U.S. patent application number 12/903322 was filed with the patent office on 2011-10-20 for cleat spike insole.
Invention is credited to James Edward JENNINGS.
Application Number | 20110252664 12/903322 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 44787007 |
Filed Date | 2011-10-20 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110252664 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
JENNINGS; James Edward |
October 20, 2011 |
Cleat Spike Insole
Abstract
A shoe foundation assembly for receiving and retaining a number
of cleats or spikes into the bottom sole of the shoe such as might
be utilized in various sporting events. The shoe foundation
assembly includes a unitarily molded shoe cradle component with a
toe guard at a first end, a heel guard at a second end, and arch
medial. An outsole is bonded to the midsole component sized and
shaped to be positioned on the underside base of the shoe cradle
component. The detachable cradle incorporates hillock apertures for
positioning a number of sealable inserts to receive the
cleat/spikes. Bonded to the midsole is an outsole component having
a plurality of slit apertures also positioned to receive the
plurality of cleat/spikes. A number of different types of cleats or
shoe spikes may be inserted into the apertures in the outsole and
through the sealable inserts within the midsole. Each of the
cleat/spikes incorporates a structure for the retention of the
cleat/spike onto the shoe foundation.
Inventors: |
JENNINGS; James Edward;
(Louisville, CO) |
Family ID: |
44787007 |
Appl. No.: |
12/903322 |
Filed: |
October 13, 2010 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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11526372 |
Sep 25, 2006 |
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12903322 |
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10900217 |
Jul 27, 2004 |
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11526372 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
36/28 ;
36/59C |
Current CPC
Class: |
A43B 5/02 20130101; A43C
15/161 20130101; A43B 17/02 20130101; A43B 13/30 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
36/28 ;
36/59.C |
International
Class: |
A43B 13/18 20060101
A43B013/18; A43C 15/00 20060101 A43C015/00 |
Claims
1. A shoe insole assembly for the optional receipt and retention of
a plurality of cleat/spike structures such as those used in
sporting events, the shoe foundation assembly comprising: (a) a
unitarily molded detachable shoe cradle component comprising a
longitudinal platform, a toe guard extending from a first end of
the longitudinal support platform, and a heel guard extending from
a second end of the longitudinal support platform; (b) a hillock
component sized and shaped to be positioned on an underside base of
the longitudinal support platform of the shoe cradle component, the
cradle having a plurality of hillock apertures positioned to
receive the plurality of cleat/spike structures; and (c) a
unitarily molded insert shoe cradle component comprising a
longitudinal platform, a toe guard extending from a first end of
the longitudinal support platform, and a heel guard extending from
a second end of the longitudinal support platform.
2. A cleat spike insole shoe for terrain engagement and traction by
a plurality of cleat/spike structures such as those used in
sporting events, the shoe foundation assembly comprising: (a) a
unitarily molded shoe cradle component comprising a longitudinal
support platform, a toe guard extending from a first end of the
longitudinal support platform, and a heel guard extending from a
second end of the longitudinal support platform; (b) a midsole
component sized and shaped to be positioned on an underside base of
the longitudinal platform of the shoe cradle component; and (c) an
outsole component sized and shaped to be positioned on an underside
base of the midsole component, the outsole component having a
plurality of positioned cleat/spike structures.
3. A metatarsal sole sized and shaped to be positioned on an
underside base of the longitudinal platform of a shoe cradle
component, the midsole having a plurality of sealable slit aperture
pads positioned to receive the plurality of cleat/spike structures;
(a) a plurality of bonded sealing insert metatarsal pads positioned
one vertical atop each within each of the plurality of sealable
slit apertures in the midsole component comprising a no leak
cylinder; (b) an outsole component sized and shaped to be
positioned on an underside base of the midsole component, the
outsole having a plurality of apertures positioned to receive the
plurality of X-shape post cleat/spike structures; and (c) a
plurality of x-shape post cleat/spike structures insertable into
the plurality of apertures in the outsole and through the plurality
of sealable insert pads positioned within the plurality of midsole
apertures, each of the plurality of cleat/spike structures having
means for retention of the same within the bonded x-slit sealing
insert pads and midsole apertures.
