U.S. patent application number 16/015322 was filed with the patent office on 2018-12-27 for article of footwear with a pronation feedback system.
This patent application is currently assigned to NIKE, Inc.. The applicant listed for this patent is Nike, Inc.. Invention is credited to Christopher S. Cook, Fabricio da Costa Pereira Machado, Shane S. Kohatsu.
Application Number | 20180368509 16/015322 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 62904636 |
Filed Date | 2018-12-27 |
United States Patent
Application |
20180368509 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Cook; Christopher S. ; et
al. |
December 27, 2018 |
ARTICLE OF FOOTWEAR WITH A PRONATION FEEDBACK SYSTEM
Abstract
An article of footwear includes an upper and a sole structure
secured to the upper to define an interior cavity. The sole
structure comprises a base portion and a sidewall that surrounds a
substantial perimeter of the base portion. The article of footwear
comprises a pronation feedback system that includes a support
structure extending from the sidewall and along the upper at a
medial side of the sole structure. The support structure is
configured to provide proprioceptive feedback to a wearer
corresponding with a rate of pronation of a foot disposed in the
interior cavity during a pronation event.
Inventors: |
Cook; Christopher S.;
(Portland, OR) ; da Costa Pereira Machado; Fabricio;
(Portland, OR) ; Kohatsu; Shane S.; (Portland,
OR) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Nike, Inc. |
Beaverton |
OR |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
NIKE, Inc.
Beaverton
OR
|
Family ID: |
62904636 |
Appl. No.: |
16/015322 |
Filed: |
June 22, 2018 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
62524869 |
Jun 26, 2017 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A43B 7/24 20130101; A43B
7/1455 20130101; A43B 13/14 20130101; A43B 7/142 20130101; A43B
7/141 20130101; A43B 23/0265 20130101; A43B 7/14 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A43B 7/14 20060101
A43B007/14; A43B 23/02 20060101 A43B023/02; A43B 13/14 20060101
A43B013/14 |
Claims
1. An article of footwear comprising: an upper and a sole structure
secured to the upper to define an interior cavity; the sole
structure comprising a base portion and a sidewall that surrounds a
substantial perimeter of the base portion; and a pronation feedback
system including a support structure extending from the sidewall
and along the upper at a medial side of the sole structure; wherein
the support structure is configured to provide proprioceptive
feedback corresponding with a rate of pronation of a foot disposed
in the interior cavity.
2. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein: the support
structure provides a first impulse to a medial side of wearer's
foot in response to a first rate of pronation; the support
structure provides a second impulse to the medial side of the
wearer's foot in response to a second rate of pronation; and the
first rate of pronation is different than the second rate of
pronation, and the first impulse is different than the second
impulse.
3. The article of footwear of claim 2, wherein the first impulse
and the second impulse are forces against the foot.
4. The article of footwear of claim 2, wherein the first impulse
reduces the first rate of pronation.
5. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the support
structure extends only in a midfoot region of the sole
structure.
6. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the support
structure includes a set of elongated members, and an exterior
surface of the set of elongated members is continuously formed with
the sidewall of the sole structure.
7. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the support
structure includes a set of elongated members, and an interior
surface of the set of elongated members is continuous with an
interior surface of the sole structure.
8. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the support
structure is interior to an inner surface of the upper.
9. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the support
structure is exterior to an exterior surface of the upper.
10. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the support
structure comprises a set of elongated members.
11. The article of footwear of claim 10, wherein the elongated
members splay apart from one another.
12. The article of footwear of claim 10, wherein at least some of
the elongated members are spaced apart from and not in contact with
one another.
13. The article of footwear of claim 10, wherein at least some of
the elongated members have adjacent sides in contact with one
another.
14. The article of footwear of claim 10, wherein at least some of
the elongated members have different lengths.
15. The article of footwear of claim 14, wherein a forwardmost one
of the elongated members and a rearward most one of the elongated
members are shorter than at least one of the elongated members
between the forwardmost one and the rearward most one.
16. The article of footwear of claim 10, wherein the elongated
members extend from a midfoot region of the sole structure, a
forwardmost one of the elongated members curves forward toward a
forefoot region of the sole structure, and a rearward most one of
the elongated members curves rearward toward a heel region of the
sole structure.
17. The article of footwear of claim 10, wherein the elongated
members are straight.
18. The article of footwear of claim 10, wherein a space between
two adjacent ones of the elongated members is entirely above a bite
line of the upper and the sole structure forward of and rearward of
the support structure.
19. A method of reducing a rate of pronation of a wearer of an
article of footwear, the method comprising: providing a first
impulse to a medial side of wearer's foot in response to a first
rate of pronation; the first impulse provided by a pronation
feedback system that includes a support structure extending from a
sidewall of a sole structure at a medial side of the sole structure
and along an upper secured to the sole structure, the wearer's foot
disposed in an interior cavity defined by the upper and the sole
structure; providing a second impulse to the medial side of the
wearer's foot in response to a second rate of pronation; the second
impulse provided by the pronation feedback system; wherein the
first rate of pronation is different than the second rate of
pronation, and wherein the first impulse is different than the
second impulse.
20. The method of claim 19, wherein the support structure comprises
a set of elongated members, and the first impulse and the second
impulse are reaction forces provided by the elongated members
against the wearer's foot.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S.
Provisional Application No. 62/524,869 filed on Jun. 26, 2017,
which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.
BACKGROUND
[0002] The present embodiments relate generally to articles of
footwear, and in particular to articles with cushioning provisions
and methods of making such articles.
[0003] Articles of footwear generally include two primary elements:
an upper and a sole member. 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 the
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.
[0004] The sole member is secured to a lower portion of the upper
so as to be positioned between the foot and the ground. In athletic
footwear, for example, the sole member includes a midsole and an
outsole. The various sole components may be formed from a polymer
foam material that attenuates ground reaction forces (i.e.,
provides cushioning) during walking, running, and other ambulatory
activities. The sole may also include fluid-filled chambers,
plates, moderators, or other elements that further attenuate
forces, enhance stability, or influence the motions of the foot,
for example.
SUMMARY
[0005] In one aspect, the present disclosure is directed to an
article of footwear that comprises an upper and a sole structure
secured to the upper to define an interior cavity. The sole
structure comprises a base portion and a sidewall that surrounds a
substantial perimeter of the base portion. The article of footwear
comprises a pronation feedback system that includes a support
structure extending from the sidewall and along the upper at a
medial side of the sole structure. The support structure is
configured to provide proprioceptive feedback corresponding with a
rate of pronation of a foot disposed in the interior cavity.
[0006] In one aspect, the support structure may provide a first
impulse to a medial side of wearer's foot in response to a first
rate of pronation, and a second impulse to the medial side of the
wearer's foot in response to a second rate of pronation. The first
rate of pronation is different than the second rate of pronation,
and the first impulse is different than the second impulse. For
example, the first impulse and the second impulse may be forces
against the foot, and the first impulse may reduce the first rate
of pronation. In one or more embodiments, the support structure
extends only in a midfoot region of the sole structure.
[0007] In one aspect, the support structure includes a set of
elongated members, and an exterior surface of the set of elongated
members is continuously formed with the sidewall of the sole
structure. In an alternative aspect, the support structure includes
a set of elongated members, and an interior surface of the set of
elongated members is continuous with an interior surface of the
sole structure. The support structure is interior to an inner
surface of the upper in one or more embodiments. In one or more
other embodiments, the support structure is exterior to an exterior
surface of the upper.
[0008] The elongated members may splay apart from one another. At
least some of the elongated members may be spaced apart from and
not in contact with one another. At least some of the elongated
members may have adjacent sides in contact with one another.
[0009] At least some of the elongated members may have different
lengths. For example, a forwardmost one of the elongated members
and a rearward most one of the elongated members may be shorter
than at least one of the elongated members between the forwardmost
one and the rearward most one.
