Footwear Article

Abstract

A footwear article (200a) for providing for static discharge from the body of a user of the footwear article (200a) to a ground surface, said footwear article (200a) including an outsole (220a) having one or more apertures extending therethrough so as to provide a passage from an upper surface (224a) of the outsole (220a) to a ground surface; an upper (222a), said upper (222a) extending from at least a portion of periphery of the outsole (220a), and extending over at least a portion of the foot of the user, so as to affix the footwear to the foot of the user; an insole (250a) located above said outsole (220a); and an electrically conductive discharge element (242a) located within said passage of the outsole (220a) and extending between the outsole (220a) and the insole (250a) and in electrical communication between the ground surface and the foot of the user; wherein upon the body of the user having developed static charge therein, said static charge is at least partially discharged from charge flowing from the foot of the user to the discharge element (242a), and from the discharge element (242a) to the ground surface.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a footwear article, in particular the present invention relates to a footwear article for providing for discharge of statistic electricity which is generated and accumulated within the body of a user of such footwear, and particularly for providing for discharge of statistic electricity which is generated and accumulated within the body of a user of such footwear during ambulation including walking and running of the user.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The background of the present invention is directed to the problem of generation and accumulation of static electricity in the body of a person, which is typically considered to be caused by motion of the person. Such accumulation of static electricity can pose occupational hazards, as well as adversely influencing the health of the user.

[0003] As is known, most people have experienced an electric shock when touching an object such as a door handle, escalator rail, hand rail, or even another person, particularly more commonly on a dry winter day. Such a shock is the result of instantaneous electrical discharge of static electricity accumulated in a human body of the person.

[0004] A well-known effect of static electricity on a person, is that of the shock from a spark discharge. This typically occurs when a charged person touches or comes into contact a grounded or earthed object, or when the person comes into contact with another person who is at a different potential.

[0005] In the clothing and footwear currently used, and often insulating footwear, generation of a high electrostatic charge of the body of a person cannot be prevented. Thus, grounding of the person provides for discharge of static electricity from the body of a person.

[0006] The generation of static electricity within or to the body of a person, causes several detrimental effects, including inconvenience and discomfort, occupational hazards, and adverse health effects:

[0007] (i) Inconvenience and Discomfort

[0008] During grounding or discharge, the shock from a spark discharge to a person can cause distraction, be disconcerting, and can also generate some level of pain.

[0009] Although the phenomenon is well known, within the literature there are no well-defined ranges or consensus for what level of body voltage or charge will result in discharges that can be felt by a person.

[0010] It is considered, however, that few people will notice discharges at voltages lower than about 1000 V, most people will start to feel an unpleasant effect around 2000 V, and it is considered almost everyone will complain when exposed to discharges at voltages above 3000 V.

[0011] (ii) Occupational Hazards

[0012] Within workplaces and industrial sites, the accumulation and discharge of static electricity from a person poses several hazards.

[0013] In workplaces or sites having sensitive electronic equipment, such as in the computer and electronic device manufacturing and assembly environments, discharge of static electricity from a person or worker can cause damage to electronic equipment and components.

[0014] In other workplaces and environment in which sensitive electronic equipment is used, again static discharge from a person can cause damage or interference with equipment, and incorrect readings and control by equipment in some cases.

[0015] By way of example, at a hospital environment, important and sensitive monitoring and control equipment is used in wards and theatres. Discharge of static electricity generated and accumulated in doctors' or nurses' bodies can radiate electromagnetic waves or EMF, which may cause interference or even damage of various technical equipment, such as that for medical examinations and treatments in use, monitoring equipment or life support equipment. Whilst in order to seek to mitigate such exposure to risk, in some case electro-conductive flooring has been introduced hospitals, however although going some way to reduce the risk and of static discharge, this problem and exposure to risk is still present to an extent.

[0016] Other workplace environments for which static discharge has been cited as posing an occupational risk, include chemical manufacturing environments, environments having flammable or volatile liquids and gases, and environments having fine particulates suspended in the air, which can be flammable mixture and as such, these environments must have stringent safety standards.

[0017] (iii) Adverse Health Effects

[0018] In many cases, the effects of static electricity on the health of human beings has been considered detrimental, or at a minimum at least unwanted. In the age of the sick-building syndrome, it has been cited that it is almost unavoidable that some of the many unspecific effects on a person due to an imperfect indoor climate should be attributed to the phenomenon of static electricity.

[0019] Static charging to a person has sometimes been considered the cause of headaches, dry mucosa, itchy skin, and other similar such ailments.

[0020] (iv) Solutions to Static Electricity Accumulation

[0021] In order to address the occupational and potential health risks associated with accumulation and discharge of static electricity within and from the body of a person, within the art there exist footwear specialized footwear to seek to address the static accumulation and discharge problem.

[0022] Currently and particularly in the hospital and clinical environments, a clog-type footwear article is typically used which comprises an outsole sole and an upper which is open at the rear and are typically unitary formed by molding often of the polymeric SEBS (styrene-ethylene/butylene-styrene).

[0023] Advantageously, such footwear can be readily washed, however the polymeric material from which the footwear is formed is electrically insulating, and therefore does not provide for static discharge from a user's body. As such, often electrical discharge to ground from a user's body is through the first electrically conducting article with which the user comes into contact, which can damage to or interference with electro-medical instruments.

[0024] In order to overcome this problem, within the prior art, antistatic clogs have been proposed which include an electrically conductive insert which passes through the sole, to connect the surface of the sole or heel of a person with the surface of the ground so as to allow for discharge from the body of the person to ground.

[0025] An example of the prior art is that of EP-A-1 186 403, which discloses a method for forming a shoe which discharges static electricity by molding using two injection ducts one of which puts the antistatic mixture to form a central predominance part for ground contact on a foot support base to transmit the electrostatic energy, while the other injection duct puts the material to form the remaining insulating part to complete the shoe.

