U.S. patent application number 17/032229 was filed with the patent office on 2021-04-01 for sole structure for a shoe.
The applicant listed for this patent is Mizuno Corporation. Invention is credited to Yohei YOSHIDA.
Application Number | 20210093040 17/032229 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000005119024 |
Filed Date | 2021-04-01 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20210093040 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
YOSHIDA; Yohei |
April 1, 2021 |
Sole Structure for a Shoe
Abstract
The sole structure includes a sole body comprising a wavy
structure and a midsole, and an outsole disposed below the sole
body and having a ground contact surface. The wavy structure
comprises a plurality of wavy extending parts that respectively
extend in a wavy shape in the foot-length direction and that are
disposed side by side in the foot-width direction, and a connecting
portion that connects the wavy extending parts respectively in the
foot-width direction. A thickness center plane of the wavy
structure extends curvedly in the vertically direction toward the
foot-length direction. The midsole is formed of a soft elastic
member and includes a lower surface and an upper surface. The lower
surface has a contact surface that the wavy structure is in contact
with. The upper surface is fitted to an upper of a shoe.
Inventors: |
YOSHIDA; Yohei; (Osaka-shi,
JP) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Mizuno Corporation |
Osaka-shi |
|
JP |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000005119024 |
Appl. No.: |
17/032229 |
Filed: |
September 25, 2020 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A43B 5/00 20130101; A43B
13/187 20130101; A43B 13/04 20130101; A43B 13/181 20130101; A43B
13/141 20130101; A43B 13/125 20130101; A43B 13/16 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A43B 13/18 20060101
A43B013/18; A43B 13/14 20060101 A43B013/14; A43B 13/16 20060101
A43B013/16; A43B 5/00 20060101 A43B005/00; A43B 13/12 20060101
A43B013/12; A43B 13/04 20060101 A43B013/04 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Sep 30, 2019 |
JP |
2019-180934 |
Claims
1. A sole structure fora heel region, midfoot region, or a forefoot
region of a shoe, said sole structure comprising: a sole body
having a first shock absorbing component and a second shock
absorbing component that are adapted to cooperate with each other;
and an outsole provided below said sole body and having a ground
contact surface, wherein said first shock absorbing component is
formed of a wavy structure that comprises a plurality of wavy
extending parts respectively extending in a wavy shape in a
foot-length direction and disposed side by side in a foot-width
direction and a connecting portion connecting the wavy extending
parts respectively in said foot-width direction, and a thickness
center plane of said wavy structure extends curvedly in a vertical
direction toward said foot-length direction, wherein said second
shock absorbing component is formed of a soft elastic member and
includes a contact surface that said wavy structure is in contact
with and a fitted surface that an upper of said shoe is fitted
to.
2. The sole structure according to claim 1, wherein at least a
portion of said wavy structure is fixedly attached to said second
shock absorbing component, and wherein said first shock absorbing
component formed of said wavy structure and said second shock
absorbing component adapted to cooperate with said first shock
absorbing component are integrated to constitute said sole
body.
3. The sole structure according to claim 2, wherein at least a
portion of said wavy structure is bonded to a lower surface of said
second shock absorbing component.
4. The sole structure according to claim 2, wherein at least a
portion of said wavy structure is embedded in an interior of said
second shock absorbing component.
5. The sole structure according to claim 2, wherein said second
shock absorbing component is formed of a soft foamed member in a
foamed bead shape and said wavy structure is embedded in an
interior of said second shock absorbing component.
6. The sole structure according to claim 1, wherein said wavy
structure further comprises an upraised part that extends upwardly,
and said upraised part is provided at said wavy extending parts of
said wavy structure disposed on an outermost side in said
foot-width direction.
7. The sole structure according to claim 1, wherein said wavy
structure extends from said heel region through said midfoot region
to said forefoot region of said shoe, and wherein said thickness
center plane of said wavy structure is disposed below a thickness
center plane of said sole body at said forefoot region, disposed
above said thickness center plane of said sole body at an anterior
end portion of said heel region, and disposed below said thickness
center plane of said sole body at a posterior end portion of said
heel region.
8. The sole structure according to claim 2, wherein said wavy
structure extends from said heel region through said midfoot region
to said forefoot region of said shoe, and wherein said thickness
center plane of said wavy structure is disposed below a thickness
center plane of said sole body at said forefoot region, disposed
above said thickness center plane of said sole body at an anterior
end portion of said heel region, and disposed below said thickness
center plane of said sole body at a posterior end portion of said
heel region.
9. The sole structure according to claim 3, wherein said wavy
structure extends from said heel region through said midfoot region
to said forefoot region of said shoe, and wherein said thickness
center plane of said wavy structure is disposed below a thickness
center plane of said sole body at said forefoot region, disposed
above said thickness center plane of said sole body at an anterior
end portion of said heel region, and disposed below said thickness
center plane of said sole body at a posterior end portion of said
heel region.
10. The sole structure according to claim 4, wherein said wavy
structure extends from said heel region through said midfoot region
to said forefoot region of said shoe, and wherein said thickness
center plane of said wavy structure is disposed below a thickness
center plane of said sole body at said forefoot region, disposed
above said thickness center plane of said sole body at an anterior
end portion of said heel region, and disposed below said thickness
center plane of said sole body at a posterior end portion of said
heel region.
11. The sole structure according to claim 5, wherein said wavy
structure extends from said heel region through said midfoot region
to said forefoot region of said shoe, and wherein said thickness
center plane of said wavy structure is disposed below a thickness
center plane of said sole body at said forefoot region, disposed
above said thickness center plane of said sole body at an anterior
end portion of said heel region, and disposed below said thickness
center plane of said sole body at a posterior end portion of said
heel region.
12. The sole structure according to claim 1, wherein at least two
of said wavy extending parts of said wavy structure disposed
adjacent to each other in said foot-width direction are integrated
to each other to constitute an unitary wavy extending part at
either of positions in said foot-length direction.
13. The sole structure according to claim 2, wherein at least two
of said wavy extending parts of said wavy structure disposed
adjacent to each other in said foot-width direction are integrated
to each other to constitute an unitary wavy extending part at
either of positions in said foot-length direction.
14. The sole structure according to claim 3, wherein at least two
of said wavy extending parts of said wavy structure disposed
adjacent to each other in said foot-width direction are integrated
to each other to constitute an unitary wavy extending part at
either of positions in said foot-length direction.
15. The sole structure according to claim 4, wherein at least two
of said wavy extending parts of said wavy structure disposed
adjacent to each other in said foot-width direction are integrated
to each other to constitute an unitary wavy extending part at
either of positions in said foot-length direction.
16. The sole structure according to claim 5, wherein at least two
of said wavy extending parts of said wavy structure disposed
adjacent to each other in said foot-width direction are integrated
to each other to constitute an unitary wavy extending part at
either of positions in said foot-length direction.
17. The sole structure according to claim 1, wherein said wavy
structure is provided plurally in said foot-width direction or said
foot-length direction.
18. The sole structure according to claim 1, wherein said wavy
extending parts and said connecting portion of said wavy structure
are formed integrally of the same material.
19. The sole structure according to claim 1, wherein said wavy
structure is formed of a material of a higher rigidity than a
material of said second shock absorbing component.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates generally to a sole structure
for a shoe, and more particularly, to a sole structure having a
wavy structure that includes a plurality of wavy extending
parts.
[0002] Japanese Patent No. 3337971 (hereinafter referred to as JP
'971) discloses a sole structure for an athletic shoe in which a
midsole has a concave portion formed at a heel region thereof and
having a shock absorbing structure installed therein (see FIGS. 27
and 28 of JP '971). The shock absorbing structure comprises a
plurality of belt-shaped wavy sheets each extending in the
foot-length direction and disposed side by side in the foot-width
direction and a connecting portion that connects the belt-shaped
wavy sheets adjacent to each other in the foot-width direction. An
impact force exerted from the ground surface at the time of
impacting the ground is absorbed by a compressive deformation of
the belt-shaped wavy sheets and a torsional deformation of the
connecting portion of the shock absorbing structure (see paras.
[0056] to [0057]).
[0003] JP '971 merely describes a constitution that the shock
absorbing structure is installed in the concave portion at the heel
region to absorb the impact force at the time of impacting the
ground as a main object. It describes nothing in terms of
improvement of running felling during running.
[0004] The present invention has been made in view of these
circumstances and its object is to provide a shoe sole structure
with a wavy structure having a plurality of wavy extending parts
that can not only absorb an impact force at the time of impacting
the ground but also improve running feeling during running.
