U.S. patent application number 11/697046 was filed with the patent office on 2007-08-09 for composite footwear insole.
Invention is credited to Alvaro Z. Gallegos.
Application Number | 20070180632 11/697046 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 37498781 |
Filed Date | 2007-08-09 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070180632 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Gallegos; Alvaro Z. |
August 9, 2007 |
COMPOSITE FOOTWEAR INSOLE
Abstract
A composite footwear insole, and a method for making and
assembling the composite footwear insole, includes a plurality of
sections either removably or securably attachable to a bottom
layer. The sections are made of different materials to provide
different types of support, such as rigid or shock absorbing. Each
section may also have different surface characteristics. The
composite footwear insole may be used to at least partially abate
and/or prevent foot and related ailments commonly suffered by
diabetics and others with pathologic or painful foot conditions. A
kit for making an insole is provided wherein a variety of insole
sections are provided that have different cushioning or support
features and/or different surface characteristics, allowing a user
to choose the preferred insole sections and assemble the sections
onto the bottom layer, thereby constructing a composite footwear
insole.
Inventors: |
Gallegos; Alvaro Z.;
(Albuquerque, NM) |
Correspondence
Address: |
SHIRLEY KOPECKY, ATTORNEY AT LAW
6039 FLOYD ST., SUITE 100
HOUSTON
TX
77007
US
|
Family ID: |
37498781 |
Appl. No.: |
11/697046 |
Filed: |
April 5, 2007 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
11146841 |
Jun 7, 2005 |
7210250 |
|
|
11697046 |
Apr 5, 2007 |
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
12/146B ;
36/44 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A43B 3/24 20130101; A43B
17/02 20130101; A43B 1/0081 20130101; A43B 7/1465 20130101; A43D
999/00 20130101; A43B 7/146 20130101; A43B 3/246 20130101; A43B
7/147 20130101; A43B 1/0054 20130101; A43B 13/16 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
012/146.00B ;
036/044 |
International
Class: |
A43B 13/38 20060101
A43B013/38; A43D 8/00 20060101 A43D008/00 |
Claims
1. A method of making an insole for footwear, comprising: providing
a bottom layer having a top side; providing a plurality of insole
sections having an underside, wherein one of the plurality of
insole sections includes a medial edge; placing attachment members
on the top side of the bottom layer and to the underside of the
plurality of insole sections for attaching the bottom layer and one
or more of the plurality of insole sections; selecting one or more
of the plurality of insole sections for assembly into an insole;
arranging the one or more of the plurality of insole sections in
relationship to the bottom layer for attachment to the bottom
layer; and attaching the one or more of the plurality of insole
sections to the top side of the bottom layer to form the
insole.
2. A method of making an insole for footwear as recited in claim 1,
wherein the step of attaching the one or more of the plurality of
insole sections to the top side of the bottom layer includes the
substep of removably attaching the one or more of the plurality of
insole sections to the top side of the bottom layer.
3. A method of making an insole for footwear as recited in claim 1,
wherein the step of attaching the one or more of the plurality of
insole sections to the top side of the bottom layer includes the
substep of affixing the one or more of the plurality of insole
sections to the top side of the bottom layer.
4. A method of making an insole for footwear as recited in claim 1,
wherein the step of selecting one or more of the plurality of
insole sections includes the substep of selecting the sections from
the group consisting of a longitudinal arch section, a heel
section, a toe section, a metatarsal section, and/or a base
section.
5. A method of making an insole for footwear as recited in claim 1,
wherein the step of providing a plurality of insole sections having
an underside formed with at least one medial edge includes the
substep of forming the at least one medial edge for fitting one or
more of the plurality of insole sections to one another.
6. A method of making an insole for footwear as recited in claim 1,
further comprising the step of placing attachment members on the
top side of the bottom layer and to the underside of the plurality
of insole sections includes the substeps of: selecting attachment
members that comprise hook components and loop components; mounting
the hook components on the top side of the bottom layer; mounting
the loop components on the underside of the plurality of insole
sections intended for removable attachment; or mounting the hook
components on the underside of the bottom layer; and mounting the
loop components on the top surface of insole sections intended for
removable attachment.
7. A method of making an insole for footwear as recited in claim 1,
wherein the step of providing a plurality of insole sections
includes the substep of making the plurality of insole sections
from different materials.
8. A method for making a composite footwear insole, comprising the
steps of: selecting one or more materials adapted to make a bottom
insole layer having a top side; choosing one or more materials
adapted to make a plurality of insole sections having an underside,
further including the substep of choosing materials having
different cushioning, hardness, thickness and/or surface
characteristics; shaping the plurality of insole sections for
engagement with the top side of the bottom insole layer; and
including attachment members mountable on at least one side of the
bottom layer and on the underside of the plurality of insole
sections adapted to attach the plurality of insole sections with
the bottom layer.
9. A method for making a composite footwear insole as recited in
claim 8, wherein the step of shaping the plurality of insole
sections for engagement with the top side of the bottom insole
layer includes the substep of affixing the one or more of the
plurality of insole sections to the top side of the bottom
layer.
10. A method for making a composite footwear insole as recited in
claim 8, wherein the step of shaping the plurality of insole
sections for engagement with toe top side of the bottom insole
layer includes the substep of providing one or more layers of
material to provide a substantially continuous top surface of
assembly of the plurality of insole sections on the bottom
layer.
11. A method for making a composite footwear insole as recited in
claim 8, wherein the step of shaping the plurality of insole
sections for removable engagement with the top side of the bottom
insole layer includes the substep of shaping the materials to form
a longitudinal arch section, a heel section, a toe section, a
metatarsal section, a base section, or any combination thereof.
12. A method for making a composite footwear insole as recited in
claim 8, wherein the step of shaping the plurality of insole
sections for securable engagement with the top side of the bottom
insole layer includes the substep of shaping the materials to form
a longitudinal arch section, a heel, a top section, a metatarsal
section, a base section, or any combination thereof.
