage from the heel to the forefoot. By placing springs and gas-filled bags in the forefoot portion of the shoe, the energy storage mechanism is positioned to function during the propulsion phase rather than the contact phase, directly addressing the timing mismatch problem.
Solution Approach 2:
The forefoot energy storage mechanism is prepared in advance during the contact and mid-stance phases, with springs and gas-filled bags pre-positioned to activate precisely when needed during toe-off. This preliminary positioning ensures energy is stored and returned at the optimal moment in the gait cycle.
2Use of energy by moving object
If springs are positioned under the ball of the foot, then energy storage during propulsion phase is improved, but adverse physiological effects occur if not properly positioned
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating a distributed array of multiple springs and gas-filled bags across the forefoot portion rather than concentrating them under the ball of the foot. This distribution spreads the mechanical load across a larger area, reducing localized stress and potential physiological harm while maintaining effective energy storage.
Solution Approach 2:
The energy storage system is segmented into multiple discrete springs and gas-filled bags rather than using a single large spring. This segmentation allows for better load distribution and reduces the risk of adverse physiological effects while maintaining overall energy storage capacity.
3Power
If gas-filled bag with springs is used in forefoot portion, then energy return during propulsion phase is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two energy storage mechanisms - springs and gas-filled bags - into a unified forefoot energy storage system. This combination allows the springs to handle high-frequency elastic deformation while the gas-filled bags provide additional compliance and energy storage, creating a synergistic system that improves energy return without proportionally increasing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The forefoot energy storage mechanism serves multiple functions: energy storage during propulsion, cushioning during impact, and providing a compliant interface between the foot and shoe. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby managing overall device complexity while improving performance.
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
The shoe effectively stores and returns energy at the front of the foot, enhancing propulsion and reducing the risk of physiological issues by positioning the energy storage mechanism in the forefoot area, where it is needed most, and is easy to install by replacing part of the midsole.
Implementation Method 1
a nest formed as a bag filled with one or more gasses located between the first plate and the second plate. The shoe may further include one or more springs located in cavities in the gas filled nest for biasing the first plate and the second plate apart from each other
Implementation Method 2
one or more springs located in cavities in the gas filled nest for biasing the first plate and the second plate apart from each other
Data Source
AI summary
A shoe includes a first plate and a second plate that are located in a portion of the shoe between an upper and an outsole of the shoe, and a nest formed as a bag filled with one or more gasses located between the first plate and the second plate. The shoe may further include one or more springs located in cavities in the gas filled nest for biasing the first plate and the second plate apart from each other. Pods may be located within the openings in the center of the springs, and the pods may be filled with one or more gasses. The pods may protrude from a bottom or a top surface of the nest. Spring sandwiches including one or more springs positioned between plates may be constructed and placed in various portions of a shoe. The shoe may also include piping with lights.