U.S. patent application number 10/660119 was filed with the patent office on 2005-07-28 for soccer shoe component or insert made of one material and/or a composite and/or laminate of one or more materials for enhancing the performance of the soccer shoe.
Invention is credited to Perron, J. Edward JR..
Application Number | 20050160630 10/660119 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34799564 |
Filed Date | 2005-07-28 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050160630 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Perron, J. Edward JR. |
July 28, 2005 |
Soccer shoe component or insert made of one material and/or a
composite and/or laminate of one or more materials for enhancing
the performance of the soccer shoe
Abstract
An insert for soccer shoes absorbs and store energy from the
foot at foot-strike and return some of this energy to the object
being struck. The insert may also cushion the foot, leg and body;
provide foot stability and motion control; reduce fatigue; extend
the float time of a runner and increase the jump height of the
wearer. The insert is intended to absorb, store and return energy
to the object struck, which would otherwise lost using the existing
shoe components and inserts. The insert preferably extends around
the periphery of the front of the shoe and extends longitudinally
as well from the front of the shoe towards the back of the shoe, at
least to about the middle of the shoe, and preferably proximate the
heel of the shoe.
Inventors: |
Perron, J. Edward JR.;
(Metairie, LA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
GARVEY SMITH NEHRBASS & DOODY, LLC
THREE LAKEWAY CENTER
3838 NORTH CAUSEWAY BLVD., SUITE 3290
METAIRIE
LA
70002
|
Family ID: |
34799564 |
Appl. No.: |
10/660119 |
Filed: |
September 11, 2003 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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60409383 |
Sep 11, 2002 |
|
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60409386 |
Sep 11, 2002 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
36/133 ;
36/128 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A43B 17/003 20130101;
A43B 5/02 20130101; A43B 13/026 20130101; A43B 13/187 20130101;
A43B 13/12 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
036/133 ;
036/128 |
International
Class: |
A43B 005/02 |
Claims
1. A performance enhancing shoe component for a soccer shoe, the
soccer shoe comprising a shoe upper and at least a sole secured to
the upper such that a wearer's foot is positioned within the upper
and above the sole, the shoe having a front and a periphery of the
front, a middle, a back, and a heel; the component comprising one
or more preformed objects embedded in an outsole body, or the
component constituting the entire outsole body, the component
causing a soccer shoe in which the component forms a part to
operate to deflect, without permanent deformation, in response to
an applied load creating a deflecting stress and then to return to
its original shape upon removal of the applied load causing the
deflecting stress, the component operating to absorb, redistribute
and store the energy of localized loads applied thereto through
deflection and, by returning to its original shape, to return
energy to an object struck by the shoe in such manner so as to
impart to the struck object applying the load some portion of the
energy produced by the applied load; the component extending around
the periphery of the front of the shoe and extending longitudinally
from the front of the shoe towards the back of the shoe, at least
to about the middle of the shoe.
2. The performance enhancing shoe component of claim 1, wherein the
component extends to proximate the heel of the shoe.
3. The performance enhancing shoe component of claims 1, wherein
the component is made of only one type of material.
4. The performance enhancing shoe component of claims 1, wherein
the component is made of a composite of one or more types of
material.
5. The performance enhancing shoe component of claims 1, wherein
the component is made of a laminate of one or more types of
material.
6. The performance enhancing shoe component of claim 1, wherein the
component has one or more shapes in one or more locations within
the outsole body depending upon the particular performance
enhancing characteristics desired by the wearer.
7. A performance enhancing shoe component for a soccer shoe, the
soccer shoe comprising a shoe upper, a sole secured to the upper
such that a wearer's foot is positioned within the upper and above
the sole, and a midsole which is located between the wearer's foot
and the sole, the shoe having a front and a periphery of the front,
a middle, a back, and a heel; the component including one or more
preformed objects embedded in the midsole, or the component
comprising the midsole, the component causing a soccer shoe in
which the component forms a part to operate to deflect, without
permanent deformation, in response to an applied load creating a
deflecting stress and then to return to its original shape upon
removal of the applied load causing the deflecting stress, the
component operating to absorb, redistribute and store the energy of
localized loads applied thereto through deflection and, by
returning to its original shape, to return energy to an object
struck by the shoe in such manner so as to impart to the struck
object applying the load some portion of the energy produced by the
applied load; the component extending around the periphery of the
front of the shoe and extending longitudinally from the front of
the shoe towards the back of the shoe, at least to about the middle
of the shoe.
