U.S. patent application number 14/211639 was filed with the patent office on 2014-09-18 for modular shoe systems and methods of using same.
The applicant listed for this patent is JAVANSCIENCE LLC. Invention is credited to Rami Hashish, Yuta Hyakusoku, Sachithra D. Samarawickrame.
Application Number | 20140259779 14/211639 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 51520729 |
Filed Date | 2014-09-18 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140259779 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Hashish; Rami ; et
al. |
September 18, 2014 |
Modular Shoe Systems and Methods of Using Same
Abstract
Modular shoe systems include an upper, an outsole attached to
the upper, and several midsole inserts. Each midsole insert is
positionable in overlying relationship with the outsole and can
operatively engage the outsole to form an assembled shoe. The
outsole can include a receptacle, such as a depression or opening,
configured to receive a protrusion in the midsole insert. Multiple
midsole pieces can be cooperatively engaged to form the midsole
insert. The midsole pieces are selected based on their properties
and the needs of the user. Methods for customizing a shoe include
selecting a midsole insert based on a property and positioning the
midsole insert in overlying relationship with the outsole to
operatively engage the midsole insert and outsole. The midsole
insert can be removed and a different midsole insert can be
selected and positioned based on another property. The midsole
insert(s) can be assembled using several midsole pieces.
Inventors: |
Hashish; Rami; (Long Beach,
CA) ; Samarawickrame; Sachithra D.; (Alhambra,
CA) ; Hyakusoku; Yuta; (Portland, OR) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
JAVANSCIENCE LLC |
Alhambra |
CA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
51520729 |
Appl. No.: |
14/211639 |
Filed: |
March 14, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61788269 |
Mar 15, 2013 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
36/100 ;
12/142R |
Current CPC
Class: |
A43B 7/144 20130101;
A43B 7/145 20130101; A43B 7/1465 20130101; A43B 13/125 20130101;
A43B 7/143 20130101; A43B 13/188 20130101; A43B 7/1435 20130101;
A43B 7/1425 20130101; A43B 13/36 20130101; A43B 13/26 20130101;
A43B 7/142 20130101; A43B 7/1445 20130101; A43B 7/148 20130101;
A43B 13/04 20130101; A43B 13/16 20130101; A43B 3/244 20130101; A43B
3/246 20130101; A43B 13/186 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
36/100 ;
12/142.R |
International
Class: |
A43B 3/24 20060101
A43B003/24 |
Claims
1. A modular shoe system, comprising: an upper; an outsole attached
to said upper, said outsole having an outwardly facing surface and
an opposed inner surface; and at least one midsole insert, wherein
said at least one midsole insert is positionable in overlying
relationship with said inner surface of said outsole, and wherein
said at least one midsole insert is configured to operatively
engage at least a portion of said outsole.
2. The modular shoe system of claim 1, wherein said at least one
midsole insert has a first face, a second opposing face, and a side
surface extending between said first face and said second face,
wherein said at least one midsole insert comprises at least one
protrusion extending from at least one of said second face and said
side surface; and wherein said outsole defines at least one
receptacle configured to receive said at least one protrusion.
3. The modular shoe system of claim 2, wherein said at least one
receptacle comprises at least one depression extending from said
inner surface toward said outwardly facing surface,
4. The modular shoe system of claim 2, wherein said at least one
receptacle comprises at least one opening extending from said inner
surface to said outwardly facing surface, wherein said protrusion
defines a third face distal of said second face, and wherein said
midsole insert comprises treads on at least a portion of said third
face of said at least one protrusion.
5. The modular shoe system of claim 1, wherein said at least one
midsole insert comprises a plurality of midsole inserts, wherein
each midsole insert has at least one property selected from the
group consisting of stiffness, cushioning, shock absorption,
heel-to-toe drop height, density, heel support, arch support, and
shape, and wherein at least one property of one midsole insert
differs from at least one property of at least one other midsole
insert.
6. The modular shoe system of claim 1, wherein said at least one
midsole insert comprises at least an upper layer comprising said
first face and a lower layer comprising said second face, wherein
said upper layer comprises a material having a first property,
wherein said lower layer comprises a material having second
property, and wherein said first property is different from said
second property.
7. The modular shoe system of claim 1, wherein said at least one
midsole insert comprises at least two separable midsole pieces that
are configured for selective engagement with each other to form
said at least one midsole insert.
8. The modular shoe system of claim 1, wherein said at least one
midsole insert is made of at least one material selected from the
group consisting of selected from the group consisting of
thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), thermoplastic elastomer (TPE),
polyurethane-based materials, open-cell polyurethane, ethylene
vinyl acetate co-polymer (EVA), leather, monofilament TPU-coated
mesh, nylon mesh, rubber, plastic, polymers, canvas, fabric, and
natural materials.
9. A modular shoe system, comprising: an upper; an outsole attached
to said upper, said outsole having an outwardly facing surface and
an opposed inner surface; and at least two separable midsole pieces
that are configured for selective engagement with each other to
form a midsole insert, wherein said midsole insert is positionable
in overlying relationship with said inner surface of said outsole
to form an assembled shoe.
10. The modular shoe system of claim 9, wherein the assembled shoe
is configured to be worn on a foot of a wearer, and wherein each
respective midsole piece is configured to support a corresponding
region of the foot.