[0005] Other objects and advantages of the present invention will
be obvious and appear hereinafter.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] A sole structure according to the present invention is
provided for either a heel region, midfoot region, or a forefoot
region of a shoe. The sole structure comprises a sole body having a
first shock absorbing component and a second shock absorbing
component that cooperate with each other and an outsole provided
below the sole body and having a ground contact surface. The first
shock absorbing component is formed of a wavy structure that
comprises a plurality of wavy extending parts respectively
extending in a wavy shape in a foot-length direction and disposed
side by side in a foot-width direction and a connecting portion
connecting the wavy extending parts respectively in the foot-width
direction. A thickness center plane of the wavy structure extends
curvedly in a vertical direction toward the foot-length direction.
The second shock absorbing component is formed of a soft elastic
member and includes a contact surface that the wavy structure is in
contact with and a fitted surface that an upper of the shoe is
fitted to.
[0007] In the sole structure of the present invention, the first
shock absorbing component constituting the sole body is formed of
the wavy structure that comprises a plurality of wavy extending
parts respectively extending in the wavy shape in the foot-length
direction and the connecting portion that connects the wavy
extending parts respectively in the foot-width direction. The
thickness center plane of the wavy structure extends curvedly in
the vertical direction toward the foot-length direction. The second
shock absorbing component constituting the sole body is formed of a
soft elastic member.
[0008] According to the present invention, at the time of impacting
the ground, an impact force on landing can be absorbed by an
elastic deformation of the second shock absorbing component formed
of a soft elastic member and an improved shock absorbance and a
higher resilience can be achieved by a compressive deformation of
the wavy extending parts of the first shock absorbing component and
a torsional deformation and a restoration of the connecting
portion. Moreover, according to the present invention, since the
thickness center plane of the wavy structure extends curvedly in
the vertical direction toward the foot-length direction, a load
during running can be smoothly transferred in a forward direction,
thereby improving a running feeling during running. To the
contrary, in the shock absorbing structure of the prior-art sole
structure mentioned above, a thickness center plane of the wavy
structure extends linearly toward the foot-length direction.
Therefore, the prior-art structure did not fully consider a load
transfer during running although it may be superior in a shock
absorbance.
[0009] Also, for a midfoot runner who strikes onto the ground from
the midfoot region of the shoe, the first and second shock
absorbing components may be disposed at the midfoot region of the
shoe, for a forefoot runner who strikes onto the ground from the
forefoot region of the shoe, the first and second shock absorbing
components may be disposed at the forefoot region of the shoe, and
for a heel striker who strikes onto the ground from the heel region
of the shoe, the first and second shock absorbing components may be
disposed at the heel region of the shoe. In such a manner, a shock
absorbance and a running feeling can be effectively enhanced
according to the characteristics of runners' running styles.
[0010] At least a portion of the wavy structure may be fixedly
attached to the second shock absorbing component, and the first
shock absorbing component formed of the wavy structure and the
second shock absorbing component may be integrated to constitute
the sole body. Thereby, at the time of a load transfer during
landing and running, the first and second shock absorbing
components cooperate integrally with each other, thus causing a
load transmission between the first shock absorbing component and
the second shock absorbing component to be conducted in a smooth
manner.
[0011] At least a portion of said wavy structure may be bonded and
thus fixedly attached to a lower surface to the second shock
absorbing component.
[0012] At least a portion of the wavy structure may be embedded in
an interior of and thus fixedly attached to the second shock
absorbing component.
[0013] The second shock absorbing component may be formed of a soft
foamed member in a foamed bead shape and the wavy structure may be
embedded in an interior of and thus fixedly attached to the second
shock absorbing component.
[0014] The wavy structure may further comprise an upraised part
that extends upwardly, and the upraised part may be provided at the
wavy extending parts of the wavy structure disposed on an outermost
side in the foot-width direction.
[0015] In this case, the upraised part can support the second shock
absorbing component in the foot-width direction, thus preventing a
foot from leaning sideways to achieve a stable support of the foot.
Also, a provision of the upraised part can increase a fixing area
(e.g. a bonding area) relative to the second shock absorbing
component to improve a strength of the entire sole structure.
[0016] The wavy structure may extend from the heel region through
the midfoot region to the forefoot region of the shoe. The
thickness center plane of the wavy structure may be disposed below
the thickness center plane of the sole body at the forefoot region,
disposed above the thickness center plane of the sole body at an
anterior end portion of the heel region, and disposed below the
thickness center plane of the sole body at a posterior end portion
of the heel region.
[0017] In this case, since the thickness center plane of the wavy
structure is disposed above the thickness center plane of the sole
body at the anterior end portion of the heel region and disposed
below the thickness center plane of the sole body at the posterior
end portion of the heel region, the thickness center plane of the
wavy structure is inclined diagonally upwardly toward a front side
in a region extending from the posterior end portion of the heel
region to the anterior end portion of the heel region. Therefore,
at the time of a heel impact, a shock load exerted diagonally
forwardly from the heel of the foot to the sole below the heel acts
onto an inclined part disposed diagonally above the wavy structure
at the anterior end portion of the heel region. Thereby, the shock
load at the time of the heel impact can be securely received by the
wavy structure at the anterior end portion of the heel region, thus
improving a shock absorbance.
[0018] Also, since the thickness center plane of the wavy structure
is disposed below the thickness center plane of the sole body at
the forefoot region and disposed above the thickness center plane
of the sole body at the anterior end portion of the heel region,
the thickness center plane of the wavy structure is inclined
diagonally downwardly toward a front side at the forefoot region.
Thereby, bending rigidity of the wavy structure at the forefoot
region can be enhanced and an energy loss can be decreased during
running.
[0019] At least two of the wavy extending parts of the wavy
structure disposed adjacent to each other in the foot-width
direction may be integrated with each other to constitute an
unitary wavy extending part at either of positions in the
foot-length direction. Thereby, bending rigidity can be enhanced in
the foot-width direction of the wavy structure, thus strengthening
a landing stability and a running stability.
[0020] The wavy structure may be provided plurally in the
foot-width direction or the foot-length direction. In this case,
mutually-independent wavy structures can be disposed between the
medial side and the lateral side of the foot or between the
anterior side and the posterior side of the foot, such that thereby
the respective wavy structures can perform respective independent
functions. As a result, a control of a shock absorbance and a
running feeling can be conducted more delicately.
[0021] The wavy extending parts and the connecting portion of the
wavy structure may be formed integrally of the same material. In
this case, forming of the wavy structure can be facilitated.
[0022] The wavy structure may be formed of a material of a higher
rigidity than a material of the second shock absorbing component.
In this case, a cushioning property at the time of impacting the
ground can be secured by the second shock absorbing component of a
relatively lower rigidity and a shock absorbance at the time of
impacting the ground can be improved by the first shock absorbing
component of a relatively higher rigidity. Moreover, a greater
propulsion power can be attained by a higher resilience or a
repulsive force of the first shock absorbing component.
[0023] As mentioned above, according to the present invention, at
the time of impacting the ground, an impact force on landing can be
absorbed by an elastic deformation of the second shock absorbing
component formed of a soft elastic member. At the same time, a
shock absorbance can be improved and a higher resilience can be
achieved by a compressive deformation of the wavy extending parts
of the first shock absorbing component and a torsional deformation
and a restoration of the connecting portion. Moreover, according to
the present invention, a load during running can be smoothly
transferred in the forward direction, thereby improving a running
feeling during running.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0024] For a more complete understanding of the invention,
reference should be made to the embodiments illustrated in greater
detail in the accompanying drawings and described below by way of
examples of the invention.
[0025] FIG. 1 is a general lateral side schematic view of a shoe
(fora left foot) employing a sole structure according to a first
embodiment of the present invention.
[0026] FIG. 2 is a partial enlarged view (or an enlarged view of a
heel region of the shoe) of FIG. 1.
[0027] FIG. 3 is a general bottom schematic view of the shoe of
FIG. 1.
[0028] FIG. 4 is a partial enlarged view (or an enlarged view of a
heel region of the shoe) of FIG. 3.
[0029] FIG. 5 is a general perspective view of a wavy structure
constituting the sole structure of FIG. 1.
[0030] FIG. 6 is a lateral side view of the wavy structure of FIG.
5.
[0031] FIG. 7 is a blown-up perspective view of the shoe of FIG.
1.
[0032] FIG. 8 is a bottom-side general perspective view of a
midsole constituting the sole structure of FIG. 1.
[0033] FIG. 9 is a cross sectional view of FIG. 1 taken along line
IX-IX.
[0034] FIG. 10 is a general lateral side schematic view of a shoe
(for a left foot) employing a sole structure according to a second
embodiment of the present invention.
[0035] FIG. 11 is a bottom-side general perspective view of a
midsole constituting the sole structure of FIG. 10.
[0036] FIG. 12 is a cross sectional view of FIG. 10 taken along
line XII-XII.
[0037] FIG. 13 is a general lateral side schematic view of a shoe
(for a left foot) employing a sole structure according to a third
embodiment of the present invention.
