U.S. patent application number 11/818667 was filed with the patent office on 2007-12-13 for energy translating footwear mechanism for enhancing forward.
This patent application is currently assigned to Sydney Design Technolo. Invention is credited to Daniel Arthur Talbott.
Application Number | 20070283599 11/818667 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 26722625 |
Filed Date | 2007-12-13 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070283599 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Talbott; Daniel Arthur |
December 13, 2007 |
Energy translating footwear mechanism for enhancing forward
Abstract
The present invention provides soles, platforms, or inserts
incorporated into footwear, preferably athletic footwear, designed
to promote a more efficient running technique by an
energy-translating sole comprising one or more angular displacement
members, balance-thrust members, and counterbalance as well as
conventional features. Systems and methods of the present invention
promote more efficient running technique by facilitating
foot-strike to occur at a point under and behind the runner's
center of gravity. This may be accomplished, for example, by a
foot-strike member, angular displacement member and balance-thrust
member working cooperatively to displace the runner's center of
gravity and translate gravitational, inertial and ground reaction
forces, as well as muscular tension forces, into linear
momentum.
Inventors: |
Talbott; Daniel Arthur;
(Portland, OR) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Karl Mullen
2724 NW Thurman St., #1
Portland
OR
97210
US
|
Assignee: |
Sydney Design Technolo
Portland
OR
|
Family ID: |
26722625 |
Appl. No.: |
11/818667 |
Filed: |
June 16, 2007 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10847731 |
May 18, 2004 |
7287340 |
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11818667 |
Jun 16, 2007 |
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10045299 |
Oct 23, 2001 |
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11818667 |
Jun 16, 2007 |
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60242742 |
Oct 23, 2000 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
36/129 ; 36/25R;
36/31 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A43B 13/12 20130101;
A43B 17/00 20130101; A43B 7/145 20130101; A43B 5/06 20130101; A43B
7/1425 20130101; A43B 7/1445 20130101; A43B 13/145 20130101; A43B
1/10 20130101; A43B 13/14 20130101; A43B 5/00 20130101; A43B 13/00
20130101; A43B 13/146 20130101; A43B 7/1435 20130101; A43B 13/188
20130101; A43B 13/148 20130101; A43B 21/30 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
036/129 ;
036/025.00R; 036/031 |
International
Class: |
A43B 13/14 20060101
A43B013/14; A43B 5/00 20060101 A43B005/00 |
Claims
1. A shoe sole unit comprising, one or more displacement members
located on the bottom of the shoe sole and extending downward from
the lower surface of the shoe sole, and wherein each displacement
member has a displacement point located between one-quarter and one
half of the distance between the front of the toe section and the
back of the heel section of the shoe sole and located vertically at
the lowest point on the displacement member on the perpendicular to
a first imaginary line passing through the point on the upper
interior surface of the plantar surface of the shoe sole located on
the medial side of the shoe sole between 25% and 40% of the length
of the shoe sole from the front of the shoe sole and the point
located on the upper interior surface of the plantar surface of the
shoe sole located at a point 75% to 95% of the length of the shoe
sole from the front of the shoe sole.
2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the number of displacement
points is two, one on the medial side and one on the lateral side
of the shoe sole.
3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the displacement point on the
medial side is closer to the front of the shoe sole than the
displacement point on the lateral side of the shoe sole.
4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the number of displacement
points is one.
5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the displacement member or
members have a number of displacement points from the medial side
to the lateral side of the shoe sole.
6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the displacement points move
generally toward the front of the shoe sole as they move from the
lateral side to the medial side of the shoe sole.
7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the angle between a second
imaginary line passing through the point on the upper interior
surface of the plantar surface of the shoe located at a point 6% of
the length of the shoe sole from the front of the shoe sole and the
point on the of the medial side of the shoe sole located on the
upper interior surface of the plantar surface at a point 31% of the
length of the shoe sole from the front of the shoe sole and a third
imaginary line passing through the displacement point at the lowest
point of the displacement member as measured perpendicular to the
first line and a line passing through a point approximately 6% of
the length of the shoe sole from the front of the shoe sole and
perpendicular to the second line is between zero degrees and 45
degrees.
8. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a counter rotation
member that extends downward from the bottom of the shoe sole and
that has a counter rotation point which is the lowest point on the
counter rotation member as measured perpendicular to the first
line, and wherein said counter rotation member is located along the
length of the shoe sole such that the counter rotation point is
farther from the front of the shoe sole than the displacement point
by at least 2% of the length of the shoe sole measured along the
first line.
9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein said counter rotation point is
located on or between the second and fifth lines.
10. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a balance thrust
member located closer to the front of the shoe sole than the
displacement point and having a balance thrust point located at the
lowest part of the balance thrust member as measured on a
perpendicular to the second line.
11. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the plantar surface of the
shoe sole is substantially rigid from at least as far back as the
point on the of the lateral side of the shoe sole located on the
upper interior surface of the plantar surface at a point above the
displacement member as measured along a line perpendicular to the
first line and continuing to the front of the toe section and being
continuously radiused upward going toward the front of the toe
section.
12. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein said substantially rigid
portion is comprised of material sufficiently rigid to prevent
deformation of such substantially rigid portion during use.
13. A shoe insert comprising, one or more displacement members
located on the bottom of the shoe insert and extending downward
from the lower surface of the shoe insert, and wherein each
displacement member has a displacement point located between
one-quarter and one half of the distance between the front of the
toe section and the back of the heel section of the shoe insert and
located vertically at the lowest point on the displacement member
on the perpendicular to a first imaginary line passing through the
point on the upper interior surface of the plantar surface of the
shoe insert located on the medial side of the shoe insert between
25% and 40% of the length of the shoe insert from the front of the
shoe insert and the point located on the upper interior surface of
the plantar surface of the shoe insert located at a point 75% to
95% of the length of the shoe insert from the front of the shoe
insert.
14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the number of displacement
points is two, one on the medial side and one on the lateral side
of the shoe insert.
15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the displacement point on
the medial side is closer to the front of the shoe insert than the
displacement point on the lateral side of the shoe insert.
16. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the number of displacement
points is one.
17. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the displacement member or
members have a number of displacement points from the medial side
to the lateral side of the shoe insert.
18. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the displacement points move
generally toward the front of the shoe insert as they move from the
lateral side to the medial side of the shoe insert.
19. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the angle between a second
imaginary line passing through the point on the upper interior
surface of the plantar surface of the shoe insert located at a
point 6% of the length of the shoe insert from the front of the
shoe insert and the point on the of the medial side of the shoe
insert located on the upper interior surface of the plantar surface
at a point 31% of the length of the shoe insert from the front of
the shoe insert and a third imaginary line passing through the
displacement point at the lowest point of the displacement member
as measured perpendicular to the first line and a line passing
through a point approximately 6% of the length of the shoe insert
from the front of the shoe insert and perpendicular to the second
line is between zero degrees and 45 degrees.
20. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the angle between the second
and third lines is less than the angle between the third line and a
fourth imaginary line passing through the point on the upper
interior surface of the plantar surface of the shoe insert located
at a point 6% of the length of the shoe insert from the front of
the shoe insert and the point on the of the lateral side of the
shoe insert located on the upper interior surface of the plantar
surface at a point 33% of the length of the shoe insert from the
front of the shoe insert, and less than the angle between the third
line and a fifth imaginary line parallel to the first line and
passing through the displacement point.
21. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the angle between the second
and third lines is less than the angle between the fifth and third
lines.
22. The apparatus of claim 13, further comprising a counter
rotation member that extends downward from the bottom of the shoe
insert and that has a counter rotation point which is the lowest
point on the counter rotation member as measured perpendicular to
the first line, and wherein said counter rotation member is located
along the length of the shoe insert such that the counter rotation
point is farther from the front of the shoe insert than the
displacement point by at least 2% of the length of the shoe insert
measured along said first line.
23. The apparatus of claim 21, wherein said counter rotation point
is located between on or between the second and fifth lines.
24. The apparatus of claim 13, further comprising a balance thrust
member located closer to the front of the shoe insert than the
displacement point and having a balance thrust point located at the
lowest part of the balance thrust member as measured on a
perpendicular to the second line.
25. The apparatus of claim 24, wherein the angle between the second
and third lines is less than the angle between the fifth and third
lines, greater than the angle between the second line and a seventh
imaginary line passing through the balance thrust point and the
point located at the intersection of the medial side of the shoe
insert located on the upper interior surface of the plantar surface
and a line drawn perpendicular to the first line and running
through the displacement point, and less than the angle between the
seventh and third lines.
26. The apparatus of claim 20, wherein the angle between the second
and third lines is less than the angle between the fifth and third
lines, less than the angle between the seventh and third lines, and
greater than the angle between the second and seventh lines,
wherein the angle between the seventh and third lines is greater
than the angle between the second and third lines, and wherein the
angle between said fourth and seventh lines must be less than the
angle between said second and seventh lines.
27. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the plantar surface of the
shoe insert is substantially rigid from at least as far back as the
point on the of the lateral side of the shoe insert located on the
upper interior surface of the plantar surface at a point above the
displacement member as measured along a line perpendicular to the
first line and continuing to the front of the toe section and being
continuously radiused upward going toward the front of the toe
section.
28. The apparatus of claim 27, wherein said substantially rigid
portion is comprised of material sufficiently rigid to prevent
deformation of such substantially rigid portion during use.
29. A method of making a shoe insert comprising, a generally shoe
shaped surface sufficiently thin to fit inside of a shoe, affixing
or forming one or more displacement members on the bottom of the
shoe shaped surface and extending downward from the lower surface
of the shoe shaped surface, each displacement member having a
displacement point located between one-quarter and one half of the
distance between the front of the toe section and the back of the
heel section of the shoe shaped surface and located vertically at
the lowest point on the displacement member on the perpendicular to
a first imaginary line passing through the point on the upper
interior surface of the plantar surface of the shoe shaped surface
located on the medial side of the shoe shaped surface between 25%
and 40% of the length of the shoe shaped surface from the front of
the shoe sole and the point located on the upper interior surface
of the plantar surface of the shoe shaped surface located at a
point 75% to 95% of the length of the shoe shaped surface from the
front of the shoe shaped surface, wherein the angle between a
second imaginary line passing through the point on the upper
interior surface of the plantar surface of the shoe shaped surface
located at a point 6% of the length of the shoe from the front of
the shoe shaped surface and the point on the of the medial side of
the shoe shaped surface located on the upper interior surface of
the plantar surface at a point 31% of the length of the shoe shaped
surface from the front of the shoe shaped surface and a third
imaginary line passing through the displacement point at the lowest
point of the displacement member as measured perpendicular to the
first line and a line passing through a point approximately 6% of
the length of the shoe sole from the front of the shoe sole and
perpendicular to the second line is between zero degrees and 45
degrees, wherein the angle between the second and third lines is
less than the angle between the third line and a fourth imaginary
line passing through the point on the upper interior surface of the
plantar surface of the shoe located at a point 6% of the length of
the shoe shaped surface from the front of the shoe shaped surface
and the point on the of the lateral side of the shoe shaped surface
located on the upper interior surface of the plantar surface at a
point 33% of the length of the shoe shaped surface from the front
of the shoe shaped surface, and less than the angle between the
third line and a fifth imaginary line parallel to the first line
and passing through the displacement point, adding a counter
rotation member that extends downward from the bottom of the shoe
shaped surface and that has a counter rotation point which is the
lowest point on the counter rotation member as measured
perpendicular to the first line, and wherein said counter rotation
member is located along the length of the shoe shaped surface such
that the counter rotation point is farther from the front of the
shoe shaped surface than the displacement point and on or between
said second and fifth lines, and wherein the angle between the
second and third lines is less than the angle between the fifth and
third lines and less than the angle between the seventh and third
lines.
30. The method of claim 29 further comprising providing one or more
balance thrust members located closer to the front of the toe
section of the shoe shaped surface than the displacement point and
each having a balance thrust point located at the lowest part of
the balance thrust member as measured on a perpendicular to the
third line.
31. The method of claim 29 further comprising making the plantar
surface of the shoe shaped surface sufficiently rigid to prevent
deformation during use from at least as far back as the point on
the of the lateral side of the shoe shaped surface located on the
upper interior surface of the plantar surface at a point above the
displacement member as measured along a line perpendicular to the
first line and continuing to the front of the toe section and
causing it to be continuously radiused upward going toward the
front of the toe section.
32. A sole unit for a shoe comprising: a rigidifying element
disposed between at least a sesamoidal line and a balance-thrust
line; an angular displacement member disposed at the sesamoidal
line, and a balance-thrust member disposed at a balance thrust
line, the angular displacement member and balance thrust member
being positioned and adapted so that when both members are in
contact with ground, the sesamoid apparatus of the wearer's foot is
elevated with respect to the digits, placing the wearer in a
digitigrade stance during at least a substantial portion of the
support-propulsive phases of the gait cycle.
33. The sole member of claim 32, further comprising a foot strike
member, an angular displacement member, and a balance-thrust
member, the aforesaid members cooperating during at least a portion
of the support-propulsive phases of the running cycle to facilitate
linear momentum, the angular displacement member being positioned
at least in the metatarsal area of a foot and substantially
underlying at least an area under the sesamoid apparatus of the
first metatarsal, the balance-thrust member being located forward
of the angular displacement and is at least in an area underlying
or ahead of the distal phalanges.
34. The sole member of claim 32 wherein the angular displacement
member comprises an essentially non-deformable material.
35. A shoe having an upper and a foot supporting member, the foot
supporting member comprising: a substantially rigid member having a
dorsal surface and a plantar surface; wherein the plantar surface
has an angular displacement member comprising a convex portion and
a forwardly disposed balance-thrust member comprising a concave
portion, the concave portion extending forward past the tips of the
digits and terminating distally at a downwardly projecting
balance-thrust member, the convex portion and the concave portion
cooperating to accommodate the wearer in a digitigrade stance
during at least a substantial portion of the support-propulsive
phases of the running cycle, and the convex portion includes a
curved angular displacement surface below the sesamoid apparatus of
the first metatarsal phalangeal joint and defining a first axis of
rotation of the foot.
36. A shoe according to claim 35 wherein said curved angular
displacement surface and said balance thrust member are positioned
so that when both are in contact with ground, the sesamoid
apparatus is elevated with respect to the digits.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a divisional application of co-pending
application Ser. No. 10/847,731 filed May 18, 2004 and application
Ser. No. 10/045,299 filed on Oct. 23, 2001, which claim priority to
provisional application No. 60/242,742, filed on Oct. 23, 2000, and
to PCT patent application No. PCT/US01/51382, filed on Oct. 23,
2001, which also claims priority to provisional application No.