8. The performance enhancing shoe component of claim 7, wherein the
component extends to proximate the heel of the shoe.
9. The performance enhancing shoe component of claim 7, wherein the
component is added as part of the manufacturing process of a new
shoe.
10. The performance enhancing shoe component of claim 7, wherein
the component is made of only one type of material.
11. The performance enhancing shoe component of claim 7, wherein
the component is made of a composite of one or more types of
material.
12. The performance enhancing shoe component of claim 7, wherein
the component is made of a laminate of one or more types of
material.
13. The performance enhancing shoe component of claim 7, wherein
the component has one or more shapes in one or more locations
within the outsole body depending upon the particular performance
enhancing characteristics desired by the wearer.
14. A performance enhancing shoe insert for a soccer shoe, the
soccer shoe comprising a shoe upper and at least a sole secured to
the upper such that periphery of the front, a middle, a back, and a
heel; the insert comprising one or more preformed objects embedded
in an insole, or the component constituting the entire insole, the
insert causing a soccer shoe in which the insert forms a part to
operate to deflect, without permanent deformation, in response to
an applied load creating a deflecting stress and then to return to
its original shape upon removal of the applied load causing the
deflecting stress, the insert operating to absorb, redistribute and
store the energy of localized loads applied thereto through
deflection and, by returning to its original shape, to return
energy to an object struck by the shoe in such manner so as to
impart to the struck object applying the load some portion of the
energy produced by the applied load; the insert extending around
the periphery of the front of the shoe and extending longitudinally
from the front of the shoe towards the back of the shoe, at least
to about the middle of the shoe.
15. The performance enhancing shoe insert of claim 14, wherein the
insert extends to proximate the heel of the shoe.
16. The performance enhancing shoe insert of claim 14, wherein the
insert is added after the shoe has been manufactured and sold.
17. The performance enhancing shoe component of claim 14, wherein
the component is made of only one type of material.
18. The performance enhancing shoe component of 14, wherein the
component is made of a composite of one or more types of
material.
19. The performance enhancing shoe component of claim 14, wherein
the component is made of a laminate of one or more types of
material.
20. The performance enhancing shoe component of claim 14, wherein
the component has one or more shapes in one or more locations
within the outsole body depending upon the particular performance
enhancing characteristics desired by the wearer.
21. A soccer shoe including the insert of claim 1.
22. A soccer shoe including the component of claim 1.
23. (canceled)
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] Priority of my U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. Nos.
60/409,383 and 60/409,386 both filed on Sep. 11, 2002, incorporated
herein by reference, is hereby claimed.
STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
[0002] Not applicable
REFERENCE TO A "MICROFICHE APPENDIX"
[0003] Not applicable
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0004] 1. Field of the Invention
[0005] The present invention relates to the field of performance
enhancing shoe components or inserts for use in conjunction with
various types of foot-ware. More particularly, the present
invention relates to the field of performance enhancing shoe
components or inserts which absorb and store energy of local loads
and forces, through elastic deformation, and then return the energy
to the shoe wearer, or to an object struck by a shoe, in useful
form as the load is removed.
[0006] 2. General Background of the Invention
[0007] There is a high demand for athletic equipment which enhances
the performance of athletes. At all levels of athletic competition,
small improvements in performance can be the difference between
success and failure. At the highest levels of athletics, the
difference of a few tenths or hundredths of a second is all that
separates the elite athlete from the ordinary. For this reason,
equipment which improves performance even slightly, will be desired
in high demand. The newer materials used in tennis racket
construction or golf club shafts are examples of equipment which
improves performance by absorbing and storing energy, then returns
this energy in a useful form as the load is removed.
[0008] This high demand for performance enhancing athletic
equipment includes the art of athletic shoes and shoe components.
