Work Shoe Sole With Compressible Insert for Impact Absorption
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current work footwear soles are rigid and uncomfortable due to limited soft damping action, primarily because of the limited flexibility of polyurethane midsoles, which are necessary for safety but not designed for prolonged use without adequate cushioning.
Innovation Solution
A sole design featuring a rubber tread layer combined with a polyurethane midsole that includes windows for a compressible cushioning insert, allowing for improved flexibility and comfort through elastic deformation, while maintaining traction and resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a polyurethane midsole is used to ensure safety and structural integrity, then the sole maintains adequate strength and protection, but the sole becomes rigid and uncomfortable for prolonged use
Solution Approach 1:
The midsole is divided into multiple zones with different properties: a rigid polyurethane base structure for strength, and a compressible cushioning insert with granular material for comfort. This segmentation allows each zone to perform its specific function independently.
Solution Approach 2:
The sole combines polyurethane material with a compressible cushioning insert containing granular material (such as rubber granules or plastic particles). This composite structure integrates the strength of polyurethane with the cushioning properties of the granular material.
2Reliability
If the polyurethane midsole thickness is increased to improve cushioning, then impact absorption improves, but the flexibility and elastic behavior of the sole deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The cushioning insert is positioned specifically in the heel area where impact absorption is most needed, rather than uniformly distributing material throughout the entire midsole. This localized approach provides targeted cushioning while preserving overall sole flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The cushioning insert is made with a porous structure containing granular material that can compress and deform. This porous configuration allows the material to absorb impact energy while maintaining flexibility and elastic recovery.
3Strength
If a rubber tread layer is used to provide traction and resistance, then the sole gains grip and durability, but the overall weight and complexity of the sole assembly increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rubber tread layer incorporates a porous structure with voids and cavities that reduce material usage while maintaining traction surfaces. This porous configuration decreases weight while preserving the grip and durability functions.
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 design enhances user comfort by providing better cushioning and flexibility, addressing the rigidity issues of existing soles, and is cost-effective and simple to manufacture.
Implementation Method 1
an intermediate layer or midsole (3), made of polyurethane, molded on or around the lower or tread layer (2)... at least one cushioning insert (5), housed at least partially in the at least one first housing zone HZ1... which is elastically yielding and compressible under the user's weight
Implementation Method 2
a lower or tread layer (2), made of rubber, which includes or delimits a lower surface (2a) designed, in use, to come in contact at least partially with the external environment or with the ground
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The present invention concerns a sole for footwear, particularly suitable for use in the production of footwear, for example for work, sports, orthopedic, running, walking or trekking. The present invention also concerns a footwear, in particular a work, sports, orthopedic, running, walking or trekking footwear which includes the above-mentioned sole. Furthermore, the present invention also concerns a mold for obtaining a sole for footwear and a method for obtaining the aforementioned sole for footwear.