Impregnated Covering Structure for Variable-Elasticity Insoles

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing three-dimensional modeling equipment for manufacturing shoe insoles faces challenges in simplifying the nozzle's moving path complexity when forming regions with different elasticity, improving usability based on pressure distribution, preventing the peeling of covering layers from base layers, and maintaining optimal shapes for users.

Innovation Solution

The solution involves creating a structure with first and second elastic regions using linear resin, where the resin thickness differs between regions, and a manufacturing method that acquires pressure distribution data to generate forming data for the nozzle's path and thickness, ensuring the covering layer is impregnated into the base layer for strong bonding, and using shape memory materials for adaptable designs.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the arrangement interval of linear resin is changed between different elastic regions to achieve varying elasticity, then the usability of the structure is improved, but the moving path complexity of the nozzle increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelasticity variationVSAvoidnozzle moving path complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by varying the thickness of the linear resin in different regions (first elastic region with greater thickness, second elastic region with lesser thickness) while maintaining a uniform arrangement interval. This allows different elasticity characteristics in different regions without complicating the nozzle moving path, as the nozzle follows a consistent grid pattern throughout the forming process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Adaptability or versatility

If the covering layer is formed with linear resin ejected from a spaced nozzle to create a linear structure, then the structure can be manufactured with various functions, but the bonding strength between covering layer and base layer decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructure function variationVSAvoidbonding strength
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the nesting principle by forming the linear resin structure directly onto the base layer, where the linear resin embeds into and integrates with the base layer surface. This nested configuration creates a strong mechanical interlocking between the covering layer and base layer, preventing peeling while maintaining the ability to manufacture structures with various functions through material selection and design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

3Ease of operation

If the linear resin thickness is increased in certain regions to improve cushioning, then the usability is enhanced, but the manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecushioning performanceVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by varying only the thickness parameter of the linear resin in different regions while keeping other parameters (arrangement interval, nozzle moving path, material composition) constant. This selective parameter modification achieves different cushioning performances in different regions without significantly increasing manufacturing complexity, as the same nozzle and forming process are used throughout.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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

This approach simplifies the nozzle's moving path, enhances usability by customizing cushioning based on pressure distribution, prevents peeling of layers, and allows for shape retention and adaptation to user needs.

Implementation Method 1

a base layer made of a shape memory material containing a shape memory polymer

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectShape memory: Shape Memory Polymer

Data Source

PatentEP4179911B1Structure and manufacturing method for a structure
Publication Date: 2024.12.25 KYORAKU CO LTD
  • EP4179911B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4179911B1 patent drawingFigure 2A~2C
  • EP4179911B1 patent drawingFigure 3A~3B

AI summary

The present invention relates to a structure comprising: a base layer; and a covering layer including a linear structure and an impregnated layer; wherein the linear structure is configured to cover at least a part of the base layer, the linear structure is formed on the impregnated layer, and a resin forming the impregnated layer is impregnated in the base layer.