U.S. patent application number 14/248431 was filed with the patent office on 2015-10-15 for footwear system with removable inserts.
This patent application is currently assigned to NIKE, INC.. The applicant listed for this patent is NIKE, INC.. Invention is credited to DAVID P. JONES, ELIZABETH LANGVIN, JAMES MOLYNEUX, BRIAN STEWART.
Application Number | 20150289590 14/248431 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 52463144 |
Filed Date | 2015-10-15 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150289590 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
JONES; DAVID P. ; et
al. |
October 15, 2015 |
Footwear System With Removable Inserts
Abstract
A footwear system includes an article of footwear and a set of
removable inserts. The article of footwear includes a midsole with
a cavity that receives one of the removable inserts at a time,
where the inserts are interchangeable. The inserts and cavity have
corresponding tapered geometries that allow the midsole to expand
laterally as the inserts are compressed. This may act to pull the
upper down more tightly against the top of the foot.
Inventors: |
JONES; DAVID P.; (BEAVERTON,
OR) ; LANGVIN; ELIZABETH; (SHERWOOD, OR) ;
MOLYNEUX; JAMES; (PORTLAND, OR) ; STEWART; BRIAN;
(PORTLAND, OR) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
NIKE, INC. |
BEAVERTON |
OR |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
NIKE, INC.
BEAVERTON
OR
|
Family ID: |
52463144 |
Appl. No.: |
14/248431 |
Filed: |
April 9, 2014 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
36/83 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A43B 13/38 20130101;
A43B 13/28 20130101; A43B 17/02 20130101; A43B 17/18 20130101; A43B
3/246 20130101; A43B 13/14 20130101; A43B 3/0047 20130101; A43B
13/16 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A43B 13/38 20060101
A43B013/38 |
Claims
1. An insert system with an article of footwear and a set of
removable inserts, comprising: an upper; a sole structure
comprising a midsole, the midsole having: a front peripheral
portion; a rear peripheral portion; a first side peripheral portion
extending between the front peripheral portion and the rear
peripheral portion; a second side peripheral portion extending
between the front peripheral portion and the rear peripheral
portion, the second side peripheral portion being disposed on an
opposing side of the midsole from the first side peripheral
portion; a bottom portion and a top portion; a cavity; wherein the
cavity has a first cavity sidewall associated with the first side
peripheral portion of the midsole and wherein the cavity has a
second cavity sidewall associated with the second side peripheral
portion of the midsole; wherein the cavity has a lower cavity
surface associated with the bottom portion of the midsole; a
removable insert from the set of removable inserts, the removable
insert being configured to fit within the cavity of the midsole;
wherein the removable insert includes a first insert sidewall and a
second insert sidewall, and wherein the removable insert includes
an insert bottom portion; wherein the first cavity sidewall is
tapered and wherein the second cavity sidewall is tapered; wherein
the first insert sidewall is tapered and wherein the second insert
sidewall is tapered; and wherein the first cavity sidewall is
associated with the first insert sidewall when the removable insert
is disposed in the cavity, wherein the second cavity sidewall is
associated with the second insert sidewall when the removable
insert is disposed in the cavity and wherein the lower cavity
surface is associated with the insert bottom portion when the
removable insert is disposed in the cavity.
2. The insert system according to claim 1, wherein the lower cavity
surface is approximately parallel with a ground contacting surface
of the article of footwear.
3. The insert system according to claim 1, wherein a first angle
formed between the first cavity sidewall and the lower cavity
surface is in a range between 100 and 150 degrees.
4. The insert system according to claim 1, wherein a first angle
formed between the first insert sidewall and the insert bottom
portion is in a range between 100 and 150 degrees.
5. The insert system according to claim 1, wherein the cavity has
an approximately trapezoidal cross-sectional geometry at a
longitudinal position of the midsole.
6. The insert system according to claim 5, wherein the insert has
an approximately trapezoidal cross-sectional geometry corresponding
to the cross-sectional geometry of the cavity.
7. An article of footwear configured to receive a removable insert,
comprising: an upper; a sole structure comprising a midsole, the
midsole having: a front peripheral portion; a rear peripheral
portion; a first side peripheral portion extending between the
front peripheral portion and the rear peripheral portion; a second
side peripheral portion extending between the front peripheral
portion and the rear peripheral portion, the second side peripheral
portion being disposed on an opposing side of the midsole from the
first side peripheral portion; a top portion and a bottom portion;
a cavity; wherein the cavity has a first cavity sidewall associated
with the first side peripheral portion and wherein the cavity has a
second cavity sidewall associated with the second side peripheral
portion; wherein the cavity has a lower cavity surface associated
with the bottom portion; and wherein the first cavity sidewall is
tapered and wherein the second cavity sidewall is tapered.
8. The article of footwear according to claim 7, wherein the first
side peripheral portion has a variable thickness along a direction
extending from the bottom portion of the midsole to the top portion
of the midsole.
9. The article of footwear according to claim 7, wherein the cavity
has a constant depth along a lateral direction between the first
cavity sidewall and the second cavity sidewall.
10. The article of footwear according to claim 7, wherein the first
cavity sidewall is approximately linear in shape and wherein the
second cavity sidewall is approximately linear in shape.
11. The article of footwear according to claim 7, wherein a first
lower peripheral portion of the upper is attached to the first
cavity sidewall.
12. The article of footwear according to claim 11, wherein a second
lower peripheral portion of the upper is attached to the second
cavity sidewall.
13. The article of footwear according to claim 7, wherein first
side peripheral portion and the second side peripheral portion can
bend away from their default configurations.
