Advanced technologies for shoe sole production

Abstract

Advanced technologies for modelling and production are an important part in the whole process of product manufacturing. These advancements have changed the way of product development and play an important role in customization. In the footwear industry, as in any other industry, the use of these technologies is widely spread. Footwear comfort is one of the main selection criteria for purchase. Considering this fact, a case study of different steps for shoe designing according to individual foot shape will be presented. Taking into consideration the aesthetics of the sole and in a more sustainable view, through topological optimization reducing of material wastage for sole production will be presented. By means of the topological optimization in the shoe design process, sole optimization is realized. As a part of personalization, feet’s plantar pressure maps taken from 1 participant gave a better explanation of weight distribution of each foot. Following, sole personalization according the plantar pressure maps for each foot gives the possibility to obtain the best least material design according to the feet’s pressure while maintaining biomechanical performance.

Product Design Trends within the Footwear Industry: A Review

“…Spahiu et al [108] presented a case study for shoe sole design based on the specific geometry of the wearer's foot. Through customized design and topological optimization to control sole pressure, this approach achieves material savings in shoe production while ensuring optimal aesthetics and performance.…”