Japanese running shoe brand Asics has partnered with French 3D software developer Dassault Systèmes on an experimental new project that will 3D print personalized insoles (or sockliners) to suit individual foot shapes.
Asics has named the new service “Asics Personalization Studio”, describing it as an “ultra-compact factory”, located in the grounds of Dassault Systèmes’ headquarters in Vélizy-Villacoublay, just outside Paris.
At the studio, Asics is planning to use Dassault Systèmes’ modeling and simulation technology to design the shape of insoles based on individual foot shape data modeled and simulated on the tech company’s 3D Experience platform.
The two companies say this will allow for “on-demand manufacturing of shoe-parts to meet the exact specifications of any user”.
Based on each user’s foot shape data and preferences, Asics will use Dassault Systèmes’ modeling and simulation technology along with its own proprietary knowledge of sports and physical movement to algorithmically predict the appropriate shape of the insole.
Advanced 3D printing technology will then create the insole using a thick lattice structure made from a highly flexible material layered to provide breathability and softness. The exact level of softness can be varied for any part of the foot, which aids physical recovery by reducing strain, while also improving performance.
The plan is to use the French facility as a testing ground before moving them to Asics' Personalization Studio in Japan for further testing in 2025. The two companies hope that the tech will one day be applied to other footwear products besides insoles.
“We are delighted to collaborate with Dassault Systèmes on the Asics Personalization Studio,” says Mitsuyuki Tominaga, president and COO of Asics. “Our partnership leverages the advanced technology and expertise of two industry-leading companies to provide optimal value to each customer, helping them live healthier, happier lives with products that respond to their individual needs.”
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