14. An article of footwear with a removable insert, comprising: an
upper; a sole structure comprising a midsole, the midsole having: a
front peripheral portion; a rear peripheral portion; a first side
peripheral portion extending between the front peripheral portion
and the rear peripheral portion, the first side peripheral portion
having a first outer sidewall; a second side peripheral portion
extending between the front peripheral portion and the rear
peripheral portion, the second side peripheral portion being
disposed on an opposing side of the midsole from the first side
peripheral portion, the second side peripheral portion having a
second outer sidewall; a bottom portion and a top portion; a cavity
configured to receive the removable insert; the midsole having a
first configuration wherein the midsole has a first width measured
between the first outer sidewall and the second outer sidewall; the
midsole having a second configuration wherein the midsole has a
second width measured between the first outer sidewall and the
second outer sidewall, the second width being greater than the
first width; and wherein the second configuration occurs when a
force is applied to the top portion of the removable insert by a
foot.
15. The article of footwear and the removable insert according to
claim 14, wherein a portion of the upper is pulled down tighter
against the foot in the second configuration than in the first
configuration.
16. The article of footwear and the removable insert according to
claim 14, wherein the first side peripheral portion and the second
side peripheral portion bend outwardly between the first
configuration and the second configuration.
17. The article of footwear and the removable insert according to
claim 14, wherein the article of footwear and the insert return to
the first configuration after the downward force applied by the
foot has dissipated.
18. The article of footwear and the removable insert according to
claim 14, wherein the first width and the second width are measured
at the top portion of the midsole.
19. The article of footwear and the removable insert according to
claim 14, wherein the top portion of the removable insert is
disposed a first distance from the lower cavity surface in the
first configuration and wherein the top portion of the removable
insert is disposed a second distance from the lower cavity insert
in the second configuration.
20. The article of footwear and the removable insert according to
claim 19, wherein the first distance is greater than the second
distance.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is related to U.S. Patent Publication No.
______, currently U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, filed
______, and entitled "Articles of Footwear Having a Similar
Appearance and Different Sole Assemblies" (Attorney Docket Number
51-3669), which application is hereby incorporated by reference in
its entirety.
BACKGROUND
[0002] The present embodiments relate generally to articles of
footwear, and in particular to articles of footwear with
interchangeable inserts.
[0003] Articles of footwear generally include two primary elements:
an upper and a sole structure. The upper is often formed from a
plurality of material elements (e.g., textiles, polymer sheet
layers, foam layers, leather, synthetic leather) that are stitched
or adhesively bonded together to form a void on the interior of the
footwear for comfortably and securely receiving a foot. More
particularly, the upper forms a structure that extends over instep
and toe areas of the foot, along medial and lateral sides of the
foot, and around a heel area of the foot. The upper may also
incorporate a lacing system to adjust the fit of the footwear, as
well as permitting entry and removal of the foot from the void
within the upper. In addition, the upper may include a tongue that
extends under the lacing system to enhance adjustability and
comfort of the footwear, and the upper may incorporate a heel
counter.
SUMMARY
[0004] In one aspect, an insert system with an article of footwear
and a set of removable inserts includes an upper and a sole
structure comprising a midsole. The midsole has a front peripheral
portion, a rear peripheral portion, a first side peripheral portion
extending between the front peripheral portion and the rear
peripheral portion and a second side peripheral portion extending
between the front peripheral portion and the rear peripheral
portion. The second side peripheral portion is disposed on an
opposing side of the midsole from the first side peripheral
portion. The midsole includes a bottom portion, a top portion and a
cavity. The cavity has a first cavity sidewall associated with the
first side peripheral portion of the midsole and the cavity has a
second cavity sidewall associated with the second side peripheral
portion of the midsole. The cavity has a lower cavity surface
associated with the bottom portion of the midsole. The insert
system includes a removable insert from the set of removable
inserts, and the removable insert is configured to fit within the
cavity of the midsole. The removable insert includes a first insert
sidewall and a second insert sidewall, and the removable insert
includes an insert bottom portion. The first cavity sidewall is
tapered and the second cavity sidewall is tapered. The first insert
sidewall is tapered and the second insert sidewall is tapered. The
first cavity sidewall is associated with the first insert sidewall
when the removable insert is disposed in the cavity, the second
cavity sidewall is associated with the second insert sidewall when
the removable insert is disposed in the cavity and the lower cavity
surface is associated with the insert bottom portion when the
removable insert is disposed in the cavity.
[0005] In another aspect, an article of footwear configured to
receive a removable insert includes an upper and a sole structure
with a midsole. The midsole has a front peripheral portion, a rear
peripheral portion, a first side peripheral portion extending
between the front peripheral portion and the rear peripheral
portion and a second side peripheral portion extending between the
front peripheral portion and the rear peripheral portion. The
second side peripheral portion is disposed on an opposing side of
the midsole from the first side peripheral portion. The midsole
includes a bottom portion, a top portion and a cavity. The cavity
has a first cavity sidewall associated with the first side
peripheral portion and the cavity has a second cavity sidewall
associated with the second side peripheral portion. The cavity has
a lower cavity surface associated with the bottom portion. The
first cavity sidewall is tapered and the second cavity sidewall is
tapered.
