U.S. patent application number 10/558884 was filed with the patent office on 2006-11-16 for dorsiflexion shoe.
This patent application is currently assigned to SPRINGBOOST S.A.. Invention is credited to Behrouz Bayat, Joerg Fuchslocher.
Application Number | 20060254093 10/558884 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 33490739 |
Filed Date | 2006-11-16 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060254093 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Fuchslocher; Joerg ; et
al. |
November 16, 2006 |
Dorsiflexion shoe
Abstract
A high performance dorsiflexion shoe has a sole and a
constraining device above the metatarsal-phalangeal joint. The sole
has a ground-contacting surface, a forefoot region, a midfoot
region and a heel portion. The forefoot region is made of a high
density material, and has a thickness, measured in a direction
perpendicular to the ground-contacting surface of the sole, greater
than the thickness of the heel portion, thereby defining a
characteristic angle of declination from the forefoot region to the
heel portion. The constraining device substantially constrains a
wearer's metatarsal-phalangeal joints from movement when
exercising. The forefoot region has a curved form defined so as to
further minimize flexion of the metatarsal-phalangeal joint.
Inventors: |
Fuchslocher; Joerg; (Lonay,
CH) ; Bayat; Behrouz; (Lausanne, CH) |
Correspondence
Address: |
MOETTELI & ASSOCIATES SARL
ST. LEONHARDSTRASSE 4
ST. GALLEN
CH-9000
CH
|
Assignee: |
SPRINGBOOST S.A.
Commugny
CH
|
Family ID: |
33490739 |
Appl. No.: |
10/558884 |
Filed: |
February 6, 2004 |
PCT Filed: |
February 6, 2004 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/IB04/01887 |
371 Date: |
November 29, 2005 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60474910 |
Jun 2, 2003 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
36/103 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A43B 21/265 20130101;
A43B 13/188 20130101; A43B 7/22 20130101; A43B 7/1465 20130101;
A43B 13/145 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
036/103 |
International
Class: |
A43B 13/00 20060101
A43B013/00 |
Claims
1. A high performance dorsiflexion shoe for enveloping a foot (40)
of a wearer, including the wearer's metatarsal-phalangeal joint
(20), the shoe comprising (a) a sole portion (24) having a
ground-contacting surface (26), a forefoot region (30), a midfoot
region (32) and a heel portion (34), and (b) a constraining device
(16) above the metatarsal-phalangeal joint; wherein the forefoot
region is made of a high density material, and has a thickness,
measured in a direction perpendicular to the ground-contacting
surface of the sole portion, greater than the thickness of the heel
portion, thereby defining a dorsiflexion shoe having a
characteristic angle (a) of declination from the forefoot region to
the heel portion; wherein the constraining device substantially
constrains a wearer's metatarsal-phalangeal joints from movement
when exercising, and wherein the forefoot region has a curved form
defined so as to further minimize flexion of the
metatarsal-phalangeal joint during walking or running.
2. The shoe of claim 1, wherein the sole portion (24) is a
component of a shell (12) which includes sidewall portions (22)
extending upwardly from the sole portion to a circumferential edge
(13) which surrounds the wearer's foot (40).
3. The shoe of claim 2, wherein the circumferential edge (13) is
higher in the heel region (34) than in the forefoot region (30),
thus giving the outward appearance of a plantarflex shoe.
4. The shoe of claim 1, wherein the forefoot region (30) includes
at least one hard, high density insert (66, 162, 180, 182, 184,
186, 190) formed to follow the curvature of the sole portion
(24).
5. The shoe of claim 4, wherein the at least one insert (66, 162,
180, 182, 184, 186, 190) includes reinforcing ribs (90).
6. The shoe of claim 4, wherein the at least one insert (66, 162,
180, 182, 184, 186, 190) includes slits (200) for defining the
bending moment of inertia of the insert.
7. The shoe of claim 4, wherein the at least one insert (66, 162)
extends from the forefoot region (30) to the midfoot region
(32).
8. The shoe of claim 4, wherein the at least one insert (66, 162,
180) extends from the forefoot region (30) to an area adjacent the
cuniform bones of the wearer.
9. The shoe of claim 4, wherein the at least one insert (184, 186,
190) extends from the forefoot region (30) to the heel portion
(34).
10. The shoe of claim 5, wherein the ribs (90) pass through a
softer endo layer (92) and thus, present an exposed surface
(91).
