Spherical Support Elements in Footwear Midsole
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional athletic footwear sole structures lack sufficient support and cushioning, particularly in areas like the heel and forefoot, which can lead to discomfort and reduced performance during ambulatory activities.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of a support assembly with spherical support elements positioned between an upper and lower plate in the midsole, comprising inner and outer spherical members with apertures for enhanced flexibility and stability, providing additional cushioning and support by distributing pressure uniformly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional polymer foam materials are used in the midsole, then the footwear provides basic cushioning through cellular compression, but the support and shock absorption are insufficient, particularly in high-stress areas like the heel and forefoot
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the midsole into multiple functional layers: an upper plate, a lower plate, and multiple spherical support elements positioned between them. This segmentation allows each component to serve a specific function - the plates provide structural framework while the spherical elements provide localized shock absorption and support, resolving the contradiction between needing stronger support and maintaining structural simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines different materials and structures - polymer foam plates with spherical support elements made of resilient material - to create a composite midsole system. This composite approach enables the footwear to achieve superior support and cushioning properties that neither component could provide alone, while maintaining overall structural efficiency
2Reliability
If conventional polymer foam materials are used in the midsole, then the footwear maintains a simple layered structure, but the cushioning and shock absorption capabilities are insufficient, leading to discomfort during ambulatory activities
Solution Approach 1:
The midsole is segmented into functional components (upper plate, lower plate, spherical elements) that work together to provide reliable cushioning. The spherical elements are distributed at strategic locations to ensure consistent shock absorption across different foot positions, enhancing reliability without excessive complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent modifies the physical parameters of the midsole by introducing spherical elements with specific size, material properties, and spatial distribution. These parameter changes enhance cushioning performance by providing controlled compression and rebound characteristics, improving reliability while maintaining manageable structural complexity
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 use of spherical support elements enhances foot comfort and performance by improving shock absorption and reducing ground reaction forces, thereby providing better support and cushioning across various foot areas.
Implementation Method 1
The polymer foam materials of the midsole may also absorb energy when compressed during ambulatory activities
Implementation Method 2
the spherical support elements enhances foot comfort and performance by improving shock absorption and reducing ground reaction forces
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5
AI summary
An article of footwear (10) includes an upper (12) and a sole assembly (14) having an upper plate (28) and a lower plate (30) spaced from the upper plate. At least one spherical support element (32) is positioned between the upper plate and the lower plate. Each spherical element includes an inner spherical member and an outer spherical member, with the inner spherical member (34) being positioned within the outer spherical member (36) .