Laser Siping Control for Precise Footwear Sole Patterns
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for forming sipes on articles, such as shoe soles, using cutting blades are prone to human error and may not achieve precise and efficient siping patterns.
Innovation Solution
A laser siping apparatus and method that utilizes both a scan and fixed laser configurations, combined with a programmable reflective surface and multi-axis robot system, to form sipes with precise control and efficiency, allowing for both continuous and discrete siping patterns on various surfaces of articles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a cutting blade is used to form sipes, then siping can be performed with simple equipment, but the process is prone to human error and lacks precision
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical cutting blade system with a laser-based system. The laser apparatus uses optical energy instead of mechanical contact to form sipes, eliminating the need for physical blades and the manual operation associated with them. This substitution enables precise control of siping patterns through laser parameters while removing the source of human error inherent in manual blade operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes programmable parameters to control the laser siping process. By adjusting laser power, speed, pulse duration, and scanning patterns, the system can precisely control sipe depth, width, and spacing. These parameter changes allow for repeatable, high-precision siping patterns without the variability introduced by manual blade operation.
2Productivity
If manual cutting blade operation is used, then equipment setup is simple, but repositioning and pattern consistency are difficult to achieve
Solution Approach 1:
The laser siping apparatus is designed to handle multiple siping configurations through a single unified system. The programmable controller can execute different scanning patterns, adjust laser parameters, and adapt to various article geometries without requiring physical reconfiguration of cutting tools. This multi-functionality enables the system to efficiently produce diverse siping patterns while maintaining consistent quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a dynamic laser scanning system that can adjust its motion and parameters in real-time. The laser beam can be rapidly repositioned and its parameters modified during the siping process, allowing for efficient adaptation to different patterns and article shapes. This dynamic control eliminates the need for manual repositioning and tool changes, significantly improving productivity.
3Reliability
If laser siping is implemented with programmable control, then precision and consistency are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms through its programmable controller that monitors and adjusts laser parameters during operation. The system can track position, control pulse timing, and maintain consistent energy delivery across the entire siping pattern. This feedback control ensures repeatable results while automating the complexity of parameter management, making the system reliable and consistent.
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 precise and efficient formation of sipes with varying depths and widths, enhancing traction and aesthetics on articles like shoe soles, while minimizing human error and reducing repositioning time.
Implementation Method 1
creating at least one of an opening, passage, cavity or engraved pattern in the at least one part of the sole assembly by means of the laser beam, or removing material from the at least one part of the sole assembly by means of the laser beam
Data Source
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AI summary
Laser siping forms sipes in an article. The laser operates in a scan laser configuration for some sipe patterns and the laser operates in a fixed laser concept for other siping patterns. The article on which the sipes are formed is secured by a part holder. Movement of the part holder may be computer controlled. Movement of the laser may also be computer controlled. A movement of a reflective surface of the laser may be computer controlled. Together, the movement of the part holder, the laser, and the reflective surface is coordinated to achieve the scan laser configuration and the fixed laser configuration when forming sipes.