4. A shoe foundation assembly for the optional receipt and
retention of a plurality of cleat/spike structures such as those
used in sporting events, the shoe foundation assembly comprising:
(a) a unitarily molded detachable shoe cradle component comprising
a longitudinal platform, a toe guard extending from a first end of
the longitudinal support platform, and a heel guard extending from
a second end of the longitudinal support platform; (b) a midsole
component sized and shaped to be positioned on an underside base of
the longitudinal platform of the shoe cradle component, the midsole
having a plurality of sealable apertures positioned to receive the
plurality of cleat/spike structures; (c) a plurality of sealing
inserts positioned one each within each of the plurality of
sealable apertures in the midsole component; (d) an outsole
component sized and shaped to be positioned on an underside base of
the midsole component, the outsole having a plurality of apertures
positioned to receive the plurality of x-shape post cleat/spike
structures; and (e) a plurality of x-shape post cleat/spike
structures insertable into the plurality of apertures in the
outsole and through the plurality of sealable inserts positioned
within the plurality of midsole apertures, each of the plurality of
cleat/spike structures having means for retention of the same
within the x-shaped post sealing inserts and midsole apertures.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This is a Continuation-in-Part of application Ser. No.
11/526,372, filed Sep. 25, 2006, which is a Continuation of
application Ser. No. 10/900,217, filed Jul. 27, 2004, now
abandoned.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The specialization of sports shoes, i.e. football, soccer,
baseball, and basketball, has drawn the invention of a multiple or
two way sport shoe. This specialization has resulted in the
relocation of hardened plastic materials into the interior as
cradle insole support and as a means for cleat/spike attachment.
The present invention retains a comfortable soft sole versus a
conventional hard outsole plate.
[0004] 2. Background of the Invention
[0005] The modern cleated athletic shoe is a combination of many
elements which have specific functions, all of which work together
for support and protection during an athletic event. The design of
athletic shoes has become a science, but there has been little
advancement for cleated footwear. The outsole plate and cleats
provides traction, protection and a durable wear surface. Outsole
plates severally limit running performance. In particular, outsole
plates can cause discomfort, fatigue, and injury. Outsole plates
inhibit the musculo-skeletal motion with respect to the flexibility
movement of the phalanges bones and the metatarsal bones of a
wearer's foot.
[0006] The design of the present invention, however takes into
account the demands and requirements of the sport as they relate to
the performance and safety of athletes. In meeting these demands,
the present invention and innovation is directed to creating an
"insole cradle connected" cleat/spike shoe. The cleat/spike insole
shoe prevents instability leading to fatigue, injury and
inefficiency of foot work action. It is desirable to eliminate
interference with the bio mechanical running sequence and to
enhance performance by providing a shoe that can be used for
running and traction.
[0007] Broadly, an article of footwear includes an upper and an
insole. The insole includes a plurality of downward extending
ground engaging members providing traction. The cradle insole lies
next to the foot under a sockliner. The insole is the foundation of
the shoe, including an arch support device that cradles the foot
and lifts the arch. While the peripheral portions cradle the sides
of the foot to reduce pronation and supination.
[0008] The midsole lies between the insole and the outsole. The
primary function of the midsole is to provide cushioning to the
wearer's heel and forefoot. The outsole is commonly molded from
abrasive resistant rubber material and comes in contact with the
ground.
[0009] The cleat/spike insole shoe as an article of footwear is
herein referred to as a CSI shoe. The features and aspects of the
invention apply to the structures and forces associated with the
various areas of the shoe. The specific enhancement at the insole
area provides flexibility and support. The sock lined insole
plastic cradle provides stability that increases energy efficiency
during activity.
[0010] A first advantage of the CSI shoe over those described in
prior art footwear styles is the flexibility. The sock lined
plastic insole cradle is flexible, lightweight and easier to
assemble than conventional midsole attached outsole plates. The
sole of a typical athletic shoe accounts for at least 50-60% of the
total shoe weight. The CSI shoe of the present invention
midsole/outsole components can be molded from a combined material.
A third advantage is that assembly is reduced to two primary
structures. The upper attached sole and cradle insole as one unit
combined of arch support, cushioning, heel cup and toe protection.
Therefore, reducing costs by eliminating the need for a separate
outsole mold, material and assembly line efficiency.
[0011] Finally, bridging with arch support also reduces
considerable weight in scaling down of cushioning midsole and
outsole material from the mid foot area.
