Forefoot Spring Plate Shoe 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, utilizing a torsion spring to bias the plates apart and store energy, which is then returned during the propulsion phase, with the option to adjust the spring force for personalized fit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If heel springs are used to store energy during the contact phase, then energy absorption is improved, but energy return is lost by the time the propulsion phase begins
Solution Approach 1:
The shoe is divided into distinct functional zones: heel springs for contact phase energy absorption and forefoot springs for propulsion phase energy return. This segmentation allows each spring system to operate independently at the optimal phase of the gait cycle, preventing energy loss that occurs when relying on a single heel-based system.
Solution Approach 2:
The forefoot springs are pre-positioned and pre-loaded during the contact and mid-stance phases, storing energy in advance of the propulsion phase. This preliminary action ensures that energy is readily available for immediate return during toe-off, eliminating the delay and energy dissipation associated with heel spring systems.
2Use of energy by moving object
If springs are positioned under the ball of the foot, then energy return during propulsion phase is improved, but adverse physiological effects occur if not properly positioned
Solution Approach 1:
The spring system is strategically positioned in the forefoot portion of the shoe, specifically in front of the flex zone and ahead of the ball portion. This localized positioning places the energy return mechanism exactly where it is needed for propulsion while avoiding direct contact with the ball of the foot, thereby eliminating adverse physiological effects.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring mechanism acts as an intermediary between the ground reaction force and the foot. By positioning the springs in the forefoot portion rather than directly under the ball of the foot, the system mediates energy return through the shoe structure, providing the beneficial propulsion effect while avoiding direct pressure points that cause discomfort or injury.
3Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable mechanisms are added to personalize fit, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spring system incorporates adjustable elements that allow the user to modify spring tension and positioning based on individual needs. This dynamic adjustability enables personalized fit and optimization of energy return characteristics without requiring complex electronic controls or multiple interchangeable components.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustability is achieved by allowing changes in physical parameters such as spring compression, spring tension, and positioning within the forefoot portion. These parameter changes enable users to customize the energy return characteristics to their specific biomechanical needs while maintaining a relatively simple mechanical structure.
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 during the propulsion phase, enhancing performance by providing a launch factor, and is easily adjustable for comfort and fit, with the energy return mechanism located where it is most needed at the front of the shoe.
Implementation Method 1
a nest formed as a bag filled with one or more gasses located between the first plate and the second plate
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.