11. The shoe of claim 10, wherein the at least one insert (66, 162,
180, 182, 184, 186, 190) is molded of a color different from the
sole, so as to prominently expose the form of the ribs (90) on an
outside surface (91) of the shoe (10).
12. The shoe of claim 1, wherein the angle (a) of declination is
within the range of 1 degree to 15 degrees, preferably 5
degrees.
13. The shoe of claim 1 wherein the forefoot region (30) includes a
reinforced, padded toe portion (64).
14. The shoe of claim 1, wherein the heel portion (34) is
substantially comprised of a low density, viscous-like
material.
15. The shoe of claim 1 wherein the forefoot region (30) has a
varying thickness defining a ground contact surface (26) of a
curved form which mimics the function of natural
metatarsal-phalangeal flexion.
16. The shoe of claim 11, wherein the curved form includes a
straight portion, extending approximately from the heel portion
(34) to the forefoot region (30), and a curved portion (28),
substantially tangentially extending from the straight portion, and
then curving upward about the toe.
17. An adaptable shoe assembly wherein the assembly includes: a
shoe having a sole portion (24) of a pre-determined angle of
inclination, adapted to receive an interchangeable insole (104,
104'); and at least one insole which inserts into the shoe, the
assembly changing the posture of a wearer's foot (40) from one
angle in a range between dorsiflexion and plantarflexion to another
angle in the range resulting in a shoe defined by an angle of
declination different from the pre-determined angle.
18. The shoe of claim 17, wherein the sole portion (24) is a
component of a shell (12) which includes sidewall portions (22)
extending upwardly from the sole portion to a circumferential edge
(13) which surrounds the wearer's foot.
19. The shoe of claim 18, wherein the circumferential edge (13) is
higher in the heel region (34) than in the forefoot region (30),
thus giving the outward appearance of a plantarflex shoe.
20. The shoe of claim 19, wherein the insole (104, 104') includes
three dimensional structures (120) which interface with a mating
surface on the sole so as to lock the insole and the sole together,
thus minimizing relative motion therebetween.
21. The assembly of claim 17, wherein the shoe is of a
substantially normal plantarflexion form in which the
metatarsal-phalangeal restraining device (16) is adjustable over
the metatarsal-phalangeal joints (20) of the wearer with or without
an insole (104, 104') installed, and the foot-contacting portion
(26) of the sole portion (24) of the shoe is of a form which
suitably interfaces with the foot (40) so that, when the insole is
not installed, the shoe functions as a conventional plantarflexion
shoe.
22. The assembly of claim 17, wherein the at least one insole (104)
has a weight (106) selected to provide a particular level of energy
consumption during use.
23. The assembly of claim 17, wherein the assembly is adapted to
receive one of at least two insoles (104, 104') which alternatively
insert into the shoe, providing the wearer with the ability to
select the angle (.alpha.) of declination, and thus the degree of
dorsiflexion.
24. The assembly of claim 23, wherein the insoles (104, 104') are
of a thickness selected in the range of between 2.5 mm and 15 mm,
representing approximately 0 to 6 degree changes in
dorsiflexion.
25. The assembly of claim 17, wherein the assembly is adapted to
receive at least two insoles (104''), stacked one on the other, a
first-installed insole having a lower surface which conforms to the
form of the shell, and an upper surface formed to adapt to a wear's
foot, and the second-installed insole formed to conform to the top
surface of the first-installed insole, itself having a top surface
that conforms to a wearer's foot, thus providing the wearer with
the ability to select the angle (.beta.) of declination, and thus
the degree of dorsiflexion.
26. The assembly of claim 25, wherein the insoles (104, 104') are
of a thickness selected in the range of between 2.5 mm and 15 mm,
representing approximately 0 to 6 degree changes in
dorsiflexion.
27. The assembly of claim 17, wherein the assembly includes at
least two insoles (104) of substantially differing weights, which
alternatively insert into the shoe, providing the wearer with the
ability to select a weight (106) to provide a particular level of
energy consumption during use.
28. The shoe of claim 17, wherein the forefoot region (30) includes
at least one hard, high density insert (66, 162, 180, 182, 184,
186, 190) formed to follow the curvature of the sole portion
(24).
29. The shoe of claim 29, wherein the at least one insert (66, 162,
180, 182, 184, 186, 190) includes reinforcing ribs (90).
