Removable Heel Insert with Circumferential Snap-Fit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing footwear heel inserts often lack a secure and customizable attachment mechanism, leading to inadequate fit and comfort, as they typically rely on mechanical connections that may not extend circumferentially around the heel counter, limiting their ability to provide consistent support and cushioning.
Innovation Solution
A removable heel insert system featuring a first connector portion integrally formed on the heel counter and a corresponding second connector portion on the heel insert, allowing for a snap-fit attachment along the entire circumferential length, with optional cushioning for enhanced comfort and fit customization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a mechanical connection is used to secure the heel insert to the shoe, then the heel insert can be attached to the shoe, but the attachment may not extend circumferentially around the heel counter, limiting secure fit
Solution Approach 1:
The connector portion is divided into multiple segments distributed circumferentially around the heel counter. Each segment includes a connector element on the heel insert and a corresponding connector element on the heel counter, allowing the attachment to extend around the entire circumference rather than relying on a single mechanical connection point.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the heel insert is made removable for customization, then comfort and fit can be adjusted, but the attachment mechanism may become complex
Solution Approach 1:
The connector elements are designed with resilient portions that allow dynamic engagement and disengagement. The resilient connector portion on the heel insert can flex to engage with the corresponding connector element on the heel counter, providing easy attachment and removal while maintaining a secure connection during wear.
3Ease of operation
If cushioning is added to improve comfort, then the fit can be customized, but the attachment mechanism may become less reliable
Solution Approach 1:
The cushioning member is positioned within the heel insert structure, nested around the connector portion. This allows the cushioning to provide comfort while the connector portion maintains its attachment function, with the cushioning member not interfering with the engagement of the connector elements between the heel insert and heel counter.
Data Source
AI summary
An article of footwear including a sole assembly; an upper attached to the sole assembly; a heel counter on the upper, the heel counter having an upper edge and including a first connector portion that extends along the upper edge; and a heel insert removably attached to the heel counter along its upper edge, the heel insert having a corresponding second connector portion that mates with the first connector portion of the heel counter.