Shoe Sole Heel Segmentation for Cycling and Walking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional cycling shoes are not suitable for walking due to their rigid soles, which cannot absorb shock and are designed for pedaling force transmission, lacking adaptability for different activities.
Innovation Solution
A shoe design featuring a sole with a first heel part and a second heel part that can move relative to each other, with a boundary part allowing independent deformation, enabling effective pedaling force transmission and shock absorption during walking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If the sole is made rigid for transmitting pedaling force, then the force transmission efficiency is improved, but the shock absorption capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The heel part of the sole is divided into a first heel part and a second heel part that can move relative to each other. The first heel part transmits pedaling force while the second heel part absorbs shock during walking, resolving the contradiction between force transmission and shock absorption through functional segmentation.
Solution Approach 2:
The sole transitions from a rigid static structure to a dynamic structure where the second heel part can move relative to the first heel part. This allows the sole to adapt its rigidity based on the activity: rigid during cycling for force transmission, and flexible during walking for shock absorption.
2Productivity
If the sole is made highly stiff for cycling performance, then the pedaling efficiency is improved, but the walking comfort deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The heel part is segmented into two functional parts: the first heel part maintains stiffness for efficient pedaling, while the second heel part provides flexibility and comfort for walking through relative movement and deformation.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the sole have different mechanical properties. The first heel part maintains high stiffness for power transmission, while the second heel part has lower stiffness for comfort, creating local quality variations that satisfy different functional requirements.
3Reliability
If the sole is designed for single activity (cycling), then the cycling performance is improved, but the versatility for other activities deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The shoe sole is designed to perform multiple functions: the first heel part handles cycling-specific force transmission, while the second heel part enables walking comfort through independent deformation. This multi-functionality allows the same shoe to be suitable for both cycling and walking activities.
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic relationship between the first and second heel parts allows the sole to adapt to different activity requirements. During cycling, the structure remains relatively rigid for power transmission; during walking, the second heel part deforms independently to provide comfort, enabling versatility across activities.
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 shoe provides a versatile solution for both cycling and walking by allowing the second heel part to deform independently, enhancing comfort and functionality for various activities.
Implementation Method 1
the boundary part is provided between the first heel part and the second heel part such that the first heel part and the second heel part are movable relative to one another
Implementation Method 2
the second heel part can deform independently of the first heel part so that the first heel part can transmit a pedaling force to a pedal and the second heel part absorb the contact force during walking
Data Source
AI summary
A shoe basically includes an upper and a sole. The sole is attached to the upper. The sole includes an outsole and a first midsole. The first midsole has a fore part, a first heel part, a second heel part and a boundary part. The first heel part is at least partly disposed along a longitudinal centerline of the shoe and configured to support a center part of a heel. The second heel part is disposed laterally outward of the longitudinal centerline of the shoe and configured to support an outer part of the heel. The boundary part is provided between the first heel part and the second heel part such that the first heel part and the second heel part are movable relative to one another.