U.S. patent application number 13/546166 was filed with the patent office on 2013-01-10 for running shoe having a progressive compression attachment.
Invention is credited to Steven Rosen.
Application Number | 20130008052 13/546166 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 47437783 |
Filed Date | 2013-01-10 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130008052 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Rosen; Steven |
January 10, 2013 |
Running Shoe Having a Progressive Compression Attachment
Abstract
A cushioning attachment for shoes including athletic shoes and,
in particular, running shoes includes two component features: a
cushioning feature, and a resilient/traction feature. In addition,
the cushioning attachment can include a securing feature for
securing the device to the outsole of the shoe of a wearer. In the
cushioning attachments, the cushioning feature is typically a first
layer of the attachment while the resilient/traction feature is
typically a second layer of the attachment. The attachment can also
include a heel addition layer attached to the top of the first
layer.
Inventors: |
Rosen; Steven; (Davie,
FL) |
Family ID: |
47437783 |
Appl. No.: |
13/546166 |
Filed: |
July 11, 2012 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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11924792 |
Oct 26, 2007 |
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13546166 |
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60855714 |
Oct 30, 2006 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
36/87 ;
36/132 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A43B 1/0009 20130101;
A43B 13/122 20130101; A43B 5/18 20130101; A43B 13/187 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
36/87 ;
36/132 |
International
Class: |
A43B 5/18 20060101
A43B005/18; A43B 1/14 20060101 A43B001/14; A43B 7/32 20060101
A43B007/32; A43B 1/10 20060101 A43B001/10 |
Claims
1. A combination of an athletic shoe having a sole, which athletic
shoe is suitable for use in at least one of running and jogging,
and an attachment which is capable of providing for an increase in
the progressive compression of the athletic shoe when worn, which
attachment comprises (a) a first layer comprising a progressive
compression providing material, which first layer has a shape
corresponding to the sole of the athletic shoe and has a thickness
not greater than about 2 inches and which is tapered so as to
provide a narrower portion at both the front, toe, end of the
attachment and the rear, heal, end of the attachment; (b) a second
layer attached to the first layer; and (c) securing means for
attaching the attachment to the shoe such that the attachment will
not detach from the shoe when a person wearing the shoe is running
or jogging, the securing means comprising at least one strap; and
wherein the first layer also includes a curved portion at the
front, toe, end of the attachment and a curved portion at the rear,
heal, end of the attachment such that a portion of the second layer
is not in contact with the ground during a running step when the
shoe is being worn.
2. The combination according to claim 1 wherein the shoe is a
running shoe.
3. The combination according to claim 1 wherein the narrowed
tapered portion of the first layer at the front end is about 2
inches, and at the rear end is about 1 inch.
4. The combination according to claim 1 wherein the progressive
compression providing material is a closed cell cellular
material.
5. The combination according to claim 1 wherein the first layer
further includes at least one reinforcement layer attached to each
side of the progressive compression providing material.
6. The combination according to claim 5 wherein the at least one
reinforcement layer comprises nylon fabric.
7. The combination according to claim 1 wherein the curved portion
at the front end of the first layer is not less than 0.5 inch from
the front end of the attachment, and the curved portion at the rear
end is not less than 0.25 inches from the rear end of the
attachment.
8. The combination according to claim 1 wherein the second layer
comprises a solid rubber material.
9. The combination according to claim 1 wherein the securing means
(c) comprises a hook and loop fastener attachment means.
10. The combination according to claim 1 wherein the securing means
(c) comprises a framework having a shape with a toe section and a
heel section, where the toe section and the heel section provide a
means for attaching the attachment onto the shoe.
11. The combination according to claim 1, wherein the securing
means (c) comprises two straps for attaching the attachment to a
foot.
12. The combination according to claim 1 wherein the progressive
compression providing material comprises a polyethylene, a
polyvinyl chloride, a polychloroprene, a nitrile, a
nitrile-butadiene a urethane, a latex, a polyethylene-vinyl acetate
material, a polyvinyl chloride-nitrile material, a vinyl-nitrile
material, a nitrile-butadiene material, Duralon.RTM. or mixtures
thereof.
13. The combination according to claim 1 wherein the progressive
compression providing material comprises at least one polymer,
which is in its viscoelastic state between the temperatures of 10 F
and 120 F, and which has been blown into a closed-cell cellular
material.
14. The combination according to claim 1 wherein the progressive
compression providing material comprises at least one polymer,
which is in its viscoelastic state between the temperatures of 10 F
and 120 F, and which has been blown into a closed-cell cellular
material.
