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Content archived on 2024-06-18

Development of a heelless shoe to reduce injury during running

Objective

As healthy as it is to keep fit by running, the repetitive stresses and strains on joints cause a large percentage of the injuries experienced during this sport. HEELLESS aims to develop a novel type of running shoe that prevents joint injury and muscle strain by mitigating the impact force that results from impact force when the foot strikes the ground during running; notably the peak force when landing on the heel is smoothed out. Preliminary trials have proven the concept, but methodical research is needed to enable the SME consortium to further improve the shoe. Research of composite materials to be used for the application of a rigid upper sole will set a new precedent for the market of composite materials. The use of a natural fibre reinforced composite for the application of use in specialised athletic footwear is a novel approach with distinct recycleability advantages. Such composites have not yet been embarked upon, making this application highly innovative. The work anticipated is broken down into work packages for research and innovation related to material research, shoe development, biomechanical assessments, evaluations, as well dissemination, technology transfer and exploitation of results. The market for athletic footwear is substantial and grows with 4% per annum, with consumers becoming increasingly aware of safety factors and the prevention of injuries through specialised clothing. The exploitation outlook is great, not only addressing performance runners, but in particular also the fitness market. Multinational players on one hand and threats from cheap alternatives from low-wage countries on the other hand, however, make it a particular challenge for SMEs to tap these market opportunities. To have a chance, a superior performance and other use related properties (like safety, comfort) are a prerequisite, and precisely the expected result of HEELLESS.

Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)

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Programme(s)

Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.

Topic(s)

Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.

Call for proposal

Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.

FP7-SME-2007-1
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Funding Scheme

Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.

BSG-SME - Research for SMEs

Coordinator

PRO SUPPORT BV
EU contribution
€ 71 200,00
Address
Amarilstraat 11
7550 AN HENGELO
Netherlands

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Activity type
Private for-profit entities (excluding Higher or Secondary Education Establishments)
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Total cost

The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.

No data

Participants (11)

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