U.S. patent application number 13/111704 was filed with the patent office on 2011-12-22 for foot support article.
This patent application is currently assigned to UNDER ARMOUR, INC.. Invention is credited to Jason Berns, Derek Campbell, Kevin Fisher, Alan Guyan, Michael White.
Application Number | 20110308108 13/111704 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 45327394 |
Filed Date | 2011-12-22 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110308108 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Berns; Jason ; et
al. |
December 22, 2011 |
FOOT SUPPORT ARTICLE
Abstract
An article of footwear includes an outer shell, an inner layer
positioned inside of the outer shell, and at least one tensioning
member engaging the inner layer. The inner layer configured to
surround and conform to at least a portion of a human foot. The at
least one tensioning member includes a portion that extends to the
outside of the outer shell, wherein the portion that extends to the
position that is outside of the outer shell is configured to enable
tightening and loosening of the at least one tensioning member.
Inventors: |
Berns; Jason; (Baltimore,
MD) ; Fisher; Kevin; (Baltimore, MD) ;
Campbell; Derek; (Columbia, MD) ; Guyan; Alan;
(Baltimore, MD) ; White; Michael; (Cockeysville,
MD) |
Assignee: |
UNDER ARMOUR, INC.
Baltimore
MD
|
Family ID: |
45327394 |
Appl. No.: |
13/111704 |
Filed: |
May 19, 2011 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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61357075 |
Jun 21, 2010 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
36/50.1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A43B 5/02 20130101; A43B
7/20 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
36/50.1 |
International
Class: |
A43C 11/00 20060101
A43C011/00 |
Claims
1. An article of footwear comprising: an outer shell; an inner
layer positioned inside of the outer shell, the inner layer
configured to surround and conform to at least a portion of a human
foot; and at least one tensioning member engaging the inner layer,
the at least one tensioning member including a portion that extends
to a position that is outside of the outer shell, wherein the
portion that extends to the position that is outside of the outer
shell is configured to enable tightening and loosening of the at
least one tensioning member.
2. The article of footwear of claim 1 wherein the portion that
extends to the position that is outside of the outer shell is
configured to be adjusted between a first position and a second
position, wherein an effective length of the tensioning member
inside the outer shell is greater in the first position than in the
second position.
3. The article of footwear of claim 1 further comprising: a
stabilizing member positioned between the inner layer and outer
shell, wherein the stabilizing member is configured to provide
support to a portion of the human foot.
4. The article of footwear of claim 3, wherein the stabilizing
member engages the at least one tensioning member, the at least one
tensioning member configured to adjust the stabilizing member with
respect to the human foot in response to tightening and loosening
of the at least one tensioning member.
5. The article of footwear of claim 4, wherein the stabilizing
member is comprised of a semi-rigid material, and the at least one
tensioning member is comprised of a flexible member.
6. The article of footwear of claim 4 wherein the stabilizing
member extends from an ankle portion to a heel portion of the
article of footwear.
7. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the at least one
tensioning member has a first end and a second end, wherein the
first end is attached to a portion of the inner layer conforming to
a medial side of the human foot, and wherein the second end extends
to the position that is outside of the outer shell on a lateral
side of the human foot.
8. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the at least one
tensioning member has a first end and a second end, wherein the
first end is attached to a portion of the inner layer conforming to
a lateral side of the human foot, and wherein the second end
extends to the position that is outside of the outer shell on a
medial side of the human foot.
9. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the at least one
tensioning member has a first end attached to a portion of the
inner layer conforming to a medial side of the human foot, wherein
the at least one tensioning member extends underneath the human
foot and upwards toward an ankle on the lateral side of the human
foot.
10. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the at least one
tensioning member has a first end attached to a portion of the
inner layer conforming to a lateral side of the human foot, wherein
the at least one tensioning member extends underneath the human
foot and upwards toward an ankle on the medial side of the human
foot.
11. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the tensioning
member extends through an opening in the outer shell.
12. An article of footwear comprising: a sole; an upper connected
to the sole, the upper and the sole defining a foot cavity; a
tensioning member positioned within the foot cavity, the tensioning
member configured to apply a compressive force to a foot positioned
within the foot cavity; and a tension adjustment member positioned
outside of the foot cavity, the tension adjustment member
configured to adjust the compressive force applied to the foot
positioned within the foot cavity.
13. The article of footwear of claim 12 further comprising a heel
stabilizer positioned within the foot cavity, wherein the tension
adjustment member is configured to draw the heel stabilizer closer
to the foot within the foot cavity.
14. The article of footwear of claim 12 further comprising a sock
positioned in the foot cavity, wherein the tensioning member
engages the sock within the foot cavity.
15. The article of footwear of claim 12 wherein the tensioning
member is a strap and the tension adjustment member is a portion of
the strap that extends beyond a fastening location on the
upper.
16. A method of providing compression to a foot, the method
comprising: inserting the foot into a shoe having an outer shell;
touching a portion of a tension adjustment member positioned
outside of the outer shell, the tension adjustment member coupled
to a tensioning member positioned at least partially within the
shoe; moving the tension adjustment member in order to bring the
tensioning member into closer engagement with the foot and provide
compression to the foot.
17. The method of claim 16 wherein inserting the foot into the shoe
includes inserting the foot into a flexible boot positioned within
the outer shell.
18. The method of claim 17 wherein the tensioning member engages
the flexible boot, and wherein moving the tension adjustment member
changes the effective length of the tensioning member within the
outer shell.
19. The method of claim 18 wherein the tensioning member is a band
and the adjustment member is an end portion of the band.
20. The method of claim 19 wherein a stabilizing member is
positioned inside of the shoe and moving the tensioning member
draws the stabilizing member into closer engagement with a heel
portion of the foot.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] The present application claims priority from U.S.
