String Guide Module for Footwear Assembly

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing footwear assembly methods, particularly string-pulling systems, are limited in their ability to efficiently and accurately assemble complex footwear models with high uppers and angular variations, relying on manual strength and skill, which results in irregularities and inefficiencies.

Innovation Solution

The String Guide Module, comprising an angular motion articulated arm, handle, retractable support, and string guide roller, allows for adjustable string pulling angles and positions, enabling precise adjustment of shoe uppers to the last without tension lines, using the X-SEWING METHOD FOR ASSEMBLING SHOE UPPERS BY THE TIED STRING SYSTEM.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If manual string pulling is used for assembling footwear, then the process can be performed with simple equipment, but the position of fabric locks becomes irregular and assembly precision deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveequipment simplicityVSAvoidfabric lock position regularity
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

A string guide module is introduced as an intermediary component between the string pulling mechanism and the shoe upper. This module includes guide rollers and positioning elements that direct the string through specific paths, ensuring that fabric locks are formed at regular, predetermined positions during the assembly process

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The string guide module is designed to automatically maintain proper string tension and alignment throughout the pulling process. The guide rollers and positioning elements work together to self-regulate the string path, eliminating the need for continuous manual adjustment while maintaining consistent fabric lock positioning

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Reliability

If multiple cross-stitches are used for footwear with angular variations, then assembly completeness improves, but productivity decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly completenessVSAvoidassembly speed
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The string guide module incorporates adjustable components that can be dynamically reconfigured for different footwear models and angles. The guide rollers and positioning elements can be moved to different locations, allowing a single cross-stitch to be optimized for various angular variations in high-heeled shoes, boots, and other complex footwear geometries

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system allows modification of geometric parameters such as string pulling angle, guide roller position, and tension application points. By changing these parameters, a single cross-stitch configuration can adapt to different footwear models, eliminating the need for multiple stitches while maintaining complete assembly coverage

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Ease of operation

If string pulling angle is fixed, then equipment operation is simplified, but assembly precision for different footwear models deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveequipment operation simplicityVSAvoidshoe upper adjustment precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The string guide module features movable guide rollers and adjustable positioning elements that can be reconfigured for different footwear models. This dynamic adjustability allows the string pulling angle to be optimized for each specific model while maintaining simple automated operation through programmable control

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The guide module is designed as a universal system that can accommodate multiple footwear models and geometries through adjustment mechanisms. A single device configuration can serve multiple functions by repositioning guide elements, eliminating the need for model-specific equipment while maintaining high assembly precision across different footwear types

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP3578071B1String guide module for article of footwear
Publication Date: 2023.09.06 I S A IND DE TECHA E AUTOMACAO LTDA EPP
  • EP3578071B1 patent drawingFigure 1B~2B
  • EP3578071B1 patent drawingFigure 3B~4B
  • EP3578071B1 patent drawingFigure 5B~6B

AI summary

The present application for Patent of Invention describes a string guide module which enables the use of locks to be fully eliminated for adjusting the waist, considerably improving the quality and comfort of the footwear, besides economizing raw materials and improving productivity. The purpose of the object of the invention is to allow for longitudinal, latitudinal and angular adjustment of the pulling vector of the strings, particularly the longitudinal positional adjustment along the shape (F), including modularity characteristics.