[0012] In view of the foregoing, there is a need for an article of
footwear that overcomes deficiencies. The cleat/spike insole shoe
of the present invention, is not however, limited and intended only
for sports, indoor or outdoor.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0013] The upper of the shoe associated with the structures of the
present invention is secured to the sole in conventional manner and
forms an interior space for securely and comfortably inserting a
foot by a wearer. The upper may be from multiple elements including
mesh, Gore-Tex.RTM., synthetic leather and leather. Constructing
materials thereof stitched and adhesively bonded together to form a
footwear structure.
[0014] The CSI unit fills the inner space adjacent to the topside
surface of the sole. The insole cradle unit includes a sock lined
plastic layer encompassing a heel cup, arch support and toe
protector having cleats/spikes attached, affixed or receptacle
means for said cleats/spikes. The sock liner comprises a
compressibly resilient foam layer having top and bottom surfaces
sized and shaped for insertion into the footwear and for supporting
the foot. The sole (mid/out) attenuates reaction forces and absorbs
energy as the footwear contacts the surface. The midsole forms the
middle layer of the cushion sole and may be composed of resilient
foam material, such as polyurethane, or similar or combination of
materials. The cleats/spikes are provided at the bottom of the sole
for ground engaged traction. The CSI shoe structure reduces
manufacturing cost and simplifies manufacturing processes.
[0015] The sock liner is a very soft foam insert that adds plenty
of comfort and relieves cleat/spike pressure with light cushioning
and shock absorption of the shoe. The foam lower layer has
compressibility sufficient to permit the layer to resiliently
compress under the foot in response to pressure applied by the foot
during periods of a gait cycle when the footwear impacts the ground
thereby absorbing shock and cushioning the foot during impact. The
sock liner may further comprise an open cell layer. The bottom
surface of the upper layer is permanently bonded to the top surface
of the lower layer for spacing the lower layer from the foot to
reduce heat transfer from the lower layer to the foot and insulate.
The sock liner may include a closed cell lower layer and a porous
upper level permitting air to pass through to cool and dry the
foot. The sock lined bonded plastic unit may be removable and
replaceable. The CSI shoe improves stability, propulsion,
sides-to-sides and gains maximum foot control. The cleat/spike
insole has direct contact creating a natural synergy with the
athlete's foot.
[0016] The plastic cradle insole of the present invention provides
support and is used for cleats/spikes attachment. The plastic
insole cradle can be formed by injection molding a resin into a
desired shape, including a receptacle. The receptacle is sized and
dimensioned to receive a threaded or locking system head of the
shank (cleat component). The resin can be enhanced having a fibrous
composition of nylon or glass. Arch support is placed beneath the
medial region, and considerable weight may be saved, as
conventional mid/out sole materials may be reduced or eliminated.
The resistance to flex is important in the arch support region
during the gait cycle. In addition, the anterior of the support
requires an increase of flexibility for toeing off.
[0017] Cleated athletic shoes typically include a sole having an
upper extending upwardly from the sole and into which the foot of
the athlete is positioned and secured in place. A conventional
cleated athletic shoe usually includes a pattern of cleats in the
rearfoot portion and in the forefoot portion of the outsole. CSI
spikes/cleats attach to the plastic insole with a screw, threaded
shank head, shank lock system and/or have a receptacle disposed on
the exterior surface in the molding process. An engagement
receptacle would have threads on the interior surface wall. Shoes
with studs are designed for efficient, reliable attachment and
disengagement. This allows the player to use the optimal stud for
different field conditions.
[0018] The sole of a typical athletic shoe accounts for 70% of the
total shoe weight. Thus, to significantly reduce the total weight
of a shoe, steps must be taken to reduce the weight of the sole. To
achieve a sole which is lightweight, the components thereof must be
structured from a elimination concept to materials which are
functionally efficient. The unisole structure of the present
invention is lightweight, provides flexibility, rigidness and is
easier to assemble than conventional midsole and outsoles. The
unisole is attached to the upper by lasting and/or adhesives. In
addition, the unisole reduces molding costs due to the fact that
the midsole/outsole, or sole can be formed with one mold from a
combined midsole/outsole material which eliminates the need for a
separate outsole mold. By using one mold as compared to two molds,
simultaneously reduces the thickness, cost and weight. As mentioned
above, the unisole uses a combined midsole/outsole material to
reduce the weight and increase the stability of the shoe. The
stability is vital due to cleat pressure. The unisole and
alternative components are molded from a compound comprising
cushioning foam (for example, polyurethane or ethyl vinyl acetate)
and an abrasion resistant rubber. The EVA foam and compounds are
available from Eclipse Polymers Co. Ltd. EVA or polyurethane are
both capable of producing a suitable sole, however the primary
requirements of the present invention are durability and stiffness
value. The unisole is made by injection or form molding. The bottom
surface may be molded with a plurality of tread elements to
increase the traction. A tread element texturing may take the form
of v-shaped flex groves, waffles, or other dimensional
projections.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING FIGURES
[0019] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of the assembly of
components of the present invention, in combination with a typical
shoe upper, to form a complete shoe.