Provisional Application No. 61/357,075 filed on Jun. 21, 2010, the
contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their
entirety.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to articles of
footwear, and, more particularly, to articles of footwear having
foot support members.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Ankle stability is a key and critical need from athletes and
users who deal with lateral motion. There exists a need to provide
a simple and lightweight cleat or shoe for athletes in order to
offer better support for the foot and ankle region of a user
wearing the cleat. Athletes and users take a tremendous amount of
time and effort to tape and spat their feet, as well as add
additional ankle and foot support braces. The ankle support systems
add weight to a footwear system in which lightness is highly
desired.
[0004] Injuries to the ankle are estimated to account for 15-20% of
all musculoskeletal injuries, with approximately 85% being ankle
sprains. The most common mechanism of injury is excessive
Inversion, coupled with Plantar Flexion--approximately 75-80%
involve the lateral ligament complex, primarily the Anterior
Talofibular Ligament.
[0005] Typically, ankle sprains occur in 40-100 ms. Compared to
average muscle latencies: reported latency of 69-85 ms, with
approximately 90-110 ms to reach half max force, and an average of
250 ms to reach peak torque generation, the body is not able to
adequately respond to an unexpected inversion. In comparison,
during running, the stance phase lasts 200-250 ms, and the calf
muscles are activated approximately 150 ms prior to heel impact,
allowing the ankle adequate time to stabilize.
[0006] Players with a history of ankle sprains are 2-3 times more
likely to have a recurrent injury than players without history of
ankle injuries. Use of bracing or taping, as well as proprioceptive
training have been shown to reduce the level of recurrence to the
levels of players without history of injury.
[0007] In general, both bracing (lace-up and semi-rigid) and taping
have been shown to reduce both the frequency and severity of ankle
sprains during athletic activities. Semi-rigid braces tend to have
a more positive effect for individuals with a history of ankle
sprains than for athletes without history. Such lacing and taping
methods currently used are time consuming and a waste of resources.
Upon the completion of use, the user cuts off and discards the
taping. This process increases the time and cost of providing
support for the foot and ankle during athletic activities. Thus,
improvements to support members that brace the foot and ankle of a
person wearing the bracing are beneficial.
SUMMARY
[0008] In at least one embodiment, an article of footwear includes
an outer shell, an inner layer positioned inside of the outer
shell, and at least one tensioning member engaging the inner layer.
The inner layer is configured to surround and conform to at least a
portion of a human foot. The at least one tensioning member
includes a portion that extends to a position that is outside of
the outer shell, wherein the portion that extends to the position
that is outside of the outer shell is configured to enable
tightening and loosening of the at least one tensioning member.
[0009] In at least one other embodiment, an article of footwear
includes a sole, an upper connected to the sole, the upper and the
sole defining a foot cavity, a tensioning member positioned within
the foot cavity, and a tension adjustment member positioned outside
of the upper. The tensioning member is configured to apply a
compressive force to a foot positioned within the foot cavity. The
tension adjustment member is configured to adjust the compressive
force applied to the foot positioned within the foot cavity.
[0010] In at least one embodiment, a method of applying compression
to a foot includes inserting the foot into a shoe having an outer
shell, touching a portion of a tension adjustment member positioned
outside of the outer shell, and moving the tension adjustment
member in order to bring a tensioning member into closer engagement
with the foot and provide compression to the foot. The tension
adjustment member is coupled to the tensioning member that is
positioned at least partially within the shoe.
[0011] The above described features and advantages, as well as
others, will become more readily apparent to those of ordinary
skill in the art by reference to the following detailed description
and accompanying drawings. While it would be desirable to provide
an apparatus that provides one or more of these or other
advantageous features as may be apparent to those reviewing this
disclosure, the teachings disclosed herein extend to those
embodiments which fall within the scope of any appended claims,
regardless of whether they include or accomplish one or more of the
advantages or features mentioned herein.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012] FIG. 1A is a cutaway medial side view illustrating the
placement of tension members in an article of footwear.
[0013] FIG. 1B is a cutaway lateral side view illustrating the
placement of tension members in the article of footwear depicted in
FIG. 1A.
[0014] FIG. 2A is a side view illustrating the medial side of the
article of footwear depicted in FIG. 1A.
[0015] FIG. 2B is a side view illustrating the lateral side of the
article of footwear depicted in FIG. 1B.
[0016] FIG. 3 is a top view of tensioning members positioned above
the forefoot in the article of footwear depicted in FIG. 2A and
FIG. 2B.
[0017] FIG. 4 is a side view of adjustment members in the article
of footwear depicted in FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B.
[0018] FIG. 5 is a view of the tensioning members that are
configured to engage a midfoot portion of a foot in the article
footwear depicted in FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B.
[0019] FIG. 6 is a view of tensioning members that are configured
to engage an ankle in the article of footwear depicted in FIG. 2A
and FIG. 2B.
[0020] FIG. 7 is a view of an inner layer surrounding a sole of a
foot in the article of footwear depicted in FIG. 2A and FIG.
2B.
[0021] FIG. 8 is a view of a tensioning strap and support members
positioned around an upper portion of a foot and ankle in the
article of footwear depicted in FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B.
[0022] FIG. 9 is a side view of an alternative embodiment of
footwear that includes support members incorporated into the
footwear.
[0023] FIG. 10 is a cutaway side view illustrating horizontal and
vertical supports on the medial and lateral sides of the article of
footwear depicted in FIG. 9.
[0024] FIG. 11 is a cutaway side view of the medial and lateral
sides of an alternative article of footwear illustrating channels
that enable movement of tensioning members depicted in FIG. 9.
[0025] FIG. 12A is a posterior view illustrating an inner layer and
stabilizing member for a heel in an article of footwear.
[0026] FIG. 12B is lower posterior perspective view of the inner
layer and stabilizing member for a heel depicted in FIG. 12A.
[0027] FIG. 12C is an anterior view of the inner layer and
stabilizing member for an ankle depicted in FIG. 12A-FIG. 12B.
[0028] FIG. 12D is a medial side view of the article of footwear
depicted in FIG. 12A-FIG. 12C illustrating the position of an ankle
stabilizing member.