30. The shoe of claim 29, wherein the ribs (90) pass through a
softer endo layer (92) and thus, present an exposed surface
(91).
31. The shoe of claim 30, wherein the at least one insert (66, 162,
180, 182, 184, 186, 190) is molded of a color different from the
sole portion (24), so as to prominently expose the form of the ribs
(90) on an outside surface of the shoe.
32. The shoe of claim 28, wherein the at least one insert (66, 162,
180, 182, 184, 186, 190) includes slits (200) for defining the
bending moment of inertia of the insert.
33. The shoe of claim 28, wherein the at least one insert (66, 162)
extends from the forefoot region to the midfoot region.
34. The shoe of claim 28, wherein the at least one insert (180)
extends from the forefoot region to an area adjacent the cuniform
bones of the wearer.
35. The shoe of claim 28, wherein the at least one insert (182,
184, 186, 190)extends from the forefoot region to the heel
portion.
36. A high performance dorsiflexion shoe for enveloping a wearer's
foot, the shoe comprising a sole portion (24) having a
ground-contacting surface (26), a forefoot region (30), a midfoot
region (32) and a heel portion (34), wherein the forefoot region
includes a hard, high density insert (66, 162, 180, 182, 184, 186,
190) formed to follow the curvature of the sole portion, wherein
the heel portion is made substantially of a soft, viscous-like
material, the overall thickness of the sole portion being such that
the angle (.alpha.) on declination is at most 0 degrees, and
wherein the differences in deformation of the hard and the soft
materials are defined so as to enable the sole portion to deform
during exercise in a manner that creates the effect of a
dorsiflexion shoe.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] This invention relates to shoes, and, more particularly, to
leisure and athletic shoes that promote dorsiflexion.
[0002] In standard shoes, the metatarsal phalangeal joints remain
in a bend position at take-off and is unable to generate any energy
during jumping and only a very small amount of energy during
running due to the fact that the shoe does not straighten until
after take-off when any return of energy is too little, too late,
having no influence on performance. The used energy is therefore
lost and useless for aiding propulsion in jumping or running. Over
the past years, specialized track and field shoes have progressed
in that they have begun to have relatively stiff midsoles.
[0003] In contrast, general athletic shoe manufacturers seem to be
moving toward running shoes that are more flexible at the
metatarsal phalangeal joint by either increasing the flexibility of
materials used in their manufacture or by modifying the structure
of the midsole (e.g., incorporating flexion grooves). This,
unfortunately, has no benefit with respect to propulsive
performance and is driven by pre-conceived notions.
[0004] During athletic activities, analysis of resultant joint
moments and joint power indicate that for each joint, there are
phases when energy is absorbed and phases when energy is generated.
If the absorbed energy is dissipated and not stored for later
re-use, it is wasted (i.e., it merely generates heat). If the
stored energy can be reused, then performance can be increased.
[0005] The metatarsal phalangeal joint is one joint which,
heretofore, has been a sink for energy dissipation and very little
energy generation at or before take-off. This is because an
athlete's foot rolls onto the forefoot and does not plantarflex
until after take-off.
[0006] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/833,485 to Whatley, the
content of which is herein incorporated by reference thereto,
describes a shoe that utilizes dorsiflexion in an effort to
increase the working of the certain muscles during exercise, with
particular emphasis on enabling a larger range of motion of the
foot so as to better work the calf. Dorsiflexion is brought about
by a shoe which is inclined backwards (i.e., declined) to that of a
normal plantar shoe. Essentially, instead of the heel being
supported at a point higher than the toe, the inverse is true, with
the angle of reverse incline being approximately 10 degrees. The
shoe has proven to be extraordinarily stable. However, the incline
of 10 degrees and the particular clumsy appearance of the shoe have
limited its marketability and usefulness to all but those who are
professional athletes.
[0007] Because of the dorsiflexion, one must ensure a rolling
effort of the foot in order to avoid harm to the user's musculature
and joints. The form of the sole, in which, in a forward end of the
sole, the sole is thicker and of a cylindrical form, is such that
it approximates the natural rolling effect of the foot. FIG. 21A of
the above-mentioned patent application shows a shoe which most
nearly approaches that of the invention.
[0008] What is needed is an athletic shoe that takes advantage of
the energy generation capacity of the metatarsal phalangeal joint.