[0006] In another aspect, an article of footwear with a removable
insert includes an upper and a sole structure with a midsole. The
midsole has a front peripheral portion, a rear peripheral portion,
a first side peripheral portion extending between the front
peripheral portion and the rear peripheral portion, where the first
side peripheral portion has a first outer sidewall, and a second
side peripheral portion extending between the front peripheral
portion and the rear peripheral portion. The second side peripheral
portion is disposed on an opposing side of the midsole from the
first side peripheral portion. The second side peripheral portion
has a second outer sidewall. The midsole includes a bottom portion
and a top portion. The midsole also includes a cavity configured to
receive the removable insert. The midsole has a first configuration
wherein the midsole has a first width measured between the first
outer sidewall and the second outer sidewall. The midsole has a
second configuration wherein the midsole has a second width
measured between the first outer sidewall and the second outer
sidewall. The second width is greater than the first width. The
second configuration occurs when a force is applied to the top
portion of the removable insert by a foot.
[0007] Other systems, methods, features and advantages of the
embodiments will be, or will become, apparent to one of ordinary
skill in the art upon examination of the following figures and
detailed description. It is intended that all such additional
systems, methods, features and advantages be included within this
description and this summary, be within the scope of the
embodiments, and be protected by the following claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] The embodiments can be better understood with reference to
the following drawings and description. The components in the
figures are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed
upon illustrating the principles of the embodiments. Moreover, in
the figures, like reference numerals designate corresponding parts
throughout the different views.
[0009] FIG. 1 is a schematic isometric view of an embodiment of a
footwear system including an article of footwear and a set of
removable inserts;
[0010] FIG. 2 is a schematic exploded isometric view of an
embodiment of an article of footwear configured to receive a
removable insert;
[0011] FIG. 3 is a schematic isometric view of a removable insert,
including two enlarged cross-sectional views, according to an
embodiment;
[0012] FIG. 4 is a schematic bottom isometric view of a set of
removable inserts;
[0013] FIG. 5 is a schematic isometric view of an embodiment of an
article of footwear and a removable insert being inserted into the
article of footwear;
[0014] FIG. 6 is a schematic isometric view of an embodiment of an
article of footwear with a removable insert disposed in a cavity of
a midsole of the article of footwear;
[0015] FIG. 7 is a schematic view of an embodiment of a
configuration of an article of footwear as an athlete is standing
in place; and
[0016] FIG. 8 is a schematic view of an embodiment of a
configuration of an article of footwear as an athlete is applying a
downward force to an insert within the article of footwear.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0017] FIG. 1 is a schematic view of an embodiment of footwear
system 101. In some embodiments, footwear system 101 may include at
least one article of footwear 100, as well as a set of inserts 150.
Although a single article is shown in the embodiments for purposes
of clarity, footwear system 101 may include a corresponding first
article of footwear and second article of footwear (not shown),
configured for a left and right foot, respectively. Thus, it will
be understood that the principles discussed herein may equally
apply to another article of footwear corresponding to article of
footwear 100. Likewise, the principles taught in association with
set of inserts 150 may equally apply to additional inserts that
could be included in set of inserts 150 in other embodiments.
[0018] Article of footwear 100, also referred to simply as article
100, may be configured as various kinds of footwear including, but
not limited to: hiking boots, soccer shoes, football shoes,
sneakers, running shoes, cross-training shoes, rugby shoes,
basketball shoes, baseball shoes as well as other kinds of shoes.
Moreover, in some embodiments article 100 may be configured as
various other kinds of non-sports related footwear, including, but
not limited to: slippers, sandals, high heeled footwear, and
loafers.
[0019] Referring to FIG. 1, for purposes of reference, article 100
may be divided into forefoot portion 10, midfoot portion 12 and
heel portion 14. Forefoot portion 10 may be generally associated
with the toes and joints connecting the metatarsals with the
phalanges. Midfoot portion 12 may be generally associated with the
arch of a foot. Likewise, heel portion 14 may be generally
associated with the heel of a foot, including the calcaneus bone.
In addition, article 100 may include lateral side 16 and medial
side 18 (see also FIG. 5). In particular, lateral side 16 and
medial side 18 may be opposing sides of article 100. Furthermore,
both lateral side 16 and medial side 18 may extend through forefoot
portion 10, midfoot portion 12 and heel portion 14.
[0020] It will be understood that forefoot portion 10, midfoot
portion 12 and heel portion 14 are only intended for purposes of
description and are not intended to demarcate precise regions of
article 100. Likewise, lateral side 16 and medial side 18 are
intended to represent generally two sides of an article, rather
than precisely demarcating article 100 into two halves. Moreover,
throughout the embodiments, forefoot portion 10, midfoot portion
12, heel portion 14, lateral side 16 and medial side 18 may be used
to refer to portions/sides of individual components of article 100,
as well as portions/sides of any inserts from set of inserts.
[0021] For consistency and convenience, directional adjectives are
employed throughout this detailed description corresponding to the
illustrated embodiments. The term "longitudinal" as used throughout
this detailed description and in the claims refers to a direction
extending a length of a component (e.g., article of footwear or
insert). In some cases, the longitudinal direction may extend from
a forefoot portion to a heel portion of the component. Also, the
term "lateral" as used throughout this detailed description and in
the claims refers to a direction extending along a width of a
component. In other words, the lateral direction may extend between
a medial side and a lateral side of a component. Furthermore, the
term "vertical" as used throughout this detailed description and in
the claims refers to a direction generally perpendicular to a
lateral and longitudinal direction. For example, in cases where an
article is planted flat on a ground surface, the vertical direction
may extend from the ground surface upward. In addition, the term
"proximal" refers to a portion of a footwear component that is
closer to a portion of a foot when an article of footwear is worn.
Likewise, the term "distal" refers to a portion of a footwear
component that is further from a portion of a foot when an article
of footwear is worn. This detailed description makes use of these
directional adjectives in describing both a midsole and an
insert.
