U.S. patent application number 14/025351 was filed with the patent office on 2015-12-03 for outsole with stepped projections for article of footwear.
This patent application is currently assigned to NIKE, Inc.. The applicant listed for this patent is NIKE, Inc.. Invention is credited to Bryan N. Farris.
Application Number | 20150342298 14/025351 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 51570838 |
Filed Date | 2015-12-03 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150342298 |
Kind Code |
A9 |
Farris; Bryan N. |
December 3, 2015 |
Outsole With Stepped Projections For Article Of Footwear
Abstract
An article of footwear includes an outsole having a base with an
upper surface that faces the upper and a lower surface that faces
away from the upper surface. The outsole also includes a first
stepped projection that projects in a plurality of first steps from
the lower surface. The plurality of first steps is defined by a
plurality of first tread surfaces and a plurality of first riser
surfaces. The outsole additionally includes a second stepped
projection that projects in a plurality of second steps from the
lower surface. The plurality of second steps is defined by a
plurality of second tread surfaces and a plurality of second riser
surfaces. The second stepped projection is spaced away from the
first stepped projection relative to the lateral axis of the
article of footwear.
Inventors: |
Farris; Bryan N.; (North
Plains, OR) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
NIKE, Inc. |
Beaverton |
OR |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
NIKE, Inc.
Beaverton
OR
|
Prior
Publication: |
|
Document Identifier |
Publication Date |
|
US 20150068063 A1 |
March 12, 2015 |
|
|
Family ID: |
51570838 |
Appl. No.: |
14/025351 |
Filed: |
September 12, 2013 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
36/103 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A43B 7/146 20130101;
A43C 15/168 20130101; A43B 13/18 20130101; A43B 13/22 20130101;
A43B 13/223 20130101; A43B 13/38 20130101; A43B 13/141 20130101;
A43C 15/162 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A43B 13/22 20060101
A43B013/22; A43B 13/18 20060101 A43B013/18 |
Claims
1. An article of footwear having a medial side and a lateral side,
the article of footwear defining a lateral axis that extends
between the medial side and the lateral side, the article of
footwear comprising: an upper; and a sole structure that is
operably coupled to the upper, the sole structure extending along
the lateral axis, the sole structure including an outsole that
includes: a base with an upper surface that faces the upper and a
lower surface that faces away from the upper surface, and a first
stepped projection that projects in a plurality of first steps from
the lower surface, the plurality of first steps defined by a
plurality of first tread surfaces and a plurality of first riser
surfaces, and a second stepped projection that projects in a
plurality of second steps from the lower surface, the plurality of
second steps defined by a plurality of second tread surfaces and a
plurality of second riser surfaces, the second stepped projection
being spaced away from the first stepped projection relative to the
lateral axis of the article of footwear.
2. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the first stepped
projection and second stepped projection are arranged in a row that
extends generally between the medial side and the lateral side.
3. The article of footwear of claim 2, wherein the row is
substantially parallel to the lateral axis.
4. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the plurality of
first steps includes at least three first riser surfaces and the
plurality of second steps includes at least three second riser
surfaces.
5. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the first stepped
projection and the second stepped projection are arranged in one of
a plurality of rows of stepped projections, the plurality of rows
of stepped projections each extending generally between the medial
side and the lateral side, and wherein the first stepped projection
and the second stepped projection are arranged in different ones of
a plurality of columns of stepped projections, the plurality of
columns of stepped projections each extending generally between a
forefoot portion and a lateral portion of the article of
footwear.
6. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the first stepped
projection also includes at least one side that projects from the
lower surface and that intersects the plurality of first steps at a
stepped edge.
7. The article of footwear of claim 6, wherein the at least one
side includes a first side and a second side, wherein the first
side intersects the plurality of first steps at a first stepped
edge, wherein the second side intersects the plurality of first
steps at a second stepped edge, and wherein the first stepped
projection also includes a third side that extends between the
first side and the second side.
8. The article of footwear of claim 7, wherein the first side and
the second side are substantially parallel, and wherein the third
side is substantially perpendicular to the first side and the
second side.
9. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the sole structure
includes a forefoot portion and a heel portion, and wherein the
plurality of first steps and the plurality of second steps
generally face the forefoot portion and generally face away from
the heel portion.
10. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the sole structure
has a ground engaging surface, wherein the sole structure has a
total thickness measured between the upper surface and the ground
engaging surface, and wherein the base has a base thickness
measured between the upper surface and the lower surface, the base
thickness being at most approximately thirty percent (30%) of the
total thickness of the sole structure.
11. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein each of the
plurality of first riser surfaces extends substantially normal to
the lower surface, the plurality of first tread surfaces extending
transverse to the plurality of first riser surfaces.
12. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the base, the first
stepped projection and the second stepped projection are
resiliently flexible.
13. The article of footwear of claim 12, wherein the first stepped
projection and the second stepped projection are configured to
resiliently bend about a bending axis that extends between the
medial side and the lateral side.
14. The article of footwear of claim 12, wherein the sole structure
includes a forefoot portion and a heel portion, and wherein the
first stepped projection and the second stepped projection are
configured to resiliently bend about a bending axis that extends
between the forefoot portion and the heel portion.
15. The article of footwear of claim 12, wherein the base is
configured to resiliently flex in concert with the first stepped
projection and the second stepped projection under the influence of
an input load.
16. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the sole structure
further includes a plurality of secondary stepped projections, each
of the plurality of secondary stepped projections projecting from
the base, the plurality of secondary stepped projections being
arranged in a ring, a space defined between neighboring ones of the
plurality of secondary stepped projections within the ring.
17. An article of footwear comprising: an upper having an interior
surface and an exterior surface; and a sole structure that is
operably coupled to the upper, the sole structure including an
outsole that includes: a base having an upper surface that faces
the upper and a lower surface that faces away from the upper
surface, the upper surface being layered underneath and attached
directly to the exterior surface of the upper, a projection that
projects from the lower surface of the base along a first
direction, the projection having a transverse dimension measured in
a second direction that is transverse to the first direction,
wherein the projection decreases in the transverse dimension as the
projection projects in the first direction, the base and the
projection being resiliently flexible and moveable between a
neutral position and a flexed position, the interior surface moving
due to the movement between the neutral position and the flexed
position.
18. The article of footwear of claim 17, wherein the projection
projects from the lower surface of the base in a plurality of steps
along the first direction, and wherein the projection decreases in
the transverse dimension as the projection projects in the
plurality of steps along the first direction.
19. The article of footwear of claim 18, wherein the plurality of
steps include a plurality of tread surfaces and at least three
riser surfaces.
20. The article of footwear of claim 19, wherein the sole structure
includes a forefoot portion and a heel portion, and wherein the at
least three riser surfaces face the forefoot portion.
21. The article of footwear of claim 19, wherein the at least three
riser surfaces each extends substantially normal to the lower
surface, the plurality of tread surfaces extending transverse to
the at least three riser surfaces.
22. The article of footwear of claim 17, wherein the sole structure
includes a forefoot portion, a heel portion, a medial side, and a
lateral side, wherein the projection is configured to flex about a
longitudinal axis that extends between the forefoot portion and the
heel portion, and wherein the projection is configured to flex
about a lateral axis that extends between the medial side and the
lateral side.
23. An article of footwear having a forefoot portion, a heel
portion, a medial side, and a lateral side, the medial side and the
lateral side each extending between the forefoot portion and the
heel portion, the article of footwear comprising: an upper; and a
sole structure that is operably coupled to the upper, the sole
structure having a ground engaging surface, the sole structure
having a total thickness, the sole structure including an outsole
that includes: a base with an upper surface that is directly
attached to the upper and a lower surface that faces away from the
upper, the base having a base thickness measured between the upper
surface and the lower surface, the base thickness being at most
approximately thirty percent (30%) of the total thickness of the
sole structure, and a plurality of stepped projections that each
project from the lower surface of the base, each of the plurality
of stepped projections including at least three riser surfaces, the
plurality of stepped projections arranged in a plurality of rows
that extend generally between the medial side and the lateral side,
the plurality of stepped projections also arranged in a plurality
of columns that extend generally between the forefoot portion and
the lateral portion, the plurality of stepped projections being
spaced apart from each other within the plurality of rows and
within the plurality of columns.
24. The article of footwear of claim 23, wherein at least one of
the plurality of stepped projections includes a plurality of steps
and at least one side, the at least one side intersecting the
plurality of steps at a stepped edge.
25. The article of footwear of claim 24, wherein the at least one
side includes a first side and a second side, wherein the first
side intersects the plurality of steps at a first stepped edge,
wherein the second side intersects the plurality of steps at a
second stepped edge, and wherein the at least one of the plurality
of stepped projections also includes a third side that extends
between the first side and the second side.
26. The article of footwear of claim 25, wherein the first side and
the second side are substantially parallel, and wherein the third
side is substantially perpendicular to the first side and the
second side.
27. The article of footwear of claim 23, wherein the at least three
riser surfaces face the forefoot portion and face generally away
from the heel portion.
28. The article of footwear of claim 23, wherein the plurality of
stepped projections are substantially equally spaced apart from
each other within the plurality of rows and within the plurality of
columns.
29. The article of footwear of claim 23, wherein the base thickness
is at most approximately 1.5 millimeters.
Description
FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure relates to footwear and, more
particularly, relates to an outsole with stepped projections for an
article of footwear.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Articles of footwear usually include an upper and a sole
structure. Generally, the upper can receive the wearer's foot and
secure the footwear to the foot. Also, the sole structure can
provide traction for the footwear. Moreover in some embodiments,
the sole structure can be resiliently compressible to provide
cushioning to the wearer's foot.
[0003] More specifically, the upper can include one or more
sheet-like sections of material that define a cavity for receiving
the wearer's foot. The upper can also include laces, straps,
buckles, buttons, and other similar components for securing the
footwear to the wearer's foot.
[0004] Also, the sole structure can include a midsole in some
embodiments. The midsole can include resiliently compressible
members, such as foam, a fluid-filled bladder, or other similar
members. As such, the midsole can resiliently compress under the
weight of the wearer or due to impact with a ground surface. This
can help distribute the resulting loads across the sole assembly
and/or attenuate the loads to provide cushioning.
[0005] The sole structure can additionally include an outsole. The
outsole can be made from relatively high friction material such
that the outsole can readily grip the ground with firm traction.
The outsole can also include grooves, sipes, recesses, or other
features that increase surface area of the ground engaging surface,
that can channel water away from the ground engaging surface, or
otherwise increase such traction for the article of footwear.