[0026] Another example and solution of the prior art is that of EP-A-1 203 539, which discloses an antistatic shoe sole comprising a hole and a plug in the hole, the plug comprising a conducting material for reducing static electricity build up in the shoe sole during use.

[0027] Other prior art antistatic footwear is often manufactured by embedding thin electrical conductors inside the sole, both in the foot tip region and in the heel region. These electrical conductors provide for a discharge to the ground of static electricity accumulated by a user.

[0028] Another solution of the prior art, for discharge of static electricity from the body of a person is that of U.S. Pat. No. 7,997,014, which discloses an antistatic footwear for a man, woman and child comprising an upper portion, an outer sole and an insole disposed between the outer sole and the upper portion. One or more electrical conductors positioned within the outer sole and contacting one or more electrically conductive regions of the insole provide an electrical contact between the foot of the user and the ground.

OBJECT OF THE INVENTION

[0029] It is an object of the present invention to provide a footwear article for providing for discharge of statistic electricity which is generated and accumulated within the body of a user overcomes or ameliorates at least some deficiencies as associated with the prior art.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0030] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a footwear article for providing for static discharge from the body of the user of the footwear article to a ground surface, said footwear article including an outsole having one or more apertures extending therethrough so as to provide a passage from an upper surface of the outsole to a ground surface; an upper, said upper extending from at least a portion of periphery of the outsole, and extending over at least a portion of the foot of a user, so as to affix the footwear to the foot of the user; an insole located above said outsole; and an electrically conductive discharge element located within said passage of the outsole and extending between the outsole and the insole and in electrical communication between the ground surface and the foot of a user; wherein upon the body of the user having developed static charge therein, said static charge is at least partially discharged from charge flowing from the foot of the user to the discharge element, and from the discharge element to the ground surface.

[0031] Preferably, the upper substantially encloses the foot of a user.

[0032] In a first embodiment, the upper and the outsole are integrally formed. The upper and the outsole may be formed from a polymeric material. The polymeric material is preferably an expandable polymeric material. The polymeric material may be ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA). The footwear article is preferably a molded footwear article.

[0033] In another embodiment, the outsole and the upper may non-unitary formed, and the outsole and the upper may be formed from different materials.

[0034] The discharge element may be in electrical communication with a lateral aspect of the foot of the user. The discharge element may include a contact portion for contact with the lateral aspect of the foot of a user.

[0035] The discharge element may be in electrical communication with at least a portion of the peripheral side of the foot of a user.

[0036] The discharge element may be in electrical communication with the upper side of the foot of a user.

[0037] In an embodiment, the upper may include a material lining extending about at least a portion of the interior surface of the upper, wherein said material lining includes electrically conductive elements and said material lining is in electrical communication with said discharge element, and wherein the material lining provides contact and electrical communication with the foot of the user. The material may include electrically conductive threads or yarn.

[0038] In a further embodiment, the discharge element may be in electrical communication with the underside of the foot of the user.

[0039] The discharge element includes a plug portion, wherein said plug portion is formed from a polymeric, rubberized or silicone material, and is engageable within said aperture of said outsole. The plug portion is preferably sealingly engageable with the outsole, so as to substantially prevent ingress of liquid through said aperture from below the outsole in use. The plug portion material includes a conductive material therein, so as to form an electrically conductive composite.

[0040] Preferably the conductive material is a carbon material, and more preferably the carbon material is provided in fiber or particulate form.

[0041] Preferably, the discharge element includes a contact portion, for contact with the foot of a user, and the contact portion of the discharge element may be unitary formed with the plug portion of the discharge element.

[0042] The footwear article is a footwear article selected from the group including a surgical slipper, a sports shoe, a running shoe or a dress shoe.

[0043] The insole of the footwear article may be removeable and interchangeable.

[0044] In a second aspect, the present invention provides an electrically conductive discharge element for providing for static discharge from the body of the user of a footwear article to a ground surface; [0045] wherein said electrically conductive discharge element is locatable within a passage of the outsole of a footwear article which extends between the outsole and an insole of said footwear article; [0046] wherein said electrically conductive discharge element provides electrical communication between the ground surface and the foot of a user wearing said footwear article; and [0047] wherein upon the body of the user having developed static charge therein, said static charge is at least partially discharged from charge flowing from the foot of the user to the discharge element, and from the discharge element to the ground surface.

[0048] The discharge element preferably includes a plug portion, wherein said plug portion is formed from a polymeric, rubberized or silicone material, and is engageable within said aperture of said outsole.

[0049] Preferably, the plug portion is sealingly engageable with the outsole of a footwear article, so as to substantially prevent ingress of liquid through said aperture from below the outsole in use.

[0050] The plug portion material may include a conductive material therein, so as to form an electrically conductive composite, and the conductive material may be a carbon material. The carbon material may be provided in fiber or particulate form,

[0051] The discharge element may include a contact portion, for contact with the foot of a user.

[0052] The contact portion of the discharge element may be is unitary formed with the plug portion of the discharge element.

[0053] The discharge element and the plug portion may be formed from a polymeric, rubberized or silicone material.

[0054] The conductive material may be a carbon material, and the carbon material may be provided in fiber or particulate form.

[0055] The electrically conductive discharge element is locatable within a passage of the outsole of a footwear article which extends between the outsole and an insole of said footwear article, wherein the footwear article may be selected from the group including a surgical slipper, a sports shoe, a running shoe or a dress shoe.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0056] In order that a more precise understanding of the above-recited invention can be obtained, a more particular description of the invention briefly described above will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof that are illustrated in the appended drawings.

