Abstract: A method of making a foot-shaped layer, such as an insole member of a shoe using an apparatus which includes a top plate having an opening of a predetermined area and mutually adjacent bar-like measuring elements frictionally supported in an individually vertically movable manner within the opening. A sheet of thermoplastic is heated to a plasticized state and placed on the opening so as to cover the upper end surfaces of the measuring elements so that upon stepping on the sheet with a foot, the film and measuring elements thereunder move downward by amounts corresponding to the shape of the foot so that the film is molded to the shape of the foot. The molded film is then cooled and cut along the outline of the foot to obtain a layer which may be used to define the shape of an insole member.

Abstract: An apparatus for making a foot-shaped layer, such as an insole member of a shoe. The apparatus includes a top plate having an opening of a predetermined area and mutually adjacent bar-like measuring elements supported in an individually vertically movable manner under frictional resistance within the opening. A heating chamber is provided adjacent to the top plate for heating a sheet of thermoplastic therein to a plasticized state. In accordance with the method, a plasticized sheet of the film is placed on the opening so as to cover the upper end surfaces of the measuring elements so that upon stepping on the sheet with a foot, the film is molded to the shape of the foot. The molded film is then cooled and cut along the outline of the foot to obtain a layer which may be used to define the shape of an insole member.