SUMMARY
[0006] An article of footwear is disclosed that has a medial side
and a lateral side. The article of footwear defines a lateral axis
that extends between the medial side and the lateral side. The
article of footwear includes an upper and a sole structure that is
operably coupled to the upper. The sole structure extends along the
lateral axis. The sole structure includes an outsole having a base
with an upper surface that faces the upper and a lower surface that
faces away from the upper surface. The outsole also includes a
first stepped projection that projects in a plurality of first
steps from the lower surface. In exemplary embodiments; the
plurality of first steps can be defined by a plurality of first
tread surfaces and a plurality of first riser surfaces. The outsole
additionally includes a second stepped projection that projects in
a plurality of second steps from the lower surface. In exemplary
embodiments, the plurality of second steps can be defined by a
plurality of second tread surfaces and a plurality of second riser
surfaces. The second stepped projection can be spaced away from the
first stepped projection relative to the lateral axis of the
article of footwear.
[0007] An article of footwear is also disclosed that includes an
upper having an interior surface and an exterior surface. The
article of footwear also includes a sole structure that is operably
coupled to the upper. The sole structure includes an outsole that
has a base. The base has an upper surface that faces the upper and
a lower surface that faces away from the upper surface. The upper
surface can be layered underneath and attached directly to the
exterior surface of the upper. The outsole also includes a
projection that projects from the lower surface of the base along a
first direction. The projection has a transverse dimension measured
in a second direction that is transverse to the first direction.
The projection decreases in the transverse dimension as the
projection projects in the first direction. Additionally, the base
and the projection are resiliently flexible and moveable between a
neutral position and a flexed position. The interior surface moves
due to the movement between the neutral position and the flexed
position.
[0008] Moreover, an article of footwear is disclosed that includes
a forefoot portion, a heel portion, a medial side, and a lateral
side. The medial side and the lateral side each extend between the
forefoot portion and the heel portion. The article of footwear
includes an upper and a sole structure that is operably coupled to
the upper. The sole structure has a ground engaging surface and a
total thickness. The sole structure includes an outsole with a base
with an upper surface that is directly attached to the upper and a
lower surface that faces away from the upper. The base can have a
base thickness measured between the upper surface and the lower
surface. In some embodiments, the base thickness can be at most
approximately thirty percent (30%) of the total thickness of the
sole structure. Furthermore, the outsole includes a plurality of
stepped projections that each project from the lower surface of the
base. Each of the plurality of stepped projections can include at
least three riser surfaces. The plurality of stepped projections
can be arranged in a plurality of rows that extend generally
between the medial side and the lateral side. The plurality of
stepped projections can also be arranged in a plurality of columns
that extend generally between the forefoot portion and the lateral
portion. The plurality of stepped projections can be spaced apart
from each other within the plurality of rows and within the
plurality of columns.
[0009] This section provides a general summary of the disclosure,
and is not a comprehensive disclosure of its full scope or all of
its features. Further areas of applicability will become apparent
from the description provided herein. The description and specific
examples in this summary are intended for purposes of illustration
only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present
disclosure.
DRAWINGS
[0010] The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes
only of selected embodiments and not all possible implementations,
and are not intended to limit the scope of the present
disclosure.
[0011] FIG. 1 is a side view of an article of footwear according to
an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0012] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a sole structure of the
article of footwear of HG. 1;
[0013] FIG. 3 is a bottom view of the article of footwear of FIG.
1;
[0014] FIG. 4 is a longitudinal section view of the sole structure
of the article of footwear taken along line. 4-4 of FIG. 3;
[0015] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a plurality of stepped
projections of the sole structure of the article of footwear of
FIG. 1;
[0016] FIG. 6 is a section view of the sole structure taken along
the line 6-6 of FIG. 5;
[0017] FIG. 7 is a section view of the sole structure of FIG. 6
shown in a first flexed position;
[0018] FIG. 8 is a section view of the sole structure of FIG. 6
shown in a second flexed position;
[0019] FIG. 9 is a section view of the sole structure taken along
the line 9-9 of FIG. 5;
[0020] FIG. 10 is a section view of the sole structure of FIG. 9
shown in a first flexed position;
[0021] FIG. 11 is a section view of the sole structure of FIG. 9
shown in a second flexed position;
[0022] FIG. 12 is a bottom view of the article of footwear with
stepped projections according to additional embodiments of the
present disclosure; and
[0023] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of stepped projections of the
article of footwear of FIG. 12.
[0024] Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding
parts throughout the several views of the drawings,
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0025] Example embodiments will now be described more fully with
reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0026] Referring initially to FIGS. 1 and 2, exemplary embodiments
of an article of footwear 10 are illustrated according to various
teachings of the present disclosure. Generally, the article of
footwear 10 includes an upper 12 and a sole structure 14 that are
operably coupled together. Although the article of footwear 10 is
illustrated as an athletic shoe, it will be appreciated that the
footwear 10 could be a boot, a sandal, or any other type without
departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
[0027] Footwear 10 can be constructed to include a forefoot portion
16, a heel portion 18, a medial side 20, and a lateral side 22. The
medial side 20 and lateral side 22 can both extend between the
forefoot portion 16 and the heel portion 18, and the medial side 20
and lateral side 22 can be disposed on opposite sides of a
longitudinal axis 24 of the footwear 10. Also, a lateral axis 26
can extend transversely relative to the longitudinal axis 24 and
can extend between the medial side 20 and the lateral side 22. For
example, the lateral axis 26 can be substantially perpendicular to
the longitudinal axis 24. The forefoot portion 16 can support the
forefoot area of the wearer's foot, such as the toes, metatarsals,
and other neighboring areas of the foot. The heel portion 18 can
support the wearer's heel and ankle. The medial side 20 can support
the medial side of the wearer's foot, and the lateral side 22 can
support the lateral side of the wearer's foot.