[0010] In one or more embodiments, the elongated members extend
from a midfoot region of the sole structure, a forwardmost one of
the elongated members curves forward toward a forefoot region of
the sole structure, and a rearward most one of the elongated
members curves rearward toward a heel region of the sole structure.
In one or more other embodiments, the elongated members are
straight.
[0011] In one or more embodiments, a space between two adjacent
ones of the elongated members is entirely above a bite line of the
upper and the sole structure forward of and rearward of the support
structure.
[0012] In another aspect, the disclosure is directed toward a
method of reducing a rate of pronation of a wearer of an article of
footwear. The method comprises providing a first impulse to a
medial side of wearer's foot in response to a first rate of
pronation with the wearer's foot disposed in an interior cavity
defined by the upper and the sole structure. The first impulse is
provided by a pronation feedback system that includes a support
structure extending from a sidewall of a sole structure at a medial
side of the sole structure and along an upper secured to the sole
structure. The method further comprises providing a second impulse
to the medial side of the wearer's foot in response to a second
rate of pronation. The second impulse is also provided by the
pronation feedback system. The first rate of pronation is different
than the second rate of pronation, and the first impulse is
different than the second impulse. In one or more embodiments, the
support structure comprises a set of elongated members, and the
first impulse and the second impulse are reaction forces provided
by the elongated members against the wearer's foot.
[0013] In one aspect, the present disclosure is directed to an
article of footwear with a pronation control and feedback system.
The article of footwear comprises an upper and a sole structure,
where the sole structure comprises a base portion and a sidewall
that surrounds a substantial perimeter of the base portion. In
addition, there is a set of elongated members integrally formed
along a medial side of the sole structure, and each of the
plurality of elongated members extends from a portion of the sole
structure to the upper. The set of elongated members provides a
first impulse to a medial side of wearer's foot in response to a
first rate of pronation and the set of elongated members provides a
second impulse to the medial side of the wearer's foot in response
to a second rate of pronation. The first rate of pronation is
different than the second rate of pronation, and the first impulse
is different than the second impulse.
[0014] In another aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a
method of reducing a rate of pronation using an article of footwear
comprising a pronation feedback system, where the pronation
feedback system includes a sole structure with a plurality of
elongated members. The method comprises providing a first impulse
to a medial side of wearer's foot in response to a first rate of
pronation, and providing a second impulse to the medial side of the
wearer's foot in response to a second rate of pronation. The first
rate of pronation is different than the second rate of pronation,
and the first impulse is different than the second impulse.
[0015] 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
[0016] 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.
[0017] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of an embodiment of an article
of footwear with a pronation feedback system;
[0018] FIG. 2A is a cross-sectional view of the article of footwear
of FIG. 1 taken at lines 2A-2A in FIG. 1;
[0019] FIG. 2B is an alternate configuration of the article of
footwear with the pronation feedback system of FIG. 1;
[0020] FIG. 3 is an isometric view of an embodiment of a sole
structure;
[0021] FIG. 4 is an isometric view of an embodiment of a sole
structure;
[0022] FIG. 5 is an isometric view of an embodiment of a sole
structure;
[0023] FIG. 6 is an isometric view of an embodiment of a sole
structure;
[0024] FIG. 7 is a rear fragmentary view of a pair of feet of a
user experiencing pronation showing footwear in cross-sectional
view on the feet;
[0025] FIG. 8 is a schematic graph of a sequence of foot positions
during a gait cycle with time on the horizontal axis and
illustrating three different rates of pronation;
[0026] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of an
article of footwear with a pronation feedback system during
pronation;
[0027] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a conventional article
of footwear during pronation;
[0028] FIG. 11 is an isometric view of an article of footwear with
an embodiment of a sole structure; and
[0029] FIG. 12 is an isometric view of an article of footwear with
an embodiment of a sole structure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0030] FIG. 1 depicts an isometric view of an embodiment of an
article of footwear 100. In one embodiment, article of footwear 100
has the form of an athletic shoe. The provisions discussed herein
for article of footwear 100 could be incorporated into various
other kinds of footwear including, but not limited to, basketball
shoes, hiking boots, soccer shoes, football shoes, sneakers,
running shoes, cross-training shoes, rugby shoes, rowing shoes,
baseball shoes as well as other kinds of shoes. Moreover, in some
embodiments, the provisions discussed herein for article of
footwear 100 could be incorporated into various other kinds of
non-sports-related footwear, including, but not limited to,
slippers, sandals, high-heeled footwear, and loafers.
[0031] For purposes of clarity, the following detailed description
discusses the features of article of footwear 100, also referred to
simply as article 100. However, it will be understood that other
embodiments may incorporate a corresponding article of footwear
(e.g., a right article of footwear when article 100 is a left
article of footwear) that may share some, and possibly all, of the
features of article 100 described herein and shown in the
figures.
[0032] As will be discussed in detail further below, in different
embodiments, article 100 may include provisions for providing
tactile feedback, support, and/or sensory information to the user.
In some embodiments, article 100 may include a pronation feedback
system or dynamic response portion associated with the article. It
should be understood that the following figures are for purposes of
illustration only, and each of the components described herein may
be included or referred to in the description while not illustrated
in the figures.
[0033] 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., an upper or sole
component). A longitudinal direction may extend along a
longitudinal axis, which itself extends between a forefoot region
and a heel region 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. A lateral
direction may extend along a lateral axis, which itself extends
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 extending along
a vertical axis, which itself is generally perpendicular to a
lateral axis and a longitudinal axis. For example, in cases where
an article is planted flat on a ground surface, a vertical
direction may extend from the ground surface upward. This detailed
description makes use of these directional adjectives in describing
an article and various components of the article, including an
upper, a midsole structure, and/or an outer sole structure.
[0034] The term "side," as used in this specification and in the
claims, refers to any portion of a component facing generally in a
lateral, medial, forward, or rearward direction, as opposed to an
upward or downward direction. The term "upward" refers to the
vertical direction heading away from a ground surface, while the
term "downward" refers to the vertical direction heading toward the
ground surface. Similarly, the terms "top," "upper," and other
similar terms refer to the portion of an object substantially
furthest from the ground in a vertical direction, and the terms
"bottom," "lower," and other similar terms refer to the portion of
an object substantially closest to the ground in a vertical
direction.
[0035] The "interior" of a shoe refers to space that is occupied by
a wearer's foot when the shoe is worn. The "inner side" of a panel
or other shoe element refers to the face of that panel or element
that is (or will be) oriented toward the shoe interior in a
completed shoe. The "outer side" or "exterior" of an element refers
to the face of that element that is (or will be) oriented away from
the shoe interior in the completed shoe. In some cases, the inner
side of an element may have other elements between that inner side
and the interior in the completed shoe. Similarly, an outer side of
an element may have other elements between that outer side and the
space external to the completed shoe. Further, the terms "inward"
and "inwardly" shall refer to the direction toward the interior of
the shoe, and the terms "outward" and "outwardly" shall refer to
the direction toward the exterior of the shoe.
[0036] In addition, the term "proximal" refers to a direction that
is nearer a center of a footwear component, or is closer toward a
foot when the foot is inserted in the article as it is worn by a
user. Likewise, the term "distal" refers to a relative position
that is further away from a center of the footwear component or
upper. Thus, the terms proximal and distal may be understood to
provide generally opposing terms to describe the relative spatial
position of a footwear layer. For example, with reference to a sole
structure, the distal direction is the direction away from or
further from the sole structure, while the proximal direction is
the direction towards or closer to the sole structure.
[0037] For purposes of this disclosure, the foregoing directional
terms, when used in reference to an article of footwear, shall
refer to the article of footwear when sitting in an upright
position, with the sole facing groundward, that is, as it would be
positioned when worn by a wearer standing on a substantially level
surface.
