U.S. patent application number 10/077460 was filed with the patent office on 2003-08-21 for dynamic canting and cushioning system for footwear.
Invention is credited to Gyr, Kaj.
Application Number | 20030154628 10/077460 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 27732662 |
Filed Date | 2003-08-21 |
United States Patent
Application |
20030154628 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Gyr, Kaj |
August 21, 2003 |
Dynamic canting and cushioning system for footwear
Abstract
A sole unit for footwear having, comprising: a medial side, a
lateral side, a top surface, and a bottom surface; the sole unit
having at least one collapsible profile on a portion of its bottom
surface, the collapsible profile being capable of selectively,
resiliently canting a side of a user's foot upwardly on the side
opposite an applied lateral force during use, the collapsible
profile having a canting means for facilitating the selective
canting of the user's foot. The invention is also directed to
methods of constructing footwear in accordance with the
foregoing.
Inventors: |
Gyr, Kaj; (Portland,
OR) |
Correspondence
Address: |
BRADLEY M GANZ, PC
P O BOX 10105
PORTLAND
OR
97296
|
Family ID: |
27732662 |
Appl. No.: |
10/077460 |
Filed: |
February 15, 2002 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
36/25R ; 36/28;
36/59R |
Current CPC
Class: |
A43B 13/141 20130101;
A43B 13/186 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
36/25.00R ;
36/28; 36/59.00R |
International
Class: |
A43B 013/18 |
Claims
What I claim:
1. A sole unit for footwear having, comprising: a medial side, a
lateral side, a top surface, and a bottom surface; the sole unit
having at least one collapsible profile on a portion of its bottom
surface, the collapsible profile being capable of selectively,
resiliently canting a side of a user's foot upwardly on the side
opposite an applied lateral force during use, the collapsible
profile having a canting means for facilitating the selective
canting of the user's foot.
2. The sole unit of claim 1 having collapsible profiles opposing
each other such that when a lateral force is applied to the sole
unit, the collapsible profile at the side to which the force is
applied selectively collapses at the canting means and the canting
means in the opposing collapsible profile resists collapsing in the
same direction.
3. The sole unit of claim 1 wherein at least one collapsible
profile is disposed along at least each of a forefoot or heel
portion of a medial side of the sole unit.
4. The sole unit of claim 3 wherein collapsible profiles are
disposed along a forefoot or heel portion of medial and lateral
sides of the sole unit.
5. The sole unit of claim 1 wherein the collapsible profile
includes a canting means comprising a flexure axis oriented
generally parallel to the midline of the sole unit.
6. The sole unit of claim 5 having collapsible profiles opposing
each other such that when a lateral force is applied to the sole
unit, the collapsible profile at the side to which the force is
applied selectively collapses at the canting means and the opposing
collapsible profile resists collapsing in the same direction.
7. The sole unit of claim 6 wherein the collapsible profile has an
outside edge at an outside medial edge of the sole unit and a
canting means that allows the collapsible profile to splay away
from the outside edge under a lateral force to the medial side of
the shoe.
8. The sole unit of claim 1 wherein the collapsible profile
includes an outsole for ground contact.
9. The sole unit of claim 8 wherein the collapsible profile also
comprises a resilient element.
10. The sole unit of claim 9 wherein the collapsible profile
includes an outsole for ground contact.
11. The sole unit of claim 4 wherein midsole and/or outsole
structure, not comprising a collapsible profile, is disposed
closely adjacent at least about 10% the perimeter of one or more
collapsible profiles.
12. The sole unit of claim 11 wherein the midsole and/or outsole is
closely disposed adjacent at least about 25% of the perimeter of
one or more collapsible profiles.
13. The sole unit of claim 1 wherein the collapsible profile
substantially comprises a non-amorphous material.
14. The sole unit of claim 1 wherein the collapsible profile is
removably disposed on the sole unit.
15. The sole unit of claim 3 wherein the collapsible profile
comprises an element having a generally vertical side wall facing
outwardly and an angled sidewall facing inwardly, the collapsible
profile facilitating selective collapse of the collapsible profile
due to the angled differences of the walls to cant the shoe.
16. The sole unit of claim 3 wherein the collapsible profile
extends downwardly from the bottom surface in a-direction
substantially perpendicular to the plane of the bottom surface.
17. The sole unit of 1 wherein a plurality of collapsible profiles
comprising a resiliently compressible material are disposed in a
plurality of parallel arrays, at least two arrays on opposite sides
of a midline extending at least 25% the length of the sole
unit.
18. The sole unit of 1 wherein a plurality of collapsible profiles
comprising a resiliently compressible material are disposed in a
plurality of parallel segments, at least two segments on opposite
sides of a midline extending at least 25% the length of the sole
unit.
19. The sole unit of claim 16 wherein the collapsible profile has a
curvilinear shape that generally corresponds to an adjacent side
contour of the sole unit.
20. The sole unit of claim 1 wherein the top surface is fore-aft
translatable relative to the bottom surface under a force applied
generally perpendicular to the surface of the top or bottom
surface.
21. The sole unit of claim 15 wherein, under a lateral force the
bottom surface of the collapsible profile at the initial side of
the lateral force may maintain substantial contact with the ground,
and the top surface may laterally displace in the direction of the
applied force, with the side of the sole unit canting towards the
side at which the force is initially applied.
22. The sole unit of claim 21 wherein the ground contacting
collapsible profile is disposed on a heel portion of a sole unit
and spans the heel portion from a medial side, across a midline, to
the lateral side of the heel portion.
23. The sole unit of claim 21 wherein the ground contacting
collapsible profile is disposed on a forefoot portion of a sole
unit and spans the forefoot portion from a medial side, across a
midline, to the lateral side of the forefoot portion.
24. The sole unit of claim 1 wherein there are a plurality of the
canting means on the sole unit, each allowing resilient fore-aft
displacement of the top surface relative to the bottom surface.
25. The sole unit of claim 1 wherein the collapsible profile
comprises a torsion element coupled to a canting means disposed on
the bottom surface of the sole unit, the torsion element having
opposing force transfer means at each end.
26. The sole unit of claim 25 wherein the canting means comprises a
sleeve for receiving the torsion element and the torsion element
comprises a rigid bar that may rotationally move in the sleeve.
27. The sole unit of claim 25 wherein the force transfer means
comprise substantially rigid pads.
28. The sole unit of claim 25 wherein the canting means comprises a
sleeve for receiving the torsion element and the force transfer
means comprise substantially rigid pads.
29. The sole unit of claim 25 wherein the canting means is disposed
at about a midline of the sole unit and force transfer means for a
torsion element are located on opposite sides of the midline.