60/242,742, filed on Oct. 23, 2000. The priority of the prior
applications is expressly claimed and their disclosures are hereby
incorporated by reference in their entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates to athletic shoe technology.
More particularly, it relates to systems and methods for various
forms of energy-translating soles, or platforms, or inserts, which
are incorporated into footwear and are designed to more effectively
transfer gravitational, inertial and ground reaction forces into
linear momentum thereby promoting a more efficient running
technique.
[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0005] Athletic shoe technology has undergone a revolution over the
past thirty years, particularly in regards to improvements in
running shoes, both for the professional and casual user. In
general, the majority of advancements in running shoe technology
have largely centered around support, shock absorption and energy
efficiency. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,909,948 describes an
athletic shoe sole having a lateral stability element to provide
improved lateral support during heel-strike. U.S. Pat. Nos.
5,247,742 and 5,297,349 describe a cushioning sole for athletic
shoes having a pronation control device incorporated into the
midsole in order to increase the resistance to compression of the
midsole from the lateral side to a maximum along the medial side,
and U.S. Pat. No. 5,987,779 describes an athletic shoe having an
inflatable tongue or bladder for a more secure fit.
[0006] A major focus in athletic shoe technology has centered on
shock absorption. A number of patents describe various systems for
shock absorption, such as air channels, miniature pumps, hydraulic
systems, gas-filled bladders, elastomeric foam elements, pneumatic
inflation devices and spring elements. The following are
illustrative of such technologies: U.S. Pat. No. 5,598,645, U.S.
Pat. No. 4,535,553, U.S. Pat. No. 5,325,964, U.S. Pat. No.
5,353,523, U.S. Pat. No. 5,839,209, U.S. Pat. No. 5,983,529 and
U.S. Pat. No. 4,763,426.
[0007] Embodiments of the present invention are distinct from the
athletic shoe technologies pertaining to additional support or
shock absorption described above in that systems and methods of the
present invention focus on locomotion efficiency.
[0008] There have been several shoe systems related to increasing
energy efficiency during running, such as U.S. Pat. No. 4,358,902,
which describes a thrust-producing shoe comprising a sole having
fluid-filled cavities located in the heel and metatarsal portions
with passageways interconnecting the fluid-filled cavities. As the
heel cavity is compressed, fluid is forced through the passageways
into the metatarsal cavities thereby providing shock absorption and
forward thrust in the heel and metatarsal area.
[0009] U.S. Pat. No. 4,030,213 discloses a sporting shoe having an
auxiliary sole member that is relatively thick under the toe
portion and its outer surface is curved to form nearly a half
circle at the forward extremity of the toe section and the rearward
extremity at the ball of the foot is relatively flat. An additional
embodiment describes a plurality of recesses within the sole of the
shoe for housing a number of coil springs.
[0010] U.S. Pat. No. 4,506,460 describes a spring moderator for
articles of footwear, wherein a high modulus moderator is
positioned beneath the heel or forefoot with a cushioning medium
beneath the moderator. The spring moderator operates to absorb,
redistribute and store the energy of localized loads.
[0011] U.S. Pat. No. 4,936,030 provides an energy efficient running
shoe having an energy-transmission mechanism in the heel portion of
the sole to transmit the mechanical energy of heel impact to the
storage/thrust mechanism in the front sloe portion, where it is
stored and released during thrust. A number of embodiments are
described having sophisticated systems employing lever arms, coils
springs, hydraulic assemblies and the like for capturing and
transferring mechanical energy.
[0012] U.S. Pat. No. 4,949,476 discloses a running shoe having a
hard front sole for retaining gripping elements and, from the ball
to the shank of the foot, an upwardly extending support cup on the
outside of the shoe upper. The front sole extends into the shank
portion of the shoe and covers a support wedge member. The wedge
member extends from the ball of the foot to the shank and is
progressively thicker towards the rear portion of the shoe. The
wedge shaped member causes the foot to be brought into an extended
position for emphasizing contact with the ground with the front
outside ball region of the foot. This configuration serves to
increase running efficiency by keeping the heel in an elevated
position, which is the preferred attitude during sprinting.
[0013] U.S. Pat. No. 5,586,398 provides an article of footwear for
more efficient running and walking wherein the contour of the outer
sole at the heel is formed at a dihedral angle to the
medial/forefoot portions in order to delay the instant of initial
contact and thereby allow a longer length of foot flight and
correspondingly longer stride length. An additional embodiment
provides for friction management through materials selection,
surface coatings, or surface treatments designed to affect friction
across one or more interfaces between foot plantar surface and shoe
insole.
[0014] U.S. Pat. No. 5,647,145 describes a sculptured sole for an
athletic shoe comprising a plurality of forward support pads,
rearward support lands, a layer of flexible resilient elastic
material interconnecting various components, as well as a plurality
of channels, grooves, slots and the like, which complement the
natural flexing actions of the muscles of the heel, metatarsals and
toes of the foot.
[0015] U.S. Pat. No. 5,680,714 discloses a trampoline effect
athletic shoe having elastic return strips running across the sole
of the shoe and supported above the bottom surface in a gap between
the outsole and insole.
[0016] U.S. Pat. No. 5,829,172 relates to shoe soles of running
shoes, particularly for 100 m sprints and the like. The object of
the invention is to prevent the heel from touching the ground
during running and thereby prevent a decrease in running
efficiency. The sole comprises a thickly formed forefoot section
for receiving spikes. A Reinforcing member provided in the ball
region of the foot is integrated with reward-projecting medial and
lateral ribs to form a wedge-shaped plane extending toward the
heel. Medial and lateral ribs and reinforcing member form a
wedge-shaped inclined plane extending form the ball to the arch of
the foot, which serves to maintain the weight distribution of the
runner over the ball of the foot and hold the heel of the foot in
an elevated position.
[0017] U.S. Pat. No. 5,743,028 describes a spring-air shock
absorption and energy return device for shoes in which a shoe heel
insert is provided having a heel-shaped outer spring mechanism
which serves as an internal spring housing wherein a plurality of
compression springs are retained, and wherein the entire unit is
filled with a pressurized gas and hermetically sealed.
[0018] U.S. Pat. No. 5,87,568 pertains to an athletic shoe wherein
the sole has a rounded heel strike area and gently curved bottom
that gradually thins towards the toe section to permit the runner
to roll smoothly forward from the initial heel strike. Additional
embodiments further provide for a shock-absorbing insert in the
heel section.
[0019] U.S. Pat. No. 5,937,544 provides athletic footwear wherein
the sole includes a foundation layer of semi-flexible material
attached to the upper and defining a plurality of stretch chambers,
a stretch layer and a thruster layer attached to the stretch layer
such that interactions can occur between the foundation layer,
stretch layer and thruster layer in response to compressive forces
applied thereto so as to convert and temporarily store energy
applied to regions of the sole by wearer's foot into mechanical
stretching of the portions of the stretch layer into stretch
chambers. The stored applied energy is thereafter retrieved in the
form of rebound of the stretched portions of the stretch layer and
portions of the thruster layer.
[0020] U.S. Pat. No. 6,006,449 and U.S. Pat. No. 6,009,636 relates
to footwear having various forms of spring assemblies incorporated
into the sole, which serve to absorb shock and transfer energy.