[0057] FIG. 1a depicts a schematic representation of a transverse cross-sectional view through an embodiment of a footwear article of the Prior Art;

[0058] FIG. 1b depicts a schematic representation of a transverse cross-sectional view through a further embodiment of a footwear article of the Prior Art;

[0059] FIG. 2a depicts a schematic representation of a transverse cross-sectional view through an embodiment of a footwear article of the present invention;

[0060] FIG. 2b depicts a schematic representation of a transverse cross-sectional view through a further embodiment of a footwear article of the present invention;

[0061] FIG. 3a shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a footwear article according to the present invention;

[0062] FIG. 3b shows a side view of the embodiment of the footwear article of FIG. 3a;

[0063] FIG. 3c shows an underside view of the embodiment of the footwear article of FIGS. 3a and 3b;

[0064] FIG. 3d shows a transverse sectional view of the embodiment of the footwear article of FIGS. 3a to 3c through line A-A of FIG. 3c;

[0065] FIG. 3e shows a longitudinal sectional view of the embodiment of the footwear article of FIGS. 3a to 3c through line B-B of FIG. 3c;

[0066] FIG. 3f shows a perspective view of a discharge element to be used in the footwear article of FIGS. 3a to 3c;

[0067] FIG. 3g shows a perspective view of an insole to be used in the footwear article of FIGS. 3a to 3c and the discharge element of FIG. 3f;

[0068] FIG. 4 shows the footwear article of FIGS. 3a to 3c, the discharge element of FIG. 3f and the insole of FIG. 3g in an assembled state;

[0069] FIG. 5a shows a longitudinal sectional view of another embodiment of a footwear article according to the present invention;

[0070] FIG. 5b shows a longitudinal sectional view of a further embodiment of a footwear article according to the present invention;

[0071] FIG. 5c shows a longitudinal sectional view of yet another embodiment of a footwear article according to the present invention;

[0072] FIG. 5d shows a longitudinal sectional view of yet a further embodiment of a footwear article according to the present invention; and

[0073] FIG. 5e shows a longitudinal sectional view of still yet another embodiment of a footwear article according to the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTIONS OF THE DRAWINGS

[0074] The present inventor has identified shortcomings of the footwear of the prior art footwear for the discharge of static electricity or charge from the body of a user of the footwear, and has provided a solution and footwear article that overcomes the deficiencies as identified by the present inventor, and provides a superior footwear article with advantages that cannot be provided by the prior art.

[0075] (i) Prior Art

[0076] Referring firstly to FIG. 1a, there is depicted a schematic representation of a transverse cross-sectional view through a footwear article 100a of the Prior Art, such as that as provided by EP-A-1 203 539.

[0077] As is shown, the footwear article 100a includes an outsole 120a and an upper 121a, which, as depicted, are unitary formed such as is provided in a clog-type footwear article as used in a hospital environment, for example. However, as will be understood, the prior art need not be a unitary formed product, and is represented as such only for illustrative purposes.

[0078] The outsole 120a has an outer surface 122a for engagement with a ground surface 130a, and inner surface 124a for engagement with the underside of the foot 110a of a user.

[0079] As is shown, an electrically conductive plug element 140a extends through an aperture 122a in the outsole 120a, and the underside of the foot 110a of the user engages with the plug element 140a, whilst the opposed end of the plug element 140a is engageable with and contacts the ground surface 130a.

[0080] As will be understood, accumulated static charge of the body of the user may be discharged as represented schematically by arrows 150a through the plug element 140a to ground as the plug element 140a provides a discharge pathway to ground by virtue of contacting ground surface 130a, so as to reduce static charge accumulation within the body of the user.

[0081] As is shown, electrical discharge as represented schematically by arrows 150a, exits the underside 115a of the foot 110a of the user, which as shown is in direct contact with the electrically conductive plug element 140a, which is in direct contact with the ground surface 130a.

[0082] As is known, a sock may be placed on the foot 110a of the user, and discharge of static from the body of the user will still be effected via the underside 115a of the foot 110a of the user, by contact of the underside 115a of the foot 110a of the user, who may for example be wearing a sock with the plug element 140a. However, in such an arrangement, the underside of the foot 110a of the user is required to contact the plug element 140a which extends through the outsole 120a. Such contact with the underside 115a of the foot 110a may be direct contact, or indirect contact for example if the user was wearing socks.

[0083] Referring to FIG. 1b, there is depicted a schematic representation of a transverse cross-sectional view through a further embodiment of a footwear article 100b of the Prior Art, with features such as is described by U.S. Pat. No. 7,997,014.

[0084] The footwear article 100b has an outsole 120b and an insole 150b having electrically conductive portions, intended to overlap the upper side surface 124b of the outsole 120b inside the footwear article 100b and interposed between the outsole 120b and the foot 110b of a user. The underside 115b of the foot 110b of the user is in contact with upper surface of the insole 150b.

[0085] In such prior art, static electricity discharge from the body of a user is achieved, by providing electrical communication between the underside of the user's foot 110b with the ground surface 130b. This is provided by the provision of a grounding post or plug 140b which is in electrical communication with the electrically conductive insole 150b whereby the grounding post or plug 140b passes through an aperture of the outsole 120b and is engageable with the ground surface 130b.

[0086] Electrical charge 160b from the user's body to the ground surface is achieved, when the underside 122b of the footwear article 100b engages with the ground surface 130b such that the discharge post of plug 140b engages with the ground surface 130b.

[0087] Electrical charge 160b from the body of a user pass to the electrically conductive insole 150b from the underside of the foot 110b of a user, through the discharge post of plug 140b and to the ground surface 130b as represented by arrows 160b.

[0088] Electrical discharge 160b from the body of a user to ground, in accordance with the above mentioned exemplary and other Prior Art, is achieved by discharge of static from the body of a person, via the underside of the foot of the person, and to ground via the conductive plug 140b which is abutted with the underside 115b of the foot 110b of the use as in FIG. 1a or via the indisposed electrically conductive insole 150b to the ground post or plug 140b, whereby the underside 115b of the foot 110b of the user is abutted with the electrically conductive insole 150b.

[0089] As has been identified by the present inventor, such prior art suffers from deficiencies, which the present invention as proposed by the present inventor overcomes.

