U.S. patent application number 13/352272 was filed with the patent office on 2012-05-10 for resilient shoe with pivoting sole.
Invention is credited to Alexander Elnekaveh.
Application Number | 20120110871 13/352272 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 46018285 |
Filed Date | 2012-05-10 |
United States Patent
Application |
20120110871 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Elnekaveh; Alexander |
May 10, 2012 |
Resilient Shoe With Pivoting Sole
Abstract
An improved resilient shoe sole includes an outsole having a
substantially inelastic side wall with a heel cavity. A
substantially inelastic platform is located below the heel cavity,
and a connector connects the platform with the side wall. The
connector has a particular length and thickness to maintain the
platform substantially below the sidewall when the shoe sole is not
under a wearer's weight. When brought under forces of a wearer's
weight, the connector bends and stretches as the spring compresses
to allow the platform to deflect into the heel cavity. As weight is
removed, the connector and spring cause the platform to deflect out
of the heel cavity, biasing the platform below the side wall.
Inventors: |
Elnekaveh; Alexander;
(Sherman Oaks, CA) |
Family ID: |
46018285 |
Appl. No.: |
13/352272 |
Filed: |
January 17, 2012 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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12642642 |
Dec 18, 2009 |
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13352272 |
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11804803 |
May 21, 2007 |
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12642642 |
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60889725 |
Feb 13, 2007 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
36/87 ;
36/103 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A43B 7/082 20130101;
A43B 1/0054 20130101; A43B 21/30 20130101; A43B 13/182
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
36/87 ;
36/103 |
International
Class: |
A43B 13/18 20060101
A43B013/18; A43B 13/04 20060101 A43B013/04 |
Claims
1. A shoe having a resilient sole and a heel cavity, comprising: an
outsole having a substantially inelastic sidewall, a substantially
inelastic platform having a perimeter wall, and an elastic
connector between the sidewall and the perimeter wall; wherein the
connector limits movement of the platform relative the sidewall
between a substantially unloaded position wherein the connector
maintains the platform substantially below the sidewall, and a
substantially loaded position, wherein the connector is deformed
such that the platform is deflected into the heel cavity and
substantially surrounded by the sidewall.
2. The shoe of claim 1 further comprising a spring spanning the
heel cavity is disposed atop the platform.
3. The shoe of claim 2 wherein between 50 and 700 pounds of
pressure is required to fully compress the spring and
connector.
4. The shoe of claim 1 wherein in the unloaded position, the
platform is maintained between two and twenty five millimeters
below the sidewall.
5. The shoe of claim 1 wherein in the unloaded position, the
connector is between one and ten millimeters in length between the
sidewall and platform.
6. The shoe of claim 1 wherein in the unloaded position, the
connector has a thickness of between one and ten millimeters.
7. The shoe of claim 1 wherein the platform, sidewall, and
connector are molded from a single, unitary piece of rubber.
8. The shoe of claim 1 wherein the sidewall is made of
thermoplastic polyurethane.
9. The shoe of claim 8 wherein the thermoplastic polyurethane is
clear.
10. The shoe of claim 1 wherein the outsole is made of a material
chosen from the list of ethylene vinyl acetate, polyurethane,
thermoplastic polyurethane and rubber.
11. A shoe having a resilient sole, comprising: an outsole having a
substantially inelastic sidewall, and a substantially inelastic
platform; an elastic connector between the sidewall and the
platform; a spring biased to maintain the platform substantially
lower than the sidewall; wherein under a wearer's weight the spring
compresses causing bending and stretching of the connector, thereby
allowing the platform to deflect substantially upwardly into the
outsole.
12. A method of providing a cushioned impact while walking or
running, comprising the steps of providing a shoe having a
resilient sole and a heel cavity; providing an outsole having a
sidewall, a substantially inelastic platform, and an elastic
connector therebetween; varying the length or thickness of the
connector depending upon a user's weight or performance of the shoe
desired; donning the shoe; applying a substantial portion of the
user's weight onto the sole; substantially bending and stretching
the connector; and substantially deflecting the platform into the
heel cavity.
13. The method of claim 12, further comprising the steps of:
removing the substantial portion of the user's weight from the
sole; bending and unstretching the connector; and deflecting the
platform out of the heel cavity.
14. The method of claim 12, further comprising the steps of:
providing a spring in the heel cavity to help bias the platform
outside the heel cavity.