[0028] Referring now to FIGS. 1 and 2, the upper 12 will be
discussed in greater detail according to exemplary embodiments of
the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the upper 12 can
include one or more sheets of material that is/are shaped to define
an internal void 27 that can receive the wearer's foot. The upper
12 can be made from any suitable material. For example, the upper
12 can be at least partially constructed from leather, fabric, or
synthetic material. Also, the upper 12 can be made from a mesh
material such that the upper 12 is lightweight and air can readily
move in and out of the upper 12.
[0029] As shown in the illustrated embodiments, the upper 12 can
continuously extend between the forefoot portion 16, the heel
portion 18, the medial side 20, and the lateral side 22 of the
article of footwear 10. Also, the upper 12 can include a collar 28
that defines an ankle opening 30, which provides access into and
out of the internal void 27. Additionally, the upper 12 can include
a throat opening 32 that extends along the longitudinal axis 24
between the medial side 20 and the lateral side 22. A securing
device 34, such as a shoelace 36, can extend across the throat
opening 32 to selectively vary the width of the upper 12. For
instance, the shoelace 36 can be tightened to make the upper 12
more narrow for securing the upper 12 to the wearer's foot. The
shoelace 36 can also be loosened to make the upper 12 wider for
releasing the upper 12 from the wearer's foot. It will be
appreciated that the shoelace 36 is merely one example of a
suitable securing device 34 for the article of footwear 10, and the
article of footwear 10 could also include straps, buckles,
loop-and-pile tape, elastic bands, or other types of securing
devices 34 without departing from the scope of the present
disclosure. Also a tongue can be provided within the throat opening
32 to be disposed between the securing device 34 and the wearer's
foot in some embodiments.
[0030] As partially shown in FIG. 4, the upper 12 can additionally
include a strobel member 37, which can also be referred to as a
"strobel" or as a "strobel sock." Those having ordinary skill in
the art will understand that the strobel member 37 can be a sheet
of material that extends horizontally and continuously between the
forefoot portion 16, the heel portion 18, the medial side 20, and
the lateral side 22. As such, the strobel member 37 can be disposed
underneath the wearer's foot. Strobel member 37 can include an
interior surface 39 and an exterior surface 41. The interior
surface 39 can face the sole of the wearer's foot and can abut
against the wearer's foot or the stocking enclosing the wearer's
foot. The exterior surface 41 can face in an opposite direction
from the interior surface 39.
[0031] Referring now to FIGS. 1-4, the sole structure 14 will be
discussed in greater detail. The sole structure 14 can be attached
to the upper 12 and can extend under the wearer's foot. Also, the
sole structure 14 can define a ground engaging surface 35 that
engages the ground, floor, running track, or other supporting
surface. Also, the sole structure 14 can provide increased traction
when walking, running, or jumping. Furthermore, the sole structure
14 can be resiliently deformable to attenuate impact forces while
walking, running, or jumping. Additionally, the sole structure 14
can resiliently recover from such impact to provide energy return
to the wearer's foot.
[0032] As shown in the illustrated embodiments, the sole structure
14 can include an outsole 31. The outsole 31 can be connected
directly to the upper 12. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, the
outsole 31 can be layered underneath and directly attached to the
strobel member 37. In other embodiments, the sole structure 14 can
include a midsole between the upper 12 and the outsole 31, and the
midsole can be made from resilient materials, bladders, or other
items that resiliently deform and compress to attenuate impact
forces. However, those having ordinary skill in the art will
recognize that the article of footwear 10 shown in the illustrated
embodiments does not include a midsole. Stated differently, the
sole structure 14 of the footwear 10 can be "midsole-less". The
outsole 31 can be resiliently deformable to provide at least some
of the energy damping and energy return that a traditional midsole
provides. It will be appreciated that the absence of a midsole can
provide weight savings and can increase manufacturing efficiency
for the article of footwear 10. The absence of the midsole can
further allow the outsole 31 to transfer loads to the wearer's foot
in a direct manner. As such, sole structure 14 can enhance
proprioceptive qualities to the wearer and provide other advantages
that will be discussed in detail below. Also, the upper 12, the
sole structure 14, and/or other aspects of the footwear 10 can
incorporate one or more of the features disclosed in U.S. Patent
Publication No. ______, to Farris et al., entitled "Article of
Footwear With Upper Having Member With Support Arm," (U.S. patent
application Ser. No. ______, which was co-filed with the present
application on ______, Attorney Docket No. 51-3225) and which is
incorporated by reference in its entirety.
[0033] Embodiments of the outsole 31 will now be discussed in
detail. As will be discussed, the outsole 31 can be thin, flexible,
and lightweight. Also, the outsole 31 can include a plurality of
projections that project downward and away from the upper 12. The
projections can project away from the upper 12 and can reduce in
width, length, or other dimension as the projections project from
the upper 12 as will be discussed. These projections can increase
traction and can resiliently deform to attenuate impact forces when
running, walking, jumping, or otherwise moving. The sole structure
14 can also have a high degree of flexibility. For example, the
outsole 31 can flex during use in such a way that the outsole 31
provides tactile feedback for the wearer. For example, when the
foot impacts the ground, the outsole 31 can flex and deform to
transfer at least some impact force to the wearer such that the
wearer can "feel" the ground to a higher degree as compared to
wearing conventional articles of footwear.