30. The sole unit of claim 29 wherein the torsion element is
nonlinear and adapted to dispose one force transfer means forward
of the canting means and the other rearward.
31. The sole unit of claim 30 wherein there are a plurality
collapsible profiles comprising a torsion element, canting means
and force transfer means on the sole unit.
32. The sole unit of claim 25 wherein the collapsible profile also
comprises a resilient element.
33. A sole unit for footwear having, comprising: a medial side, a
lateral side, a top surface, and a bottom surface; the sole unit
having at least one collapsible profile on a portion of its bottom
surface, the collapsible profile comprises a torsion element
coupled to a canting means disposed on the bottom surface of the
sole unit, the torsion element having opposing force transfer means
at each end wherein the canting means is disposed at about a
midline of the sole unit and force transfer means for a torsion
element are located on opposite sides of the midline.
34. The sole unit of claim 33 wherein the collapsible profile
comprises a resilient element.
35. The sole unit of claim 34 wherein the torsion element is
nonlinear and adapted to dispose one force transfer means forward
of the canting means and the other rearward.
36. A sole unit for footwear having, comprising: a medial side, a
lateral side, a top surface, and a bottom surface; the sole unit
having at least one canting means on a portion of the bottom
surface for laterally displacing the top surface from the bottom
surface and canting the top surface relative to the bottom surface,
according to the direction of an applied lateral force, the top
surface forming an acute angle on the side of the sole unit to
which the lateral force is generally applied and an obtuse angle on
the opposite side.
37. A sole unit, comprising: a medial side, a lateral side, a top
surface, and a bottom surface; the sole unit having at least one
collapsible profile on a portion of its bottom surface, the
collapsible profile being capable of selectively, resiliently
canting a side of a user's foot upwardly on the side opposite an
applied lateral force during use, the collapsible profile
comprising opposing vertical displacement elements with an upper or
lower horizontal displacement element disposed therebetween and,
the vertical elements having upward and downward ends that
interface with the upper and/or lower horizontal displacement
elements via canting means, the canting means facilitating the
deformation of the collapsible profile to provide selective canting
of the user's foot.
38. The sole unit of claim 37 wherein the vertical displacement
elements form an acute angle with the lower portion under static
use conditions.
39. The sole unit of claim 37 wherein the collapsible profile has
one displacement element on one side of a midline of the sole unit
and the other displacement element on the opposing side, the upper
and lower portions and vertical displacements disposed therebetween
generally having a rhomboid-like shape.
40. The sole unit of 39 wherein there are a plurality of the
rhomboid-like collapsible profiles disposed along a length of the
sole unit.
41. The sole unit of claim 37 wherein the upper and/or lower
horizontal displacement elements comprise elements integrated or
attached to the sole unit.
42. A shoe having a sole unit comprising: a medial side, a lateral
side, a top surface, and a bottom surface; the sole unit having at
least one collapsible profile on a portion of its bottom surface,
the collapsible profile being capable of selectively, resiliently
canting a side of a user's foot upwardly on the side opposite an
applied lateral force during use, the collapsible profile having a
canting means for facilitating the selective canting of the user's
foot.
43. A shoe having a sole unit comprising: a medial side, a lateral
side, a top surface, and a bottom surface; the sole unit having at
least one collapsible profile on a portion of its bottom surface,
the collapsible profile comprises a torsion element coupled to a
canting means disposed on the bottom surface of the sole unit, the
torsion element having opposing force transfer means at each end
wherein the canting means is disposed at about a midline of the
sole unit and force transfer means for a torsion element are
located on opposite sides of the midline.
44. A shoe having a sole unit comprising: a medial side, a lateral
side, a top surface, and a bottom surface; the sole unit having at
least one collapsible profile on a portion of its bottom surface,
the collapsible profile being capable of selectively, resiliently
canting a side of a user's foot upwardly on the side opposite an
applied lateral force during use, the collapsible profile
comprising an upper portion and a lower portion, the upper portion
being connected together by vertically disposed displacement
elements therebetween, the vertical elements having upward and
downward ends that interface with the upper and lower portion via
canting means, the canting means facilitating the deformation of
the collapsible profile to provide selective canting of the user's
foot.
45. A method of constructing a shoe comprising, providing a sole
unit comprising: a medial side, a lateral side, a top surface, and
a bottom surface; the sole unit having at least one collapsible
profile on a portion of its bottom surface, the collapsible profile
being capable of selectively, resiliently canting a side of a
user's foot upwardly on the side opposite an applied lateral force
during use, the collapsible profile having a canting means for
facilitating the selective canting of the user's foot, and
attaching the sole unit to an upper for retaining the foot of a
user.
46. A method of constructing a shoe comprising, providing a sole
unit comprising: a medial side, a lateral side, a top surface, and
a bottom surface; the sole unit having at least one collapsible
profile on a portion of its bottom surface, the collapsible profile
comprises a torsion element coupled to a canting means disposed on
the bottom surface of the sole unit, the torsion element having
opposing force transfer means at each end wherein the canting means
is disposed at about a midline of the sole unit and force transfer
means for a torsion element are located on opposite sides of the
midline, foot, and attaching the sole unit to an upper for
retaining the foot of a user.
47. A method of constructing a shoe comprising, providing a sole
unit comprising: a medial side, a lateral side, a top surface, and
a bottom surface; the sole unit having at least one collapsible
profile on a portion of its bottom surface, the collapsible profile
being capable of selectively, resiliently canting a side of a
user's foot upwardly on the side opposite an applied lateral force
during use, the collapsible profile comprising an upper portion and
a lower portion, the upper portion being connected together by
vertically disposed displacement elements therebetween, the
vertical elements having upward and downward ends that interface
with the upper and lower portion via canting means, the canting
means facilitating the deformation of the collapsible profile to
provide selective canting of the user's foot, and attaching the
sole unit to an upper for retaining the foot of a user.
Description
BACKGROUND
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] This invention pertains to a sole unit in the field of
footwear and in particular it pertains to athletic footwear.
[0003] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0004] In conventional footwear, sole units (i.e. the midsole,
outsole, or both) tend to maintain the bottom surface of the foot
in a parallel plane to the ground during lateral cutting or
stepping movements. While this effect may provide some stability
against undue ankle roll, it interferes with the natural
biomechanics of the foot. When a lateral movement is made by an
unshod foot, the fatty tissue and musculo-skeletal structures of
the foot react to the lateral force in a way that results in it
deforming so as to more closely maintain the alignment of the shin
and foot, in a biomechanically efficient and stable position. In
conventional shoes this alignment is lost because the sole unit
tends to maintain the foot in a plane parallel to the ground. As a
result, conventional shoes may subject an ankle of a wearer to
undue lateral rotation and consequently the potential for acute
injuries. Accordingly, there is a need for a sole unit that more
closely reacts to lateral force at least as well as the unshod
foot. There is also a need for improved sole units that not only
mimic natural biomechanics but also provide enhanced stability,
performance, cushioning, and comfort under lateral and vertical
forces.