15. The combination according to claim 1 wherein the second layer
comprises two or more pieces of material that together form the
desired shape of the second layer.
16. The combination according to claim 7 wherein the curved portion
of the first layer at the front end is not less than 1 inch, and at
the rear end is not less than 0.5 inches.
17. A combination of an athletic shoe having a sole, which athletic
shoe is suitable for use in at least one of running and jogging,
and an attachment which is capable of providing for an increase in
the progressive compression of the athletic shoe when worn, which
attachment comprises (a) a first layer comprising a progressive
compression providing material, which first layer has a shape
corresponding to the sole of the athletic shoe and has a thickness
not greater than about 2 inches and which is tapered so as to
provide a narrower portion at both the front, toe, end of the
attachment and the rear, heal, end of the attachment; (b) a second
layer attached to the first layer; (c) securing means for attaching
the attachment to the shoe such that the attachment will not detach
from the shoe when a person wearing the shoe is running or jogging;
and (d) an anti-sliding device that is capable of decreasing
outward lateral sliding of the shoe when worn by a person; and
wherein the first layer also includes a curved portion at the
front, toe, end of the attachment and a curved portion at the rear,
heal, end of the attachment such that a portion of the second layer
is not in contact with the ground during a running step when the
shoe is being worn.
18. The combination according to claim 17 wherein the anti-sliding
device comprises a piece of material attached to an outside edge of
the first layer of the attachment.
19. A combination of an athletic shoe having a sole, which athletic
shoe is suitable for use in at least one of running and jogging,
and an attachment which is capable of providing for an increase in
the progressive compression of the athletic shoe when worn, which
attachment comprises (a) a first layer comprising a progressive
compression providing material, which first layer has a shape
corresponding to the sole of the athletic shoe and has a thickness
not greater than about 2 inches and which is tapered so as to
provide a narrower portion at both the front, toe, end of the
attachment and the rear, heal, end of the attachment; (b) a heel
addition layer comprising a solid rubber material having thickness
of about 1/16'' to about 1/2'', which heel addition layer is
attached to the top of the first layer at the heel end thereof; (c)
a second layer attached to the bottom of the first layer; and (d)
securing means for attaching the attachment to the shoe such that
the attachment will not detach from the shoe when a person wearing
the shoe is running or jogging; and wherein the first layer also
includes a curved portion at the front, toe, end of the attachment
and a curved portion at the rear, heal, end of the attachment such
that a portion of the second layer is not in contact with the
ground during a running step when the shoe is being worn.
20. The combination according to claim 19 wherein the heel addition
layer is circular, oval, square or H-shaped.
Description
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S.
application Ser. No. 11/924,792 filed Oct. 26, 2007, and claims
priority under 35 USC 119 from provisional U.S. Application Ser.
No. 60/855,714 entitled "A Progressive Compression Attachment for
Shoes" by Steven E. Rosen, filed Oct. 30, 2006, both of which are
incorporated by reference in their entirety for all purposes.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] In 2004, nearly 500 million pairs of athletic shoes were
sold in the U.S. In addition, there have been a number of studies
looking at the impact of shoes on injuries in runners.
[0003] The present invention relates to shoes and, in particular,
to cushioning attachments used in combination with shoes, such as
athletic shoes and running shoes.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0004] Among other aspects, the invention relates to cushioning
attachments for shoes including athletic shoes and, in particular,
running shoes.
[0005] The cushioning attachments of this invention include two
component features: a cushioning feature, and a resilient/traction
feature. In addition, the cushioning attachment can include a
securing feature for securing the device to the outsole of the shoe
of a wearer.
[0006] In the cushioning attachments of this invention, the
cushioning feature is typically a first layer of the attachment
while the resilient/traction feature is typically a second layer of
the attachment. The first layer of the attachment can also include
a heel addition layer.
[0007] In one embodiment, the invention relates to a cushioning
attachment having a shape suitable for attaching to the outsole of
a shoe, where the attachment comprises:
a. a first upper layer comprising a cushioning material; b. a
second lower layer comprising a resilient material; c. a securing
means for permanently or removably attaching the cushioning
attachment to a shoe.
[0008] In another embodiment, the invention relates to a cushioning
attachment having a shape suitable for attaching to the outsole of
a shoe comprising:
a. a first upper layer comprising a cushioning polymeric material;
b. a second lower layer comprising a resilient material; c. a
securing means for attaching the attachment to a shoe.
[0009] In still another embodiment, the invention relates to a
cushioning system for an athletic shoe comprising:
a. a first upper layer comprising a cellular rubber material; b. a
second lower layer comprising a solid rubber material; c. a
securing means for attaching the cushion system to an athletic
shoe.