[0038] In addition, for purposes of this disclosure, the term
"fixedly attached" shall refer to two components joined in a manner
such that the components may not be readily separated (for example,
without destroying one or both of the components). Exemplary
modalities of fixed attachment may include joining with permanent
adhesive, rivets, stitches, nails, staples, welding or other
thermal bonding, or other joining techniques. In addition, two
components may be "fixedly attached" by virtue of being integrally
formed, for example, in a molding process.
[0039] For purposes of this disclosure, the term "removably
attached" or "removably inserted" shall refer to the joining of two
components or a component and an element in a manner such that the
two components are secured together, but may be readily detached
from one another. Examples of removable attachment mechanisms may
include hook and loop fasteners, friction fit connections,
interference fit connections, threaded connectors, cam-locking
connectors, compression of one material with another, and other
such readily detachable connectors.
[0040] Thus, the embodiments may be characterized by various
directional adjectives and reference portions. These directions and
reference portions may facilitate in describing the portions of an
article of footwear. Moreover, these directions and reference
portions may also be used in describing subcomponents of an article
of footwear (e.g., directions and/or portions of a midsole
structure, an outer sole structure, a support structure, which may
include elongated members, an upper, or any other components).
[0041] For purposes of reference, article 100 may be characterized
by a number of different regions or portions. For example, article
100 could include a forefoot region, a midfoot region, a heel
region, a vamp portion, and an instep portion. Moreover, the
various components of article 100 could likewise comprise
corresponding portions. Referring to FIG. 1, article 100 may be
divided into forefoot region 105, midfoot region 125, and heel
region 145. Forefoot region 105 may be generally associated with
the toes and joints connecting the metatarsals with the phalanges.
Midfoot region 125 may be generally associated with the arch of a
foot. Likewise, heel region 145 may be generally associated with
the heel of a foot, including the calcaneus bone.
[0042] In addition, article 100 may include a lateral side 165 and
a medial side 185. In particular, lateral side 165 and medial side
185 may be opposing sides of article 100. Furthermore, both lateral
side 165 and medial side 185 may extend through forefoot region
105, midfoot region 125, and heel region 145.
[0043] Referring to FIG. 1, for reference purposes, a lateral axis
190 of article 100, and any components related to article 100, may
extend between medial side 185 and lateral side 165 of the foot.
Additionally, in some embodiments, longitudinal axis 180 may extend
from forefoot region 105 to a heel region 145. It will be
understood that each of these directional adjectives may also be
applied to individual components of an article of footwear, such as
an upper and/or a sole member. In addition, a vertical axis 170
refers to the axis perpendicular to a horizontal surface defined by
longitudinal axis 180 and lateral axis 190.
[0044] FIG. 1 illustrates various features and components of
article of footwear 100, including an upper 102 and a sole
structure 130. FIG. 1 provides an isometric lateral view of an
embodiment of the exterior of article 100, where a portion of the
upper is illustrated in phantom to expose the interior of article
100.
[0045] Depending on the material of upper 102, in some embodiments,
upper 102 may be configured to stretch fit over a foot without the
need for additional fasteners. However, in other embodiments, the
use of one or more fasteners may allow upper 102 to enlarge or
tighten over a foot and/or provide the needed amount of tension to
keep article 100 on the foot. For example, in some embodiments, a
lace can extend through various apertures or other securing
elements and permit the wearer to modify the dimensions of upper
102 to accommodate the proportions of the foot. More particularly,
a lace may permit the wearer to tighten portions of upper 102
around the foot, and the lace can permit the wearer to loosen upper
102 to facilitate entry and removal of the foot from article 100.
In alternative embodiments, upper 102 may include other
lace-receiving elements, such as loops, eyelets, and D-rings. In
addition, upper 102 may include a tongue in some embodiments. In
other embodiments, there may be other types of fasteners such as
straps, cords, clips, or other fastening mechanisms.
[0046] Furthermore, in some embodiments, various portions of layers
of sole structure 130 may be configured to provide traction for
article 100. Thus, in different embodiments, traction elements may
be included in sole structure 130. In addition to providing
traction, sole structure 130 may attenuate ground reaction forces
when compressed between the foot and the ground during walking,
running, pushing, or other ambulatory activities. The configuration
of sole structure 130 may vary significantly in different
embodiments to include a variety of conventional or nonconventional
structures. In some embodiments, the configuration of sole
structure 130 can be configured according to one or more types of
surfaces on which sole structure 130 may be used. Examples of
surfaces include, but are not limited to, natural turf, synthetic
turf, dirt, hardwood flooring, skims, wood, plates, footboards,
boat ramps, as well as other surfaces.
[0047] The various portions of sole structure 130 may be formed
from a variety of materials. For example, sole structure 130 may
include a compressible polymer foam element (e.g., polyurethane or
ethylvinylacetate foam) that attenuates ground reaction forces
(i.e., provides cushioning) when compressed between the foot and
the ground during walking, running, or other ambulatory activities.
In further configurations, sole structure 130 may incorporate
fluid-filled chambers, plates, moderators, or other elements that
further attenuate forces, enhance stability, or influence the
motions of the foot. Furthermore, other portions of sole structure
130, such as an outsole, can be formed from a wear-resistant rubber
material that is textured to impart traction. It should be
understood that the embodiments herein depict a configuration for
sole structure 130 as an example of a sole structure that may be
used in connection with upper 102, and a variety of other
conventional or nonconventional configurations for sole structure
130 may also be utilized. Accordingly, the structure and features
of sole structure 130 or any sole structure utilized with upper 102
may vary considerably.
[0048] Sole structure 130 is secured to upper 102 and extends
between a foot and the ground when article 100 is worn. In
different embodiments, sole structure 130 may include different
components. For example, sole structure 130 may include an outsole.
Sole structure 130 may further include a midsole and/or an insole.
In some embodiments, one or more of these components may be
optional. In addition, sole structure 130 may include components or
portions that extend toward and/or attach to a portion of upper
102. Such components may provide additional support and compressive
strength to article 100.
[0049] In different embodiments, upper 102 may be joined to sole
structure 130 and define an interior cavity 106 designed to receive
a wearer's foot. In some embodiments, upper 102 includes a mouth
opening that provides access for the foot into interior cavity 106
of upper 102.
[0050] Upper 102 may generally incorporate various provisions
associated with uppers. Upper 102 may also be characterized by one
or more layers disposed adjacent to one another. In some
embodiments, each layer of upper 102 can be configured to provide
various degrees of cushioning, tension, ventilation, shock
absorption, energy return, support, as well as possibly other
provisions.
[0051] Referring again to FIG. 1, it can be seen that in some
embodiments, article 100 can include various structural components
that are disposed within, integrally formed with, or associated
with sole structure 130. In some embodiments, article 100 can
include a first pronation feedback system ("first system") 150. For
purposes of this disclosure a pronation feedback system is a system
associated with article 100 that can provide a user with various
tactile-sensory feedback, support, and/or information regarding the
motion and/or position of the user's foot as it is positioned
within the article.
[0052] An article of footwear can include a pronation feedback
system that may take on various forms. In some embodiments, the
pronation feedback system is internal to the footwear. In some
embodiments, the pronation feedback system is integrated into the
footwear. For example, the components of the pronation feedback
system can be made of the same material as the remainder of the
sole structure, and be formed as "one-piece" with the sole
structure. In other embodiments, the pronation feedback system is
removable. In some embodiments, the pronation feedback system
connects to the upper. In other embodiments, the pronation feedback
system connects to the sole structure. In still other embodiments,
the pronation feedback system extends between the upper and the
sole structure. In some of those embodiments, the pronation
feedback system extends between the upper and the sole structure
via the void (also known as the interior cavity) between the upper
and the sole structure. Further still, in some of those
embodiments, the feedback system extends between the upper and sole
structure away from the peripheral edge of the upper and sole
structure.
