Shoe bottom cleansing apparatus

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current solutions for cleaning the bottom of athletic shoes are inadequate, as they are not easily accessible during gameplay, often require manual intervention, and do not effectively address the accumulation of dirt and debris, leading to reduced grip, unsanitary conditions, and discomfort. Additionally, existing solutions are not customizable, do not secure valuables, and are not machine washable.

Innovation Solution

A shoe bottom cleansing apparatus with a cleansing portion and attachment member that can be removably attached to the shoe, providing a large surface area for cleaning and customizable designs, while also incorporating features like elastic edges, pouches for valuables, and secure attachment mechanisms to prevent debris accumulation and improve hygiene.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a cleaning device is attached to the shoe, then cleaning effectiveness is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecleaning effectivenessVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The cleaning device is divided into separate components: a cleaning member with cleaning material and an attachment member with fastening elements. This segmentation allows the cleaning material to be replaced independently without replacing the entire device, simplifying the overall system while maintaining cleaning effectiveness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The attachment member is designed with fastening elements that can securely attach to various shoe types and configurations. The cleaning device serves multiple functions: cleaning the shoe bottom, preventing debris accumulation, and maintaining grip without requiring complex mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If cleaning material is placed on the shoe, then cleaning accessibility is improved, but cleaning material durability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecleaning accessibilityVSAvoidcleaning material durability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDuration of action of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The cleaning member is designed to be removable and replaceable, transforming the cleaning material from a static, permanent component to a dynamic, interchangeable element. This allows the cleaning material to be replaced when worn or contaminated, maintaining cleaning effectiveness while preserving the durable attachment member.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The cleaning material on the cleaning member can be discarded when it becomes worn or contaminated, and a fresh cleaning member can be attached to the reusable attachment member. This separates the consumable cleaning material from the durable mounting structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #34Discarding and recovering

3Area of stationary object

If a large cleaning surface is provided, then cleaning coverage is improved, but device size increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecleaning surface areaVSAvoiddevice size
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSLength of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The cleaning member is positioned on the upper surface of the shoe, utilizing the vertical dimension and shoe topography rather than extending horizontally. This allows the cleaning surface to conform to the shoe's contours, providing adequate cleaning area without significantly increasing the device's overall footprint or length.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Data Source

PatentUS10779706B1Shoe bottom cleansing apparatus
Publication Date: 2020.09.22 STOMP PATENT LLC
  • US10779706B1 patent drawing
  • US10779706B1 patent drawing
  • US10779706B1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure is directed to an apparatus, system and method for efficiently and rapidly cleaning the bottom of a shoe. The system includes a base having a plurality of alternating, complementary shaped cleansing portions separated by grooves. The configuration of the cleansing portions provides for a sturdy and efficient device for cleaning the bottom of a shoe.