[0021] The foregoing and other known prior art have fundamental
disadvantages in that they are not directed at improving efficiency
by synchronizing the three basic phases of the human running cycle,
seen illustrated in FIGS. 6A-6C with elements on the shoe that
optimize momentum, efficiency, and fluidity of motion through the
cycle. For example, prior art shoes place the wearer in a
plantigrade stance, as shown in FIG. 7. Generally, a plantigrade
stance is created between the balance of two points: one at the
calcaneous and the other at the metatarsal/phalanges joints.
Relative to the digitigrade stance provided through the novel
embodiments of the present invention described below, plantigrade
shoe systems are inefficient in that in subject the wearer of the
shoe systems to greater breaking forces during running cycles.
[0022] Rather than hydraulic or pneumatic systems; mechanical
spring and/or lever assemblies; resilient elastic bands; alteration
of the heel-strike region; or reinforcing structures to maintain
the heel in an elevated position, the present invention provides
systems and methods that promote efficient running technique by
providing a sole comprising a specially designed foot-strike member
and balance-thrust member, which are integrated with a unique pivot
and balance structure that displaces the wearer's center of gravity
when running, thereby transferring gravitational, inertial and
ground reaction forces, as well as muscular tension generation into
linear momentum. Systems and methods of the present invention are
an advance in the field of athletic shoe technology by providing a
specialized sole design for redirecting the forces encountered
during running into linear momentum, while reducing the shock and
trauma to the body. The present invention provides novel footwear
and components thereof for achieving a more efficient centering of
mass that helps improve transfer of momentum energy to a stable
platform for propulsion during toe-off (propulsion) phase of
gait.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0023] Systems and methods of the present invention provide
energy-translating soles, platforms, or inserts for footwear,
preferably athletic footwear, designed to promote a more efficient
running technique. In one aspect, promoting a more efficient
running technique is facilitated by an energy-translating sole
comprising one or more of the following features: at least one
foot-strike member, one or more angular displacement members and at
least one balance-thrust member, as well as other conventional
features.
[0024] In another aspect, systems and methods of the present
invention promote more efficient running technique by facilitating
foot-strike to occur at a point under and behind the runner's
center of gravity. This is accomplished by the foot-strike member,
angular displacement member and balance-thrust member working
cooperatively to displace the runner's center of gravity and
translate gravitational, inertial and ground reaction forces, as
well as muscular tension forces, into linear momentum.
[0025] In a further aspect, systems and methods of the present
invention provide one or more foot-strike members, which may be
situated in any location along the longitudinal axis (X axis) of
the energy-translating sole with a front zone extending into the
forefoot area and a rear zone optionally extending into the heel
section. Foot-strike member may encompass the entire heel to
forefoot sections, and/or any region there between. The medial and
lateral margins of foot-strike member may generally follow the
natural contours of the foot, and in embodiments wherein
foot-strike member extends rearwardly to the heel, foot-strike
member generally follows the contour of the heel.
[0026] In yet another aspect, angular displacement member is
generally located forward of foot-strike member, and is generally
positioned in the forefoot or metatarsal area of the foot. The
front margins of angular displacement member may extend well into
the toe section of sole with the rear margin optionally extending
along the longitudinal axis well into the arch section of the sole.
In a related aspect, various embodiments employ specially
configured angular displacement members to suit particular running
needs.
[0027] In another aspect, angular displacement member may have any
number and/or sort of traction-related features, such as, but not
limited to, grooves, channels, ribs, points, raised projections of
any sort, and the like.
[0028] In still yet another aspect, angular displacement member is
geometrically designed to provide a pivoting zone, preferably
running transversely in the Z-axis between medial and lateral
margins. Pivot zone may be located at or near the sesamoidal line
along the longitudinal axis (X-axis) within angular displacement
member depending upon the particular embodiment. Preferred
embodiments of the present invention have pivoting zone
encompassing the metatarsal region of the foot at or near the
sesamoid bones of the first metatarsal head.
[0029] In a further aspect, systems and methods of the present
invention provide one or more balance-thrust members, which
generally encompass the toe section of the sole. Alternative
embodiments may provide at least one balance-thrust member further
comprising a plurality of traction facilitating members, such as
spikes, teeth, ridges, grooves and the like. Medial and lateral
margins of balance-thrust member generally follow the natural
contours of the anatomical features of the foot, but the overall
configuration and orientation of balance-thrust member varies with
each particular embodiment.
[0030] In yet another aspect, the present invention provides a
plurality of embodiments specifically designed for different
running needs, which is partially dictated by the speed and
distance involved. Each particular embodiment has a unique
configuration and orientation of foot-strike member, angular
displacement member and balance-thrust members to accommodate the
unique biomechanical requirements of various types of running.
[0031] Other aspects of the present invention provide systems and
methods to effectively displace the runner's center of gravity and
translate gravitational, inertial and ground reaction forces into
linear momentum. In another aspect, the present invention provides
a platform that provides a rotational base for dissipating the
shock of foot strike, thereby providing a more comfortable running
shoe, which helps reduce the risk of injury associated with
forceful foot strike.
[0032] These and other objects, advantages, and features of this
invention will become apparent upon review of the following
specification and accompanying drawings.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE DRAWINGS
[0033] FIG. 1A shows a conventional shoe illustrating general
features of a running shoe typically found in the prior art.
[0034] FIG. 1B is a lateral perspective of the skeletal system of
the human foot depicting the various anatomical features in
relation to conventional footwear.
[0035] FIG. 2 shows a stylized plantar view of one embodiment of an
athletic shoe sole of the present invention in spatial reference to
the human foot.
[0036] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional side view of an athletic shoe
employing systems of the present invention.
[0037] FIG. 4A is an alternative embodiment designed for distance
running.
[0038] FIG. 4B is an additional embodiment designed for
mid-distance running, such as a 1500 m race.
[0039] FIG. 4C shows yet another embodiment specifically designed
for short-distance sprints, such as a 100 m race.
[0040] FIGS. 5A-D illustrate the correlation of foot cycle, that is
from foot-strike to angular displacement point, to angle 2 of
redirection of energy into maximum linear momentum for and
embodiment for short-distance sprints, such as a 100 m race (5A),
mid-to-long distance sprints, such as a 800 m race (5B),
mid-distance running, such as a 1,500 m race (5C) and long-distance
running, such as jogging (5D).
[0041] FIG. 6 is a side view of an additional embodiment of the
shoe sole version with a balance thrust member, showing the
relative angles and positioning of the various elements.
[0042] FIG. 7 is a side view of an additional embodiment of the
shoe sole version with a rigid forward section instead of a balance
thrust member, showing the relative angles and positioning of the
various elements.
[0043] FIG. 8 is a side view of an additional embodiment of the
shoe insert version with a balance thrust member, showing the
relative angles and positioning of the various elements.