13. A method for making a composite footwear insole as recited in
claim 8, whereing the step of shaping the plurality of insole
sections for securable engagemet with the top side of the bottom
insole layer includes the substep of shaping the materials to form
a longitudinal arch section, a heel section, a top section, a
metatarsal section, a base section, or any combination thereof.
14. A method for making a composite footwear insole as recited in
claim 8, wherein the step of including attachment members includes
the substep of selecting hook components and loop components for
attachment.
15. A method for making a composite footwear insole as recited in
claim 8, wherein the step of choosing one or more materials adapted
to make a plurality of insole sections includes the substep of
choosing the one or more materials from the group consisting of
leather, neoprene. EVA foam, or any combination thereof.
16. A method for making a composite footwear insole as recited in
claim 15, wherein the step of choosing one or more materials
adapted to make plurality of insole sections includes the substep
of choosing for a toe section a material for a top layer selected
from the group consisting of moleski, fur, polyester, satin, silk,
or any combination thereof.
17. A method for making a composite footwear insole as recited in
claim 15, wherein the step of choosing one or more materials
adapted to make a plurality of insole sections includes the substep
of choosing for a heel section a material for a top layer selected
from the group consisting of rubber, neoprene, EVA foam, or any
combination thereof.
18. A method for forming components of a kit for assembling a
composite footwear insole, comprising the step of: selecting
material to form a bottom layer having a top side; selecting
material to form a plurality of insole sections having an
underside. further comprising the substeps of selecting the
material to provide different cushioning, hardness, thickness
and/or surface characteristics for either secure or removable
attachment to the bottom insole layer; providing means for
attaching the top side of the bottom layer to the underside of the
plurality of insole sections; and shaping the plurality of insole
section for attachment to the bottom insole layer.
19. A method for forming components of a kit for assembling a
composite footwear insole as recited in claim 18, wherein the step
of shaping the plurality of insole section for attachment to the
bottom insole layer includes the substeps of: providing at least
one longitudinal arch section; providing at least one heel section;
providing at least one toe section; providing at least one
metatarsal section; and/or providing at least one base section.
20. A method for forming components of a kit for assembling a
composite footwear insole as recited in claim 19, wherein the step
of providing means for attaching the top side of the bottom layer
to the underside of the plurality of insole sections includes the
substep of: removably attaching the top side of the bottom layer to
the underside of the plurality of insole sections; or affixedly
attaching the top side of the bottom layer to the underside of the
plurality of insole sections; or removably and affixedly attaching
selected insole sections of the plurality of insole sections to the
top side of the bottom layer.
Description
[0001] This application is a divisional application from co-pending
application Ser. No. 11/146,841 entitled MULTIPIECE FOOTWEAR INSOLE
filed on Jun. 7, 2005 for which the U.S. Patent Office has issued a
notice of allowability to the same sole inventor named in this
application. The specification of the pending application is
incorporated by reference into this document.
FIELD OF TECHNOLOGY
[0002] The composite footwear insole disclosed, shown, and claimed
in this document pertains generally to footwear. More particularly,
the new and useful composite footwear insole provides an insole
that relieves pain suffered by footwear users whose footwear does
not include the composite footwear insole disclosed, shown, and
claimed in this document.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Diabetes mellitus is a chronic disease that affects the
lives of millions of people in the United States and around the
World. Many diabetics develop a serious foot conditions at some
time during their lives, which in some cases require toe
amputations or even amputations of the entire foot. High blood
sugar levels also affect the body's immune system and delays wound
healing.
[0004] Neuropathy is an impairment that affects about half of those
with diabetes. It causes loss of feeling in feet, which increases
the risk of undetected injury. Diabetics suffering from neuropathy
can unknowingly develop minor cuts or scrapes, blisters, or
pressure sores due to the feeling insensitivity. If such minor
injuries are left untreated or fail to heal, complications may lead
to ulceration, infection, and gangrene. In fact, diabetic foot
complications are the most common cause of non-traumatic lower
extremity amputations in the United States. The risk of lower
extremity amputation has been estimated to be about 15 to 46 times
higher in diabetics than in non-diabetics. Importantly, the
majority of diabetic foot complications begin with the formation of
skin ulcers on the bottom of the foot.
[0005] Specially designed footwear for diabetics as well as other
orthopedic devices can reduce the risk of many foot complications,
such as the formation of calluses, foot ulcers, poor circulation,
decreased resistance to infection, foot deformities, and
neuropathy, all of which are especially problematic for
diabetics.
[0006] Custom orthopedic foot wear for diabetics often has a
relatively rigid, but resilient base comprising a heel portion and
an arch portion contoured to fit the plantar, or bottom surface, of
a foot. Unfortunately, most customized prescription orthopedic
footwear and/or footwear devices for diabetics require the
preparation of molds for the feet that in turn require subsequent
manufacturing of footwear and/or devices causing significant delay
between the measuring of feet for an orthopedic shoe or device, and
the arrival of the new customized device such as insoles as well as
footwear. The custom insoles are generally created from hard
plastics by making a mold based on detailed foot measurements. The
mold is modified to provide prescribed corrections by a podiatrist.
Custom orthopedic footwear may also be unattractive. The resulting
footwear will not be as versatile as insoles insertable within
ordinary shoes and other footwear.
[0007] Conventional footwear inserts or soles consist of materials
such as rigid plastic and/or elastomeric foam with an impact
cushioning foam layer or space filler. They provide insufficient
foot protection and/or do not address the different needs of the
various areas of the foot, which can be unique to wearers. Such
insoles often do not provide enough protection or support for
proper biomechanical functions of a foot, particularly in the rear
foot area, and in the arch areas of a foot. Conventional insoles
typically do not hold a wearer's heel in place or provide arch
support, or allow movement of the foot such as in the toe area that
allows toes to slide and move. Thus, conventional inserts and soles
are often ineffective in preventing or alleviating foot conditions
experienced by diabetics and other persons with foot problems.
[0008] Special footwear and/or footwear components and devices are
considered significant in preventing the problems of diabetics and
others. It is also believed that many foot and toe complications of
non-diabetics could be prevented through the use of the composite
footwear insole disclosed, illustrated, and claimed in this
document. The composite footwear insole has sections that are for a
variety of foot shapes and that can be customized for a variety of
wearers and wear requirements. One or more of the sections may have
different cushioning and/or surface characteristics.