[0038] FIG. 14 is a bottom-side general perspective view of a
midsole constituting the sole structure of FIG. 13.
[0039] FIG. 15 is a general lateral side schematic view of a shoe
(for a left foot) employing a sole structure according to a fourth
embodiment of the present invention.
[0040] FIG. 16 is a bottom schematic view of the shoe of FIG.
15.
[0041] FIG. 17 is a blown-up perspective view of the shoe of FIG.
15.
[0042] FIG. 18 is a general perspective view of a wavy structure
constituting the sole structure of FIG. 15.
[0043] FIG. 19 is a bottom view of the wavy structure of FIG.
18.
[0044] FIG. 20 is a lateral side view of the wavy structure of FIG.
18.
[0045] FIG. 21 is a longitudinal sectional schematic view of the
shoe of FIG. 15.
[0046] FIG. 22 is a cross sectional view of FIG. 15 taken along
line XXII-XXII.
[0047] FIG. 23 is a general lateral side schematic view of a shoe
(for a left foot) employing a sole structure according to a fifth
embodiment of the present invention.
[0048] FIG. 24 is a bottom schematic view of the shoe of FIG.
23.
[0049] FIG. 25 is a longitudinal sectional schematic view of the
shoe of FIG. 23.
[0050] FIG. 26 is a cross sectional view of FIG. 23 taken along
line XXVI-XXVI.
[0051] FIG. 27 is a general lateral side schematic view of a shoe
(for a left foot) employing a sole structure according to a sixth
embodiment of the present invention.
[0052] FIG. 28 is a bottom schematic view of the shoe of FIG.
27.
[0053] FIG. 29 is a longitudinal sectional schematic view of the
shoe of FIG. 27.
[0054] FIG. 30 is a cross sectional view of FIG. 27 taken along
line XXX-XXX.
[0055] FIG. 31 is a lateral side view of a wavy structure
constituting a sole structure according to a seventh embodiment of
the present invention.
[0056] FIG. 32 is a lateral side schematic view of a wavy structure
constituting a sole structure according to an eighth embodiment of
the present invention, illustrating the wavy structure along with a
midsole constituting the sole structure.
[0057] FIG. 33 is a general lateral side schematic view of a shoe
(for a left foot) employing a sole structure according to a ninth
embodiment of the present invention.
[0058] FIG. 34 is a bottom schematic view of the shoe of FIG.
33.
[0059] FIG. 35 is a blown-up perspective view of the shoe of FIG.
33.
[0060] FIG. 36 is a general perspective view of a wavy structure
constituting the sole structure of FIG. 33.
[0061] FIG. 37 is a bottom view of the wavy structure of FIG.
36.
[0062] FIG. 38 is a lateral side view of the wavy structure of FIG.
36.
[0063] FIG. 39 is a blown-up perspective view of a sole structure
according to a tenth embodiment of the present invention.
[0064] FIG. 40 is a general lateral side schematic view of a shoe
(for a left foot) employing a sole structure according to an
eleventh embodiment of the present invention.
[0065] FIG. 41 is a bottom schematic view of the shoe of FIG.
40.
[0066] FIG. 42 is a blown-up perspective view of the shoe of FIG.
40.
[0067] FIG. 43 is a bottom-side general perspective view of a wavy
structure and a midsole constituting the sole structure of FIG.
40.
[0068] FIG. 44 is a top-side general perspective view of the wavy
structure of FIG. 43.
[0069] FIG. 45 is a bottom view of the wavy structure of FIG.
43.
[0070] FIG. 46 is a lateral side view of the wavy structure of FIG.
43.
[0071] FIG. 47 is a longitudinal sectional schematic view of the
shoe of FIG. 40.
[0072] FIG. 48 is a cross sectional view of FIG. 40 taken along
line XLVIII-XLVIII.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0073] The present invention will now be described in detail with
reference to embodiments thereof as illustrated in the accompanying
drawings.
First Embodiment
[0074] FIGS. 1 to 9 show a sole structure of a shoe according to a
first embodiment of the present invention. Here, a running shoe is
taken for an example, but the present invention can be also applied
to a walking shoe or other sports shoe.
[0075] In the following explanation, "upward (upper side/upper)"
and "downward (lower side/lower)" designate an upward direction and
a downward direction, respectively, or vertical direction of the
shoe, "forward (front side/front)" and "rearward (rear side/rear)"
designate a forward direction and a rearward direction,
respectively, or longitudinal direction (i.e. foot-length
direction) of the shoe, and "a width or lateral direction"
designates a crosswise direction (i.e. foot-width direction) of the
shoe.
[0076] For example, in FIG. 1, a general lateral side schematic
view of the shoe, "upward" and "downward" designate "upward" and
"downward" in FIG. 1 respectively, or a vertical direction;
"forward" and "rearward" designate "left to right direction" in
FIG. 1, or a longitudinal direction; and "a width direction"
designates "out of the page" and "into the page" of FIG. 1, or a
lateral direction. Also, in the drawings, reference characters H,
M, F designate a heel region, a midfoot region, and a forefoot
region of the shoe, respectively. These regions correspond to and
are adapted to cover a heel portion, a midfoot portion, and a
forefoot portion of a foot of a shoe wearer.
[0077] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 4, Shoe Sp comprises a sole structure
Sk and an upper U disposed above the sole structure Sk. The sole
structure Sk includes a midsole (as a sole body; or a second shock
absorbing component) S.sub.2 extending from the heel region H
through the midfoot region M to the forefoot region F of the shoe
Sp, a wavy structure (as a sole body; or a first shock absorbing
component) S.sub.1 disposed below the midsole S.sub.2 and primarily
at the heel region H of the shoe Sp (specifically, at the heel
region H and a portion of the midfoot region M), and outsoles Os,
Os' disposed below the midsole S.sub.2 and the wavy structure
S.sub.1 and having ground-contact surfaces that come into contact
with the ground.
[0078] The wavy structure S.sub.1, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6,
includes a plurality of (e.g. three) wavy extending parts 10, 11,
12 that respectively extend in a longitudinal direction (or in a
left to right direction of FIG. 6) in a wavy shape and that are
disposed side by side in a lateral direction (or into the page of
FIG. 6), and a plurality of connecting portions 15 that connect the
laterally adjacent wavy extending parts 10, 11, 12 in the lateral
direction.
[0079] Each of the wavy extending parts 10, 11, 12 is a wavy
corrugated thin sheet that extends in a belt-shape. In this
exemplification, the wavy extending parts 10, 12 on the laterally
opposite sides have the same wavy shape. That is, the wavy
extending parts 10, 12 have the same wavelength and amplitude and
thus they are overlapped with each other viewed from the side. The
wavy extending part 11 on the laterally central side has a wavy
shape different from the wavy shape of the wavy extending parts 10,
12 on the laterally opposite sides. The wavy shape of the wavy
extending part 11 has an amplitude and a phase different from an
amplitude and a phase of the wavy shapes of the wavy extending
parts 10, 12, but the wavy shape of the wavy extending part 11 has
the same wavelength as a wavelength of each of the wavy shapes of
the wavy extending parts 10, 12. The phase of the wavy shape of the
wavy extending part 11 is shifted by 7C (i.e.) 180.degree. relative
to the phase of the wavy shape of each of the wavy extending parts
10, 12. In FIG. 6, reference character 11A designates a crest or
ridge portion (i.e. upwardly convex portion) of the wavy shape of
the wavy extending part 11 and reference character 11B designates a
trough or ravine portion (i.e. downwardly convex portion) of the
wavy shape of the wavy extending part 11. Similarly, reference
characters 12A, 10A designate a crest or ridge portion (i.e.
upwardly convex portion) of the wavy shape of the wavy extending
part 12, 10 and reference characters 12B, 10B designate a trough or
ravine portion (i.e. downwardly convex portion) of the wavy shape
of the wavy extending part 12, 10.
[0080] In such a way, a phase shift of it (i.e. 180.degree.)
between the laterally adjacent wavy extending parts 10, 12 and the
wavy extending part 11 can distribute the upwardly convex portions
and the downwardly convex portions of the wavy shapes of the wavy
extending parts 10, 11, 12 equally in the heel region H of the shoe
Sp. Thereby, landing stability can be improved and a load locally
exerted to a foot sole of a wearer can be lessened thus decreasing
a push-up feeling at the time of impacting the ground. Also, in
this case, the connecting portions 15 disposed between the
laterally adjacent wavy extending parts 10, 11 and 12 can perform a
torsional rigidity effectively thus improving a shock
absorbance.
[0081] Each of the connecting portions 15, as shown in FIG. 6, is a
bar that may have but not limited to a circular cross-sectional
shape. Any suitable cross-sectional shape can be adopted as a bar.