[0034] As shown in the embodiments illustrated, the outsole 31 can
include a base 38. The base 38 can also be referred to as a "web".
The base 38 can be a relatively thin sheet of flexible material
that extends continuously between the forefoot portion 16, the heel
portion 18, the medial side 20, and the lateral side 22. The base
38 can also include an upper surface 40 and a lower surface 42 that
face in opposite directions. The upper surface 40 can face the
upper 12, and the lower surface 42 can face away from the upper
surface 40 and the upper 12. Moreover, the base 38 can include a
peripheral edge 44. The peripheral edge 44 can extend continuously
about the article of footwear 10 between the forefoot portion 16,
the medial side 20, the heel portion 18, and the lateral side 22.
Moreover, the base 38 can have a thickness 46 that is measured
between the upper surface 40 and the lower surface 42. In some
embodiments, the thickness 46 is constant across the entire base
38, and in other embodiments, the thickness 46 varies across the
base 38.
[0035] The upper surface 40 of the base 38 can be relatively smooth
and can be directly attached to the upper 12. For example, the
upper surface 40 can be layered on, can abut, and can be attached
to the strobel member 37. In some embodiments, the upper surface 40
can be attached to the strobes member 37 via adhesives. In other
embodiments, the base 38 can be attached to the strobel member 37
via stitching, fasteners, or other attachment devices.
[0036] Additionally, the outsole 31 can include a plurality of
projections 48 that project from the lower surface 42 of the base
38 in a first direction generally away from the upper 12. The first
direction can be normal to the lower surface 42 in some
embodiments. The first direction can also be disposed at another
angle relative to the lower surface 42 in other embodiments. The
projections 48 can have any suitable shape. For example, the
projections 48 can have a transverse dimension 43 that is
transverse to the first direction as shown in FIGS. 1 and 4. In the
embodiments shown, the transverse dimension 43 can be considered a
width of an individual projection 48. However, the transverse
dimension 43 could be a length, circumference, radius, or other
dimension in other embodiments. As will be discussed, the
transverse dimension 43 here the width of the projection 48 can
reduce as the projection 48 projects away from the lower surface 42
in the first direction. For example, as shown in the embodiments of
FIGS. 1 and 4, the width of the projection 48 can reduce as the
projection 48 projects away from the lower surface 42.
[0037] The projections 48 can also be integrally attached to the
base 38 such that the projections 48 and base 38 are unitary,
monolithic, and form a one-piece structure. In other embodiments,
the projections 48 can be removably attached to the base 38.
[0038] The projections 48 can be shaped, configured, and arranged
on the base 38 such that the projections 48 and base 38 can flex
together when subjected to one or more input forces. This flexure
can be felt by the wearer to provide the wearer with tactile
feedback upon impacting the ground for example.
[0039] As stated, each projection 48 can reduce in the transverse
dimension 43 as the projection 48 projects away from the lower
surface 42. For example, as shown in the illustrated embodiments,
the projections 48 can be stepped. Stated differently, the
projections 48 can project from the base 38 in a plurality of steps
61 as shown in detail in FIG. 5. As such, the projections 48
decrease in the respective transverse dimension 43 as the
projection projects in the plurality of steps 61 along the first
direction.
[0040] The projections 48 can include any number of steps 61. For
example, as shown in the illustrated embodiments, the projections
48 can include at least three steps 61. These steps 61 can include
and can be defined by a plurality of riser surfaces and tread
surfaces as will be discussed in detail below.
[0041] Referring specifically to FIG. 5, exemplary embodiments of
stepped projections 48 will be discussed in detail. Although the
stepped projections 48 are substantially similar in the embodiments
of FIG. 5, it will be appreciated that the stepped projections 48
of the sole structure 14 could vary in some embodiments.
[0042] As shown in FIG. 5, the projections 48 can include a stepped
side 50 that is defined by the plurality of steps 61. The
projections 48 can also include at least one additional side that
projects from the base 38. For example, the projection 48 can
include a second side 52, a third side 54, and a fourth side 56.
The stepped side 50 projects from the base 38 in the plurality of
steps 61, and the second side 52, the third side 54, and the fourth
side 56 also project from the base 38. The projections 48 can also
include a respective ground engaging surface 67 that extends
between the stepped side 50, the second side 52, the third side 54,
and the fourth side 56. As will be described, these features can be
defined by a plurality of substantially planar surfaces; however,
these features can also be defined by contoured surfaces in other
embodiments. It will also be appreciated that the projections 48
can have any suitable shape, and the projections 48 can include any
number of sides and surfaces.
[0043] As shown in the embodiments illustrated in FIG. 5, the
stepped side 50 can generally include three steps 61. Stated
differently, the stepped side 50 can include at least three riser
surfaces, each disposed between respective tread surfaces. In some
embodiments, the riser surfaces and tread surfaces can be
substantially smooth. These surfaces can also be planar in some
embodiments, or these surfaces can be contoured in some
embodiments. Moreover, in some embodiments, the riser surfaces can
be substantially perpendicular to the tread surfaces, but in
additional embodiments, the riser surfaces can be disposed at
another angle relative to the tread surfaces.