SUMMARY
[0009] It will become apparent to one skilled in the art that the
claimed subject matter as a whole, including the structure of the
apparatus, and the cooperation of the elements of the apparatus,
combine to result in a number of unexpected advantages and
utilities. The structure and co-operation of structure of the
composite footwear insole will become apparent to those skilled in
the art when read in conjunction with the following description,
drawing figures, and appended claims.
[0010] The foregoing has outlined broadly the more important
features of the invention to better understand the detailed
description that follows, and to better understand the
contributions to the art. The composite footwear insole is not
limited in application to the details of construction, and to the
arrangements of the components, provided in the following
description or drawing figures, but is capable of other
embodiments, and of being practiced and carried out in various
ways. The phraseology and terminology employed in this disclosure
are for purpose of description, and therefore should not be
regarded as limiting.
[0011] As those skilled in the art will appreciate, the conception
on which this disclosure is based readily may be used as a basis
for designing other structures, methods, and system. The claims,
therefore, include equivalent constructions. Further, the abstract
associated with this disclosure is intended neither to define the
composite footwear insole, which is measured by the claims, nor
intended to limit the scope of the claims.
[0012] The novel features of the composite footwear insole are best
understood from the accompanying drawing, considered in connection
with the accompanying description of the drawing, in which similar
reference characters refer to similar parts, and in which:
DRAWINGS
[0013] FIG. 1 is a top side view of an insole of this invention for
the left foot in an assembled state;
[0014] FIG. 1A is a view of an insole of FIG. 1 showing the
undersides of the sections;
[0015] FIG. 2 is a bottom view of the bottom layer of the insole of
FIG. 1;
[0016] FIG. 2A shows the top side of the bottom layer of the FIG.
2;
[0017] FIG. 3 is a right side view of an insole for the left foot,
with the sections of the insole unassembled, but in their
respective positions;
[0018] FIG. 3A is a left side view of the insole of FIG. 3, with
the sections of the insole in their respective positions,
unassembled;
[0019] FIG. 4 is a right side view of the insole of FIGS. 3-3A in
an assembled state;
[0020] FIG. 4A is a left side view of the of the insole of FIG. 4
in use in footwear;
[0021] FIG. 4B is a right side view of the insole of FIG. 4 in use
in footwear;
[0022] FIG. 5 is a top view of insole sections for a right foot in
a disassembled state like that of FIGS. 3, 3A, and 4;
[0023] FIG. 5A is an underside view of the sections of FIG. 5 in a
disassembled state;
[0024] FIG. 6 is a bottom view of the bottom layer of FIG. 6A with
the insole sections of FIGS. 5 and 5A in an assembled state like
FIGS. 1, 4;
[0025] FIG. 6A is the top view of the bottom layer of FIG. 6 before
the sections of FIGS. 5-5A are attached thereto;
[0026] FIGS. 7A-7G show a kit for making a right sided and left
sided insole that is comprised of toe sections, metatarsal
sections, base sections, arch sections, heel sections, and bottom
insole layers;
[0027] FIGS. 7A and 7B show an assortment of insole sections for a
left foot insole;
[0028] FIG. 7C shows the top view of an embodiment of a bottom
insole layer for a left foot insole;
[0029] FIG. 7D shows the top view of an embodiment of a bottom
insole layer for a right foot insole;
[0030] FIGS. 7E and 7F show an assortment of insole sections for a
right foot insole; and
[0031] FIG. 7G shows an embodiment of the underside of the insole
sections for a left foot.
[0032] Claim elements and steps in this document have been numbered
solely as an aid in understanding the description. The numbering is
not intended to, and should not be considered as intending to,
indicate the ordering of elements and steps in the claims. In
addition, the composite footwear insole shown in drawing FIGS. 1
through .circle-solid. shows at least one embodiment that is not
intended to be exclusive, but merely illustrative of the disclosed
embodiments.
[0033] Means-plus-function clauses in the claims are intended to
cover the structures described as performing the recited function
that include not only structural equivalents, but also equivalent
structures. Thus, although a nail and screw may not be structural
equivalents, a nail and a screw may be equivalent structures.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0034] Composite footwear insole 2 disclosed, illustrated, and
claimed in this document includes multiple pieces or sections that
can be made from a variety of materials and/or sections that can
have different surface characteristics. The composite footwear
insole is versatile, and can be constructed in a fraction of the
time in comparison to conventional custom or special-fit insoles.
Further, depending on needs and changes in a wearer's foot, certain
sections can be switched with other counterpart sections that can
be made from a spectrum of different materials having different
hardnesses and/or different surfaces. For example, the insole
sections can be comprised of cushioning materials or rigid
materials to lend support, and those in between. The surface type
can also vary based upon type and location of the sections. For
example, certain enable the toes to move and slide, to surface
types that are gripping to prevent sliding of portions of the foot,
such as the heel. The ability to slide and move the toes of the
foot may also enhance circulation in the foot.
[0035] FIG. 1 shows a top side view 5 of a composite footwear
insole 2 of this invention for the left foot with the insole
sections in their respective positions and in an assembled state,
with at least one medial edge shaped to fit together with a medial
edge of an adjacent section. FIG. 1A shows the undersides 19, 26,
32, 38, respectively, of the toe sections 18, metatarsal section
24, base section 30, arch section 36, and heel section 42 of FIG.
1. FIG. 2 shows the bottom view 8 of the bottom layer 4 of the
insole of FIG. 1. FIG. 2A shows the top side 6 of the bottom layer
4 of FIG. 2, and the attachment members 12 on the top side 6 of the
bottom layer 4. As shown in FIGS. 1-2A, as well as FIGS. 3, 3A, 4,
4A, and 4B which show a side view, the composite footwear insole
has a bottom layer 4 having a top side 6 and a bottom side 8, and
includes a plurality of sections 10.