SUMMARY
[0005] The present invention overcomes the disadvantages in the
prior art by providing a dynamic canting system that under lateral
force cants the sole unit of a shoe towards the direction of force,
in effect mimicking a banked turn. This provides increased
stability, performance, and comfort, while augmenting the potential
for cutting sharper lateral movements or turns under greater
force.
[0006] While the sole unit of the present invention is suited for
use in any kind of footwear, it is especially for footwear intended
for use under circumstances where there are significant lateral
movements and forces during use. Athletics and sports, particularly
court sports, often require such movements and generate such
forces. Accordingly, the present invention is particularly suited
for footwear intended for use in court sports, including
basketball, tennis, soccer, volleyball, handball, racquetball,
squash. Further, the present invention may be implemented in
specific ways according to the demands of a particular sport. The
present invention enables the construction of a lightweight,
well-cushioned, low profile, adjustable shoe meant to out-perform
all conventional court shoes.
[0007] In addition to improving a shoes' lateral stability and
performance, embodiments of the present invention may be used to
improve the shoe's response to vertical forces acting on the shoe
alone or in combination with lateral forces.
[0008] In summary, this invention may offer one or more of the
following advantages over conventional court-type shoes:
[0009] Prolonged lateral deceleration, which creates less stress on
the lower leg and ankle, while increasing outsole grip.
[0010] Automatic inward canting of the heel, allowing for quicker
and more agile lateral moves.
[0011] Increased proportional shock absorption for a given midsole
thickness, since, unlike with standard technology, the heel no
longer needs to provide a stable platform through the use of stiff
elastomers.
[0012] Decreased weight due to use of lower-density elastomers.
[0013] Better axial alignment of the ball of the foot.
[0014] Decreased fatigue
[0015] Greater comfort/reduced risk of injuries
[0016] Better mimicking of the biomechanics of the unshod foot.
[0017] Substantial possibilities for cross-category integration and
future iterations.
[0018] Substantial marketability--the dynamic is kinetic and
readily apparent visually and through wear testing.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0019] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the bottom side of a sole
unit for a shoe according to the present invention.
[0020] FIG. 2 is a plan view of a heel side of a shoe with a sole
unit according to the present invention under a relatively light
vertical but not lateral force.
[0021] FIG. 3 is the shoe of FIG. 2 under a lateral force.
[0022] FIG. 4 is FIG. 2 under a greater lateral force.
[0023] FIG. 5 is a plan view of a heel side of a shoe with a sole
unit according to FIG. 1 under a relatively light vertical but not
lateral force.
[0024] FIG. 6 is the shoe of FIG. 5 under a lateral force.
[0025] FIG. 7 is a plan view of a heel side of a shoe with
alternative embodiment of a sole unit under a relatively light
vertical but not lateral force.
[0026] FIG. 8 is the shoe of FIG. 7 under a lateral force.
[0027] FIG. 9 is a schematic view of a heel portion of a shoe with
a further embodiment of a sole unit according to the present
invention under a vertical compressive force even with the midline
of the shoe.
[0028] FIG. 10 is the shoe of FIG. 9 with the shoe under vertical
compressive force that is offset from the midline of the shoe.
[0029] FIG. 11 is a shoe with another embodiment of a sole unit
under a relatively light vertical and a lateral force.
[0030] FIG. 12 is a bottom plan view of the embodiment of FIG.
11.
[0031] FIG. 13 is a bottom plan view of the embodiment of FIGS. 9
and 10.
[0032] FIG. 14 is a plan view of a heel side of a shoe with another
alternative embodiment of a sole unit under a vertical but not
lateral force.
[0033] FIG. 15 is the shoe of FIG. 14 under a lateral force.
[0034] FIG. 16 is a side elevation view of the sole unit according
to FIG. 14.
[0035] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the bottom side of another
alternative embodiment of show with a sole unit according to the
present invention.
[0036] FIG. 18 is a sectional view of the sole unit of the shoe of
FIG. 17 taken along line 18-18
[0037] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the bottom side of another
alternative embodiment of a sole unit for a shoe according to the
present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS OF THE PRESENT
INVENTION
[0038] In the following illustrations, the features illustrated are
not necessarily to scale, the illustrations intending only to be
representative of the features for purpose of this discussion, it
being within the skill of a person in the art to determine relative
sizing and positioning of the features used in the novel
combinations illustrated herein, except for the novel arrangement
described herein.
[0039] When used in the context of forces, the term "lateral" means
a force 12 applied substantially perpendicular to the lateral or
medial side of a foot. When used in the context of the anatomy of
the foot, "lateral" refers to the outside of a foot. "medial"
refers to the inside of a foot that faces the opposing medial side
of the opposite foot.
[0040] As used herein, the vertical compression refers to the
vertical compressive force 13 that a shoe may be subject to based
on the static weight of a user, as may be induced from foot strike
activities such as walking, running, and jumping.
[0041] An object may react to a force isotropically or
anisotropically. As used herein, isotropic means that an object
deforms the same way regardless of the direction of an applied
force. Anisotropic means that the object deforms differently
depending on the direction of the force applied to the object.
[0042] Although this invention pertains largely to footwear it may
also include designs relating to skates and selective canting of
the blade or wheels in relation to the uppers.
[0043] In a basic form, the present invention includes one or more
collapsing profiles which may compress in a largely vertical manner
when vertical forces are applied. However, when lateral forces are
applied, one side collapses resiliently more, producing a dynamic
canting of the sole unit.
[0044] FIGS. 1-4 show one possible embodiment of a sole unit 4 and
shoe 10 in accordance with the present invention. The shoe 10
comprises upper 2 and sole unit 4. Looking at FIG. 1, a sole unit 4
isolated from shoe upper 2 is shown.
[0045] The sole unit 4 generally may comprise (i) a midsole for
energy absorption and/or return; (ii) an outsole material for
surface contact and abrasion resistance and/or traction; or (iii) a
single unit providing such midsole or outsole functions. The sole
unit also includes a plurality of collapsible profiles 11.1-11.6.
(If a collapsible profile is being referenced in a context where
the indicated positioning is not critical, the reference number
"11" will be used.) The collapsible profiles 11 may individually or
collectively, and in whole or in part, provide the aforementioned
midsole and/or outsole for the sole unit.