[0090] (ii) Present Invention

[0091] Referring now to FIG. 2a, there is shown a schematic representation of an embodiment of a footwear article 200a according to the present invention. The footwear article 200a includes an outsole 220a engageable with a ground surface 230a and include upper 222a engaged with the outsole 220a. As will be appreciated, in other or alternate embodiments, the outsole 220a and upper 222a could be integrally formed.

[0092] The footwear article 200a further includes an electrically conductive discharge element 242a, which extends through an aperture in the outsole and is engageable with the ground surface 230a during ambulation.

[0093] The footwear article 200a further includes an insole 250a which is disposed above the discharge element 242a and is engaged with the upper surface 224a of the outsole. This may be indirect engagement, if further materials or layers are disposed therebetween.

[0094] The discharge element 242a extends laterally between the outsole 220a and the insole 250a in the present embodiment, and a contact portion 244a contacts a lateral aspect of the foot 210a of a user.

[0095] As is shown, static charge 260a accumulated in the body of a user is discharged to ground by charge passing from the foot 210a of the user to the discharge element 242a at contact point 244a, which flows under the insole 250a and between the insole 250a and the outsole 220a, and to be discharged upon the discharge element engaging with the ground surface 230a.

[0096] In the present embodiment, the discharge element 242a is unitary formed and is formed from a polymeric or rubberized material or compound. The discharge element is electrically conductive by way of inclusion of carbon therein, such as fibers or particulates.

[0097] In other embodiments, the inside surface of the upper 222a may include material lining, which may include conductive elements or portions, such as conductive threads or yarn, which is provided in electrical communication with the discharge element, such that when a portion of the foot 210a of a user is in contact with the inside surface, either bare-footed or with a sock on the foot, electrical communication is provided from the body of the person, to the discharge element 242a, and to ground via ground surface 230a, so as to provide for discharge of static charge from the user.

[0098] Referring now to FIG. 2b, there is shown a schematic representation of a further embodiment of a footwear article 200b according to the present invention. The footwear article includes an outsole 220b engageable with a ground surface 230b and an upper 222b engaged with the outsole 220b. As will be appreciated, in other or alternate embodiments, the outsole 220b and upper 222b could be integrally formed.

[0099] The footwear article 200b further includes an electrically conductive discharge element 242b, which extends through an aperture in the outsole and is engageable with the ground surface 230b during ambulation.

[0100] The footwear article further includes an insole 250b which is disposed above the discharge element and is engaged with the upper surface 224b of the outsole. This may be indirect engagement, if further materials or layers are disposed therebetween.

[0101] The discharge element 242b extends laterally between the outsole 220b and the insole 250b in the present embodiment, around the insole 250b and back over the insole 250b and a contact portion 244b contacts the underside the foot 210a of a user.

[0102] As is shown, static charge 260b accumulated in the body of a user is discharged to ground by charge passing from the foot 210b of the user to the discharge element 242b at contact point 244b, which flows between the foot 210b and the insole 250b around the edge of the insole under the insole 250b and between the insole 250b and the outsole 220b, and to be discharged upon the discharge element engaging with the ground surface 230b.

[0103] In the present embodiment, the discharge element 242b is unitary formed and is formed from a polymeric or rubberized material or compound. The discharge element is electrically conductive by way of inclusion of carbon therein, such as fibers or particulates.

[0104] The present inventor has identified shortcomings of the prior art, such as the Prior Art footwear articles as shown and described with reference to FIGS. 1a and 1b, and has provided a solution which overcomes the deficiencies and failings of the prior art.

[0105] Referring specifically to the Prior Art of FIG. 1a, such items are typical of those used in clinical settings, and are typically hard and uncomfortable due to there being no insole.

[0106] Now referring specifically to the Prior Art of FIG. 1b, such an article, although including an insole of sorts, it is a specialized insole which requires electrical conductivity of the insole and electrical communication with the discharge post, and as such specialized insoles which are not readily replaceable or configurable.

[0107] By contrast, the present invention, as will be seen from FIGS. 2a and 2b, provides footwear article which includes an insole, however the insole is not utilised at all in the static charge discharge pathway.

[0108] Advantageously, the present invention provides a footwear article for which various orthotic inserts, built-up insoles, customized insoles for support, therapy, rehabilitation and the like, can be readily inserted ant utilised, in stark contrast with the prior art.

[0109] As such, the present invention provides a versatile, adaptable and universal static-discharge type footwear article, which can be used for extended periods of time due to the ability for appropriate insoles to be used in conjunction with such footwear.

[0110] The provision of a discharge pathway as provided by the discharge element of the present invention, which provides a static charge discharge pathway which extends between the insole and the outsole, allows for ease of removal of the insole and ease of insertion of a requisite or desired insole.

[0111] Such a footwear article as provided by the present invention, affords to a user a footwear article with static discharge capabilities and capacity, which can be worn for extended period of time due to the permissibility of insertion of appropriate insoles and orthotics, without compromising the static discharge capabilities of the footwear article.

[0112] Referring now to FIGS. 3a to 3g, there is shown a preferred embodiment of footwear article 300 according to the present invention for the discharge of static electricity or charge from the body of a user of the footwear article 300.

[0113] As is shown in FIGS. 3a and 3b, there is shown a perspective view and a side view of the footwear article 300. Such a footwear article 300 includes an outsole 320 and an upper 332, which is unitary formed, or alternatively in other embodiments, they can simply be engaged with each other.

[0114] Referring to FIG. 3d which depicts the transverse sectional view of the footwear article 300 through line A-A of FIG. 3c, there is shown an upper 322 unitary formed with an outsole 320 of the foot article 300, wherein the outsole 320 has an aperture 330 extending therethrough from the upper surface of the outsole 320 to the ground surface.

