Waterproof Shoe Membrane Integrated with Insole
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for manufacturing waterproof and vapor-permeable shoes are complex and costly, often requiring additional machines and components, and may not effectively prevent water infiltration between the upper and membrane, leading to increased manufacturing times and costs.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a multilayer lining with a vapor-permeable and waterproof functional layer integrated within the insole, where a peripheral flap of the functional layer is coupled to a support sheet and adhesive material is used to form a waterproof seal, allowing for simplified assembly using traditional shoe manufacturing techniques without additional machinery, reducing pleats and folds that can cause water infiltration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional waterproof shoe manufacturing methods are used with multiple gaskets and sealing bands, then waterproofness is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the waterproof membrane and insole into a single integrated component. The membrane is directly coupled to the insole, eliminating the need for separate gaskets and sealing bands that were traditionally required to prevent water infiltration at the interface between these components.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated membrane-insole assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides waterproofing, vapor permeability, and structural support. This multi-functional design replaces the need for multiple separate components (membrane, insole, gaskets, sealing bands) that each performed specific functions.
2Reliability
If multiple gaskets and sealing components are used to prevent water infiltration, then waterproofness is improved, but manufacturing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
By combining the membrane and insole into one integrated component, the manufacturing process is simplified from multiple assembly steps (attaching membrane, then insole, then gaskets, then sealing bands) to a single component installation, significantly reducing manufacturing time.
Solution Approach 2:
The membrane and insole are pre-coupled together before being installed in the shoe assembly process. This preliminary integration means that during manufacturing, only one component needs to be installed rather than multiple separate components, accelerating the production process.
3Reliability
If additional machines and components are used for waterproof sealing, then waterproofness is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integration of membrane and insole eliminates the need for additional sealing machines and application of separate sealing components. Standard shoe manufacturing equipment can be used without modification, reducing capital investment and operational costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated membrane-insole assembly can be manufactured using standard footwear production techniques and materials, making the process accessible to traditional shoe manufacturers without requiring specialized equipment or processes.
4Ease of manufacture
If folds and pleats are allowed in the upper during assembly, then ease of manufacture is improved, but water infiltration risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The membrane is directly coupled to the insole, creating a continuous waterproof barrier that is not disrupted by folds or pleats in the upper material. This integration ensures that even if the upper has assembly folds, the waterproof path remains intact.
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 method simplifies the manufacturing process, reduces costs, and ensures effective waterproofing and vapor-permeability by eliminating the need for additional seals and machines, while maintaining the quality of the waterproof and vapor-permeable properties of the shoe.
Implementation Method 1
adhesive material is used to form a waterproof seal
Data Source
AI summary
A method for manufacturing a waterproof and vapor-permeable shoe comprising the steps of providing an upper and a lining comprising at least one functional layer of vapor-permeable and waterproof material, providing an insole comprising a functional support sheet of vapor-permeable and waterproof material, coupling the peripheral edge of the functional layer of the lining to the peripheral edge of the functional sheet of the insole by way of a sealing waterproof adhesive so as to shape a sock of vapor-permeable and waterproof material, couple the upper to the outer surface of the lining by way of a vapor-permeable adhesive; and couple a sole to the upper and/or to the lining and/or to the insole.