[0036] Beginning at the anterior-most end 1 of the composite
footwear insole 2 of FIG. 1 is a toe section 18, having a top
surface 20. Moving toward the posterior end of the composite
footwear insole 2, the toe section 18 has a medial edge 21 that in
an embodiment is irregular and is waved. The pattern or design of
the respective edge of the adjacent piece, here the medial edge 21
of the toe section 18, is of a shape complimentary to the medial
edge 27a of the metatarsal section 24, which has a top side 25. In
the embodiment of FIG. 1, the longitudinal arch section 36 is
shaped so as to extend into the metatarsal section 24 of the
composite footwear insole 2. Moving further posteriorly is another
medial edge 27b of the metatarsal section 24 that interfaces with
the medial edge 33a of the base section 30, which has a top side
31. The longitudinal arch section 36 is adjacent to the base
section 30 and has a curved 54 medial edge 39 adjacent to medial
edge 33a of the base section 30. The top side of the arch section
37 is shown. The medial edge 33b of the base section 30 is adjacent
to the medial edge 40 of the heel section 42. Here, the top side 43
of the heel section 42 has a plurality of protrusions 44 that are
raised areas that serve to grip the heel of a wearer's foot. FIG. 1
shows a left insole for a left foot. The right insole for the right
foot would be a mirror image of the left foot insole of FIG. 1.
[0037] The sections of the composite footwear insole 2 disclosed,
illustrated, and claimed in this document are usually of different
sizes and of different shapes and can vary in thicknesses, depths,
and/or elevations. Each composite footwear insole section can be
comprised of one or more of material types and can be a variety of
thicknesses from a few millimeters to a few centimeters. The
sections of composite footwear insole 2 disclosed, illustrated, and
claimed in this document can be securably attached to a bottom
layer, removably attachable to a bottom layer, or alternatively,
integral with the bottom layer. The composite footwear insole can
be designed so that any section can be integral with the bottom
layer. FIGS. 7A-7G also show a kit for making the composite
footwear insole.
[0038] The composite footwear insole sections can be comprised of
one or more layers of material. In one embodiment, one or more of
the composite footwear insole sections have semi-rigid or rigid
support members underneath or molded within the insole section.
Also, if desired, a section can be constructed from one type of
material, and may have a covering layer on the top surface
comprised of another material. A variety of materials can be used
as a top covering layer for the composite footwear insole sections.
If a top layer is used, it can have a variety of thicknesses of
material from a few millimeters to less than about 1 to 1.5
centimeters. The top layer can have a variety of surface
characteristics and be made of synthetic and/or natural materials
such as silk, fur, felt, satin, leather, polyester, cloth or
sheeting, as well as foam, rubber, plastic materials, and any other
materials known to one skilled in the art that are suitable for
insoles and insole coverings.
[0039] The assembled composite footwear insole 2 is generally
foot-shaped and/or has the approximate shape of the inside
perimeter of the bed 7 of conventional footwear or shoes. See e.g.
FIGS. 1, 2, 4, 4A, 4B, and 6. The composite footwear insole 2 is
formed of a plurality of sections 10 that are integral with the
composite footwear insole 2 or that are removably attachable or
securably attachable to at least a portion of the top side 6 of the
bottom layer 4 of the insole 2. In one embodiment, the sections are
comprised essentially of a longitudinal arch section 36, a heel
section 42, a toe section 18, a metatarsal section 24, a base
section 30, or any combination thereof. Of course one or more of
these sections can be combined or can extend into other areas of
the insole. The various insole sections fit together similar to
puzzle pieces to form an composite footwear insole 2. In one
embodiment, the sections have medial edges that fit together with
the medial edge of at least one other section in a puzzle-like
manner.
[0040] The edges between the pieces can be straight 50 as those
between the toe section 18 of FIG. 5 and the heel in FIG. 1, or
curved as in the medial edge 39 of the longitudinal arch section 36
and medial edge 33c of the base piece 30 in FIGS. 1,5. However, for
comfort, the edges of the insole in the weight bearing areas are
preferably irregular so that the wearer does not feel a seam or
separation between the sections. For example, the edges can be wave
shaped or shaped like a repeating "w", "u", or "v", or any
combination of the foregoing. As shown in FIG. 1, for example, the
toe section 18 adjacent to the metatarsal section 24 has edges that
are wave-shaped edge 58 and wave-shape medial edge 27 of the
metatarsal piece 24 adjacent to toe section 18 and is irregular in
a corresponding wave-shaped edge 58. As shown in FIG. 5, the medial
edge 33 of the base piece 30 adjacent to the heel piece 42 is
wave-shaped edge 58 and the medial edge 40 of the heel piece 42
adjacent to the base piece 30 is irregular and wave-shaped edge 58
in a corresponding shape. As defined herein, a medial edge is the
edge of the insole sections that is adjacent to at least one other
section and interfaces with another insole section. Also as shown
in FIG. 1, some edges between some pieces are straight, while the
edges between other pieces are irregular.
[0041] For sections that are removably attachable to form the
composite footwear insole 2, there are various ways to attach the
sections to the insole or a bottom layer of the insole, such as
using attachment members including adhesives, glue, magnets, a
wedge and aperture connection, studs, snaps, hook and loop
fasteners such as Velcro.RTM. and other hook and loop fasteners,
hook and eye fasteners, and other means or materials known to one
skilled in the art for removably attaching materials to each other.
The attachment members 12 are located on the top side 6 of the
bottom layer 4 and on the underside 11 of such plurality of
sections 10. In the composite footwear insole 2 embodiments of
FIGS. 1, 4, 5A, 6A, 7C, 7D, and 7G the attachment members 12
comprise hook components 14 and counterpart loop components 16 like
those found in Velcro.RTM. and similar materials. The
Velcro.RTM.-type attachment members are secured to the sections and
bottom layer by adhesives and/or stitching. The hook components 14
can be attached to the top side 6 of the bottom layer 4 and the
counterpart loop components 16 can be attached to the underside 11
of the removable plurality of sections 10 or similarly, the hook
components 14 can be attached to the underside 11 of the removable
plurality of sections 10 and the counterpart loop components 16 can
be attached to the top side 6 of the bottom layer 4. Regardless of
the position of the attachment members 12 on the underside 11 of
plurality of sections 10 and the bottom layer 4, when the hook
components 14 and counterpart loop components 16 are joined
together, they form a holding assembly 17. Also, Velcro-compatible
continuous-loop fabrics can be used for the loop counterparts such
as nylon which is available under the trade designation
"Tricot."