[0022] The following embodiments can include any of the features
and/or components described in the "Articles of Footwear Having a
Similar Appearance and Different Sole Assemblies" application
described above and incorporated by reference.
[0023] Article 100 may include an upper 102 as well as a sole
structure 110. Generally, upper 102 may be any type of upper. In
particular, upper 102 may have any design, shape, size and/or
color. For example, in embodiments where article 100 is a
basketball shoe, upper 102 could be a high top upper that is shaped
to provide high support on an ankle. In embodiments where article
100 is a running shoe, upper 102 could be a low top upper.
[0024] In some embodiments, upper 102 includes opening 120 that
provides entry for the foot into an interior cavity of upper 102.
In some embodiments, upper 102 may include a tongue 122 that
provides cushioning and support across the instep of the foot. Some
embodiments may include fastening provisions, including, but not
limited to: laces, cables, straps, buttons, zippers as well as any
other provisions known in the art for fastening articles. In some
embodiments, a lace 125 may be applied at a fastening region of
upper 102.
[0025] In some embodiments, upper 102 could be open on a lower
portion. In such cases, upper 102 may be associated with a lower
opening that is bounded by a lower peripheral portion 103. In other
embodiments, upper 102 could be closed on a lower portion. In such
cases, upper 102 could have a lower portion of material separated
from the side portions of upper 102 by lower peripheral portion
103. In some embodiments, as depicted in FIGS. 6-8, upper 102
includes portions extending below lower peripheral portion 103 and
may even be closed beneath a foot.
[0026] In some embodiments, sole structure 110 may be configured to
provide traction for article 100. In addition to providing
traction, sole structure 110 may attenuate ground reaction forces
when compressed between the foot and the ground during walking,
running or other ambulatory activities. The configuration of sole
structure 110 may vary significantly in different embodiments to
include a variety of conventional or non-conventional structures.
In some cases, the configuration of sole structure 110 can be
configured according to one or more types of ground surfaces on
which sole structure 110 may be used. Examples of ground surfaces
include, but are not limited to: natural turf, synthetic turf,
dirt, as well as other surfaces.
[0027] Sole structure 110 is secured to upper 102 and extends
between the foot and the ground when article 100 is worn. In
different embodiments, sole structure 110 may include different
components. For example, sole structure 110 may include an outsole,
a midsole, and/or an insole. In some cases, one or more of these
components may be optional. In the embodiment of FIG. 1, sole
structure 110 includes a midsole 112 and an outsole 114.
[0028] FIG. 2 illustrates an exploded isometric view of an
embodiment of article of footwear 100, including upper 102, midsole
112 and outsole 114. Referring to FIG. 2, midsole 112 may be
characterized has having various portions. In one embodiment,
midsole 112 includes a top portion 202 and a bottom portion 204,
which is disposed opposite of top portion 204. Additionally,
midsole 112 may include a front peripheral portion 206 and a rear
peripheral portion 208. Midsole 112 may also include a first side
peripheral portion 210, which extends from front peripheral portion
206 to rear peripheral portion 208. Also, midsole 112 may include a
second side peripheral portion 212, which extends from front
peripheral portion 206 to rear peripheral portion 208. It will be
understood that first side peripheral portion 210 and second side
peripheral portion 212 are intended to characterize opposing side
portions of midsole 112. In at least one embodiment, it may be seen
that first side peripheral portion 210 is associated with lateral
side 16 of article of footwear 100, while second side peripheral
portion 212 is associated with medial side 18 of article of
footwear 100.
[0029] As shown in FIG. 2, midsole 112 may include a cavity 230
that is configured to receive one or more inserts from set of
inserts 150. Generally, cavity 130 of midsole 112 may be disposed
in top portion 202 of midsole 112. In some embodiments, cavity 230
may extend through forefoot portion 10, midfoot portion 12 and/or
heel portion 14 of midsole 112. In an exemplary embodiment, cavity
230 extends from forefoot portion 10 through midfoot portion 12 and
to heel portion 14 of midsole 112.
[0030] FIG. 2 includes an enlarged cross-sectional view of a
portion of midsole 112 in forefoot portion 10, as well as an
enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of midsole 112 in heel
portion 14. These enlarged cross-sectional views are intended to
illustrate the details of cavity 230. Referring to FIG. 2,
especially the enlarged cross-sectional views of forefoot portion
10 and heel portion 14, cavity 230 may include a first cavity
sidewall 232 that is associated with first side peripheral portion
210 of midsole 112. In addition, cavity 230 may include a second
cavity sidewall 234 that is associated with second side peripheral
portion 212 of midsole 112. In addition, cavity 230 may include a
lower cavity surface 236 that is associated with bottom portion 204
of midsole 112. In some embodiments, lower cavity surface 236 could
be approximately parallel with a ground contacting surface of sole
structure 110, such as, for example, an outer surface 115 of
outsole 114 (see FIG. 6).
[0031] In different embodiments, the number of inserts comprising
set of inserts 150 may vary. In some embodiments, set of inserts
150 may comprise a single insert that may be used with article of
footwear 100. In other embodiments, set of inserts 150 may comprise
two inserts that may be removably inserted into article of footwear
100. In still other embodiments, set of inserts 150 could comprise
three or more inserts that may be removably inserted into article
of footwear 100.