[0044] FIG. 9 is a side view of an additional embodiment of the
shoe insert version with a rigid forward section instead of a
balance thrust member, showing the relative angles and positioning
of the various elements.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0045] While the invention may be embodied in different forms to
achieve more optimal centering of mass, the specific embodiments
shown in the figures and described herein are presented with the
understanding that they are exemplary of the principles of the
invention and are not intended to limit the invention to that
specifically illustrated and described herein. FIG. 1A shows a
generic form of footwear comprising an upper, indicated generally
as 10, and a sole unit which generally may comprise (i) a midsole
for energy absorption and/or return; (ii) an outsole material for
surface contact and abrasion resistance and/or traction; or (iii) a
single unit providing such midsole or outsole functions. For
example, the sole unit shown in FIG. 1A includes a midsole 12, an
outsole 114 and an insole 16 on the interior lower surface of the
footwear. The sole unit can cover some or all of the area of the
supported foot.
[0046] As is well known in the art, the sole unit may include
resilient elements that provide cushioning against shock. They may
also be of a nature that provides energy return (in essence,
spring) upon impact. For convenience, unless otherwise expressly or
contextually indicated, "resilient element" refers to an element
with either energy absorption and/or return functionality. One or
more resilient elements may be included in a sole unit at locations
where cushioning may be needed. For example, the rearfoot portion
of the sole unit would typically require cushioning, and resilient
element may be located there. Similarly, forefoot section may
include one or more resilient elements.
[0047] The shoe illustrated in FIG. 1A has a conventional shoelace
18 engaged in eyelets 20. Upper 10 is partially split at the
central, top portion of the footwear wherein lies some form of
closure system 24, such as a conventional tongue. Collar 22 is
provided to support the foot and/or ankle. Generally speaking,
conventional shoes may be divided into heel (A), arch (B), ball or
forefoot (C) and toe (D) regions. These elements of the footwear
illustrated in FIG. 1A are generally conventional. Athletic shoes
of the present invention comprise such conventional features, as
well as others in conjunction with a specially designed sole
system. FIG. 1B is a lateral perspective of the skeletal system of
the human foot wherein the heel (A), arch (B), ball (C) and toe (D)
regions of a conventional shoe align, in a general sense, with the
anatomical structures depicted therein.
[0048] FIGS. 2-3 show a stylized plantar view of the first
preferred embodiment of an athletic shoe sole, namely an
energy-translating sole 100 of the present invention, in spatial
reference to the human foot. FIG. 3 depicts a cross-sectional side
view of the same embodiment. In certain broad aspects, systems and
methods of the present invention provide an energy-translating sole
unit, that is incorporated into shoes, preferably athletic shoes,
including one or more of the following features: at least one
foot-strike member 102, one or more angular displacement members
104, with its apex falling at or near the sesamoid apparatus
medially and extending under lesser metatarsal heads laterally, and
at least one balance-thrust member 106. As illustrated, there may
be considerable overlap of the various members 102, 104, 106, but
in alternative embodiments, members 102, 104, 106, may not
necessarily have appreciable overlap. In general, systems and
methods of the present invention promote more efficient running
technique by facilitating foot-strike to occur at a point under and
behind the runner's center of gravity. Foot-strike member 102,
angular displacement member 104, and balance-thrust member 106 work
cooperatively, creating a stable forefoot platform and smoother
transition from footstrike to toe-off, and to displace the runner's
center of gravity and translate gravitational, inertial and ground
reaction forces, as well as muscular tension forces, into linear
momentum.
[0049] As will be described in greater detail below, systems and
methods of the present invention provide a plurality of embodiments
specifically designed for different running needs, which is
partially dictated by the speed and distance involved. The
particular embodiment depicted in FIGS. 2 and 3 comprises footwear
designed for running a mid-to-long distance sprint, such as a 400 m
race. It is understood that the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 2 and
3 are merely illustrative of the general principles of the present
invention and are not meant to be limiting in any respect.
[0050] Foot-strike member 102 is generally made of any conventional
dense, semi-deformable, wear resistant material, such as synthetic
polymers and plastics of any sort, having sufficient compliance and
resiliency features to adequately absorb a relative portion of
impact forces imparted to the shoe and body of the runner upon
initial contact with a supporting surface. Various embodiments of
the present invention may employ materials that are more suitable
for that particular application. For example, an embodiment for
distance running may utilize a material for foot-strike member 102
having greater indices of compliancy and resiliency than an
embodiment for sprinting. Foot-strike member 102 comprises a front
zone 112 (FIG. 3) (112 also is the location of the sesamoidal line
referred to herein and in the claims as "sesamoidal line," which is
generally the location of the sesamoid apparatus of the first
metatarsal phalangeal joint) extending towards toe section 126
(FIG. 2) and a rear zone 114 extending towards heel section 120. In
preferred embodiments, front zone of foot-strike member 112 (112
also is the location of the sesamoidal line referred to herein and
in the claims as "sesamoidal line," which is generally the location
of the sesamoid apparatus of the first metatarsal phalangeal joint)
is arcuately formed to follow the natural anatomical features of
the foot, but alternative embodiments also include additional
configurations and foot-strike member rear zone 114 generally
follows the anatomical margins of the foot, such as the arch and
heel. Foot-strike member 102 may be situated in any location along
the longitudinal axis (X axis) of sole 100 with front zone 112 (112
also is the location of the sesamoidal line referred to herein and
in the claims as "sesamoidal line," which is generally the location
of the sesamoid apparatus of the first metatarsal phalangeal joint)
extending into forefoot section 124 rear zone 114 extending into
heel section 120 and may encompass the entire heel 120 to forefoot
124 sections, and/or any region there between. The medial 108 and
lateral 110 margins of foot-strike member 102 generally follow the
natural contours of the foot, and in embodiments wherein
foot-strike member 102 extends rearwardly to the heel, foot-strike
member 102 generally follows the contour of the heel.
[0051] Foot-strike member 102 may be of a singular uniform molded
composition or alternatively, be provided in a layered or composite
configuration. Plantar surface 116 of foot-strike member 102 may be
integral with and/or adjacent to any conventional outsole having
any number and/or type of traction-related features, such as, but
not limited to, grooves, channels, ribs, points, raised projections
of any sort, and the like. Furthermore, foot-strike member 102 may
further comprise any conventional pneumatic and/or hydraulic cells,
bladders, chambers and the like to further facilitate and control
shock absorption.
[0052] The configuration, dimensions and preferred construction
materials of foot-strike member 102, as well as angular
displacement member 104 and balance-thrust member 106, is largely
dependent upon the particular embodiment. The embodiment presented
in FIGS. 2 and 3 show foot-strike member 102 having a generalized
elliptical form having a thickness ranging from 0.5 to 10 cm, with
front zone 112 (112 also is the location of the sesamoidal line
referred to herein and in the claims as "sesamoidal line," which is
generally the location of the sesamoid apparatus of the first
metatarsal phalangeal joint) tapering towards, and transitioning
with and/or into angular displacement member 104 and rear zone 114
tapering and transitioning with and/or into one or more support
bases 158 (also referred to herein and in the claims as the plantar
surface of the substantially rigid member). Naturally, the tapered
ends of foot-strike member may fall outside the provided ranges.
Support base 158 may be integral with and/or adjacent to any
conventional outsole having any number and/or type of
traction-related features, such as, but not limited to, grooves,
channels, ribs, points, raised projections of any sort, and the
like.