Description
RELATED APPLICATION DATA
[0001] The present application is a continuation-in-part of U.S.
application Ser. No. 12/642,642, entitled Resilient Sports Shoe,
which is a continuation in part of U.S. application Ser. No.
11/804,803 entitled "improved Ventilated And Resilient Shoe
Apparatus And System" filed May 21, 2007, which claims the benefit
of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/889,725 entitled "Shoe with
Resilient Heel" filed Feb. 13, 2007.
BACKGROUND
[0002] 1. Field of the Preferred Embodiment
[0003] This invention pertains generally to wearable articles for
the feet, and more particularly to shoes having a resilient sole
having a shock-absorbing platform and heel cavity, possibly with
air movement through the sole.
[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0005] Conventional shoes are often uncomfortable due to a lack of
resiliency in the sole, particularly in the heel area. Inflexible
heels do not promote walking or standing for long periods of time
because they lack substantial cushioning and resiliency to
accommodate pressure exerted on a wearer's feet. This lack of
cushioning causes undue pressure and force-of-impact to be felt up
into the knees, spine, and various other joints. Compressible heels
having recessed chambers and springs in some cases are not new.
None of the prior art successfully cushions a wearer's feet to the
extent of the instant invention. Conventional shoes also fail to
provide a flow of fresh air through the inside of the sole around
an individual's feet.
[0006] For instance, U.S. Pat. No. 1,471,042 to Lewis (1923)
discloses a shoe that uses coil springs internal to the defined
heel. Lewis' shoe, however, uses metal plates (circular metal
disks) above and below the coil spring(s) to help distribute
pressure and also has no real cavity or resiliency in the sole.
U.S. Pat. No. 2,257,482 to Resko (1941) discloses using lugs to
better seat the coil spring in the defined heel, but still uses a
metal reinforcing plate between the upper and lower soles to
distribute pressure, also lacking resiliency in the heel. U.S. Pat.
No. 3,886,674 to Pavia (1975) discloses a shoe having a plurality
of springs in a non-defined, open heel. Because the springs are not
enclosed, there is no sidewall surrounding the heel area. Further,
there is a metal plate above the springs in the heelstrike area, so
the wearer's foot still strikes against a hard surface.
[0007] Another family of prior art patents has addressed
heel/cavity design. For instance, U.S. patents to Bunns U.S. Pat.
No. 1,502,087, Denk U.S. Pat. No. 2,299,009, Carroll U.S. Pat. No.
6,622,401, and Dixon U.S. Pat. No. 5,544,431, and U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 10/022,477 to Wu disclose cavities in well
defined heels. Lombardino U.S. Pat. No. 5,743,028 discloses a
blended heel, but lacks a platform connected to a substantially
inelastic sidewall by virtue of a discrete deformable area.
Consequently, movement is limited to a hinge-like articulating
movement in the heelstrike area.
[0008] Still other patents, for instance U.S. Pat. No. 7,159,338 to
LeVert et al., disclose a spring cushioned shoe with an inner
vacuity connected by a passageway to an opening on the exterior of
the shoe. The passageway opening described in the '338 patent,
however, is both an inlet and an outlet and thus undesirably allows
fluids and other unwanted debris into the shoe to the discomfort of
the wearer and associated problems from water and mold developing
within the shoe. Similarly, U.S. Pat. No. 1,069,001 to Guy
discloses a cushioned sole and heel that allows air or other fluids
in through a check valve to serve as the cushioning medium.
[0009] U.S. Pat. No. 5,505,010 to Fukuoka discloses a shoe having a
resilient heel having a circular convexity (2b) and a ring-shape
groove (2c) surrounding the convexity. While in this structure the
convexity is capable of moving independently of other parts of the
sole, Fukuoka requires a ring-shape groove (2c) of varying
thickness, which tends to create an area of weakness, prone to
breakage and malfunction. Thus, a needs exists for an improved
ventilated and resilient shoe that overcomes the numerous
limitations and problems in the prior art.
SUMMARY
[0010] The present invention solves the above-mentioned problems in
convention shoes by providing an improved resilient and ventilated
shoe apparatus and system.