[0020] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the assembly of
components of the present invention, without the shoe upper and
incorporating the sealing inserts into the midsole.
[0021] FIG. 3 is a bottom plan view (a view of the bottom of the
midsole for a right foot shoe) of the partially assembled shoe
foundation of the present invention.
[0022] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of one of a first embodiment of
the sealing insert components of the present invention.
[0023] FIG. 5 is a bottom plan view (a view of the bottom of the
outsole for a right foot shoe) of the fully assembled shoe
foundation of the present invention.
[0024] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the fully assembled shoe
foundation of the present invention, ready for the placement and
attachment of a shoe upper.
[0025] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a
cleat/spike for use in conjunction with the shoe foundation of the
present invention.
[0026] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a
cleat/spike for use in conjunction with the shoe foundation of the
present invention.
[0027] FIGS. 9-11 are each partial cross-sectional views of the
assembled shoe foundation of the present invention, showing the use
of the various preferred embodiments of the cleat/spike
construction and of the sealing insert construction.
[0028] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a further alternate
embodiment of the fully assembled shoe foundation of the present
invention, wherein the integral molded construction actually
provides for the upper components of the show and eliminates the
need to provide for the separate attachment of a shoe upper.
[0029] FIG. 13 is an exploded perspective view of the assembly of
components of the unisole invention, without the shoe upper and
without the use of cleat/spikes as may be desired with some sport
or non-sport uses of the shoe foundation.
[0030] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a further embodiment of a
cleat/spike for use in conjunction with the shoe foundation of the
unisole invention.
[0031] FIG. 15 is a partial cross-sectional view of a further
alternate embodiment of the assembled shoe foundation of the
present invention, showing the use of the embodiment of the
cleat/spike construction shown in FIG. 14.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0032] Reference is made first to FIG. 1 for an overall description
of an exploded assembly view of the components that make up the
improved cleat/spike insole shoe foundation of the present
invention. FIG. 1 represents what may be a typical shoe
construction including all of the components for a completed shoe.
The assembly 10 of shoe components is shown with the components in
their general orientation prior to or in the process of assembly.
The present invention generally comprises the shoe foundation 12
components which include all components except for the shoe upper
14 which is shown in dashed outline form in FIG. 1. The balance of
the components are shown with alignment lines generally positioned
to indicate the point of attachment for cleat/spikes 24a-24n, two
of which are shown in FIG. 1 as representative of the total number
that might be provided on the shoe.
[0033] The first primary component of the present invention is
detachable insert cradle 16 which is a molded plastic component
that includes heel guard 26 and toe guard 28 positioned as shown.
Positioned or placed on top and within insert cradle 16 may be sock
liner 30 that provides a soft cushion for the interior of the shoe.
Positioned across the base of cradle 16 are a number of hillock
receptacles 32 whose function is described in more detail below,
but which line up with each of the alignment components associated
with cleat/spikes 24a-24n.
[0034] Detachable insert cradle 16 is positioned on top of midsole
18 and through the midsole to cleats/spikes 24a-24n. Midsole 18
comprises a configured soft sole component with sufficient rigidity
to add support and flexibility. Midsole 18 incorporates a number of
midsole apertures 34 which again are aligned to receive
cleats/spikes 24a-24n. Midsole apertures 34 are shaped and sized to
receive and retain sealing inserts 20 shown positioned below
midsole 18 in FIG. 1. Sealing inserts 20 are designed to seal the
shoe while still allowing for the insertion and removal of
cleats/spikes 24a-24n. The structure and function of sealing
inserts 20 is described in more detail below.