[0053] Angular displacement member 104 is located forward, towards
forefoot 124 and toe regions 126, of foot-strike member and is
generally positioned in the forefoot or metatarsal area 124 of the
foot. Front zone 128 of angular displacement member 104 is
generally arcuately designed and may extend well into toe section
126 of sole 100 and rear zone 130 of angular displacement member
104 may extend along the longitudinal axis well into arch section
122 of sole 100. Alternative embodiments envision angular
displacement member 104 being more compact, that is, encompassing
less surface area, and more discreetly positioned over the
metatarsal and/or metatarsal-phalanges areas of the foot. Dorsal
surface 134 of angular displacement member 104 is integrated with
or fixedly adhered to support base 158 (also referred to herein and
in the claims as the plantar surface of the substantially rigid
member). Plantar surface 132 of rear zone 130 of angular
displacement member 104 is fixedly integrated with and/or adhered
to dorsal surface 118 (also referred to herein and in the claims as
the dorsal surface of the substantially rigid member) of front
tapering zone 112 (112 also is the location of the sesamoidal line
referred to herein and in the claims as "sesamoidal line," which is
generally the location of the sesamoid apparatus of the first
metatarsal phalangeal joint) of foot-strike member 102, such that a
relatively smooth transition between foot-strike 102 and angular
displacement 104 members is achieved and a strong, permanent bond
or integral component is provided. In preferred embodiments,
plantar surface 132 of angular displacement member 104 may have any
number and/or sort of traction-related features, such as, but not
limited to, grooves, channels, ribs, points, raised projections of
any sort, and the like. Medial 136 and lateral 138 margins of
angular displacement member 104 generally follow the natural
anatomical profile of the foot and, preferably, flow smoothly into
respective medial 108 and lateral 110 margins of foot-strike member
102.
[0054] Angular displacement member 104 is geometrically designed to
provide a pivoting zone 140, preferably running transversely in the
Z-axis between medial 136 and lateral 138 margins. Preferred
embodiments of the present invention have pivoting zone 140 in the
forefoot 124 region, and more preferably encompassing the
metatarsal region of the foot at or near the sesamoidal line. Pivot
zone 140 may be located anywhere along the longitudinal axis
(X-axis) within angular displacement member 104 depending upon the
particular embodiment. Pivot zone 140 may be variously shaped, but
in preferred embodiments, is arcuately formed to follow the natural
curvature and anatomical structures of the foot, such as, but not
limited to, the metatarsal-phalanges articulations, as well as
accommodate and exploit the natural lateral to medial rolling of
the foot during running. Systems and methods of the present
invention are designed to promote more efficient running technique
by facilitating foot-strike to occur at a point under and behind
the runner's center of gravity. Foot-strike member 102, angular
displacement member 104, and balance-thrust member 106 work
cooperatively, creating a stable forefoot platform and smoother
transition from footstrike to toe-off, and to displace the runner's
center of gravity and translate gravitational, inertial and ground
reaction forces, as well as muscular tension forces into linear
momentum. During use of the present invention, the sesamoid
apparatus 142 of the wearer's foot is generally elevated with
respect to the digits 106 of the wearer's foot, resulting in a
digitigrade stance.
[0055] Front zone of angular displacement member 128 is integral
with, and/or fixedly adhered to, rear section 148 of balance-thrust
member 106 in an overlapping or abutting manner. Balance-thrust
member 106 is located forward (i.e., towards toe section 126) of
angular displacement member 104 and generally encompasses the front
part of forefoot section 124 and all of toe section 126 of sole
100. Depending upon the particular embodiment, balance-thrust
member 106 may be formed of semi-deformable material or essentially
non-deformable material, but in general, comprises a material
having relatively less compliancy and resiliency than that of
foot-strike member 102, such as conventional synthetic polymers
and/or plastics, such that significant levels of kinetic and
mechanical energy are not overly dampened by deformation of the
material. In select embodiments, such as depicted in FIGS. 2 and 3,
as well as others, balance-thrust member 106 may be provided with a
plurality of traction-facilitating elements projecting from plantar
surface 150 (150 also is the location of the balance thrust line
referred to herein and in the claims as "balance thrust line"),
such as, but not limited to, spikes, teeth, cleats, ridges and the
like. Such traction-facilitating elements may be fixedly connected
to, and/or releasably integrated with, and/or integrally formed
from balance-thrust member 106 by any conventional methods. Choice
of construction materials for balance-thrust member 106 should have
sufficient hardness, as determined by conventional methods, to
retain traction-facilitating elements and effectively transmit
forces from sole 100 to supporting surface and vice versa.
[0056] Front zone 146 of balance-thrust member 106 extends up to,
and in select embodiments, extends beyond, the phalanges distal
margin of the first metatarsal bone. Front zone 146 of
balance-thrust member 106 ends in a termination point 160, which
may be in the form of traction facilitating members, such as
spikes, teeth, ridges, grooves and the like, depending upon the
particular embodiment. Termination point 160 may be variously
located long the longitudinal axis (X-axis) of sole 100. For
example, FIG. 2 depicts a shoe designed for mid-to-long distance
sprinting and has termination point 160 at a downward-projecting
angle and extending somewhat beyond the forward perimeter of
support base 158 (also referred to herein and in the claims as the
plantar surface of the substantially rigid member) and upper 10,
but other embodiments, such as a distance shoe and/or jogging shoe,
may have termination point extend even further beyond the forward
perimeter of support base 158 (also referred to herein and in the
claims as the plantar surface of the substantially rigid member)
and upper 10 and not have as pronounced a downward projecting
angle. Medial 154 and lateral 156 margins of balance-thrust member
106 generally follow the natural contours of the anatomical
features of the foot. As with other aspects of the present
invention, plantar surface 150 area of balance-thrust member varies
with each particular embodiment (150 also is the location of the
balance thrust line referred to herein and in the claims as
"balance thrust line"). For purposes of example, select
embodiments, such as in FIG. 2, lateral margin 156 may define a
more focused balance-thrust member, that is, delineate plantar
surface 150 area of balance-thrust member 106 to encompass the
first through fourth metatarsal-phalanges areas of the foot, such
that horizontal propulsive forces at toe-off are effectively
focused on the most relevant parts of the foot (150 also is the
location of the balance thrust line referred to herein and in the
claims as "balance thrust line").
[0057] FIGS. 4A-C depict second, third and fourth embodiments of
the present invention. As previously mentioned, systems and methods
of the present invention are variously configured to accommodate
different types of running, such as, but not limited to,
long-distance running or jogging (FIG. 4A), intermediate distances,
such as 1,500 m racing (FIG. 4B), mid-to-long distance sprints,
such as 400 m racing (described in detail above and in FIGS. 2 and
3), and short-distance sprints, such as 100 m racing (FIG. 4C).
[0058] Kinesiological analysis of running has demonstrated
different types and speeds of running involve different
biomechanics. During a running cycle involving a heel-strike, such
as jogging, various portions of the foot undergo a number of
movements and are exposed to various forces. When foot-strike, that
is heel-strike, is initiated, the foot is in supination and as
contact progresses pronation permits partial absorption of impact
forces. As the foot transitions from mid-support to takeoff,
resupination, or transfer to the lateral ball portion of the foot
occurs as the foot becomes a rigid lever. The continuous motion
transfers from lateral to the medial ball of the foot as the foot
accelerates through toe-off. In contrast, during sprinting, the
ground strike occurs in the forefoot or metatarsal area of the foot
and the point of impact tends to be under or slightly behind their
center of gravity. As a result, this form of running has less of
the deceleration phase associated with heel-strike running and
propels the body mass forward more efficiently.