[0029] FIG. 12E is a lateral side view of an inner layer and
stabilizing member for an ankle in the article of footwear depicted
in FIG. 12A-FIG. 12D.
[0030] FIG. 13 is a partial cutaway view of an alternative
embodiment of the article of footwear of FIG. 1A illustrating an
alternative tensioning strap arrangement.
[0031] FIG. 14 is an partial cutaway view illustrating an
alternative arrangement of tensioning members in an article of
footwear.
[0032] FIG. 15 is an illustration depicting tensioning members
attached to a strap in an article of footwear.
[0033] FIG. 16 is an illustration depicting the positions of
tensioning straps and a support member in another alternative
embodiment of an article of footwear.
[0034] FIG. 17 is an illustration of a tensioning strap in a medial
side and lateral side of an alternative embodiment of an article of
footwear.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0035] For a general understanding of the details for the footwear
disclosed herein, the drawings are referenced throughout this
document. In the drawings, like reference numerals designate like
elements. As used herein the term "foot" may refer to a portion of
the human foot, a full human foot, and to the ankle. Various
portions of the foot include, but are not limited to, the forefoot,
midfoot, upper foot, heel, and ankle. The terms "medial" and
"medial side" refer to the inner side of a foot extending from the
large toe to the heel, and the terms "lateral" and "lateral side"
refer to the outer side of the foot extending from the small toe to
the heel. The term "user" may refer to a person wearing an article
of footwear or another person such as an athletic trainer. The user
may adjust the article of footwear to apply compression and support
to the foot as described herein.
Article of Footwear with Tensioning Members
[0036] FIG. 1A,-FIG. 8 depict an article of footwear, embodied here
as a cleat 10, having an inner layer 12 positioned inside of an
outer shell 13 (illustrated by dotted line 13 in FIG. 1A and FIG.
1B). FIG. 1A depicts the medial side of cleat 10, while FIG. 1B
depicts the lateral side of the cleat 10. FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B
depict the cleat 10 including features omitted from FIG. 1A and
FIG. 1B for clarity. Cleat 10 includes an inner layer 12 that
conforms to the foot and ankle region 14 of a user. The cleat 10
includes tensioning members 16 that may be adjusted by the user of
the cleat 10 to provide compression to various portions of the foot
14 after the foot 14 is inserted into the cleat 10. Tensioning
members 16 include forefoot tensioning members 16A-16B, midfoot
tensioning members 20A-20B, upper foot tensioning members 30A-30B,
and tensioning straps 52, as explained below. Cleat 10 may be worn
on a foot 14 that is inserted inside of the cleat 10. While the
illustrations of FIG. 1A-FIG. 1B depict different numbers of
tensioning members than FIG. 2A-FIG. 2B, it will be understood that
these figures depict the same embodiment of an article of footwear
and that the different numbers of tensioning members 16 seen in
FIG. 1A-FIG. 1B are simply intended to illustrate that different
numbers and arrangements of tensioning members 16 are possible
within various embodiments of the article of footwear. While FIG.
1A-FIG. 2B depict a cleat 10, alternative embodiments may include
any suitable shoe, footwear, boot, and other articles that may be
worn around the ankle and/or foot.
[0037] The inner layer 12 may be comprised of any material that
provides the user with comfort and functionality. Such materials
include, but are not limited to, compression fabrics,
polypropylenes, webbing, neoprene, elastane, synthetics, and the
like. The inner layer 12 may be formed as a flexible boot or sock
that conforms to the foot and ankle. The inner layer 12
accommodates the foot 14 and is configured to fit snugly about the
foot and ankle 14. As seen in FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B, one or more
sleeves 19 may be affixed to the inner layer 12. The sleeve 19
separates the tensioning members 16 from the outer shell 13 and
includes one or more channels 27. Channels 27 enclose the
tensioning members 16 to enable tightening and loosening of the
tensioning members 16 and to prevent tangling of the different
tensioning members 16 in the article of footwear 10. In the
embodiment of FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B, the article of footwear 10
provides a channel for each tensioning member in the article of
footwear, but alternative configurations may include channels 27
for only a limited number of the tensioning members 16.
[0038] The outer shell 13 may be formed from one or more flexible
materials that enclose some or all of the inner layer 12. Such
materials include, but are not limited to, natural and synthetic
leather, fabrics including nylon and canvas, rubber, and plastics.
The outer shell 13 includes a lower portion or sole 15 that is
attached to an upper portion 25, referred to as an "upper" that is
attached to the sole 15. The sole 15 and upper 25 form a volume
that is referred as a "foot cavity". The foot cavity accommodates
the foot of a person wearing the cleat 10. The foot cavity also
holds the inner layer 12 and portions of the tensioning members 16.
In various alternative embodiments described below, different
support members and stabilizing members are also positioned inside
the foot cavity. The inner layer 12 may be permanently attached to
the outer shell 13 of the cleat 10, or alternatives the outer shell
13 may be selectively removable from the inner layer 12 to aid in
fitting the cleat 10 to the foot.
[0039] As shown in FIG. 1A-FIG. 8, the plurality of tensioning
members 16, include forefoot tensioning members 16A and 16B,
midfoot tensioning members 20A and 20B, upper foot tensioning
members 30A and 30B, and tensioning straps 50A and 50B. Each of the
tensioning members 16 may be adjusted to apply a selected
compressive force to a corresponding region of the foot 14 inside
of the cleat 10. As exemplified by forefoot tensioning member 16B
in FIG. 1A, each of the tensioning members 16 in cleat 10 has a
first end 16B.sub.1 attached to the inner layer 12 inside of the
foot cavity, and a second end 16B.sub.2 that extends to a position
outside of the foot cavity and the outer shell 13, depicted with a
dotted line in FIG. 1A-FIG. 1B. In the example embodiment of cleat
10, the end 16B.sub.2 that extends outside of the outer shell 13 is
attached to a tab 18B. Tab 18B is one of the tension adjustment
members 18 shown with cleat 10. The tension adjustment members 18
provide a surface that the user may grip to tighten or loosen the
tensioning members 16 that are attached to the corresponding tab
18. The tension adjustment members 18 are also configured to be
secured to the outer shell 13 or otherwise locked in place in order
to enable the tensioning members 16 to continue to apply a
compressive force to the foot 14 after the user adjusts and
releases the tensioning members 16. The tensioning members 16
included in cleat 10 are described in more detail below.