11. The modular shoe system of claim 10, wherein said at least two
separable midsole pieces comprise at least one toe and ball support
piece, at least one arch support piece, and at least one heel
support piece.
12. The modular shoe system of claim 9, wherein each of said
plurality of midsole pieces has at least one property selected from
the group consisting of stiffness, cushioning, shock absorption,
shape, and density.
13. The modular shoe system of claim 9, wherein said midsole insert
is configured to operatively engage at least a portion of said
outsole.
14. The modular shoe system of claim 13, wherein said outsole
defines at least one receptacle, and wherein at least one of said
midsole pieces comprises a protrusion configured to extend into
said at least one receptacle when said midsole insert is positioned
in overlying relationship with said inner surface of said
outsole.
15. The modular shoe system of claim 13, wherein said outsole
defines at least one protrusion, and wherein at least one of said
midsole pieces comprises a receptacle configured to receive said at
least one protrusion of said insole when said midsole insert is
positioned in overlying relationship with said inner surface of
said outsole.
16. A method of customizing a shoe, comprising: providing a modular
shoe system, comprising: an upper, an outsole attached to said
upper, and a plurality of midsole inserts, each midsole insert
having at least one property, selecting a first midsole insert from
said plurality of midsole inserts based on at least one said
property of said first midsole insert; and positioning said
selected first midsole insert in overlying relationship with said
outsole such that said first midsole insert is operatively engaged
with at least a portion of said outsole.
17. The method of claim 16, further comprising: selecting a second
midsole insert from said plurality of midsole inserts based on at
least one said property of said second midsole insert that differs
from said at least one property of said first midsole insert;
disengaging said first midsole insert from said outsole; removing
said first midsole insert; and positioning said selected second
midsole insert in overlying relationship with said outsole such
that said second midsole insert is operatively engaged with at
least a portion of said outsole.
18. The method of claim 16, wherein said at least one property of
each said midsole insert is selected from the group consisting of
stiffness, cushioning, shock absorption, heel-to-toe drop height,
density, heel support, arch support, and shape.
19. The method of claim 16, wherein the modular shoe system
comprises at least two separable midsole pieces, and wherein the
step of selecting a first midsole insert comprises selectively
engaging said at least two separable midsole pieces to form said
first midsole insert.
20. The method of claim 17, wherein the modular shoe system
comprises at least two separable midsole pieces, and wherein the
step of selecting a second midsole insert comprises selectively
engaging said at least two separable midsole pieces to form said
second midsole insert.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a non-provisional of, and claims
priority to, U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/788,269, filed on
Mar. 15, 2013, which application is hereby incorporated by
reference in its entirety.
FIELD
[0002] Provided are modular shoe systems and methods of using the
same. More specifically, modular shoe systems are provided with
interchangeable midsole inserts, in order to allow a user to
customize the shoe-wearing experience.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Recently, much attention has been focused on the properties
of footwear, thereby allowing a user to select footwear based on
his foot type or shape, foot pathology, and/or desired use for the
footwear. For example, convenience stores offer users the ability
to have a computer analyze their foot type or shape (such as the
user's arch height) and select aftermarket insoles to accommodate
varying foot pathologies. Similarly, athletic shoes are sold in a
variety of styles, depending on the desired use for such shoes. A
user can thus select between a running shoe, a cross-training shoe,
a walking shoe, a hiking shoe, etc. Barefoot or minimalist shoes
have also been available to give a user a minimalist running or
walking experience.
[0004] However, with any of these options, a user is forced to
purchase a variety of different products (insoles or shoes, for
example), depending on the user's needs. In order to minimize the
excessive cost of investing in so many different products, users
often rely on a single product for all uses. A user might, for
example, purchase a walking shoe, and use the shoe while walking,
running and trail hiking, in order to avoid purchasing three
separate shoes. The single shoe may not offer the right type of
support, or may not have the right properties, for each of these
activities. This can result in significant injury to the user if
the shoe being used does not accommodate the user's foot shape,
foot pathologies, or the activity in which the user is engaged.
Similarly, in the abstract, an aftermarket insole may be desirable
to accommodate a user's foot shape or foot pathology. However, when
placed into different shoes, the insole may not provide the desired
comfort or support to the user, or may not fit into existing
shoes.
[0005] Thus, there is a need in the art for systems and methods
allowing footwear users to better customize their footwear
depending on their needs.
SUMMARY
[0006] In accordance with the purpose(s) of this invention, as
embodied and broadly described herein, this invention, in one
aspect, relates to modular shoe systems. In one embodiment, an
exemplary modular shoe system includes an upper, an outsole
attached to the upper, and at least one midsole insert. The outsole
can have an outwardly facing surface and an opposed inner surface.
The at least one midsole insert can be positionable in overlying
relationship with the inner surface of the outsole and can be
configured to operatively engage at least a portion of the
outsole.
[0007] In one embodiment, the outsole can define at least one
receptacle therein. The at least one midsole insert can have a
first face, a second opposing face and a side surface extending
between the first face and second face, and can comprise at least
one protrusion extending from the second face and/or the side
surface. The at least one protrusion can extend into the at least
one receptacle, to form an assembled shoe, In one embodiment, the
at least one receptacle can be a depression. In another embodiment,
the at least one receptacle in the outsole can be an opening.