[0010] In another embodiment, the invention relates to a cushioning
attachment for a shoe comprising:
a. a first upper layer comprising an anti-fatigue material; b. a
second lower layer comprising a wear resistant material; c. a
securing means for attaching the attachment to an outsole of a
shoe.
[0011] In yet another embodiment, the invention relates to an
attachment to be worn on the sole of a shoe and which is capable of
providing for an increase in the progressive compression of the
shoe when worn, which attachment comprises
a. a first layer comprising a progressive compression providing
material; b. a second layer which is in contact with the ground
when a shoe having the attachment attached thereto is worn by a
person; and c. securing means for attaching the attachment to an
outsole of a shoe such that the attachment will not detach from the
shoe when a person wearing the shoe with the attachment is
jogging.
[0012] In another aspect, the invention relates to the combination
of a cushioning attachment and a shoe to which it is attached.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0013] FIGS. 1a-c illustrate one embodiment of an attachment device
according to the invention;
[0014] FIG. 2 illustrates one embodiment of the invention as
attached to a running shoe;
[0015] FIG. 3 illustrates one example of the invention where the
second layer of the device comprises more than one piece;
[0016] FIGS. 4a and 4b illustrate alternative securing means for
the device;
[0017] FIGS. 5a and 5b illustrate embodiments of an anti-sliding
feature suitable for use with the device; and
[0018] FIGS. 6a-c illustrate another suitable securing means for
the device.
[0019] FIGS. 7a-b illustrate the use of the heel addition layer
located on top of the first layer of the attachment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
A. The Cushioning Feature
[0020] One feature of the cushioning attachments of this invention
is a cushioning feature that is typically a first layer of the
device. The first layer comprises a material capable of providing a
cushioning effect for the foot of a wearer when the attachment is
attached to the bottom of the shoe.
[0021] Two primary considerations in connection with the first
layer are (i) the material of construction and (ii) the thickness
of the first layer.
[0022] A first consideration for the first layer is the material of
construction:
[0023] In an example of a suitable material, the first layer can
comprise a cushioning polymeric material. By "cushioning polymeric
material" it is meant a material comprising at least one polymer,
which polymer is in its viscoelastic, or rubbery, state between the
temperatures of 10 F and 120 F, preferably at ambient
temperature.
[0024] The cushioning polymeric material can comprises copolymers
such as block copolymers and random copolymers, modified polymers
or even blends of two or more polymers.
[0025] In one exemplary embodiment of the invention, the cushioning
polymeric material includes those polymers which have been blown
into a closed-cell cellular material.
[0026] Specific examples of suitable cushioning polymeric materials
include one or more of foamed ethylene vinyl acetate, foamed
polyurethane, foamed polyvinlychloride-polyacrylonitrile copolymer
or foamed elastomeric polypropylene.
[0027] One example of a suitable commercially available material is
sold under the trademark of Duralon.RTM..
[0028] The invention also includes the use of first layers which
comprise cellular materials. The cellular material can be either an
open-cell cellular material or a closed cell cellular materials, in
many instances, closed cell materials can be preferred.
[0029] The cellular material can be any cellular material
recognized in the art, with cellular foam materials being a
specific example of a suitable cellular material.
[0030] Specific examples of suitable cellular material include
polyethylenes, polyvinyl chlorides, polychloroprenes, nitriles,
nitrile-butadienes, urethanes, latex materials, and mixtures
thereof.
[0031] Other examples of suitable cellular materials include
polyethylene-vinyl acetate materials, polyvinyl chloride-nitrile
materials, vinyl-nitrile materials, and nitrile-butadiene
materials
[0032] In addition, the cellular material can comprise a rubber
material. Suitable rubbers can include both natural and man-made
rubbers. Specific examples of suitable rubber include, but are not
limited to neoprene rubbers, nitrile rubbers, natural rubbers,
styrene-butadiene rubbers, and ethylene propylene-diene
rubbers.
[0033] In certain embodiments of the invention, suitable materials
for use in connection with the first layer include those materials
having an elastic modulus (compressibility), which is measured in
megapascals (MPa) that is not greater than 1 MPa. In other
embodiments, the first layer comprises materials having an elastic
modulus not greater than 0.9 MPa, or even no greater than 0.8
MPa.
[0034] In addition, the first layer can comprise materials having
an elastic modulus not less than 0.6 MPa, and even, not less than
0.5 MPa or, even still not less than 0.4 MPa.
[0035] The invention also envisions the use of first layers which
comprise materials having a compression deflection of not greater
than 0.7 according to ASTM D575. Moreover, in certain embodiments
of the invention, the use of materials having a compression
deflection of not greater than 0.5 according to ASTM D575 can be
employed.