[0042] The hook components 14 and counterpart loop components 16
can cover the entire surface of the plurality of sections 10 and
bottom layer 4, see e.g. FIG. 7G or instead, a portion thereof, see
e.g. FIGS. 2, 7G. Alternatively, if the plurality of sections 10
are securably attached to the bottom layer 4, they can be integral
or part of the bottom layer 4 such as though molding, or attached
by adhesives, heat bonding glue, and/or stitching, or other ways
known to one skilled in the art.
[0043] The bottom layer 4 of the composite footwear insole 2 is a
support layer and/or is a cushioning layer and can be made from a
variety of materials, especially foam materials which have elastic
or rebounding properties, such as those consisting essentially of
silicon, polyester, neoprene, natural rubber foams, synthetic
rubber foams, polyurethane, polyether and polyester foams,
neoprene, vinyl nitrile, styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR),
polyethylene (PE), ethyl vinyl acetate (EVA), ethylene propylene
terpolymer (EPT), EPT/PE/butyl rubber, neoprene/EPT/SBR,
epichlorohydrin (ECH), and nitrile (NBR) or any combination
thereof, as well as other cushioning materials known or used by one
skilled in the art. Of course, the bottom layer 4 of the insole 2
may also be comprised of natural materials, such as leather,
cotton, felt, linen, and other such materials known to one skilled
in the art. The bottom layer 4 should also be durable so that it
does not tear apart when the plurality of sections 10 are removed
and replaced during use. Also, only a portion of the bottom layer 4
can be made of a support type material with the remainder being
cushioning material. The support materials comprise materials that
provide at least some support that can be shaped and not completely
rigid, such as leather and metal, but can also be rigid or
semi-rigid, such as plastic, rubber and other materials known to
one skilled in the art for such purposes. The bottom layer 4 can be
of a variety of thicknesses from a few millimeters to a centimeter
or less.
[0044] If different material characteristics are desired, one or
more of the plurality of sections 10 will be made of different
materials. The composite footwear insole 2 plurality of sections 10
can be comprised of one or more synthetic or natural materials
selected from plastic, metal, metal alloys, gels, and those
consisting essentially of silicon, polyester, neoprene, natural
rubber foams, synthetic rubber foams, polyurethane, polyether and
polyester foams, neoprene, vinyl nitrile, styrene-butadiene rubber
(SBR), polyethylene (PE), ethyl vinyl acetate (EVA), ethylene
propylene terpolymer (EPT), EPT/PE/butyl rubber, neoprene/EPT/SBR,
epichlorohydrin (ECH), and nitrile (NBR), and various types of
polymer foams, leather, cotton, felt, linen, or any combination of
one or more of the foregoing, or other materials known or used by
one skilled in the art. In one embodiment, the foam of the
plurality of sections 10 also molds to the contours of the foot
when worn to reduce the pressure points and for enhanced comfort.
If desired, the insole 2 plurality of sections 10 can contain rigid
or semi-rigid materials that are enclosed or encapsulated in other
materials that give support to the composite footwear insole 2,
plurality of sections 10.
[0045] The materials for each section are chosen based upon the
desired characteristics for each section. For example, if the
composite footwear insole 2, plurality of sections 10 should have
elastic or rebounding properties, it is typically comprised of
materials that have cushioning abilities that rebound. In contrast,
if the composite footwear insole 2, plurality of sections 10 should
support a certain area of the foot, such as the arch area, then the
material would be chosen from a type of material known by one
skilled in the art that can be shaped and used to support an area
of a foot, for example, such as metal, leather, and/or plastic with
or without a top layer of another type of material. As a further
example, if the composite footwear insole 2 plurality of sections
10 should allow a portion of the foot to easily move, such as the
toe area, the ideal material will have a low co-efficient of
friction such as sheared fur 22 or silk 80 as shown in FIG. 1, or
nylon, polyester, metals, metal alloys and other such materials
known to one skilled in the art. If the insole 2, plurality of
sections 10 should have gripping properties such as in the heel
section 42, the material would be chosen from a type of material
known by one skilled in the art that is used to grip an area of a
foot such as rubber or foam, with or without a contoured surface.
Of course, any other materials that are known or used by one
skilled in the art for making insoles can be used for any of the
sections.
[0046] Also, certain sections have a top covering layer 3 that is
made of different materials to give the top portion of the sections
different characteristics. See e.g. FIGS. 3, 3A. A variety of
materials can be used for a top layer 3 such as silk 80, nylon,
polyester 92, leather 83, cotton, felt, linen, furs, partially
sheared fur 22 or short fur, such as moleskin 79, plastic 86,
metal, metal alloys, gels, and those consisting essentially of
silicon, polyester 92, neoprene 84, natural rubber foams, synthetic
rubber foams, polyurethane, polyether and polyester foams,
neoprene, vinyl nitrile, styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR),
polyethylene (PE), ethyl vinyl acetate (EVA), ethylene propylene
terpolymer (EPT), EPT/PE/butyl rubber, neoprene/EPT/SBR,
epichlorohydrin (ECH), and nitrile (NBR), and various types of
polymer foams, and other such materials known to one skilled in the
art. For example, the toe section 18 may have a top layer that is
slick like silk, or that is soft and/or has a low coefficient of
friction like fur. If another layer is desired, the additional
layer may be connected to the topside of a section by any means
known by one skilled in the art, including attachment members,
comprising hook and loop fasteners, snaps, magnets, stitching,
glue, adhesives, or any combination thereof.
