U.S. patent application number 17/423155 was filed with the patent office on 2022-04-28 for footwear article.
The applicant listed for this patent is David FU. Invention is credited to David FU.
Application Number | 20220125156 17/423155 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | |
Filed Date | 2022-04-28 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20220125156 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
FU; David |
April 28, 2022 |
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.
Inventors: |
FU; David; (Hong Kong,
CN) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
FU; David |
Hong Kong |
|
CN |
|
|
Appl. No.: |
17/423155 |
Filed: |
January 23, 2020 |
PCT Filed: |
January 23, 2020 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/CN2020/074005 |
371 Date: |
July 15, 2021 |
International
Class: |
A43B 7/36 20060101
A43B007/36 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Jan 25, 2019 |
HK |
19101382.3 |
Jan 28, 2019 |
HK |
19101468.0 |
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.
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.
* * * * *