Abstract: A method of producing a customized shoe last for individual fitting and shaping of the inner surface of the shoe includes production of a shoe last based on a precise shape and size of the digital foot model. The actual physical shape of the foot is converted into a foot model using 3D scanning. The digital foot model is divided into parts required for insertion and functioning of a mechanism, and simulation of the bend in the metatarsophalangeal and ankle joints. The parts of the foot obtained by dividing the digital model are then manufactured. An extendable mechanism to move the parts of the shoe last against each other in three axes of coordinates is developed, based the produced parts, an individual shoe last is manufactured in the form of a physical foot model, configured for personal fitting and shaping of an inner surface of the shoe.

Abstract: A shoe tree includes a front section and a rear section which is pivotably connected to the rear end of the front section. The front section has a vamp portion on the top thereof. A first recessed area is defined in the underside of the front section. The rear end of the front section has a first support face and a first opening which communicates with the first recessed area. The rear section is pivotably connected to the first support face. Two notches are defined in two lateral sides of the shoe tree and located between the front and rear sections. The two notches are narrowed and widened when the rear section is pivoted downward and upward relative to the front section. The front section is inserted into a shoe by push and pivoting the rear section, and then the rear section is inserted into the shoe.

Abstract: An adjustable last that may be inserted into an article includes provisions so that the position of an adjustable portion of the adjustable last can be changed according to the size of the article. In some embodiments, the adjustable last includes an inflatable member that can be filled with fluid according to the size of the article, and may be used to adjust the size of the article. Other embodiments do not include an inflatable member. The adjustable last can include an adjustment assembly for adjusting the adjustable portion. The adjustment assembly can include a wedge member.