[0047] Beginning at the posterior-most end 51 of the composite
footwear insole 2 disclosed, illustrated, and claimed in this
document of FIGS. 1, 3, 3A, 4, 4A, 5, 5A, 6, 6A, 7A-7G, there is a
heel section 42. The heel section 42 corresponds to the heel area
42b of the foot and is placed in the heel area 42a of the bottom
layer 4 of the insole 2. See FIGS. 3, 3A, and 4. The heel section
42 can be made of a variety of materials previously listed or any
combination of one or more of the foregoing, as well as others
known to one skilled in the art. In an embodiment, materials that
have gripping and/or cushioning properties are preferred. Also,
portions of the topside 5 of the section may be raised such as the
heel section 42 that have rounded protrusions 44, but may be of
like material like that of the section. For example, the heel
section 42 can made of rubber 90 or polymer foam 85 based materials
that have a plurality of protrusions 44 that are essential and have
a gripping and/or massaging action on the wearer's heel 42b. See
FIGS. 1, 3, 3A, 4, 4A and 4B. The plurality of protrusions 44 can
be of various heights from about 1/16 inch to about 1/4 inch. The
heel section 42 may also have a slight concave shape 66 so as to
cup the heel of the wearer's foot. See FIG. 4B. The protruding
members should also be rounded or flat at the top end so they do
not puncture or damage the heel of a wearer's foot, and can be
evenly or irregularly spaced. The heel section 42 can be removably
or securably attached to the bottom layer 4, or can be an integral
part of the bottom layer 4 and in an embodiment is molded neoprene
84.
[0048] As illustrated in FIG. 4, a longitudinal arch section 36 as
provided that corresponds to the longitudinal arch section 36b
portion of a foot and is placed in the arch area 36a of the bottom
layer 4 of the composite footwear insole 2. The longitudinal arch
section 36 can be of various lengths and widths and is usually
adjacent to the base section 30 area, see e.g. FIG. 5, or may be
longer and extend into the heel 42 and metatarsal sections 24 as in
FIG. 1
[0049] The longitudinal arch section 36 can be removably or
securably attached to the bottom layer 4, or can be an integral
part of the bottom layer 4. In an embodiment, the longitudinal arch
section 36 is shaped similarly to a wearer's foot arch, and serves
to support the arch. The longitudinal arch section 36 can be
comprised of a variety of materials that provide at least some
support and can be shaped, such as plastic 86, rubber 90 and other
materials known to one skilled in the art of such purposes.
[0050] Also, composite footwear insole 2 includes a metatarsal
section 24, which corresponds to the metatarsal section 24b of a
foot and is placed in the metatarsal area 24a of the bottom layer 4
of the insole 2. See FIGS. 3, 3A, 4. As shown in the side view of
FIGS. 3, 3A, 4, 4A, and 4B the metatarsal piece 24 is shaped with a
concave recess 67 that accommodates the first metatarsal joint of a
foot. It is made of materials that provide at least some support
and can be shaped and that are not completely rigid such as leather
83. Of course, synthetic materials that can be rigid or semi-rigid,
such as plastic and rubber and other materials known to one skilled
in the art for such purposes are also suitable. In an embodiment,
the surface of the metatarsal section 24 is preferably
substantially smooth, but does not have to be smooth. The
metatarsal section 24 corresponds to the metatarsal area of the
food.
[0051] Adjacent the anterior end 1 of the composite footwear insole
2 is the toe section 18 that corresponds to the toe region 18b of a
foot, and is placed in the toe are 8a of the bottom layer of the
insole 2. See FIGS. 4A-4B. The toe section 18 can be removably or
securably attached to the bottom layer 4, or can be an integral
part of the bottom layer 4. The toe section 18 can be comprised
from a variety of materials previously listed or any combination of
one or more of the foregoing, as well as others known to one
skilled in the art. Typically, the toe section 18 is covered with a
top covering layer 3, but does not require that the section be
covered by another type of material. In one embodiment, the top
covering layer 3 of the toe section 18 allows toe to easily move,
and materials that are slick 80, nylon, polyester 92, and furs that
are partially sheared or short fur 22, such as moleskin 79, which
have a low coefficient of friction and allow the toes to move or
slide, are preferable.
[0052] The base section 30 corresponds to the area of the composite
footwear insole 2 not covered by the other sections. In FIGS. 1 and
5, the base section 30 is the area adjacent to the longitudinal
arch section. The base section 30 is one of the largest, if not the
largest section, and should be made of durable material such as
leather 83, but can also be a variety of materials previously
listed or any combination of one or more of the foregoing, as well
as others known to one skilled in the art. The base section 30
corresponds to the base section of the foot and is placed in the
base area 30a of the bottom layer 4 of the composite footwear
insole 2. See FIGS. 3, 3A, and 4. In one embodiment, the base
section 30 is comprised of materials that have gripping and/or
cushioning properties.
[0053] FIG. 2 shows the bottom side 8 of the bottom layer 4 of FIG.
1. The bottom side 8 of the bottom layer 4 can be smooth or
textured. It can also have at least one attachment member 12, such
as those previously described with corresponding attachment members
12 on the bed 7 of the shoe to keep the composite footwear insole 2
in place. Of course, if desired, an assembled insole 2 can be
permanently anchored to the inside of the footwear 75 by adhesives,
glue, stitching, or other means known by one skilled in the
art.
[0054] FIG. 3 shows a right side view of a composite footwear
insole 2 of FIG. 3 with the plurality of sections 10 of the
composite footwear insole 2 in their relative positions but
unassembled. The left side of the composite footwear insole 2 of
FIG. 3A has a similar appearance of that of the right side view of
FIG. 4A with the exception that the bottom layer 4 appears adjacent
the arch section of the composite footwear insole 2 as dotted lines
in FIGS. 3 assembled composite footwear insole 2 in use in footwear
75, with the composite footwear insole 2 resting on the bed 7 of
the footwear 75.