[0032] FIG. 3 is a schematic isometric view of first removable
insert 152 including two enlarged cross-sectional views. FIG. 4 is
a schematic isometric view of set of inserts 150, in which the
bottom sides of the inserts are visible. Referring now to FIGS. 1
and 4, set of inserts 150 may further comprise a first removable
insert 152 and a second removable insert 154. Each insert comprise
of a top portion, a bottom portion and various peripheral
sidewalls. For example, first removable insert 152 may comprise top
portion 160 (FIG. 1) and bottom portion 162 (FIG. 4). In addition,
as best seen in FIG. 3, first removable insert 152 may include
first insert sidewall 164 and second insert sidewall 166. Here, it
may be understood that first insert sidewall 164 is disposed on an
opposite side of second insert sidewall 166. As clearly shown in
FIG. 3, first insert sidewall 164 and second insert sidewall 166
connect an outer periphery 170 of top portion 160 to an outer
periphery 172 of bottom portion 162. In other words, first insert
sidewall 164 and second insert sidewall 166 are associated with the
outermost boundary of first removable insert 152.
[0033] In the embodiment of FIGS. 1 and 4, first removable insert
152 and second removable insert 154 may be full length inserts. In
particular, first removable insert 152 and second removable insert
154 may each extend through forefoot portion 10, midfoot portion 12
and heel portion 14 of midsole 112 when inserted within midsole 112
(see FIG. 1). However, in other embodiments, one or more inserts of
a set of inserts 150 could be partial length inserts, including
insets that extend through any combination of forefoot portion 10,
midfoot portion 12 and/or heel portion 14 of midsole 112.
[0034] As seen in FIG. 4, some embodiments can include inserts with
different materials, material characteristics and/or components.
For example, while first removable insert 152 and second removable
insert 154 may both have cavity gripping portions (namely, first
cavity gripping portion 302 and second cavity gripping portion
304), they may differ in some other respects. First removable
insert 152 may have a smooth base portion 306 that extends through
heel portion 14, midfoot portion 12 and into forefoot portion 10.
In contrast, smooth base portion 308 of second removable insert 154
may primarily extend through heel portion 14 and midfoot portion
12. Instead, second removable insert 154 may include a surface
pattern 312 that may enhance engagement between forefoot portion 10
and a portion of a cavity. Additionally, in at least some
embodiments, first removable insert 152 may be configured with a
cushioning device 310. In some cases, cushioning device 310 could
be an air-filled bladder embedded within forefoot portion 10 of
first insert 152.
[0035] It will be understood that each insert of set of inserts 150
could vary in any manner, including variations in materials and/or
material characteristics. For example, embodiments can differ in
rigidity, flexibility, cushioning, support, weight as well as in
other ways. Embodiments can include inserts made of any materials
including, but not limited to: plastics, foams, woven and/or
non-woven fabrics, composite materials as well as other kinds of
inserts. In some embodiments, first removable insert 152 and second
removable insert 154 may each be made of a foam material. In at
least some embodiments, each insert may comprise a different foam
material with different rigidities and/or cushioning properties.
Moreover, it will be understood that in some embodiments, the
materials used for one or more inserts may be complementary to the
materials used in constructing midsole 112. In particular, in some
embodiments, at least some portions of either first removable
insert 152 and/or second removable insert 154 may comprise
substantially similar materials to those used for making midsole
112.
[0036] Varying the properties of each insert allows for a
customizable experience. In particular, a user may select an insert
that achieves desired functionality from two or more inserts in a
set of inserts. Thus, different inserts can be used to achieve
different degrees of support, cushioning, rigidity, energy return,
weight reduction, as well as possibly other features.
[0037] Embodiments can include provisions to facilitate improved
support for a foot using an insert. In some embodiments, an insert
and corresponding cavity of the midsole may have geometries that
enhance support for the foot. In an exemplary embodiment, an insert
and corresponding midsole cavity can have tapered geometries that
enhance support for the foot during some kinds of maneuvers, such
as cutting, backpedaling, foot strikes or other maneuvers where
forces are applied by the foot to the insert and midsole.
[0038] Referring now to FIG. 3, first removable insert 152 may have
one or more tapered portions, including sidewalls, portions and/or
surfaces. In some embodiments, first insert sidewall 164 may have a
tapered geometry. Also, in some embodiments, second insert sidewall
166 may have a tapered geometry. In the embodiment of FIG. 1, both
first insert sidewall 164 and second insert sidewall 166 have
tapered geometries.
[0039] The term "tapered" as used herein refers to the angled or
sloped configuration of each sidewall. In some embodiments, each
sidewall may be tapered in an approximately linear manner.
Specifically, each sidewall may be an approximately straight
surface that forms non-right angles with respect to a top portion
and/or a bottom portion of the insert. In other embodiments, each
sidewall could be tapered in a non-linear manner. Specifically,
each sidewall could be contoured in a convex and/or concave manner,
or could be comprised of a combination of convex and/or concave
contours.
[0040] As seen in the enlarged cross-sectional view of FIG. 1 taken
at forefoot portion 10 of first removable insert 152, first insert
sidewall 164 and second insert sidewall 166 may be angled with
respect to top portion 160 and bottom portion 162 of midsole 112.
In this exemplary configuration, first insert sidewall 164 forms a
first angle 191 with bottom portion 162 and first insert sidewall
164 forms a second angle 192 with top portion 160. Likewise, second
insert sidewall 166 forms a third angle 193 with bottom portion 162
and second insert sidewall 166 forms a fourth angle 194 with top
portion 160.