[0011] The invention includes a novel shoe in one embodiment that
is ventilated with external air. The apparatus and system circulate
air around the wearer's foot without impacting the stability or
comfort of an individual's walk. Circulating air throughout the
shoe while an individual is walking provides an additional benefit
that conventional shoes do not provide: reducing athlete's foot and
foot odor. Conventional shoes do not allow the free flow of air
throughout the inside of the shoe. Moisture and bacteria build up
inside most conventional shoes, causing athlete's foot and making
such shoes smell. The present invention provides that with every
step, the individual is circulating fresh air throughout the shoe
and around his foot. The result is a shoe interior that will not be
a breeding ground for odor-causing bacteria. The wearer's feet will
feel refreshed and better rested at the end of the day. Individuals
may also find themselves walking longer distances in the improved
shoes because their feet will feel more comfortable.
[0012] In an embodiment, air enters the shoe from outside around
the wearer's foot and flows through openings in a sole and then
through aeration chambers. The air thereafter circulates to an air
suction valve in the heel and then is directed out to the exterior
of the shoe through a one-air air exhaust valve and thereby
ventilates the wearer's foot with free flowing air. In other
embodiments, the invention includes an air pump in the heel that
operates with the one way air suction valve for air intake and
operates to expel air through the one-way air exhaust valve. In
further embodiments, the invention includes an upper sole with a
plurality of air suction holes or openings and a lower sole made
from porous, air permeable material such as open cell foam or the
like. In one or more embodiments, the shoe includes bacteria
fighting chemicals or other substances known to persons skilled in
the art to reduce shoe odor.
[0013] One embodiment of the invention includes a blended heel made
from a resilient material and has a cavity extending under the
entire instep portion of the shoe's upper. Compression springs are
placed in the cavity, including a mainspring located at
approximately the heelstrike point and two auxiliary springs for
stability located forward of the mainspring toward the shoe's toe.
The extended cavity provides even resiliency throughout the upper
sole without having to resort to metal plates. The springs assist
the resilient walls of the cavity, which extends under the instep
portion of the shoe, in supporting the wearer's foot, and the
spring's compression load is distributed throughout the sole by a
resilient layer of softer rubber adjacent the sole.
[0014] The blended heel of the invention extends under the sole in
a wedge-type configuration. This extension provides arch support
and resiliency at the shoe's instep, or midsole. In one or more
embodiments, the heel includes a height enhancer to provide lift
without the appearance of "elevator shoes." This pad located under
the heel portion also serves to distribute the load of the springs
and provides that the entire shoe is lifted, not just the wearer's
foot.
[0015] In one embodiment, the springs include a mainspring and two
smaller auxiliary springs in front of and evenly spaced to the
inside and outside of the mainspring. The mainspring offers lift to
the wearer reducing, if not eliminating, pressure on the wearer's
spine, knees, and other joints. The auxiliary springs offer
stability and additional absorption of the pressure forces
generated from walking and other activity. In one or more
embodiments, the springs are made from industrial grade aluminum
spring material or many other suitable materials are within the
scope of the invention. For example, instead of metallic springs,
other spring members such as air balls or rubber balls could be
used. The springs are aided by the resilient material itself that
makes up the heel and the cavity walls.
[0016] One embodiment of the invention includes a magnetic sleeve
that serves to further enhance the well-being of the wearer. Such
an insert uses magnetic therapy technology to offer the wearer the
additional benefit of enhancing blood circulation in the heel,
foot, and ankle areas.
[0017] In another embodiment, a shoe includes a resilient sole and
heel cavity. The sole includes an outsole with a substantially
inelastic sidewall, a substantially inelastic platform having a
perimeter wall, or height, and an elastic connector between the
sidewall and perimeter wall. The connector limits movement of the
platform relative to the sidewall between a substantially unloaded
position where the connector maintains the platform substantially
below the sidewall, and a substantially loaded position, where the
connector is deformed so that the platform is deflected to some
degree into the heel cavity and substantially surrounded by the
sidewall.
[0018] It is anticipated the shoe may have a spring spanning the
heel cavity, the spring located atop the platform. It may require
between 50 and 700 pounds of pressure to fully compress the spring
and connector.
[0019] In an unloaded position, the platform may be maintained
between two and twenty five millimeters below the sidewall. Also,
in the unloaded position, the connector may be between one and ten
millimeters in length between the sidewall and platform, and have a
thickness of between one and ten millimeters.