Further, what is needed is an improved dorsiflexion shoe that takes
better advantage of the mechanism of dorsiflex action in order to
gain improved power output, comfort and performance. Still further,
what is needed is a dorsiflex shoe that has a more conventional
form, in order to improve the marketability and comfort of the
shoe.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] A high performance dorsiflexion shoe has a shell, an upper,
and a constraining device above the metatarsal-phalangeal joint.
The shell has a sidewall portion connected to a sole portion. The
sole portion has a ground-contacting surface, a forefoot region, a
midfoot region and a heel portion. The forefoot region is made of a
high density material, and has a thickness, measured in a direction
perpendicular to the ground-contacting surface of the sole, greater
than the thickness of the heel portion, thereby defining a
characteristic angle of declination from the forefoot region to the
heel portion, when the wearer is in a standing position. The
constraining device substantially constrains a wearer's
metatarsal-phalangeal joints from movement when exercising. The
forefoot region has a curved form defined so as to further minimize
flexion of the metatarsal-phalangeal joint.
[0010] In another feature, the angle of declination is between 1
degree to 15 degrees, preferably 5 degrees.
[0011] In another feature, the shoe includes a reinforced, padded
toe portion.
[0012] In another feature, the heel portion is substantially
comprised of a low density, viscous-like material, adapted for
fitness and training shoes.
[0013] In another feature, the sidewall of the shell is formed so
as to give the impression that the shoe is a conventional
plantarflex shoe.
[0014] In a further advantage of the invention, the 5 degree
dorsiflex angle produces a shoe that appears more conventional
(plantar flex) and thus to be significantly less clumsy, more
natural and comfortable, and therefore, much more likely to be
purchased and used by amateur athletes as well as professional
athletes.
[0015] In another advantage, the fact that the angle of reverse
incline is lesser with the invention as compared to dorsiflex shoes
of the prior art, less material is required in the manufacture.
Less material equates to less cost in manufacture as well as a
lower minimum weight to the shoe.
[0016] In another advantage, the shoe of the invention is capable
of interfacing with interchangeable insoles of various weight,
energy absorption capacity, and rigidity, thus enabling the wearer
a greater flexibility in configuring the invention for a particular
type of sports activity. Further, the fact that the minimum weight
has been reduced, due to the reduced bulk in the sole, means that
an even greater range of weight of the shoe is possible.
[0017] In a further advantage, the shoe is configured to receive
insoles which adjust the thickness of the rear of the shoe from
extreme dorsiflex to plantarflex, thus avoiding morphological
problems which occur where an insole is designed so as to increase
the thickness of the forward portion of the sole from plantarfex to
dorsiflex.
[0018] In another advantage, the invention eliminates the need for
the metatarsal-phalangeal joint to flex because the shoe itself
reproduces the movement of this joint and the toes.
[0019] In another advantage, the invention improves the capacity of
the foot by improving its efficiency while minimizing the risk to
harm to the foot by making the shoe out of materials that absorb
stress and by reproducing the rolling motion of the foot.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0020] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional side view of the shoe of the
invention.
[0021] FIG. 2A is a section view taken along line A-A of FIG. 1,
showing the constraining strap of the invention in an uncinched
position.
[0022] FIG. 2B is a section view taken along line A-A of FIG. 1,
showing the constraining strap of the invention in a cinched
position.
[0023] FIG. 3A is a cut-away view showing the reinforced toe region
of the invention.
[0024] FIG. 3B is a perspective view of the reinforced, high
density plate disposed in the forefoot region of the sole of the
invention.
[0025] FIGS. 4A to 4B are partial cut away/cross sectional,
longitudinal views of the invention showing two configurations of
interchangeable insoles.
[0026] FIG. 5A is a side view of another embodiment of the
invention showing a hybrid sole in which the sole thickness is
substantially constant along its length.
[0027] FIG. 5B is a side view of hybrid shoe of FIG. 5A in which
the heel portion is deformed under the weight of use, in order to
create a dorsiflex configuration.
[0028] FIG. 6 is a side view of another embodiment of the
invention, having an interchangeable heel portion.
[0029] FIG. 7A is a cross-sectional side view of another embodiment
of the invention having a composite sole assembly.
[0030] FIG. 7B is a bottom view of the embodiment of FIG. 7A.
[0031] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional side view of another embodiment
of the invention.
[0032] FIG. 9A is a table showing different embodiments of the
power plate of the invention.