[0040] The exemplary embodiment of cleat 10 includes two sets of
crisscrossing forefoot tensioning members 16A and 16B. As
illustrated in FIGS. 1A-2B as well as FIGS. 3, and 4, forefoot
tensioning members 16A-16B are located on a forefoot region of the
cleat 10. FIG. 1B depicts one set of forefoot tensioning members
16A that are attached to the lateral side of the inner layer 12 and
cross to the medial side of the cleat 10. FIG. 1A depicts another
set of the forefoot tensioning members 16B that are attached to the
medial side of the inner layer 12 and cross to the lateral side of
the cleat 10. The tensioning members 16A and 16B are shown as
straps formed from an inelastic fabric material. Alternative
tensioning member configurations may use one or more members formed
from an elastic or inelastic material, including one or more
elastic bands that are configured to stretch in response to
tension. FIG. 2A-FIG. 3 depict the tensioning members 16A and 16B
arranged in a crisscross pattern. The ends of each set of
tensioning members 16A and 16B positioned outside of the outer
shell 13 are affixed to one of a pair of forefoot tabs 18A and 18B,
respectively. The forefoot tabs 18A and 18B each engage with one of
corresponding fastening pads 40A and 40B, respectively, positioned
on the outer shell 13 of the cleat 10.
[0041] As best shown in FIGS. 1A-1B, 2A-2B, and 4, tabs 18A and 18B
include a hoop or loop material on an inner side designed to engage
an opposing hook and loop material on the fastening pads 40A and
40B. The hooks may be either unidirectional or multidirectional.
Fastening pads 40A and 40B are examples of fastening locations,
which are predetermined locations positioned on the outer shell 13
that are configured to fasten one or more tensioning members in
place. In lieu of to the hook and loop material, any fastener that
holds the tabs 18 in position with respect to the outer shell 13
may be used including, for example, nanoadhesive materials, and
snap closures. The tensioning members 16 may include ridged
structures that engage a ratcheting fastening location to enable
the tensioning member to lock in place. A lever or dial may provide
mechanical advantage to enable application of force to tighten and
loosen tensioning member.
[0042] As illustrated in FIG. 1A-FIG. 2B, in conjunction with FIG.
5, midfoot tensioning members 20A and 20B are located in a midfoot
region of the cleat 10. The midfoot tensioning members 20A are
attached to the lateral side of the inner layer 12 and extend to
the medial side of the outer shell 13 terminating in midfoot tab
22A. The midfoot tensioning members 20B are attached to the medial
side of the inner layer 12 and extend to the lateral side of the
outer shell 13 terminating in midfoot tab 22B. FIG. 5 depicts
midfoot tensioning members 20B stitched to member 23B that attaches
the tensioning members 20B to the inner layer 12. The midfoot
tensioning members 22A and 22B are arranged in a crisscross pattern
across the midfoot region. Midfoot tabs 22A-22B are configured to
engage with a corresponding attachment pad 40A-40B positioned on
the outer shell 13 in a similar manner to the forefoot tensioning
members 16A-16B.
[0043] As illustrated in FIG. 1A-FIG. 2B in conjunction with FIG. 6
and FIG. 8, upper foot tensioning members 30A and 30B are located
in an ankle and upper foot region of the cleat 10. The upper foot
tensioning members 30A are attached to the lateral side of the
inner layer 12 and cross to the medial side, terminating in an
upper foot tab 32A. Upper foot tensioning members 30B are attached
to the medial side of the inner layer 12 and extend to the lateral
side, terminating in a second upper foot tab 32B. The upper foot
tensioning members 30A and 30B are arranged in a crisscross pattern
across the upper foot region. Upper foot tabs 32A and 32B have a
hook and loop material on an inner side and outer side of each tab.
The hook and loop material on the inner side fastens to a
corresponding hook and loop fastener positioned on the outer shell
13. The hook and loop material on the outer side of each of the
upper foot tabs 32 provides a fastening location for one of the
tensioning straps 50A and 50B. As explained in further detail
below, a user may adjust the tension of the upper foot tensioning
members 30A and 30B and then secure the tabs 32A and 32B to the
outer shell 13 in order to apply a continuing compressive force to
the foot.
[0044] With particular reference to FIG. 2A-FIG. 2B in conjunction
with FIG. 7 and FIG. 8, the cleat 10 further includes a pair of
tensioning straps 50A and 50B. Each of the tensioning straps 50A
and 50B has one end attached to the inner layer 12, and a second
end attached to a pull tab 52. As shown in FIG. 7, tensioning strap
50A has one end 54 attached to the inner layer 12, and the
tensioning strap 50A is routed underneath the foot. A second
tensioning strap 50B crosses the first tensioning strap 50A,
extends longitudinally from the heel 60, and terminates at a pull
tab 52. FIG. 1, FIG. 2, and FIG. 7 show cleat 10 with two
tensioning straps 50A and 50B. An alternative embodiment, however,
may only use a single tensioning strap. The tensioning straps 50A
and 50B crisscross and run substantially longitudinally along the
ankle and lower leg and terminating with pull tabs 52A and 52B,
respectively. Pull tabs 52A and 52B include a hook and loop
fastener material that compliments the material on the outer
surface of the upper foot tabs 32. While in the present embodiment,
tensioning straps 50A and 50B are shown as attached in the vicinity
of the midfoot and forefoot, an alternate embodiment includes
adjustable attachment means, such as hook and loop fasteners,
rather than permanent attachment.