The connecting portions 15 interconnect the laterally adjacent wavy
extending parts 10, 11 and 12 at positions where the wavy shapes of
the wavy extending parts 10, 11, 12 intersect with each other
viewed from the side. In this exemplification, as shown in FIG. 5,
the connecting portions 15 extend across the entire width in the
foot-width direction not only between the laterally adjacent wavy
extending parts 10, 11 and 12 but also along the surfaces of the
wavy extending parts 10, 11 and 12. Also, on a front end side of
the wavy structure S.sub.1, the wavy extending parts 10, 11 and 12
are interconnected with each other through the connecting portion
15. On a rear end side of the wavy structure S.sub.1, the wavy
extending parts 10, 11 and 12 are interconnected with each other
through a connecting plate 16.
[0082] As shown by a dash-and-dot line of FIG. 6, a thickness
center plane Oc (i.e. a plane passing through the center in the
thickness direction) of the wavy structure S.sub.1 extends in a
curved shape toward the foot-length direction. On the front end
side, the thickness center plane Oc has an upwardly convexly curved
shape and in a region extending from the central side to the rear
side in the foot-length direction, the thickness center plane Oc
has a downwardly convexly curved shape.
[0083] The wavy structure S.sub.1 may be formed of thermoplastic
resin such as thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), polyamide elastomer
(PAE), Pebax.RTM., BS (butadiene styrene) resin and the like, or
thermosetting resin such as epoxy resin, unsaturated polyester
resin and the like. Also, fiber reinforced plastics
(CFRP/AFRP/GFRP) may be adopted in which carbon fibers, aramid
fibers, glass fibers, respectively, or the like are incorporated as
a strengthened fiber and thermosetting resin or thermoplastic resin
is incorporated as matrix resin. The wavy structure S.sub.1 is
formed by injection molding, press forming, 3D printing and the
like. The wavy structure S.sub.1 may be preferably formed of a
material of a higher rigidity than the midsole S.sub.2. The wavy
extending parts 10, 11, 12, the connecting portion 15, and the
connecting plate 16 of the wavy structure S.sub.1 may be preferably
integrated with each other to facilitate forming.
[0084] The midsole S.sub.2, as shown in FIGS. 7 and 9, includes an
upper surface (or installed surface) S.sub.2a that a bottom portion
Ua of the upper U is pulled over and fixedly attached to by
adhesives or the like and a lower surface S.sub.2b that the wavy
structure S.sub.1 is in contact with. As shown in FIG. 8, on the
lower surface S.sub.2b of the midsole S.sub.2, there are formed a
plurality of laterally extending concavely curved surfaces
S.sub.2b.sub.1, which have a complementary shape with the upwardly
convex portions 10A, 11A, 12A of the wavy shapes of the wavy
extending parts 10, 11, 12 of the wavy structure S.sub.1. The
upwardly convex portions 10A, 11A, 12A of the wavy shapes of the
wavy extending parts 10, 11, 12 of the wavy structure S.sub.1 are
in contact with and fitted and fixedly attached (e.g. by bonding)
to the corresponding concavely curved surfaces (or contact surface)
S.sub.2b.sub.1 of the lower surface S.sub.2b of the midsole
S.sub.2. At this juncture, the connecting plate 16 is also fixedly
attached (e.g. by bonding) to the lower surface S.sub.2b of the
midsole S.sub.2. As a result, the wavy structure S.sub.1 and the
midsole S.sub.2 are integrated with each other to constitute the
sole body S.sub.1, S.sub.2, such that thereby the wavy structure
S.sub.1 and the midsole S.sub.2 cooperate with each other at the
time of acting of the load.
[0085] In this exemplification, only the upper portions of the wavy
structure S.sub.1 are fixedly attached to the midsole S.sub.2 and
the lower portions of the wavy structure S.sub.1 are exposed below
the midsole S.sub.2 as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2.
[0086] The midsole S.sub.2 may be formed of a soft elastic
material, more specifically, thermoplastic synthetic resin and its
foamed resin such as ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA) or the
like, thermosetting synthetic resin and its foamed resin such as
polyurethane (PU) or the like, alternatively, rubber material and
foamed rubber such as butadiene rubber, chloroprene rubber or the
like.
[0087] As shown in FIGS. 3, 4 and 7, the outsoles Os are formed of
a plurality of vertically curved plates of a rectangular shape or a
belt-shape. As shown in FIG. 2, the outsole Os is disposed along
and fixedly attached (e.g. by bonding) to the lower surfaces of the
downwardly convex portions 10B, 11B, 12B of the wavy extending
parts 10, 11, 12 of the wavy structure S.sub.1 and the connecting
portion 16. As shown FIG. 1, an outsole Os' is fixedly attached
(e.g. by bonding) to the lower surface of the midsole S.sub.2 at
the forefoot region F of the shoe Sp.
[0088] The outsoles Os, Os' are formed of elastic materials harder
than the midsole S.sub.2, more specifically, solid rubber,
thermosetting polyurethane and the like.
[0089] According to the above-mentioned embodiment, when the shoe
Sp impacts the ground, an impact force on landing can be absorbed
by an elastic deformation of the midsole S.sub.2 formed of a soft
elastic member, a shock absorbance can be improved and a higher
resilience can be achieved by a compressive deformation of the
respective wavy shapes of the wavy extending parts 10, 11, 12 of
the wavy structure S.sub.1 and a subsequent torsional deformation
and a restoration of the connecting portion 15. At this time, since
the wavy extending parts 10, 11, 12 of the wavy structure S.sub.1
are interconnected to the connecting portion 15 on the front end
side and to the connecting plate 16 on the rear end side, at the
time of action of the load, an elongation of the wavy extending
parts 10, 11, 12 is restrained by the connecting portion 15 on the
front end side and by the connecting plate 16 on the rear end side,
thus further enhancing a shock absorbance and resiliency.
[0090] Moreover, according to the present embodiment, the thickness
center plane Oc of the wavy structure S.sub.1 extends curvedly in
the vertical direction toward the foot-length direction, and more
specifically, the thickness center plane Oc of the wavy structure
S.sub.1 has a downwardly convexly curved shape on the central side
to the rear side of the heel region H and has an upwardly convexly
curved shape on the front end side of the heel region H. When a
shock load is applied to a midportion of the heel region H at the
time of impacting the ground, since the thickness center plane Oc
of the wavy structure S.sub.1 has the downwardly convexly curved
shape on the heel central side to the heel rear side as mentioned
above, the entire wavy structure S.sub.1 curves and deforms
downwardly, thereby contributing to the improvement of shock
absorbance and improving cushioning property. Also, when the load
is transferred from the heel region H to the midfoot region M,
since the thickness center plane Oc of the wavy structure S.sub.1
has the upwardly convexly curved shape on the heel front end side
as mentioned above, a shank effect to restrain an excessive
downward deformation at the midfoot region M can be displayed, thus
smoothly transferring the load from the midfoot region M to the
forefoot region F. In such a manner, a running feeling during
running can be improved.
[0091] Also, in this case, a portion of the wavy structure S.sub.1
is fixedly attached to the midsole S.sub.2, and the wavy structure
S.sub.1 and the midsole S.sub.2 are integrated with each other to
constitute the sole body S.sub.1, S.sub.2. As a result of this, at
the time of a load transfer during landing and running, the wavy
structure S.sub.1 and the midsole S.sub.2 cooperate with each
other, such that thereby a load transfer between the wavy structure
S.sub.1 and the midsole S.sub.2 can be performed in a smooth
manner.
[0092] Furthermore, in this case, since the wavy structure S.sub.1
is formed of a material of a higher rigidity than the midsole
S.sub.2, cushioning property on landing can be secured by the
midsole S.sub.2 of a relatively lower rigidity and a shock
absorbance and resilience during landing can be improved by the
wavy structure S.sub.1 of a relatively higher rigidity.
[0093] In addition, for a midfoot runner who strikes onto the
ground from the midfoot region M of the shoe Sp, the wavy structure
S.sub.1 may be disposed at the midfoot region M, and for a forefoot
runner who strikes onto the ground from the forefoot region F of
the shoe Sp, the wavy structure S.sub.1 may be disposed at the
forefoot region F. In such a manner, a shock absorbance and a
running feeling can be effectively enhanced according to the
characteristics of runners' running styles. Also, according to the
characteristics of athletic events and running habits of shoe
wearers, the wavy structure S.sub.1 may be disposed at the heel
region H and the midfoot region M, alternatively at the forefoot
region F and the midfoot region M of the shoe Sp.