Most recent improvements in athletic shoes or athletic shoe
components have been made for aesthetic reasons or for comfort or
to reduce weight. Few changes in athletic shoes or their components
have been for meaningful increases in athletic performance. Present
athletic shoes and their components fail to provide an energy
return to the wearer. Neither do they absorb energy and return
energy to a ball or object struck by the shoe.
[0009] 3. Description of Prior Art
[0010] Athletic shoes typically comprise a fabric, leather or
synthetic upper, an outsole including a treaded or cleated lower
surface, and a midsole positioned between the outsole and the foot
of the wearer. There may also be an insole positioned between the
outsole and the foot of the wearer. If the shoe is not manufactured
with an insole, a wearer may add an insole or replace the midsole
with an insole.
[0011] The midsole of a conventional athletic shoe is generally
formed from a flexible, resilient, relatively soft material in
order to absorb shock that results from impact of the shoe with the
ground. A typical outsole is made of a higher density, tougher,
more rigid material in order to protect the shoe from degradation
and to support the foot. The outsole must also be flexible in order
to facilitate ease of movement of the foot during certain athletic
motions.
[0012] The following U.S. Patents are incorporated herein by
reference:
[0013] U.S. Pat. Nos.: 4,454,662, 4,506,460, 5,203,793, 5,452,526,
5,572,804, 5,695,850 5,960,566, 6,120,880, 6,205,683,
6,485,661.
[0014] U.S. Pat. No. 5,572,804 discloses an inner sole for an
athletic shoe that can have many degrees of stiffness, by the
application of multiple inserts into the sole.
[0015] U.S. Pat. No. 5,452,526 discloses a soccer shoe with an
outsole stiffener; the stiffening inserts are molded into the outer
sole.
[0016] U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,120,880 and 5,694,850 disclose placing
inserts into various portions of the insole of an athletic shoe to
enhance performance.
[0017] U.S. Pat. No. 6,205,683 discloses placing a torsional insert
within the inner sole of an athletic shoe.
[0018] U.S. Pat. No. 4,454,662 of 1984 issued to Stubblefield adds
stiffening components to the arch and heel portions of the shoe.
The present invention adds flexible components to just the front or
to the front and outside edges of the shoe. The present invention
may provide some measure of arch support, but little or no heel
support. The shoe/sole/insert of an embodiment of the present
invention will have a shape, location and function significantly
different than the stiffening components in this patent.
[0019] There are numerous articles of footwear in the prior art in
which inserts and shoe components are present in order to provide
comfort, stability or support for the foot. For example, U.S. Pat.
No. 4,506,460 of 1985 issued to Rudy describes moderators and
stabilizers located under the forefoot and heel. The purpose of
these moderators and stabilizers is to cushion shock forces,
provide improved support, control and stability, store energy and
return energy to the wearer. These moderators and stabilizers are
located under and vertically alongside the forefoot and heel of the
wearer. The present invention's primary location will be the toe of
the shoe with little or nothing supporting the heel and forefoot.
The shoe/sole/insert of embodiments of the present invention will
primarily be horizontally flat or slightly curved with little or no
vertical element alongside the forefoot and heel. The
shoe/sole/insert of embodiments of the present invention can differ
in shape and location within the shoe.
[0020] U.S. Pat. No. 5,452,526 of 1995 issued to Collins describes
a two-part stiffener, the first portion of which stiffens the waist
or shank of the outsole; and the second portion both stiffens and
provides resiliency to the forepart of the of the outsole. The
purpose of this two-part stiffener is to provide physical
properties which are selected for the appropriate use of the shoe
and to provide comfort to the wearer. These stiffeners operate to
stiffen the shank or waist of the outsole and a fore part of the
outsole in response to transverse flexure of the user's foot at the
ball of the foot. These stiffeners are relatively complex in shape
and located in various places throughout the outsole and arranged
in a manner to resist flexure about the longitudinal axis of the
shoe. The shoe/sole/insert of embodiments of the present invention
will provide resilience primarily in response to vertical flexure
of the user's foot at the toe, or even in front of the toe, and to
a lesser extent, in response to some transverse flexure only at the
outside edge of the foot. The shoe/sole/insert of embodiments of
the present invention will have relatively simple shapes with a
location farther forward and whose function is not lateral support,
but a vertical return to its original shape.