[0045] In operation, the user first inserts a foot 14 inside the
inner layer 12 positioned in the foot cavity formed inside the sole
15 and upper 25. The foot 14 slides into the inner layer 12 and
seats the heel of the foot into the heel portion 60. When inserting
the foot 14, tabs 18A-18B, 22A-22B, 32A-32B and the pull tabs
52A-52B are disengaged from counterpart fastening locations. The
user may then apply a compressive force to the foot 14 using one or
more of the tensioning members 16 on the cleat 10. In one
embodiment, the user pulls forefoot tabs 18A and 18B away from each
other to apply a tensile force that tightens the forefoot
tensioning members 16A and 16B. The user engages the forefoot tab
18A-18B with the forefoot of the cleat 10 thus maintaining and
locking in the applied tension on the forefoot tensioning members
16A-16B. The user pulls midfoot tabs 22A and 22B away from each
other to applying a tensile force that tightens the midfoot
tensioning members 20A and 20B. The user then engages the midfoot
tabs 22A and 22B with the midfoot of the cleat 10 thus maintaining
and locking in the applied tension on the midfoot tensioning
members 20A and 20B. The user pulls upper foot tabs 32A and 32B
away from each other to apply a tensile force that tightens the
upper foot tensioning members 30A and 30B. The user then engages
the upper foot tabs 32A and 32B with the upper foot of the cleat 10
thus maintaining and locking in the applied tension on the upper
foot tensioning members 30A and 30B. The forefoot tensioning
members 16A-16B, midfoot tensioning members 20A-20B, and the upper
foot tensioning members 30A-30B may be tightened in any order.
[0046] Once tension has been applied to the tensioning members
16A-16B, 20A-20B, and 30A-30B, the user uses pull tabs 52 to pull
and apply a tensile force to the tensioning straps 50. The user
pulls the pull tabs 52 to apply a selected tensile force to the
tensioning straps 50A and 50B, and engages pull tabs 52A and 52B
with the upper foot tabs 32A and 32B, respectively, to secure the
tensioning straps 50A and 50B in the selected position. The result
of the aforementioned tensioning enables the user to fully lock the
cleat 10 about the foot and ankle region. In an alternative
embodiment, the tensioning straps 50A and 50B may have fastening
material such as hook and loop material positioned on both sides of
the tensioning straps 50A and 50B. In this embodiment, the user
pulls on tensioning straps 50A and 50B to apply compression to the
foot 14 prior to adjusting the upper foot tabs 32A and 32B.
[0047] When one of the tensioning members 16A-16B, 20A-20B,
30A-30B, and 50A-50B inside of the outer shell 13 is tightened, the
effective length of the tightened tensioning member inside of the
outer shell 13 decreases, and the effective length of the portion
of the tensioning member that extends through the outer shell 13
increases. The term "effective length" refers to the proportion of
the length of one or more of the tensioning members 16 that is
either inside of or outside of the outer shell 13. As the effective
length of one of the tensioning members 16 increases inside the
outer shell 13, the corresponding effective length decreases
outside of the outer shell 13, and vice versa. Each of the
tensioning members 16A-16B, 20A-20B, 30A-30B, and 50A-50B may be
loosened as well as tightened. Each tensioning member may be
loosened when a corresponding tension adjustment member 18 for a
tensioning member 16 is detached from a corresponding attachment
location of the cleat 10. The user may loosen the tensioning member
and then engage the tab with a corresponding attachment location to
maintain the applied tension. When one of the tensioning members
16A-16B, 20A-20B, 30A-30B, and 50A-50B is loosened, the effective
length of the loosened tensioning member inside of the outer shell
13 increases, and the effective length of the portion of the
tensioning member that extends through the outer shell 13
decreases.
Article of Footwear with Support Members
[0048] With reference to FIG. 9-FIG. 10, an alternative embodiment
of an article of footwear 900 is disclosed that includes support
members 100 and 102. The support members 100 and 102 enable the
footwear article 900 to retain a predetermined shape and continue
providing support to a foot inserted in the footwear article 900
when the various tensioning members described above apply
compression to the foot 14. The support members 100 and 102 provide
a stiffening force to the footwear article 900 to prevent the ankle
and foot from rolling or spraining. The support members 100 and 102
may be incorporated with any of the embodiments of footwear and
modifications thereof that are described in this application.
[0049] Footwear article 900 includes vertical supports 100 and
horizontal supports 102 shown in FIG. 9. Vertical supports 100 are
oriented in a substantially longitudinal direction with the ankle
and lower leg of a foot inserted in the footwear article 900. The
vertical supports 100 are integrated into an inner layer of the
footwear article 900 similar to inner layer 12 seen above. Vertical
supports 100 originate proximate the bottom of the inner layer and
run the length thereof. The vertical supports 100 may be removable
or permanently affixed to the inner layer. Additionally, the
vertical supports may follow the contours of the foot.
Additionally, the footwear article 900 may include horizontal
supports 102 that are oriented in a substantially longitudinal with
the foot inserted in the footwear article 900. The horizontal
supports 102 may be operably connected to the eyelets or lacing
system 104 of the footwear article 900 or to the tensioning members
16 described above.
[0050] As shown in FIG. 10, the vertical supports 100 and
horizontal supports 102 may be formed from one or more members
formed from a polymer such as a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU)
material. In the embodiment of FIG. 9 and FIG. 10, the TPU forming
the supports 100 and 102 is approximately 3 mm thick, although
different support configurations may have different thicknesses.
Vertical supports 100 have a lower end 105A near the sole of the
footwear 900 with a wider width that tapers to a narrower width at
an upper end 105B proximate to the top of the footwear 900. The
inner layer 12 may further comprise a top layer 120 formed from a
stretchable fabric material and a bottom layer 128 formed by an
elastic material. The bottom layer 128 faces the foot, while the
top 120 engages the tensioning members 16 and outer shell. The
vertical support members 100 and horizontal support members 102 are
positioned between the top layer 120 and bottom layer 128.
