What it does
Resole is a modular insole system with air cells that self-inflate to fill foot deformities. It improves balance and comfort without costly scanning or tools. Inspired by Korean socks and sports gear, it offers a low-cost, intuitive fit for all environments.
Your inspiration
The project began by studying foot deformities in diabetic patients and children with congenital disabilities. The team was especially inspired by the stories of patients unable to wear standard shoes, which often led to pressure ulcers or gait issues. Traditional Korean socks (beoseon) influenced the wearable structure, and Reebok’s air-pump shoes inspired the adaptive inflation mechanism. The team aimed to create an intuitive and empathetic design that could offer both medical function and daily comfort without stigma.
How it works
Resole is a modular insole with inflatable air-cell layers that dynamically fill gaps caused by foot deformities or loss of tissue. Users with damaged or irregular feet—such as diabetic or Hansen’s disease patients—inflate the insole after wearing it, allowing air to flow into specific zones based on internal resistance differences. This compensates for missing or asymmetrical foot structures, restoring pressure distribution and walking stability. Unlike pre-molded orthotics, Resole adapts in real-time to the wearer’s needs and can be reused, readjusted, or moved between footwear. A zipper closure enhances ease of use, and the system is divided into upper, midfoot, and lower sections to target different regions. It offers a low-cost, personalized alternative to rigid insoles, supporting improved gait, mobility, and dignity for those living with chronic foot disabilities.
Design process
Resole began with extensive interviews and research into the needs of individuals with chronic foot damage, including diabetic neuropathy and Hansen’s disease. The team identified a major gap in affordable, customizable foot support—most orthotic solutions are expensive, fixed in shape, and hard to access. The team ideated an air-cell concept based on dynamic inflation to self-adapt to irregular feet. Initial sketches focused on cell division by foot zones, with pressure mapping used to refine air channel resistance. Physical prototypes were developed using 3D printing and fabric welding to test inflation control and comfort. Simulations guided the insole’s internal architecture, and zipper closures were added to improve usability. Iterative testing with varied foot shapes validated the system’s adaptability. Design decisions focused on inclusivity, mobility, and dignity, aiming to support users in low-resource or aging communities. The result is a low-cost, reusable, and easily manufactured insole that enables movement and independence.
How it is different
Our team began with interviews and research involving diabetic patients, children with deformities, and orthotic specialists. We examined causes of foot deformities, their impact on gait, and barriers to current treatments. Using low-fidelity prototypes, we tested inflation logic using sponges, air bladders, and 3D-printed molds. Feedback from users revealed the importance of partial inflation and comfort during movement. Inspired by Korean textile forms, we refined the visual and tactile elements to ensure user dignity and usability. Final prototypes incorporated segmented air cells and adjustable valves, providing both affordability and technical performance. The project is entirely self-developed by our team, with all design, modeling, and testing done in-house.
Future plans
We plan to conduct usability testing with actual patients and explore medical partnerships to refine the inflation mechanism. Further material testing is needed to validate long-term durability and pressure resistance. We are also exploring an open-source model for the air-inflation unit to allow localized production in low-income settings. Eventually, we hope to collaborate with NGOs or public health agencies to deploy Resole in areas with limited access to orthopedic care.
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