Segmented Adhesive Applicator Tip for Shoe Sole Bonding
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Solution Overview
Problem
The manufacturing of shoes faces challenges with the application of adhesives, as existing methods and devices often result in excessive adhesive squeeze-out and soiling of the shoe's exterior surfaces, leading to lower yield rates and less-than-desirable mechanical stability in the final product.
Innovation Solution
A controlled adhesive application device and method that uses a curable adhesive applicator with a tip designed to dispense adhesive in a specific pattern, ensuring minimal adhesive is applied to the periphery, reducing overflow and allowing for precise application of a uniform adhesive band along the shoe's sole or upper, thereby preventing adhesive from reaching the exterior surfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a controlled adhesive application device with a specific tip design is used, then adhesive precision and reduction of squeeze-out are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The applicator tip is segmented into multiple zones with different functions: a central dispensing zone with controlled orifices for precise adhesive application, and a peripheral biasing zone that directs adhesive flow away from edges. This segmentation allows each zone to perform its specific function independently, achieving precise adhesive placement while preventing squeeze-out.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the applicator tip are given different properties: the central region has adhesive-dispensing characteristics with controlled flow orifices, while the peripheral region has adhesive-biasing characteristics that promote flow toward the center. This local differentiation of properties enables precise adhesive application in the bonding zone while preventing edge overflow.
2Manufacturing precision
If adhesive is applied in a controlled pattern to prevent squeeze-out, then product quality is improved, but productivity may be reduced due to more careful application
Solution Approach 1:
The applicator tip is designed to automatically bias adhesive flow toward the central region through its geometric configuration and flow characteristics. The device performs the adhesive distribution function autonomously based on its built-in geometric properties, eliminating the need for complex external control systems or manual adjustment during operation, thus maintaining high productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The applicator utilizes changes in adhesive flow parameters (velocity, direction, distribution pattern) that occur naturally as the adhesive passes through the tip's geometric features. By designing the tip geometry to induce favorable flow parameter changes, the system achieves precise adhesive placement without requiring complex active control mechanisms that would reduce productivity.
3Loss of substance
If the applicator angles adhesive toward the central region, then adhesive squeeze-out is reduced, but application complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces complex active mechanical control systems (such as motors, sensors, and feedback mechanisms) with a passive geometric design. The tip's shape and internal flow channels are configured to naturally bias adhesive flow toward the center through geometric constraints and flow dynamics, eliminating the need for complex active control while achieving the same effect.
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
This solution enables high-quality, mechanically stable shoe assembly with minimal steps and reduced adhesive waste, ensuring superior bonding between the sole and upper while maintaining a clean exterior finish.
Implementation Method 1
Some embodiments of the methods and applicators described herein can maintained at an effective application temperature of an adhesive that is about to be dispensed onto the shoe
Implementation Method 2
an adhesive formulated and blended for the permanent formation of mechanically stable articles, in particular, the attachment of a sole to a shoe upper
Data Source
AI summary
This document relates to adhesive application devices and methods for applying an adhesive on a shoe during manufacturing.