Article of Footwear with Tensioning Member Channels Positioned Over
Support Members
[0051] FIG. 11 depicts another alternative embodiment of an article
of footwear, depicted here as a partial cutaway view of a cleat
1100 that includes support members integrated with an inner layer
1112 and channels such as channel 1140 to guide tensioning members
1130. Inner layer 1112 is positioned inside of an outer shell 1113.
Cleat 1100 includes support members 1104 that are similar to the
vertical support members 100 seen in FIG. 9-10. As shown in FIG.
11, the cleat 1100 may include one or more channels 1140 formed in
the inner layer 1112 to enable movement of one or more of the
tensioning members 16 described above. The inner layer 1112 further
includes a top layer 1120 and bottom layer 1128. Both the top layer
1120 and bottom layer 1128 are formed from a stretchable materials
such as compression fabrics, polypropylenes, webbing, neoprene,
elastane, synthetics, and the like. The channel 1140 is stitched
into the top layer 1120 of the inner layer 1112. The channel 1140
corresponds to the shape and configuration of one of the tensioning
members in the cleat 1110, exemplified by tensioning member 1130.
The tensioning member 1130 is arranged over one or more of the
support members, such as vertical support 1100, and under the
channel 1140 in the top layer 1120. In operation, the channel 1140
enables the tensioning member 1130 to tighten and loosen without
interference from the outer shell 1113. Multiple channels such as
channel 1140 may also prevent fouling or tangling of different
tensioning members in operation. While FIG. 11 depicts a cleat 1100
that includes vertical support members 1100, a similar embodiment
may include vertical and horizontal support members as well.
Article of Footwear with Adjustable Stabilizing Members
[0052] In another alternative footwear embodiment, one or more
adjustable stabilizing members are positioned within the footwear
to provide additional stability to one or more portions of a foot
that is inserted in the footwear. FIG. 12A-FIG. 12E depict an inner
layer 1212 of footwear 1200 that includes stabilizing members 1202
that provide stability to portions of the foot. The stabilizing
members 1202 and are held in place using one or more tensioning
members 1215, embodied here as flexible straps 1208 and
1220A-1220B. The stabilizing members 1202 are repositionable
members placed between an inner layer 1212 and outer layer (omitted
for clarity) inside of the foot cavity of an article of footwear.
Each stabilizing member 1202 is configured to conform to one or
more regions of the foot, such as the heel or ankle. One or more of
the tensioning members 1215 engages each stabilizing member 1202 to
enable the user to adjust the stabilizing member 1202 with respect
to a foot in the footwear. One end of each tensioning member 1215
extends outside of the foot cavity and outer shell of the footwear,
and may be secured in position after tension is applied. Thus, the
user may tighten, loosen, or otherwise adjust the fit of each
stabilizing member 1202 to the foot by tightening and loosening a
tension member 1215 in a similar manner to the tensioning members
16 described above.
[0053] FIG. 12A and FIG. 12B depict an inner layer 1212, heel
stabilizing member 1204, and tensioning member 1208, seen here as a
tensioning strap. Heel stabilizing member 1204 has a shape that
conforms to the heel 1260 of a foot placed in the inner layer 1212,
and the stabilizing member 1204 is positioned behind the heel. The
heel stabilizing member 1204 has a U-shaped configuration with a
lower end 1206 positioned at the base of the heel 1260 and two
upper ends 1207A and 1207B that extend toward the ankle.
Alternative configurations of the heel stabilizing member 1204 may
include different shapes that provide stability to the heel 1260.
The lower end 1260 is affixed to the inner layer 1212. The upper
ends 1207A and 1207B engage the tensioning member 1208 around the
lateral and medial sides of the posterior of the heel 1260. The
tensioning member 1208 may be fixedly attached to the upper ends
1207A and 1207B of the stabilizing member 1204, or may thread
through openings formed in the upper ends 1207A and 1207B of the
stabilizing member 1204.
[0054] The tensioning member 1208 includes one end 1232 that is
attached to the inner layer 1212 under the sole of the foot. The
length of the tensioning member 1208 may be fixedly attached or
threaded through the ends 1207A and 1207B of the stabilizing member
1204. A second end of the tensioning member 1236 may end in a
tension adjustment member, such as a tab or other attachment device
that is configured to engage a fastening pad or other fastening
mechanism positioned on the outside of the footwear in a similar
manner to the embodiments of FIG. 1A-FIG. 8.
[0055] FIG. 12C-FIG. 12E depict two ankle stabilizing members 1216A
and 1216B that conform to the medial side and lateral side,
respectively, of an ankle. Both of the ankle stabilizing members
1216A and 1216B are formed with a U-shape. As seen in FIG. 12C and
FIG. 12D, a curved end 1217A of the U-shaped stabilizing member
1216A is positioned to engage the posterior side of the medial
malleolus 1218A. The curved end 1217A is affixed to the inner layer
1212. The open ends 1219A and 1219B of the stabilizing member 1216A
extend above and below the medial malleolus, respectively, toward
the anterior of the foot. The end 1219A of the ankle stabilizing
member 1216A engages one end of a tensioning member 1220A. The
tensioning member 1220A has a length that extends outside of the
article of footwear to a second end. The user may pull on the
second end of the tensioning member 1220A or on a tension
adjustment member affixed thereto in order to adjust the ankle
stabilizing member 1216A. The end 1219B of the ankle stabilizing
member 1216A engages a strap 1207 that is affixed to the lateral
side of the inner layer 1212.
[0056] As seen in FIG. 12C and FIG. 12E, a curved end 1217B of the
U-shaped ankle stabilizing member 1216B is positioned to engage the
posterior side of the lateral malleolus 1218B. The curved end 1217B
is affixed to the inner layer 1212. The open ends 1221A and 1221B
of the stabilizing member 1216B extend above and below the lateral
malleolus, respectively, toward the anterior of the foot. The end
1221A of the ankle stabilizing member 1216A engages one end of a
tensioning member 1220B. The tensioning member 1220B has a length
that extends outside of the article of footwear to a second end.
The user may pull on the second end of the tensioning member 1220B
or on a tension adjustment member affixed thereto in order to
adjust the ankle stabilizing member 1216B. The end 1221B of the
ankle stabilizing member 1216B engages a strap 1205 that is affixed
to the medial side of the inner layer 1212.