[0021] U.S. Pat. No. 5,572,804 issued to Skaja et al. in 1996
details method of construction of shoe midsole components from a
flexible high polymer resin. These shoe sole components are formed
from two sheets of thermoplastic resin, with each sheet consisting
of different materials having different properties and containing
varying shapes and sizes of support members. These support members
comprise inwardly directed indentations in each sheet of the
thermoplastic resin which must be precisely aligned with the
matching indentation. The shoe/sole/insert of embodiments of the
present invention will not be restricted to only the midsole, nor
will it consist of a plurality of shaped protrusions scattered
throughout the midsole component material. The present invention
can preferably be a thin, flat or slightly curved object consisting
of a single or very few individual sizes and shapes extending to
the front and side edges of the shoe outsole or midsole or inserted
insole. Only if the present invention is hollow will it be
important to more precisely match various protrusions or
indentations.
[0022] U.S. Pat. No. 5,695,850 issued to Crow in 1997 is a
performance shoe component consisting of 1,4-polybutadiene and a
natural or synthetic rubber. This shoe component is most
advantageously placed beneath the ball of the foot. The purpose of
that location is to improve the wearer's ability to leap higher or
run faster or provide cushioning. The shoe/sole/insert of
embodiments of the present invention will be most advantageously
placed under and possibly beyond the front edges and outside edges
of the shoe. This location is intended to maximize the absorption
of energy and to return a portion of this energy to the object
struck.
[0023] U.S. Pat. No. 5,960,566 issued to Brown in 1999 and U.S.
Pat. No. 6,485,661 issued to Brown in 2002 both consist of a
composite material orthotic insert configured to enhance control
over the motions of the foot within the shoe. The stated purpose of
the insert is to control the movements of certain joints of the
foot during walking and running. This orthotic insert is positioned
under the heel and forefoot. The shape and position of the insert
and its purpose in the aforementioned patent is clearly
distinguishable from the shoe/sole/insert of embodiments of the
present invention.
[0024] U.S. Pat. No. 6,120,880 issued to Crow in 2000 is a
continuation of U.S. Pat. No. 5,695,850. The characteristics which
distinguish the present invention from this patent are the same as
those outlined above.
[0025] U.S. Pat. No. 6,205,683 issued to Clark et al. in 2001 is
for an insole board which includes a shock diffusion plate located
under the heel and midfoot. The location, shape and purpose of the
shoe/sole/insert of embodiments of the present invention are
clearly distinguishable.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0026] The prior art does not anticipate the basic concepts of the
present invention. The present invention will absorb and store
energy from the foot at foot-strike and return some of this energy
to the object being struck. The present invention, incidentally,
may also cushion the foot, leg and body; provide foot stability and
motion control; reduce fatigue; extend the float time of a runner
and increase the jump height of the wearer. The present invention
is intended to absorb, store and return energy to the object
struck, which would otherwise be lost using the existing shoe
components and inserts.
[0027] The present invention can comprise essentially a
light-weight flat, or slightly curved, thin unitary object made of
a flexible material or materials, which can be integrated into a
shoe's outsole and/or midsole and/or insole. The object may extend
from the heel or arch of the foot to or beyond the toes of the
foot. The object may even curve over the toe, producing a cap,
which extends beyond and over the top of the toes. The object may
take various shapes dependent upon the wearer's preferences and
intended use.
[0028] The intent of the present invention is to provide shoe
components which impart energy into the object struck. It is a
feature of some embodiments of the present invention that it be
placed as far forward and/or laterally as reasonable, in order that
the ability to effectively use the shoe for purposes other than
striking the object, is not significantly compromised.
[0029] The intent of the shoe component of the present invention is
that a struck object travel faster and/or further than would be
possible without this shoe component. Placing the present invention
at the farthest end of the arc of the kicking leg and foot would
consequently enable the maximum amount of absorption of energy by
the component of the present invention. The more energy absorbed,
the more energy would be available to transfer to the struck
object.
[0030] The present invention may also provide more comfort to the
wearer. Energy absorbed by the present invention will decrease the
energy absorbed by the bones, muscles, joints, ligaments and
tendons of the toes, leg and foot. This would reduce physical
fatigue and/or pain. Using the present invention's energy return
characteristics may also increase the ability of the wearer to jump
higher, or to run faster by increasing the wearer's stride length.