[0020] The platform, sidewall, and connector may be constructed
from a single, unitary piece of material, preferably rubber,
although it is also anticipated the sidewall may be made of
thermoplastic polyurethane which in various embodiments may be
clear in order to see the interior of the heel cavity. In various
embodiments, the outsole may be made of materials such as ethylene
vinyl acetate, polyurethane, thermoplastic polyurethane and rubber,
or a combination of those materials.
[0021] The substantially inelastic sidewall, inelastic platform,
spring and elastic connector are arranged such that the spring is
biased to maintain the platform substantially lower than the
sidewall. Under a wearer's weight, the spring compresses, causing
bending and stretching of the connector, and allowing the platform
to deflect substantially upward into the outsole.
[0022] In order to provide cushioned impact while walking or
running, a shoe is provided having a resilient sole and heel
cavity. Also provided is an outsole having a sidewall, a
substantially inelastic platform, and an elastic connector between
the sidewall and platform. The length or thickness of the connector
is varied, depending on a user's weight or the desired performance
characteristics of the shoes. After putting on the shoes, a user
applies a substantial portion of the user's weight onto the sole,
substantially bending and stretching the connector, and
substantially deflecting the platform into the heel cavity.
[0023] As a substantial portion of the user's weight is removed
from the sole, bending and un-stretching of the connector causes
the platform to deflect out of the heel cavity. A spring in the
heel cavity may be included and biased so as to maintain the
platform outside the heel cavity.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0024] FIG. 1 is a side cutaway view of one embodiment of the shoe
with resilient sole having heel cavity and compression springs.
[0025] FIG. 2 is a top view of the heel area showing one possible
configuration of compression springs.
[0026] FIG. 3 is a bottom detail view of a resilient plate with
lower sole and springs Removed and showing an optional one-way exit
air valve.
[0027] FIG. 4 is a side cutaway view of another embodiment of the
shoe with resilient heel cavity and springs and showing ventilation
of the inside sole.
[0028] FIG. 5 is a top cutaway view of the heel portion in one or
more embodiments of the invention, again showing ventilation of the
inside sole.
[0029] FIG. 6 is a top cutaway view of the upper sole in one or
more embodiments of the invention.
[0030] FIG. 7 is a cutaway perspective view of a variation of a
ventilation apparatus and system in one or more embodiments of the
invention.
[0031] FIG. 8 is an exploded partial view of the upper sole, second
sole and the bottom with the aeration channels in one or more
embodiments of the invention.
[0032] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of the
resilient shoe, a shoe for sporting activities.
[0033] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the lower portion of the
second embodiment shoe.
[0034] FIG. 11A is a section view through the heel portion of the
second embodiment shoe in an uncompressed state.
[0035] FIG. 11B is a section view through the heel portion of the
second embodiment shoe in a compressed state.
[0036] FIG. 12 is a rear view of the resilient shoe sole having a
heel cavity and spring disposed therein in an uncompressed
state.
[0037] FIG. 13 is a side view of the resilient shoe sole having a
heel cavity and spring disposed therein in an uncompressed
state.
[0038] FIG. 14 is a rear view of the resilient shoe sole having a
heel cavity and spring disposed therein in a compressed state.
[0039] FIG. 15 is a side view of the resilient shoe sole having a
heel cavity and spring disposed therein in a compressed state.
[0040] FIG. 16 is an enlarged view of the deformable area of the
outsole portion of the resilient shoe sole.
[0041] FIG. 17 is a side view of a sports shoe incorporating the
resilient shoe sole.
[0042] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a sports shoe incorporating
the resilient shoe sole.
[0043] FIG. 19 is a rear view of a dress shoe incorporating the
resilient shoe sole in an uncompressed state.
[0044] FIG. 20 is a side view of a dress shoe incorporating the
resilient shoe sole in an uncompressed state.
[0045] FIG. 21 is a rear view of a dress shoe incorporating the
resilient shoe sole in a compressed state.
[0046] FIG. 22 is a side view of a dress shoe incorporating the
resilient shoe sole in a compressed state.
DESCRIPTION
[0047] FIG. 1 shows an embodiment of the shoe 10 with upper 14 and
lower 16 joined along the upper sole 18 extending through the heel
portion 20, instep portion 22, and toe portion 24. The blended heel
26 defines a cavity 28 that extends from the rearmost point of the
heel portion 20 forward under the instep portion 22. The blended
heel 26 is made from a resilient material, typically rubber so the
cavity walls offer some resiliency, but other resilient materials
known to persons skilled in the art are within the scope of the
present invention.