[0008] According to other embodiments, a modular shoe system is
provided that comprises an upper and an outsole attached to the
upper. The outsole can have an outwardly facing surface and an
opposed inner surface. The shoe system can include at least two
separable midsole pieces configured for selective engagement with
each other to form a midsole insert. The midsole insert is
positionable in overlying relationship with the inner surface of
the outsole to form an assembled shoe. The assembled midsole insert
can also be configured for operative engagement with at least a
portion of the outsole. In some embodiments, each midsole piece can
be configured to support a region of the foot of a wearer of the
assembled shoe.
[0009] According to other embodiments, methods are provided for
customizing a shoe. The method includes providing a modular shoe
system having an upper, an outsole attached to the upper, and a
plurality of midsole inserts. Each midsole insert can have at least
one property. The method further includes selecting a first midsole
insert based on at least one property, and positioning the first
midsole insert in overlying relationship with the outsole such that
the first midsole is operatively engaged with at least a portion of
the outsole. The method can further include selecting a second
midsole insert based on a property that differs from the property
of the first midsole insert, disengaging the first midsole insert,
removing the first midsole insert, and positioning the second
midsole insert in overlying relationship with the outsole such that
the second midsole insert is operatively engaged with at least a
portion of the outsole. The method can include selecting at least
two separable midsole pieces, and selectively engaging them to form
one of the plurality of midsole inserts (such as the first or
second midsole insert).
[0010] Additional advantages will be set forth in part in the
description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the
description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. The
advantages of the invention will be realized and attained by means
of the elements and combinations particularly pointed out in the
appended claims. It is to be understood that both the foregoing
general description and the following detailed description are
exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the
invention, as claimed.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and
constitute a part of this specification, illustrate several aspects
of the invention and together with the description, serve to
explain the principles of the invention.
[0012] FIG. 1A is an exploded view of a modular shoe system,
showing a midsole insert, and an outsole attached to an upper,
according to one embodiment.
[0013] FIG. 1B is an assembled view of the modular shoe system of
FIG. 1A, showing the midsole insert positioned in mating
relationship with the outsole.
[0014] FIG. 2A is a top plan view of an upper and outsole of a
modular shoe system, according to one embodiment.
[0015] FIG. 2B is an elevational view of the medial side of the
upper and outsole of FIG. 2A.
[0016] FIG. 2C is an elevational view of the rear of the upper and
outsole of FIG. 2A.
[0017] FIG. 2D is an elevational view of the lateral side of the
upper and outsole of FIG. 2A.
[0018] FIG. 2E is a bottom plan view of the outsole of FIG. 2A.
[0019] FIG. 3A is an elevational view of the lateral side of a
midsole insert, according to one embodiment.
[0020] FIG. 3B is a bottom plan view of the midsole insert of FIG.
3A.
[0021] FIG. 4A is an elevational view of the lateral side of a
modular shoe system, according to one embodiment.
[0022] FIG. 4B is a bottom plan view of the modular shoe system of
FIG. 4A.
[0023] FIG. 5A is a top plan view of an assembled shoe of a modular
shoe system, according to one embodiment.
[0024] FIG. 5B is an elevational view of the medial side of the
assembled shoe of FIG. 5A.
[0025] FIG. 5C is an elevational view of the rear of the assembled
shoe of FIG. 5A.
[0026] FIG. 5D is an elevational view of the lateral side of the
assembled shoe of FIG. 5A.
[0027] FIG. 5E is a bottom plan view of the assembled shoe of FIG.
5A.
[0028] FIG. 6A is a bottom plan view of an outsole and midsole
insert of a modular shoe system, according to one embodiment.
[0029] FIG. 6B is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B' of
FIG. 6A.
[0030] FIG. 6C is a cross-sectional view taken along line C-C' of
FIG. 6A.
[0031] FIG. 6D is a cross-sectional view taken along line D-D' of
FIG, 6A,
[0032] FIG. 6E is a cross-sectional view taken along line E-E' of
FIG. 6A.
[0033] FIG. 7A is an elevational view of the lateral side of an
assembled shoe of a modular shoe system, according to yet another
embodiment.
[0034] FIG. 7B is a bottom plan view of the assembled shoe of FIG.
7A.
[0035] FIG. 8A is an elevational view of the lateral side of a
midsole insert of a modular shoe system, according to another
embodiment.
[0036] FIG. 8B is a bottom plan view of the midsole insert of FIG.
8A.
[0037] FIG. 9A is a bottom plan view of an outsole and midsole
insert of modular shoe system, according to one embodiment.
[0038] FIG. 9B is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B' of
FIG. 9A.
[0039] FIG. 9C is a cross-sectional view taken along line C-C' of
FIG. 9A.
[0040] FIG. 9D is a cross-sectional view taken along line D-D' of
FIG. 9A.
[0041] FIG. 9E is a cross-sectional view taken along line E-E' of
FIG. 9A.
[0042] FIG. 10 illustrates exemplary side profiles of a midsole
insert for use in a modular shoe system, according to another
embodiment.
[0043] FIG. 11A is an exploded view showing a plurality of midsole
pieces used to form a midsole insert and an outsole, according to
one embodiment.
[0044] FIG. 11B is a partial assembled view of a
partially-assembled midsole insert in overlying relationship with
the outsole of FIG. 11A.
[0045] FIG. 11C is an assembled view of an assembled midsole insert
in overlying relationship with the outsole of FIG. 11A.
[0046] FIG. 12 is a flow chart of exemplary methods for customizing
a shoe, according to various embodiments.
