Spring Lock Mechanism for Interchangeable Footwear Uppers

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing footwear designs restrict the range of styles available due to insecure and cumbersome attachment methods between the upper and lower portions, limiting interchangeability and causing soiling and wear issues.

Innovation Solution

A spring lock mechanism around the perimeter of the sole, manually operated by buttons, engages with loops on the upper portion to provide a secure, interchangeable, and durable attachment suitable for various footwear styles, allowing multiple looks from a single sole.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If U-shaped rings are manually attached to the bottom of the sole using a tool, then the upper and lower portions can be connected, but the attachment becomes cumbersome and requires manual assembly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveattachment securityVSAvoidassembly convenience

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The spring lock mechanism automatically engages with the U-shaped rings when the upper portion is placed on the sole, eliminating the need for manual assembly with tools. The spring-loaded design self-secures the attachment by snapping into place, making the process as simple as pressing the upper onto the sole.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The attachment system is divided into separate functional components: the spring lock mechanism embedded in the sole, the U-shaped rings attached to the upper portion, and the button-operated release system. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, improving both ease of assembly and reliability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If U-shaped rings are attached on the bottom of the sole, then the upper and lower portions can be connected, but the rings become soiled and worn due to contact with the ground

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveattachment securityVSAvoidsoiling and wear

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of attaching the locking mechanism to the bottom of the sole where it would contact the ground, the spring lock mechanism is inverted and positioned on the interior side of the sole. The U-shaped rings engage with this mechanism from below, but the actual locking components remain protected from ground contact, eliminating soiling and wear issues.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

Solution Approach 2:

The spring lock mechanism acts as an intermediary between the U-shaped rings and the sole, providing a secure connection point that is elevated above the ground surface. This intermediary structure transfers the attachment function away from the ground-contacting bottom surface to a protected interior location.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If a single sole is used with interchangeable uppers, then multiple footwear styles can be created, but the attachment method must be both secure and easy to operate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefootwear style varietyVSAvoidattachment and removal convenience

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The spring lock mechanism with button operation allows the wearer to easily attach and remove different upper portions without requiring tools or complex assembly procedures. The self-securing spring design combined with simple button actuation makes the interchangeability process convenient, encouraging users to switch between multiple upper styles.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The spring lock mechanism is designed as a universal attachment system that can accommodate multiple different upper portions with U-shaped rings. The same sole and locking mechanism work with various upper styles, enabling one sole to serve multiple footwear functions and styles.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 offers a secure, durable, and versatile attachment method that increases safety and durability, enabling multiple styles from a single sole, reducing wear and soiling, and enhancing user convenience.

Implementation Method 1

The spring lock systems include a spring, a flexible shaft, a lock and a spring plate

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSpring: Spring

Data Source

PatentUS11457687B2Spring lock mechanism for footwear

Publication Date: 2022.10.04 KUNDANI KUMTA SHAILJA

AI summary

An article of footwear, including one or more interchangeable upper portions, the upper portion including loops on a bottom portion of the upper portion, a sole, the sole having engagement points around a perimeter of the sole, wherein the engagement points in the sole allow the loops to be inserted and/or removed; at least two spring lock systems, the spring lock systems located in the perimeter of the sole, wherein the spring lock systems include a spring, a flexible shaft, a lock and a spring plate, the lock and the spring plate being located in the engagement points, wherein the loops of the one or more upper portions to the sole engage with the lock and spring plate to secure and/or release the loops in position; and two or more sets of buttons on the sole to release or engage the spring lock system.