[0048] Two separate materials may be used, as is shown here, with
the layer adjacent the upper sole of a softer material than the
remainder of the heel. The mainspring 30 is positioned orthogonal
to the longitudinal axis 12, as shown in FIG. 2, and under the
heelstrike point of the interior of the shoe. The mainspring 30 may
be secured by lugs 36 (upper) and 38 (lower; not shown) set into
recesses 40 and 42, and provides the majority of resilient force to
the wearer's steps. Auxiliary springs 32 and 34 shown in FIG. 2 add
stability and enhanced resiliency.
[0049] In one or more embodiments, a magnetic sleeve 46 is included
as shown in FIG. 1 to further enhance the well-being of the wearer
with magnetic therapy. Also, the pad 48 at the bottom of the
blended heel 26 serves not only as a height-enhancer, but also
helps to distribute the spring load throughout the heel portion 20
so that the entire shoe is lifted, not just the wearer's foot.
[0050] FIG. 2 shows one configuration of the springs. The
mainspring 30 is located generally on the longitudinal axis 12 in
the center of the shoe width, and the auxiliary springs 32 and 34
are located forward of the mainspring, toward the toe portion 24
and to either side of the longitudinal axis. The lateral spacing of
the auxiliary springs 32 and 34 provides overall stability to the
shoe and enhances the lift felt by the wearer.
[0051] One placement of the auxiliary springs 32 and 34 is to have
them spaced evenly in front of the mainspring, equidistant from
both the mainspring and the longitudinal axis, so that the wearer's
ankle is not turned either inward or outward. Also in this
configuration, the lift from the springs is directed upward to
enhance the lift from the mainspring. On the other hand, strategic
placement of the springs offset from each other may aid in the
correction of pronation or other ankle alignment problems in other
embodiments.
[0052] FIG. 3 shows the recesses 40, 52, 54 for the springs in one
embodiment and also shows how there may be other recesses 56
(rectangular, circular, or of any other shape) built into the
rubber material to aid in overall stability. The design of these
various smaller recesses 56 may aid in air circulation within the
heel cavity and may work in concert with an air pressure valve to
help express air from the cavity on depression thereof. In one or
more embodiments, the shoe 10 includes a one-way air exhaust valve
100 as shown in FIG. 3 whereby air is expelled out the valve 100
when the heel 20 is compressed and the volume of the cavity 28 is
reduced. The valve 100 is a one-way valve so that water or other
unwanted debris is prevented from entering the cavity 28. The valve
100 is also such that air freely flows out rather than seeking a
path in a forward direction through the sole as described in other
embodiments herein.
[0053] FIG. 4 shows one embodiment where a load 80 is placed onto
the shoe heel portion 20 so as to compress the mainspring 30 and
the auxiliary springs 32 and 34 within the cavity 28. The cavity 28
is not sealed (and the one-way air exhaust or exit valve 100 not
present), and thus when the volume of the cavity 28 is reduced air
is discharged in a forward direction towards the instep portion 22
and toe portion 24 and through the upper sole 18 as shown in FIG.
4, which provides overall stability to the shoe and enhances the
lift and fresh air feeling felt by the wearer.
[0054] FIG. 5 shows the air flow depicted in FIG. 4 with arrows in
one embodiment within the shoe 10 through a channel structure 82
and channel structure 84 to aeration channels 86 in the instep
portion 22 and toe portion 24 of the shoe 10. FIG. 6 illustrates an
embodiment with the upper sole 18 includes a plurality of openings
18a to further facilitate the flow of air within the shoe 10.
[0055] FIG. 7 illustrates another embodiment of a ventilated shoe
of the present invention. In this embodiment an air pump 90 is
provided in the cavity 28 in the heel portion 20, rather than the
cavity 28 itself in conjunction with the one way valve 100 acting
in a similar manner as described above. The air pump 90 is made of
a conventional construction well known to persons skilled in the
art and is not described in detail here. The air pump 90 is
connected to the one-way air suction valve 92 as shown in FIG. 7
and is also connected to the one-way air exhaust valve 100 also as
shown in FIG. 7. The one-way air suction valve 92 is adjacent to
the air channel 82 and the air channel 84, although an intermediate
connecting channel 94 can be provided to connect the air channels
82 and 84 to the one-way air suction valve 92.