[0094] In the present embodiment, an example was shown in which the
lower surface S.sub.2b of the midsole S.sub.2 has concavely curved
surfaces S.sub.2b.sub.1 formed thereon to be in surface-contact and
engaged with the upper surface of the upwardly convex portions 10A,
11A, 12A of the wavy shapes of the wavy extending parts 10, 11, 12
of the wavy structure S.sub.1. However, concavely curved surfaces
may be formed on the lower surface S.sub.2b of the midsole S.sub.2
that are to be in surface-contact and engaged with the upwardly
convex portions 10A, 11A, 12A as well as the downwardly convex
portions 10B, 11B, 12B. In this case, the entire upper surface of
the wavy structure S.sub.1 is in surface contact with and bonded to
the midsole S.sub.2.
Second Embodiment
[0095] FIGS. 10 to 12 show a sole structure of a shoe (or a running
shoe) according to a second embodiment of the present invention. In
these drawings, like reference characters indicate identical or
functionally similar elements to those in the first embodiment.
[0096] As shown in FIGS. 10 to 12, this second embodiment differs
from the first embodiment in that the midsole S.sub.2 has a pair of
extensions S.sub.2h extending downwardly from the medial and
lateral side edge portions. The extensions S.sub.2h, as shown in
FIGS. 10 and 11, are provided principally at the midportion of the
heel region H in this exemplification.
[0097] Provision of such extensions S.sub.2h facilitates a lateral
positioning of the wavy structure S.sub.1 in installing the wavy
structure S.sub.1 into the midsole S.sub.2. Also, after
installation, a longitudinal central portion of the wavy structure
S.sub.1 can be covered from the side, and after loading, a lateral
movement of the wavy structure S.sub.1 can be restricted, thus
improving landing stability.
Third Embodiment
[0098] FIGS. 13 and 14 show a sole structure of a shoe (or a
running shoe) according to a third embodiment of the present
invention. In these drawings, like reference characters indicate
identical or functionally similar elements to those in the first
and second embodiments.
[0099] In this third embodiment, an extension S.sub.2h' extending
downwardly from the midsole S.sub.2 is provided along the entire
medial and lateral side edge portions of the midsole S.sub.2 at the
heel region H to the midfoot region M and provided also at the heel
side edge portions. That is, according to the third embodiment, the
extension S.sub.2h' circumscribes the entire heel region H and a
portion of the midfoot region M along the outer circumferential
edge portions of the midsole S.sub.2 at the heel region H to the
midfoot region M. The midsole S.sub.2 has a concavity formed
therein to accommodate the wavy structure S.sub.1.
[0100] Provision of such an extension S.sub.2h' causes a lateral
and longitudinal positioning of the wavy structure S.sub.1 to be
conducted more easily in installing the wavy structure S.sub.1 into
the midsole S.sub.2. Also, after installation, the wavy structure
S.sub.1 can be covered from the side in the entire longitudinal
direction, and after loading, a lateral movement of the wavy
structure S.sub.1 can be more securely restricted, thus further
improving landing stability.
Fourth Embodiment
[0101] FIGS. 15 and 22 show a sole structure of a shoe (or a
running shoe) according to a fourth embodiment of the present
invention. In these drawings, like reference characters indicate
identical or functionally similar elements to those in the first to
third embodiments.
[0102] This fourth embodiment differs from the first embodiment in
that the midsole comprises an upper midsole S.sub.2 disposed on an
upper side of the sole structure Sk and a lower midsole S.sub.2'
disposed on a lower side of the sole structure Sk, the wavy
structure S.sub.1 extends from the heel region H through the
midfoot region M to the forefoot region F of the shoe Sp, a portion
of the wavy structure S.sub.1 is embedded into the upper and lower
midsoles S.sub.2, S.sub.2', and the outsoles Os, Os' are provided
at the lower surface of the lower midsole S.sub.2'.
[0103] As shown in FIGS. 15 to 17 and 21, both of the upper and
lower midsoles S.sub.2, S.sub.2' extend from the heel region H
through the midfoot region M to the forefoot region F of the shoe
Sp. Between the lower surface S.sub.2b of the upper midsole S.sub.2
and the upper surface S.sub.2'a of the lower midsole S.sub.2',
there are formed a plurality of cushioning holes Ch extending in
the lateral direction. The wavy structure S.sub.1 is sandwiched in
the vertical direction between the upper and lower midsoles
S.sub.2, S.sub.2'. As shown in FIGS. 17 and 22, the lower surface
S.sub.2b of the upper midsole S.sub.2 has a recessed groove formed
thereon, which has a contact surface S.sub.2b.sub.1 that is in
contact with the wavy structure S.sub.1. Similarly, the upper
surface S.sub.2'a of the lower midsole S.sub.2' has a recessed
groove formed thereon, which has a contact surface S.sub.2'a.sub.1
that is in contact with the wavy structure S.sub.1. That is, in
this case, a portion of the wavy structure S.sub.1 is embedded into
the upper and lower midsoles S.sub.2, S.sub.2'. The wavy structure
S.sub.1 is fixedly attached by bonding or the like to the contact
surface S.sub.2b.sub.1 of the upper midsole S.sub.2 and the contact
surface S.sub.2'a.sub.1 of the lower midsole S.sub.2'.
[0104] As shown in FIGS. 18 to 20, the wavy structure S.sub.1
comprises a plurality of (e.g. five) wavy extending parts 10, 10'
that extend in a wavy-shape in the foot-length direction (i.e. to
the left-to-right direction in FIGS. 19 to 20) respectively and are
disposed side by side in the foot-width direction (i.e. in the
upward/downward direction in FIG. 19, into/out of the page of FIG.
20) and a plurality of connecting portions 15 that interconnect the
laterally adjacent wavy extending parts 10, 10' in the foot-width
direction.
[0105] The wavy extending parts 10, 10' are thin corrugated sheets
that respectively extend in a belt-shape. In this exemplification,
the wavy extending parts 10 that are disposed on laterally opposite
end sides and in the laterally central position have the same wavy
shape, in which respective wave lengths and amplitudes are equal to
each other, such that thereby respective wavy extending parts 10
are overlapped with each other viewed from the side. Likewise, the
wavy extending parts 10' that are disposed immediately inside the
outermost wavy extending parts 10 on the laterally opposite end
sides have the same wavy shape, in which respective wave lengths
and amplitudes are equal to each other, such that thereby
respective wavy extending parts 10' are overlapped with each other
viewed from the side. The respective wavy shapes of the wavy
extending parts 10, 10' are different, and thus the respective
amplitudes and phases are different from each other but the
respective wavelengths are equal to each other. The phase of the
wavy shape of the wavy extending part 10' is shifted by .pi. (i.e.
180.degree.) relative to the phase of the wavy shape of the wavy
extending part 10. In FIG. 20, reference characters 10A, 10'A
designate crest portions (i.e. upwardly convex portions) of the
wavy shapes of the wavy extending parts 10, 10', and reference
characters 10B, 10'B designate trough portions (i.e. downwardly
convex portions) of the wavy shapes of the wavy extending parts 10,
10'.
[0106] As shown in FIGS. 18 to 20, in this exemplification, each of
the connecting portions 15 is formed of a thin plate-like portion
that has the same thickness as that of the wavy extending portions
10, 10'. The connecting portions 15 interconnect the wavy extending
parts 10, 10' at positions that the respective wavy shapes of the
respective wavy extending parts 10, 10' intersect with each other
viewed from the side.
[0107] As shown by a dash-and-dot line in FIG. 20, the thickness
center plane Oc of the wavy structure S.sub.1 extends curvedly in
the vertical direction toward the foot-length direction. The
thickness center plane Oc has a downwardly convexly curved shape at
the heel region H, an upwardly convexly curved shape at the midfoot
region M, and a downwardly convexly curved shape at the forefoot
region F.
[0108] According to the embodiment, when the shoe Sp impacts the
ground, an impact force on landing can be absorbed by an elastic
deformation of the midsoles S.sub.2, S.sub.2' formed of a soft
elastic member, a shock absorbance can be improved and a higher
resilience can be achieved by a compressive deformation of the
respective wavy shapes of the wavy extending parts 10, 10' of the
wavy structure S.sub.1 and a subsequent torsional deformation and a
restoration of the connecting portion 15. At this time, since the
wavy extending parts 10, 10' of the wavy structure S.sub.1 are
interconnected to the connecting portions 15 on the front and rear
end sides, at the time of action of the load, an elongation of the
wavy extending parts 10, 10' is restrained by the connecting
portions 15 on the front and rear end sides, thus further enhancing
a shock absorbance and resiliency.
