Asymmetric Competition Footwear for Hong Kong Olympic Fencing Team

Overview

Asymmetric footwear is developed for fencing athletes to suit the different movements and pressure distribution of two feet during training and competition.

Technical name of innovation

Asymmetric Competition Footwear for Hong Kong Olympic Fencing Team

Research completion

2017

Commercialisation opportunities

Technology licensing

Problem addressed

Fencing is with unique biomechanical features on foot. Lunge leg and support leg have difference movements and pressure distribution, requiring different design of shoe for lunge and support leg. Current footwear for fencing athletes is identical for both feet and they cannot fully support athletes’ movement. This project proposes to develop asymmetric footwear to match the requirements of fencing.

Innovation

Design and development of cushions/ inserts asymmetrically according to biomechanical characteristics of fencing
Application of ergonomic in the research and development
Evaluation and application of materials with good abrasion resistance and mechanical properties such as TPU and PEBA

Key impact

Enhancing comfort and reducing risk of injury of athletes

Award

Bronze Award in the 1st Asia Exhibition of Inventions Hong Kong (2018)
Silver Medal in the 45th International Exhibition of Inventions of Geneva (2017)

Application

Fencing training and competition

Patent

16/487,449
201710096678.8

Video

Website

The Hong Kong Research Institute of Textiles and Apparel (HKRITA)

Established in 2006, The Hong Kong Research Institute of Textiles and Apparel (HKRITA) is funded by the Innovation and Technology Commission of the HKSAR government, and hosted by The Hong Kong Polytechnic University.

HKRITA has achieved research deliverables over the years around our research clusters targeting in sustainability, industry advancement and social benefits through our centre-owned research teams and laboratories as well as collaborations with industry partners and institutions.

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