Running Shoe Sole With Independently Deflectable Reinforcing Members
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing shoe soles, particularly in running shoes, lack ergonomic design that accommodates the natural anatomy of the foot, leading to restricted movement, discomfort, and increased risk of injury due to insufficient support in the toe-off area and high rigidity.
Innovation Solution
A sole with independently deflectable reinforcing members extending in the front half, providing tailored stiffness and cushioning to support anatomical landmarks, allowing controlled movement and reducing stress on joints.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If shank elements, torsion systems, stiffening plates are used to improve stability, then foot stability is improved, but shoe rigidity increases leading to reduced ergonomics and natural movement
Solution Approach 1:
The sole is divided into multiple independent reinforcing members (first, second, third, fourth members) that can deflect independently. This segmentation allows each member to respond individually to forces during the gait cycle, providing stability while maintaining natural foot movement and ergonomics.
Solution Approach 2:
The reinforcing members are designed to be dynamically deflectable rather than statically rigid. They can change their rigidity state based on applied forces, being stiff when needed for stability and flexible when needed for natural movement, thus resolving the contradiction between stability and ergonomics.
2Stability of the object's composition
If stabilizing elements are located primarily in the midfoot region, then midfoot stability is improved, but support in the toe-off area becomes insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The reinforcing members extend in multiple directions and positions within the sole structure, not just in the midfoot region. The members are positioned to provide support across different zones including the toe-off area, distributing stability functions across multiple spatial dimensions rather than concentrating them in one location.
3Ease of manufacture
If a fixed degree of movement is allowed to simplify construction, then manufacturing is easier, but natural foot movement is restricted leading to discomfort and injury risk
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of fixing the degree of movement, the reinforcing members are designed to dynamically adapt their rigidity based on applied forces. This allows the sole to provide appropriate support while accommodating natural foot movement variations, resolving the contradiction between manufacturing simplicity and movement freedom.
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 reinforcing members enhance biomechanical protection by supporting key foot structures, reducing fatigue and injury risk through controlled movement and improved stability during the gait cycle.
Implementation Method 1
the reinforcing members are adapted to be independently deflected by forces acting on the sole during a gait cycle
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 1c~1d
Figure 1e~1f
AI summary
The present invention relates to a sole for a shoe, in particular for a running shoe. The present invention also relates to a shoe, in particular a running shoe, comprising such a sole. The present invention further relates to a method for the manufacture of such items. A sole for a shoe, in particular a running shoe, is provided which comprises at least two reinforcing members extending in a front half of the sole, wherein at least a first one of the reinforcing members further extends rearwardly beyond the midfoot area and into a heel area of the sole and wraps up to a posterior portion of the ankle region.