[0033] FIG. 9B is a top view of a power plate of the invention.
[0034] FIG. 10A is a top view of an insole of the invention.
[0035] FIG. 10B is a cross-sectional side view, taken along line
B-B of FIG. 10A.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0036] In the preferred embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, a high
performance dorsiflexion shoe 10 has a shell 12, an upper 14, and a
constraining device 16 above the metatarsal-phalangeal joint 20.
The shell 12 has a sidewall portion 22 with an upper edge 13. The
sidewall portion 12 is connected to a sole portion 24. The sole
portion 24 has a ground-contacting surface 26, a forefoot region
30, a midfoot region 32 and a heel portion 34. The forefoot region
30 is made of a high density material, and has a thickness T,
measured in a direction perpendicular to the ground-contacting
surface 26 of the sole portion 24, greater than the thickness t of
the heel portion 34, thereby defining a characteristic angle
.alpha. of declination from the forefoot region 30 to the heel
portion 34. The constraining device 16 substantially constrains a
wearer's metatarsal-phalangeal joints 20 from movement when
exercising. The forefoot region 30 has a curved region 28 defined
so as to further minimize flexion of the metatarsal-phalangeal
joint 20.
[0037] The angle .alpha. of declination may vary significantly,
from between 1 degree and 15 degrees. The preferred angle is 5
degrees.
[0038] Referring now to FIGS. 2A and 2B, the constraining device
16, just below the upper 14 of the shoe 10, above the
metatarsal-phalange joint 20 of the wearer, restrains the top 36 of
the foot 40 against the sole portion 24 in order to prevent this
unfruitful or wasted motion (and thus prevent energy waste). A
cinchable strap 42 having one end 44 connected adjacent the
metatarsal-phalangeals 16 and the other end 46 threaded through a
loop 50 attached to the opposite side 52 of the metatarsal
phalangeals, transverse to the connection point 54, has an extreme
end 56 which includes a "VELCRO".TM. backing 60 that mates with a
corresponding backing 61 on the upper, such interlocking
"VELCRO".TM. arrangement enabling locking of the strap in place
after cinching. Note that the strap may be fabricated as part of
the tongue, be attached to the outsole, and vary in width. Further,
any known attachment arrangement may be used. Still further, a
rigid comfort insert (not shown) may be attached between the strap
16 and the foot 40, the insert substantially conforming to the
shape of the top of the foot above the metatarsal-phalangeal 20,
thus increasing the comfort of the strap as it is cinched firmly
against the metatarsal-phalangeal joint.
[0039] Referring now to FIG. 3A, as one tries to maximize the
lever, high stresses are applied in the toe region 62 of the shoe
10, especially as the shoe just leaves contact with the ground and
thus, the foot 40 (particularly the toe) must be protected.
Therefore, in a feature of the invention, the toe region 62 is
padded with a compressible material 64 for comfort and support and
a rigid, curved power plate 66, insert molded below the toe is made
of a very high density composite material 70. Note that the fact
that now, the forward stress normally applied to the region of the
shoe just above the toe 62 is no longer needed to restrain the foot
or absorb forces--forward forces are now absorbed by the strap 16.
Further, the high power plate 66 below the toe 62 in the region
designated by reference numeral 66 provides support so that the toe
no longer needs to support the end of the foot--this is
accomplished by the strap 16 working in combination with the power
plate 66 which now performs the equivalent function of the toe,
thus reducing fatigue of the foot. On the other hand, the heel
portion 34 is substantially comprised of a low
density,-viscous-like material, particularly adapted to fitness and
training shoes (note that for competition, this viscous-like
material is generally not appropriate--the actual sole design will
be made of materials which suit the intended surface and
sport).
[0040] Referring now to FIG. 3B, the power plate 66 is a rigid
ground effect guide which controls the running motion and effects
transmission of forces to the ground and into the body of the user.
The power plate 66 is rigidly formed in a curved shape, having an
outward facing surface 80, and an inward facing surface 82,
connected by a thin sidewall 84. The board 66 is optimized to
reproduce, as accurately as possible, the natural rolling effect of
the foot. For aesthetic reasons, to provide better sole life, and
to ensure firm fixing of the spring broad 66 in the softer sole
portion 24 or shell 12 in the insert molding process, ribs 90 are
provided in the outward facing surface 80 and extend completely
through an endo layer 92 so as to be expose a surface 91 to the
outside of the shoe 10. Thus, the power plate 66 can be fabricated
in different colors and the integral ribs 90 will thus be visible
and add a pleasing multi-tone aspect to the shoe. The power plate
66 is preferably made of a material, having a shore hardness of
between 20 and 90, whereas the endo layer 92 as well as the rest of
the shell 12 is made of standard, soft material.
