Running Shoe Sole Structure with Integrated Hollow Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing running shoe sole structures with hollow elements for absorbing horizontal forces during running are limited in design flexibility and cost-effectiveness, as they rely solely on the outsole for deformation, without significant contribution from the midsole, and face issues like premature wear and squeaking.
Innovation Solution
The sole structure integrates the midsole into the formation of hollow elements, with the outsole being the primary deformer, allowing for more design freedom and reduced wear by positioning the outsole effectively, and incorporates features like transverse ribs and rough surfaces to prevent displacement and squeaking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If hollow elements are formed as single-part structures in the outsole only, then manufacturing is simpler, but design flexibility is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The hollow elements are divided into two separate parts: an upper hollow element formed in the midsole and a lower hollow element formed in the outsole. These two parts are assembled together to form the complete hollow element structure, enabling greater design flexibility while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through modular production
Solution Approach 2:
The upper hollow element from the midsole and the lower hollow element from the outsole are nested together during assembly, with the outsole portion positioned within the midsole portion. This nested arrangement allows the two separately manufactured components to combine into a functional whole, achieving both manufacturing ease and design versatility
2Force
If the outsole deforms significantly to absorb horizontal forces, then force absorption is improved, but premature wear occurs at convexities
Solution Approach 1:
The midsole is designed to project downward in the region of the hollow elements before deformation occurs. This pre-positioned projection acts as a cushioning support that prevents the outsole from forming harmful convexities during deformation, thereby protecting against premature wear while maintaining effective force absorption
Solution Approach 2:
The midsole projection is specifically positioned only in the region where hollow elements are located, providing localized support exactly where needed to prevent wear. This localized intervention allows the outsole to deform freely in other areas while protecting critical regions from excessive stress and abrasion
3Reliability
If the midsole projects downward in the hollow element region, then wear is reduced, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The downward projection of the midsole and the formation of the upper hollow element are combined into a single integrated manufacturing process. This merging of functions allows the protective projection and the hollow element structure to be created simultaneously, reducing overall manufacturing complexity while maintaining wear protection benefits
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 design enhances the sole's ability to absorb and distribute running forces effectively, reducing wear and preventing displacement, while allowing for optimized deformation and improved durability and quiet operation.
Implementation Method 1
forces to which the hollow elements are subjected when the runner is running are absorbed by these hollow elements in each case by elastic deformation, with the spacing between their inner surfaces decreasing in the process
Data Source
AI summary
A sole structure for a running shoe is presented having an outsole and a midsole. The sole structure includes a plurality of hollow elements, which are closed off in each case by front flanks and rear flanks, and have spaced-apart upper inner surfaces and lower inner surfaces, that forces to which the hollow elements are subjected when the runner is running are absorbed by these hollow elements in each case with deformation, with the spacing between their inner surfaces decreasing in the process. The upper inner surfaces of the hollow elements are formed on the underside of the midsole, that the lower inner surfaces of the hollow elements are formed on the upper side of the outsole, which is fastened on the underside of the midsole in each case in front of, and behind, the hollow elements, the front flanks and the rear flanks likewise forming part of the outsole.