[0059] Systems and methods of the present invention provide a range
of embodiments to accommodate these biomechanical requirements. In
general, the angle of displacement is directly related to the type
and speed of running. In short, the faster the running speed, the
higher the angle of displacement, as depicted by pivot zone profile
170, and the more proximal to the toe region 126 the pivot zone 140
is oriented. These salient points are most clearly illustrated by
contrasting respective foot-strike 102', 102''', angular
displacement member 104', 104''' and balance-thrust members 106',
106''' in a distance-running embodiment ("running shoe"--FIG. 4A)
versus a short-sprint embodiment ("sprinting shoe"--FIG. 4C). As
clearly illustrated, the distance-running shoe presented in FIG. 4A
has a more extensive foot-strike member 102', with rear zone 114'
of foot-strike member 102' extending to completely encompass heel
section 120, and is substantially thicker to more effectively
absorb impact forces, whereas the embodiment designed for sprinting
illustrated in FIG. 4C, has a limited foot-strike member 102'''
with rear zone 114''' of foot-strike member 102''' extending from
the forward section of the arch region 122 into the forefoot region
124. Foot-strike member 102''' of the embodiment designed for
sprinting is oriented to accommodate a running style wherein
initial contact with the supporting surface is predominantly in the
forefoot area of the foot. Angular displacement member 104' of the
distance shoe has a lower pivot area profile 107' as compared to
the angular displacement member 104''' of the sprinting shoe's
pivot area profile 170'''. Additionally, angular displacement
member 104'' with apex 172 for the running shoe has a larger radius
in relation to angular displacement 104''' with member apex 176 for
the sprinting shoe. This allows the sprinting to maintain a higher
angle of displacement and faster rotation. Furthermore,
balance-thrust member 106' of running shoe encompasses a greater
surface area of toe section 126, and in some embodiments, front
zone 160' may extend beyond toe section of upper, whereas,
balance-thrust member 106''' of sprinting shoe encompasses
comparatively less surface area.
[0060] During a running cycle, as the initial foot-strike makes
contact with the supporting surface, there is a certain amount of
supination and the foot is slightly ahead of the center of mass,
which serves to minimize deceleration forces and to preserve linear
forward momentum. The talocalcaneal, or subtalar, joint plays a
major role in converting the rotary forces of the lower extremity
into forward motion. In operation, systems and methods of the
present invention build upon these natural movements by assisting
foot-strike to occur at a point under and behind the center of
gravity.
[0061] Following contact with the surface, the support phase is
initiated, wherein the runner's body mass is fully supported. As
the knee flexes to absorb impact forces and support the runner, the
ankle plantar flexes and the subtalar joint pronates, causing heel
pronation. Heel pronation permits absorption of compressive shock
forces, torque conversion, adjustment to uneven ground contours and
maintenance of balance. Eccentric tension in the posterior
tibialis, soleus and gastrocnemius muscles cause deceleration of
subtalar joint pronation and lower extremity internal rotation.
Pronation reaches its maximum during this time and resupination is
initiated to permit the foot to pass through its neutral position
at the midpoint of the support phase. When the runner's center of
mass is at its lowest position, a maximum vertical force is
actively generated and transmitted to the supporting surface by the
muscles and is often referred to as the active vertical force peak.
This active vertical force peak typically reaches 2 to 8 times body
weight, depending on the speed of the runner. It is during the
support phase that angular displacement member 104, and more
particularly, pivot region 140, engage supporting surface,
initiating displacement of the runner's center of gravity. Systems
and methods of the present invention serve to minimize the support
phase, thereby conserving biomechanical energy by limiting energy
lost to the supporting surface. Furthermore, embodiments of the
present invention reduce shock and trauma to the runner by
redirecting gravitational and inertial forces into linear
momentum.
[0062] The support phase continues until the heel begins to rise
into takeoff during the recovery phase. Generally speaking, the
recovery phase is the stage of running in which muscular tension
exerts vertical and horizontal forces to the support surface to
propel the runner forward. During this time the foot converts from
a shock-absorbing structure to a rigid lever for forward
propulsion, which is largely due to changes in position of the
subtalar and midtarsal joints, and in particular, supination of the
subtalar joint. As the knee joint extends, the lower extremity
rotates externally, the calcaneus inverts, the midtarsal joint
locks, and the foot becomes a rigid lever. The propulsive force is
a thrust backward and downward resulting from a combination of hip
extension, knee extension and ankle plantar flexion. During the
recovery phase, the rotational movement of the runner's foot
undergoes a second rotational movement as the runner rolls through
angular displacement and balance-thrust members 104, 106,
respectively, incurring greater angular acceleration and thereby
further displacing the runner's center of gravity forward and
translating gravitational, inertial, ground reaction, and muscular
tension forces into linear momentum.
[0063] These principles are more clearly presented in FIGS. 5A-D,
which illustrate the correlation of a foot cycle, herein defined as
being from initial foot-strike to angular displacement point, to
angle 2 of redirection of energy into maximum linear momentum. In
general, the angle 2 of displacement required for maximal
redirection of energy is directly related to the type and speed of
running and the faster the running speed, the greater the angle of
displacement becomes. For example, embodiments designed for
short-distance sprints, such as a 100 m race (FIG. 5A) have a
comparatively low foot cycle radius (r), whereas embodiments
designed for long-distance running (FIG. 5D) have a relatively
large foot cycle radius (r'''). Furthermore, foot cycle radius (r)
is inversely proportional to the angle 2 of redirection of energy.
In other words, embodiments designed for short-distance sprinting
(FIG. 5A) require a larger angular displacement profile 170.
[0064] Another preferred embodiment of the shoe sole version is
shown in FIG. 6 and is described as follows:
[0065] A displacement member 200 ("DM") is located on the bottom of
the shoe and extending downward from the lower surface of the
shoe.
[0066] Line 222 is a line drawn through the point 214 on the upper
interior surface of the plantar surface of the shoe located at a
point 6% of the length of the shoe from the front of the shoe and
the point 202 on the of the medial side of the shoe located on the
upper interior surface of the plantar surface at a point 31% of the
length of the shoe from the front of the shoe.
[0067] Line 224 is a line drawn through the point 214 on the upper
interior surface of the plantar surface of the shoe located at a
point 6% of the length of the shoe from the front of the shoe and
the point 204 on the of the lateral side of the shoe located on the
upper interior surface of the plantar surface at a point 33% of the
length of the shoe from the front of the shoe.
[0068] Line 226 is a line drawn through the point 202 on the upper
interior surface of the plantar surface of the shoe located on the
of the medial side of the shoe 31% of the length of the shoe from
the front of the shoe and the point 220 located on the upper
interior surface of the plantar surface of the shoe located at a
point 87% of the length of the shoe from the front of the shoe.
[0069] The lowest point on the DM on the perpendicular to line 226
is the displacement point 210 ("DP"). The DP is located along the
length of the shoe such that the DP is between one-quarter and one
half of the distance between the front of the toe section and the
back of the heel section of the shoe as measured along line 226.
Line 228 is a line drawn parallel to line 226 and passing through
the DP.