[0115] Such aperture 330 of the outsole 320 provides a passage from the upper surface of the outsole 320 to the ground surface towards the rear portion of the footwear article 300 as shown in FIG. 3e, which depicts the transverse sectional view of the footwear article 300 through line B-B of FIG. 3c.

[0116] Said aperture 330 of the outsole 320 allows an electrically conductive discharge element 340 located therein such that the discharge element 340 is in good electrical communication between the ground surface and the foot of a user.

[0117] Referring now to FIG. 3f, there is shown an electrically conductive discharge element 340 which is formed separately in its own right.

[0118] As is shown, the electrically conductive discharge element 340 includes a plug portion 342 which is inserted within the passage created by the aperture 330 of the outsole 320; and a contact portion 344 formed with a plug portion 342 so as to contact with the lateral side of the foot of a user in this embodiment, similarly as described in FIG. 2a.

[0119] In other embodiments, the contact portion 344 is in contact with the underside of the foot of a user as described in FIG. 2b.

[0120] As such, static charge accumulated in the body of a user may be discharged from the foot at the contact portion 344 to the plug portion 342 of the discharge element 340, and finally to the ground upon the discharge element 340 engaging with the ground surface.

[0121] Such discharge element 340 can be formed from a polymeric, rubberized or silicone material which may be sufficiently elastic and flexible so as to provide comfortability when in contact with the foot of a user, and without creating any unpleasant feeling during use by a user.

[0122] The plug portion is sealingly engageable with the outsole of a footwear article, so as to substantially prevent ingress of liquid through said aperture from below the outsole in use.

[0123] Withing the present embodiment, the discharge element 340 is depicted as being unitary formed, comprising the plug portion 342 and the contact portion 344, of the discharge element 340.

[0124] However and as will be understood by those skilled in the art, the discharge element 340 need not necessarily be unitary formed, and the plug portion 342 and the contact portion 344 may be separate components, and may be formed from same or different materials.

[0125] The discharge element 340 of the present invention, is applicable to numerous types of footwear articles, such as surgical slipper, a sports shoe, a running shoe or a dress shoe.

[0126] Also, as will be appreciated and readily understood by those skilled in the art, although the aperture extending through the outside is depicted as being circular and vertical, this need not necessarily be the case in alternate and other embodiment. For example, the aperture may be a convoluted passageway extending from the upper surface of the outsole and to the ground surface, so as to provide the requisite electrical pathway through the outsole, irrespective of the shape or pathway of the aperture.

[0127] Furthermore, as will be understood, there may be other layers between the outsole and insole of a footwear article, however and regardless, as long as the electrically conductive discharge element is located or locatable within the passage of the outsole and extends between the outsole and the insole and in electrical communication between the ground surface and the foot of a user, any such additional layers or materials disposed between the outsole and insole of a footwear article do not affect the function of the discharge element, as such that upon the body of the user having developed static charge therein, said static charge is at least partially discharged from charge flowing from the foot of the user to the discharge element, and from the discharge element to the ground surface.

[0128] When in use, an insole 350 as depicted in FIG. 3g is placed above the outsole 320 of the footwear 300. The design of such insole 350 is not restricted by any materials, forms or shapes, it is replaceable and can be tailor made for the users specifically for their needs, and may be an authentic device which may be provided by a healthcare professional.

[0129] Such anti-static footwear 300 of the present invention with a replaceable insole 350 is highly advantageous over the prior art of FIG. 1a, which typically have no insole, and which is usually hard, non-flexible and uncomfortable to wear.

[0130] A comfortable footwear article is especially important for people working in work place environments such as hospitals, clinics, high-technology laboratories and manufacturing factories where employees are required to have prolonged standing, and at the same time must wear anti-static footwear article due to safety measures.

[0131] If employees working in the above-mentioned working environments are to wear anti-static footwears or clogs of the prior art which are usually heavy, bulky and consist of hard and non-flexible insoles, their feet can easily get tired and uncomfortable which may even lead to muscle fatigue of the foot of the user, as well as may cause other physiological effects such as back pain.

[0132] The footwear article 300 of the present invention is advantageous over that those of the prior art by allowing the insole 350 which has direct contact with the foot of the user to be replaceable and tailor made so as to fit the specific shape, size and any other special needs of the user.

[0133] For example, people with flat feet or fallen arches have difficulty working at a job which requires a lot of standing since they do not have arches for support during standing. In some cases, such workers may suffer excruciating pain when wearing anti-static footwear articles of the prior art prolongedly that are hard, heavy and unsupportive, and which could easily lead to the high stress accumulating at the feet of the users.

[0134] By contrast, the footwear article 300 of the present invention allows users to apply a unique and bespoke insole 350 therein, or alternately a standard and supportive insole. People with flat feet can then choose a more comfortable insole 350 which is flexible and elastic to absorb shock, and also with supportive arches in order to provide support to the feet, for example.

[0135] Furthermore, the appearance of the anti-static footwear or clog of the prior art is usually socially unacceptable and awkward. Employees working in said working environments are required to change back to normal footwears before taking a break or leaving their work places temporarily, which creates inconvenience to the users.

[0136] The footwear article 300 of the present invention, however, allows its appearance to be stylish. There are no restrictions on the design, shape and appearance to the footwear article 300 of the present invention, and users can wear the footwear article 300 of the present invention at any circumstances without embarrassments.

[0137] Referring now to FIG. 4, there is shown a transverse sectional view of a preferred embodiment of footwear article 400 according to the present invention, with an upper 422, an outsole 420, an insole 450 and an electrically conductive discharged element 442 assembled together.

[0138] As is shown, FIG. 4 is similar to FIG. 3e which also shows the transverse sectional view of the footwear 400, but with an insole 450 placed above an outsole 420, and a discharged element 442 located within the aperture 430 of the outsole 420 of the foot article 400.

[0139] The contact portion 444 of the discharged element 442 is in contact with the foot of a user during use and thus provides electrical communication between the ground surface and the foot of a user.

