CeNTI -

The Arcopedico I-Shoes project aims to develop sustainable materials with contamination-prevention properties to minimise the spread of microorganisms, as well as active comfort systems for integration into ROPAR footwear.

In the area of sustainable materials, the project focuses on studying new compounds with antiviral and antimicrobial properties, derived from natural raw materials and/or by-products from various industries, for incorporation into the soles.

At the level of active comfort systems, several technological approaches are being explored, namely:

1. Soles with enhanced propulsion to support walking, achieved through the optimisation of materials and sole design;
2. Soles integrating haptic systems for massage/stimulation, together with sensors to monitor parameters relevant to comfort, such as temperature;
3. An adaptive arch-support system, based on inflatable cells and conformable foams, enabling adjustment to different plantar morphologies, from flat feet to high-arched feet.

To implement these technologies, either individually or in combination, the project includes the development and re-engineering of a new customised sole.