Sports Shoe Upper Membrane Zoning for Entry and Waterproof Fit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing shoe uppers, particularly in sports shoes, face challenges with bulkiness due to membrane materials, leading to difficult instep entry and potential slippage during use, while compromising on comfort and waterproofness.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating two distinct membrane regions in the shoe upper with different sets of characteristics, such as varying elasticity, vapor permeability, and waterproofness, to tailor performance attributes, enhance comfort, and improve durability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If membrane materials are used to provide waterproofness and breathability, then waterproofness and breathability are improved, but the upper becomes bulky and difficult to step into
Solution Approach 1:
The upper is divided into multiple regions with different membrane characteristics. The instep region uses a first membrane with higher elasticity to facilitate entry, while other regions use a second membrane with lower elasticity to maintain waterproofness and prevent slippage. This segmentation allows each region to be optimized for its specific function.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the upper are assigned different membrane properties tailored to their functional requirements. The instep area receives a more elastic membrane for ease of entry, while the heel and toe areas receive less elastic membranes for stability and slip prevention. This local differentiation resolves the contradiction between entry ease and waterproof performance.
2Reliability
If membrane materials are used to ensure waterproofness, then waterproofness is improved, but comfort is compromised due to bulkiness
Solution Approach 1:
The upper is segmented into regions with different membrane densities. Less elastic membranes are concentrated in critical waterproof zones (heel, toe, bite line) while more elastic membranes are used in comfort-critical zones (instep, ankle). This segmentation maintains waterproofness where needed while improving comfort where flexibility is required.
Solution Approach 2:
Each region of the upper is assigned membrane quality appropriate to its function. High waterproofness membranes are placed in water-exposure-prone areas, while high-elasticity membranes are placed in areas requiring flexibility and comfort. This local optimization resolves the contradiction between waterproofness and comfort.
3Ease of manufacture
If uniform membrane characteristics are used throughout the upper, then manufacturing is simplified, but performance is compromised in specific regions
Solution Approach 1:
The upper is divided into standardized zones (instep, heel, toe, ankle) that can be manufactured separately with different membrane specifications. This segmentation allows each zone to be optimized for its performance requirements while maintaining relatively simple manufacturing processes through modular construction.
Solution Approach 2:
Different membrane types are assigned to different regions based on performance needs. The instep region uses elastic membranes for comfort, while the heel and toe use rigid membranes for stability. This local differentiation improves overall performance while the modular approach keeps manufacturing manageable.
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 superior functionality, comfort, and versatility by adapting to environmental conditions and user needs, ensuring a snug fit, reduced slippage, and optimized protection and ventilation.
Implementation Method 1
the first membrane region (1) is more elastic than the second membrane region (2)
Implementation Method 2
The first and the second set of characteristics include at least one of elasticity, vapor permeability and waterproofness
Implementation Method 3
the first and the second set of characteristics include at least one of elasticity, vapor permeability and waterproofness
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to an upper for an article of footwear, in particular for a sports shoe. The upper comprises a first membrane region having a first set of characteristics, and second membrane region located in an area of the upper which is different from the first membrane region and having a second set of characteristics, a first value of at least one of the characteristics of the second set of characteristics being different from a second value of the corresponding characteristic of the first set of characteristics. The present invention also relates to shoe, in particular for a sports shoe, with such an upper.