[0041] The measured stiffness of the shoe 10 in the region of the
power plate 66 is selected so as to be in the range of 0.1N.M.Deg-1
and 0.5N.M.Deg-1. The shape, length, positioning and density of the
power plate 66 vary depending on the intended sport or competitive
application. In order to minimize impact on the metabolic cost of
propulsion, the weight of the power plate 66 is in the range from
30 to 250 grams. Essentially, the power plate 66 is positioned so
as to minimize flexing of the metatarsal phalangeal joint 20, in an
effort to reduce energy loss at this joint, particularly during
running and jumping.
[0042] The invention substantially reduces energy loss due to
metatarsal-phalangeal flexing during running (including slow
jogging from speeds of 2 meters/sec through fast sprinting at
speeds of 10 meters/sec) and jumping (including any propulsive
activity from submaximal hopping to maximal jumping in vertical,
horizontal and lateral directions). The inventors have shown that,
using the invention as compared to a conventional plantarflex shoe,
jumping performance can be increased from 5% to 10%, and in
running, by about 5%. Testing has shown that, in jumping, the power
plate 66 absorbed an average of 24 J during one-legged jumping,
assuming a body mass of 70 Kg, which corresponds to a difference in
jump height of approximately 3.5 cm.
[0043] Referring now to FIG. 4A, in another embodiment, an
adaptable dorsiflexion shoe assembly 100 includes a shoe 102
adapted to receive an interchangeable insole 104 which inserts into
the shoe. The assembly 100 results in a dorsiflexion shoe defined
by a particular angle .beta. of declination. The insole 104 has
weights 106 selected to provide a particular level of energy
consumption during use. The weights 106 may be adjusted through the
use of various configurations in which the weights are insert or
injection molded into place in the insole 104 using, for example, a
composite molding process at fabrication. In this manner, the shoe
102 of the invention is capable of interfacing with interchangeable
insoles 104 of various weight, energy absorption capacity,
rigidity, and form thus enabling the wearer a greater flexibility
in configuring the invention for a particular type of sports
activity corresponding to a particular angle of declination.
Further, as the inventors have learned that, surprisingly, only a
small angle of declination (5 degrees being ideal) contributes
substantially to performance, it is not necessary to use a design
corresponding to the bulbous sole design of the prior art. The
result of this is that the weight of the shoe 10, 102 has been
reduced. Consequently, the bulk in the sole portion 24 is greatly
reduced and thus, an even greater range of weight of the shoe is
possible.
[0044] Referring now to FIG. 4B, an insole 120 is shown in which
corresponding, interlocking surfaces 122 and 124 help ensure that
the insole does not move during operation.
[0045] Referring now to FIG. 5A, in another embodiment 130, the
foot 40 is supported level, so that the bottom of the wearer's toes
are the same height as the bottom of his heel. However, the
forefoot region 132 of the composite sole 134 is made from a more
rigid material and the heel portion 136 of the sole is made from a
soft, viscous, low density, or less rigid material. Referring now
to FIG. 5B, the softness of the heel allows it to deform, under the
weight of the user, much more than that of the harder forefoot
region 22'. This creates an angle .PHI. of declination upon the
deformation of the softer heel region 136, thus providing
dorsiflexion in a hybrid shoe 130 that has an appearance of an
ordinary shoe.
[0046] The selection of a suitable relative thickness and rigidity
for the materials used in the construction of this hybrid sole 130
is important in order to balance the interests of providing
dorsiflexion working and protection to the heel.
[0047] Referring now to FIG. 6, in another embodiment, a dorsiflex
shoe 140 is provided having an interchangeable heel 142 adaptable
to the particular sport or activity to be performed. Heels 142 of
differing hardnesses connect and disconnect to the interfacing
portion of the shoe 140 via a connection device such as a dove tail
groove interface 144, a snap-in-place mechanism, or by a pin lock
(not shown).
[0048] Referring now to FIGS. 7A and 7B, in another embodiment, a
dorsiflex shoe 150 is provided having a composite sole arrangement.
