Problem and Solution

Problem: Walking for long periods of time can cause pain not just in feet but also in the leg or even hips. The source of the problem can be attributed to the constant shock forces when the ankle strikes the ground.



Solution: We decided to make shock absorbent material in the soles of shoes that can soften the force on the ankles and feet.

Evolutionary Idea

• Interconnected structure
• Space Efficient
• Manages compression

ConceptualPrecedent

Technical Precedent

Jason's Initial Sketches

Yuanbin's Initial Sketches

Initial Idea

Final Idea Sketch

Prototype Pieces

First Prototype

Feedback from Mid review

• Use more stronger and more flexible material
• Increase the amount of hexagons used in groups to absorb more shock
• Fill up the hexagons on the entire sole
• Stack hexagons on top of each other to like honeycombs to take advantage of their shape

Failed Final Product Sketch

Failed Final Product

Hexagon Stacking Pattern (Rhino)

Honeycomb Piece (Rhino)

Failed Final Product

Laser Cut Honeycomb Pieces

The pieces were not flexible / compressible. They could not absorb shock and were stiff despite the fact it was cardboard. Also made the insole very lofty.

New Final Product Idea

Silicon Honeycomb

Silicone Honeycombs

Final Prototype Iteration

Finished Final Prototype

Foam Sheet

Silicon Hexagons

Video of prototype in function

Applying Feedback

• We used silicone rubber for the hexagons which is easily compressible while durable and not able to be ripped easily
• We filled up the entire sole with "honeycombs"
• We placed the honeycombs side by side
• We decided not to stack the hexagons because it made the sole unstable, allowing it to sway forward and backward or side to side easily with the extra joints; by not doing it, the sole can basically only compress up and down