Snowboard Boot Lacing Segmentation for Fit Stability
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing snowboarding boot designs lack adequate flexibility and stability, particularly in the lacing system and upper portion, which can lead to discomfort and reduced performance during maneuvers.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a threading layer with thread groups on the medial and lateral sides, a connecting layer, and a harness system that includes lace receiving members and elastic portions to enhance flexibility and stability, allowing for better fit and support.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional lacing system is used in snowboarding boots, then the boot provides basic closure function, but the boot lacks adequate flexibility and stability during maneuvers
Solution Approach 1:
The lacing system is divided into multiple thread groups (first thread group on medial side, second thread group on lateral side) with corresponding lace receiving members distributed across the upper. This segmentation allows independent adjustment of different regions, providing localized flexibility while maintaining overall stability through coordinated tension distribution.
Solution Approach 2:
The lacing system incorporates elastic portions that can dynamically adjust to foot movement and flexion. The elastic material allows the boot to adapt its tension characteristics during maneuvers, providing flexibility when needed while maintaining stability through elastic recovery.
2Reliability
If the upper portion is made rigid for stability, then the boot provides support, but the boot becomes uncomfortable and reduces performance
Solution Approach 1:
Different portions of the upper are constructed with varying degrees of rigidity and flexibility. The base layer and threading layer provide structural support in critical areas, while elastic portions and strategic gap placements allow flexibility in regions requiring movement, creating a gradient of mechanical properties that balances stability and comfort.
Solution Approach 2:
The upper combines multiple materials with different mechanical properties including elastic materials, rigid structural layers, and flexible threading materials. This composite construction allows the boot to exhibit both stable and comfortable characteristics in different regions simultaneously.
3Reliability
If pressure is concentrated in specific areas for secure fit, then the boot provides support, but the boot causes discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The lacing system distributes pressure across multiple discrete thread groups and lace receiving members rather than concentrating force in single points. The medial and lateral thread groups spread tension across different anatomical regions, reducing peak pressure while maintaining secure fit through cumulative effect.
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 improved flexibility and stability, allowing for better performance during snowboarding maneuvers by distributing pressure evenly and enhancing the overall fit of the boot.
Implementation Method 1
The lace elements include loops. In addition, the lace elements extend through the channels. The loops are positioned to extend outward from upper portions of the channels.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
An article of footwear for use in sporting activities such as snowboarding is disclosed. The article of footwear comprises a base layer (702) configured to form an upper (102) and a threading layer (704) including at least one thread group (711-718) disposed on the base layer (702) in a midfoot portion of the upper (102). The threading layer (704) is bonded to the base layer (702) through a connecting layer (740). The connecting layer (740) includes a first portion (742, 744) which is configured to cover the threading layer (704) and a second portion (746) which is configured to extend away from the threading parameter of the threading layer (704).