[0044] More specifically, as shown in the embodiments of FIG. 5,
the stepped side 50 can be defined by a first riser surface 69, a
first tread surface 63, a second riser surface 71, a second tread
surface 65, and a third riser surface 73. The first riser surface
69, the first tread surface 63, the second riser surface 71, the
second tread surface 65, and the third riser surface 73 can each be
substantially planar. The first riser surface 69 can project
normally from the lower surface 42 of the base 38. The first tread
surface 63 can extend substantially perpendicular to the first
riser surface 69. The second riser surface 71 can project normally
from the first tread surface 63 and can be substantially parallel
to the first riser surface 69. The second tread surface 65 can
extend substantially perpendicular to the second riser surface 71
and can be substantially parallel to the first tread surface 63.
The third riser surface 73 can project normally from the second
tread surface 65 and can be substantially parallel to the second
riser surface 71.
[0045] The ground engaging surface 67 can extend substantially
perpendicular to the third riser surface 73 and can be
substantially parallel to the first tread surface 63 and the second
tread surface 65. Because of its similarity to the first tread
surface 63 and the second tread surface 65, the ground engaging
surface 67 could be referred to as a "third tread surface" of the
plurality of steps 61. However, for purposes of discussion, this
surface will be referred to as the ground engaging surface 67.
[0046] Thus, the first tread surface 63 can be spaced away from the
lower surface 42 of the base 38 by the first riser surface 69.
Also, the second tread surface 65 can be spaced away from the first
tread surface 63 by the second riser surface 71. Moreover, the
ground engaging surface 67 can be spaced way from the second tread
surface 65 by the third riser surface 73.
[0047] Additionally, the first riser surface 69 and the first tread
surface 63 can intersect at a first edge 81. Likewise, the second
riser surface 71 and the second tread surface 65 can intersect at a
second edge 83. Furthermore, the third riser surface 73 and the
ground engaging surface 67 can intersect at a third edge 85.
[0048] As shown in FIG. 5, the second side 52 and the fourth side
56 can each be substantially smooth and planar surfaces that extend
transversely from opposite sides of the stepped side 50. Moreover,
the third side 54 can be substantially smooth and planar, and the
third side 54 can extend between the second side 52 and the fourth
side 56. The second side 52 and the fourth side 56 can be
substantially parallel to each other, and the third side 54 can be
substantially perpendicular to the second side 52 and the fourth
side 56. The second side 52 can intersect the plurality of steps 61
at a second stepped edge 87, and the fourth side 56 can intersect
the plurality of steps 61 at a fourth stepped edge 89.
[0049] Referring now to FIGS. 2 and 3, the arrangement of the
plurality of projections 48 on the outsole 31 will now be
discussed. It will be appreciated that the projections 48 can be
arranged in any suitable fashion.
[0050] For example, as shown in FIG. 3, the projections 48 can be
disposed such that the stepped side 50 of the projections 48
generally face the forefoot portion 16 of the article of footwear
10, the second side 52 faces the medial side 20, the third side 54
faces the heel portion 18, and the fourth side 56 faces the lateral
side 22. In some embodiments, the second side 52 and the fourth
side 56 can be substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis 24,
and the third side 54 can be substantially parallel to the lateral
axis 22.
[0051] Additionally, the projections 48 can be spaced apart from
each other and arranged in any suitable pattern on the base 38 of
the outsole 31. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, the projections 48
can be spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction
and in the transverse direction. More specifically, neighboring
projections 48 can be spaced apart by a longitudinal distance 72,
which is measured substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis
24, and neighboring projections 48 can also be spaced apart by a
transverse distance 74, which is measured substantially parallel to
the lateral axis 26. As shown, the longitudinal distance 72 between
neighboring projections 48 can be equal across the outsole 31, and
the transverse distance 74 between neighboring projections 48 can
also be equal across the outsole 31.
[0052] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 3, the projections 48 can be
aligned and arranged in respective rows that extend generally
between the medial side 20 and the lateral side 22 of the article
of footwear 10. A representative first row 60, second row 62, and
third row 64 are indicated in FIG. 3, and as shown, the rows of
projections 48 can be substantially parallel to the lateral axis
26.
[0053] Also, as shown in FIG. 3, the projections 48 can be aligned
and arranged in respective columns that extend generally between
the forefoot portion 16 and the heel portion 18 of the article of
footwear 10. A representative first column 66, second column 68,
and third column 70 are indicated in FIG. 3, and as shown, the
columns of projections 48 can be substantially parallel to the
longitudinal axis 24.
[0054] For purposes of discussion, a first stepped projection 51, a
second stepped projection 53, a third stepped projection 55, a
fourth stepped projection 57, and a fifth stepped projection 59 are
indicated in FIG. 3. As shown, the first stepped projection 51 and
the second stepped projection 53 can be disposed in a common
column. Meanwhile, the third stepped projection 55, the fourth
stepped projection 57, and the fifth stepped projection 59 can be
disposed in a common column. Also, the first stepped projection 51
and the fifth stepped projection 59 can be disposed in a common row
while the second stepped projection 53 and the fourth stepped
projection 57 can be disposed in a common row.
[0055] It will be appreciated that the outsole 31 can be made from
any suitable material. For example, the outsole 31 can be made from
rubber or thermoplastic polyurethane in some embodiments. Also, the
outsole 31 can be manufactured using suitable means, such as
injection molding processes. Once formed, the outsole 31 can be
attached to the upper 12 using adhesives, stitching, fasteners, or
other attachment devices. In additional embodiments, the outsole 31
can be formed by injection molding and, the outsole 31 can be
simultaneously attached to the upper 12 during the same injection
molding process. More specifically, the upper 12 can be fit to a
foot-shaped last, the upper 12 can be partially inserted inside a
mold cavity, and molten material of the outsole 31 can then be
introduced into the mold cavity. The material can cure inside the
mold cavity to form the shape of the outsole 31 and to also attach
to the upper 12. In still additional embodiments, the outsole 31
can be removably attached to the upper 12. For example, the
outsole. 31 can attach to the upper 12 as disclosed in U.S. Pat.