[0056] When the shoe 10 is used for walking, air enters the shoe
adjacent to the where the user's ankle and leg are near to the shoe
10 or at or near the upper 14. The air flows through the upper sole
18 including through the openings 18a in the upper sole 18 to the
aeration channels 86 on the lower 16 of the shoe 10. Air then flows
to the air channels 82 and 84 to the one-way suction valve 92. The
air then enters the air pump 90 and is expelled out the one way air
exhaust valve 100 to the exterior of the shoe 10 as depicted
schematically in FIG. 7 by arrow 104. In one or more embodiments, a
waterproof ventilation valve 102 is provided on the exterior of the
shoe 10 as shown in FIG. 7 to further inhibit water or other debris
from entering the shoe 10 or cavity 28.
[0057] The air pump 90 operates so that when it is compressed, such
as by a wearer's foot while walking, the air pump 10 is compressed
which forces the air in the air pump 90 out through the valve 100.
When the air pump 90 expands, such as when the wearer lifts his
foot and heel during a walking stride, air flows into the air pump
90 through the one-way air suction valve 92. Therefore, while
walking at even a normal pace, the shoes and thus the feet of the
individual wearing the inventive shoes are ventilated with fresh
air. Alternatively, the air pump 90 could include a small
thermoelectric device 91 to remove heat (or cold) and humidity from
the inside of the shoe.
[0058] FIG. 8 illustrates an embodiment which includes a lower sole
150, made from open cell foam or equivalent materials well known to
persons skilled in the art, positioned between the upper sole 18
and the aeration channels 86 to further facilitate the flow of air
within the shoe 10 with the upper sole 18 having a plurality of
openings 18a as shown in FIG. 8. Alternatively, the lower sole 150
could be made of generally air impervious material having one or
more large holes for air to pass from the lower 16 up through the
upper sole 18.
[0059] FIG. 9 illustrates a second embodiment sport shoe 200 with
an upper portion 202 and sole 204, wherein the sole 204 comprises
an outsole 206, and a midsole 208. Referring to FIG. 10, the
outsole 206 is attached to the midsole 208, together forming a heel
209. The midsole 208 includes a first part 210 and a second part
212. The first part 210 of the midsole 208 is designed to reside
substantially under the heel of a wearer, while the second part 212
supports the remainder of the wearer's foot.
[0060] Referring to FIG. 11A, a cross section of the sports shoe
200, outsole 206, midsole 208 and related structures are shown in
an uncompressed state. Here, the first part 210 of the midsole 208
is disposed above and engaged by a series of springs 214. The
bottoms of the springs 214 engage the outsole 206. The second part
212 of the midsole 208 engages the outsole 206. In this manner,
downward pressure by a wearer's heel is distributed across the
springs 214. FIG. 11A also illustrates the cavity 216 housing the
springs 214, enclosed by the first part 210 and second part 212 of
the midsole 208, and the outsole 206.
[0061] Referring to FIG. 11B, the outsole 206, midsole 208 and
related heel 209 structures are shown in a compressed state. In
this state the springs 214 are compressed, reducing the volume of
the cavity 216. The cavity 216 is preferably obscured from view by
the outsole 206 forming a sidewall 220 around the heel 209 portion
of the shoe 200. Preferably the springs 214 are compression springs
wherein the working distance between the minimum operational state
and maximum operational state is about 6 mm. Optionally, an insole
213 may be installed inside the shoe over the midsole 208.
[0062] As the springs 214 compress and cavity 216 volume decreases,
the outsole 206 sidewall 220 folds together. The outsole 206 has a
bottom pad 222 connected to the springs 214. The bottom pad 222
makes surface contact while the shoe is under a wearer's
weight.
[0063] In order to ensure vertical movement of the springs 214 and
minimize lateral displacement of the outsole 206 relative to the
midsole 208, the outsole 206 comprises a connecting portion 224
between the sidewall 220 and horizontal pad 222. As the sidewall
220 deflects downward relative to the bottom pad 222, the
connecting portion 224 folds inward upon itself, sandwiching the
bottom pad 222 within the sidewall 220 preventing lateral
displacement of the heel 209. The material comprising the
connecting portion 224 is resiliently deformable and is disposed in
the outsole 206 between the sidewall 220 and bottom pad 222.
[0064] Referring back to FIGS. 9 and 10, an air passageway 217
releases the air from the heel 209. In a preferred embodiment the
air passageway 217 comprises a one-way valve 102 (as illustrated in
FIG. 7) which expels air, and prevents air, liquid or other debris
from entering back into the heel 209. A thermo-electric cooling
(and/or heating) device 219 may be installed in the sole to remove
heat and humidity and preserve the wearer's comfort.