DESCRIPTION
[0047] The present invention may be understood more readily by
reference to the following detailed description, examples,
drawings, and claims, and their previous and following description.
However, before the present devices, systems, and/or methods are
disclosed and described, it is to be understood that this invention
is not limited to the specific devices, systems, and/or methods
disclosed unless otherwise specified, as such can, of course, vary.
It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for
the purpose of describing particular aspects only and is not
intended to be limiting.
[0048] As used in the specification and the appended claims, the
singular forms "a," "an" and "the" include plural referents unless
the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example,
reference to a "midsole insert" can include two or more such
midsole inserts unless the context indicates otherwise.
[0049] While described herein as a "midsole insert", the term
"midsole" is not intended to be limited to an insert that lies
between an outsole and an insole of a shoe. As described herein,
the midsole insert can also act as the insole of the shoe (the
layer that immediately contacts the foot of the wearer of the
shoe), or can be placed on top of an existing midsole. In addition,
other layers can be present between the midsole insert and the
outsole in some embodiments, and/or between the midsole insert and
the foot of the wearer in some embodiments.
[0050] Ranges may be expressed herein as from "about" one
particular value, and/or to "about" another particular value. When
such a range is expressed, another embodiment includes from the one
particular value and/or to the other particular value. Similarly,
when values are expressed as approximations, by use of the
antecedent "about," it will be understood that the particular value
forms another embodiment. It will be further understood that the
endpoints of each of the ranges are significant both in relation to
the other endpoint, and independently of the other endpoint.
[0051] As used herein, the terms "optional" or "optionally" mean
that the subsequently described event or circumstance may or may
not occur, and that the description includes instances where said
event or circumstance occurs and instances where it does not.
[0052] Reference will now be made in detail to the aspects of the
invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying
drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers are used
throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts.
[0053] According to various embodiments, a modular shoe system is
provided. The modular shoe system can include an upper, an outsole
connected to the upper, and at least one midsole insert. The
midsole insert can be configured to operatively engage at least a
portion of the outsole. Referring to FIGS. 1A-1B and 2A-2E,
exemplary modular shoe systems 100 can include an upper 110 with a
tongue 112 and a shoe opening 114, such as found in traditional
shoes. The modular shoe system 100 also includes an outsole 160
attached to the upper. As can be appreciated, the outsole is
attached to the upper along a peripheral region 168 of the outsole.
As can be seen in FIG. 29, the outsole can have an outwardly facing
surface 162 and an opposed inner surface 164. The outsole can also
define at least one receptacle 166 therein.
[0054] The modular shoe system 100 can also include at least one
midsole insert 120, such as shown in FIGS. 1A and 3A-3B. The
midsole can be configured to operatively engage at least portion of
the outsole, For example, the midsole insert can have a first face
122, an opposing second face 124, and aside surface 123 extending
between the first face and the second face. The midsole insert 120
can include at least one protrusion 126 extending from the second
face. In other embodiments, the protrusion 126 can extend from the
side surface 123. Optionally, the midsole insert can include
protrusions that extend from both the second face and the side
surface. The midsole insert is configured to be positionable in
overlying relationship with the inner surface 164 of the outsole,
such that the at least one protrusion 126 extends into a
corresponding receptacle 166 in the outsole, as will be described
in further detail below. With the midsole insert inserted in
overlying relationship with the outsole, an assembled shoe is
created. It can be appreciated that the overlying relationship of
the midsole insert with the outsole can, in some instances, include
abutting relationship between the midsole insert and the outsole.
However, the term "overlying relationship" is not meant to be
limited to an abutting relationship; rather, in some embodiments
described herein, the overlying relationship can be a spaced
relationship, an abutting relationship, or a partially spaced and
partially abutting relationship.
[0055] According to various embodiments, such as shown in FIGS.
2B-2E, the at least one receptacle 166 of the outsole can be an
opening extending from the inner surface 164 of the outsole to the
outwardly facing surface 162. The outsole can include a plurality
of such openings positioned within the outsole, each opening
configured to receive a respective protrusion 126 of a midsole
insert, such as shown in FIG. 113. The outsole can also include at
least one receptacle in a side portion of the inner surface.
[0056] With reference to FIG. 6A, as in any standard shoe, the
outsole includes an anterior portion, which can include the toe
portion, and a posterior or heel portion, as well as a medial side,
and a lateral side. In one embodiment, the outsole can include a
central member 182 that extends from the toe portion to the heel
portion, in between the medial side and the lateral side. The
plurality of openings can include at least one opening between the
central member 182 and the medial side of the outsole, as well as
at least one opening between the central member and the lateral
side. In yet a further embodiment, and with reference to FIG. 2E,
the outsole can include a number of openings between the central
member and the medial side, and a number of openings between the
central member and the lateral side. As can be appreciated, a
number of additional members can extend from the central member to
the medial and lateral sides, in between the openings. Though shown
in the figures as being generally rectangular or polygonal in
shape, the openings are not intended to be limited to any
particular shape or size. Thus, the openings in the outsole could
be mesh-like in nature, with similarly shaped protrusions in the
midsole insert. Optionally, the openings could have a variety of
shapes, including round (circular, oval, elliptical), or random
shapes, such as puzzle pieces.