No. 7,543,399 to Kilgore et al., which issued on Jun. 9, 2009, and
which is incorporated by reference in its entirety. Also, in this
embodiment, the upper 12 can be supplied to a wearer with multiple
different outsoles 31, and the wearer can select which of the
outsoles 31 to attach to the upper. These outsoles 31 can vary in
color, shape, dimension, or in any other characteristic.
[0056] In some embodiments, the outsole 31 can resiliently
flexible. This can be due to the material used to make the outsole
31 as well as the shape, arrangement, and spacing of the plurality
of projections 48. Moreover, the thickness 46 of the base 38 can be
relatively low to enhance the flexibility of the outsole 31.
[0057] Furthermore, as discussed above, the projections 48 can be
spaced apart along the lateral axis 26. As such, the projections 48
can individually or collectively flex relative to the base 38
toward the medial side 20 and/or toward the lateral side 22. The
projections 48 can be also spaced along the longitudinal axis 24.
As such, the projections 48 individually or collectively flex
toward the forefoot portion 16 and the heel portion 18 as will be
discussed in detail below.
[0058] For example, the outsole 31 can be at rest in a neutral
position shown in FIGS. 1, 3-6, and 9. The outsole 31 can be
disposed in this neutral position when not under the influence of
an external input load. In this neutral position, the plurality of
projections 48 can be shaped as discussed above, with respective
surfaces being generally planar. Also, first tread surface 63,
second tread surface 65, and ground engaging surface 67 can be
substantially parallel to the surrounding base 38 as shown in FIGS.
6 and 9. Also, the base 38 of the outsole 31 can be substantially
smooth and substantially parallel to the ground 33 when in this
neutral position.
[0059] However, the projections 48 and/or the base 38 can
resiliently flex away from the neutral position under the influence
of an external load. Specifically, when the footwear 10 impacts the
ground 33 during running, walking, or jumping, the projections 48
and/or base 38 can resiliently flex away from the neutral position
shown in FIGS. 1, 3, 4, 5, and 6.
[0060] For example, as shown in FIG. 7, the projections 48 can
deform, resiliently flex, bend, and/or rotate about a transverse
bending axis 78 into a first flexed position. It will be
appreciated that transverse bending axis 78 can extend between the
medial side 20 and the lateral side 22 of the footwear 10 as shown
in FIG. 7. Specifically, the projections 48 can bend and rotate in
a rearward or substantially counterclockwise direction about the
bending axis 78. This flexure can occur, for example, when the
outsole 31 impacts the ground 33 with forward momentum. As shown,
the projections 48 can deform such that one or more surfaces can
become contoured. Also, at least one of the first edge 81, the
second edge 83, and the third edge 85 can contact the ground 33. In
contrast, as shown in FIG. 8, the projections 48 can also deform,
resiliently flex, bend, and/or rotate in the opposite direction
about the bending axis 78. This flexure can occur, for example,
when the outsole 31 impacts the ground 33 with rearward
momentum.
[0061] Still further, as shown in FIG. 10, the projections 48 can
deform, resiliently flex, bend, and/or rotate in a counterclockwise
direction about a longitudinal bending axis 76. It will be
appreciated that the longitudinal bending axis 76 can extend
between the forefoot portion 16 and the heel portion 18 of the
footwear 10. This can occur, for example, when the outsole 31
impacts the ground 33 with laterally-directed momentum. In
contrast, as shown in FIG. 11, the projections 48 can deform,
resiliently flex, bend, and/or rotate in the opposite direction
about the axis 76. This can occur, for example, when the outsole 31
impacts the ground 33 with medially-directed momentum. As shown in
FIGS. 10 and 11, transverse flexure of the projections 48 can cause
the second side 52 and fourth side 56 to become contoured, and the
projections 48 can flex such that the projections 48 become
supported on the ground 33 by the second stepped edge 87 or the
fourth stepped edge 89.
[0062] The thickness of the base 38 can be relatively low for
enhancing this flexibility of the outsole 31. For example, in some
embodiments, the thickness 46 of the base 38 can be at most thirty
percent (30%) of a total thickness 13 of the outsole 31. In some
further embodiments, the thickness 46 of the base 38 can be at most
twenty-five percent (25%) of a total thickness 13 of the outsole
31. Also, the thickness 46 of the base 38 can measure at most
approximately 1.5 millimeters in some embodiments. This low
thickness 46 of the base 38 can allow the base 38 and the
projections 48 to flex together in concert when impacting the
ground 33.
[0063] For example, the base 38 can be substantially smooth in the
neutral, unloaded position of FIGS. 6 and 9. However, the base 38
can flex with the projections 48 as shown in FIGS. 7, 8, 10, and 11
due to impact with the ground 33. Specifically, the areas of the
base 38 between the projections 48 can flex such that the base 38
becomes contoured and wavy as shown in the illustrated embodiments.
