Hi there,
This is Bogdan from Romania.
I'm a mechanical engineer - specialized in the industrial robotic field, 3D designer and modeler (from time to time and some projects I could make the functional prototype too).
I'm doing product design, industrial design, reverse engineering, ideation, etc.
I have over 15 years experience working on various systems/devices across multiple industries, from concept to launch.
1 - what kind of footwear do you need to refine? tall shoes, prosthetics, etc..
2 - for any model/prototype two types of analysis should be conducted... fea and functional. also the technical assessment on the solutions, materials, manufacturing processes, etc
3 - the design for manufacturability is a bit different from the design for prototyping (even it is a industrial like prototype...)
4 - after the 3d model is designed and approved, the fea could be run, and the poc prototype could be made...
5 - based on the first prototype, the adjustments/improvements/changes will be made and go for the next stage...
6 - i have my own workshop where i could make the prototype(s), but this is a discussion for later...
Regards
Bogdan