[0036] In addition, the first layer can employ those materials
having a compression deflection of not less than 0.2 according to
ASTM D575. Moreover, the use of materials having a compression
deflection of not less than 0.1 according to ASTM D575 can be
employed.
[0037] The compression deflection of suitable materials employed in
the first layer can also be characterized according to ASTM D1056.
In this regard, the use of cellular materials having a compression
deflection of not greater than 30 psi according to ASTM D1056 can
be employed. In other embodiments, the use of cellular materials
having a compression deflection of not greater than 20 psi
according to ASTM D1056 can be employed. In still other
embodiments, the use of materials having a compression deflection
of not greater than 17 psi according to ASTM D1056 can be
employed.
[0038] The invention also includes embodiments wherein the material
for the first layer has a compression deflection of not less than 9
psi according to ASTM D1056. In addition, the attachment of the
invention includes embodiments where the material for the first
layer has a compression deflection of not less than 6 psi according
to ASTM D1056. Still other embodiments employ materials having a
compression deflection of not less than 4 psi according to ASTM
D1056.
[0039] In addition, additives such as internal lubricants (or
plasticizers) and mineral fillers can be introduced into the
polymer in order to modify or improve one or more property of the
polymer. Specific examples of suitable additives include carbon and
silica fillers.
[0040] Additional suitable materials for use in connection with the
first layer include those materials previously employed in an
"anti-fatigue" environment, e.g., anti-fatigue pads, mats, runners
and the like. In this regard, anti-fatigue mats are designed to
make workers more comfortable when they must stand on their feet
for many consecutive hours. Anti-fatigue mats offer more cushioning
not only for comfort but also to improve circulation and absorb
shock, helping to reduce muscle tension, aches, and general
fatigue.
[0041] Suitable materials include those rubber materials-both
natural and man-made-materials employed in connection with
anti-fatigue mats and the like. Examples of such materials include
natural rubbers, nitrile rubbers and modified nitrile rubbers which
are recognized in the art. Specific examples of suitable
anti-fatigue materials are sold under the Nitricell.RTM. trade name
from the Wearwell Company.
[0042] As can be seen, the first layer can comprise a variety of
cushioning materials. In fact, the first layer can comprise any
material capable of providing the desired progressive compression
function when the attachment device is attached to a shoe and worn
by a user.
[0043] The term "progressive compression" in the context of this
invention relates to those materials capable of providing the
desired cushioning effect for the wearer by compression of the
first layer progressively over the course of a step, e.g., a
running step, i.e., the planting of the foot in stride, the rolling
of the foot as the opposite foot swings forward and the lifting of
the foot at the completion of the running step.
[0044] However, it is also preferred that the desired cushioning
material is not overly soft as overly soft materials can (i) cause
instability, increasing the risk of loss-of-balance as well as
adverse effects on overall body posture during use and/or (ii)
negate all or part of the progressive compression effect by
collapsing too quickly thus transferring force more rapidly to the
joints of the wearer.
[0045] One specific example of a suitable material for use in the
first layer is Ensolite.RTM. available from Armacell LLC. Ensolite
is a PVC/NPR polymer having the following characteristics:
[0046] 25% Compression Resistance (psi), ASTM D-1056, 5.0 to
8.0
[0047] 50% Compression Set (%), ASTM D-1056, 25 max.
[0048] Density (lb/ft.3), ASTM D-1056, 6.5 to 8.5
[0049] Water Absorption (lb/ft2), ASTM D-1667, 0.1 max.
[0050] Tensile (psi), ASTM D-412, 80 min.
[0051] Elongation (%), ASTM D-412, 100 min.
[0052] C-Tear Strength (lbs/in.) ASTM D-624 Die C 10 min.
[0053] Temperature Use: ASTM D-1056 Cold Crack -20 C. and
[0054] High 200 C.
[0055] A second consideration in connection with the first layer is
the thickness of the layer:
[0056] The thickness of the first layer is capable of affecting the
cushioning ability of the attachment. As such, the preferred
thickness can be dependent upon a number of factors including the
material of construction for the first layer, the type of shoe to
which the device is to be attached, the desired function of the
shoe for the wearer, the shape, height and weight of the wearer of
the shoe/attachment combination and even the environment and
weather conditions that the wearer is likely to face.
[0057] For example, a 300 lb man may prefer the use of an
attachment with a thicker first layer than a 100 lb woman.