The base 38 can, therefore, push upwards on the strobel member 37
and move the strobel member 37 causing the upper surface 39 of the
strobel member 37 to push upward on the wearer's foot. It will be
appreciated that the amount of flexure and/or waviness of the base
38 shown in FIGS. 7, 8, 10, and 11 is an example, and that this
amount of waviness can vary depending on the dimensions of the base
38, the weight of the wearer pressing down on the base 38, or other
factors. Also, in some embodiments, the base 38 can remain
substantially smooth during flexure of the outsole 31.
[0064] Once the outsole 31 is unloaded, the base 38 and the
projections 48 can resiliently return to the neutral position shown
in FIGS. 1, 3-6, and 9. As a result, the strobel member 37 can also
return to a relatively smooth configuration. This flexure and
recovery of outsole 31 and strobel member 37 can be repeated as the
wearer runs, walks, jumps or during other ambulatory
activities.
[0065] Additionally, this flexure of the outsole 31 can cause the
outsole 31 to absorb and ameliorate impact loads. This can increase
comfort and support for the wearer. The recovery of the outsole 31
can additionally provide energy return to the wearer in some
embodiments.
[0066] Also, in some embodiments, the flexure and deformation of
the projections 48, the base 38 of the outsole 31, and/or the
strobel member 37 of the upper 12 can be felt by the wearer of the
article of footwear 10. The wearer is likely to feel this flexure
and deformation in embodiments where the outsole 31 is attached
directly to the upper 12 without a midsole.
[0067] For example, when the base 38 flexes from its smooth
configuration to its wavy configuration shown in FIGS. 7, 8, 10,
and 11, the outsole 31 can press upward onto the exterior surface
41 of the strobel member 37, causing the strobe/member 37 to become
wavy and press upwards on the wearer's foot. Forces on the
projections 48 can also transfer to the base 38 to increase
waviness in the base 38, thereby creating pressure points on the
wearer's foot. This can provide a pleasurable, massaging sensation
to the wearer in some embodiments. This can also provide a
proprioceptive signal to the wearer in some embodiments, for
example, facilitating the wearer's ability to "feel" the position
of the foot in relation to the ground 33. Moreover, as the footwear
10 first impacts the ground 33, the resulting tactile sensation can
prepare the wearer for the full impact load, and the wearer can
more efficiently flex foot and leg muscles to absorb the loading
and prepare for the next step, stride, or forward thrust.
[0068] Furthermore, the plurality of the steps 61 on the
projections 48 can allow the projections 48 to flex in a desirable
manner. For example, as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the steps 61 can
allow the projection 48 to flex readily in one direction about the
transverse bending axis 78, and the projection 48 can be stiffer in
the opposite direction. However, as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the
steps 61 can allow the projection 48 to have substantially the same
stiffness in both directions about the longitudinal bending axis
78. Accordingly, the outsole 31 can be configured to have a primary
mode of flexure that provides the wearer with especially effective
cushioning, proprioceptive qualities, and the like.
[0069] Additionally, the plurality of steps 61 can allow the
projections 48 to flex without losing traction. More specifically,
as shown in FIG. 7, the projections 48 can flex such that the
projection 48 becomes substantially supported on the ground 33 by
at least one of the first edge 81, the second edge 83, and the
third edge 85. In the embodiments illustrated, these edges can
provide lines of contact where pressure can concentrate and help
increase traction.
[0070] Referring now to FIGS. 12 and 13, additional embodiments of
the article of footwear 100 are illustrated according to the
present disclosure. The footwear 100 can share some common features
with the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1-11. For purposes of brevity,
the common features will not be repeated with respect to FIGS. 12
and 13. However, features that are unique to the embodiments of
FIGS. 12 and 13 will be described in detail.
[0071] As shown, the article of footwear 100 can include a
plurality of stepped projections 148. The stepped projections 148
can include a plurality of first projections 119 that are arranged
in respective rows that extend between the medial side 120 and
lateral side 122, similar to the embodiments of FIGS. 1-11. The
first projections 119 can also be arranged in respective columns
that extend between the forefoot portion 116 and the heel portion
118, similar to the embodiments of FIGS. 1-11.
[0072] Moreover, the article of footwear 100 can also include a
plurality of second stepped projections 149. The plurality of
second stepped projections 149 can be wedge-shaped and can be
arranged in a ring 147 on the outsole 131. In some embodiments, the
ring 147 can be disposed on the outsole 131 so as to be located
underneath the ball of the wearer's foot, for example, underneath
the metatarsal of the wearer's big toe. Also, neighboring secondary
stepped projections 149 can be spaced apart within the ring
147.
[0073] It is noted that, in the embodiments of FIGS. 12 and 13,
each of the plurality of steps 161 generally face the forefoot
portion 116 of the footwear 100. Accordingly, the steps 161 can
provide the advantages discussed above with respect to the
embodiments of FIGS. 12 and 13. Also, because the secondary stepped
projections 149 are arranged in the ring 147, the secondary stepped
projections 149 can provide comfort, proprioceptive signals, or
otherwise support for the ball of the wearer's foot. This can be
effective because this area of the wearer's foot can experience a
high degree of loading during walking, running, jumping, and other
ambulatory activities.
[0074] The foregoing description of the embodiments has been
provided for purposes of illustration and description. It is not
intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present disclosure.
Individual elements or features of a particular embodiment are
generally not limited to that particular embodiment, but, where
applicable, are interchangeable and can be used in a selected
embodiment, even if not specifically shown or described. The same
may also be varied in many ways. Such variations are not to be
regarded as a departure from the present disclosure, and all such
modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the
present disclosure.
* * * * *