A sole assembly 152 is made up of several layers and distinct
regions including a sport-surface selected central region 154, a
viscous-like heel portion 156, a reinforced forefoot region 160, a
high density forward region 162, a medium density upper region 164,
a low density region 166 in the rearward part of the shoe, below
the wearer's heel, and a soft insole 170 for comfort and
cushioning. The upper region 164 traverses the shoe 150 from the
heel to the toe. A padded toe region 172 protects the wear's toes.
Note that in FIG. 7B, region 156 is surrounded by the higher
density region 174 or optionally, by high density regions 176, for
improved lateral stability. Clearly, the region 156 may be formed
of various shapes and relative sizes, depending on the sport or
surface against which it's intended to bear.
[0049] In the configuration shown in FIG. 4A, it is apparent that
the insole 104 increases the thickness of the forefoot region 30
changing the shoe 102 from one which is plantarflex to a shoe
assembly 100 which is dorsiflex. The inventors have learned that
this presents challenges in forming the portion of the upper 14 so
as to accommodate the changing amount of space inside the shoe
assembly 100 available to accommodate the toes and the forefoot.
Therefore, in another embodiment, shown in FIG. 8, insoles 104' are
used which increase the thickness of the heel portion 34 changing
the shoe 110 from one which is of maximum dorsiflexion of about 15
degrees (using the lowest heel point situated under the calcaneum
bone where the foot takes a rounded shape) to a shoe assembly 112
which is plantarflex or 0 degree declination (i.e., barefoot
posture). The thickness of the insoles 104' varies by about 2.5-3
mm per degree of dorsiflexion.
[0050] The embodiment of FIG. 8 ensures that the form of the toe
region 62 remains unchanged as insoles 104' are changed. As the
degree of dorsiflexion is increased, the height of the heel portion
is proportionally decreased without alteration of the portion of
the insole extending from the back of the cuneiform bones and the
cuboid to the toes. For example, in an embodiment configured to
provide 4 degrees of dorsiflexion, the insole of the shell 12_will
have a plus/minus variation of 10 mm between the thickness in the
metatarsal areas and the lowest point of the heel.
[0051] In another embodiment, the insoles 104' are designed so as
to be stackable, lifting the heel in 2.5 mm to 15 mm increments
which represent from 1 to 6 degree changes in dorsiflexion. The
dashed line 108 indicates a possible location of the interface
between two layering insoles 104''. The insoles 104'' are formed so
that The first-installed insole 104'' has a lower surface which
conforms to the form of the shell 12, and an upper surface formed
to adapt to a wear's foot 40, and the second-installed insole 104''
formed to conform to the top surface of the first-installed insole,
itself having a top surface that conforms to a wearer's foot. This
provides the wearer with the ability to select the angle of
declination, and thus the degree of dorsiflexion. It should be
noted that the insoles 104' must also be constructed of a material
having a comparable compression factor with the shell 12, in order
to ensure the selected dorsiflexion performance in operation.
[0052] Still further, in order to create a shoe that does not
appear, from the exterior to be a dorsiflex shoe, the side wall
portion 22 rises up and surrounds the heel area of the wearer and
continues in a direction toward the toe region 62 at an angle
.crclbar. which is less than dorsiflex than the maximum dorsiflex
attainable in the shoe. In this embodiment, the angle .crclbar. is
in fact plantarflex, so that the dorsiflex configuration is only
apparent to the wearer.
[0053] The insoles 104' are constructed anatomically and is
constructed of materials typically used for orthopedic applications
in shoes, such materials selected so that the tolerance of
deviation due to material expansion is low, shape memory
characteristics high, which high cycling endurance in
compression.
[0054] Referring now to FIG. 9A, a table is shown of varying
embodiments of the power plate 66, 162, 180, 182, 184, 186, and 190
of the invention, which, as indicated, extend from the toe to the
metatarsal phalangeal ("MF"), to the cuniform bones, or to the
heel, as the case may be. Note that in power plates 186 and 190, a
thinned portion 186' and 190', respectively, connect a forefoot
region to a heel region. With power plate 184, the special
"S-shaped" form provides improved end-to-end resilience of the shoe
10 and further acts to improve the energy absorbing capacity of the
sole by elastic flexion.