Similarly, a runner who is running on harder surfaces may prefer a
different thickness than one who is running on relatively softer
surfaces.
[0058] While the exact thickness is not critical, the invention
includes a variety of embodiment including, but not limited to,
those embodiments where the first layer has a thickness which is
not greater than about 2 inches, as well as those embodiments where
the first layer has a thickness which is not greater than about 1.5
inches. In addition, the invention includes embodiments where the
first layer has a thickness which is not greater than about 1
inch.
[0059] The attachment according to the invention also includes
embodiments where the first layer has a thickness which is not less
than about 0.25 inches as well as embodiments where the first layer
has a thickness which is not less than about 0.15 inches and even
those embodiments where the first layer as a thickness which is not
less than about 0.1 inches.
[0060] Optimization of the thickness for any particular material of
construction would be within the purview of those skilled in the
art. For example, in optimizing the thickness of the first layer,
one should also consider the concept of bottoming out, i.e. the
bottoming out point for the material in question, and the
"densification strain" (bottoming out point as a percentage of
thickness). The invention envisions the use of densification
strains greater than 20%, greater than 30%, greater than 40%,
greater than 50%, greater than 60%, and even greater than 70% or
80%.
[0061] Moreover, the first layer can have a thickness which is
substantially the same throughout its entire length, or, in the
alternative, the thickness of the first layer can vary at one or
more places over the length of the layer.
[0062] In one embodiment, it is envisioned that the thickness of
the first layer is tapered at both the front, i.e., the toe end of
the device, and the rear, i.e., the heel end of the device. For
example, it has been found that tapering the first layer for the
first one to two inches from the front of the device and final one
to two inches from the rear of the device.
[0063] The first layer typically has a shape generally
corresponding to the shape of the sole of the shoe to which the
attachment is being attached. While the attachment finds particular
utility in connection with athletic shoes and, in particular,
running shoes, the attachment according to the invention can be
employed with any shoe where the wearer seeks greater cushioning
when the shoe is worn.
[0064] In addition, the first layer has a shape which is
substantially flat or it can be curved up at one or more of the
edges thereof.
[0065] The first layer can be a single unitary piece of material or
it can include multiple pieces of material that are attached
together to provide the desired shape. In this regard, the two or
more pieces can be attached either permanently by, e.g., an
adhesive material, or removably, e.g., Velcro attachment means. The
use of multiple pieces with removable attachment means would allow
for parts of the first layer subject to higher wear and tear to be
replaced without replacing the entire layer or entire
attachment.
[0066] In addition to the cushioning material, the first layer can
further include other features.
[0067] For example, the first layer can include one or more
reinforcement means attached to one or both sides of the cushioning
material. In certain embodiments, the use of a reinforcement layer
is capable of increasing the useful life for the first layer.
Specifically, the use of a reinforcement layer may decrease the
wear and tear on the first layer and thus, allow for an increase in
useful life for the attachment.
[0068] In this aspect of the invention, the first layer can include
a reinforcement layer on either or both of the top and bottom
thereof. Moreover, the reinforcement layer can comprise one or more
layers of material, however, in most situations, a single layer is
adequate.
[0069] The reinforcement layer can comprise any material that can
be effectively attached to the cushioning material and capable of
improving the durability of the cushioning material. For example,
the use of a reinforcement layer can improve the tensile or tear
resistance of the first layer. Specific examples of suitable
materials include fabric materials such as nylon, Dacron,
polyester, cotton, or mixtures thereof.
[0070] The reinforcement layers can be attached to the cellular
material by way of any technique recognized in the art of Suitable
techniques include the use of adhesive materials such as
polyurethane, acrylic, epoxy, and cyanoacrylate adhesives that are
recognized in the art.
[0071] The first layer can also optionally include a heel addition
layer (71 of FIGS. 7a and 7b) on the top, shoe-side, of the first
layer (70 of FIGS. 7a and 7b).
[0072] It has been discovered that, during a running step, the
center of the foot can effectively act as a fulcrum resulting in a
situation where the compression of the heel portion of the
attachment can be greater than the forefoot portion. This increased
compression can cause the heel of the shoe to be positioned lower
than the forefoot during a running step. Such a relationship can
lead to the repeated hyperextension of the knee and resulting knee
pain.
[0073] The heel addition layer comprises a material and has a shape
and size suitable to elevate the heel of the runner during a
running step. This arrangement can allow for the center of gravity
to be moved forward and transfer of some of the force of the step
to the forefoot. The level of the heel can be, but need not be,
raised to a level above the forefoot in order to decrease the force
on the heel portion of the attachment.