[0140] As such, upon the body of the user having developed static charge therein, static charge is at least partially discharge from charge flow from the foot of the user to the discharge element, and from the discharge element to the ground surface.

[0141] The embodiments of the present invention, as shown in FIGS. 3a to 3f and FIG. 4, are provided as a unitary construct, and can advantageously be formed from a molding process, whereby the footwear article may be formed from a suitable polymeric material or polymeric material blend. Suitable such materials include ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), and whereby the footwear article may be formed from an expanded molding process.

[0142] (iii) Discharge Element of Present Invention

[0143] The discharge element may be formed from a polymeric material or a rubberized material, or material blend in some embodiments, whereby the material has been modified so as to be suitably electrically conductive, so as to allow for the conduction of static charge from the body of the use, for example by the inclusion of conductive material being incorporated into the polymeric or rubberized material, so as to form an electrically conductive composite.

[0144] Such conductive material may include carbon such as carbon, carbon fibers, or electrically conductive filaments or fibers. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, sufficient conductivity is required, so as to allow discharge of the static charge accumulated in the body of a user.

[0145] The discharge element in the above exemplary embodiments is described as being formed of a rubberized material and being of a unitary construct, however in other and alternate embodiments, the discharge element may be formed so as to include portions or parts from electrically conductive metallic materials, again so as to provide an electrical pathway to ground.

[0146] Referring to FIG. 5a, the discharge element need not necessarily be of a unitary structure or plug type device in other and alternate embodiments, and further there may be a plurality of individual discharge elements 542a of the footwear 500a which may in some embodiments be in electrical communication with each other by linkage portions 545a between the outsole 520a and the insole 550a such as is shown in another embodiment as shown in FIG. 5a, and may have more than one contact portion 544a for providing contact with the foot of a user, and for providing discharge of electrical charge 560a in accordance with the present invention.

[0147] Alternatively, as shown in further embodiment FIG. 5b, the footwear article 500b may be multiple discharge elements 542b, which may be electrically isolated from each other, and thus have separate contact portions 544b, each of which are in electrical communication with their respective discharge element 542b with electrical communication again being provided and extending between the outsole 520b and the insole 550b for providing discharge of electrical charge 560b in accordance with the present invention.

[0148] In yet another embodiment of a footwear article 500c of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 5c, two discharge elements 542c, by way of example although in other embodiments there may be one, three or more discharge elements, are electrically interconnected by linkage portions 545c, between the outsole 520c and the insole 550c, and the contact portion 544c, which is in electrical communication with the discharge elements 542c, is disposed at the heel portion of the footwear article 500c and is positioned for contact with the heel of a user.

[0149] In yet a further embodiment of a footwear article 500d of the present invention, electrical contact with the foot of a user is made by way of a conductive material lining 560d disposed within the inner surface of the upper 522d of the footwear article 500d, which is in electrical communication with the discharge element or elements 542d extending through the outsole 520d, which are interconnected by linkage portions 545d, and which is configured to abut and engage with the foot of a user so as to provide an electrical pathway to ground for discharge of static from the body of a user.

[0150] In embodiments of the present invention, the entire inside of the upper may be formed from a sufficiently electrically conductive material, which when in electrical communication with the discharge element, provides for discharge of static electricity from the body of a user.

[0151] Alternatively, the upper may include formed therein and integrally formed, sufficiently electrically conductive material which, when in communication with the discharge element, provides for discharge from the body of the user.

[0152] Those skilled in the art will appreciate and understand, that no structural, material physical limitations apply to the implementation in respect of the manner in which engagement of the upper of a footwear article with the foot of a user is provided.

[0153] In still yet another embodiment, a footwear article 500e is shown, again for exemplary purposes, having disposed in its outsole 520e a plurality of discharge elements 542e extending therethrough. The discharge elements 542e are electrically interconnected with each other by linkage portions 545e and in electrical communication with contact portion 544e which configured to as to be folded or moved over the insole so as to provide electrical communication with the underside of the foot of a user for discharge of static charge from the body of the user. As will be understood, in the present embodiment, the insole 550e does not form part of the electrical pathway for discharge, and can be removed and replaced and is interchangeable in accordance with the present invention.

[0154] As will be understood, the contact portion 544e may take numerous forms, for example being provided as a rubberized or polymeric or silicone conductive material, or even a conductive fabric material, which may be overlaid on the insole.

[0155] Again and as will be noted and understood, the discharge element may be formed from any suitably electrically conductive material, and may be formed as a unitary structure, for both single and multiple discharge embodiments, for example by way of a molding process using a rubberized or polymeric type sufficiently electrically conductive material, and may also include a contact portion for engagement with the foot of a user.

[0156] Alternatively, the discharge element or elements may be separately formed, and may be connected with the contact portion, or an electrically conductive lining such as in the embodiment of FIG. 5d with separate connecting portion.

[0157] Regardless and in any event, such a discharge element arrangement in accordance with the present invention, by not using the insole as part of the discharge pathway, provides for a comfortable and more versatile footwear article than those as provided by the prior art.

[0158] (iv) Implementation of Present Invention

[0159] The present invention, as made by the present inventor, provides for a footwear article which allows for the implementation of an insole, which maybe interchangeable or replaceable which advantageously provides for comfort to a user, which does not require the insole to be electrically conductive.

[0160] The discharge element or portion thereof, which is in electrical communication with the ground surface upon which a user may stand or walk upon during use, provides for passage or flow of static charge from the foot of the user to the ground surface.

[0161] This feature advantageously, not only providing a more comfortable footwear article than clog-type footwear as is typically used in the art, further allows for non-device dependent or specific insoles to be used, as the footwear article of the present invention both: [0162] (i) provides a footwear article suitable for static electricity-sensitive environments which has an insole, [0163] (ii) provides a footwear article with an insole, thus providing a more comfortable footwear for such occupational environments, and [0164] (iii) in addition, also provides a footwear article which allows for interchangeability of the insole to suit individual user requirements.