[0065] The outsole 206 is preferably abrasion resistant rubber
material. The bottom pad 222 of the heel 209 may be of a softer
rubber, such that the bottom pad 222 itself compresses to some
extent under the wearer's weight. The first part 210 of the midsole
208 comprises a rigid material, preferably thermoplastic
polyurethane, and may include additives such as silica based or
other nanoparticles to increase dimensional stability. The second
part 212 of the midsole 208 is of a very lightweight material,
preferably ethylene-vinyl-acetate.
[0066] FIGS. 12 through 15 illustrate another embodiment of a
resilient shoe sole 500. In this embodiment the resilient sole 500
comprises a midsole 502, an upper foundation 504, and an outsole
506. A heel cavity 508 is disposed in the sole 500, and a cap 510
may cover the heel cavity 508. While the example illustrations show
a single heel cavity 508 in the sole 500, it is contemplated that
the sole 500 may have additional cavities [not shown] in other
locations, and also that the heel cavity 508 may be divided into
more than the single heel cavity 508 shown. It is also contemplated
that the midsole 502 may be made of softer materials than the
outsole 506, such as ethylene vinyl acetate, while the cap 510 may
be made of harder materials, for example thermoplastic
polyurethane.
[0067] In the exemplary embodiment, the heel cavity 508 may house
one or more springs 512. As shown in the figures, a larger spring
512 is seated behind two smaller springs 512 to add support and
stability to the sole 500. It is also contemplated that either a
single spring 512 or additional springs [not shown] may be
incorporated into the sole 500, including in other areas of the
sole 500. Alternatively, springs 512 may be omitted altogether. In
one embodiment, the spring(s) 512 may have an ideal elasticity of
between 50 to 700 lb/ft.sup.2.
[0068] Trampoline-like rebound in the sole 500 is achieved by the
structure of the outsole 506. In addition to other structures,
e.g., springs, the outsole 506 comprises a platform 514 and a
sidewall 516. The sidewall 516 may be substantially rigid and
extend around the heel cavity 508. In this manner, it may be
designed to form the periphery of the sole's 500 heel area. The
platform 514, while ideally made of resilient material, may be
substantially rigid due to its thickness. The pressure required to
move the platform 514 relative to the sidewall 516 determines the
amount of resiliency and rebound in the sole 500. The strength of
that resiliency is governed by a connector 520 connecting the
platform 514 and sidewalls 516, and by the distance the platform
514 must travel so that both the platform 514 and side wall 516
encounter a common walking surface.
[0069] Referring to FIG. 16, the connector 520 has a predetermined
length 522 as measured from the perimeter wall 526 of the platform
514, and the inner, substantially vertical surface 528 of the
sidewall 516, and a predetermined thickness 524, as measured from a
top surface 530 of the connector 520 to a bottom surface 532 of the
connector 520. While the length 522 and thickness 524 determine the
force necessary to deform the connector 520, the size of the
platform 514 perimeter wall 526 extends below the sidewall 516
determines the amount of rebound achieved by the sole 500.
[0070] The thickness 524 determines the shock absorbing properties
of the sole 500 and the ability of the sole 500 to deflect upward
when compressed on a down step. An increased thickness 524 requires
more weight for full deflection. The optimum operational size for
the thickness 524 is between 1 mm and 10 mm. The length 522
determines the amount of rebound in the sole 500 after deflection.
It operates like a rubber band or sling shot, developing more
propulsion the longer the deformable area 520 stretches. The
optimum operational size for the length 522 portion of the
deformable area 520 is between 1 mm and 10 mm.
[0071] The platform 514 perimeter wall 526 is used to govern the
maximum amount of deflection in the sole 500. Deflection ends once
the sidewall 516 of the sole 500 reaches the surface on which the
platform 514 rests. The optimum operational height for the
perimeter wall 526 is between 2 mm and 25 mm.
[0072] Referring back to FIGS. 12 and 13, in a resting position,
the connector 520 of the outsole 506 maintains the platform 514 in
a fully extended position. The connector 520 may simply be a
portion of the material comprising the outsole 506. In alternative
embodiments, the connector 520 may be made of material having an
elasticity differing from the platform 516, sidewall 518, or both.