[0046] The sole unit 4 may be divided generally into a forefoot
portion 17 and a rearfoot or heel portion 18. In FIG. 4, sole unit
4 is shown with its bottom (ground contacting) surface up. The top
surface of the sole unit may receive upper 2 or an intervening
component that provides energy return or absorption. While the sole
unit 4 would generally extend the length of the shoe, a sole unit
could also comprise a unit that extends for a lesser area, such as
just the forefoot or rearfoot portion, or some other area of lesser
length or width.
[0047] The sole unit may include resilient elements that provide
cushioning against shock. They may also be of a nature that
provides energy return (in essence, spring) upon impact. For
convenience, unless otherwise expressly or contextually indicated,
"resilient element" refers to an element with either energy
absorption and/or return functionality. One or more resilient
elements 5 may be included in the sole unit 4 at locations where
cushioning may be needed. For example, the rearfoot portion 18 of
the sole unit would typically require cushioning, and resilient
element 5 may be located there, as indicated in FIG. 1. Similarly,
forefoot section 17 includes a resilient element 5.
[0048] Collapsible profiles 11 are disposed on the bottom surface
of the sole unit 4 along opposite sides of a midline 22, generally
dividing the shoe in medial and lateral halves. Preferably they are
disposed adjacent the bottom side edges of the sole unit.
Collapsible profiles 11.1 and 11.2 are disposed on a lateral side 7
and a medial side 8 of the rear portion 18 of the shoe. Collapsible
profiles 11.3 and 11.5 are disposed along lateral edges of forefoot
portion 17, and opposing them are collapsible profiles 11.4 and
11.6 disposed along the medial edges of the forefoot portion
17.
[0049] The sole unit on which the collapsible profiles 11 are
disposed may comprise a standard midsole material, such as EVA or
polyurethane foam and/or an abrasion resistant rubber or
rubber-like material. It may also comprise a structural mid-sole
component such as Hytrel or Nylon, such as disclosed in Luthi et
al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,822,886, the teaching of which are hereby
incorporated by reference for all purposes. The collapsible
profiles may themselves be composed of such materials or structures
Referring to FIGS. 1-6, each collapsible profile contains one or
more canting means 14. The canting means 14 enables a collapsible
profile 11 to deform anisotropically in response in response to
lateral force, allowing the sole unit to cant correspondingly.
FIGS. 2-4 represent a collapsible profile with a canting means 14
comprising a flexure axis such as a slit, crease, or hinging zone,
which facilitates collapsing in one direction, but not in the
other.
[0050] FIGS. 2-4 show shoe 10 under different forces. In this
example, shoe 10 represents a right shoe. FIG. 2 is a view of the
heel portion of the shoe 10 under a vertical force 13 (force
perpendicular to the bottom surface of the sole unit) here
representing static weight of the wearer of the shoe. When a
moderate lateral force 12 is directed from the medial to lateral
side of the shoe, as might occur during a cutting movement (e.g.,
during a court-sport, such as basketball or tennis), canting means
14 allows the collapsible profile 11 to collapse towards the side
of the applied force 12, as seen in FIG. 3. FIG. 4 shows the
further deformation of the collapsible profile under further force
12. As seen, the collapsible profile undergoing deformation
maintains substantial surface contact with the ground during
deformation.
[0051] In FIG. 3, shoe 10 is inclined towards the direction of the
applied force 12. This demonstrates the canting action resulting
from the collapse or deformation of collapsible profile 11 in
response to a moderate applied force 12 (in combination with the
vertical force 13.) The lateral force 12 illustrated represents
that which the wearer might subject the shoe to in a lateral
cutting movement of the right foot. This force starts causing
collapsible profile 11 to angle downwards away from the force
vector that is the sum of vertical force 13 and lateral force
vector 12. Accordingly the orientation of a canting means 14
(discussed in greater detail below) creates an anisotropic collapse
away from the force: Notice that while lateral force 12 is applied
across the medial side 7 of the shoe toward the lateral side, the
collapsible profile 11 on the lateral side 8 does not deform at
all, or at least to a relatively lesser extent than its counterpart
on the medial side. This selective or anisotropic response to the
same directed force enables the shoe to cant towards the force,
providing a stable platform that mimics the advantageous
biomechanics of the barefoot. However, if the force is applied from
the lateral to the medial side of the same shoe, the lateral
collapsible profiles respond in mirrored fashion to their response
to lateral force applied from the medial side.
[0052] As noted, FIG. 4 shows that as lateral force 12 is
increased, shoe 10 responds by canting increasingly more. This
demonstrates that the dynamic canting effect may be proportional to
the force applied. However, a limit on canting may be imposed so
that there is less likelihood of a potentially injurious foot
roll-over. The limit may be a rigid or relatively rigid structure
on one or more sides of a collapsible profile that resists or
blocks deformation. The structure may be of the same or similar
material as the collapsible profiles but have different properties
due to the angles or shapes. Or the structure could be of a
different more rigid material that helps restrict deformation on
the desired side of the collapsible profile.
[0053] In the example of FIGS. 1-4, the canting means 14 comprise
one or more horizontal or substantially horizontal slits in the
inward facing sidewall of the collapsible profile, extending partly
through the collapsible profile toward the outward sidewall. The
orientation of canting means 14 permits the foregoing canting
effect by virtue of its hinging being dependent on the direction of
the applied force. If the force is applied away from the open side
of a slit, the opposing surfaces defining the slit cannot spread
apart because the opposing inner surfaces block each other rather
than separating.
[0054] As indicated in FIGS. 1, 5, and 6, a plurality of canting
means may be used in any single collapsible profile. As noted, the
canting means may comprise one or more slits 14. A slit may extend
from an inner wall of a collapsible profile toward the outer wall
in various angles that allow the slit to open in response to a
lateral force applied from the outside wall of the slit across the
inside wall, but not to open substantially in response to an
opposite applied force. The slits 14 extend only partially through
the downward extension of the collapsible profile. In one suitable
embodiment, a slit is oriented in a line that is parallel or
substantially parallel to the plane of the sole unit.
[0055] In the embodiment of FIGS. 1, 5, and 6, each collapsible
profile has a plurality of slits 14 disposed in different vertical,
substantially parallel positions in the collapsible profile. By
varying the number of slits and the degree/angle to which they
extend across the collapsible profile 11, the deformation
characteristics of the profile may be tuned for a particular
application. For example, greater deformation might be desired for
a court shoe.
[0056] By incorporating the collapsible profiles 11 in the sole
unit 4, the dynamic canting of the shoe 10 stabilizes the foot
during lateral cutting movements or otherwise under lateral force.