These shoe components may improve athletic performance in a variety
of athletic endeavors.
[0031] The material or materials used in the manufacture and the
shape or shapes of the present invention and the location of the
present invention within the shoe may be varied depending upon the
wearer's intended use. Specific applications may include increased
comfort and foot stability, better motion control, an increase in
energy efficiency, a decrease in fatigue and risk of injury and
many other desired advantages.
[0032] The primary material for the components of the present
invention will preferably be graphite and carbon, with more
graphite than carbon. A ratio of 10% carbon to 90% graphite will be
stiffer than a ratio of 20% carbon to 80% graphite. The graphite
fibers may be unidirectional, on a bias or woven. The present
invention may be 100% carbon or 100% graphite, or some combination
of the two; this material(s) may be laminated or combined with
another material or other materials. There may be no graphite or
carbon in the components of the present invention, but one or both
of these are the primary materials used in the shafts of modern
golf clubs and tennis rackets. The technology which has been
recently been employed to increase the distance a golf ball travels
when struck with the newer golf clubs; or the increase in velocity
of a tennis ball struck by the newer tennis rackets, is a
technology which can be used with the present invention. Other
materials used in tennis rackets include kevlar, fiberglass and
titanium. Golf club shafts are usually graphite or metal. The
graphite, titanium and metal may be alloys. The components of the
present invention can be made of the material or combinations of
materials, whether in composite or laminate form, used in the
construction of newer models of tennis rackets and golf club
shafts.
[0033] The present invention includes a performance enhancing shoe
component for a soccer shoe, the soccer shoe comprising a shoe
upper and at least a sole secured to the upper such that a wearer's
foot is positioned within the upper and above the sole, which
incorporates one or more preformed objects embedded in an outsole
body, or which constitutes the entire outsole; the component of the
present invention will operate to deflect, without permanent
deformation, in response to an applied load creating a deflecting
stress and then to return to its original shape upon removal of the
applied load causing the deflecting stress, the component of the
present invention operating to absorb, redistribute and store the
energy of localized loads applied thereto through deflection and,
by returning to its original shape, to return energy to the wearer
and/or to an object struck by the shoe in such manner so as to
impart to the struck object applying the load some portion of the
energy produced by the applied load; the component can be made of
one type of material or of a composite of one or more type of
materials. For example, the component can be made of a laminate of
one or more type of materials. The performance enhancing shoe
component can have one or more shapes in one or more locations
within the outsole shoe component depending upon the particular
performance enhancing characteristics desired by the wearer.
[0034] The present invention includes a performance enhancing
soccer shoe component for a soccer shoe which comprises a shoe
upper and at least two soles, one of which is the outsole secured
to the upper and a midsole which is located between the wearer's
foot and the outsole. This midsole can incorporate one or more
preformed objects embedded in the midsole material, or the
component can constitutes the entire midsole, and it also operates
to deflect, without permanent deformation. This midsole can be
added as part of the manufacturing process of the new shoe. This
performance enhancing shoe component can include a midsole made of
one type of material; alternatively, the midsole can be a composite
of one or more type of materials--in such a case, it could be made
of a laminate of one or more type of materials. The component can
have one or more shapes in one or more locations within the midsole
depending upon the particular performance enhancing characteristics
desired by the wearer.
[0035] The present invention includes a performance enhancing
soccer shoe insert which can be placed between the outsole and/or
midsole and the wearer's foot. This inserted insole can contain one
or more preformed objects embedded in the insole material, or the
insert can constitute the entire insole, and it also operates in a
manner consistent with previously described embodiments of the
invention. This "after market" inserted insole can be added after
the shoe has been manufactured and sold. The insole can be made of
one type of material, or it can be made of a composite of one or
more type of materials, in which case it could be made of a
laminate of one or more type of materials. The components in the
insole can have one or more shapes in one or more locations within
the shoe insert depending upon the particular performance
characteristics desired by the wearer.