[0053] In some embodiments, first system 150 may comprise one or
more "sole extensions" or elongated members 160. In some
embodiments, elongated members 160 extend from the sole structure
and/or comprise a portion of the sole structure. An elongated
member for purposes of this disclosure can include provisions for
increasing flexibility, fit, comfort, and/or stability, as well as
proving sensory information or tactile feedback to a user during
deformation or use of the elongated member or the article
incorporating the elongated member. Further, in one or more
embodiments, an elongate member as part of a support structure may
provide structural support a wearer's foot to physically reduce the
rate of pronation in addition to providing feedback, e.g., a
proprioceptive feedback, to the wearer regarding pronation of the
wearer's foot, as will be discussed further below. For example, in
one or more embodiments, the support structure, which may include
an elongate member, may provide support to physically reduce the
rate of pronation, e.g., a peak rate of pronation, of the wearer's
foot. The wearer's rate of pronation, including the peak rate of
pronation, may be lower when the wearer runs barefoot without
footwear when compared to the wearer's rate of pronation while
wearing footwear. In one embodiment, the support structure may
reduce the rate of pronation, including the peak rate of pronation
of the wearer's foot, to a rate closer to the wearer's barefoot
pronation rate, which may reduce the likelihood of injury to the
wearer.
[0054] In one embodiment, portions of a sole structure or sole
member may incorporate or otherwise include an elongated member. In
some embodiments, one or more elongated members may be joined to or
integrally formed with a layer or portion of sole structure 130. In
another embodiment, one or more elongated members may be embedded
or fixedly attached to a portion of sole structure 130. In the
embodiment of FIG. 1, elongated members 160 extend from a base
portion 155 of sole structure 130. In one embodiment, elongated
members 160 can be fixedly attached to the surface of a midsole. In
some embodiments, elongated members 160 can be disposed within
interior cavity 106, adjacent to medial side 185 of the inwardly
facing surface 187 of upper 102. For example, FIG. 2B shows an
alternative pronation feedback system 150A with such a
configuration. In other embodiments, as shown herein, elongated
members 160 can be external to upper 102. In some embodiments,
elongated members 160 can extend or wrap around a medial side
portion of the outer surface 189 (also called the exterior surface)
of upper 102. In other words, one or more elongated members 160 can
directly contact the exterior surface 189 of upper 102 in one
embodiment, such as shown and described with respect to FIGS. 2A
and. 11.
[0055] In FIG. 1, a plurality of elongated members 160 are shown.
In some embodiments, two or more elongated members 160 may be
arranged adjacent to and/or contiguous with one another. The
elongated members 160 include first member 162, second member 163,
third member 164, fourth member 166, fifth member 167, sixth member
168, and seventh member 169. For example, as shown in FIG. 1,
elongated members 160 are arranged in a manner similar to a wave,
array, or a portion of a starburst, extending upward from base
portion 155 of sole structure 130 in a direction substantially
aligned with vertical axis 170. In some embodiments, elongated
members 160 may be configured to form a fan-like array of elongated
members, which can comprise first system 150. However, it should be
understood that in other embodiments, elongated members 160 may be
arranged further apart from or spaced from one another, or they may
be arranged closer together, as will be discussed in further detail
below. In addition, in some embodiments, elongated members 160 can
vary in shape and dimensions, including length, width, and
thickness.
[0056] Furthermore, in different embodiments, a pronation system
may be disposed or located in different portions of article 100. In
some embodiments, a pronation system can be disposed in forefoot
region 105, midfoot region 125, and/or heel region 145. In FIG. 1,
the pronation system is disposed in midfoot region 125.
Furthermore, elongated members 160 are arranged such that they are
disposed along medial side 185 of upper 102. However, in other
embodiments, elongated members 160 can also be disposed along
and/or through multiple regions of an article of footwear,
including lateral side 165. In some embodiments, elongated members
160 extend radially outward and/or upward from the sidewall or the
base portion of the sole structure. In one embodiment, elongated
members 160 are arranged such that they "splay" outward from a base
portion 155 of the sole structure 130, extending away from the
ground-contact surface 142 of the sole structure 130, and beginning
above where a bite line BL at the top edge of the sidewall 300 is
disposed forward of and rearward of the elongated members 160.
[0057] Embodiments may include provisions for fitting the curvature
of the lengths of the elongated members to the shape of a wearer's
foot at different locations along the foot. In other words, in some
embodiments, one or more elongated members can include a curvature
that is configured to directly contact or wrap around a portion of
a user's foot (or the user's sock) when the article of footwear is
in use. In some embodiments, the elongated members include a
curvature that is arranged to generally fit the shape of a wearer's
foot along the midfoot on the medial side. In one embodiment, one
or more of the elongated members can conform to a wearer's arch. In
other embodiments, the elongated members are arranged to fit the
shape of a wearer's foot at the heel or forefoot. In still other
embodiments, the elongated members are arranged to fit the shape of
a wearer's foot at a combination of the forefoot, midfoot, or
heel.
[0058] To provide a greater understanding of some of the
embodiments, a cross-section of an embodiment of first system 150
is depicted in FIG. 2A with a foot 200 (shown in phantom) disposed
in the interior cavity 106 of article 100. It can be seen that in
some embodiments, the elongated members 160 can wrap around or be
disposed or pressed against a portion of foot 200, as depicted by
the fifth member 167 in FIG. 2A. In other words, the elongated
member 160, including the fifth member 167 can extend upward and
press against a portion of medial side 185 of foot 200 in some
embodiments. In one embodiment, a curvature of the elongated
members 160 can substantially correspond to the general curvature
of foot 200 in the same region, as depicted by the fifth member 167
and the foot 200 in FIG. 2A. Thus, in some embodiments, first
system 150 can be configured to match or correspond to the average
curvature of a foot sized for the article of footwear that
comprises first system 150 to provide greater support, comfort,
and/or contact with the foot. For example, various portions of each
elongated member may be substantially curved in some embodiments.
In other embodiments, elongated members can be substantially linear
or straight.
[0059] As noted above, in other embodiments of the pronation
system, there may be differences in structure such as the length,
thickness, width, and/or shape of the elongated members. It should
be understood that the general characteristics of the alternative
embodiments described herein also include the features and
characteristics described with respect to first system 150. Thus,
any of the embodiments described herein can be utilized
interchangeably with first system 150 as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2A.
Furthermore, the features, properties, and characteristics of one
embodiment can be applied to other embodiments.
[0060] In FIG. 3, an isolated view of a second sole structure 330
is depicted with a second pronation feedback system 350 ("second
system"). It can be seen that the sole structure--whether
comprising an outsole, midsole, and/or insole--has a sidewall 300
that extends around a majority of the perimeter of base portion 155
of the sole structure. In some embodiments, sidewall 300 can extend
in a direction substantially aligned with vertical axis 170. In one
embodiment, sidewall 300 can be substantially smooth and
continuous, though sidewall 300 and/or other portions of base
portion 155 can include a curvature, undulations, bumps, apertures,
ridges, grooves, or other texturing. Furthermore, it should be
understood that other embodiments may not include a sidewall, and
the elongated members can be formed or attached independent of a
sidewall, from a different portion of the base portion of the sole
structure. In different embodiments, second system 350 can be
disposed above or distally of sidewall 300. For example, in one
embodiment, second system 350 is disposed in the midfoot region 125
between a forward edge 310 of sidewall and a rearward edge 320 of
sidewall 300 and extends upward.
[0061] Furthermore, in some embodiments, an exterior surface of one
or more of elongated members 160 is continuously formed with the
sidewall of the sole structure. In some embodiments, an interior
surface of one or more elongated members 160 is continuous with an
interior surface of the sole structure. In other words, the
outwardly facing surface of the elongated members and the sidewall
can present a substantially continuous and/or smooth surface in one
embodiment. Similarly, the inwardly facing surface of the elongated
members and the base portion of the sole structure can present a
substantially continuous and/or smooth surface in one
embodiment.
[0062] In FIG. 3, second system 350 comprises five elongated
members 160, including a first member 352 with a length L1, a
second member 354 with a length L2, a third member 356 with a
length L3, a fourth member 358 with a length L4, and a fifth member
360 with a length L5. It can be seen that in some embodiments, one
or more elongated members can differ in length and/or curvature
from neighboring elongated members. The length of each member is
along its central axis, extending upward from a base line B that
extends along the lowest extents of the spaces between the members.