[0165] The provision of a footwear article having an interchangeable insole which provides for accumulated static discharge from the body of a user footwear, as is described, is achieved by use on an insole which is not necessarily required to form part of the electric charge discharge pathway between the foot of the user and the ground surface.

[0166] (v) Workplace Environment Applicability

[0167] The present invention, as discussed above, is applicable to footwear for use in static-sensitive workplace environments, such as within healthcare environments such as hospitals, as well as in electronics manufacturing and assembly environments.

[0168] In such applications, embodiments of the present invention, can provide a more aesthetically pleasing and also lighter footwear article that the clog type polymeric or plastics, thus making a superior footwear article from at least a wearability standpoint and user preferability perception, in addition to any enhanced therapeutic or comfort related issues.

[0169] (vi) Workplace Environment Therapeutic Advantages

[0170] As is understood, in an occupational environment such as in a clinical environment and a sensitive electronics environment, users are standing often for extended periods of time, and the prior art used in such applications, although in some cases having some degree of cushioning, cannot allow a user to insert their own specific insole.

[0171] In addition to increased comfort as provided by insoles and the prevention of injury of foot-associated ailments, many people require specific insoles for various for treatment and prevention of reoccurrence of disorder from a clinical standpoint.

[0172] Persons with what is termed fallen arches, flat-feet or disorders such as plantar fasciitis, require insoles or orthotics, which may be purchased to assist in providing comfort, prevention or treatment of such disorders, or which often are required to be manufactured in a bespoke basis for persons.

[0173] Regardless of whether an insole is of a standard supportive type, or is bespoke and case-specific for a patient, within the workplace due to extended periods of wearing footwear articles, in particular the clog-type of anti-static footwear typically utilised in clinical environments and electronics assembly environments, prevention of foot injury or treatment or maintenance of injury or pre-existing conditions, is of paramount importance from an occupational health & safety (OH&S) standpoint.

[0174] (vii) Applicability to Other Types of Footwear Articles

[0175] Although embodiments of the present invention are described above with reference footwear applicable for clinical environments or electronic assembly environments, the present invention is equally applicable and implementable in other or alternate types of footwear.

[0176] For example, the present invention is applicable to other types of footwear, including sports footwear type articles, fashion type footwear and the like.

[0177] Similarly to the previously above discussed footwear articles, the outsole is generally considered to be electrically insulative, and similarly to environmental conditions and physical activities, the body of a person may accumulate static charge which when discharge, for example upon a user touching a sufficiently grounded article or contacting the body of another person, discharge may occur resulting in surprise, shock, discomfort and distraction, which in some cases may cause subsequent physical harm to a use, another person or property, as a consequence of such unexpected static discharge.

[0178] As such, the implementation of a discharge element according to the present invention in joggers, running shoes, specific sports shoes for particular activities, assists a user in the progressive discharge of static charge of the user's body, and alleviate or at least substantially ameliorate the abovementioned detrimental and undesirable consequences of accumulation in and subsequent discharge of static charge from the body of the user.

[0179] Advantageously, the implementation of the present invention in such footwear, which as will be inherently understand have a generally electrically insulative outsole and hence the presence of accumulated static charge in the non-grounded body of a user, similarly as described in reference to the above embodiments, provides for progressive discharge from the body of the person.

[0180] Further, as (i) an insole may be used in footwear embodying the present invention and (ii) as the insole in accordance with the implementation of the present invention is not required to form part of the discharge pathway, again full flexibility and autonomy is provide in relation to the selection and deployment of insoles, including orthotics and other therapeutic type inserts, including partial insole inserts, as well as sports applicable insoles and inserts for the absorbance of shock during impact and repetitive usage, whilst still providing for static discharge in accordance with the present invention.

[0181] Unexpected static electricity discharge from the body of a person to ground, as discussed above and the potential consequences thereof, as well as embarrassment and awkwardness, is of concern not only in the clinical and electrical componentry assembly environments, but in many other work environments or social environments or day-to-day environments. In many other environments, persons may utilise and wear different types of shoes and footwear, and such articles embodying the invention provide for an article which has appropriate comfort and foot support, whilst providing for discharge of accumulated static electricity within the body of the user.

[0182] (viii) Health, Safety and Well-being

[0183] The feeling of an electric shock, due to static electricity, can provide the uncomfortable feeling of an `electric shock`. Typical activities, such as closing car doors and pushing a supermarket trolley about a supermarket, or shutting a door result in voltages of more than 10,000 volts being felt by persons. However, it is reported that as the current flow is for such a short time, such a shock rarely has a physical effect.

[0184] In a factory workplace environment, a machinery operator can receive a static shock directly from a product they are working with or upon, and also may possibly become charged through induction whilst they are standing in the electric field of a charged object in some industrial settings. The static charge builds up on the operator until the operator touches an earthed or grounded part of a machine, and then discharge occurs, which results in a shock being felt. Again, although this is unlikely to lead to any serious harm to the operator, in the shock is strong enough to cause a recoil reaction by the operator, or at a critical juncture of for example machinery manipulation, occupational accidents may occur as the operator may collide with a colleague, or stumbles into the path of other machinery, cause an incorrect control action to be effected resulting in injury to the operator, a colleague, or the public, depending upon the situation.

[0185] Accordingly reducing the likelihood ad risk of static shock as is provided by the present invention, is important to avoid workplace injury, and also to demonstrate due care and attention to staff welfare and safety.

[0186] Production and workplace efficiency can be further adversely in the event that such static shocks are frequently occurring, as people will intuitively work at a slower and more hesitant pace if they perceive themselves to be at risk of a shock.

[0187] In the event that the incidence of static shock is reduced, people in general will be less preoccupied and anticipative of receiving a static, in all aspects of life, not just the workplace. As such, without exposure to the continued anticipated threat of receiving static shock, peoples' general anxiety level shall be reduced, thus offering a more peaceful and balanced environment.