Multiple or deeper slits could be provided in the collapsible
profile to promote the deformability. In a running shoe there is
less need for the lateral deformability a collapsible profile can
provide. Accordingly, the canting means would be less responsive to
lateral force 12. In the embodiment of FIG. 1, this could be
achieved, for example, by fewer or less deep slits to control
lateral deformability. The material properties of the collapsible
profile could also factor in the deformability of the collapsible
profile. For example, use of higher durometer materials would
provide more resistance to deformation.
[0057] Other orientations of slits 14 or other canting means to
achieve tuned deformation are, of course, possible. For instance,
more vertically oriented slits could respond to vertical forces and
help cushion against them. As an example, FIGS. 17-18 show a sole
unit 4 with collapsible profiles 514 extending the whole or a
substantial length of the sole unit. One or more collapsible
profiles 514a are disposed on one side of midline 22 and one or
more collapsible profiles 514b are disposed on the opposite side.
FIG. 19 shows a similar sole unit with collapsible profiles 614.
Again there are opposing sets of collapsible profiles on opposite
sides of a midline 22. In this case, collapsible profiles are small
projections that may vary in size. Generally the collapsible
profiles of FIGS. 17 and 19 are arranged as parallel, or
substantially parallel, units or arrays running longitudinally
along the sole unit. In the embodiments of FIGS. 17 and 19, the
sole unit and collapsible profiles may be molded using conventional
techniques to form a unitary sole unit structure that includes the
collapsible profiles. The molding process may use conventional
midsole and outsole materials. For example, looking at FIG. 18, the
collapsible profiles 514 may be formed of standard midsole 518 and
outsole 520. In FIGS. 17-19, the collapsible profiles have a
preferred configuration of a substantially vertical outside
sidewall 521, 621 and an angled inside sidewall 523, 623.
[0058] It is also noted that slits or other canting means need not
initiate in a surface of a collapsible profile, but could be
encapsulated within the profile.
[0059] Deformability in a collapsible profile 11 can also be
controlled by tuning the shape of a profile. Note, for example,
that the collapsible profiles 11 of FIG. 1 have relatively vertical
sidewalls 21 on the outward side of the profile, and acutely angled
sidewalls 23 on the inward side. This arrangement facilitates the
collapse of the profile under vertical and/or lateral force applied
from the opposite side of the collapsible profile, as shown in the
figures. An opposing collapsible profile across midline 22 does not
collapse at its canting means, at least in part due to the
resistance of the angled sidewall. The angled sidewall is like a
reinforced dike against forces from the opposite side, i.e., the
angled sidewall will collapse more from a force received from the
same side than from a force received from its opposite side. The
sidewall arrangement of collapsible profiles therefore enhances the
effect of the canting means in causing a profile to deform
selectively according to the direction of the applied force. FIGS.
17 and 19 are other examples of the sidewall vertical/angled
arrangement. For example, in FIG. 17, the collapsible profiles have
substantially vertical outward facing sidewalls 521 and angled
sidewalls 523 on the inward facing sidewalls.
[0060] In addition to slits, the canting means 14 may also comprise
indentations or grooves or other means that allow the collapsible
profile to splay toward the direction of the force. For example,
instead of or in addition to the slits, the selective deformation
administered by the canting means could be implemented, as one or
more cells, such as a honeycomb or accordian-like cellular
structure, that are wholly or partly collapsed under vertical load
and which expand under a lateral load, much the same way as a slit
14 opens. This would approximate the dynamic illustrated in FIGS.
7-8.
[0061] The present invention contemplates other embodiments of
collapsible profiles that provide the same functionality and
dynamic of the embodiments of FIGS. 1-6 and 17-19. For example,
FIGS. 7 and 8 show a shoe with a plurality of collapsible profiles
111 generally aligned along the lateral and medial sides of the
shoe. In this embodiment the lateral profiles each comprise a unit
that has zones 114 of differing elasticity or expandability.
Generally, one or more stretchable zones 114 are disposed on the
inward side of the collapsible profile and one or more less elastic
or non-elastic zones are disposed on an outward side of a
stretchable zone. The collapsible profiles may have a counterpart
profile on the opposite side of a midline 22 with the same or
similar construction. Under a lateral force, zones of elastic
material stretch. As the collapsible profile stretches it splays in
generally the same way as the collapsible profiles 11 of the
embodiments of FIGS. 1-6 and 17-19. The outer zones are less
resistant to stretching. A vertical/angled arrangement of sidewalls
21/23 may add to the stretching integrity and promote anisotophy
deformation as earlier noted. A counterpart collapsible profile on
the opposite side of the midline 22 responds generally in the same
or similar way as the counterpart collapsible profiles of FIGS.
1-6, except that the collapsible profile resists deformation in the
direction of the force because of the lesser elasticity of the
outward zones and because inward facing elastic zones are under a
compressive force rather than a separating force. Accordingly,
there is selective deformation of the collapsible profile on the
medial side 7 and resistance to collapse on the lateral side 8. The
selective collapsibility of the profiles causes the shoe to cant
downwardly toward the medial side under a force 12 applied from the
medial to the lateral side.
[0062] It should be appreciated at this point that the elastic
zones 114 in the collapsible profiles of FIGS. 7 and 8 act as a
canting means by allowing the collapsible profile 114 to splay
outwardly in the direction of an applied lateral force 12.
[0063] In FIGS. 7 and 8 a stretchable zone 114 of a collapsible
profile 111 may be made of one or more layers of elastic material.
Preferably going from the outward side 21 to the inward side 23 of
the collapsible profile 111 there is progressively more
stretchability. In addition to using distinct layers of stretchable
material for this purpose, the collapsible profile may be molded as
single unit of one or more compositions providing the progressive
stretchability. The stretchable zone may also be based on a
cellular structure, wherein, for example, the cells are made of a
stretchable material. The cells could also be designed to be
resiliently compressible so that they serve as resilient
element.
[0064] Example materials for the collapsible profiles of FIGS. 7
and 8 include Neoprene, Poron, rubbery EVAs, and other known
materials familiar to persons skilled in the art. These may be
formed in known molding processes and be of varying durometers and
skin tensions. Additional permutations to embodiments of FIGS. 1-8
may include any one or more of the following:
[0065] Various combinations of elastomers/air cells or bladders
forming the collapsible profiles. (In this connection, the
deformation pads disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,266,897 may be
adapted in accordance with the present invention. The teachings of
the '897 patent are hereby incorporated by reference for all
purposes.)
[0066] Collapsible profiles that are removably attachable to a sole
unit, by providing attachment means such as receptacles, pockets,
threading, slots, zipper means or other known means to removably
engage the collapsible profile to the sole unit.