[0055] FIGS. 3, 3A show the plurality of sections 10 of the
composite footwear insole 2 over a bottom layer 4 having a top side
6 and a bottom side 8. In an embodiment, the top side 6 of the
bottom layer 4 is covered with attachment members 12 that are
complimentary to those on the undersides of the plurality of
sections 10. Here, the hook components/fasteners 14 and counterpart
loop component/fasteners 16 are present on the bottom layer 4 and
on the underside 26 of the plurality of sections 10. The composite
footwear insole 2 also has a toe section 18 with a top surface 20
that in this embodiment is moleskin 79 or another type of short or
sheared fur 22. Next to the toe section 18 is a metatarsal section
24 with a concave recess/depression 67 to accommodate the
metartarsal joint of the foot. The metatarsal section 24 has a top
side 25 and an underside 26, wherein the underside 26 is attached
to the counterpart loop component/fasteners 16 in the same manner
as that described for the toe section 18. Adjacent to the
metatarsal section 24 is an arch section 36 with a raised arch area
35 that has a top surface 37 and a bottom surface 38, with
attachment members 12 attached thereto. The heel section 42 has a
top side 43. The top side 43 may have a plurality of protrusions 44
that serve to grip the heel, with a concave shape 66 that cradles
the heel of a wearer. In one embodiment, there is also a base
section 30 that has attachment members 12 on the underside 32. FIG.
4 shows the toe section 18, metatarsal section 24, arch section 36,
and heel section 42 in its assembled state with the attachment
members 12 joined to one another, thereby forming a holding
assembly 17.
[0056] FIGS. 5, 5A, 6, and 6A show composite footwear insole 2 for
a right foot with FIG. 5 being the top surface and FIG. 6 being the
bottom surface of the insole. FIG. 6 shows the bottom side 8 of the
bottom layer 4 of the composite footwear insole 2 with the
plurality of sections 10 comprising a toe section 18, a metatarsal
section 24, a base section 30, and an arch section 36. As also
shown by cross-reference between FIGS. 6-6A, a heel section 8 is
included
[0057] While the embodiment in FIGS. 5A and 6A show a continuous
section of attachment members 12 along the undersides of the
sections 18, 24, 30, 36, and 42, and along the top side of the
bottom layer, the attachment members 12 such as hook
component/fasteners 14 and counterpart loop component/fasteners 16
need not extend to the edges of the composite footwear insole 2
plurality of sections 10 or completely cover the bottom layer 4.
Moreover, if there is a void between the different sections, it may
be advantageous to avoid having hook component/fasteners 14 or
counterpart loop 16 component/fasteners along the entire length of
the bottom layer 4 in order to prevent snagging of hosiery and
socks, and to prevent discomfort for bare feet. The side views of
the composite footwear insole 2 plurality of sections 10
demonstrate that in an embodiment the sections have different
elevations 70 from the other sections, and the sections can have
different thickness 72 with respect to one another. See FIG. 3. For
comfort, the sections preferably have the same or similar
elevations where the sections interface one another. FIG. 4B shows
the use of the insole 2 in footwear 75 that has a raised arch area
36c. While the sections may have differing elevations, it is
desirable to have gradual changes in elevation so as to provide a
surface that is continuous, or nearly continuous for a user's
foot.
[0058] If desired, one or more of the composite footwear insole 2
plurality of sections 10 of invention may be combined with one
another, but yet have different materials in the region of the
toes, and/or metatarsal, and/or arch, and/or heel, and/or the
remainder of the insole, herein referred to as a base section
30.
[0059] A kit for providing the composite footwear insole 2
disclosed, illustrated, and claimed in this document for footwear
75 is shown in FIGS. 7A-7G. The kit comprises a bottom layer 4
having a top side 6, a plurality of sections 10 having a underside
31, wherein the underside 31 of one or more of plurality of
sections 10 is removably or securably attachable to the top side 6
of the bottom layer 4, wherein the plurality of sections 10 consist
essentially of at least one longitudinal arch section 36, at least
one heel section 42, at least one toe section 18, at least one
metatarsal section 24, a base section 30, attachment members 12 for
removably attaching the removably attachable sections to the top of
the bottom layer 4, wherein the attachment members are located of
the top side of the bottom layer 4 and on the underside 31 of the
removable plurality of sections 10, wherein an composite footwear
insole 2 is formed by removably attaching the underside 31 of one
of each of the plurality of sections 10 to the top side 6 of the
bottom layer 4. If desired one or more sections can also be
integral with the bottom layer 4.
[0060] In one embodiment, at least one section is comprised of at
least one material that is different from the material of the other
plurality of sections 10.
[0061] Also in an embodiment, the attachment members 12 comprise
Velcro.RTM. or similar hook components/fasteners 14 and counterpart
loop components/fasteners 16, wherein the hook components/fasteners
14 are attached to the top side 6 of the bottom layer 4 and the
counterpart loop components/fasteners 16 are attached to the
underside 31 of the removable plurality of sections 10, or wherein
the hook components/fasteners 14 are attached to the underside 31
of the removably plurality of sections 10 and the counterpart loop
components/fasteners 16 are attached to the top side 6 of the
bottom layer 4. The hook and loop components form a holding
assembly 17 and hold the plurality of sections 10 and bottom layer
4 together with the hook components/fasteners 14 and counterpart
loop components/fasteners 16 are joined.
[0062] Further in an embodiment, at least some of the sections have
a top layer 6.
[0063] The composite footwear insole 2 kit gives the user
versatility in choosing sections and is especially useful in
footwear for diabetics and others with pathologic or painful foot
conditions.
[0064] The kit has composite footwear insole 2 plurality of
sections 10 that are constructed of materials previously set forth
herein and any other materials used by one skilled in that art for
such purposes.
[0065] FIGS. 7A-7G show a kit that allows the user to choose the
material types for each section based upon comfort and needs. In
this system, one or more of each of the removable plurality of
sections 10 are provided for each foot, which allows the user to
choose and interchange sections depending upon what is most
comfortable and/or desirable. For example, while engaging in
exercise, a more or less rigid arch ay be preferred over the worn
in work shoes. Also, the arch, metatarsal, base, toe, and/or heel
sections can be of varying shapes, materials and elevations to
accommodate the feet of different users and for usage in different
activities for the same user, as long as there is a smooth
transition between the elevations of the sections so that the edges
of the sections do not protrude and do not cause discomfort during
use. FIGS. 7A, 7B, 7E and 7F show an assortment of sections in a
disassembled state that can be used in this composite footwear
insole 2. The plurality of sections 10 have attachment members 12
on at least a portion of their undersides as those shown on the
inside areas of the heel 42, base 30 and metatarsal 24 sections
FIG. 7G. The attachment members 12 can be placed on the entire
underside of the sections, for example longitudinal arch 36 and toe
18 sections. A strip of attachment members 12 such as hook
components/fasteners 14 and counterpart loop components/fasteners
16 of Velcro is placed on the underside of the metatarsal section
24 as in FIG. 7G, or in a cut-out type fashion, e.g. see heel
section 42, and any other or configuration so long as the sections
are adequately attached and do not become detached during use.
