The Influence of Materials on Footwear Behaviour: A Finite Element Simulation Study

Abstract

The objective of this study was to analyse the influence of materials and their position within the upper assembly on the behaviour of casual footwear using finite element simulation tools. The study was carried out on three models of casual footwear, which are identical in terms of design lines, varying only in the materials of the upper assembly, namely calfskin leather (M1), knitted fabric (M2), and combination of knitted fabric and calfskin leather (M3). The footwear models were designed according to the design constraints specific to casual footwear. The foot was reconstructed based on the shoe last obtained based on anthropometric data. Material definition, 3D models editing, setting up analysis conditions, and constraints were performed using the Ansys 17.2 software. Gait biomechanics were taken into account to define the loading model, force distribution, force values, and constraints. The study evaluates footwear behaviour in terms of directional deformation (Z axis), equivalent von Mises stress, and equivalent elastic strain distribution. This paper explores a methodology that has the potential to enhance the footwear design and manufacturing process, providing designers with information about the deformations and stress distribution on upper parts of the footwear product.

Product Design Trends within the Footwear Industry: A Review

“…This contributes to the advancement of biometrics and improves the accuracy of similar methods. Kim et al [96] aimed to enhance the design and manufacturing processes of footwear by analyzing the effect of materials used for the upper part of casual shoes during walking. Finite element simulation tools were utilized to accurately assess strain and stress values.…”