Weaver Therapeutic Shoes by Pear and Mulberry |
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| DESIGN DETAILS | |||||
| DESIGN NAME: Weaver PRIMARY FUNCTION: Therapeutic Shoes INSPIRATION: It was inspired by the structural properties of hollow-loose knitting, commonly seen in textiles and chainmail, which achieve varying stiffness and stretch in different directions. This paradox of support and flexibility guided our parametric approach, where 3D scanning and computational optimization enabled customized footcare solutions. UNIQUE PROPERTIES / PROJECT DESCRIPTION: This project is a pioneering therapeutic shoe system that leverages computational design and 3D printing to provide personalized foot care for children aged 8-14. Unlike conventional shoes, We|aver+ integrates parametric modeling, pressure mapping, and material anisotropy to create a tailored support-comfort balance. Its print-knit TPU upper mimics textile knitting structures while offering directional flexibility and stability, eliminating shoelaces and enhancing fit. OPERATION / FLOW / INTERACTION: The shoes are personalized through foot scanning and pressure analysis, generating a custom design optimized for foot health. The print-knit TPU upper adapts snugly, eliminating the need for shoelaces, while the dynamic sole customizes zoning softness to relieve pressure-induced pain. Over time, the parametric bottom grid wear pattern helps monitor gait and diagnose foot pathologies. PROJECT DURATION AND LOCATION: The project began in Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA, with fabrication conducted at Harvard FabLab. The next phase involves IRB-approved user testing and material research collaboration with 3D printing start-ups in Boston. |
PRODUCTION / REALIZATION TECHNOLOGY: It is produced using 3D scanning, pressure mapping, and parametric modeling to generate individualized shoe designs. The entire shoe is 3D printed in a single material (recyclable TPU), reducing manufacturing complexity and waste. By utilizing Grasshopper plug-ins (Kangaroo, Weaverbird, Mesh+, LunchBox) and DOE optimization, we fine-tune element thickness, porosity, and structural orientation for each foot’s unique needs. SPECIFICATIONS / TECHNICAL PROPERTIES: Dimensions: 230mm x 85mm x 135mm Material: Recyclable TPU Fabrication: Full-body 3D printing with integrated print-knit upper and zoned cushioning sole Design Parameters: Gait-adaptive sole structure, anisotropic flexibility, localized pressure distribution TAGS: therapeutic footwear, 3D printed shoes, parametric design, pediatric foot care, computational design, sustainable footwear, pressure mapping, AI-assisted design RESEARCH ABSTRACT: We conducted design-driven research to develop personalized pediatric footwear. Objectives included optimizing support-flexibility balance, sustainable fabrication, and medical efficacy. Methodologies included 3D scanning, pressure mapping, and parametric modeling, analyzed using DOE simulations and material stress tests. Results showed that print-knit TPU structures improve directional stability, while zoned soles provide customized pain relief. Insights highlight the potential of data-driven footwear design in clinical applications. CHALLENGE: The biggest challenge was reconciling flexibility with structural support in a single-material, 3D-printed design. Overcoming material constraints, we engineered a knit-inspired TPU upper that adapts dynamically. Additionally, ensuring cost-effectiveness and sustainability for growing children’s feet required computational efficiency and recyclable materials. The project pushes the boundaries of generative design in medical footwear, merging biomechanics, AI-assisted customization, and additive manufacturing. ADDED DATE: 2025-02-28 12:31:13 TEAM MEMBERS (1) : IMAGE CREDITS: PEAR & MULBERRY |
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| CLIENT/STUDIO/BRAND DETAILS | |
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NAME: Pear and Mulberry PROFILE: Pear and Mulberry is a design technology studio committed to developing concepts that promote refined and healthier lifestyles through advancements in computational design and sensory interaction. Their expertise encompasses several key domains:Parametric Computation: By defining key parameters and employing computational algorithms, the studio generates adaptive and efficient design solutions. This approach facilitates rapid prototyping, allowing for swift iteration and optimization, thereby enhancing both the aesthetics and functionality of projects. They excel in redefining product design and functional enhancements, achieving lightweight structures, optimized mechanical distribution, human-computer interaction, and ergonomics. Intelligent Mobility: PEAR & MULBERRY leverages machine learning and AI-driven analyses to anticipate future automotive design trends, developing innovative concepts for electric vehicles, autonomous driving, and mobility solutions.Enhanced Interfaces: The studio enhances user engagement through technologies such as AR/VR, data visualization, applications, and game mechanics. By applying these technologies to practical scenarios, they achieve realistic simulations, thereby improving user experience and interaction across various platforms.PEAR & MULBERRY has established partnerships and alliances with clients in automotive interiors, automotive accessories, fashion brand packaging departments, and academic institution laboratories. Their work has garnered over thirty awards, been featured in international museum collections and exhibitions, and covered by various media outlets, reflecting their commitment to innovation and excellence in design technology. |
| AWARD DETAILS | |
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Weaver Therapeutic Shoes by Pear and Mulberry is Winner in Generative, Algorithmic, Parametric and AI-Assisted Design Category, 2024 - 2025.· Read the interview with designer Pear and Mulberry for design Weaver here.· Press Members: Login or Register to request an exclusive interview with Pear and Mulberry. · Click here to register inorder to view the profile and other works by Pear and Mulberry. |
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