Winter Shoe Upper Air Gap Thermal Insulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional winter shoes with thermo-insulation layers directly attached to the internal surface of the upper fail to effectively protect feet from cold temperatures due to the lack of insulation against external cold conditions, leading to incomplete thermal protection and discomfort.
Innovation Solution
The manufacturing process involves creating a thin air gap between the upper and the thermo-insulation layer by attaching the insulation layer only at two points, allowing air to act as an insulator and enhancing thermal protection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the thermo-insulation covering layer is directly joined to the internal surface of the upper, then the structure is simple and manufacturing is easy, but the thermal insulation performance is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces air as an intermediary substance between the upper and the thermo-insulation covering layer. This air layer acts as a thermal barrier, preventing direct heat transfer from the foot to the external cold environment. The air gap is created by suspending the covering layer at a distance from the upper surface, transforming air from a passive filler into an active thermal insulation mediator that significantly enhances the overall thermal protection of the shoe.
2Device complexity
If the thermo-insulation covering layer is directly joined to the internal surface of the upper, then the structure is simple, but the thermal protection against external cold conditions is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the thermal insulation system into three distinct components: the upper, the air gap layer, and the thermo-insulation covering layer. This segmentation creates a multi-layer thermal barrier system where each layer contributes to the overall insulation performance. The air gap segment acts as a separate insulating element between the upper and the covering layer, effectively blocking cold temperature penetration and enhancing thermal protection without requiring complex integration.
3Ease of manufacture
If the thermo-insulation covering layer is directly joined to the internal surface of the upper, then the manufacturing process is traditional and simple, but the foot comfort in long-term use is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The air layer serves as a thermal mediator that maintains optimal temperature conditions between the foot and the external environment during prolonged use. This intermediary air gap prevents direct thermal conduction through the upper material, ensuring consistent thermal comfort over time. The covering layer remains suspended rather than directly attached, allowing the air mediator to continuously perform its thermal regulation function throughout extended wearing periods.
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 significantly improves thermal insulation by maintaining a layer of air between the insulation and the shoe's internal surface, providing better foot comfort and protection against cold temperatures.
Implementation Method 1
a thin empty space is provided between the internal surface of the upper and the covering layer, and is inevitably filled with a 'veil' of air that is capable of ensuring a good thermo-insulation action
Data Source
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AI summary
A manufacturing process of winter shoes, wherein the upper of said shoe is internally covered with a layer of thermo-insulation fabric suitable for entirely surrounding the foot of the user, as well as capable of being slightly detached from the internal surface of the upper, in such a way to favor the formation of an intermediate empty space suitable for generating an additional thermal insulation for the foot.