[0055] Referring now to FIG. 9B, in an alternate embodiment,
longitudinal slits 200 may be molded or cut in the power plate 66
in order to better adapt the sole's characteristics to a particular
sport of interest. In particular, the bending moment of inertia of
the power plate 66 may be varied by selectively, depending on the
sport, adding slits to the power plate 66. In particular cases,
more than one power plate may be used within the same construction,
insert molded parallel to eachother, partially overlapping or in
separate lengthwise segments.
[0056] Referring now to FIGS. 10A-10B, a typical insole 104, 104',
for use with the shoe 10 has an arch support 210. Only the
cross-hatched portion 212 need have a variable thickness.
[0057] In operation, a traditional shoe provides for flexing of the
metatarsal phalangeal 20, in order, anatomically, to maintain a
reasonable footprint on the ground, to both improve traction and to
reduce the stress on the wearer's toes 94. In fact, the metatarsal
phalange 20 is the only part of the foot 40 (ankle excluded) that
is actually bending during walking. The inventors have found that
by increasing the stiffness of the sole portion 24 in the forefoot
region 30, and further by restraining the top of the foot 40 above
the metatarsal phalangeal region 20 (restraining the foot against
bending of the metatarsals), the lever of the foot is increased.
When the length of the lever can be increased, the moment is
increased and thus the power output of the foot is increased, which
results in a lengthening of the stride while running. The result is
improved "toe off" and an extended range of motion, less energy
depredation in the toe area and a more efficient stride.
[0058] Increased efficiency of the stride leads to a corresponding
reduction in strenuous training protocol and improved technique,
which, consequently results in reduced injury risk often associated
with overtraining.
[0059] In an advantage of the invention, the 5 degree dorsiflex
angle 30 produces a shoe 10, 10' that appears to be significantly
less clumsy, more natural and comfortable, and therefore, much more
likely to be purchased and used by amateur athletes as well as
professional athletes. The invention provides a reverse, dorsiflex
to the orientation of the foot, to a level which experimentation
has shown produces the maximum power output, namely 5 degrees. In
fact, the inventors have learned that there is no remarkable
benefit to be gained by providing a shoe which a greater reverse
dorsiflex incline of 5 degrees.
[0060] In another advantage, the fact that the angle of reverse
incline is lesser with the invention as compared to dorsiflex shoes
of the prior art, means that less material is required in
manufacture less material equates to less cost in manufacture as
well as a lower minimum weight to the shoe.
[0061] In another feature, the sidewall of the shell 12 is formed
so as to give the impression that the shoe is a conventional
plantarflex shoe.
[0062] In another advantage, the invention eliminates the need for
the metatarsal-phalange joint to flex because the shoe itself
reproduces the movement of this joint and the toes.
[0063] In an advantage, the invention substantially reduces energy
loss due to metatarsal-phalangeal flexing during running and
jumping.
[0064] In another advantage, the invention improves the capacity of
the foot by improving its efficiency while mininimizing the risk to
harm to the foot by selecting the materials of the shoe to absorb
stress and by reproducing the rolling motion of the foot.
[0065] In a further advantage, the shoe is configured to receive
insoles which adjust the thickness of the rear of the shoe from
extreme dorsiflex to plantarflex, thus avoiding morphological
problems which occur where an insole is designed so as to increase
the thickness of the forward portion of the sole from plantarflex
to dorsiflex.
[0066] In another advantage, insoles may be stackably inserted into
the shoe, thereby reducing the total bulk and weight of the
assembly including all insoles which interface therewith.
[0067] In an advantage, the shoe improves the capacity of the foot
by improving its efficiency. Thus, the risk of harm to the foot is
minimized by selecting the materials of the shoe to absorb stress
and by reproducing the rolling motion of the foot.
[0068] In another advantage, the shoe configuration allows for
improved performance of the plantar flexor muscles.
[0069] In another advantage, the invention increases the power
output of a runner and of forces applied to the ground. The athlete
is able to run faster because stride length is increased and
contact time of the foot on the ground is decreased.
[0070] Multiple variations and modifications are possible in the
embodiments of the invention described here. Although certain
illustrative embodiments of the invention have been shown and
described here, a wide range of modifications, changes, and
substitutions is contemplated in the foregoing disclosure. In some
instances, some features of the present invention may be employed
without a corresponding use of the other features. Accordingly, it
is appropriate that the foregoing description be construed broadly
and understood as being given by way of illustration and example
only, the spirit and scope of the invention being limited only by
the appended claims.
* * * * *