[0041] In different embodiments, the value of first angle 191,
second angle 192, third angle 193 and fourth angle 194 can vary. In
some embodiments, first angle 191 and third angle 193 may both have
values approximately in the range between 90 degrees and 150
degrees. In other words, in some embodiments, first angle 191 and
third angle 193 may be obtuse angles. In some embodiments, second
angle 192 and fourth angle 194 may both have values approximately
in the range between 20 degrees and 90 degrees. In other words, in
some embodiments, second angle 192 and fourth angle 194 may be
acute angles. In some embodiments, the acute angles of first
removable insert 152 may be substantially less than 75 degrees,
while the obtuse angles may be substantially greater than 105
degrees.
[0042] In some embodiments, first angle 191 and second angle 193
could be approximately similar, however, in other embodiments first
angle 191 and second angle 193 could have different values.
Likewise, in some embodiments, second angle 192 and fourth angle
194 could be approximately similar, however in other embodiments
second angle 192 and fourth angle 194 could have different values.
In at least some embodiments, for example, the degree of tapering,
slope, or slanting, of first insert sidewall 164 could be different
from the degree of tapering, slope, or slanting of second insert
sidewall 166. In such embodiments, the differences in tapering,
slope or slanting results in different values of first angle 191
and third angle 193, as well as different values of second angle
192 and fourth angle 194. Differences in tapering between first
insert sidewall 164 and second insert sidewall 166 could provide
variations in support when leaning towards one side (e.g., a
lateral side) or towards another side (e.g., a medial side).
[0043] In some embodiments, the degree of tapering of one or more
insert sidewalls could vary over the length of an insert. For
example, as indicated in FIG. 1, first removable insert 152 may
have a first cross-sectional area 140 at a forefoot portion 10 of
first removable insert 152 and a second cross-sectional area 142 at
a heel portion 14 of first removable insert 152. In some
embodiments, first cross-sectional area 140 and second
cross-sectional area 142 could be substantially similar. In other
embodiments, first cross-sectional area 140 and second
cross-sectional area 142 could be substantially different. In the
embodiment of FIG. 1, first cross-sectional area 140 and second
cross-sectional area 142 are substantially different. More
specifically, first insert sidewall 164 and second insert sidewall
166 may have a steeper tapering. For purposes of reference, first
insert sidewall 164 and bottom portion 162 form first angle 191 in
forefoot portion 10, and first insert sidewall 164 and bottom
portion 162 form seventh angle 197 in heel portion 14. Here,
seventh angle 197 may be a smaller angle than first angle 191.
Additionally, first insert sidewall 164 and top portion 160 form
second angle 192 in forefoot portion 10, and first insert sidewall
164 and top portion 160 form eighth angle 198 in heel portion 14.
Here, eighth angle 198 may be larger than third angle 193. In a
similar manner, sixth angle 196 (formed between top portion 160 and
second insert sidewall 166 in heel portion 14) may be greater than
fourth angle 194. Also, fifth angle 195 (formed between bottom
portion 162 and second insert sidewall 166 in heel portion 14) may
be greater than angle third angle 193.
[0044] Although the illustrated embodiments show top portion 160
and bottom portion 162 as approximately flat, in other embodiments
top portion 160 and/or bottom portion 162 could have any other
geometry. For example, it is contemplated that in some other
embodiments, top portion 160 and/or bottom portion 162 could be
contoured, with both convex and/or concave portions.
[0045] In different embodiments, the cross-sectional geometry of
first removable insert 152 could vary. In some embodiments, the
cross-sectional geometry could comprise any approximate geometry,
including, but not limited to: a rounded geometry, a rectilinear
geometry as well as any other kind of geometry. In an exemplary
embodiment, first removable insert 152 may have an approximately
trapezoidal cross-sectional geometry resulting from the
approximately parallel arrangement of top portion 160 and bottom
portion 162, and the acute/obtuse orientations of first insert
sidewall 164 and second insert sidewall 166. As discussed in
further detail below, this approximately trapezoidal
cross-sectional geometry may result in a wedge-like configuration
for first removable insert 152 that may act to expand midsole 112
in a widthwise direction as vertical forces are applied to first
removable insert 152 by a foot.
[0046] For purposes of clarity, the geometry of first removable
insert 152 is discussed in detail and shown in the figures.
However, it should be appreciated that other inserts, including
second removable insert 154, may have substantially similar
geometries to first removable insert 152. Using a common geometry
(and size) for each insert in set of inserts, may allow multiple
inserts to be interchangeably received within cavity 230 of midsole
112.
[0047] Referring now to FIG. 2, the geometry of cavity 230 may vary
in different embodiments. In some embodiments, the geometry of
cavity 230 may be configured to accommodate removable inserts from
set of inserts 150. In particular, in some embodiments, the
geometry of cavity 230 may be configured to receive the tapered
insert sidewalls of, for example, first removable insert 152.
[0048] In some embodiments, first cavity sidewall 232 may have a
tapered geometry. Also, in some embodiments, second cavity sidewall
234 may have a tapered geometry. In the embodiment of FIG. 2, both
first cavity sidewall 232 and second cavity sidewall 234 have
tapered geometries.
[0049] The term "tapered" as used herein refers to the angled or
sloped configuration of each sidewall. In some embodiments, each
sidewall may be tapered in an approximately linear manner.
Specifically, each sidewall may be an approximately straight
surface that forms non-right angles with respect to a top portion
and/or a bottom portion of the insert. In other embodiments, each
sidewall could be tapered in a non-linear manner. Specifically,
each sidewall could be contoured in a convex and/or concave manner,
or could be comprised of a combination of convex and/or concave
contours.