[0070] The preferred embodiment utilizes more than one displacement
member 200 ("DM") located on the bottom of the shoe and extending
downward from the lower surface of the shoe. When there are
multiple DMs, the lowest point on the DM on medial side of the
centerline measured perpendicular to line 226 is the medial
displacement point 210 ("Medial DP"). The lowest point on the DM on
lateral side of the centerline-measured perpendicular to line 226
is the lateral displacement point ("Lateral DP"). The Medial DP is
at the same level or lower than the Lateral DP. The DP is located
along the length of the shoe such that the DP is between
one-quarter and one half of the distance between the front of the
toe section and the back of the heel section of the shoe as
measured along line 226. The Medial DP is the same or less distance
from the front of the shoe than the Lateral DP.
[0071] A balance thrust member 212 ("BTM") extends downward from
the toe portion of the shoe and is located longitudinally forward
of the DP. The BTM has a balance thrust point 216 ("BTP") located
at the lowest part of the BTM as measured on a perpendicular to
line 222.
[0072] Line 218 is a line parallel to line 216 and running through
the Medial DP. Line 230 is a line drawn through the displacement
point 210 ("DP") and the balance thrust point 216 ("BTP").
[0073] Line 232 is a line drawn through the 216 BTP and the point
located at the intersection of the medial side of the shoe located
on the upper interior surface of the plantar surface and a line
drawn perpendicular to 226 and running through the DP. Line 234 is
a line drawn through point 214 and point 220.
[0074] A counter rotation member 218 ("CRM") extends downward from
the bottom of the shoe. The CRM has a counter rotation point
("CRP") which is the lowest point on the CRM as measured on a
perpendicular to line 226. The CRM is located along the length of
the shoe such that the CRP is behind the DP by at least 2% of the
length of the shoe measured along line 226. Line 228 is a line
drawn through the CRP. The CRP must be located between on or
between lines 228 and 222.
[0075] In order to obtain the advantages of the invention, that is,
enhancing forward momentum and reducing energy loss, certain angles
must maintain a certain relationship to each other. .alpha. is the
angle between lines 222 and 230, .beta. is the angle between lines
228 and 230, .theta. is the angle between lines 222 and 232,
.gamma. is the angle between lines 224 and 232, and .phi. is the
angle between lines 232 and 230. .alpha. must be between zero
degrees and 45 degrees, less than .beta., greater than .theta., and
less than .phi.. Also, .gamma. must be less than .theta..
[0076] Another preferred embodiment of the shoe sole version is
shown in FIG. 7 and is described as follows:
[0077] The version shown in FIG. 7 is the same as that shown in
FIG. 6, except that it includes a rigid portion 206 (also referred
to in the claims as the "rigidifying element") running from at
least as far back as the point on the of the lateral side of the
shoe located on the upper interior surface of the plantar surface
at a point above the DP as measured along a line perpendicular to
line 226, and continuing to the front of the toe section and being
continuously radiused upward going toward the front of the toe
section 214. The rigid portion 206 is made of material sufficiently
rigid to prevent deformation of such portion 202 during use.
[0078] When the rigid portion 206 is included, thereby maintaining
the upward curved shape of the front portion of the shoe, then a
BTM is not required, but rather is optional. If a BTM is used, then
definitions of the lines, angles, and distances, and their relation
to each other, are the same as in the embodiment shown in FIG.
6.
[0079] If a BTM is not used (the way shown in FIG. 7), then the BTP
216 is located on the rigid surface and line 230 is defined as a
line drawn through point 210 located at the lowest point on the DM
on the perpendicular to line 226 and the point 208 on the bottom
surface of plantar surface of the shoe located 6% of the length of
the shoe from the front of the shoe measured along line 226.
Otherwise, all definitions of the lines, angles, and distances, and
their relation to each other, are the same as in the embodiment
shown in FIG. 6.
[0080] A preferred embodiment of the shoe insert version not having
a rigid forward section is shown in FIG. 8 and is described as
follows:
[0081] The version shown in FIG. 8 has generally the same DM, CRM,
and BTM as that shown in FIG. 6, except that in FIG. 8, they extend
downward from a thin insert designed to be placed inside a shoe,
instead of extending downward from the outer sole of the shoe.
Otherwise, the definitions of the lines, angles, and distances, and
their relation to each other, are the same as in the embodiment
shown in FIG. 6. Because of the need to fit inside the shoe, the
range of thickness for the DM, CRM, and BTM is less for the insert
shown in FIG. 8 than in the shoe sole shown in FIG. 6.
[0082] A preferred embodiment of the shoe insert version having a
rigid forward section is shown in FIG. 9 and is described as
follows:
[0083] The version shown in FIG. 9 has generally the same DM, CRM,
and rigid forward section as those shown in FIG. 7, except that in
FIG. 9, the DM and CRM extend downward from a thin insert designed
to be placed inside a shoe, instead of extending downward from the
outer sole of the shoe. Likewise, the rigid forward section is a
part of the forward portion of the insert in FIG. 9, whereas in
FIG. 7 the rigid section is part of the forward section of the shoe
sole. Otherwise, the definitions of the lines, angles, and
distances, and their relation to each other, are the same as in the
embodiment shown in FIG. 7. Because of the need to fit inside the
shoe, the range of thickness for the DM, CRM, and BTM is less for
the insert shown in FIG. 9 than in the shoe sole shown in FIG.
7.
[0084] In the version shown in FIG. 9, the use of a BTM is
optional. If a BTM is not used (the way shown in FIG. 9), then the
BTP 216 is located on the rigid surface and line 230 is defined as
a line drawn through point 210 located at the lowest point on the
DM on the perpendicular to line 226 and the point 208 on the bottom
surface of plantar surface of the shoe located 6% of the length of
the shoe from the front of the shoe measured along line 226.
Otherwise, all definitions of the lines, angles, and distances, and
their relation to each other, are the same as in the embodiment
shown in FIG. 6.
[0085] In each of the embodiments shown in FIGS. 6-9, there may be
more than one DM on each shoe sole or shoe insert, there may be
more than one CRM on each shoe sole or shoe insert, and there may
be more than one BTM on each shoe sole or shoe insert.
Alternatively, each DM, CRM, and/or BTM may be split into two or
more portions. In fact, in one preferred embodiment, each shoe sole
or shoe insert has two DMs, one on the medial side and one on the
lateral side, and each with a DP. In this version, the medial side
DP is closer to the front of the shoe than the lateral side DP. The
CRM is then placed in the middle of the shoe. For purposes of
reducing weight, the DMs and CRM are fairly narrow and do not span
the width of the shoe sole or shoe insert.
[0086] As another example, the DM(s) may have a number of DPs
running from the medial side to the lateral side of the shoe sole
or shoe insert, preferably in a continuous curve, and moving
generally toward the front of the shoe sole or shoe insert as they
move from the lateral side to the medial side of the shoe.
[0087] As another example, the DMs, CRMs, and/or BTMs can each be
made of a plurality of rib elements. The DM can be made of a
plurality of rib elements oriented along the sesamoidal line to
facilitate fore-aft pivoting of the foot of a wearer about the
sesamoidal line.
[0088] While the sole units and inserts of the foregoing
embodiments may be shown isolated from an entire shoe or sole, from
the following details, persons skilled in the art will be capable
of integrating the disclosed sole unit into a complete shoe or sole
using known techniques.
[0089] While in the foregoing specification this invention has been
described in relation to certain preferred embodiments thereof, and
many details have been set forth for purpose of illustration, it
will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the invention is
susceptible to various changes and modification as well as
additional embodiments and that certain of the details described
herein may be varied considerably without departing from the basic
spirit and scope of the invention.
* * * * *