Shoe Upper Lining with Heel Seam for Waterproof Coverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current shoe upper designs with waterproof linings often fail to provide full coverage, leading to water ingress and discomfort due to stitching and complex constructions, which are also labor-intensive and costly.
Innovation Solution
A shoe upper with a seamless, stretchable upper lining featuring two edge sections connected by a vertically oriented seam in the heel area, spaced to minimize friction and blisters, combined with a knit or woven textile layer and a waterproof membrane for complete foot coverage and durability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a waterproof lining is positioned on the inner side of the upper material, then waterproof protection is achieved and the lining is subject to less abrasion, but the lining does not provide full coverage across the whole area of the foot, allowing water to enter in uncovered areas
Solution Approach 1:
The upper lining is divided into two separate sections (first upper lining section and second upper lining section) that are positioned on opposite sides of the foot. These sections are connected by a seam in the heel area, allowing each section to be optimally positioned for waterproof coverage while maintaining structural integrity. This segmentation enables complete foot coverage without requiring a single continuous piece that would be difficult to position and attach.
2Reliability
If the lining extends completely over the foot to prevent water ingress, then full waterproof coverage is achieved, but stitching and seams are required which cause discomfort to the wearer
Solution Approach 1:
The seam connecting the two upper lining sections is specifically positioned in the heel area, which is less sensitive to seam placement compared to other areas of the foot. This local positioning strategy allows the seam to be placed in an area where it causes minimal discomfort while still achieving complete waterproof coverage. The heel area naturally tolerates seam placement better than the toe or instep areas.
3Reliability
If a circular-knitted sock construction is used to provide complete foot coverage, then full waterproof protection and seamless construction are achieved, but the construction becomes labour intensive and very expensive
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a single complex circular-knitted sock construction, the invention divides the upper lining into two separate sections that can be manufactured independently using standard cutting and sewing processes. These sections are then attached to opposite sides of the footwear upper and connected by a seam in the heel area. This approach maintains complete foot coverage and waterproof protection while significantly simplifying the manufacturing process and reducing labor requirements compared to a seamless circular-knitted construction.
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 solution provides enhanced comfort, reduced risk of blisters, and complete waterproofing while being cost-effective and simpler to manufacture, offering a versatile and durable shoe upper construction.
Implementation Method 1
combined with a knit or woven textile layer and a waterproof membrane for complete foot coverage and durability
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a shoe upper comprising an upper lining (300). The upper lining comprises two edge sections (130) and a seam (235, 236, 335) located at a medial and/or lateral side of the shoe upper in a heel area (120, 220, 320). The seam connects the two edge sections.