[0074] In this regard, the shape of the heel addition layer is
selected so as to preferably cover a significant portion of the
heel portion of the first layer. Specifically, the heel addition
layer can cover not less than about 30% of the heel portion of the
first layer behind the center (72 of FIG. 7a) of the first layer.
In other embodiments, the heel addition layer can cover not less
than 50%, not less than 70%, not less than 90% and the entirety of
the heel portion of the first layer behind the center.
[0075] The shape of the heel addition is not critical to its
function and can be a shape such as a circle, an oval, a square or
even an H-shape as shown in FIG. 7a. The use of an H-shape as shown
in the figure can allow for the improved placement of the rear
strap of the attachment.
[0076] One example of a typical suitable size of a heel addition
layer is about 3 inches in length and width. Of course, the size of
the heel addition is optimized to correspond to the size of the
attachment and the shoe to which it is attached. As to thickness,
suitable thicknesses are from about 1/16'' to about 1/2'' with
about 1/8'' to about 1/4'' being particularly suitable.
[0077] The material of construction for the heel addition layer is
not critical as long as it is firm enough to allow the heel to be
raised during a running step. Examples of suitable materials
include solid rubbers such as neoprene rubber.
B. The Resilient/Traction Feature
[0078] Another feature of the cushioning attachment device is a
resilient/traction feature that is typically a second layer of the
device.
[0079] Functions of the second layer are dependent on the shoe to
which the attachment is to be attached and the desired purpose of
that shoe. In this regard, the function can include one or more of
(i) providing for a more resilient surface, e.g., sole, in contact
with the ground, as compared to the first layer, when the
cushioning attachment device is attached to a shoe and worn by a
user, (ii) improving the resiliency of the device by protecting the
first layer from the wear and tear associated with wearing of the
attachment device, and (iii) improving the traction for a shoe when
the device is attached to the shoe.
[0080] The material of construction for the second layer is not
critical and can include any material capable of providing the
desired resiliency and/or traction effects.
[0081] Examples of suitable materials include rubbers and in
particular solid rubbers such as high carbon rubbers, and
cross-linked rubbers. In addition, the second layer can include
fillers or other additives which can increase the resilience of the
second layer. For example, where rubbers are employed, suitable
additives include carbon and silica fillers.
[0082] In addition, suitable materials include both new and
recycled materials. For example, one class of suitable materials is
recycled rubber materials including but, not limited to, recycled
automotive tires.
[0083] The overall shape of the second layer is similar to, but not
necessarily identical to the shape of the first layer. As discussed
above, the primary function of the second layer is to provide a
more resilient surface for the attachment device, as such, any
shape which is capable of providing the desired function can be
employed.
[0084] In this regard, the second layer can comprise a single
unitary piece of material or, in the alternative, two or more
pieces of material which form the desired shape of the attachment.
Specifically, the second layer can comprise two, three, four or
even more pieces of material.
[0085] Where two or more pieces are employed, it can be desirable
that the individual pieces having shapes which allow them to be
interconnected to form the desired shape of the attachment. Such an
arrangement allows for portions of the second layer which are
subjected to increased wear to be replaced without replacing the
entirety of the second layer. In one example of this feature, one
of the pieces of the second layer corresponds to the heel portion
of the attachment device.
[0086] The thickness of the second layer is not critical to the
invention as long as it does not adversely impact the resilience
function of the second layer or the cushioning function of the
first layer.
[0087] The attachment device of the present invention envisions the
use of a second layer having a thickness not greater than about 0.5
inches, even not greater than about 0.25 inches and still even not
greater than about 0.1 inches.
[0088] In this regard, the entire thickness of the second layer can
be provided by a single layer of material or by a laminate-like
arrangement of two or more layers of material.
[0089] While, as was the case with the first layer, the thickness
of the second layer can vary over the length of the device, in most
embodiments it is desirable that the second layer has substantially
the same thickness throughout the entire length of the layer.
[0090] The second layer can be attached to the first layer by any
technique recognized in the art as being effective in attaching the
materials in question together. More specifically, the two layers
can be attached by either removable attachment means such as Velcro
or more permanent attachment techniques such as adhesives. Suitable
adhesives include polyurethane, acrylic, epoxy, and cyanoacrylate
adhesives that are recognized in the art.
