Rapid-Entry Shoe With Pressure-Movable Elastic Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Many types of shoes require multiple steps to be put on, including lacing and tying, which can be cumbersome and difficult, especially for those who have difficulty bending over.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of movable elements, such as flexible and elastic components, fixedly attached to the sole portion of the shoe, allowing for rapid entry by moving under pressure to facilitate easy donning and doffing without the need for complex fastening mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional fastening mechanisms (lacing, tying) are used to secure the shoe, then the shoe maintains tightness and stability, but the process of putting on the shoe becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the fastening function from the shoe structure itself and replaces it with an external elastic band system. The elastic band is separate from the shoe upper, allowing the shoe to be slipped on easily while the elastic band provides the securing function, thus reducing the complexity of putting on the shoe while maintaining tightness.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic band is pre-attached to the shoe upper in a relaxed state, and the shoe is designed to be put on first, followed by the elastic band being stretched and secured. This preliminary positioning of the elastic band allows for rapid entry without requiring complex fastening mechanisms to be in place before the shoe is worn.
2Reliability
If multiple fastening steps are required to put on the shoe, then the shoe can be securely fastened, but the time required to put on the shoe increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the shoe system into two independent components: the shoe upper and the elastic band. This segmentation allows the shoe upper to be put on quickly without the band, and the band to be separately adjusted and secured, reducing the overall time required while maintaining security.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic band provides dynamic adjustment capability, allowing the user to quickly stretch and secure the band at different tension levels. This dynamic system replaces static, multi-step fastening mechanisms with a single, flexible securing action that can be performed rapidly.
3Reliability
If complex fastening mechanisms are used, then the shoe can be securely fastened, but the ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic band is designed to be self-securing through its elastic properties. Once stretched over the foot, the band naturally returns to its relaxed state, securing the shoe without requiring additional fastening actions. This self-service mechanism greatly simplifies the operation of putting on the shoe while maintaining secure fastening.
4Stability of the object's composition
If the shoe structure is made rigid to maintain shape and support, then the shoe provides structural integrity, but the ease of rapid entry decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent separates the structural support function (provided by the rigid shoe upper) from the entry/exit function (provided by the flexible opening and elastic band). This segmentation allows the shoe upper to maintain its rigid structure for support while the opening mechanism remains flexible for easy entry.
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 shoes to be quickly and easily put on and taken off with a single motion, maintaining the shoe's tightness and functionality, and is suitable for various shoe styles and functions.
Implementation Method 1
The second element may include an elastic element or an element constructed to have a memory of a native position
Data Source
AI summary
A rapid-entry shoe allows the shoe to be rapidly entered and readied for wearing by the user. The shoe may be any of a wide variety of shoe types, including shoes of a wide variety of styles and functions. The rapid entry features of the shoes utilize various movable elements that are attached to a sole portion or other portion of the shoe and allow movement of a portion of the shoe under pressure to allow rapid entry of the user's foot into the shoe. The moveable elements may include flexible elements, elements having constructed to have a memory of a native position, magnetic elements, and/or elastic elements.