[0057] In a finished article of footwear, an outer shell, omitted
in FIG. 12A-FIG. 12E for clarity, encloses the stabilizing members
1204, 1216A and 1216B. The stabilizing members 1204, 1216A, and
1216B are not directly attached to the outer shell to enable
adjustment of the semi-rigid members. The stabilizing members 1204,
1216A, and 1216B are each formed from one or more semi-rigid
materials to enable the stabilizing members to conform to the foot
and ankle while resisting ankle rolls and other movements that may
cause injuries. As used herein, the term "semi-rigid" refers to a
material that resists deformation under stress, but deforms in
response to a sufficient force and then returns to an undeformed
state when the force is removed. Common examples of semi-rigid
materials include polymeric materials such as polyimides and
thermoplastics. The stabilizing members depicted in FIG. 12A-12E
may be incorporated into any of the footwear embodiments and
modifications thereof described in this application.
[0058] In operation, a user inserts the foot inside the inner layer
1212 located in the foot cavity to enable the heel 1260 to engage
the stabilizing member 1204 and the ankle to engage the stabilizing
members 1216A and 1216B. The user may first apply a selected
tensioning force to the end of the tensioning member 1208 that
extends outside of the footwear to draw the stabilizing member 1204
into further engagement with the heel 1260 to provide support to
the heel 1260 when wearing the footwear. As described above, the
tensioning member 1208 may be tightened or loosened to increase or
decrease, respectively, the tightness of the stabilizing member
1204 with respect to the foot. The tensioning member 1208 is
secured to an outer shell of the footwear in a similar manner to
the embodiments of FIG. 1-FIG. 8 to retain the stabilizing member
1204 in the selected position.
[0059] After adjusting the tensioning member 1208 and associated
heel stabilizing member 1204, the user may then adjust the
tensioning members 1220A and 1220B that engage ankle stabilizing
members 1216A and 1216B, respectively. To accomplish this, the user
applies a selected tensioning force to the ends of tensioning
members 1220A and 1220B that extend outside of the footwear and
secures them to the outer shell to engage the stabilizing members
1216A and 1216B, respectively, to the ankle. The foregoing
description does not limit the order of adjusting the tensioning
members 1215 and stabilization members 1202. The user may adjust
the tensioning members 1208, 1220A, and 1220B and corresponding
stabilization members 1204, 1216A and 1216B in any order.
[0060] The stabilizing members 1204, 1216A, and 1216B provide
additional support to the heel and ankle. The tensioning members
1215 enable a user to adjust the stabilizing members 1202 to
conform to the foot and ankle while wearing the footwear. While the
foregoing embodiments depict stabilizing members 1202 engaging the
heel and ankle regions of the foot, alternative embodiments may
have stabilizing members for one of the heel and ankle, and may
include similar stabilizing members that engage other areas of the
foot.
Article of Footwear with a Locking Strap
[0061] FIG. 13 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a cleat 90
that includes a locking strap 96 for securing a tensioning strap 92
in place after a user adjusts the tensioning strap to apply
compression to a foot inserted into the cleat 90. Cleat 90 includes
tensioning strap 92 positioned in the foot cavity, shown here in a
partial cutaway view, that is attached at an attachment point 94 in
proximity to the forefoot or midfoot region of the cleat 90. Cleat
90 also includes a locking strap 96 positioned on an outer shell 95
of the cleat 90. The locking strap 96 includes a first end that is
affixed to the outer shell 95. The locking strap 96 wraps around
the ankle region of a foot inserted into the cleat 90, to surround
an end of the tensioning strap 92 or a tensioning member affixed to
the end of the tensioning strap 92 that extends out of the outer
shell 95. A second end 97 of the locking strap 96 is configured to
be releasably secured to another portion of the locking strap 96
using a hook and loop material. Alternative embodiments may include
various other fastening mechanisms that secure the second end 97 of
the locking strap 96 in place.
[0062] The cleat 90 also includes a toe guard 98. Toe guard 98 may
comprise a material with an increased resistance to compression
forces, such as those experiences when a large load is placed
thereupon. Such materials exhibit a higher modulus of elasticity
and include, but are not limited to, Kevlar fibers, plastics, and
the like.
[0063] In operation, a user first inserts a foot into cleat 90, The
user then pulls on an end of tensioning strap 92 that extends out
of the outer shell 95 to apply a tensile force to the tensioning
strap 92. Such application urges the heel of a foot inserted into
the cleat 90 into the heel region 91 of the cleat 90. The heel
region 91 may include an external support member 93 that engages
with the posterior end of the heel. The end of the tensioning strap
92 is secured to the outer shell 95 of the cleat 90 using a hook
and loop type of engagement (although other known methods may also
be used). The user then wraps locking strap 96 around the ankle
region of the foot and the end of the tensioning strap 92. After
the locking strap 96 is wrapped around the foot, the user fastens
the second end 97 of the locking strap. The locking strap 96
enables the tensioning strap 92 to remain in a position with the
tensile force applied after the user tightens the tensioning strap
92.
Article of Footwear with Serially Arranged Tensioning Members
[0064] FIG. 14 depicts four views of another embodiment of an
article of footwear 1410 that includes tensioning members engaged
in series with adjustment tabs. In the embodiment of FIG. 14, a
first set of tensioning members 1420A engage the mid foot region
extending from a midfoot flap 1426 on the medial side of the
footwear 1410 to a tab 1422 positioned on the medial side of the
footwear 1410. A second set of tensioning members 1420B extend from
the tab 1422 underneath the sole 1418 to another tab 1424 that
engages a fastening pad 1440A on the lateral side of the footwear.