For example, the length L1 of the first member 352 is smallest
relative to the lengths of the remaining elongated members.
Furthermore, the length L3 of the third member 356 is largest
relative to the lengths of the remaining elongated members. In
addition, the lengths L2, L4, and L5 of second member 354, fourth
member 358, and fifth member 360, respectively, have a value
between the length L1 of the first member 352 and the length L3 of
the third member 356. However, it should be understood that in
other embodiments, two or more elongated members can have
substantially similar lengths.
[0063] It can also be seen that the curvature of each elongated
member can differ from other elongated members. For example, third
member 356 is relatively "straight", while first member 352 curves
forward, in a direction generally toward forefoot region 105 and
fifth member 360 curves rearward, in a direction generally toward
heel region 145. In addition, the curvatures of second member 354,
fourth member 358, and fifth member 360 can vary, and in some
embodiments, the curvature can be arranged to correspond to the
curvature of a foot in that region. However, it should be
understood that in other embodiments, two or more elongated members
can have substantially similar curvature.
[0064] The spacing between two or more elongated members can also
vary in a pronation system in different embodiments. In FIG. 3, the
spacing between each elongated member and its neighboring elongated
member is substantially uniform. However, in other embodiments, the
spacing may vary widely, such that, for example, first member 352
is further apart from second member 354 relative to the spacing
between second member 354 and third member 356. For example, in
first system 150 (see FIG. 1) elongated members 160 are arranged
closer together than elongated members 160 in second system 350. In
addition, while second system 350 includes five elongated members
160, first system 150 comprises seven elongated members 160 (see
FIG. 1).
[0065] As discussed above, the lengths of one or more elongated
members 160 can vary. In FIG. 4, an isolated view of a third sole
structure 430 is depicted with a third pronation feedback system
450 ("third system") with five elongated members 160, including a
first member 452, a second member 454, a third member 456, a fourth
member 458, and a fifth member 460. Comparing third system 450 with
second system 350 of FIG. 3, it can be seen that the cuts or siped
regions (e.g., the spaces between the members) where each elongated
member is formed in the material of the sole structure, or spaced
apart from other portions of the sole structure extend further
downward in third system 450 than second system 350. In other
words, in FIG. 4, the base line B between the third and fourth
members 456, 458, and between the fourth and fifth members 458, 460
of the third system is lower relative to the bite line BL of the
sole structure 130 so that the relative lengths of the third,
fourth, and fifth members 456, 458, 460 in FIG. 4 are significantly
greater than the lengths of elongated members 160 in FIG. 3. While
the sipes or cuts in second system 350 extend downward and
generally end at a distance below the upper edge (also referred to
as the bite line BL) of sidewall 300 (see FIG. 3), the sipes in
FIG. 4 extend further downward, such that some of the sipes are
proximate to or adjacent to the bite line or the base of third sole
structure 430. For purposes of this disclosure, a bite line is a
location along the intersection of a sole structure assembly and an
upper portion. Thus a lower or more distal end of the elongated
member that is attached or joined to the sole structure can be
disposed further down in some embodiments. In one embodiment, the
lower end of an elongated member can be disposed adjacent to the
bite line of the article of footwear. In some embodiments, for
example a first elongated member and a second elongated member are
joined above, directly adjacent, or adjoining the bite line.
[0066] For example, fourth member 458 is substantially longer than
fourth member 358 in FIG. 3. Thus, in some embodiments, the lengths
of one or more elongated members can be greater due to the extent
that a cut or sipe is made through the sole structure. Differences
in the siping or lengths of elongated member can allow the system
to vary in flexibility and/or stiffness in different embodiments.
For example, in some embodiments, third system 450 can be generally
more flexible and pliable relative to second system 350. It should
be understood that the various portions can differ from that shown
here and are for reference purposes only. Thus, elongated members
160 can include any length from nearly zero to nearly the entire
length of a sidewall, or even to extend upward and reach toward the
maximum height of the upper in an article of footwear.
[0067] In FIG. 5, an isolated view of a fourth sole structure 530
is depicted with a fourth pronation feedback system 550 ("fourth
system"). Fourth system 550 provides an illustration of elongated
members 160 that are arranged closer together relative to the
embodiments discussed above. In fourth system 550, each elongated
member is disposed directly adjacent to a neighboring elongated
member, such that little or no spacing is present between the
elongated members. The siping can extend to various lengths, as
described above, allowing various flexibility. In addition, the
number of sipes in FIG. 5--fifteen sipes--allows the formation of
fourteen individual elongated members, including a first member
552, a second member 554, a third member 556, a fourth member 558,
a fifth member 560, a sixth member 562, a seventh member 564, an
eighth member 566, a ninth member 568, a tenth member 570, an
eleventh member 572, a twelfth member 574, a thirteenth member 576,
and a fourteenth member 578. Thus, in some embodiments, a pronation
system may utilize a "fan" configuration, where two or more
neighboring elongated members contact or can even overlap portions
of one another. In one embodiment as shown, two or more elongated
members can be understood to be contiguous, or touching, along the
edges of each elongated member. For example, elongated member 554
touches the elongated members 552 and 556 along their adjacent
sides. For some users, the larger number of elongated members
and/or the lack of spacing between elongated members can enhance or
increase the tactile feedback provided to the foot. This kind of
embodiment can provide a feathery like sensation, as more elongated
segments are curved around a portion of the foot, and can provide
more sensitivity in feedback to a user during pronation. It should
be understood that in other embodiments, one portion of a pronation
system can include this type of arrangement as shown in FIG. 5
(where there is little or no spacing between the elongated members)
while another portion of the same pronation system may include
spacing or gaps between elongated members. For example, there may
be a mix of the structural configurations that are depicted in
FIGS. 3, 4, and/or 5, such that the individual elongated members
vary in lengths as well as in their spacing arrangement. Similarly,
the widths of each elongated member can be decreased or increased.
In FIG. 5, the elongated members are relatively narrow.
[0068] Similarly, as shown in FIG. 6, another example of a system
comprising generally "narrow" elongated members is shown in a fifth
sole structure 630 that includes a fifth pronation feedback system
650 ("fifth system"). As discussed above, the widths of one or more
elongated members 160 can vary. Fifth system 650 includes a first
member 652, a second member 654, a third member 656, a fourth
member 658, a fifth member 660, a sixth member 662, a seventh
member 664, an eighth member 666, and a ninth member 668. Comparing
fifth system 650 with second system 350 of FIG. 3, it can be seen
that each elongated member is more closely arranged together in
fifth system 650 than those in second system 350. Furthermore, in
FIG. 6, the relative widths of elongated members 160 are
significantly smaller than the widths of elongated members 160 in
FIG. 3. For example, first member 652 in FIG. 6 is substantially
narrower than first member 352 in FIG. 3. Thus, in some
embodiments, the widths of one or more elongated members can be
greater or narrower. Differences in the widths of elongated members
can allow the system to vary in flexibility and/or stiffness in
different embodiments. For example, in some embodiments, fifth
system 650 can be generally more flexible and pliable relative to
second system 350. Generally, a narrower elongated member is more
flexible and pliable (i.e., less stiff) in response to a pronation
force of a foot then a wider elongated member. It should be
understood that the various portions can differ from that shown
here and are for reference purposes only. Thus, elongated members
160 can include any width from nearly zero to nearly the entire
width of the system.
[0069] In addition, in some embodiments, the dimensions or shape of
elongated members can also vary through different portions of a
single elongated member. For example, the size of individual
elongated members may be larger (or smaller) in some regions
relative to other regions. For example, a first portion closer to
the base of the sole structure can begin with a wider region and
narrow or taper as it extends upward. In other embodiments, the
thickness of the elongated members near the base of the sole
structure can be thinner or thicker, and then vary in thickness as
it extends upward. In some cases, the dimensions, shape, and number
of elongated members 160 may be adjusted to increase or decrease
the rigidity, responsiveness, area covered, and/or the "feel" or
type of sensory information in a particular region of a foot.
