Footwear Sole Support Member for Stability and Energy Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing footwear lacks sufficient support and stability, leading to inefficient energy transfer and increased fatigue during walking, jogging, or running, as the feet do not have a stable push-off point, affecting the ability to apply forces effectively on the ground.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of a support member within the sole, such as a resilient metal or composite material, positioned in through-holes to enhance stability and provide spring-like energy, allowing for enhanced support and propulsion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If harder materials or plates are inserted in the sole to enhance rigidity and support, then foot support and stability are improved, but cushioning and comfort in areas like the heel are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The sole is designed with different material characteristics in different areas: harder materials or plates are inserted in specific regions (such as the midfoot) to enhance rigidity and support where needed, while softer cushioning materials are maintained in other areas (such as the heel) to provide comfort and shock absorption. This localized differentiation of material properties resolves the contradiction between support and comfort.
2Ease of manufacture
If the sole structure is simplified without support members, then manufacturing ease is improved, but energy transfer efficiency and propulsion are reduced due to lack of stable push-off point
Solution Approach 1:
The support member is designed as a separate, modular component that can be independently manufactured and then inserted into the sole. This segmentation allows the support member to be produced using optimized processes for its specific function, while the rest of the sole can be manufactured separately. The assembly of these components into the final shoe maintains manufacturing efficiency while incorporating the stability-enhancing support structure needed for optimal energy transfer and propulsion.
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 support member improves stability and reduces fatigue by providing resilient energy, optimizing energy transfer and propulsion, thereby enhancing walking and running efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The support member includes an upper support and a lower support, and the upper support is spaced from the lower support... providing resilient energy... allowing for enhanced support and propulsion
Data Source
Figure 1~2B
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AI summary
An article of footwear is provided and includes an upper and a sole attached to the upper, where the sole has a medial side and a lateral side, and a through-hole extending between the medial side and the lateral side. A support member is positioned in the through-hole of the sole, where the support member includes an upper support and a lower support and where the upper support is spaced from the lower support.