[0109] Moreover, according to the present embodiment, the thickness
center plane Oc of the wavy structure S.sub.1 extends curvedly in
the vertical direction toward the foot-length direction, and more
specifically, the thickness center plane Oc of the wavy structure
S.sub.1 has a downwardly convexly curved shape at the heel region
H, an upwardly convexly curved shape at the midfoot region M, and a
downwardly convexly curved shape at the forefoot region F. When a
shock load is applied to a midportion of the heel region H at the
time of impacting the ground, since the thickness center plane Oc
of the wavy structure S.sub.1 has the downwardly convexly curved
shape at the heel region H, as mentioned above, the entire wavy
structure S.sub.1 curves and deforms downwardly, thereby
contributing to the improvement of shock absorbance and improving
cushioning property. Also, when the load is transferred from the
heel region H to the midfoot region M, since the thickness center
plane Oc of the wavy structure S.sub.1 has the upwardly convexly
curved shape at the midfoot region M, as mentioned above, a shank
effect to restrain an excessive downward deformation at the midfoot
region M can be displayed, thus smoothly transferring the load from
the midfoot region M to the forefoot region F. In such a manner, a
running feeling during running can be improved. Moreover, when the
load is transferred to the forefoot region F, since the thickness
center plane Oc of the wavy structure S.sub.1 has the downwardly
convexly curved shape at the forefoot region F, as mentioned above,
a sole bendability at the forefoot region F can be improved thus
enhancing a running feeling during running.
[0110] Also, in this case, a portion of the wavy structure S.sub.1
is fixedly attached to the midsoles S.sub.2, S.sub.2' and the wavy
structure S.sub.1 and the midsoles S.sub.2, S.sub.2' are integrated
to constitute the sole body S.sub.1, S.sub.2, S.sub.2'. As a result
of this, at the time of a load transfer during landing and running,
the wavy structure S.sub.1 and the midsoles S.sub.2, S.sub.2'
cooperate with each other, such that thereby the load transfer
between the wavy structure S.sub.1 and the midsoles S.sub.2,
S.sub.2' can be performed in a smooth manner.
Fifth Embodiment
[0111] FIGS. 23 to 26 show a sole structure of a shoe (or a running
shoe) according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. In
these drawings, like reference characters indicate identical or
functionally similar elements to those in the first to fourth
embodiments.
[0112] In this fifth embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 23, 25 and 26, a
portion of the wavy structure S.sub.1 (specifically, the upwardly
convex portions of the wavy shapes) is embedded in the midsole
S.sub.2. For example, the wavy structure S.sub.1 may be formed by
insert molding when forming the midsole S.sub.2.
[0113] In this case, when fixing the wavy structure S.sub.1 to the
midsole S.sub.2, bonding work becomes unnecessary. Also, since a
portion of the wavy structure S.sub.1 is embedded and fixed in the
midsole S.sub.2, the wavy structure S.sub.1 can be more firmly
fixed to the midsole S.sub.2 thus improving a strength of the
entire sole structure Sk.
Sixth Embodiment
[0114] FIGS. 27 to 30 show a sole structure of a shoe (or a running
shoe) according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention. In
these drawings, like reference characters indicate identical or
functionally similar elements to those in the first to fifth
embodiments.
[0115] In this sixth embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 27, 29 and 30,
the entire wavy structure S.sub.1 is embedded in the midsole
S.sub.2. For example, the wavy structure S.sub.1 is formed by
insert molding when forming the midsole S.sub.2. In this case, for
example, the wavy structure S.sub.1 may be put into a forming die
for the midsole S.sub.2 along with expandable beads (e.g. E-TPU
(Expanded-Thermo Plastic Polyurethane)), and the expandable beads
may be fusion-bonded by steam and the like. By so doing, the
midsole S.sub.2 is formed of a soft foamed member of aggregate of
beads, the surface of the wavy structure S.sub.1 is covered by the
bead-like soft foamed member, and the bead-like soft foamed member
enters into the wavy structure S.sub.1. In such a manner, the wavy
structure S.sub.1 is embedded into the bead-like soft foamed
member. Additionally, the bead-like soft foamed member may be
bonded to the surface of the wavy structure S.sub.1 via a bonding
layer.
[0116] In this case, when fixing the wavy structure S.sub.1 to the
midsole S.sub.2, bonding work becomes unnecessary. Also, since the
entire wavy structure S.sub.1 is embedded and fixed in the midsole
S.sub.2, the wavy structure S.sub.1 can be furthermore firmly fixed
to the midsole S.sub.2 thus improving the strength of the entire
sole structure Sk.
Seventh Embodiment
[0117] FIG. 31 shows a wavy structure constituting a sole structure
according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention. In the
drawing, like reference characters indicate identical or
functionally similar elements to those in the first to sixth
embodiments. FIG. 31 illustrates a variant of FIG. 20 in the fourth
embodiment of the present invention.
[0118] According to this seventh embodiment, in the wavy structure
S.sub.1 shown in FIG. 20, upraised portions 10Ah extending upwardly
are provided at the wavy extending part 10 on the outermost side in
the foot-width direction.
[0119] In this case, the upraised portions 10Ah can support the
midsole S.sub.2 in the foot-width direction, thereby preventing the
foot from leaning sideways to support the foot stably. Also,
provision of the upraised portions 10AH can increase a fixing area
(e.g. a bonding area) to improve the strength of the entire sole
structure Sk.
Eighth Embodiment
[0120] FIG. 32 shows a wavy structure constituting a sole structure
according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention. In the
drawing, like reference characters indicate identical or
functionally similar elements to those in the first to seventh
embodiments. FIG. 32 illustrates another variant of FIG. 20 in the
fourth embodiment of the present invention.
[0121] In this eighth embodiment, the wavy structure S.sub.1
extends from the heel region H through the midfoot region M to the
forefoot region F of the shoe and the entire wavy structure S.sub.1
is embedded in the midsole S.sub.2. The thickness center plane Oc
of the wavy structure S.sub.1 is disposed below the thickness
center plane S.sub.2c of the sole body S.sub.1, S.sub.2 at the
forefoot region F, disposed above the thickness center plane
S.sub.2c of the sole body S.sub.1, S.sub.2 at an anterior end
portion of the heel region H, and disposed below the thickness
center plane S.sub.2c of the sole body S.sub.1, S.sub.2 at a
posterior end portion of the heel region H.
[0122] In this case, since the thickness center plane Oc of the
wavy structure S.sub.1 is disposed above the thickness center plane
S.sub.2c of the sole body S.sub.1, S.sub.2 at the anterior end
portion of the heel region H and below the thickness center plane
S.sub.2c of the sole body S.sub.1, S.sub.2 at the posterior end
portion of the heel region H, as mentioned above, the thickness
center plane Oc of the wavy structure S.sub.1 is inclined
diagonally upwardly toward the forward direction at the posterior
end portion to the anterior end portion of the heel region H.
Therefore, at the time of a heel-impact onto the ground, a shock
load F imparted diagonally forwardly from the heel of the foot to
the sole below acts onto a diagonally-upwardly inclined portion of
the wavy structure S.sub.1 generally perpendicularly at the
anterior end portion of the heel region H. Thereby, the shock load
at the time of a heel-impact can be securely received by the wavy
structure S.sub.1 at the anterior end portion of the heel region H.
As a result of this, a shock absorbance can be improved.
[0123] Also, since the thickness center plane Oc of the wavy
structure S.sub.1 is disposed below the thickness center plane Sec
of the sole body S.sub.1, S.sub.2 at the forefoot region F and
above the thickness center plane S.sub.2c of the sole body S.sub.1,
S.sub.2 at the anterior end portion of the heel region H, as
mentioned above, the thickness center plane Oc of the wavy
structure S.sub.1 is inclined diagonally downwardly toward the
forward direction at the forefoot region F. Thereby, bending
rigidity of the wavy structure S.sub.1 can be enhanced at the
forefoot region F, and as a result of this, an energy loss during
running can be reduced.
Ninth Embodiment
[0124] FIGS. 33 to 38 show a sole structure of a shoe (or a running
shoe) according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention. In
these drawings, like reference characters indicate identical or
functionally similar elements to those in the first to eighth
embodiments.
[0125] In this ninth embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 33 to 35, the
upper midsole S.sub.2 extends from the heel region H through the
midfoot region M to the forefoot region F of the shoe Sp, whereas
the lower midsole S.sub.2' is disposed at the heel region H to the
midfoot region M of the shoe Sp. The wavy structure S.sub.1 extends
from the heel region H through the midfoot region M to the forefoot
region F of the shoe Sp. The outsole Os is disposed on the lower
surface of the lower midsole S.sub.2' at the heel region H of the
shoe Sp and the outsole Os' is disposed on the lower surface of the
wavy structure S.sub.1 at the forefoot region F of the shoe Sp.
[0126] As shown in FIGS. 36 to 38, the wavy structure S.sub.1
comprises a plurality of (e.g. five) wavy extending parts 10.sub.1,
10.sub.2, 10.sub.3, 10' that extend in a wavy-shape in the
foot-length direction (i.e. to the left-to-right direction in FIGS.