[0036] The present invention also includes a soccer shoe including
the component or the insert of any embodiment of the present
invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS
[0037] For a further understanding of the nature, objects, and
advantages of the present invention, reference should be had to the
following detailed description, read in conjunction with the
following drawings, wherein like reference numerals denote like
elements and wherein:
[0038] FIG. 1 is a side view of a preferred embodiment of the
apparatus of the present invention;
[0039] FIG. 2 is a top view of a preferred embodiment of the
apparatus of the present invention;
[0040] FIG. 3 is a bottom view of a preferred embodiment of the
apparatus of the present invention;
[0041] FIG. 5 is a top or bottom view of a midsole or inserted
insole illustrating an embodiment of the present invention as the
entire outsole midsole or insole;
[0042] FIGS. 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10 are top or bottom views of the
outsole/midsole/insole insert illustrating alternative embodiments
of the present invention;
[0043] FIG. 11 is a cross section of a toe of a soccer shoe showing
the shoe and an embodiment of the present invention located within
the shoe outsole;
[0044] FIG. 12 is a cross section of the heel of a shoe and an
embodiment of the present invention located within the outsole;
[0045] FIG. 13 is a cross section of a toe of a shoe showing an
embodiment of the present invention of the present invention
located within the midsole of the shoe; and
[0046] FIG. 14 is a cross section of the heel of a shoe showing an
embodiment of the present invention located within the midsole of
the shoe.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0047] The athletic shoe shown for illustrative purposes is a
soccer shoe even though the present invention may be used in other
types of athletic or any other type of shoe. The soccer shoe shown
in FIG. 1 is of generally conventional form. The shoe 1 has an
upper 2 made of leather or similar material, with a tongue 3 and
laces 4. The shoe FIG. 1 has an outsole 5 and a midsole 6 either or
both of which may incorporate an embodiment of the present
invention. The outsole 5 also incorporates molded or screw threaded
studs or cleats 8 which come in contact with the ground when the
shoe 1 is worn.
[0048] FIG. 2 is a top view of a shoe midsole 6 with an
illustration of a component 7 of an embodiment of the present
invention. This midsole 6 is worn between the foot and the outsole
5. The material 10 surrounding the shoe midsole of an embodiment of
the present invention may consist of air, gas, foam rubber or other
cushioning material.
[0049] FIG. 3 is a bottom view of a shoe outsole 5 illustrating a
component 17 of an embodiment of the present invention embedded in
the outsole 5.
[0050] FIG. 4 is a top view of a shoe insole insert 9 including a
component 27 of an embodiment of the present invention. Insert 9
can be inserted in an otherwise standard soccer shoe after the shoe
is manufactured and purchased.
[0051] FIG. 5 is both a top or bottom view of an outsole 15, a
midsole 16, or an inserted insole 19 illustrating an embodiment of
the present invention where the entire outsole 15, midsole 16 or
insole 19 is made of stiff material of the present invention.
[0052] FIGS. 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10 are top or bottom views of the
outsole/midsole/insole insert illustrating alternative embodiments
of the present invention, namely components 37, 47, 57, 67, and 77,
respectively, with material 10 surrounding them or, when these
components are embedded in the outsole, any standard commercially
available outsole material is used in place of material 10.
[0053] FIG. 11 is a cross section of the toe of shoe 1 showing the
shoe upper 2 and component 7 of an embodiment of the present
invention (or any other component shown in FIGS. 2-10) located
within the shoe outsole 5.
[0054] FIG. 12 is a cross section of the heel of the shoe 1 and
component 7 of an embodiment of the present invention (or any other
component shown in FIGS. 2-10) located within the shoe outsole
5.
[0055] FIG. 13 is a cross section of the toe of a shoe 1 showing
component 7 of an embodiment of the present invention (or any other
component shown in FIGS. 2-10) of the present invention of the
present invention located within the midsole 6 of the shoe.
[0056] FIG. 14 is a cross section of the heel of the shoe 1 showing
component 7 of an embodiment of the present invention (or any other
component shown in FIGS. 2-10) within the midsole 6 of the
shoe.
[0057] FIGS. 13 and 14 may also be used to illustrate a cross
section of an embodiment of the present invention located within an
insole inserted into the shoe.
