Layer Jamming for Variable Stiffness Shoes

In this work we presented the application of the layer jamming technology as variable stiffness mechanism for tech approach shoes. This scenario leads to the development of a novel kind of layer jamming system, with significant stiffness variation, yet minimized shape-locking effect. The system performances have been evaluated through subsequent experimental tests. This also allowed to better understand the behavior of shoes with different features. The results led to the identification of solutions with satisfactory performances with respect to target values and with the potential to be extended also to shoes with different requirements. The generality of the final considerations drawn for the examined application could lead to a novel way to exploit the layer jamming technology in different scenarios.