In a similar arrangement, a first set of tensioning members 1430A
extend from a flap 1428 on the lateral side of the footwear 1410
and extend to a first tab 1434 that may be secured to a fastening
pad 1444. A second set of tensioning members 1430B extend from the
first tab 1434 around the posterior of the ankle to another tab
1436 that is secured to the fastening pad 1444 on the lateral side
of the foot. In the embodiment of FIG. 14, fastening pad 1444 wraps
around the posterior of the footwear 1410 to fasten flaps 1434 and
1436 on both the lateral and medial side of the footwear 1410. An
alternative embodiment may include separate fastening pads on the
medial and lateral sides. Flaps 1426 and 1428 may overlap each
other.
[0065] In operation, a user inserts a foot into the footwear 1410.
The user tightens tensioning members 1420A by pulling on the tab
1422, and then secures the tab 1422 to a medial fastening pad
1440A. The user then tightens tensioning members 1420B by pulling
on the tab 1424 and securing the tab 1424 to a lateral fastening
pad 1440B. In a similar manner, the user may adjust tab 1434 first
followed by tab 1436 to adjust the tensioning members 1430A and
1430B, respectively. The magnitude of compressive force applied to
the foot by tensioning members 1420A and 1430A may be different
than the compressive force applied by tensioning members 1420B and
1430B, respectively. The configuration of footwear 1410 provides
compression to the medial and lateral sides of a foot without a
crisscross arrangement of the tensioning members 1430A and
1430B.
Article of Footwear with Tensioning Members Affixed to a Strap
[0066] FIG. 15 depicts a medial and lateral view of another
embodiment of an article of footwear 1510 that includes tensioning
members that are attached to a strap. Footwear 1510 includes
tensioning members 1520 that are attached to an inner layer 1512
near the heel of the foot. The tensioning members 1520 are attached
to one end of a strap 1530 that wraps around the ankle and is
configured to be fastened to the footwear 1510 at a location above
the ankle. The strap 1530 is attached the tensioning members 1520
at a location between the inner layer 1512 and an outer shell 1513,
with the other end of the strap 1530 extending to the outside of
the outer shell 1513. The strap 1530 has a width that enables each
of the tensioning members 1520 to be attached to one end of the
strap 1530. The strap 1530 is positioned within a sleeve 1516
formed outside of the inner layer 1512. The sleeve 1516 enables the
strap 1530 to be tightened and loosened in operation. The strap
1530 may be attached to tensioning members on either the medial or
lateral side of the foot, and may wrap around the foot and ankle
one or more times.
[0067] In operation, a user inserts a foot into the footwear 1510.
The user pulls on the end of the strap 1530 that extends outside of
the outer shell 1513. The tensioning members 1520 apply a
compressive force to the heel, and the strap 1520 applies a
compressive force to the ankle. The tensioning members 1520 are
shown as engaging the heel, but may engage the forefoot and midfoot
regions as well.
Article of Footwear with Tensioning Strap and Support Members
[0068] FIG. 16 depicts another alternative embodiment of an article
of footwear 1610 including tensioning straps and a support member.
Article of footwear 1610 has an inner layer 1612, with a strap 1616
that attached to the lateral side of the inner layer 1612. The
strap 1616 extends over the fore foot region through a D-ring 1618
on the medial side of the footwear 1610. The strap 1616 extends
back to the lateral side of the footwear 1610, where an end of the
strap 1616 may be fastened to the exterior of the footwear 1610. A
second strap 1622 includes one end attached to the upper edge of
the sole 1620 around the forefoot, midfoot, and heel portions of
the sole 1622. Strap 1622 extends around the upper foot and wraps
around the ankle in the footwear 1610. The strap 1622 includes one
end 1624 that extends outside of an outer shell of the footwear
1610 to enable tightening and loosening of the strap 1620.
[0069] Footwear 1610 includes one or more pockets 1628 formed in
the inner layer 1612. A support member, embodied herein as a nylon
support member 1632 is positioned within the pocket 1628. The
pocket 1628 is configured to enable the support member 1632 to move
within the pocket 1628. In the example of FIG. 16, the pocket 1628
is configured with a length and a width that are 6 mm larger than
the corresponding length and width of the support member 1632.
Strap 1622 wraps around the pocket 1628 and support member
1632.
[0070] In operation, a user inserts a foot into the footwear 1610.
The user may pull on straps 1616 and 1622 to apply compression to
the forefoot, midfoot, heel, and ankle regions of the foot. Tension
may be applied to the straps 1616 and 1622 in any order. The
support member 1632 may move within the pocket 1628 to provide
support to the foot in different orientations when wearing the
footwear 1610.
Article of Footwear with Tensioning Strap Wrapped Around Foot
[0071] FIG. 17 depicts another alternative embodiment of an article
of footwear 1710 including a tensioning strap 1720 that is
configured to pass under the foot and around the ankle. Tensioning
strap 1720 is attached to an inner layer 1712 of the footwear at a
midfoot location 1724 on the lateral side of the footwear 1710. The
tensioning strap 1720 extends horizontally along the lateral side
of the footwear 1710, wraps around the medial side of the footwear
1710, and returns to the midfoot region on the lateral side of the
footwear 1710. The tensioning strap 1720 further extends down the
lateral side of the footwear 1710, under the foot, and extends up
the medial side of the footwear 1710 where an end 1730 is
positioned outside of an outer shell of the footwear 1710. The end
1730 may be fastened to the outer shell of the footwear 1710.
[0072] In operation, a user inserts a foot into the footwear 1710.
The user may pull on the strap 1720 to apply compression to the
midfoot and ankle regions of the foot. In the embodiment of FIG.
17, a single strap 1720 applies compression to both the medial and
lateral sides of the foot. While the strap 1720 is depicted as
being attached to the lateral side of the footwear 1710 and
extending through the medial side of the footwear 1710, and
alternative configuration may arrange a tensioning strap to extend
from the medial side to the lateral side.
[0073] Although the present invention has been described with
respect to certain preferred embodiments, it will be appreciated by
those of skill in the art that other implementations and
adaptations are possible. Moreover, there are advantages to
individual advancements described herein that may be obtained
without incorporating other aspects described above. Therefore, the
spirit and scope of any appended claims should not be limited to
the description of the preferred embodiments contained herein.
* * * * *