[0188] The present invention, as provided by the present inventor, has addressed significant deficiencies in the prior art, by providing footwear which at least: [0189] (i) discharges static accumulated on the body of a user, [0190] (ii) both provides for comfort by provision of an insole, and [0191] (iii) provides for versatility and interchangeability of insoles by a user.

Claims

1. A footwear article for providing for static discharge from the body of the user of the footwear article to a ground surface, said footwear article including: an outsole having one or more apertures extending therethrough so as to provide a passage from an upper surface of the outsole to a ground surface; an upper, said upper extending from at least a portion of periphery of the outsole, and extending over at least a portion of the foot of a user, so as to affix the footwear to the foot of the user; an insole located above said outsole; and an electrically conductive discharge element located within said passage of the outsole and extending between the outsole and the insole and in electrical communication between the ground surface and the foot of a user; wherein upon the body of the user having developed static charge therein, said static charge is at least partially discharged from charge flowing from the foot of the user to the discharge element, and from the discharge element to the ground surface.

2. A footwear article according to claim 1, wherein said upper substantially encloses the foot of a user.

3. A footwear article according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the upper and the outsole are integrally formed.

4. A footwear article according to claim 3, wherein the upper and the outsole are formed from a polymeric material.

5. A footwear article according to claim 4, wherein the polymeric material is an expandable polymeric material.

6. A footwear article according to claim 4 of claim 5, wherein said polymeric material is ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA).

7. A footwear article according to any one of claims 3 to 6, wherein the footwear article is a molded footwear article.

8. A footwear article according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the outsole and the upper are non-unitary formed.

9. A footwear article according to claim 8, wherein the outsole and the upper are formed from different materials.

10. A footwear article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the discharge element is in electrical communication with a lateral aspect of the foot of the user.

11. A footwear article according to claim 10, wherein the discharge element includes a contact portion for contact with the lateral aspect of the foot of a user.

12. A footwear article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the discharge element is in electrical communication with at least a portion of the peripheral side of the foot of a user.

13. A footwear article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the discharge element is in electrical communication with the upper side of the foot of a user.

14. A footwear article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the upper includes include material lining extending about at least a portion of the interior surface of the upper, wherein said material lining includes electrically conductive elements and said material lining is in electrical communication with said discharge element, and wherein the material lining provides contact and electrical communication with the foot of the user.

15. A footwear article according to claim 14, wherein said material includes electrically conductive threads or yarn.

16. A footwear article according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the discharge element is in electrical communication with the underside of the foot of the user.

17. A footwear article according to anyone of the preceding claims, wherein the discharge element includes a plug portion, wherein said plug portion is formed from a polymeric, rubberized or silicone material, and is engageable within said aperture of said outsole.

18. A footwear article according to claim 17, wherein said plug portion is sealingly engageable with the outsole, so as to substantially prevent ingress of liquid through said aperture from below the outsole in use.

19. A footwear article according to claim 17 or claim 18, wherein said plug portion material includes a conductive material therein, so as to form an electrically conductive composite.

20. A footwear article according to claim 19, wherein said conductive material is a carbon material.

21. A footwear article according to claim 20, wherein carbon material is provided in fiber or particulate form.

22. A footwear article according to any one of claims 17 to 21, wherein the discharge element includes a contact portion, for contact with the foot of a user.

23. A footwear article according to claim 22, wherein the contact portion of the discharge element is unitary formed with the plug portion of the discharge element.

24. A footwear article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the footwear article is a footwear article selected from the group including a surgical slipper, a sports shoe, a running shoe or a dress shoe.

25. A footwear article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the insole of the footwear article is removeable and interchangeable.

26. An electrically conductive discharge element for providing for static discharge from the body of the user of a footwear article to a ground surface; wherein said electrically conductive discharge element is locatable within a passage of the outsole of a footwear article which extends between the outsole and an insole of said footwear article; wherein said electrically conductive discharge element provides electrical communication between the ground surface and the foot of a user wearing said footwear article; and wherein upon the body of the user having developed static charge therein, said static charge is at least partially discharged from charge flowing from the foot of the user to the discharge element, and from the discharge element to the ground surface.

27. An electrically conductive discharge element according to claim 26, wherein the discharge element includes a plug portion, wherein said plug portion is formed from a polymeric, rubberized or silicone material, and is engageable within said aperture of said outsole.

28. An electrically conductive discharge element according to claim 27, wherein said plug portion is sealingly engageable with the outsole of a footwear article, so as to substantially prevent ingress of liquid through said aperture from below the outsole in use.

29. An electrically conductive discharge element according to claim 27 or claim 28, wherein said plug portion material includes a conductive material therein, so as to form an electrically conductive composite.

30. An electrically conductive discharge element according to claim 29, wherein said conductive material is a carbon material.

31. An electrically conductive discharge element according to claim 30, wherein carbon material is provided in fiber or particulate form,

32. An electrically conductive discharge element according to any one of claims 27 to 31, wherein the discharge element includes a contact portion, for contact with the foot of a user.

33. An electrically conductive discharge element according to claim 32, wherein the contact portion of the discharge element is unitary formed with the plug portion of the discharge element.

34. An electrically conductive discharge element according to claim 33, wherein the discharge element and the plug portion are formed from a polymeric, rubberized or silicone material.

35. An electrically conductive discharge element according to claim 35, wherein said conductive material is a carbon material.

36. An electrically conductive discharge element according to claim 35, wherein carbon material is provided in fiber or particulate form.

37. An electrically conductive discharge element according to any one of claims 26 to 36, wherein the electrically conductive discharge element is locatable within a passage of the outsole of a footwear article which extends between the outsole and an insole of said footwear article, wherein the footwear article is selected from the group including a surgical slipper, a sports shoe, a running shoe or a dress shoe.

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