[0067] Resilient elements that are removably attachable with a
predetermined portion of the sole unit. For example, the removable
resilient elements may be disposed on or in a central portion of a
sole unit, by providing attachment means such as pockets,
threading, or other known means to removably engage the collapsible
profile to the sole unit. A slit or crease towards the top of the
profiles which enables them to fold one way but not the other.
[0068] The inclusion of compressible pads of selected durometers
and shear-ability on any side of a collapsible profile.
[0069] Variable density portions or layers of the collapsing
profiles to provide tuned deformation and/or cushioning.
[0070] Various sizes, profiles, and heights of collapsible profiles
arranged at various points throughout the sole unit. These may be
curvilinear relative to the midline 22 of the sole unit 4. They may
also range in size from a pencil-tip to profiles several inches in
length.
[0071] Outsole materials co-molded or affixed to the lower portion
of collapsible profiles
[0072] Variation in the angle at which a profile collapses depends
on the bottom of a sole unit. For example, the collapsible profiles
instead of projecting substantially vertically from the bottom of
the sole unit may be angled outwardly/inwardly or fore/aft relative
to a sole unit's midline, and be non-orthogonally placed relative
to the midline.
[0073] Inclusion of air bladders as cushioning means.
[0074] More rigid plastic or plastic-like profiles may be
incorporated in or around a given collapsible profile.
[0075] FIGS. 9-13 show related, alternative embodiments of a sole
unit having collapsible profiles 214 and 314 for enabling a
cushioning and/or dynamic canting effect as described above. In the
embodiments, collapsible profiles 214 and 314 comprise a torsion
element, a canting means, and opposing force transfer means. The
torsion element 216, 316 is coupled to a hinging 217 means disposed
on the bottom surface of a sole unit. The torsion element has
opposing force transfer means 218, 318 on either side of a canting
means connected to the torsion element. The torsion element may
rotate, at least partially within or about the canting means. Or
the canting means may otherwise facilitate a rotational movement of
the torsion element. Preferably, the force transfer means are
disposed at each end of the torsion element.
[0076] The torsion element generally 216,316 is an elongate
substantially rigid element such as a bar. Generally, the torsion
element should be oriented in the direction of a lateral force
applied that may act on the sole unit. In one suitable embodiment,
the torsion element may be made of, for example, metals or
structural polymers. The torsion element is oriented generally
perpendicular to a midline section of the sole unit. But it may be
oriented at other angles, depending on the direction of the forces
to which it is intended to respond.
[0077] The canting means 217 provides a pivot point or bearing
surface for the torsion element 216, 316, orienting the torsion
element generally perpendicularly to the midline of the sole unit
to which it is attached (in the example shown), and allowing
rotational movement. As one example, the canting means is a sleeve,
ring, ball or socket (with a complementary surface or item being
disposed on the torsion element) for receiving the torsion element.
It may also be a "living hinge", wherein the canting means is
coupled to the torsion element, but provides rotational
movement.
[0078] The force transfer 218, 318 means on opposite sides of the
canting means 217 are connected to or embedded in a portion of
compressibly resilient sole unit material. Preferably, the force
transfer means are disposed on or towards the ends of the torsion
element 216, 316. Generally, the force transfer means comprise a
generally broad area of material attached to or formed on or in the
torsion element. Preferably, the broad area comprises rigid or
substantially rigid, generally planar pads disposed on the ends of
a torsion element. The force transfer means provide an area where a
force may act, with the canting means allowing rotational movement
of the torsion element. In the case of the Embodiment of FIG. 12,
the rotational movement translates the force on one force transfer
means in an opposite direction and effect on the opposite force
transfer means. For example, a generally compressive force on one
side of the midline 22 (which force may have lateral and vertical
components) would tend to compress the sole unit 4, but the canting
means would pull the sole unit at the point of attachment of the
opposite force transfer means. Accordingly this produces a canted
sole unit while the force is applied. If there is equal force on
each side of the midline, there would not be canting. In addition,
by providing a rigid but resilient torsion element with force
transfer means in a lower plane (closer to the ground surface than
the canting means) attachment to the sole unit, under a vertical
force, the torsion element could flex back toward the plane of the
canting means and thereby provide a cushioning effect. In contrast,
to the embodiment of FIG. 12, in the embodiment of FIG. 13, a
vertical force that is offset from the midline would allow equal
cushioning on both sides of the midline, as indicated in FIGS. 9
and 10. This is because as one force transfer means is moved, the
corresponding force transfer means on the opposite side of the
midline moves the same amount in the same direction. Alternatively,
the torsion elements may be of unequal lengths, thus allowing for
differing amounts of movement. In order for any of these effects to
take place, there must be a resilient portion of midsole material
between the force transfer means and the shoe upper, preferably of
a higher density material than the surronding material. This
resilient material effectively preloads the force transfer means.
The force transfer means 218, 318 may be formed of the unit of
material that forms the torsion element 216, 316. Or it may be a
separate unit attached to the torsion element. In an alternative
embodiment, the portions of the torsion elements on opposite sides
of the canting means are integrated into sole unit material, the
region of integration serving as the force transfer means.
[0079] As shown in FIGS. 11-12, the torsion element 316 may be
non-linear and adapted to dispose one force transfer means 318 on
opposite sides of the torsion element, namely one is forward of the
canting means 217 and the other rearward, creating a generally
s-shaped torsion element. In operation the collapsible profiles 314
of FIGS. 11-12 create a dynamic where if one force transfer means
is pushed up, the force transfer means on the other side of the
torsion element pushes the opposite direction (down). Thus vertical
pressures on one side of the shoe are augmented by a corresponding
opposite pressure on the other side of the shoe. This results in
the dynamic canting effect described in relation to FIGS. 1-8.
Looking at FIGS. 9-10, 13, for a given collapsible profile 214, the
force transfer means 218 are located on the same side of the
torsion element 216. FIG. 9 represents a shoe under the static
weight of a user. In FIG. 10, an additional offset vertical force
13 pushes down the portion of the sole unit 4 where a first force
transfer means 218 is disposed. As the first force transfer means
is depressed, the torsion element translates the force of the
opposite side of the canting means 217 to the second force transfer
means 218. Because it is on the same side of the torsion element as
the other force transfer means, it is also depressed into the
portion of the sole unit where it is disposed. This produces the
isotropically compressed sole unit of FIG. 10. Thus the embodiments
of FIGS. 9-13 provide a novel cushioning system, as well as a novel
canting system. In view of the foregoing, persons skilled in the
art will appreciate that the embodiments of FIGS. 9-13 may be used
to provide a sole unit that has tunable cushioning and/or canting
properties. The torsion elements could be replaceable so that
torsion element configurations and force transfer means may be
swapped to provide such tunability. Using torsion elements with
different orientations of force transfer means on opposite sides of
the canting means, a shoe may be tuned to suit the needs of various
sports, including court, field, and running sports.