[0057] According to further embodiments, the modular shoe system
also includes at least one midsole insert, as described briefly
above. With reference to FIGS. 3A-3B, the midsole insert 120 can
include at least one protrusion 126, which has a third face 128
that is distal of the second face 124. In the embodiment of the
modular shoe system 100 shown in FIGS. 1A-6E, the outsole includes
a number of openings; the midsole insert can include a
corresponding number of protrusions 126, each configured to extend
into a corresponding opening when the midsole insert is positioned
in overlying relationship with the inner surface 164 of the
outsole.
[0058] As shown in FIG. 4B, the outsole comprises treads 170 on
portions of the outwardly facing surface 162. The midsole insert
can comprise treads 130 on at least portions of the third. face of
at least one protrusion. As can be appreciated, when the midsole
insert is positioned in overlying relationship with the outsole,
with the protrusions extending through the outsole openings, the
midsole insert and outsole can both include treads on portions
thereof to give the assembled shoe a treaded lower surface. The
assembled shoe 150 can also be seen in FIGS. 5A-5E.
[0059] With reference to FIGS. 6A-6E, the outsole can, according to
various embodiments, include at least one projection that is
configured to extend into at least one receiving groove in the
midsole insert. As can be appreciated, such a projection and
receiving groove can also provide for the operative engagement of
the midsole to the outsole. In one example, the projection 172b can
be T-shaped, and the receiving groove 132b can have a complementary
T-shape, thereby providing operative engagement between the midsole
insert and the outsole. In this aspect, the projection can extend
along portions of the length of the central member of the outsole,
as well as along corresponding central portions of the midsole
insert. Additional projections 172a, 172c can be provided along
sides of the outsole, which can be configured to extend into
corresponding receiving grooves 132a, 132c in the midsole insert.
Any of the exemplary projections and grooves described above can
extend substantially along the length of the outsole and midsole,
respectively, or can along only portions of the outsole and
midsole.
[0060] In various embodiments, the modular shoe system 100 includes
a plurality of midsole inserts that are interchangeable depending
on the needs of a user. The user can be the person who will
ultimately wear the shoe. Optionally, as used herein, "user" can
include a doctor, therapist, clinician, and/or manufacturer, and is
not limited to the ultimate wearer of the shoe. The plurality of
midsole inserts can include a first midsole insert having a first
tread type on a third face of at least one protrusion. A second
midsole insert can be provided having a second tread type on a
third face of at least one protrusion. The tread type is intended
to mean not only the size and shape of each tread, but also the
spacing and pattern of treads. For example, the tread depth,
height, width, and orientation can all be included as part of the
tread type of a midsole insert or an outsole described herein.
Tread type can also include the outsole-to-ground friction
properties of the tread (i.e., the slip properties or roughness of
the outsole). In one embodiment, the first tread type is different
from the second tread type. Additional midsole inserts can be
provided with different tread types. This can allow a user to
select a specific midsole insert depending on the desired tread
type of the assembled shoe. For example, aggressive tread may be
desired for trail running or hiking on dirt, rocks, or other
non-uniform surfaces; whereas, more streamlined or subdued tread
may be desired for running or walking on streets or other hard and
uniform surfaces.
[0061] With reference to FIGS. 7A-9B, according to other
embodiments, a modular shoe system 200 is provided having an upper
110, a shoe opening 114, and an outsole 260. As described above,
the midsole insert is configured to operatively engage at least a
portion of the outsole. In this embodiment, the receptacle(s) 266
in the outsole 260 can include at least one depression that extends
from the inner surface 264 of the outsole toward the outwardly
facing surface 262. In contrast to the openings described above,
the depressions do not extend all the way through the outsole, but
instead extend only partially through the outsole, as can be seen
in the cross-sectional views of FIGS. 9B-9E. The outsole can also
include a receptacle in a side portion of the inner surface, and
the midsole insert can include at least one protrusion in a side
surface 223 that is configured to extend into a corresponding
receptacle in the side portion of the outsole's inner surface.
[0062] As shown in FIGS. 9B-9E, the protrusions 226 of the midsole
insert are configured to extend into corresponding depressions in
the outsole. As described above with reference to FIGS. 6B-6E, the
outsole can also include at least one projection that is configured
to extend into at least one receiving groove in the midsole insert
to provide operative engagement between the midsole insert and the
outsole, Similarly, and referring to FIGS, 913-9E, the outsole 260
can include at least one projection 272b that is configured to
extend into a corresponding receiving groove 232b in the midsole
insert. Additional projections 272a, 272c can be provided along
sides of the outsole, which can be configured to extend into
corresponding receiving grooves 232a, 232c in the midsole insert.
Any of the exemplary projections and grooves described above can
extend substantially along the length of the outsole and midsole,
respectively, or can along only portions of the outsole and
midsole. In yet other embodiments, the outsole can include either a
groove or projection that runs along an inner side wall of the
outsole, which is configured to engage a corresponding projection
or groove that runs along the side surface of the midsole
insert.
[0063] In contrast to the embodiments described above with respect
to FIGS. 1A-6E, the exemplary modular shoe systems shown in FIGS.
7A-9E include a midsole insert 220 which remains entirely in the
interior of the shoe when it is placed therein to form an assembled
shoe. Thus, no portions of the midsole insert 220 are exposed to
the exterior of the shoe. The midsole insert, therefore, does not
include any treads (as can be seen in FIGS. 7A-7B).