[0091] In one embodiment of the invention, the shape of the first
layer is modified so as to minimize, or even eliminate, contact
between the edges of the second layer and the ground. For example,
the first layer is designed so that when the attachment is attached
to a shoe that is subjected to a complete running step, i.e., the
planting of the foot in stride, the rolling of the foot as the
opposite foot swings forward and the lifting of the foot at the
completion of the running step, the toe edge of the second layer
does not touch the ground. Because the leading edges of the second
layer are not in contact with the ground, wear on the layer can be
reduced and the usage life of the layer prior to replacement can be
increased.
[0092] For example, the first layer can include an, at least
substantially, linear portion between a front portion and a rear
portion which are both curved. That is, the first layer comprised a
curved front, e.g., toe, portion, a middle linear portion, and a
curved, e.g., heel, portion.
[0093] In one example of this embodiment, the front portion is
curved for an amount not less than 0.5 inch, for example, about 1
inch, or about 1.5 inches or about 2 inches. In addition, the rear
portion is curved for an amount not less than 0.25 inches, for
example, about 0.5, about 0.75 or about 1 inch.
[0094] In another example of the embodiment, the curved portion of
the front and rear ends of the attachment do not touch the ground
during running except of a portion not greater than 1 inch above
the linear portion of the first layer.
[0095] In addition, the bottom surface of the second layer, i.e.,
the surface that is not attached to the first layer, can have a
pattern thereon, in order to enhance traction.
[0096] It is well known in the art of shoe design, that how well a
shoe needs to grip depends on purpose of the shoe. For example, a
shoe suitable for use in a cross country event run on a rainy day
may be different than that needed on a hard compacted surface.
Similarly, a basketball player may need an outsole that will grip
well when running, but not when they are pivoting.
[0097] The traction properties of a shoe, really a measure of the
friction between the bottom of the shoe and the
playing/running/walking surface, are directly related to the
materials used in the construction as well as the pattern on the
bottom of the second layer.
[0098] Suitable patterns include those currently being employed in
the art in connection with existing outsoles.
C. Securing of the Device to a Shoe
[0099] Another aspect of this invention relates to the ability to
securing the cushioning feature and the resilient/traction feature
to a desired shoe.
[0100] The precise securing means is not critical to the invention
as long as it is effective in securing the device to the desired
shoe. In this regard, suitable securing means include both
techniques for permanently attaching the device to the outsole of a
shoe and techniques for removably attaching the device to a shoe so
that the device is secured to the outsole of the shoe.
[0101] Specific examples of permanent attachment means include
adhesives such as polyurethane, acrylic, epoxy, and cyanoacrylate
adhesives that are recognized in the art. The adhesive can be used
to attach the device to the outsole of a desired shoe.
[0102] In addition, permanent attachment means can include
mechanical means suitable for attaching the device to the desired
shoes. Such mechanical means can include screws, e.g., nylon or
metal screws, or straps, to directly attach the device to the
outsole of a desired shoe.
[0103] Examples of suitable means for removably attaching the
device to a shoe include, but are not limited to, Velcro attachment
means, loop tensioning means, buckles, straps, laces and the
like.
[0104] For example, the removable attachment means suitable for use
with the cushioning attachment device can include one or more
straps for securing the device to the shoe of a wearer. One
specific example of such an arrangement includes two straps, a
first strap to attaching the cushioning attachment to the toe end
of a shoe and a second strap for attaching the attachment to the
heel section of a shoe. The straps can be attached by any means
recognized in the art such as, e.g., Velcro or buckles or the
like.
[0105] In another embodiment, the securing means comprises one or
more fabric straps or laces that are attached to the device and
which fabric straps or laces can be attached to an ankle of a
wearer. The portion of the securing means, which is attached to the
device, can comprise, for example, a strap that is attached to the
device. The strap, and in particular, a strap near the rear of the
device, that is directly attached to the device can extend
generally vertically from, or at an angle relative to, the first
and second layers of the device. The exact angle is not critical to
the invention, however it is preferred that the straps extend in
the general direction of the rear of the shoe.
[0106] In addition to the foregoing, the securing means can include
a framework having a shape with a toe section and a heel section,
where the toe section and the heel section provide a means for
attaching the attachment onto the shoe. This embodiment can further
include undercuts along a vertical rise in the heel section on the
inside of the heel section. This embodiment also includes suitable
means such as straps for connecting the device to a shoe. For
example, a plurality of Velcro straps can be employed to attach the
framework to a shoe.
D. The Shoe and Additional Optional Features
[0107] Another aspect of the invention relates to the combination
of the cushioning attachment and a shoe.
[0108] As discussed above, the cushioning attachment means can be
designed to be attached to any shoe where the wearer desires to
have a desired cushioning effect. Suitable shoes include any and
all types of athletic shoes. Since the cushioning effect can be
particularly useful in walking and jogging environment, running
shoes are particularly suitable for use with the cushioning system
of the invention.