[0035] Midsole 18 is positioned on top of outsole 22 with sealing
inserts 20 incorporated into midsole apertures 34. Like midsole 18,
outsole 22 provides a harder yet resilient material that serves as
the exterior base sole material for the shoe 10. Like midsole 18,
outsole 22 incorporates a number of outsole apertures 36. Outsole
apertures 36 are sized smaller than midsole apertures 34 so as to
facilitate the retention of sealing inserts 20 within midsole 18.
Outsole apertures 36 are just large enough to receive the posts
associated with each of the cleat/spikes 24a-24n.
[0036] Reference is now made to FIG. 2 for a further description of
a partially exploded view of the shoe foundation 12 of the present
invention. In this view of FIG. 2, sealing inserts 20a-20n have
been positioned within midsole 18 as described above. The shoe
upper has been removed in this view for clarity and to distinguish
it as not being part of the present invention. Once in position
within midsole 18 sealing inserts 20a-20n are adhered permanently
to midsole 18 to prevent their movement or removal from the
partially assembled shoe foundation 12. Once again, the components
are aligned so as to facilitate the insertion of the posts
associated with cleat/spikes 24a-24n through outsole apertures 36,
through sealing inserts 20a-20n and into contact with hillock
receptacles 32 positioned on the base of unisole cradle 16.
[0037] FIG. 3 provides a bottom plan view of the right foot
configuration of the shoe foundation of the present invention
looking up on the bottom of the midsole 18 as assembled with
sealing inserts 20 as described above. Midsole 18 in this view is
shown positioned on the bottom of unisole cradle 16 whose outer
edge is just viewed around the perimeter of midsole 18. As
indicated, an example of a sealing insert 20b positioned in midsole
aperture 34b is shown. A molded in step portion 38 is shown on the
base of midsole 18.
[0038] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of one example of a
configuration of metatarsal pad sealing insert 20 suitable for
placement and positioning within midsole 18. Sealing insert 20n as
a representative example incorporates a cylindrical structure made
of a resilient but rugged material capable of being inserted and
adhered to the material of midsole 18. Cross slits 40n are
positioned through the cylindrical structure of sealing insert 20n
so as to allow for the passage of the post of a cleat/spike 24n
(not shown) while at the same time generally sealing the aperture.
Perimeter channel 42n facilitates both the insertion and the
retention of sealing insert 20n within the material of midsole 18
through midsole aperture 34, as shown in FIG. 3.
[0039] Reference is now made to FIG. 5 which is again a view of the
bottom of a right foot configuration of the present invention, this
time incorporating the outsole component and a plurality of
cleats/spikes 24. Outsole 22 is shown positioned on the bottom of
midsole 18 which again has been retained on the bottom of
replaceable insert cradle 16. In this view, it can be seen how a
plurality of cleats/spikes 24 (of a variety of different types) may
be positioned and oriented on the bottom of the shoe. The manner in
which these cleats/spikes 24 are positioned and fixed is described
in more detail below.
[0040] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the assembled components as
shown in the partially exploded assembly view of FIG. 2. Shoe
foundation 12 in this case is shown in its fully assembled
condition. Cleats/spikes 24a-24n are shown positioned on the base
of shoe foundation 12 while detachable cradle 16 is shown
positioned on the top and incorporates heel guard 26, sock liner
30, and toe guard 28, again as described above. The assembled shoe
foundation 12 as shown in FIG. 6 is now ready to receive a shoe
upper of a variety of configurations depending upon the particular
sport for which the shoe is intended.
[0041] Reference is now made to FIGS. 7-11 for a detailed
description of a variety of cleat/spike configurations and a
variety of sealing insert configurations. Each of these
configuration combinations are appropriate mechanisms for receiving
and retaining a cleat/spike component into the shoe foundation of
the present invention. FIG. 7 represents first preferred embodiment
of a cleat/spike 25n which includes spike 45 with retention post 47
terminating in a threaded section 49. In addition to threaded
section 49, cleat/spike 25n incorporates a slot key 51 that is
utilized to facilitate both the placement of the cleat/spike within
the shoe foundation and the orientation of the cleat/spike 25n once
in position.
[0042] FIG. 8 provides a somewhat simpler cleat/spike configuration
of the type shown in the previous drawings of the exploded assembly
views. Cleat/spike 24n shown in FIG. 8 incorporates spike 44 and
retention post 46, which is simply a cylindrical post having an
X-shaped cross section. This structure facilitates the sealing of
the spike through the X-shaped slits in the sealing inserts and
eliminates some of the weight of the spike without diminishing its
strength or rigidity.