[0064] Although described above (referring to FIGS. 7A-9E) as an
outsole having depressions configured to receive protrusions of
midsole inserts, it is also contemplated that a midsole insert can
have depressions extending from a second face thereof, and the
outsole can include protrusions extending from the inner surface.
The protrusions of the outsole could then extend into the
depressions of the midsole insert to provide for operative
engagement between the midsole insert and the outsole. Attachment
means such as those described above can be provided to provide
operative engagement between the outsole and the midsole
insert.
[0065] In yet other embodiments, the at least one outsole
receptacle can include at least one opening and at least one
depression. Thus, a modular shoe system is not limited to having
all openings or all depressions, as described with respect to the
embodiments above.
[0066] With respect to any of the above-described embodiments, the
plurality of midsole inserts in exemplary modular shoe systems can
each have respective properties, thereby allowing a user to select
a particular midsole insert depending on the desired properties of
the assembled shoe. In addition to the tread type properties
described above, the properties can include stiffness, cushioning,
shock absorption, heel-to-toe drop height, density, heel support,
arch support, shape, and toe box support/stiffness. It is
contemplated that some of the midsole inserts can have certain
properties in common, with at least one property being different
from the other midsole inserts. For example, two midsole inserts
can have the same stiffness, but can have different heel-to-toe
drop heights. As another, non-limiting example, two midsole inserts
can have the same stiffness, but can have different shapes or
levels of heel support and/or arch support. Thus, as explained in
further detail below, a user can vary the midsole insert depending
on the desired properties for a specific use.
[0067] As shown in FIG. 10, various exemplary midsole inserts 320
are shown having different profiles, including different
heel-to-toe drop heights, and different levels of heel and arch
support. The uppermost midsole insert in FIG. 10 (when viewing the
page) has a high heel-to-toe drop height, in that the difference in
height between the ground to the heel and ground to the toe is
greater than in the other midsole inserts shown. In contrast, the
lowermost midsole insert in FIG. 10 has the lowest heel-to-toe drop
height shown.
[0068] According to other embodiments, and with reference to FIGS.
11A-11C, a modular shoe system is provided that includes an upper
110 and an outsole attached to the upper (such as shown in FIG.
7A). At least two separable midsole pieces 440 are provided that
are configured for selective engagement with each other to form a
midsole insert 420. As shown in FIG. 11C, the midsole insert is
positionable in overlying relationship with the inner surface 464
of the outsole 460 to form an assembled shoe (the upper is not
shown, but could be any upper, such as the uppers 110 described
herein).
[0069] As can be appreciated, the assembled shoe can be worn on the
foot of a wearer. Thus, each midsole piece 440 can be configured to
support a corresponding region of the foot. In one particular
embodiment, the midsole pieces can include at least one toe and
ball support piece, at least one arch support piece, and at least
one heel support piece. The pieces can be selectively engaged to
form a midsole insert that would support substantially the entire
foot. In other embodiments, it is contemplated that certain midsole
pieces can be selectively engaged to support specific regions of
the foot, without supporting the entire foot. For example, a
midsole insert can be formed of one or more heel support pieces and
one or more arch support pieces, but may not include a toe/ball
support piece.
[0070] In other embodiments, such as shown in FIG. 11A, the midsole
pieces can include a toe and ball piece 440a, a lateral arch piece
440b, a medial arch piece 440c, a lateral heel piece 440d, and a
medial heel piece 440e. In yet other embodiments, the midsole
pieces can include a medial piece (that runs from toe to heel) and
a lateral piece (that also runs from toe to heel). Optionally, the
midsole pieces can include a toe and ball piece and a separate
arch/heel piece. Thus, the midsole pieces can include any number of
different pieces that would support various regions of the foot,
either partially or wholly.
[0071] The midsole pieces can be selected based on their unique
properties, thereby allowing a user (whether a doctor, therapist,
clinician, manufacturer, patient, shoe wearer, etc.) to completely
customize the midsole of the shoe. For example, and not meant to be
limiting, each midsole piece can be selected based on its
stiffness, cushioning, shock absorption, shape and/or density. The
midsole pieces can also have varying tread types or configurations,
depending on the ultimate use of the assembled midsole. The midsole
pieces can also be selected based on specific support properties
depending on the pathology of the foot. For example, the medial
arch piece 440c can be selected with a specific arch height,
depending on the medial arch height or desired arch support of the
user. Similarly, the lateral heel piece 440d and/or medial heel
piece 440e can be selected with certain properties (stiffness,
density, cushioning, cupping, etc.) depending on the needs of the
user or the needs and foot pathology of the ultimate wearer of the
assembled shoe.
[0072] As can be seen in FIGS. 11A-11C, each midsole piece 440 can
include at least one male member 442 and a corresponding female
receiver 444 to allow for the midsole pieces to selectively engage
each other to form a midsole insert. Although shown in FIG. 11A as
hook-shaped male members 442, it is contemplated that the male and
female portions of the midsole pieces can be of any shape that
allow for selective engagement. For example, the male and female
portions can be shaped such as in traditional jigsaw puzzles. In
yet other embodiments, the midsole pieces can be selectively
engaged with peg and hole means (or other male/female attachment
means), magnets, electrostatic, hook-and-loop, adhesives, or other
engagement means known in the art.