[0050] As seen in the enlarged cross-sectional views of FIG. 2,
first cavity sidewall 232 and second cavity sidewall 234 may be
angled with respect to lower cavity surface 236 of cavity 230. In
this exemplary configuration, first cavity sidewall 232 forms an
angle 290 with lower cavity surface 236. Likewise, second cavity
sidewall 234 forms an angle 291 with lower cavity surface 236.
[0051] In different embodiments, the value of angle 290 and angle
291 can vary. In some embodiments, angle 290 and angle 291 may both
have values approximately in the range between 90 degrees and 150
degrees. In other words, in some embodiments, angle 290 and angle
291 may be obtuse angles. In at least some embodiments, angle 290
and angle 291 may both be substantially greater than 105
degrees.
[0052] In some embodiments, angle 290 and angle 291 could be
approximately similar, however, in other embodiments angle 290 and
angle 291 could have different values. In at least some
embodiments, for example, the degree of tapering, slope, or
slanting, of first cavity sidewall 232 could be different from the
degree of tapering, slope, or slanting of second cavity sidewall
234. In such embodiments, the differences in tapering, slope or
slanting results in different values of angle 290 and angle 291.
Differences in tapering between first cavity sidewall 232 and
second cavity sidewall 234 could provide variations in support when
leaning towards one side (e.g., a lateral side) or towards another
side (e.g., a medial side).
[0053] In embodiments where an insert has sidewalls that vary in
geometry (for example, in slope or length) over the length of the
insert, cavity 230 can include cavity sidewalls that vary in a
corresponding manner. For example, as seen in FIG. 2, first cavity
sidewall 232 forms an angle 294 with lower cavity surface 236 in
heel portion 14 that is generally smaller than angle 290 that is
formed between first cavity sidewall 232 and lower cavity surface
236 in forefoot portion 10. Similarly, second cavity sidewall 234
forms an angle 293 with lower cavity surface 236 in heel portion 14
that is general smaller than angle 291 that is formed between
second cavity sidewall 234 and lower cavity surface 236 in forefoot
portion 10. In other embodiments, these angles could vary in any
other manner and may generally be selected to accommodate the
angles formed by sidewalls of a corresponding insert.
[0054] In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 2, lower cavity surface
236 is seen to be generally flat. In particular, the approximate
depth of lower cavity surface 236, indicated schematically as depth
239, may be approximately constant between first cavity sidewall
232 and second cavity sidewall 234 (in a lateral direction).
However, in other embodiments, lower cavity surface 236 could be a
contoured surface, including convex and/or concave portions. In
such other embodiments, the approximate depth of lower cavity
surface 236 could be variable. Of course, as seen by comparing
depth 239 of cavity 230 in forefoot portion 10 with depth 237 of
cavity 230 in heel portion 14, it will be understood that the depth
of cavity 230 may vary in the longitudinal direction of midsole
112.
[0055] In different embodiments, the cross-sectional geometry of
cavity 230 could vary. In some embodiments, the cross-sectional
geometry could comprise any approximate geometry, including, but
not limited to: a rounded geometry, a rectilinear geometry as well
as any other kind of geometry. In an exemplary embodiment, cavity
230 may have an approximately trapezoidal cross-sectional geometry
resulting from angled arrangement of first cavity sidewall 232 with
lower cavity surface 236 and of second cavity sidewall 234 with
lower cavity surface 236. Moreover, as with first removable insert
152, cavity 230 can have a cross-sectional geometry that varies
over its length. In particular, cavity 230 may have a first
cross-sectional geometry 240 in forefoot portion 10 and a second
cross-sectional geometry 242 in heel portion 14.
[0056] In some embodiments, the configuration of cavity 230
provides first side peripheral portion 210 and second side
peripheral portion 212 of midsole 112 with variable thicknesses. In
particular, the thicknesses of each side peripheral portion may
vary at different vertical positions (i.e., positions along a
direction between top portion 202 and bottom portion 204 of midsole
112). In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 2, for example, second
side peripheral portion 212 has a first lateral thickness 280 at
top portion 202 of midsole 112. Further, second side peripheral
portion 212 has a second lateral thickness 282 between top portion
202 and lower cavity surface 236. Also, second side peripheral
portion 212 has a third lateral thickness 284 at lower cavity
surface 236. Moreover, third lateral thickness 284 is greater than
second lateral thickness 282. Also, second lateral thickness 282 is
greater than first lateral thickness 280.
[0057] It will be understood that the thicknesses may vary in this
manner due to the difference in geometries of the recess sidewalls
and corresponding outer sidewalls of midsole 112. For example,
while first recess sidewall 232 is tapered (or sloped with respect
to a vertical direction), first outer sidewall 270 of midsole 112
is approximately vertical (i.e., forms approximately right angles
with top portion 202 and bottom portion 204 of midsole 112).
Similarly, while second recess sidewall 234 is tapered, second
outer sidewall 272 of midsole 112 is approximately vertical.
[0058] FIG. 5 illustrates a schematic view of an embodiment where
first removable insert 152 is being inserted into opening 120 of
article of footwear 100. FIG. 6 illustrates a configuration of
article of footwear 100 with first removable insert 152 disposed
within cavity 230. Referring to FIG. 6, one or more portions of
first removable insert 152 may be in contact with portions interior
to article of footwear 100. In some embodiments, portions of upper
102 may extend into cavity 230 and may therefore contact first
insert sidewall 164, second insert sidewall 166 and/or bottom
portion 162 of first removable insert 152. In this exemplary
embodiment, for example, a first lower peripheral portion 512 of
upper 102 may contact first insert sidewall 164 and a second lower
peripheral portion 514 of upper 102 may contact second insert
sidewall 166. Additionally, in some embodiments, a lower portion
516 of upper 102 may be disposed between bottom portion 162 of
first removable insert 152 and lower cavity surface 236 of cavity
230. In other embodiments, however, portions of upper 102 may not
extend into cavity 230, and/or may only partially extend into
cavity 230. Thus, in some other embodiments, first insert sidewall
164 could be in contact with first cavity sidewall 232. Also, in
some embodiments, second insert sidewall 166 could be in contact
with second cavity sidewall 234. Still further, in some
embodiments, bottom portion 162 of first removable insert 152 could
be in contact with lower cavity surface 236 of cavity 230.