[0109] In addition to the foregoing three features, the cushioning
device of the present invention can include additional optional
features.
[0110] For example, the device can include an anti-sliding feature
that is capable of decreasing lateral sliding of a shoe when the
attachment is attached to a shoe and worn by a person. In this
regard, the feature can be placed to prevent either inward or
outward sliding of a shoe depending on the needs of the user.
[0111] In this regard, it has been found that, particularly under
certain weather conditions, the outsole of the shoe may undesirably
slide along the surface of the first layer. The anti-slide feature
seeks to minimize and/or eliminate this sliding action.
[0112] One example of a suitable feature comprises a wedge shaped
material attached to an outside edge of the first layer of the
attachment when an attachment is attached to a shoe and worn by a
person. The shape of the wedge is selected so as to allow it to
prevent sliding of the shoe when the attachment is secured thereto.
For example, one preferred shape would direct the outward sliding
force of the shoe, downwards towards the first layer. An example of
the placement of such a shape to prevent outward sliding is
illustrated by FIGS. 5a and 5b. Of course, the device could
alternatively be placed on the other side to prevent inward sliding
of a shoe.
[0113] One example of a suitable anti-slide feature comprises a
wedge shaped material attached to an outside edge of the first
layer of the attachment when an attachment is attached to a shoe
and worn by a person. The material of construction of wedge shaped
material is not critical; however, for sake of cost efficiency and
convenience, it can comprise the same material of construction as
the first layer. However, it is within the scope of the invention
to employ a material of construction for the wedge which differs
from that of the first layer. Suitable materials of construction
can include plastic, wood or metals, depending on factors such as
cost and durability.
[0114] The anti-sliding feature can be removably attached to the
cushioning attachment by any suitable means, e.g., a Velcro strap.
The shape of the strap can be selected to more effectively secure
the anti-sliding device to the assembly. For example, the Velcro
strap can have any suitable shape, e.g., substantially L-shaped, so
as to attach to both the first layer and the securing means. In
another example of this feature, the Velcro strap can be C-shaped
where the lower portion of the strap extends across a significant
portion, greater than 50%, 60% or even 75% of the first layer to
which it is attached.
[0115] In addition, the anti-sliding feature can be attached to the
strap by suitable means, such as adhesive to more effective hold it
in place when the attachment device is attached to a shoe and worn
by a user.
[0116] FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate one embodiment of the invention. In
this embodiment, the attachment device 1 can be attached to shoe 2
as seen in FIG. 2.
[0117] The attachment device 1 includes first upper layer 10,
second lower layer 20 and securing means 30. The securing means
includes a Velcro securing means 31. The use of a generally
vertical strap as relating to the direction of the portion of the
strap that attaches to the first and second layers, relative to the
first and second layers is shown in FIGS. 1b and c. One example of
an alternative arrangement where the portion of the strap attached
to the first and second layer is attached at an angle 32 relative
to the first and second layers can be seen in FIGS. 1d-e where FIG.
1e is a bottom view of the device of FIG. 1d at a cross section
between the first and second layers.
[0118] As can be seen in FIG. 1c, the first upper layer 10 can
include reinforcement layers 11.
[0119] FIG. 3 illustrates a second layer 20 which comprises two
pieces 21 and 22.
[0120] FIGS. 4a and b illustrate two examples of suitable
mechanical attachment means 30' and 30'' for attaching the device
to a shoe 2.
[0121] FIGS. 5a and 5b illustrate two examples for an anti-sliding
wedge device arrangement for use in connection with the attachment.
The two examples both illustrate a wedge 41 and a securing means 42
for the wedge. As discussed previously, the wedge can be secured to
the attachment via suitable means such as Velcro, as illustrated in
FIGS. 5a-b.
[0122] FIGS. 6a-6c illustrate examples of another strap attachment
device suitable for use with a shoe. In each of the illustrated
embodiments, the strap 60 is attached by mean of Velcro 62, 63, 64.
The strap can comprise, for example, a nylon web.
[0123] In FIG. 6a, a portion of the strap 60 is "pinched" at one
side of the lateral strap 61. In this example, the other side of
the strap does not include the "pinch."Velcro areas 62 can either
be hook or loop Velcro as long as the attachment can be secured to
the shoe.
[0124] FIGS. 6b and 6c both illustrate a strap 60 with hook Velcro
63 and loop Velcro 64 with the primary difference between the
examples shown in the figures being the Velcro type and placement
as shown in the figures.
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