[0073] The assembled midsole insert 420 can be positioned in
overlying and/or engaging relationship with the outsole 460. For
example, as shown in FIG. 11C, the midsole insert 420 can be
positioned in an overlying, but non-engaging relationship with the
outsole 460. Optionally, the midsole piece(s) and thus the
assembled midsole insert can include protrusions, such as those
described above with reference to FIGS. 6A-6B, 8A-8B and 9B-9E,
which are configured to extend into at least one receptacle of the
outsole when the midsole insert is positioned in overlying
relationship with the inner surface of the outsole. As described
above, the protrusions can be positioned on the second face of the
midsole insert, and/or on the side surface of the midsole insert,
depending on the positions of the receptacles on the outsole.
Optionally, or in addition, the midsole piece(s) (and thus the
assembled midsole insert) can include receptacles to receive
protrusions of the outsole, in order to result in operative
engagement of the midsole insert with the outsole.
[0074] It is contemplated that the outsoles and midsole inserts
described herein can be machined or molded to very tight
tolerances, thereby providing a tight fit and secure operative
engagement between the outsole and midsole insert. The use of
protrusions and receptacles, and/or projections and receiving
grooves, such as described herein, can be used to operatively
engage the midsole insert with the outsole and provide positive
mechanical engagement. In yet other embodiments, additional means
can be provided for operatively engaging the midsole insert and the
outsole, in addition to or in place of the protrusions and
receptacles or projections and receiving grooves discussed above
with respect to various modular shoe systems. Such engagement means
can include hook-and-loop fasteners positioned on the inner surface
(164, 264, 464) of the outsole and the second face (124, 224, 424)
of the midsole insert. Optionally, such engagement means can
include releasable adhesive applied to at least a portion of the
inner surface of the outsole and/or the second face of the midsole
insert. The use of a releasable adhesive can also aid in seating
the midsole insert/outsole combination (once operatively engaged),
to allow the assembled shoe to be used in wet environments, for
example. In yet other aspects, attachment can be achieved with
magnets, electrostatic, or other means. Other attachment means can
be provided, as are known in the art, such as any male/female
attachment mechanism (for example, the protrusion/receptacle and
projection/groove described herein, or peg/hole, male hook and
female receiver, etc.), and are not intended to be limited to the
examples described herein.
[0075] According to various embodiments, exemplary midsole inserts
(whether they are unitary inserts or inserts comprised of multiple
separable midsole pieces) can comprise at least an upper layer and
a lower layer, with the upper layer comprising the first face, and
the lower layer comprising the second face. Thus, the layers can be
made of different materials, which can be integrally formed or
bonded together. The materials can also have different properties.
Optionally, a material having a first property can be used for the
upper layer and a material having a second property can be used for
the lower layer. The materials may be the same, but the properties
may differ. Optionally, the materials may be different and the
properties may also differ. For example, the material for the upper
layer can provide for additional cushioning, which may be desirable
to a user since the upper layer would be in contact with a wearer's
foot during wear. The lower layer could have a lower degree of
cushioning, but with a higher degree of stiffness, to give the
midsole insert desired stiffness properties. Any number of layers
can, of course, be provided, and the embodiments described herein
are not intended to be limited to any specific number of layers.
Additionally, the layers could be present laterally (lateral to
medial, and/or anterior to posterior), and are not intended to be
limited to upper and lower layers (relative to the foot of the
wearer).
[0076] Any or all of the midsole layers can be made of a number of
different materials, including thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU),
thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), polyurethane-based. materials,
open-cell polyurethane, ethylene vinyl acetate co-polymer (EVA),
leather, monofilament TPU-coated mesh, nylon mesh, rubber, canvas,
fabric, other plastics, other polymers, natural materials or fibers
(such as hemp or cotton) or combinations thereof. The midsole
layers can also include other materials, and is not intended to be
limited to the list above.
[0077] In a further embodiment, the upper layer of the midsole
insert (regardless of the number of additional layers) can form an
insole layer for the shoe. The insole layer can be made of specific
materials that are commonly used for insoles of shoes, These
materials can include certain properties, such as antimicrobial,
antifungal, anti-odor, wicking, water-resistant, and/or ventilated
properties. In other embodiments, the midsole insert can be
machine-washable. In other optional embodiments, a user could
insert a separate insole insert into the assembled shoe in
overlying relationship to the first face of the midsole insert.
[0078] In yet other embodiments, exemplary midsole inserts can
include embedded tracking devices that store and transmit data
pertaining to acceleration and direction, such that a user can
track his physical activities. Optionally, exemplary midsole
inserts can include a receptacle configured to receive and hold a
tracking device when the midsole insert is used to form an
assembled shoe.
[0079] In accordance with other embodiments, a modular shoe system
can include an upper, outsole having at least one opening extending
from the inner surface to the outwardly facing surface, and a
plurality of midsole inserts configured to be used in combination
with each other. A first midsole insert has a first face, a second
opposing face, and at least one protrusion extending from the
second face, configured to extend into a corresponding opening of
the outsole. The first midsole can optionally have other attachment
means for operative engagement with the outsole. Thus, the first
midsole can be positioned in overlying relationship with the inner
surface of the outsole, as described above. The first midsole can,
however, also include receptacles defined in the first face. A
second midsole insert can be provided that is positionable in
overlying relationship with the first face of the first midsole
insert. The second midsole insert can include a respective first
face, a second opposing face, and at least one protrusion (or other
means for operative engagement) extending from the second face,
configured to extend into a corresponding receptacle in the first
midsole insert. In a further embodiment, the at least one
receptacle of the first midsole can be a depression.