[0080] In general it will be desirable to dispose the canting means
214,314 at about the midline 22 of the sole unit 4 and force
transfer means 218, 318 for a torsion element 216, 316 are located
on opposite sides of the midline, preferably toward the sides of
the sole unit. This is particularly desirable where the collapsible
profiles are intended to provide canting. However, individual
collapsible profiles may be disposed on opposite sides of the
midline, as described for the collapsible profiles of FIGS. 1-8.
This may be desirable where the collapsible profiles are intended
to provide cushioning.
[0081] The canting means 217 may be disposed on or within a portion
of the sole unit 4. In a possible embodiment, the canting means are
disposed on or in an area of sole unit having a durometer different
from that of one or both portions of the unit at which or in which
a force transfer means is disposed. Preferably, the canting means
is disposed on or within an area of sole unit having a higher
durometer. Such an arrangement promotes the canting effect because
on either side of the canting means the material is relatively more
prone to collapse under force from a lateral cutting movement or
vertical compressive force.
[0082] Additional permutations to embodiments of FIGS. 9-13 may
include any one or more of the following:
[0083] Differing lengths and angles of the parallels, which creates
differential induction of torsion
[0084] Inclusion of elastomers or air under or around the torsion
elements which exert force upon them.
[0085] Torsion elements may be configured to provide/optimize
cushioning.
[0086] Inclusion of a center "high spot" or "low spot" towards the
longitudinal midline of shoe outsole
[0087] A mechanism for adjusting tension and angle of torsion
elements, e.g., replaceable elastomer pads or adjustable air
bladders.
[0088] Incorporation of the torsion elements into midsole material
of a sole unit.
[0089] Force transfer means comprising an abrasion resistant
material or having abrasion resistant material disposed
thereon.
[0090] Various widths and lengths for the torsion element and force
transfer means to control selectably the amount of force applied
across the canting means and the area of the sole unit canted and
or cushioned by such embodiment of a collapsing profile.
[0091] Inclusion of various other combinations of collapsing
profiles as in FIGS. 18, and 17-19.
[0092] Inclusion of air bladders as cushioning means.
[0093] A further embodiment of collapsible profiles in accordance
with the present invention is illustrated in FIGS. 14-16. In
connection with these embodiments, and supplementing the disclosure
hereof, U.S. Pat. No. 6,115,943, is hereby incorporated by
reference, as if set forth in its entirety, for all purposes. The
'943 patent, was invented and is owned by the inventor and owner of
the present patent application. Generally, the embodiments of FIGS.
14-16 are directed to a sole unit 4 with collapsing profiles
414.
[0094] The collapsible profiles of this embodiment comprise
opposing vertical displacement elements 106 preferably with
horizontal displacement elements 108 disposed between the vertical
elements at or near top and/or bottom positions along the opposing
vertical displacement elements At the intersection of the vertical
and horizontal elements are connected canting means 317. The
canting means allow an upper sole unit portion 102 and lower sole
unit portion 104 to be laterally displaceable relative to one other
in response to a lateral force 12, as shown in FIG. 15 and
described in more detail below. The upper and lower horizontal
displacement elements may comprise sections of midsole and/or
outsole between canting means 317. Or they may be separate elements
between the canting means attached to or integrated with the
midsole or outsole.
[0095] The canting means preferably define a rhomboid-like
configuration for the collapsible profile that deforms into a
trapezoidal-like configuration under lateral force.
[0096] The collapsible profiles may optionally include a horizontal
displacement element 108 for anchoring the collapsible profile to
the upper and/or lower plan as portion. Preferably the upper sole
unit portions associated with a collapsible profile is also
displaceable in at least a forward direction relative to the lower
planar portions in response to a vertical force 13. Canting means
317 may facilitate fore and/or aft displacement of upper portion
102 relative to lower portion 104. In one possible embodiment, this
means is a flexure axis at the intersection of the vertical and
horizontal displacement elements. (A flexure axis for such
displacement is taught in U.S. Pat. No. 6,115,943, which has
earlier been incorporated by reference.) The axis may be oriented
in one or more directions. This allows for cushioning concurrent
with the lateral canting.
[0097] For a given collapsible profile 414, a canting effect may be
achieved by arranging the displacements 106 and canting means so
that a pair of canting means 317 on each of the upper portion and
the lower portion are on opposite sides of the midline 22 for the
sole unit with the separation of the bottom pair being greater than
the top pair. As noted, in a preferred embodiment, such arrangement
is found in a rhomboidal to trapezoidal structure, as seen in FIGS.
14-16. Viewed from the side with no forces applied, the rhomboid
may be either substantially vertical or canted forwardly or
rearwardly.
[0098] Notice that the displacement elements 106 and horizontal
displacement elements 104 between the lower canting means 317 form
acute angles 118a and 119 under non-lateral force, as shown in FIG.
14. Under a lateral force 12 applied from the left side of the sole
unit 4 to the right, the lower acute angle 118a on the side on
which the force creates a more acute angle 118b while the angle
119a at the opposite side becomes a more obtuse angle 119b, hence
forming a trapezoidal-like configuration. Consequently, the upper
portion 102 is not only laterally displaced but also canted towards
the side of the sole unit at which the force 12 initiates.
[0099] As is the case for all other embodiments described herein,
the collapsing profile structure of this embodiment is provided
with resilience (either inherent In its own structure, or from the
adjoining midsole elastomers on either or both sides of the
collapsible profile) so that after an acting force 12 or 13 is
removed, the collapsing profile returns to its static position. The
structure may also deform selectively in response to a force with a
vertical component to provide both canting and cushioning. It moves
appreciably fore-aft and laterally, depending on the composite or
singular forces involved.
[0100] The displacement elements 106, 108 of the present invention
may have thin or wide profiles. For example, the displacement
elements may be thin rod-like elements. The collapsible profiles of
such an arrangement may be located at points on a sole unit where
lateral displacement, canting and/or cushioning is desired. In one
possible embodiment, the collapsing elements 414 comprise sole unit
portions 102, 104 and displacement elements 106 are thin or
rod-like elements that are spaced along a rearfoot portion and a
forefoot portion of the sole unit, as shown in FIG. 16. In that
figure, a vertical force 13 compresses the rear portion but not the
forefoot portion. Consequently, the collapsible profiles in the
rear portion are shown angled forward (with a more acute angle)
relative to the ones in the forward portion. Note also that there
should be sufficient clearance between collapsible profiles to
allow for such forward flex. The collapsible profiles may be
contained in a sole unit or portion thereof as separate independent
segments, as indicated by vertical dusted lines. Each segment could
contain one more collapsible profiles along with midsole and/or
outsole materials for the segment. As another example, multiple
collapsible profiles could be contained in a portion of sole unit
that extends some or all the length from rearfoot to forefoot,
without segmentation.