[0070] In some embodiments, the overall shape of an elongated
member may be either regular or irregular. For example, elongated
members may be substantially flat or narrow, and/or relatively
thick or wide. In other embodiments, elongated members 160 may
comprise a triangular, oblong, elliptical, tapered shape, or any
other regular or irregular geometry.
[0071] In some embodiments, the elongated member may have a
substantially smooth outer edge. In other embodiments, an elongated
member can include texturing, bumpiness, undulations, ridges, or
other patterns that can affect the feel of the elongated member
against a foot. Thus, the sensation for a user can be adjusted by
altering the shape or patterning of the elongated members. However,
in other embodiments, as shown in the Figures, the elongated
members can have a substantially smooth outer surface.
[0072] The responses described herein may be useful in various
applications related to articles of apparel in some embodiments. In
some embodiments, the responses can be utilized in articles of
footwear. For example, in different embodiments, there can be
structural components associated with an article of footwear that
can offer various orthopedic benefits to a user. As noted earlier,
an article of footwear can include provisions that can allow a user
to receive feedback regarding certain aspects of his or her
behavior during particular activities. In some embodiments, first
system 150 as depicted in the figures above can interact with a
foot and provide a user with sensory information that can be
utilized by the user to selectively (i.e., intentionally) or
automatically (i.e., subconsciously) make adjustments in the
behavior of his or her foot during different activities. In one
embodiment, for example, first system 150 can provide tactile
feedback to a user that can inform the user whether the foot is
undergoing pronation. In some cases, the feedback may be related to
the degree or the extent of the pronation that occurs. However, in
other cases, the feedback and support may be associated with the
rate of the pronation, as will be discussed below with respect to
FIG. 8.
[0073] The term "pronation" as used in this disclosure is used to
describe an abnormal lateral (inwards) rotation of the foot that
can occur during the foot's (or footwear's) contact with the
ground. A certain amount of pronation (which will be referred to
herein as "normal pronation") is considered natural for a healthy
gait. However, if the foot rotates beyond the normal or a healthy
range of rotation, abnormal pronation (herein referred to as
"pronation") is said to have occurred. Thus, pronation of the foot
is not necessarily in itself injurious, but may over time leave an
individual more susceptible to a number of injuries. In some cases,
pronation can be understood to comprise a type of collapsing,
flattening, and/or rolling-in of the foot. In one embodiment, the
arch of the foot may collapse to a greater extent during (abnormal)
pronation relative to normal pronation. However, it should be
understood that in different cases, the timing associated with when
and how quickly the foot rolls inward may also be important, as
will be discussed below with respect to FIG. 8.
[0074] In different embodiments, the primary touch organ, skin, can
be very sensitive to periodic applied pressures. Thus, some
embodiments of the various pronation feedback systems as described
herein can provide a wearable tactile feedback system that utilizes
the "communication channel" of touch or sensation, to give
real-time feedback to the wearer about their performance during
various activities. The present embodiments can provide tactile
feedback for a wearer to alert the wearer of a departure from a
normal or healthy rate and/or range of pronation. The tactile
feedback can help a user develop new learned behavior that
supplants previous tendencies to over-pronate and assist in
behavioral modification. A person's foot position and rate of
pronation can thus be monitored and potentially while the user is
engaged in normal activities. In one example, if a user
over-pronates or pronates too quickly, the elongated members can
stiffen, and the stiffening is felt by the wearer so he or she can
choose to adjust their behavior.
[0075] When a foot pronates during walking or running or other
activities, the lower leg and foot can rotate inwardly (medially)
beyond a healthy range. This in turn can increase stresses on the
muscles, tendons, and ligaments of the foot and lower leg including
the shin and the knee, as the limb rotates too far inward. In FIG.
7, a pair of feet 700 belonging to an individual who abnormally
pronates is shown in cross section. Pair of feet 700 is illustrated
wearing a pair of footwear 730 shown in cross-section, including
left article of footwear 730A and right article of footwear 730B.
The footwear 730 does not include a pronation feedback system.
Right foot 710 is depicted rolling inward, while a corresponding
left foot 720 is in what would be considered a normal (healthy)
position.
[0076] In different embodiments, during a person's gait cycle, the
outside part of a first heel 750 and corresponding second heel 752
make initial contact with the ground. For purposes of this
disclosure, a gait cycle is the time period or sequence of events
or movements during regular locomotion from the point at which one
foot contacts the ground to the point when that same foot again
contacts the ground. The angle of pronation is measured for
purposes of illustration by the angle between an axis 170 and an
axis 740. The axis 740 is the axis of the foot, and more
specifically, the axis of the heel, extending perpendicular from
the ground contact surface 742 of the footwear 730A or 730B from
the center of the heel 750 or 752 of the foot and through the
center of the ankle 734. The axis 741 is the axis of the ankle 734
extending through the center of the ankle 734 and along the center
of the lower leg above the ankle, and the axis 170 is the vertical
axis. In FIG. 7, the pronating foot (here, right foot 710), is
depicted as it "rolls" inward further than the generally accepted
normal range of approximately 15 percent during pronation. This is
illustrated by the contrast between a first range 760 associated
with right foot 710 and a second range 762 associated with a left
foot 720, where second range 762 should be understood to represent
an accepted normal range. As a result, in some cases, at the end of
the gait cycle, the front of right foot 710 will typically tend to
push off the ground using mainly the big toe and second toe (not
shown). It is generally understood that pronation can often be
experienced during intense locomotion, principally during athletic
activities where body weight on the heel is increased.
[0077] In some embodiments, one manner in which pronation may be
measured is through the degree or range of rotation by a foot
during an activity. However, in other embodiments, some effects of
pronation may be due to other factors. In one embodiment, the rate
of pronation, in contrast to the extent of pronation, may be
correlated with the susceptibility of a user to various orthopedic
effects. Thus, in some cases, an article of footwear that can
provide information to a user regarding either their pronation
range and/or pronation rate may be beneficial.
[0078] To better illustrate the concepts discussed herein, FIG. 8
is a schematic graph that depicts an embodiment of three different
rates of pronation. A first rate 800 of pronation is illustrated
near the top of the graph of FIG. 8, a second or intermediate rate
801 of pronation is illustrated below first rate 800, and a third
rate 802 of pronation is illustrated near the bottom of the graph
of FIG. 8. In each rate, a sequence of six "snapshots" of a left
foot are shown, where each snapshot represents a moment in time
during a gait cycle of an individual who exhibits abnormal
pronation in at least the left foot during an activity. The
snapshots are the same moments during the respective gait
cycles.
[0079] Furthermore, arrows are included between one snapshot and
the adjacent snapshot to schematically represent the passage of
time. Larger arrows (as shown in first rate 800) are representative
of a greater duration of time relative to the arrows that are
smaller (see second rate 801 and third rate 802). Thus, first rate
800 is in part represented by the arrows included between each of
the snapshots, second rate 801 is represented in part by the arrows
included between each of the snapshots, and third rate 802 is
represented in part by the arrows included between each of the
snapshots. It can thus be understood that the sequence comprising
each gait cycle is represented such that each cycle is completed
over a different duration of time. In first rate 800, the gait
cycle begins at T=0 (initial time point) and occurs over a first
duration T1, represented also by a first span of time 870. In
second rate 801, the gait cycle begins at T=0 (initial time point)
and occurs over a second duration T2, represented also by a second
span of time 880, and in third rate 802, the gait cycle begins at
T=0 (initial time point) and occurs over a third duration T3,
represented also by a third span of time 890. First duration T1 can
be seen to be longer than second duration T2. Furthermore, second
duration T2 is longer than third duration T3.