37 and 38) and that are disposed side by side in the foot-width
direction (i.e. in the upper/lower direction of FIG. 37; in the
perpendicular direction to the page of FIG. 38), and a plurality of
connecting portions 15 that interconnect the laterally adjacent
wavy extending parts 10.sub.1, 10.sub.2, 10.sub.3, 10' in the
foot-width direction. The wavy extending part 10' is disposed on
laterally opposite outermost sides of the wavy structure S.sub.1
and the wavy extending parts 10.sub.1, 10.sub.2, 10.sub.3 are
disposed between the oppositely disposed wavy extending parts 10'
and 10' on the outermost sides.
[0127] Each of the wavy extending parts 10.sub.1, 10.sub.2,
10.sub.3, 10' is a thin wavy corrugated sheet that extends in a
belt-shape. The phase of the wavy shape of each of the wavy
extending parts 10', 10.sub.2, is shifted by .pi. (i.e.
180.degree.) relative to the phase of the wavy shape of each of the
wavy extending parts 10.sub.1, 10.sub.3. In FIG. 38, reference
characters 10A designate the crest portions (i.e. the upwardly
convex portions) of the wavy shapes of the wavy extending parts
10.sub.1, 10.sub.3, and reference characters 10'A designate the
crest portions (i.e. the upwardly convex portions) of the wavy
shapes of the wavy extending parts 10.sub.2, 10'. Reference
characters 10B designate the trough portions (i.e. the downwardly
convex portions) of the wavy shapes of the wavy extending parts
10.sub.1, 10.sub.3, and reference characters 10'B designate the
trough portions (i.e. the downwardly convex portions) of the wavy
shapes of the wavy extending parts 10.sub.2, 10'.
[0128] In the wavy structure S.sub.1, the wavy extending parts 10',
10' on the laterally opposite outermost sides and the wavy
expending parts 10.sub.1, 10.sub.3 disposed inside the wavy
extending parts 10', 10' extend from the heel rear end of the heel
region H through the midfoot region M to the forefoot region F of
the shoe Sp, but the centrally-disposed wavy extending part
10.sub.2 is not disposed at the heel region H and extends from the
front-end side portion of the midfoot region M to the forefoot
region F.
[0129] The laterally adjacent wavy extending parts 10', 10.sub.1 on
the lateral side are provided separately from each other via a slit
e from the forefoot region F to the front end portion of the heel
region H, but are integrated with each other to form one unitary
wavy extending part 10'' from the front end portion of the heel
region H to the heel rear end. Likewise, the laterally adjacent
wavy extending parts 10', 10.sub.3 on the medial side are provided
separately from each other via a slit e from the forefoot region F
to the front end portion of the heel region H, but are integrated
with each other to form one unitary wavy extending part 10'' from
the front end portion of the heel region H to the heel rear
end.
[0130] A pair of upwardly extending upraised portions 10'A are
provided at the laterally opposite outermost wavy extending parts
10', 10'. The connecting portions 15 interconnect the wavy
extending parts 10.sub.1, 10.sub.2, 10.sub.3, 10' at positions that
the wavy shapes of the wavy extending parts 10.sub.1, 10.sub.3
intersect the wavy shapes of the wavy extending parts 10.sub.2, 10'
viewed from the side.
[0131] According to the present invention, since the laterally
adjacent wavy extending parts 10', 10.sub.1 (or 10', 10.sub.3) are
integrated to form a unitary wavy extending part 10'' at the front
end portion of the heel region H to the heel rear end as mentioned
above, bending rigidity can be enhanced in the foot-width direction
of the wavy structure S.sub.1, thus strengthening the landing
stability and the running stability. In addition, the wavy
extending parts to be integrated with each other are not limited to
those on the medial/lateral side but may be the one/ones on the
laterally central side. Also, the number of the wavy extending
parts to be integrated with each other may be three or more.
Furthermore, the position of the two or more wavy extending parts
to be integrated with each other may be any of the positions in the
foot-length direction.
[0132] According to the present embodiment, since the upraised
portions 10'Ah are provided at the wavy extending part 10', the
midsole S.sub.2 can be supported in the foot-width direction thus
preventing the foot from leaning sideways to support the foot
stably. Also, a provision of the upraised portions 10'Ah can
increase a fixing area (e.g. bonding area) relative to the midsole
S.sub.2 thus strengthening the sole structure Sk.
Tenth Embodiment
[0133] FIG. 39 shows a sole structure of a shoe (or a running shoe)
according to a tenth embodiment of the present invention. In these
drawings, like reference characters indicate identical or
functionally similar elements to those in the first to ninth
embodiments.
[0134] In this tenth embodiment, as shown in FIG. 39, the wavy
structure comprises two wavy structures S.sub.1, S.sub.1'. The wavy
structures S.sub.1, S.sub.1' are separated from and adjacent to
each other in the foot-width direction. The wavy structure S.sub.1
is formed of a plurality of (e.g. two) wavy extending parts 10, 10'
whose phases are shifted by .pi. (i.e. 180.degree.) and the wavy
extending parts 10, 10' are interconnected to each other by the
connecting portions 15. In the same manner, the wavy structure
S.sub.2 is formed of a plurality of (e.g. two) wavy extending parts
10, 10' whose phases are shifted by it (i.e.) 180.degree. and the
wavy extending parts 10, 10' are interconnected to each other by
the connecting portions 15.
[0135] In this case, the wavy structures S.sub.1, S.sub.1' disposed
independently of each other on the medial and lateral sides of the
foot can exhibit an independent function, thereby performing a more
delicate control of shock absorbance and running feeling. In
addition, the wavy structures of two or more may be separated from
each other (e.g. at the midfoot region M) in the foot-length
direction. In this case, the wavy structures S.sub.1, S.sub.1'
disposed independently of each other between the front side and the
rear side of the foot can exhibit an independent function
respectively, thereby performing a more delicate control of shock
absorbance and running feeling. Additionally, the wavy structures
to be separated from each other in the foot-width and/or
foot-length direction may be composed of three wavy structures.
Eleventh Embodiment
[0136] FIGS. 40 to 48 show a sole structure of a shoe (or a running
shoe) according to an eleventh embodiment of the present invention.
In these drawings, like reference characters indicate identical or
functionally similar elements to those in the first to tenth
embodiments.
[0137] In the above-mentioned first to tenth embodiments, each of
the wavy extending parts of the wavy structure S.sub.1 is formed of
a belt-shaped wavy sheet, but in this eleventh embodiment, the wavy
structure S.sub.1 comprises wavy-shaped wires.
[0138] As shown in FIGS. 40, 42, the midsole S.sub.2 extends from
the heel region H through the midfoot region M to the forefoot
region F of the shoe Sp. As shown in FIG. 43, there is formed a
cavity S.sub.2B to accommodate the wavy structure S.sub.1 in the
lower surface of the midsole S.sub.2. The cavity S.sub.2B is
enclosed by peripheral wall portions S.sub.2h'' disposed along the
outer circumferential edge portions of the midsole S.sub.2 at the
entire heel region H and a portion of the midfoot region M. In the
lower surface S.sub.2b of the midsole S.sub.2 in the cavity
S.sub.2B, there are formed a plurality of engagement grooves
S.sub.2b.sub.1' to be engaged with a part of the crest portions
(i.e. upwardly convex portions) of the wavy shapes of the wavy
structure S.sub.1. As shown in FIGS. 47, 48, a part of the upper
portions of the wavy structure S.sub.1 is embedded in the midsole
S.sub.2 and fixedly attached to the engagement grooves
S.sub.2b.sub.1' by bonding and the like. As shown in FIG. 40, a
part of the trough portions (i.e. downwardly convex portions) of
the wavy shapes of the wavy structure S.sub.1 is exposed below the
midsole S.sub.2.
[0139] As shown in FIGS. 44 to 46, the wavy structure S.sub.1
comprises a plurality of (e.g. nine) wavy extending parts 10.sub.1
to 10.sub.9 that respectively extend in a wavy-shape in the
foot-length direction (i.e. to the left-to-right direction of FIGS.
45, 46) and that are disposed side by side in the foot-width
direction (i.e. upward/downward direction of FIG. 45; direction
perpendicular to the page of FIG. 46), and a plurality of
connecting portions 15.sub.1 to 15.sub.8, 15' that interconnect the
laterally adjacent wavy extending parts 10.sub.1 to 10.sub.9.
