Footwear Integrated Bow Structure for Gait Energy Return
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing articles of footwear are limited in their efficiency of storing and returning impact reaction forces during different stages of the human gait cycle, and existing insoles are constrained by the properties and geometry of the shoe in which they are used.
Innovation Solution
An article of footwear with a sole structure comprising a first and second dampening element separated by a gap, connected by a plate structure that spans the gap, allowing relative movement and energy storage during the gait cycle to assist in propulsion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the upper plate and lower plate are rigidly connected throughout, then structural strength is improved, but the ability to store and return impact reaction forces is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The plate structure is divided into two separate plates (upper plate and lower plate) that are not rigidly connected throughout. Instead, they are connected only at specific regions (forefoot and heel), creating a segmented structure that allows relative movement in the midfoot region. This segmentation enables the plates to move independently to store and return impact forces while maintaining overall structural integrity through the connection points.
2Device complexity
If dampening elements are placed close together, then device complexity is reduced, but cushioning effectiveness for different foot regions is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The dampening elements are positioned at specific locations (forefoot and heel regions) rather than being uniformly distributed. This local placement strategy provides targeted cushioning where impact forces are most significant, while the plate structure connects these regions to provide overall support. The configuration optimizes cushioning effectiveness by placing dampening elements precisely where needed rather than using a uniform complex structure throughout.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the upper plate is separated from the lower plate throughout the midfoot region, then ability to mimic windlass mechanism is improved, but structural stability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The plate structure uses selective segmentation by connecting the upper and lower plates only at the forefoot and heel regions while leaving the midfoot region separated. This creates distinct functional zones: the connected regions provide structural stability and force transfer, while the separated midfoot region allows the windlass mechanism to function by enabling relative movement that mimics the natural foot arch mechanism during gait.
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 footwear design enhances cushioning and arch support, mimicking the windlass mechanism of the human foot to improve forward propulsion and reduce fatigue.
Implementation Method 1
a first dampening element (16) to cushion a forefoot region (20) of the sole structure
Implementation Method 2
a second dampening element (18) to cushion a heel region (22) of the sole structure
Implementation Method 3
improves the support of the wearer during walking and running while providing the wearer with assistance to propel the body forward as part of the gait cycle
Data Source
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AI summary
An article of footwear comprising an upper, and a sole structure connected to the upper, the sole structure comprising a first dampening element to cushion a forefoot region of the sole structure, a second dampening element to cushion a heel region of the sole structure, the first dampening element and the second dampening element being spaced by a first gap between the forefoot region and the heel region, a plate structure extending between the forefoot region and the heel region of the sole structure, such that the plate structure spans the first gap between the first dampening element and the second dampening element, wherein the plate structure comprises an upper plate and a lower plate connected to each other in the forefoot region and in the heel region, wherein the upper plate and the lower plate are separated from each other in a midfoot region by a second gap, wherein the lower plate is connected to the first dampening element and the second dampening element, and wherein the upper plate is connected to the upper, such that the upper is spaced from the lower plate by the second gap in the midfoot region of the sole structure.