FIGS. 7C-7D shows two embodiments the top side 6 of the bottom
layer 4 of the composite footwear insole 2 with attachment members
12 thereon, so that the composite footwear insole 2 plurality of
sections 10 can be removably attached to the bottom layer 4. The
insole 2 plurality of sections 10 of FIGS. 7A-7B, 7E-7G can be of
varying elevations, shown in FIGS. 3A, 4A, that show the side view
of certain sections demonstrating that the sections have varying
thickness. FIG. 7F shows the top surface 20 covering toe section 18
covered with moleskin 79, while toe section 18 of FIG. 7G is
covered in silk 80, while another is covered in satin 88, see FIG.
7A, and another is covered in sheared fur 22, see FIG. 7E, and yet
another in polyester 92, see FIG. 7B. Other materials with a low
co-efficient of friction as well as other suitable materials known
to one skilled in the art can also be used. Of course, other
natural or synthetic materials, that are soft, cushioning, or rigid
or semi-rigid, can also be used or the section may not have any
covering over the material used to make the section.
[0066] FIGS. 7A-7B show metatarsal sections 24 made of leather 83
and of neoprene 84, respectively, and FIG. 7E and shows a base
section 30 made of EVA foam 85. These materials choices shown in
FIGS. 7A-7E are illustrative and other materials previously listed
and/or known to one skilled in the art can also be used for the
metatarsal sections of the insoles. Of course, other natural or
synthetic materials, that are soft, cushioning, or rigid or
semi-rigid, can also be used. While in some cases the section for
one foot is different than that for the material choices for the
other foot, in the accompanying figures for the other foot, the
figures are merely illustrative of the types of materials that can
be used for the sections of either or both feet.
[0067] FIG. 7A shows a base section 30 of made of leather 83, FIG.
7B shows a base section 30 made of EVA foam 85, FIG. 7E shows a
base section 30 made of neoprene 84, and FIG. 7F shows a base
section 30 comprised of plastic 86. Of course, other natural or
synthetic materials, that are soft, cushioning, or rigid or
semi-rigid, can also be used.
[0068] Heel section 42 of FIG. 7B is made of EVA foam 85 and has
protrusions 44 and a slightly concave surface, FIG. 7E shows a heel
section 42 made of rubber 90 that has protrusions 44 and a slightly
concave surface, while heel section 42 of FIG. 7A lacks
protrusions, and is made of neoprene 84.
[0069] Of course, the material types and surfaces of the sections
for the kits as well as the bottom layer can be comprised of any
material known to one skilled in the art as well as any of those
previously set forth herein.
[0070] There can be more or fewer of each of the sections in the
kit. These materials choices shown in FIGS. 7A-7F, as well as those
previously discussed are illustrative and other materials known to
one skilled in the art can also be used for the toe sections of the
insoles. Further, in an embodiment, the kits contain sections made
from like materials for each foot, but the insoles need not have
sections for each foot that are comprised of the same
materials.
[0071] It is also possible that some of the sections such as the
toe piece, heel piece, and metatarsal piece may be used for the
right foot and the left foot.
[0072] A method of making a multiface and/or multipiece insole for
footwear is also contemplated which comprises: providing a bottom
layer having a top side, providing a plurality of sections having
an underside, wherein the underside of one or more of the sections
is attachable to the top side of the bottom layer, and removably or
securably attaching the plurality of sections to the top side of
the bottom layer to form an insole.
[0073] In this method, the sections are comprised essentially of a
longitudinal arch section, a heel section, a toe section, a
metatarsal section, a base section, or any combination thereof.
[0074] In an embodiment, at least one section is integral with the
bottom layer, wherein the sections are comprised essentially of a
longitudinal arch section, a heel section, a toe section, a
metatarsal section, a base section, or any combination thereof.
[0075] The method can also further comprise the steps of: placing
attachment members for removably attaching the removably attachable
sections upon the top of the bottom layer and on the underside of
the removable sections, and attaching the sections to the bottom
layer. In an embodiment attachment members that comprise hook
components and loop components, wherein the hook components are
attached to the top side of the bottom layer and the loop
components are attached to the underside of the removable sections,
or wherein the hook components are attached to the underside of the
removable sections and the loop components are attached to the top
side of the bottom layer. When the hook and loop components are
joined, they form a holding assembly and hold the sections and
bottom layer together.
[0076] In this method, at least a portion of some of the sections
is comprised of materials different from those in the other
sections. Also, this method can be used in footwear for diabetics
and others with pathologic or painful foot conditions.
[0077] In an embodiment, a longitudinal arch section is removably
attached to the bottom layer and/or a heel section is removably
attached to the bottom layer and/or a toe section is removably
attached to the bottom layer and/or a metatarsal section is
removably attached to the bottom layer and/or a base section is
removably attached to the bottom layer.
[0078] In this method, the sections fit together similar to puzzle
pieces, and have shapes different from one another.
[0079] The insole is suitable for those with and without medical
conditions and is especially beneficial in footwear for diabetics
and others with pathologic or uncomfortable foot conditions.
[0080] The above description is that of preferred embodiments of
the invention. It is intended that all matter contained in the
above description and shown in the accompanying drawing is
illustrative rather than limiting. It should further be understood
that the following claims are intended to cover all of the generic
and specific features of the invention herein described.
[0081] Various alterations and changes can be made without
departing from the spirit and broader aspects of the invention as
defined in the appended claims, which are to be interpreted in
accordance with the principles of patent law including the doctrine
of equivalents.
* * * * *