[0058] In the drawings the shoe sole/insert of the present
invention is shown in striped lines whether located in the outsole,
midsole, or as part of an inserted insole. The components of the
present invention can be manufactured into the outsole and/or the
midsole. If the component is manufactured into the outsole, the
material may be a color different from the outsole. This different
color would be desirable to distinguish the shoe from shoes without
the components of the present invention in the outsole. The insert
of an embodiment of the present invention may also be incorporated
into an innersole, which is inserted into the shoe at some point
after the manufacture of the other components of the shoe.
[0059] The shoe sole/insert of an embodiment of the present
invention can be made of one material, or of a combination of
natural and/or man-made materials. The choice of material or
combination of materials, the shape of the materials, and the
location of the component within the shoe can be determined by the
wearer's desire to optimize specific performance enhancing
characteristics of the shoe. The primary specific characteristic of
the shoe sole/insert of the present invention is to efficiently
return energy that would be wasted without the shoe sole/insert of
the present invention. In response to an applied load, such as
kicking a ball or striking the ground, the shoe sole/insert of the
present invention will temporarily deform. Upon removal of the
applied load, or a progressive reduction of the applied load, the
shoe sole/insert of the present invention will return to its
original shape. This absorption of energy and the return of
otherwise wasted energy to the wearer and/or to the object struck
by the shoe of the wearer is the essential performance enhancing
characteristic of the present invention. Other applications of the
present invention may include lighter weight, more comfort, less
fatigue, more stability, less injury risk, better foot control,
better foot support, or even better outward appearance of the
shoe.
[0060] The shoe sole/insert of an embodiment of the present
invention should have a relatively high tensile strength. The
material or materials should also be elastic and have a strong
tendency to return to an unstressed state once it is free from the
stress of impact. The material or materials should also possess
good fatigue resistance so that it will withstand repeated cycles
of deforming when stressed and rebounding when the stress is
removed. The material or materials may be a composite or be
laminated in order to achieve desired combinations of the specific
applications of the shoe. The material should have a modulus of
elasticity of at least 250,000 psi. Typical materials are high
modulus plastics such as polycarbonate materials (modulus of
300,000), ABS injected molded plastic, fiberglass composites
(modulus of 3,000,000), graphite composites (modulus of 9,000,000),
carbon composites, and various types of steel.
[0061] The shoe sole/insert of the present invention should be
lightweight and thin. The thickness may be constant or may vary
depending upon the desires and the intended use of the wearer. The
cross sectional thickness of the present invention will vary,
dependent upon the material used and the wearer's desires, but the
thickness is preferably in the range of 0.005 inch to 0.10 inch.
The shoe sole/insert of the present invention may also be hollow.
The shoe sole/insert of the present invention may extend the length
of the foot, it may be shorter or longer than the foot, or extend
beyond or over the heel and/or toes of the foot. The shoe
sole/insert of the present invention may be flat or round and/or
any shape or combination of shapes, the surface may be flat,
curved, grooved or corrugated. The shoe sole/insert of the present
invention may consist of one or more parts, which may be connected
or function independent of each other.
[0062] The shoe sole/insert of an embodiment of the present
invention may be incorporated into the outsole and/or midsole
and/or insole during the manufacturing process. The manufacturer
may also leave a pocket or space in the outsole and/or midsole
and/or insole for a separately manufactured component of the
present invention. This would allow individual choice of a variety
of materials or shapes in the wearer's discretion. The same shoe
may then be able to accommodate a broad range of stiffer or more
flexible shapes so that the wearer can snap the desired component
into the pocket or space, then remove it at will, and snap in
another variant of the component as desired.
[0063] While the foregoing description has referred particularly to
soles for soccer shoes (and is preferably used with soccer shoes),
the invention is also applicable to articles of footwear, whether
athletic footwear or not, and both with and without studs. For
example, the invention can be applied to casual or dress shoes, to
tennis shoes and training shoes.
[0064] All measurements disclosed herein are at standard
temperature and pressure, at sea level on Earth, unless indicated
otherwise. All materials used or intended to be used in a human
being are biocompatible, unless indicated otherwise.
[0065] The foregoing embodiments are presented by way of example
only; the scope of the present invention is to be limited only by
the following claims.
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