[0059] In still other embodiments, rather than a portion of upper
102 extending beneath bottom portion 162 of first removable insert
152, a sockliner or strobe sock may be disposed between bottom
portion 162 and lower cavity surface 236.
[0060] FIGS. 7 and 8 are schematic views illustrating the change in
configuration of first removable insert 152 and article of footwear
100 between a static configuration (FIG. 7) and a dynamic
configuration (FIG. 8), according to an embodiment. Referring first
to FIG. 7, when a wearer 600 is at rest, standing, or walking with
relatively low impact forces being applied to first removable
insert 152, first removable insert 152 rests within cavity 230 of
midsole 112 as described above and shown in FIG. 6. In this
configuration, a foot 602 rests on top portion 160 of first
removable insert 152. Moreover, in this case, top portion 160 of
first removable insert is disposed a distance 702 above lower
cavity surface 236. In this case, distance 702 approximately
corresponds to the thickness of first removable insert 152 in the
static configuration of FIG. 7.
[0061] Referring now to FIG. 8, as higher impact forces are applied
by foot 602, the configuration of first removable insert 152 and
article of footwear 100 may vary. Specifically, a generally
downward force applied to first removable insert 152 by foot 602
results in the downward compression of first removable insert 152.
Although first removable insert 152 is compressed vertically, in at
least some embodiments, portions of first removable insert 152 may
retain an approximately constant lateral width. As indicated in
FIGS. 7 and 8, for example, top portion 160 of first removable
insert 152 has a width 640 in the static configuration of FIG. 7
and in the dynamic configuration of FIG. 8. Because top portion 160
does not contract in the widthwise direction, as top portion 160 is
pushed down by forces from foot 602, first insert sidewall 164 and
second insert sidewall 166 apply an outward lateral force against
first cavity sidewall 232 and second cavity sidewall 234,
respectively. These laterally oriented forces, generated as first
removable insert 152 "wedges" itself deeper into cavity 230 without
substantial lateral compression, causes an outward bending of the
peripheral sides of midsole 112. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 8,
first side peripheral portion 210 and second side peripheral
portion 212 are bent outwardly and away from the vertical
direction, such that the lateral width of midsole 112 is
momentarily increased in at least some portions.
[0062] As seen in FIG. 8, in this dynamic configuration, top
portion 160 of first removable insert 152 is disposed a distance
704 from lower cavity surface 236. In this case, distance 704 is
approximately equal to the thickness of first removable insert 152
in this configuration. It can be seen by comparing distance 702 in
FIG. 7 with distance 704 in FIG. 8, that top portion 160 has
receded further into cavity 230 as first removable insert 152 is
compressed.
[0063] This outward bending of first side peripheral portion 210
and second side peripheral portion 212 may result in a temporary
increase in the width of midsole 112, especially near top portion
202. For example, in the configuration shown in FIG. 7, top portion
202 of midsole 112 may have a width 680, as measured between first
outer sidewall 270 and second outer sidewall 272. In the expanded
configuration of FIG. 8, top portion 202 of midsole 112 may have
width 682, which may be substantially greater than width 680.
[0064] As first side peripheral portion 210 and second side
peripheral portion 212 are bent outwardly and away from their
default vertical orientations, adjacent portions of upper 102 may
likewise be pulled in a similar outward manner. As shown in FIG. 8,
first lower peripheral portion 512, which may be permanently
attached to first cavity sidewall 232, may be pulled outwardly
(i.e., distally) as first side peripheral portion 210 bends
outwardly. Likewise, second lower peripheral portion 514, which may
be permanently attached to second cavity sidewall 234, may be
pulled outwardly (i.e., distally) as second side peripheral portion
212 bends outwardly. This distal movement of first lower peripheral
portion 514 and second lower peripheral portion 514 of upper 102
may result in a top portion 510 of upper 102 being pulled down
closer to (and tighter against) foot 602. In at least some
embodiments, top portion 510 acts to apply a momentary clamping
force to foot 602 in order to increase support and stability for
foot 602 during the maneuver depicted in FIG. 8.
[0065] It is contemplated that in some embodiments, the outward
expansion of midsole 112 under loads applied to an insert could be
varied according to the construction of the insert. For example, a
more rigid top portion for the insert may limit any widthwise
contraction of the insert and thus maximize outward expansion of
the midsole. In contrast, using a less rigid top portion may allow
for some widthwise expansion of the insert (at the top portion
especially), thereby reducing the outward expansion of the midsole.
Thus, it will be understood that the properties of an insert may be
tuned to vary the effect described and shown in FIGS. 7 and 8.
[0066] While various embodiments have been described, the
description is intended to be exemplary, rather than limiting and
it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that many
more embodiments and implementations are possible that are within
the scope of the embodiments. Accordingly, the embodiments are not
to be restricted except in light of the attached claims and their
equivalents. Also, various modifications and changes may be made
within the scope of the attached claims.
* * * * *