[0043] FIGS. 9-11 provide partial cross-sectional views showing the
various cleat/spike configuration combinations and the manner in
which they are inserted into the sealing inserts and thereby
through the outsole and into the midsole components of the present
invention. FIG. 9 shows a first configuration wherein shoe
foundation 12 incorporates midsole 18 and outsole 22 with sealing
insert 20 positioned generally within midsole 18 and held in place
by the adhesion of outsole 22 to midsole 18. Rather than engaging a
hillock receptacle 32 as shown in FIG. 1 above, positioned in
unisole cradle 16, the configuration in FIG. 9 provides a recess in
insert cradle 16 into which the X-shaped cross section retention
post 46 is received.
[0044] FIG. 10 demonstrates the utilization of the cleat/spike
configuration shown in FIG. 7 wherein hillock receptacle 32 extends
from detachable insert cradle 16 to receive the threaded portion 49
of cleat/spike post 47. In this configuration, slot key 51 is
positioned so as to maintain the orientation of cleat/spike 25n
within the shoe foundation 12 through the sealing insert 20n as
shown.
[0045] FIG. 11 provides a hybrid of sorts between the design shown
in FIGS. 9 and 10 wherein a simple threading of the cleat/spike
into the threaded hillock receptacle 32 is accomplished through
sealing insert 20n in a manner that may be more appropriate where
orientation of the cleat/spike on the bottom face of the sole of
the shoe is less important. Even with the configuration shown in
FIG. 11, however, orientation may be retained by simply
establishing a fully threaded cleat/spike 23n into the detachable
insert cradle 16, resulting in the proper orientation.
[0046] Reference is now made to FIG. 12 for a description of an
alternate embodiment of integrated cradle 17. In this view, the
molded configuration of integrated cradle 17 extends beyond simply
that of heel guard 26 and toe guard 28 and extends up over and
around the shoe enclosure by way of plate component 60, which may
be open at the top in overlapping fashion that may in a preferred
embodiment be sealed with a Velcro.RTM. closure. In this
configuration, no shoe upper may be necessary for utilization of
the shoe, thereby creating a less expensive but still highly
protective and versatile cleat/spike shoe.
[0047] Reference is finally made to FIGS. 13-15 for further
alternate embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 13 discloses
the unisole shoe foundation of the present invention absent the use
of the outsole and any of the cleats/spikes. It is anticipated that
a very simple shoe foundation may be utilized without the
cleats/spikes and without the outsole as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2
whereby the same shoe may be worn off of the sports field or in
conditions other than the sporting event to which the cleats/spikes
might have been directed. FIG. 13 simply provides an example of how
the same structural configuration for the unisole shoe foundation
of the present invention may be modified slightly to make the
resulting shoe more versatile in use.
[0048] FIGS. 14 and 15 disclose an alternate embodiment for the
cleat/spike structure 24n wherein notches 58 are cut into the sides
of at least two of the X-shaped cross-sectional portions of
retention post 56 extending above the spike 54. In this
configuration, cleat/spike 24n may be utilized as shown in FIG. 15
to snap into place in an appropriately configured snap receptacle
60 positioned within the structure of unisole cradle 16. The view
of FIG. 15, for example, may be appropriate for use with the shoe
foundation structure shown in FIG. 13, wherein the outsole is not
utilized and the midsole 18 becomes the outsole for the shoe. In
this configuration, a separate aperture may be configured having a
sealing insert as shown in FIG. 13 or may simply be the molded
configuration of midsole 18. In either case, snap receptacle 60 is
positioned with prong catches to engage notches 58 positioned in
cleat/spike retention post 56. The configuration shown in FIG. 15
therefore lends itself to both cleats/spikes that require a
specific orientation and those that do not.
[0049] Although the present invention has been described in terms
of the foregoing preferred embodiments, this description has been
provided by way of explanation only, and is not intended to be
construed as a limitation of the invention. Those skilled in the
art will recognize modifications of the present invention that
might accommodate specific types of shoes or specific types of
cleat/spikes, as well as variations in the size of the shoe and the
materials from which it is constructed. Such modifications, as to
configuration and material composition, where such modifications
are coincidental to the type and size of the shoe being
constructed, do not necessarily depart from the spirit and scope of
the invention.
* * * * *