Referring again to FIGS. 14 and 15, in a deformed position, the
connector 520 of the outsole 506 is stretched such that the
platform 514 is deflected upward into the cavity 508 until the
sidewalls 516 of the outsole 506 reach the surface on which the
platform 514 rests. It is contemplated that in certain embodiments
the platform 514 may deflect only partially upward into the cavity
508 as shown in FIG. 14. Additionally, while the figures show a
substantially planar connector 520 when the platform 520 is in a
deflected state, it is contemplated that due to the elastic nature
of the connector 520 it may deform into a curved or "S" shape when
the platform 514 deflects into the cavity 508.
[0073] The ratio of the thickness 524, length 522, and the
perimeter wall 526 height (and the resiliency of the spring and
rubber material) have different measurements in various shoe
designs: For example, it is anticipated dress shoes will be
designed with maximum flexibility due to their low-impact use.
Casual shoes are expected to have a middle range of flexibility for
repeated impact during walking. Finally, sports or running shoes
will have the lowest flexibility due to the great force of impact
from sports activities. In some embodiments, the connector 520 may
also be of varied size and shape due to shoe size and whether
intended for male or female use. For instance, a size seven women's
shoe might be calibrated for around 120 lbs of compression, while a
men's size eleven shoe might be calibrated for 200 or 250 lbs on
average.
[0074] Referring to FIGS. 17 and 18, the sole 500 is shown in an
uncompressed state incorporated into a sports shoe upper 534. In
this embodiment, the deformable area [not shown] would be
configured with a greater thickness 524, length 522, or a
combination of the two. The platform 514 perimeter wall 526 will
have a predetermined height adapted to confer maximum stability to
the shoe, which is intended for substantial lateral movement and
high impact. In one embodiment, the resilient sole 500 may have a
window (not shown) permitting observers to see the inner workings
of the sole 500.
[0075] Referring to 19 through 22, a spring-less dress shoe
embodiment of the resilient sole 500 is shown. Referring to FIGS.
19 and 20, as in other embodiments, the connector 520 in a resting
state preserves the platform 514 in a position substantially lower
than the remainder of the outsole 506. Referring to FIGS. 21 and
22, as the sole 500 is compressed the deformable portion 520 allows
the platform 514 to deflect upward into the heel cavity.
[0076] Also shown in this embodiment is a pneumatic cooling
arrangement designed to take advantage of the changing volume of
the heel cavity 508. A one-way valve 536 in the outsole 506 causes
air to leave the heel cavity 508 when compressed. As the heel
cavity 508 volume increases, air enters through a series of portals
538 in the sole 500. In this manner a constant flow of cooling air
is achieved. It is anticipated that the pneumatic cooling
arrangement may be incorporated into casual and sports shoes as
well as the illustrated embodiment. It is also anticipated that the
heel cavity 508 of the illustrated dress shoe embodiment may
include a spring [not shown].
[0077] The structure of the resilient shoe sole 500 having been
described, its operation will now be discussed.
[0078] After inserting a foot into a shoe having the resilient shoe
sole 500, and lacing or otherwise fastening the foot therein, a
wearer may stand, walk, jog or run in any customary manner. On a
down step, as the outsole 506 approaches the ground, the platform
514 encounters a surface. As the wearer's weight is brought to bear
against the shoe sole 500, the deformable area 520 begins to
deform, allowing the platform 514 to depend upward into the cavity
508 of the shoe sole 500.
[0079] As discussed, the height of the edge 526 of the platform
514, the thickness of the clip 524 and the width of the lip 522 are
predetermined to create a calibrated resistance depending on the
weight of the user and the purpose of the shoe. In addition to the
dimensions of the edge 526 and deforming area 520, it is
anticipated that choice of materials may play a role in calibrating
the shoe sole 500. Although rubber is one preferred material,
rubber stock of differing elasticity may be used to strengthen or
weaken the deformable area 520 as necessary. Other materials having
resilient characteristics are also contemplated.
[0080] While the present invention has been described with regards
to particular embodiments, it is recognized that additional
variations of the present invention may be devised by persons
skilled in the art without departing from the inventive concepts
disclosed herein. By way of example, although the preferred
embodiments have been shown and described in terms of men's casual
or dress shoes, or sports shoes, the invention as claimed may apply
to all types of shoes and even open-toed or sandals and other
variations of footwear.
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