[0080] Referring to first rate 800, there is a first snapshot 810
depicting the heel strike of a foot, a second snapshot 820
depicting the foot coming downward more fully, and a third snapshot
830 depicting the foot beginning to roll inward (toward the medial
side). These are followed by a fourth snapshot 840 depicting the
rolling of the foot continuing further inward, a fifth snapshot 850
depicting the foot beginning to near the end of the gait cycle by
raising the heel higher off the ground, and a sixth snapshot 860
depicting the uneven pushing off of the foot that can occur during
the end of a gait cycle that includes pronation. Similarly, second
rate 801 comprises the same sequence of snapshots, including a
seventh snapshot 812, an eighth snapshot 822, a ninth snapshot 832,
a tenth snapshot 842, an eleventh snapshot 852, and a twelfth
snapshot 862. In addition, third rate 802 includes the same
sequence as well, as depicted in a thirteenth snapshot 814, a
fourteenth snapshot 824, a fifteenth snapshot 834, a sixteenth
snapshot 844, a seventeenth snapshot 854, and an eighteenth
snapshot 864.
[0081] Thus, for purposes of illustration, each set of the six
images comprises the same steps of a pronating gait cycle. It
should be understood that in other embodiments, a foot that
exhibits pronation can rotate in a variety of ways, and the
sequence may differ from the examples shown in FIG. 8. However,
while each of the gait cycle sequences depict essentially the same
gait cycle, it can be seen that the rate of pronation in which the
cycle occurs is different for each rate. First rate 800 may be
understood to be slower than second rate 801. In addition, second
rate 801 may be understood to be slower than third rate 802. In
other words, the gait cycle comprising first rate 800 takes a
longer period of time to complete than the same gait cycle shown in
second rate 801, and the gait cycle of second rate 801 takes a
longer period of time to complete than the same gait cycle shown in
third rate 802.
[0082] In some embodiments, a faster rate of pronation may increase
the susceptibility of an individual to orthopedic complications.
Thus, in some embodiments, it may be advantageous to provide an
individual with feedback related to the rate at which the
individual is pronating. In different embodiments, various
structural components may be included in an article of footwear
that can inform, guide, direct, or otherwise influence users to
increase their awareness of their pronation rate and/or encourage
them to manage their rate of pronation differently. This management
may occur consciously (i.e., intentionally) as a result of the
feedback in some embodiments. In other embodiments, the management
of the pronation rate may occur subconsciously, such that the
person's brain or nervous system responds to the tactile feedback
automatically and seeks to compensate or adjust his or her behavior
in response to that feedback.
[0083] For purposes of this disclosure, tactile feedback refers to
feedback that is provided to an individual through the indirect or
direct sensation of touch. Thus, any feedback that is given through
sensations like changes in pressure (mechanoreception), temperature
(thermoception), and pain (nociception) may be considered tactile.
In some embodiments, the input to a person that can be registered
from the sense of touch can be formed from several modalities
including pressure, skin stretch, vibration, and temperature.
[0084] Thus, some embodiments may include provisions for various
types of feedback to a wearer's foot. In some embodiments the
feedback is tactile. One example is shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 by a
comparison between footwear with a pronation system (FIG. 9) and
footwear without a pronation system (FIG. 10). In FIG. 9, fifth
member 167 of first system 150 is disposed against upper 102 and
provides an impulse to a wearer's foot 200. In one embodiment, the
curvature of elongated members 160 closely matches the shape of
wearer's arch in order to conform to wearer's arch. During a roll
of the foot (as discussed above), the elongated members can come to
provide different types of impulses or forces or pressure to the
foot. Thus, in some embodiments, the wearer will transfer his or
her weight on to a plurality of elongated members 160 during a
roll, giving tactile feedback as the contact switches from placing
the weight on sole structure 130 to plurality of elongated members
160. In general, the elongated members 160 will have a smaller
contact area with the foot compared to the sole structure 130 and
upper 102, resulting in tactile feedback when weight shifts from
the sole structure 130 or upper 102 to the elongated members 160.
Furthermore, when a wearer's rate of pronation is greater, the
impulse delivered by elongated members 160 may be different. In
other words, in some embodiments, at a first rate of pronation the
elongated members 160 provide a first impulse to a medial side 185
of the wearer's foot, while at a second (e.g., faster) rate of
pronation, the elongated members 160 provide a second impulse to a
medial side 185 of the wearer's foot 200 that is different from the
first impulse. For purposes of this disclosure, an impulse can be
understood to be any kind of sensory feedback or structural support
response that is provided by the first pronation feedback system
150. For example, the feedback may be a reaction force of the
elongated members 160 in response to the weight of the wearer
against the elongated members 160. Thus, in one embodiment, the
impulse(s), such as the first impulse, the second impulse, or other
impulses, can provide a proprioceptive feedback to the foot 200 of
the wearer. In some embodiments, for example, the first impulse can
help reduce the first rate of pronation and/or the second impulse
can help reduce the second rate of pronation by causing the wearer
to correct the over pronation.
[0085] Furthermore, in different embodiments, the embodiments
described herein can provide a method of reducing a rate of
pronation. Through the use of an article of footwear with a
pronation feedback system that includes a sole structure with a
plurality of elongated members, a wearer may be able to reduce the
rate of pronation. In one embodiment, this method can comprise
providing a first impulse to a medial side 185 of wearer's foot 200
in response to a first rate of pronation and providing a second
impulse to the medial side 185 of the wearer's foot 200 in response
to a second rate of pronation. During use of this method, it will
be understood that the first rate of pronation is different than
the second rate of pronation, and that the first impulse is
different than the second impulse.
[0086] In some embodiments, providing tactile feedback to a wearer
may affect the motion of the wearer. For example, tactile feedback
could affect the wearer's gait cycle and/or the degree to which a
wearer pronates. In a neutral position as in left foot 720 of FIG.
7, when the axis 740 of the foot and the axis 741 of the ankle 734
are both in alignment with the vertical axis 170 and are
perpendicular to the ground, the angle between the axis 740 and the
axis 741 is zero, and is within a range 762 of normal, where the
normal range extends from the vertical axis until the axis 740
moves to position 740A relative to the axis 741. In the neutral
position of the left foot 720, the feedback and support given by a
pronation system is negligible, as little weight to no weight is
placed on any elongated members (represented by elongated member
167), allowing the back of the foot and the back of the article of
footwear 730A to spread weight evenly across the ground.
[0087] However, during a roll, as illustrated in right foot 710 in
FIG. 7, the axis 740 of the foot and the axis 741 of the ankle are
no longer aligned with one another and both perpendicular to the
ground. In this position, the feedback and support that would be
given by elongated members is increased, as weight is placed on
elongated members (represented by elongated member 167) due to the
axes being no longer aligned, and the back of the foot and the back
of shoe no longer spread weight evenly across the ground. During an
excessive roll, the axis 740 of the foot and the axis 741 of the
ankle become even further out of alignment with one another and
further from perpendicular to the ground. The feedback and support
given by elongated members is increased again, as additional weight
is placed on plurality of elongated members due to the axis 740 of
the foot being further out of alignment from the axis 741 of the
ankle 734.
[0088] In some cases, a wearer may alter his or her pronation in
response to tactile feedback from one or more elongated members.
The feedback may discourage over pronation by minimizing the angle
between the axis 741 of the ankle 734 and the axis 740 of the heel
of the wearer's foot. Minimizing this angle, which may also be
referred to as the angle of impact with the ground, increases the
relative surface area of the foot striking the ground during the
gait cycle. In some cases, the wearer may be discouraged from over
pronating as the reinforcing elements (e.g., elongated members 160)
apply local forces to the medial side 185 of the foot, which are
distributed over relatively narrow contact areas (i.e., along the
length of the elongated members 160).
[0089] In FIG. 9, the weight of the wearer is shifted against the
elongated members (through the upper 102), creating an impact
region R which is the area of contact of the foot 200 and the
elongated members (represented by member 167). The impact region
may provide feedback to a wearer that encourages him or her to
shift his or her weight so as to reduce the over-pronation. An
impact region can also provide feedback and support that can
discourage any pronation.