[0101] In another possible embodiment, the displacements 106 and
upper and lower sole portions 102, 104 have wide profiles. For
example, they may take the form of tubelike units having a
transverse cross-section in accordance with the foregoing
description of the relative arrangements of pairs of canting means
in the top and bottom portions (e.g., a rhomboidal cross section).
The upper and lower portions of such a tube-like collapsible
profile could extend any desired length of a sole unit. One or more
such units could be attached at locations where lateral
displacement, canting, and/or cushioning is desired. For example,
the upper portion could extend the length of a foot and serve
directly or indirectly as the surface for attaching a shoe upper.
The lower portion in such embodiment could also extend the length
of the foot and could serve directly or indirectly as the outsole
surface of the shoe, or as a direct or indirect surface for
attaching outsole material. As indicated above relative to
segmentation, it may be noncontiguous on its bottom surface to
allow for differential flexing of the units. Note that the
displacements 106, 108 may be connected or otherwise integrated
into the surface of the top or bottom portions in a variety of
ways. For example the displacements could be formed into a unitary
structure (e.g., incorporating a living hinge) with the upper and
lower portions 102, 104. The upper and lower portions could
comprise some or all of the sole unit 4. In one possible embodiment
the displacement elements 106, 108 comprise rigid polymers such as
Hytrel.TM. and PEBAX.TM., such as may be disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.
5,822,886, which was earlier incorporated by reference. The
collapsing profile 414, or components thereof, may be made from
materials that are extruded, molded, milled, or fabricated in any
other manner which allows for hinging motion of the canting means
between the displacements and the associated top or bottom portions
of the sole units. Other suitable materials include other plastics
(generally of the softer variety, such as UHMW, polypropylene, or
Hytrel.TM. RTM.TM..) metals, and other materials that provide low
compression set, good kinetic memory, pliability, resistance to
temperature, and appropriate rigidity relative to the absorptive
material.
[0102] The canting means 317 may be flexure axes at the points
where the displacements integrate with the top and bottom portions,
for example slits or notches where the displacements join the
surface of a top or bottom surface. Hinging may also be constructed
of ball and socket hinges, linear hinges, or other such known
mechanical devices. Living hinges may also be employed. A damping
means is preferably disposed between the outsole and the upper
between top and bottom surfaces of the collapsing profile or such
material may be disposed between units of collapsible profile. This
damping means may be an elastomer, gas, or an gas/elastomer blend.
This could be tunable, with replaceable elastomer cartridges or
adjustable air bladders.
[0103] In embodiments with a canting means that affords fore and/or
aft displacement, when vertical pressure is applied, the lower
portion moves rearward in relation to the upper portion, providing
cushioning. When lateral pressure is applied, the lateral hinges
flex or shift, allowing for the novel canting dynamic of the
present invention. The degree to which this happens may be
modulated by the damping means incorporated in the midsole.
[0104] The embodiment of FIG. 14 is shown under a static vertical
force 13. FIG. 15 shows the embodiment under a lateral force
applied from the medial side to lateral side of the sole unit. FIG.
16 shows the sole unit reacting to a force with a substantial
vertical component on the rear portion of the sole unit. Note the
forward position of the top of the rhomboidal structures (due to
compressive forces) relative to those in the forefoot portion,
which are not under the vertical force.
[0105] Notably, from the foregoing it should be apparent that the
present invention overcomes the disadvantages of traditional,
materials and configurations for sole units. For example, such
materials are often amorphous or uniform foams or rubbers that do
not provide the selective deformability of the present invention.
Further the prior art does not teach how to use such materials for
effective selective deformability. In contrast the present
invention provides the option of using such materials and others in
the novel structures for the selectively deformable collapsible
profiles disclosed herein.
[0106] Additional variations and permutations to embodiments of
FIGS. 14-16 may include any one or more of the following:
[0107] Adjustment means for modulating the amount of cushioning in
the damping means, e.g., replaceable elastomer cartridges or
adjustable air bladders.
[0108] Unitary or separate and upper and lower sole unit portions
and displacement elements disposed therebetween.
[0109] Independent or separate foresole and rearsole portions that
allow for differential flexing and/or orientation.
[0110] Net movement of the shoe outsole upon vertical compression
may be either fore or aft relative to the uppers.
[0111] Inclusion of various other combinations of collapsing
profiles as in FIGS. 1-13.
[0112] The designs in FIGS. 14-16 may exclude horizontal
displacement elements members on the top or bottom. Outsole may or
may not bridge between the side members.
[0113] Other variations that may be applicable to the one or more
of the embodiments of FIGS. 1-19 are as follows:
[0114] Collapsible profiles may include a combination of slits and
elastomers, or the slits may be indentations and/or fold lines.
[0115] The overall contour of the profiles (as viewed from the
either end) may be slightly arcuate--domed, concave, or
v-shaped.
[0116] Variable pressure air channels may communicate between
various profiles and serve as stability as well as cushioning by
differentially pressurizing key areas.
[0117] Profiles may include an outsole, or have none whatsoever.
Any combination of the designs outlined in the application may be
used in various combinations.
[0118] During manufacture, the outsole may be applied in one piece,
with cut-outs for the voids between profiles. The cut-out may then
be popped out and recycled. This serves to stabilize the outsole
and profiles during gluing.
[0119] A variety of matrix-type materials such as honeycombs (such
as Hexalite tm) and parallelogram channels can be used to
differentially flex and provide the same anisotropic dynamic as the
profiles and slit/variable elastomer combinations.
[0120] Skeletal pieces of higher-durometer plastic or stiffer
material (than the adjoining profile material) may reside within a
plurality of profiles, effectively giving more of a framework for
the profiles to flex around, thus enhancing hinging and stability
by serving as defined zones of flexure and relative rigidity.
[0121] The foregoing embodiments and features are for illustrative
purposes. Persons of ordinary skill in the art will recognize the
foregoing description and embodiments are not limitations, but
examples. Such persons will recognize, in particular, that many
modifications and variations are possible in the details,
materials, and arrangements of the parts and steps which have been
described and illustrated in order to explain the nature of this
invention, and that such modifications and variations do not depart
from the spirit and scope of the teachings and claims contained
herein.
* * * * *