[0140] Each of the wavy extending parts 10.sub.1 to 10.sub.9 is a
wavy corrugated wire that is formed in a wavy-shape. In this
exemplification, the wavy extending parts 10.sub.1, 10.sub.3,
10.sub.5, 10.sub.7, 10.sub.9 have the same wavy-shape and the
respective wavelength and amplitude are equal to each other. As
viewed from the side, the wavy extending parts 10.sub.1, 10.sub.3,
10.sub.5, 10.sub.7, 10.sub.9 are overlapped with each other (see
FIG. 46). The wavy extending parts 10.sub.2, 10.sub.4, 10.sub.6,
10.sub.8 disposed respectively between the wavy extending parts
10.sub.1, 10.sub.3, 10.sub.5, 10.sub.7, 10.sub.9 have the same
wavy-shape and the respective wavelengths and amplitudes are equal
to each other. As viewed from the side, the wavy extending parts
10.sub.2, 10.sub.4, 10.sub.6, 10.sub.8 are overlapped with each
other (see FIG. 46), but the respective phases of the wavy-shapes
of the wavy extending parts 10.sub.2, 10.sub.4, 10.sub.6, 10.sub.8
are shifted or dephased by n (i.e. 180.degree.) relative to the
respective phases of the wavy-shapes of the wavy extending parts
10.sub.1, 10.sub.3, 10.sub.5, 10.sub.7, 10.sub.9. In FIG. 46,
reference characters 10A indicate the crest portions (i.e. upwardly
convex portions) of the respective wavy shapes of the wavy
extending parts 10.sub.1 to 10.sub.9. Reference characters 10B
indicate the trough portions (i.e. downwardly convex portions) of
the respective wavy shapes of the wavy extending parts 10.sub.1 to
10.sub.9. The wavy structure S.sub.1 is preferably formed of a
material of a higher rigidity than that of the midsole S.sub.2.
[0141] As shown FIG. 44, on the front-end side of the wavy
structure S.sub.1, there are provided connecting portions 15.sub.1
to 15.sub.8 that interconnect the respective front ends of the wavy
extending parts 10.sub.1 to 10.sub.9. The connecting portion
15.sub.1 interconnects the front ends of the wavy extending parts
10.sub.1, 10.sub.2, the connecting portion 15.sub.2 interconnects
the front ends of the wavy extending parts 10.sub.2, 10.sub.3, the
connecting portion 15.sub.3 interconnects the front ends of the
wavy extending parts 10.sub.3, 10.sub.4, the connecting portion
15.sub.4 interconnects the front ends of the wavy extending parts
10.sub.4, 10.sub.5, the connecting portion 15.sub.5 interconnects
the front ends of the wavy extending parts 10.sub.5, 10.sub.6, the
connecting portion 156 interconnects the front ends of the wavy
extending parts 10.sub.6, 10.sub.7, the connecting portion 157
interconnects the front ends of the wavy extending parts 10.sub.7,
10.sub.8, and the connecting portion 15.sub.8 interconnects the
front ends of the wavy extending parts 10.sub.8, 10.sub.9,
respectively. The connecting portions 15.sub.1 to 15.sub.8 extend
diagonally relative to the foot-width direction. On the rear end
side of the wavy structure S.sub.1, there are provided connecting
portions 15' that interconnect the respective rear ends of the wavy
extending parts 10.sub.1 to 10.sub.9. Between the front end side
and the rear end side of the wavy structure S.sub.1, no connecting
portion is provided that interconnects the wavy extending parts
10.sub.1 to 10.sub.9. The connecting portions 15.sub.1 to 15.sub.8
and 15' are formed of wires similar to the wavy extending parts
10.sub.1 to 10.sub.9. In this exemplification, each of the wavy
extending parts 10.sub.1 to 10.sub.9 and the connecting portions
15.sub.1 to 15.sub.8, 15' has a circular cross-sectional shape, but
the respective cross-sectional shapes may be rectangular or other
shapes.
[0142] As shown by a dash-and-dot-line of FIG. 46, the thickness
center plane Oc of the wavy structure S.sub.1, that is, the plane
passing through the center of the thickness of the wavy structure
S.sub.1, extends curvedly in the vertical direction toward the
foot-length direction. The thickness center plane Oc has an
upwardly convexly curved shape on the front-end side and a
downwardly convexly curved shape on the central side to the rear
end side in the foot-length direction.
[0143] As shown FIG. 41, on lower surfaces of the trough portions
10B (i.e. downwardly convex portions) of the wavy shapes of the
wavy extending parts 10.sub.1 to 10.sub.9 of the wavy structure
S.sub.1, outsoles Os are fixedly attached by bonding and the like.
Each of the outsoles Os is a half-cut semi-cylindrical member that
is wrapped around and fixedly attached to an outer circumferential
lower portion of the downwardly convex portion 10B.
[0144] When the shoe Sp strikes onto the ground, an impact force
can be absorbed by an elastic deformation of the midsole S.sub.2 of
a soft elastic member, a shock absorbance can be improved and a
high resilience can be achieved by a compressive deformation of the
wavy shapes of the wavy extending parts 10.sub.1 to 10.sub.9 of the
wavy structure S.sub.1 and subsequent deformation of the connecting
portions 15.sub.1 to 15.sub.8 and its restoration. At this
juncture, since the front and rear end sides of the wavy extending
parts 10.sub.1 to 10.sub.9 of the wavy structure S.sub.1 are
respectively interconnected to each other through the connecting
portions 15.sub.1 to 15.sub.8, 15' and at the time of action of the
load an elongation of each of the wavy extending parts 10.sub.1 to
10.sub.9 is restricted by the connecting portions 15.sub.1 to
15.sub.8, 15' on the front and rear end sides, a shock absorbance
and resilience can be further improved.
[0145] Moreover, in this case, the thickness center plane Oc of the
wavy structure S.sub.1 extends curvedly in the vertical direction
toward the foot-length direction, and more specifically, the
thickness center plane Oc has a downwardly convexly curved shape at
the central side to the rear end side of the heel region H and an
upwardly convexly curved shape at the front end side of the heel
region H. When a shock load is imparted to the central portion of
the heel region H at the time of impacting the ground, since the
region from the heel central side to the heel rear end side has a
downwardly convex shape, the entire wavy structure S.sub.1 deforms
to bend downwardly, which contributes to improve shock absorbance
to enhance cushioning property. Also, when a load is transferred
from the heel region H to the midfoot region M, since the heel
front end side region has an upwardly convex shape, which exhibits
a shank effect to restrain an excessive downward bending at the
midfoot region M, thus transferring the load smoothly from the
midfoot region M to the forefoot region F to improve a running
feeling during running.
[0146] Moreover, in this case, since a portion of the wavy
structure S.sub.1 is fixedly attached to the midsole S.sub.2, such
that thereby the wavy structure S.sub.1 and the midsole S.sub.2 are
integrated with each other to constitute the sole body S.sub.1,
S.sub.2. As a result, at the time of a load transfer during landing
and running, the wavy structure S.sub.1 and the midsole S.sub.2
cooperate together, thus performing a load transmission between the
wavy structure S.sub.1 and the midsole S.sub.2 in a smooth
manner.
[0147] Furthermore, in this case, since the wavy structure S.sub.1
is formed of a material of a higher rigidity than a material of the
midsole S.sub.2, the midsole S.sub.2 of a relatively lower rigidity
can secure cushioning property on lading and the wavy structure
S.sub.1 of a relatively higher rigidity can improve shock
absorbance on landing and enhance running stability.
[0148] Additionally, in the present embodiment, an example was
shown in which the cavity S.sub.2B is formed in the lower surface
of the midsole S.sub.2 to accommodate the wavy structure S.sub.1,
but an application of the present invention not limited to such an
example. A portion of or the entire wavy structure S.sub.1 may be
embedded in the midsole S.sub.2 by a foam molding using an insert
molding or foamed beads.
[0149] <First Variant>
[0150] The wavy shape of each of wavy extending parts of the wavy
structure S.sub.1 is not limited to such wavy shapes as shown in
the respective above-mentioned embodiments. A sinusoidal wavy
shape, trapezoidal wavy shape, triangular wavy shape or any other
suitable shapes can be adopted and a combination of different wavy
shapes can be also employed. Amplitudes, wavelengths and phases of
the wavy shapes of the wavy extending parts may be equal to each
other or different from each other. Furthermore, widths,
thicknesses and diameters of the wavy extending parts may be equal
to each other or different from each other. The thicknesses and
diameters may be altered at the same wavy extending parts, for
example, thicker in thickness and greater in diameter at the heel
region.
[0151] <Second Variant>
[0152] The respective connecting portions of the wavy structure
S.sub.1 do not need to have the same diameter and size. Also, the
distance of the respective connecting portions in the foot-length
direction may be equal or different.
[0153] As mentioned above, the present invention is useful for a
sole for a shoe that can absorb the impact force at the time of
impacting the ground and that can improve running feeling during
running.
[0154] Those skilled in the art to which the invention pertains may
make modifications and other embodiments employing the principles
of this invention without departing from its spirit or essential
characteristics particularly upon considering the foregoing
teachings. The described embodiments and examples are to be
considered in all respects only as illustrative and not
restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by
the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description.
Consequently, while the invention has been described with reference
to particular embodiments and examples, modifications of structure,
sequence, materials and the like would be apparent to those skilled
in the art, yet fall within the scope of the invention.
* * * * *