[0080] In this embodiment and in use, the first midsole insert can
be interchangeable based on certain properties, with a focus on its
tread type (as well as the properties listed below). In contrast,
the second midsole insert can be interchangeable based on other
properties, such as stiffness, cushioning, shock absorption,
density, heel support, arch support, shape, and toe box
support/stiffness. The combination of the first and second midsole
inserts can affect the overall heel-to-toe drop height of the
shoe.
[0081] According to various other embodiments, methods are provided
for customizing a shoe. With reference to FIG. 112, the method can
include providing a modular shoe system, such as those described
above. The modular shoe system can include an upper with an outsole
attached to the upper, and a plurality of midsole inserts. A user
can select a first midsole insert from the plurality of midsole
inserts based on at least one property of the midsole insert. The
user can then position the selected first midsole insert on the
outsole such that the first midsole insert is in overlying
relationship with the outsole, and such that the first midsole
insert is operatively engaged with at least a portion of the
outsole. For example, the outsole can include at least one
receptacle and each midsole insert can include at least one
protrusion, and the outsole and midsole insert can be operatively
engaged with the at least one protrusion extending into a
corresponding receptacle in the outsole. Optionally, the outsole
can include at least one protrusion and each midsole insert can
include at least one receptacle fur operative engagement. Other
attachment means to achieve operative engagement are contemplated,
as described above.
[0082] The method can further include selecting a second midsole
insert from the plurality of midsole inserts based on at least one
property of the second midsole insert that differs from the at
least one property of the first midsole insert. The user can
disengage the first midsole from the outsole and can remove the
first midsole insert. The user can then position the selected
second midsole insert on the outsole such that the second midsole
insert is in overlying relationship with the outsole such that the
second midsole insert is operatively engaged with at least a
portion of the outsole. For example, as described above, the at
least one protrusion can extend into a corresponding receptacle in
the outsole.
[0083] According to various embodiments, the method can include
cooperatively engaging a plurality of midsole pieces to form the
first midsole insert and/or the second midsole insert. Thus,
selecting the first midsole insert can include selecting at least
two separable midsole pieces depending on the desired properties,
and selectively engaging them to form the first midsole insert.
Optionally or additionally, selecting the second midsole insert can
include selecting at least two separable midsole pieces depending
on the desired properties, and selectively engaging them to form
the second midsole insert. Thus, it is contemplated that the
methods described herein can include use of unitary midsole inserts
only, use of midsole inserts comprised of separable (and
selectively, engaged) midsole pieces only, or use of a combination
of unitary midsole inserts and midsole inserts comprised of
separable midsole pieces.
[0084] As described above, the properties of the plurality of
midsole pieces and midsole inserts can include stiffness,
cushioning, shock absorption, heel-to-toe drop height, density,
heel support, arch support, shape, and toe box support/stiffness,
as well as tread type, in some embodiments. If midsole pieces are
used to form a midsole insert for use with the shoe system of FIGS.
1A-6B, the midsole pieces can also include different tread types
and configurations. The user can then interchange the midsole
inserts (or interchange midsole pieces) depending on the desired
use for the assembled shoe. If the user is planning to walk in the
assembled shoe, he can select a first midsole insert with a higher
degree of cushioning, higher heel-to-toe drop height, and less
shock absorption. However, if the user wants to go running in the
assembled shoe, he can exchange the first midsole for a second
midsole insert that has higher shock absorption, to accommodate the
increased shock of running. If the user wants to engage in
minimalist or `barefoot` running, he can select a third midsole
with a very low heel-to-toe drop height. In any of these examples,
a user can select a modular shoe system described according to any
of the embodiments above.
[0085] However, in certain instances, a user can use a modular shoe
system such as described with reference to FIGS. 1A-6E, with an
outsole having at least one opening extending through it, which is
configured to receive a protrusion from a midsole insert. With such
systems, the user can select and interchange midsole inserts to
vary the properties listed above, as well as to vary the tread type
of the assembled shoe. For example, if a user plans to engage in
off-road hiking or trail running, he can select a midsole insert
with aggressive tread that is intended for use on non-uniform
and/or slippery surfaces. Instead, if the user wishes to engage in
walking or running on a street or other uniform surface, he can
select a midsole insert with treads intended. for use on such
surfaces. In yet a further example, different midsole inserts could
be selected for running or walking on dry surfaces or for running
or walking on wet surfaces.
[0086] The modular shoe systems described with reference to FIGS.
7A-9E can allow a user to customize the shoe-wearing experience by
selecting midsole inserts with various properties; however, in
these embodiments, the user cannot modify the tread of the shoe by
virtue of the unitary nature of the outsole (i.e., the fact that
the outsole does not have openings in it). In these embodiments,
the user can still select midsole inserts that vary to accommodate
the user's foot pathology and comfort needs, even though the treads
cannot be modified. Similarly, the modular shoe systems described
with reference to FIGS. 11A-11C can allow a user to customize the
shoe-wearing experience by selecting midsole pieces with various
properties and selectively engaging them to form a midsole insert
having desired properties.
[0087] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various
modifications and variations can be made in the present invention
without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention. Other
aspects of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the
art from consideration of the specification and practice of the
invention disclosed herein. It is intended that the specification
and examples be considered as exemplary only, with a true scope and
spirit of the invention being indicated by the following
claims.
* * * * *