[0090] In some embodiments, the tactile feedback is proprioceptive.
For example, in FIG. 9, by closely matching plurality of elongated
members 160 to the shape of the wearer's arch, the wearer will
press his or her medial side weight on the elongated members only
during over-pronation in some embodiments. Such feedback allows the
user to feel whether the foot is properly placed, and gives
awareness on the position of the foot in different embodiments.
Since the wearer is aware of the position of his or her foot, the
feedback is proprioceptive. The elongated members may provide more
proprioceptive feedback when the foot is over-pronated than when
the foot is in a neutral position, and may even provide more
proprioceptive feedback than when the foot is normal pronation
(i.e., within the range 762) in one embodiment. Thus, a wearer may
feel the proper position of his or her foot during a roll and
reduce over-pronation but may not be affected during normal
pronation in some embodiments.
[0091] In some embodiments, by positioning the elongated members in
a configuration that is tangential to the arch on the wearer's
foot, the elongated members stay in contact with the wearer's foot,
but do not press against the wearer's foot during a normal stance.
However, when the foot excessively rolls during the gait cycle, the
foot rolls on to the arch and thus more strongly against the
elongated members (either directly when the elongated members are
within the interior cavity 106, or indirectly, through the upper
102, when the elongated members 160 are exterior to the upper 102).
The elongated members thus give support to the foot during the over
pronation, and provide tactile feedback.
[0092] Similarly, in different embodiments, the sensory feedback
provided to a user can be greater when a relatively strong or
"rapid" force is being applied to elongated members 160. Through
use of the pronation system, a user may over time reduce their rate
of pronation to so that the intensity of the roll experienced is
relatively weak or a "slower" force 900. In different embodiments,
a component or structure can be provided that can generally
indicate to a user whether his or her rate of pronation is greater
than or less than a particular reference level. As noted above,
this information can be used to adjust the rate of pronation, if
desired.
[0093] In FIG. 10, for purposes of illustration, a cross-sectional
view of a conventional article of footwear is shown (i.e., without
a pronation feedback system) with a foot in the article of
footwear. In this case, without a pronation system as described
herein, the rate of pronation may remain unchanged for a user, so
that the intensity of the roll experienced is relatively large or a
"faster" force 1000. For example, the upper 102 at the medial side
185 may shift slightly toward the medial side 185 under the force
1000.
[0094] Thus, in some embodiments, first system 150 can press
against the upper and a foot (or a material such as a sock worn by
the foot) and alter the user's tactile sensation. In some cases,
such as when the rate of pronation is relatively higher, the
pronation feedback system can produce a more noticeable sensation
to a user. In some embodiments, the surface associated with the
elongated members of first system 150 can act as specialized
contact points that provide a particular pressure against a user's
foot. The sensation of such regions against a foot can prompt a
user to modify their behavior in different embodiments.
[0095] In some cases, the user can learn what rate causes the
elongated members to yield and provide a more gentle response, and
what rates cause the elongated members to provide a more pressured
or less comfortable response. In some embodiments, this tactile
information may allow a user to learn to maintain a desired rate of
pronation over time. The pronation feedback system may thus provide
a gentle alert to the wearer to assume a correct, healthier, or
improved pronation rate and/or range throughout various movements
and positions. The feel of the different elongated members against
a foot can also continuously serve to remind the wearer to maintain
the healthier gait cycle.
[0096] In some embodiments, the use of elongated members in
orthotics for an article of footwear can help support weakened
areas of a foot and assist the user in each step. While a
relatively rigid material, as may be included in a custom sole
member, can provide functional support to the foot, softer or more
flexible responses associated with the dynamic pronation feedback
system described herein can absorb the loads experienced by the
foot and provide protection. Such softer or cushioned regions can
better absorb the loads placed on a foot, increase stabilization,
and take pressure off uncomfortable or sore spots of the feet.
[0097] For purposes of clarity for the reader, FIG. 11 presents an
embodiment of article 100 with upper 102 and a sixth sole structure
1130 comprising a sixth system 1150. Sixth system 1150 includes
seven elongated members 160 (i.e., first member 1152, second member
1154, third member 1155, fourth member 1156, fifth member 1157,
sixth member 1158, and seventh member 1159). Sixth system 1150 can
be understood to be similar to first system 150, except that the
elongated members 160 are external to upper 102. Thus, elongated
members 160 can extend upward from the sidewall and press against
or be attached to medial side 185 of an exterior surface 189 of the
upper 102, providing a supportive structure or a ribbed reinforcing
arrangement against medial side 185 of upper 102.
[0098] In another embodiment, an article of footwear can comprise a
seventh system 1250 which comprises a single sole extension, as
shown in FIG. 12. In FIG. 12, it can be seen that seventh system
1250 is a support structure and is a substantially continuous
portion of a seventh sole structure 1230, extending vertically
upward above a surrounding bite line BL. Seventh system 1250 can
include different contours and curvature, as well as variations in
height, thickness, width, and shape, as described above with
respect to the elongated members. In some embodiments, seventh
system 1250 can substantially conform to medial side 185 of a foot
in midfoot region 125. Thus, in one embodiment, the pronation
feedback system can provide a more solid, one-piece support
structure that can engage with a foot in a manner similar to the
plurality of elongated members described herein.
[0099] As noted above, the geometry of the elongated members can
vary in different embodiments. For example, in some embodiments,
elongated members can include different tips or end portions, or
other kinds of irregularities in their shapes. In some embodiments,
each elongated member can include an end portion (the free end of
the elongated member that is disposed furthest from the base
portion) that has a geometry which differs from the other end
portions of neighboring elongated members. For example, while a
first elongated member may have a substantially rounded end
portion, a second elongated member can have a substantially
triangular or pointed end portion. Furthermore, a third elongated
member may have a substantially rectangular or linear end portion.
In addition, in one embodiment, a fourth member may have an
undulating body with an end portion that becomes increasingly
tapered and pointed. A fifth member may include a larger "spoon"
end portion, or a round, substantially oval end portion that is
larger in width than the body of the elongated member nearer to the
base portion. Any pronation system can include different geometries
of the elongated members, and it should be understood that the
description depicts only some examples of these variations. Other
embodiments can include elongated members that are all or nearly
all similar in geometry. In addition, in some embodiments, the size
of an elongated member can change throughout the length of the
elongated member. In other words, the width or thickness of an
elongated member can vary over the length of its body. In one
embodiment, an elongated member can decrease in width as it extends
distally upward. In another embodiment, the body of an elongated
member can have a substantially uniform width. In some embodiments,
while the body of the elongated member can have a substantially
uniform width, the end portion can increase or decrease in width.
Each variation can be selected to provide different types of
sensory responses for a wearer.
[0100] Furthermore, it should be understood that other embodiments
or variations of pronation feedback systems as disclosed herein may
include other elongated member patterns or various combinations of
the above-disclosed designs. It should be noted that the present
description is not limited to elongated members having the geometry
or arrangement configurations of first system 150, second system
350, third system 450, fourth system 550, fifth system 650, sixth
system 1150, and seventh system 1250. In different embodiments,
each pronation feedback system may include further variations not
depicted in the figures. Some variations may include differences in
shape, size, contour, elevations, depressions, curvatures, and
other variations of the pronation feedback system. In other words,
the pronation feedback systems depicted herein are merely intended
to provide an example of the many types of elongated member-based
configurations that fall within the scope of the present
discussion.
[0101] 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. Although many possible combinations
of features are shown in the accompanying figures and discussed in
this detailed description, many other combinations of the disclosed
features are possible. Any feature of any embodiment may be used in
combination with or substituted for any other feature or element in
any other embodiment unless specifically restricted. Therefore, it
will be understood that any of the features shown and/or discussed
in the present disclosure may be implemented together in any
suitable combination. 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.
* * * * *