A New Inspiration in Bionic Shock Absorption Midsole Design and Engineering

Abstract

Inspired by the performance of the ostrich in terms of loading and high-speed moving ability, the purpose of this study was to design a structure and material on the forefoot and heel of the middle soles of sports shoes based on the high cushioning quality of the ostrich toe pad by applying bionic engineering technology. The anatomical dissection method was used to analyze the ostrich foot characteristics. The structure and material of the bionic shock absorption midsole were designed according to the principles of bionic engineering and reverse engineering. F-Scan and numerical simulation were used to evaluate the bionic shock absorption midsole performance. The results showed that the bionic shock absorption midsole decreased the peak pressure (6.04–12.27%), peak force (8.62–16.03%), pressure–time integral (3.06–12.66%), and force–time integral (4.06–10.58%) during walking and brisk walking. In this study, the biomechanical effects to which the bionic shock absorption midsole structure was subjected during walking and brisk walking exercises were analyzed. The bionic midsole has excellent shock resistance. It is beneficial for the comfort of the foot during exercise and might reduce the risk of foot injuries during exercise.